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	SwRI staff monitor and inspect all pertinent operating parameters during the development process to ensure optimal engine operating efficiency, performance, and emissions.

Engine performance mapping and development is researched and evaluated by Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) small-engine technology engineers. Tests to evaluate engine performance, emissions, and fuel economy are regularly conducted at SwRI.

Engine Performance Mapping and Development Services

Using a wide range of sophisticated engine measurement techniques and development tools, engineers provide a variety of services, including:

• Camshaft development

• Intake system design and tuning

• Exhaust system optimization

• Electronic fuel system development and testing

• Cylinder head flow measurement and analysis

• Motoring friction analysis

• Turbocharger and supercharger applications

• Performance stage packages

• Piston development

• Combustion chamber optimization

• Variable valve timing

• Engine internal friction measurement and reduction

• Engine and drivetrain inertia optimization

• Engine efficiency improvement

• Emissions measurement and reduction

• Engine calibration optimization

	SwRI engineers assess the performance of various fuel formulations using an instrumented, high-speed motorcycle engine.

Alternative-Fueled Engines

SwRI has been involved in engine research, development, design, analysis, and prototype fabrication for almost 50 years. The Engine, Emissions & Vehicle Research Department is internationally known for its expertise in the development of alternative-fueled engines. The major emphasis to date has been on the use of natural gas as a heavy-duty engine fuel. Other major programs involve alternative fuels including propane, ethanol, methanol, hydrogen, and bio-diesel. SwRI engineers are currently working on many new technologies for cleaner engines for the year 2004 and beyond.

Motorcycles and Alternative Fuels

Motorcycles and scooters are proven

	During controlled chassis dynamometer testing, SwRI engineers evaluate engine performance and vehicle emissions.

personal commuter vehicles because their size and weight contribute to high fuel efficiency. However, these vehicles have recently received negative public awareness for their contributions to air pollution problems caused by vehicle emissions. Engines designed to operate on alternative fuels can be a breakthrough in the transportation technology revolution. SwRI has the experience necessary to develop an advanced, low-emission, high-performance motorcycle operating on a variety of alternative fuels for high-speed diesel applications.
 

For more information about engine performance mapping and development capabilities at SwRI or how you can contract with SwRI, please contact Jim Carroll at jcarroll@swri.org or (210) 522-5015.
 

| Emissions R&D | Engine, Emissions & Vehicle Research Division | SwRI Home |

Southwest Research Institute^® (SwRI^®), headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, is a multidisciplinary, independent, nonprofit, applied engineering and physical sciences research and development organization with 12 technical divisions.

October 29, 2009