SwRI: Fuel Systems and Contamination Research Accelerated Life Testing (Key-Life Testing)

  image of a contamination sensitivity evaluation
 

In this contamination sensitivity evaluation, staff members introduce controlled amounts of contaminant into the fuel delivery subsystem assemblies as they undergo severe laboratory testing.
 

image of results of a contamination sensitivity evaluation where controlled amounts of contaminant were introduced into the fuel delivery subsystem assemblies as they undergo severe laboratory testing
 

Results of severe laboratory testing

Fuel system and contamination research engineers at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) work closely with industry to develop accelerated-life testing methods to determine the expected life of components and systems, particularly those subject to premature failure. In establishing accelerated-life testing programs, engineers may:

  • Use pre- and post-test boundary analyses to identify and evaluate critical parameters

  • Apply classical or modern accelerated-life assessment methodologies

  • Interrogate machine performance by introducing controlled contaminants

  • Evaluate component and systems design and construction to determine vulnerability

SwRI engineers have developed a series of fuel-system simulations representing 36,000 to 150,000 miles of vehicle operation.

 

For more information about fuel systems and contamination research and accelerated life testing (key-life testing) capabilities at SwRI or how you can contract with SwRI, please contact Xiaojian Tao, Ph.D., at xtao@swri.org or (210) 522-6962.

©1998-2009 Copyright Southwest Research Institute
Printed from:
http://www.swri.org/4org/d03/vehsys/contres/accelife.htm?
Southwest Research Institute® (SwRI®) is an independent, nonprofit, applied engineering and physical sciences research and development organization with 12 technical divisions using multidisciplinary approaches to problem solving. The Institute occupies more than 1,200 acres and provides nearly two million square feet of laboratories, test facilities, workshops, and offices for more than 3,300 employees who perform contract work for industry and government clients.