System Integration & Control Systems Design


Modern 2 MW engine testing facility commissioned

May 2002 System Integration & Control Systems Design

Designs Unique of Johannesburg and NTB Technical Services of Cape Town recently commissioned a sophisticated and modern test centre at one of MTU's South African branches, in Isando. This test centre will be used for testing and certification of the diesel engines from the smaller off-highway motors from Daimler Chrysler and on-highway Detroit Diesel Corporation to the 12 V -1,52 MW (2040 hp) to 16 V-2,03 MW (2720 hp) engines typically used in mining and in heavy industrial equipment such as dump truck and opencast mining. The test centre incorporates a dynamometer for the testing of these engines.

The control console, with its view into the engine testing area at MTU SA in Isando
The control console, with its view into the engine testing area at MTU SA in Isando

NTB Technical Services developed the dynamometer monitoring software, and the hardware used was supplied by Designs Unique, which is the local agent for Intelligent Instrumentation - one of the world's leading suppliers of data acquisition and control PC-based solutions. Some 80 channels of analog inputs were used to monitor and record the various signals such as manifold temperatures, turbo boost pressures, cooling water temperatures, fuel pressures and flows, etc. This data is graphically displayed on screen during the test and a certification report is automatically generated and printed out at the end of the test. Various menus and parameters are stored in the software, for calling and referencing to a particular model, or size of engine to be tested. These parameters once selected set the system for the appropriate operating test conditions.

Subsequent to this installation, a second unit has been commissioned at MTU's Cape Town branch.

Bobby Holdcroft, Designs Unique

011 646 1171



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Containerised Electrical & Control System Powers Paste Plant in Botswana
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Delivering a complete, containerized solution for a mine’s paste plant in Botswana, this project stands as a model of modern EC&I execution — integrating electrical, control, and automation systems into ...

Read more...
Control system upgrade: Smelting
SAM Systems Automation & Management System Integration & Control Systems Design
Systems Automation & Management recently completed a major control system upgrade in the smelting industry. The project was delivered on budget and achieved a positive ROI for the client.

Read more...
Gottwald drives upgrade: Ports and harbours
Abacus Automation System Integration & Control Systems Design
In the ports and harbours sector, Abacus Automation completed a significant modernisation of a Gottwald crane, improving both operational reliability and serviceability.

Read more...
Mining industry upgrade: From ageing systems to maximum capacity
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Iritron recently undertook a major upgrade in the mining sector, focusing on washing and screening plants, jigs, thickeners, tailings, water systems, conveyors and reclaimers.

Read more...
Agogo Integrated West Hub Project: FPSO/subsea offshore Angola
Moore Process Controls System Integration & Control Systems Design
The Agogo Integrated West Hub project represents a historic milestone in the FPSO and subsea industry, achieving first oil offshore of Angola. This project is the first FPSO deployment since ANPG’s establishment in 2019, and the first major project for Azule Energy since 2022.

Read more...
Integrated Robotics and Control Systems Deliver 45% Production Boost at Aquazania Waters Project and Industry
Process Dynamics System Integration & Control Systems Design
Project and Industry    Process Dynamics designed and commissioned a state-of-the-art Reverse Osmosis (RO) water purification and automated bottle filling plant for Aquazania Waters in Linbro Park, Johannesburg. ...

Read more...
Digital transformation from the edge
DirectLogic Automation System Integration & Control Systems Design
Edge-enabled PLCs are an accessible and affordable way for most users to collect and create value from use field-sourced data.

Read more...
Powering southern Africa’s industrial evolution for over five decades
Oilpower System Integration & Control Systems Design
Established in 1974, Oilpower is a recognised name in South Africa’s hydraulic and pneumatic sector. What started as a small, family-run business has matured into a highly structured operation with specialised teams, experienced engineers and a reputation for technical excellence and reliability. Oilpower is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year

Read more...
Metal plant automation upgrade
ABB South Africa System Integration & Control Systems Design
A combined compressor house (CCH) control system replacement project, undertaken by NJC, an ABB Authorised Value Provider (AVP), has won high praise from client ArcelorMittal.

Read more...
SIs - the channel’s conductors of light
Schneider Electric South Africa System Integration & Control Systems Design
Today’s original equipment manufacturers are innovators in the truest sense, driving the absolute newest in technological advancement. While they develop advanced and often groundbreaking solutions, it is the system integrators who bring these innovations to life.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved