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 June
2007
Engine
Test Cells are Latest Success for Hodgson & Hodgson
Hodgson & Hodgson has recently completed a £150,000
installation of ten new Engine Test Cells for the Mechanical Engineering
Department at Birmingham University. The University's Vehicle Technology
Research Centre runs engine research and fuel-testing projects for major
automotive clients such as Jaguar, Land Rover and Shell.
The
existing test facility in the Research Centre consisted of individual
engine test rigs in an open-plan environment and was in need of an upgrade.
Principal Contractors Murray & Willis were appointed by the University
to refurbish the entire area and choose Hodgson & Hodgson to provide
ten Engine Test Cells, with adjoining Control Rooms and Laboratory. The intention was that each individual cell could contain
the noise generated by its own engine test bed, as well as providing enhanced
safety with a high level of fire resistance.
Hodgson
& Hodgson used its 100mm thick Modular
Acoustic Panel System with a noise rating of 38dB Rw, to construct
the test cells. Single and double acoustic doors were fitted to each cell, the single doors incorporating a circular vision
panel. A one hour fire rating was selected for the test cells and additional
fire doors were fitted. Removable roof panels were fitted above each engine
test bed and test cells were connected to their adjoining control rooms
by large double-glazed windows. The facility's existing ventilation systems
were accommodated within the refurbishment.
The
completed refurbishment has resulted in a much improved facility, as Roger
Keey, the University's architect confirms: "We're thrilled with the
new layout of the test facility. Noise levels have been dramatically reduced
and our fire safety is at a much higher level. The upgraded Research Centre
is much smarter and more in keeping with Birmingham's position as one
of the top five research Universities in the UK".
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