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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