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Why
do I need a flowbench?
In
today's world of engine building, it is necessary to
extract every usable bit of horsepower from every cubic
inch you build into the short block. Almost all aspects
of an engine are visible and can therefore be measured
and changed to optimize the performance and durability
of the overall package. Air flow is one of the invisible
factors and lies in the cylinder heads, intake and exhaust
systems. A flowbench can measure that "invisible" element.
If you can identify all the flow characteristics of a
port, modifications can then be made to improve its performance
potential. Looking at the port will not tell you anything
about the potential of that port to make horsepower.
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Why
is your flowbench better?
That
is a multi-part answer and I will list them in order
of importance.
Airflow
measurement system:
We
use a laminar flow element (LFE) because of its
accuracy and repeatability rating. We did not
invent nor do we manufacture this component.
It is supplied by MERIAM INSTRUMENTS, comes
to us with certifications and its output is
traceable to the NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS.
Accuracy and repeatability are rated at + or
- ½ of 1%. No other flowbench can claim
this tolerance.
Operation:
Because
of the linear output of the LFE, there is no need for range
changes. This cuts down on the number of controls to be
set when doing a flow test. Controls consist of an intake
/ exhaust lever, flow rate control and an on / off switch.
The flow rate control is a vernier control with a quick
release to more rapidly raise or lower the depression.
A test is completed as quickly as you can adjust the valve
opener and compensate for the depression loss. Because
you never stop the test to reset anything, you will save
valuable time.
Quality:
We
do not cut corners on materials or components used
in our flowbenches. Each part used is chosen because
it is the best one for that purpose.
Service:
FLOW Data builds
each flowbench to its customers' specifications. We can
give you what you want, not what we have in stock. We
are available to deliver, install and train for each
unit. We are here to answer your questions 24 hours a
day, 7 days a week (we know you don't work 9 to 5)
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How
does the LFE work?
The
unit is 30" long and 12" in diameter. It resembles two
bells joined at their big ends and the tops of the bells
open. The air enters the 6" opening at the top. As it
travels through the LFE, the diameter enlarges and the
velocity decreases and turbulence lessens. The air then
flows through the element itself which consists of thousands
of capillary tubes. This creates a condition of virtual
zero turbulence and the air can therefore be measured
accurately.
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What
do you use for air blowers?
Ametek
Lamb double ball bearing, thermally protected motors
(8).
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What
instruments does the base flowbench have?
A
Dwyer Instruments incline manometer (similar to Superflow)
and a 36" vertical manometer.
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What
is the capacity of your base flowbench ?
700
CFM @ 28" nominal. The exact number depends on the
calibrated LFE.
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What
is the electrical power requirement?
A
single phase 220 volt 50 amp circuit.
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What
flowbench options are available?
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NEW "FD 1400 EX" expandable flowbench
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NEW "FD 1400 EX" expansion module
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Upgrade incline manometer to MERIAM INSTRUMENTS
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Upgrade vertical manometer to 48"
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Second vertical manometer
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Extend cabinet left side 10" with door and storage
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Data acquisition system and installation
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Automated depression control
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What
flowbench colors are available?
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FLOWData can
match any color available
in high quality laminates.
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