Turbine test cells are used for testing and evaluating the performance, reliability, and safety of gas turbine engines commonly used in aerospace applications. Primarily for commercial and military aircraft, these engines must meet stringent industry standards before being installed in aircraft or other applications. Part of monitoring the tests has to include the ability to start, stop, and govern the engine in real-time from the turbine test cell’s control room.

The Low-Pressure Turbine Test Cell, a key component in this discussion, is designed to simulate turbo fan blade malfunction scenarios. The brake application, a crucial safety measure, is required to stop the fan in a very short time, minimizing damage and ensuring maximum safety. The large range of torques and extended braking periods needed to test different products using the same rig further underlines our commitment to safety in testing. 

The end-user initially requested a caliper brake or a low inertia style multi-plate brake. However, the application review revealed that the heat calculated in this application made these options unviable. In response, a proven suitable alternative, the Water Cooled Brake 224 (WCB), was proposed for this installation. This solution, a result of the successful partnership between WPT and Industrial Clutch Parts (ICP), is evidence of our commitment to providing the best performance and reliability for our customers.

WPT and ICP’s continual customer success stems from 30 years of partnership. ICP, one of the most awarded distributorships, was tasked with developing the UK market and has moved into supporting WPT products in other European countries.