Operating Principles
The Hydra-Brake® absorbs power by a combination of pumping and shearing action with acceleration and deceleration of the water as it passes through the brake. Rotors and stators are designed to provide excellent stability, and the performance of the brake is the same in either direction of rotation. Power absorbed at any given speed may be varied by increasing or decreasing the water level in the brake. This can be accomplished by changing the inlet water flow and adjusting the discharge valve to maintain the desired outlet water temperature.
Power absorption can be measured by the following methods:
- Using a cradle and torque arm in conjunction with force and speed measuring devices, or
- Measuring the water flow and the temperature rise of the water passing through the brake, or
- Use of shaft-type torque meter installed between the prime mover and Hydra-Brake®, with a speed indicator.