Eaton completes updates at Polish powertrain test site

Eaton’s updated facility in Tczew, Poland, features two new dynamometers (Photo: Eaton)

Eaton has completed what is described as a ‘major refurbishment’ at its test laboratory location in Tczew, Poland.

The updated facility now has advanced test equipment for both internal combustion engines and electrified vehicle powertrain technologies.

A key addition are two new powertrain dynamometers. A heavy-duty (HD) EV transient dynamometer is designed to support development of HD e-transmission architectures.

There is also a medium-duty dynamometer for testing electrified passenger vehicles and light- to medium-duty truck powertrains.

Features include real-time powertrain-in-the-loop tests; embedded electronic tests; thermal and other efficiency studies; endurance and performance tests; hot and cold environment tests; and power electronics tests.

The equipment can be used on both hybrid and fully-electric powertrains.

In addition to this hardware, the 120-year old site has been extensively remodeled to include new electrical and chilled water systems. Further additions include a vibration chamber and thermal shock testing.

There is now also equipment for testing eMobility products, plus inverters, DC/DC power converters, power distribution units and power connections.

“The intention behind these lab [upgrades] was to enable us to test any eMobility product line locally and effectively,” said Dave Prange, lab manager, eMobility, Eaton’s Mobility Group. “The addition of new infrastructure and equipment gives us the flexibility and capacity to quickly meet complex customer demands, particularly for hybrid and electrified vehicles.”

The Tczew site, together with Eaton’s location in Marshall, Michigan, will serve as elements of a global network of testing centers.

“Over the past three years, we’ve built on our existing capabilities to create a versatile, cutting-edge facility,” said Oliver Adamczak, test engineering manager, Powertrain, Eaton’s Mobility Group. “Our team has embraced the transition to electrification, and today 70% of our work focuses on e-powertrain testing. This lab is now equipped to handle a wide portfolio of customer needs, from passenger cars to commercial vehicles.”