A hub dyno is a type of dynamometer used for measuring a vehicle's power and torque, where the car's wheels are removed, and the dyno is directly bolted to the wheel hubs. This method offers a more secure and accurate way to test vehicle performance.
How a Hub Dyno Works:
Unlike traditional dynos where the car's tires spin on rollers, a hub dyno interacts directly with the car's drivetrain. Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Wheel Removal: The car's wheels are first taken off.
- Adapter Installation: Bolt pattern adapters are then used to connect the dyno to the exposed wheel hubs.
- Direct Connection: This direct connection ensures that the dyno is directly linked to the car's drivetrain.
Advantages of Hub Dynos:
- Increased Safety: Because the tires are removed, there's no risk of tire blowouts or straps snapping, making it safer to operate, especially at high speeds. As referenced, “the hub dynos [are] safer to operate as there is no risk for a blown tire or a snapped strap. The driving speed on the dyno can be really high and not all the tires are rated for that.”
- More Accurate Measurements: By eliminating the tires and the potential for slippage, hub dynos provide more precise and reliable power and torque readings.
- High-Speed Testing: Hub dynos can be used for high-speed tests without fear of tire failure, as not all tires are rated for high dyno speeds.
Key Differences Between Hub and Roller Dynos:
| Feature | Hub Dyno | Roller Dyno |
|---|---|---|
| Connection | Directly bolted to wheel hubs | Uses rollers that tires spin on |
| Safety | Safer; eliminates tire-related risks | Less safe due to tire blowout risks |
| Accuracy | Generally more accurate | May have slight inaccuracies due to tire slip |
| Speed | Suitable for high-speed testing | Can be limited by tire speed ratings |
In summary, a hub dyno is a superior option for precise and safe performance testing, especially when high-speed measurements are required. The direct connection between the car’s hubs and the dyno leads to more reliable data by removing the variability introduced by tires.
