Millbrook invests to upgrade testing facilities
25/07/2011 Millbrook Proving Ground Ltd
Millbrook Proving Ground, one of Europe's leading locations for the development and demonstration of every type of land vehicle, has invested in its component testing laboratory (CTL) and safety systems departments, to further upgrade the facilities available for customers. The investment, part of a wider infrastructure upgrade programme at Millbrook, includes an additional and more advanced full vehicle climatic chamber.The new vehicle chamber, 6m x 4m x 2.9m, complements Millbrook's existing range of drive-in and walk-in chambers. Built by Climatec, the facility offers greater control of temperature gradient and improved flexibility, with temperature specification ranging from -55°C to +85°C, with 95% relative humidity. It is now easier to undertake testing on a variety of vehicle types, speeding up the overall testing process. Millbrook is now able to reduce chamber airflow if required, down to 0.2m/s, in order to conduct certain tests.
The first project utilising the new chamber is for Holden, which involves Millbrook conducting durability testing on bonnets and boot lids, as well as front and rear doors. Testing will take place under a number of temperature controlled conditions, including -30°C and up to 90% relative humidity. As with most testing programmes undertaken at Millbrook, the CTL team has designed a bespoke rig for this project, to allow accurate and repeatable door slams up to 7m/s. It also allows for testing to be undertaken in both 'normal' and 'abusive' slam conditions.
Phil Glyn-Davis, head of safety and structural at Millbrook, comments: "We're constantly evolving our facilities here at Millbrook to ensure we provide our customers with the most rigorous and durable testing processes. In such a rapidly-moving industry, it is vital for manufacturers and suppliers to remain ahead of both legislation and consumer trends, when it comes to performance and safety. Our ongoing programme of focused strategic investment allows us to support our customers in these goals and complements the high level of commitment and experience within the Millbrook team."
For more information about Millbrook visit www.millbrook.co.uk or call 01525 404242 or info@millbrook.co.uk
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