Altitude Laboratory Tests of Aircraft Engines

Abstract

Abstract This paper gives a concise description of the altitude laboratory and its operation, followed by a discussion of available reports on altitude laboratory testing at the Bureau of Standards during the past 13 years and a summary of conclusions drawn as to engine performance under altitude conditions. Experimental data are presented on a modern 12-cylinder aircraft engine to illustrate (1) the effect of pressure and temperature on power and (2) some theoretical and practical advantages from supercharging. Additional problems to be studied with the present equipment and the need of an altitude laboratory for testing air-cooled aircraft engines are mentioned. Approximate altitude performance data on engines of the latter type are already being obtained by the Navy Department.