Predicting mechanical friction effects on engine performance

FAST is a predictive friction analysis tool for rapidly estimating mechanical friction in internal combustion engines. It provides fast, practical friction predictions from a limited set of input data, using empirical and semi-empirical calculations validated against motored teardown test data.

FAST helps engineering teams understand friction losses early in development without needing to build higher-fidelity models for every study. It can be used stand alone, where the solver reports a detailed breakdown of total engine friction, or coupled with WAVE to predict FMEP in engine performance simulations.

Key features

• Predicts Friction Mean Effective Pressure (FMEP) during engine development to meet required performance and fuel economy targets
• Accounts for the major sources of loss in the IC engine, including auxiliaries, windage and friction at lubricated contact points
• Provides a detailed breakdown of total engine friction using a limited set of input data
• Supports input generation for engine performance simulation models
• Enables comparison of alternative engine architectures at feasibility and concept stage
• Helps define friction targets during engine development
• Supports interpretation of motored friction teardown tests
• Enables evaluation of friction reduction measures and assessment of downsizing or rightsizing concepts
• Produces predicted friction maps that can be included in real-time engine plant models for vehicle system modelling and virtual calibration

Use FAST to predict mechanical friction earlier, understand engine loss contributors faster and make better-informed decisions before committing to hardware or detailed CAE.