Northumbria University: Single & Multi Cylinder Diesel Engine Test Cells

The project was awarded to Sierra CP not only due to our extensive experience in a turnkey facility build but also our flexible approach which would be required as the project develops. Sierra CP worked closely with the customer to determine the Critical Success Factors. Feedback included excellent noise attenuation, package constraints, ease of use and of equal importance, maintenance accessibility. Concept designs were shared with Northumbria University.

Upon agreement on the general layout the structural design phase commenced, this structure consists of concrete block-built construction with engine test cells at either end with a shared operator room. To capitalize on available space and reduce noise breakout, a poured reinforced concrete roof was utilized. This roof in conjunction with the concrete block construction provides excellent noise attenuating qualities as well as providing a stable structure for placement of the ventilation system as well as the regenerative drives. The project was managed as a CDM (Construction Design Management) project with Sierra CP as the prime contractor.

One of our experienced project managers coordinated the multi-disciplined workforce throughout the build and fit-out phases. The facility is now fully commissioned and dedicated to a Ricardo HYDRA single-cylinder research engine and a second cell for a six-cylinder JCB 165kW diesel max engine. The facility is a reliable and repeatable platform for biofuel development.