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Motorsport
Solutions

Test and Calibration

Druck’s Motorsport Solutions offers a range of test and calibration products, including high-precision handheld pressure calibrators and indicators, pressure controllers, as well as high-quality temperature and calibration devices.

→ PRODUCTS

Sensors

Druck’s Motorsport Solutions offers sensor products, specifically on-car pressure sensors. These include the 4200, 4300, 4400, and 4600 series, all designed for precise pressure measurements in motorsport applications.

→ PRODUCTS

On-Car Pressure Sensors

Druck offers a range of on-car pressure sensors, including the 4200, 4300, 4400, and 4600 series. These sensors are specifically designed for precise pressure measurements and offer high accuracy and reliability.

→ PRODUCTS

Off-Car Pressure Sensors

Druck offers off-car pressure sensors such as the UNIK5000, ADROIT6200, UNIK5000H, and RPS / DPS8000H. These sensors are designed for precise measurements and tests outside the vehicle.

→ PRODUCTS

 

Leading global motorsport teams have trusted Druck’s pressure sensors for many years due to the performance, speed, and reliability our sensors offer, which are of utmost importance in the motorsport arena.

Druck can provide pressure and temperature sensors that meet the size, weight, and material restrictions of the teams for a variety of applications and fluids, including fuels, oils, coolants, and hydraulic system pressures, in demanding environments with high temperatures and vibration levels.

Success in motorsport depends on hundreds of components working together under extreme conditions. Each component must be rigorously and accurately tested to ensure the measurements meet the specifications. With a range of high-performance pressure calibrators and portable indicators for testing and diagnostics in the factory or at the track, it is time to consider Druck as your partner in motorsport.

→ Production car racing series

Transmission Oil Pressure

Overview

Measuring the oil pressure in the transmission of a production race car is a good indicator of whether the mechanical performance and torque are being efficiently transferred from the engine to other systems. Abnormal pressure changes in the transmission can be an early warning sign of potential issues with the transmission or lubrication system, which can significantly affect performance and reliability. Data from the sensors can be collected and analyzed in real-time if telemetry is available, or downloaded from a data logger for analysis.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport sensors are reliable and designed for use in harsh environments. There are a range of Druck motorsport sensors suitable for measuring gearbox pressure, including the PMP4200, PMP4300, and the top-of-the-line PMP4400, our smallest motorsport pressure sensor. All sensors can withstand high operating temperatures and heat soak, and they have a high bandwidth, which can also be used to monitor pump condition.

Turbocharger Pressure

Overview

Measuring the oil pressure in the transmission of a production series racing car is a good indicator of whether mechanical power and torque are being efficiently transmitted from the engine to other systems. Abnormal pressure changes in the transmission can be an early warning sign of potential issues with the transmission or lubrication system, which can significantly impact performance and reliability. Data from the sensors can be collected and analyzed in real time if telemetry is available, or downloaded and analyzed from a data logger.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can help provide data to optimize engine efficiency. The accuracy of the sensors allows engineers to reduce safety margins and increase fuel efficiency and performance. The Druck motorsport sensors start with the PMP4200 and the configurable PMP4300. The top model PMP4400 is the smallest sensor, and all are ideal for measuring turbo pressure.

Engine Oil Pressure

Overview

The engine requires oil to lubricate the moving parts in the production race car’s engine. Oil is pumped under pressure into the narrow space between the crankshaft and bearings to form a thin layer that prevents the crankshaft from making physical contact with the bearings. The oil pump must generate enough pressure to maintain this optimal performance. Too much pressure leads to unnecessary power loss, while too little pressure can cause the components to rub and potentially fail, reducing reliability. Another purpose of circulating oil under pressure in the engine is to control the engine temperature. More than 50% of the heat generated by the engine is carried away by the oil.

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport sensors are reliable and designed for use in harsh environments. They can withstand high operating temperatures and back heat. The sensor range has a high bandwidth that can also be used to monitor pump condition. This high bandwidth and accuracy of the pressure sensors provide engineers with higher quality data, enabling them to detect small deviations in system performance and identify changes before they become problems, allowing active management during or between races. The Druck motorsport sensors start with the PMP4200 and extend to the configurable PMP4300. The most advanced sensor is the PMP4400, which is the smallest and lightest of all sensors. All can be used to measure and monitor oil pressure.

Brake Pressure

Overview

The brake pressure transferred from the driver’s pedal to the front and rear wheels can have a significant impact on the performance of a production race car. When braking, the tire is pressed against the ground. As the car decelerates, the weight shifts from the rear to the front tires. This weight transfer reduces the braking force that the rear tires can generate. If too much braking force is applied to the rear wheels, they can lock up, causing the rear end to lose traction and possibly swing out violently. Understanding the brake pressure applied to the front and rear wheels should ensure that the front wheels lock up slightly before the rear wheels under heavy braking. This should ensure that the vehicle remains controllable when it needs to be slowed down. Brake pressure data also provides input for other vehicle systems, such as anti-lock braking systems, to optimize performance.

 

Druck Solution

Data from Druck motorsport sensors can help engineers optimize the vehicle’s brake balance. They can also be used to measure brake fluid temperature. If the brake fluid becomes too hot, it thins out and becomes less efficient in operating the brakes safely and effectively. The ideal solution would be to use the premium Druck PMP4400T, which combines pressure and temperature in one sensor, thereby reducing the need for multiple sensors, which decreases weight and complexity. Alternatively, the smaller PMP4400, the configurable PMP4300, or the entry-level PMP4200 can be used to measure pressure only.

Hydraulic Fluid Pressure

Overview

In a production race car, there are several hydraulically actuated systems. These include gearbox activation, turbocharger control, and power steering. Hydraulic fluid is less compressible than pneumatics and can respond more quickly to rapid step commands, as well as achieve much higher levels of accuracy and repeatability. Monitoring the hydraulic fluid pressure allows the driver and engineers to be alerted to a potential leak or system failure. This could lead to the failure of a critical component and compromise the driver’s safety.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can be used to measure hydraulic fluid pressure. They have a high overload capability, which prevents sensor damage in the event of a pressure spike. The high bandwidth and accuracy of the pressure sensors provide engineers with better quality data, enabling them to detect small deviations in system performance and identify changes before they become problems. This allows for active management during or between races. The Druck motorsport product range starts with the PMP4200 and extends through the configurable PMP4300 to the top model PMP4400. All sensors can provide engineers with essential hydraulic pressure data.

Coolant Pressure

Overview

In production racing series vehicles, pressurized cooling systems are crucial to keep the water in contact with the metal surfaces of the cylinder heads and block. The pressurized system must be high enough to lower the boiling point of the coolant. If there is a pressure loss in the cooling system, the engine is likely to lose power as the temperature rises. If the pressure is too high, it can lead to power loss because the pumps have to work harder than necessary, or indicate a problem with the cooling system, resulting in power loss and reduced reliability.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can be used to detect leaks or other issues in the cooling system. This could indicate a failure of the head gasket or other critical engine and cooling system components, which would reduce performance and reliability. As cooling systems require careful pressure monitoring, the PMP4200, PMP4300, and the top model PMP4400 are ideal pressure sensors for measuring coolant pressure.

Air Filter Box Pressure

Overview

The air box and intake system in a series race car determine the maximum amount of air pumped by the engine, the amount of fuel it can burn, and the power level it can generate. At high speed, air is forced into the intake opening and then directed through a narrowing pipe to the air filter. The air reaches the air filter at a higher pressure than atmospheric pressure, which is a result of the dynamic pressure created by the car’s speed. Monitoring the air box pressure indicates potential blockages and provides data to ensure that the air-to-fuel ratio in the combustion chamber is optimized for the required performance.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can provide data for engine efficiency setup. The accuracy of the sensors allows engineers to correctly adjust the air-fuel mixture and increase engine efficiency. The Druck PMP4200 pressure sensor, the configurable PMP4300, and the smaller PMP4400 pressure sensor can deliver accurate and reliable data to optimize the vehicle’s performance.

Fuel System Pressure

Overview

In a series racing car, the amount of fuel supplied to the internal combustion engine is influenced by the pressure in the fuel system. Data from the sensor is used by the ECU to optimize engine combustion. If the fuel pressure is too low, the engine will not receive the correct amount of fuel for the combustion process, causing the engine to run hotter and reducing reliability and performance. If the pressure is too high, an excessive amount of fuel will be pushed into the combustion chamber, increasing fuel consumption and reducing performance.

 

Druck Solution

The Druck motorsport sensor range offers highly accurate and reliable data, allowing engineers to optimize performance and detect issues with fuel system pressure. The Druck PMP4200, configurable PMP4300, and the top model PMP4400 pressure sensors are ideal for monitoring fuel system pressure.

Crankcase Pressure

Overview

Crankcase pressure can increase when combustion gases escape past the piston rings into the crankcase. The rotation and speed of the rotating system, which also cause windage, contribute to crankcase pressure. Crankcase pressure is relieved through vents, which can even cause them to drip or bubble oil. In the worst case, if problematic piston rings or cylinder conditions are present, the pressure can exceed the venting capacity and cause seals to blow out and leak. In a highly tuned rally GT car, gases escaping into the crankcase cannot be avoided, but monitoring the pressure to ensure there are no issues with the pistons, rings, or cylinder bores ensures maximum performance.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors mounted on the crankcase allow engineers to monitor the efficiency of engine performance. If the crankcase pressure is outside the specifications, it can lead to inefficiencies of the moving parts. The Druck motorsport pressure sensors offer various specification levels that suit the application, from the PMP4200 series to the configurable PMP4300 series to the smaller, higher-quality PMP4400 series. All provide race engineers with the ability to obtain data on the condition of the crankcase pressure.

→ Single-seater racing series

Transmission Oil Pressure

Overview

Measuring the oil pressure in the transmission of a production race car is a good indicator of whether the mechanical performance and torque are being efficiently transferred from the engine to other systems. Abnormal pressure changes in the transmission can be an early warning sign of potential issues with the transmission or lubrication system, which can significantly affect performance and reliability. Data from the sensors can be collected and analyzed in real-time if telemetry is available, or downloaded from a data logger for analysis.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport sensors are reliable and designed for use in harsh environments. There are a range of Druck motorsport sensors suitable for measuring gearbox pressure, including the PMP4200, PMP4300, and the top-of-the-line PMP4400, our smallest motorsport pressure sensor. All sensors can withstand high operating temperatures and heat soak, and they have a high bandwidth, which can also be used to monitor pump condition.

Turbocharger Pressure

Overview

Measuring the oil pressure in the transmission of a production series racing car is a good indicator of whether mechanical power and torque are being efficiently transmitted from the engine to other systems. Abnormal pressure changes in the transmission can be an early warning sign of potential issues with the transmission or lubrication system, which can significantly impact performance and reliability. Data from the sensors can be collected and analyzed in real time if telemetry is available, or downloaded and analyzed from a data logger.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can help provide data to optimize engine efficiency. The accuracy of the sensors allows engineers to reduce safety margins and increase fuel efficiency and performance. The Druck motorsport sensors start with the PMP4200 and the configurable PMP4300. The top model PMP4400 is the smallest sensor, and all are ideal for measuring turbo pressure.

Engine Oil Pressure

Overview

The engine requires oil to lubricate the moving parts in the production race car’s engine. Oil is pumped under pressure into the narrow space between the crankshaft and bearings to form a thin layer that prevents the crankshaft from making physical contact with the bearings. The oil pump must generate enough pressure to maintain this optimal performance. Too much pressure leads to unnecessary power loss, while too little pressure can cause the components to rub and potentially fail, reducing reliability. Another purpose of circulating oil under pressure in the engine is to control the engine temperature. More than 50% of the heat generated by the engine is carried away by the oil.

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport sensors are reliable and designed for use in harsh environments. They can withstand high operating temperatures and back heat. The sensor range has a high bandwidth that can also be used to monitor pump condition. This high bandwidth and accuracy of the pressure sensors provide engineers with higher quality data, enabling them to detect small deviations in system performance and identify changes before they become problems, allowing active management during or between races. The Druck motorsport sensors start with the PMP4200 and extend to the configurable PMP4300. The most advanced sensor is the PMP4400, which is the smallest and lightest of all sensors. All can be used to measure and monitor oil pressure.

Brake Pressure

Overview

The brake pressure transferred from the driver’s pedal to the front and rear wheels can have a significant impact on the performance of a production race car. When braking, the tire is pressed against the ground. As the car decelerates, the weight shifts from the rear to the front tires. This weight transfer reduces the braking force that the rear tires can generate. If too much braking force is applied to the rear wheels, they can lock up, causing the rear end to lose traction and possibly swing out violently. Understanding the brake pressure applied to the front and rear wheels should ensure that the front wheels lock up slightly before the rear wheels under heavy braking. This should ensure that the vehicle remains controllable when it needs to be slowed down. Brake pressure data also provides input for other vehicle systems, such as anti-lock braking systems, to optimize performance.

 

Druck Solution

Data from Druck motorsport sensors can help engineers optimize the vehicle’s brake balance. They can also be used to measure brake fluid temperature. If the brake fluid becomes too hot, it thins out and becomes less efficient in operating the brakes safely and effectively. The ideal solution would be to use the premium Druck PMP4400T, which combines pressure and temperature in one sensor, thereby reducing the need for multiple sensors, which decreases weight and complexity. Alternatively, the smaller PMP4400, the configurable PMP4300, or the entry-level PMP4200 can be used to measure pressure only.

Hydraulic Fluid Pressure

Overview

In a production race car, there are several hydraulically actuated systems. These include gearbox activation, turbocharger control, and power steering. Hydraulic fluid is less compressible than pneumatics and can respond more quickly to rapid step commands, as well as achieve much higher levels of accuracy and repeatability. Monitoring the hydraulic fluid pressure allows the driver and engineers to be alerted to a potential leak or system failure. This could lead to the failure of a critical component and compromise the driver’s safety.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can be used to measure hydraulic fluid pressure. They have a high overload capability, which prevents sensor damage in the event of a pressure spike. The high bandwidth and accuracy of the pressure sensors provide engineers with better quality data, enabling them to detect small deviations in system performance and identify changes before they become problems. This allows for active management during or between races. The Druck motorsport product range starts with the PMP4200 and extends through the configurable PMP4300 to the top model PMP4400. All sensors can provide engineers with essential hydraulic pressure data.

Coolant Pressure

Overview

In production racing series vehicles, pressurized cooling systems are crucial to keep the water in contact with the metal surfaces of the cylinder heads and block. The pressurized system must be high enough to lower the boiling point of the coolant. If there is a pressure loss in the cooling system, the engine is likely to lose power as the temperature rises. If the pressure is too high, it can lead to power loss because the pumps have to work harder than necessary, or indicate a problem with the cooling system, resulting in power loss and reduced reliability.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can be used to detect leaks or other issues in the cooling system. This could indicate a failure of the head gasket or other critical engine and cooling system components, which would reduce performance and reliability. As cooling systems require careful pressure monitoring, the PMP4200, PMP4300, and the top model PMP4400 are ideal pressure sensors for measuring coolant pressure.

Air Filter Box Pressure

Overview

The air box and intake system in a series race car determine the maximum amount of air pumped by the engine, the amount of fuel it can burn, and the power level it can generate. At high speed, air is forced into the intake opening and then directed through a narrowing pipe to the air filter. The air reaches the air filter at a higher pressure than atmospheric pressure, which is a result of the dynamic pressure created by the car’s speed. Monitoring the air box pressure indicates potential blockages and provides data to ensure that the air-to-fuel ratio in the combustion chamber is optimized for the required performance.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can provide data for engine efficiency setup. The accuracy of the sensors allows engineers to correctly adjust the air-fuel mixture and increase engine efficiency. The Druck PMP4200 pressure sensor, the configurable PMP4300, and the smaller PMP4400 pressure sensor can deliver accurate and reliable data to optimize the vehicle’s performance.

Fuel System Pressure

Overview

In a series racing car, the amount of fuel supplied to the internal combustion engine is influenced by the pressure in the fuel system. Data from the sensor is used by the ECU to optimize engine combustion. If the fuel pressure is too low, the engine will not receive the correct amount of fuel for the combustion process, causing the engine to run hotter and reducing reliability and performance. If the pressure is too high, an excessive amount of fuel will be pushed into the combustion chamber, increasing fuel consumption and reducing performance.

 

Druck Solution

The Druck motorsport sensor range offers highly accurate and reliable data, allowing engineers to optimize performance and detect issues with fuel system pressure. The Druck PMP4200, configurable PMP4300, and the top model PMP4400 pressure sensors are ideal for monitoring fuel system pressure.

Crankcase Pressure

Overview

Crankcase pressure can increase when combustion gases escape past the piston rings into the crankcase. The rotation and speed of the rotating system, which also cause windage, contribute to crankcase pressure. Crankcase pressure is relieved through vents, which can even cause them to drip or bubble oil. In the worst case, if problematic piston rings or cylinder conditions are present, the pressure can exceed the venting capacity and cause seals to blow out and leak. In a highly tuned rally GT car, gases escaping into the crankcase cannot be avoided, but monitoring the pressure to ensure there are no issues with the pistons, rings, or cylinder bores ensures maximum performance.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors mounted on the crankcase allow engineers to monitor the efficiency of engine performance. If the crankcase pressure is outside the specifications, it can lead to inefficiencies of the moving parts. The Druck motorsport pressure sensors offer various specification levels that suit the application, from the PMP4200 series to the configurable PMP4300 series to the smaller, higher-quality PMP4400 series. All provide race engineers with the ability to obtain data on the condition of the crankcase pressure.

Pneumatic Pressure

Overview

Pneumatic suspensions are widespread in single-seater racing as engineers have found that compressed air offers advantages over metal springs. The use of pneumatics allows precise control of valves to follow high-lift camshafts for a shorter period than metals require to reach competitive speeds. Pneumatic cylinders are also flexible enough to provide a pneumatically controlled suspension. By monitoring and controlling different pneumatic pressures, race engineers can optimize the race car for the circuit.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport sensors can monitor the use of compressed air in the vehicle. If a change is detected, it can indicate a problem, such as a leak or a faulty part. With the Druck PMP4400T, the engineer can measure both temperature and pressure, providing additional data to monitor the vehicle’s condition and setup. If temperature measurement is not required, the PMP4300 or the smaller PMP4400 are suitable for this application. For pressure measurement only, the configurable PMP4300 and smaller PMP4400 pressure sensors are ideal.

→ racing motorcycle series

Engine Oil Pressure

Overview

The engine requires oil to lubricate the moving parts in the production race car’s engine. Oil is pumped under pressure into the narrow space between the crankshaft and bearings to form a thin layer that prevents the crankshaft from making physical contact with the bearings. The oil pump must generate enough pressure to maintain this optimal performance. Too much pressure leads to unnecessary power loss, while too little pressure can cause the components to rub and potentially fail, reducing reliability. Another purpose of circulating oil under pressure in the engine is to control the engine temperature. More than 50% of the heat generated by the engine is carried away by the oil.

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport sensors are reliable and designed for use in harsh environments. They can withstand high operating temperatures and back heat. The sensor range has a high bandwidth that can also be used to monitor pump condition. This high bandwidth and accuracy of the pressure sensors provide engineers with higher quality data, enabling them to detect small deviations in system performance and identify changes before they become problems, allowing active management during or between races. The Druck motorsport sensors start with the PMP4200 and extend to the configurable PMP4300. The most advanced sensor is the PMP4400, which is the smallest and lightest of all sensors. All can be used to measure and monitor oil pressure.

Brake Pressure

Overview

The brake pressure transferred from the driver’s pedal to the front and rear wheels can have a significant impact on the performance of a production race car. When braking, the tire is pressed against the ground. As the car decelerates, the weight shifts from the rear to the front tires. This weight transfer reduces the braking force that the rear tires can generate. If too much braking force is applied to the rear wheels, they can lock up, causing the rear end to lose traction and possibly swing out violently. Understanding the brake pressure applied to the front and rear wheels should ensure that the front wheels lock up slightly before the rear wheels under heavy braking. This should ensure that the vehicle remains controllable when it needs to be slowed down. Brake pressure data also provides input for other vehicle systems, such as anti-lock braking systems, to optimize performance.

 

Druck Solution

Data from Druck motorsport sensors can help engineers optimize the vehicle’s brake balance. They can also be used to measure brake fluid temperature. If the brake fluid becomes too hot, it thins out and becomes less efficient in operating the brakes safely and effectively. The ideal solution would be to use the premium Druck PMP4400T, which combines pressure and temperature in one sensor, thereby reducing the need for multiple sensors, which decreases weight and complexity. Alternatively, the smaller PMP4400, the configurable PMP4300, or the entry-level PMP4200 can be used to measure pressure only.

Fuel System Pressure

Overview

In a series racing car, the amount of fuel supplied to the internal combustion engine is influenced by the pressure in the fuel system. Data from the sensor is used by the ECU to optimize engine combustion. If the fuel pressure is too low, the engine will not receive the correct amount of fuel for the combustion process, causing the engine to run hotter and reducing reliability and performance. If the pressure is too high, an excessive amount of fuel will be pushed into the combustion chamber, increasing fuel consumption and reducing performance.

 

Druck Solution

The Druck motorsport sensor range offers highly accurate and reliable data, allowing engineers to optimize performance and detect issues with fuel system pressure. The Druck PMP4200, configurable PMP4300, and the top model PMP4400 pressure sensors are ideal for monitoring fuel system pressure.

Coolant Pressure

Overview

In production racing series vehicles, pressurized cooling systems are crucial to keep the water in contact with the metal surfaces of the cylinder heads and block. The pressurized system must be high enough to lower the boiling point of the coolant. If there is a pressure loss in the cooling system, the engine is likely to lose power as the temperature rises. If the pressure is too high, it can lead to power loss because the pumps have to work harder than necessary, or indicate a problem with the cooling system, resulting in power loss and reduced reliability.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can be used to detect leaks or other issues in the cooling system. This could indicate a failure of the head gasket or other critical engine and cooling system components, which would reduce performance and reliability. As cooling systems require careful pressure monitoring, the PMP4200, PMP4300, and the top model PMP4400 are ideal pressure sensors for measuring coolant pressure.

Pneumatic Pressure

Overview

Pneumatic suspensions are widespread in single-seater racing as engineers have found that compressed air offers advantages over metal springs. The use of pneumatics allows precise control of valves to follow high-lift camshafts for a shorter period than metals require to reach competitive speeds. Pneumatic cylinders are also flexible enough to provide a pneumatically controlled suspension. By monitoring and controlling different pneumatic pressures, race engineers can optimize the race car for the circuit.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport sensors can monitor the use of compressed air in the vehicle. If a change is detected, it can indicate a problem, such as a leak or a faulty part. With the Druck PMP4400T, the engineer can measure both temperature and pressure, providing additional data to monitor the vehicle’s condition and setup. If temperature measurement is not required, the PMP4300 or the smaller PMP4400 are suitable for this application. For pressure measurement only, the configurable PMP4300 and smaller PMP4400 pressure sensors are ideal.

Air Filter Box Pressure

Overview

The air box and intake system in a series race car determine the maximum amount of air pumped by the engine, the amount of fuel it can burn, and the power level it can generate. At high speed, air is forced into the intake opening and then directed through a narrowing pipe to the air filter. The air reaches the air filter at a higher pressure than atmospheric pressure, which is a result of the dynamic pressure created by the car’s speed. Monitoring the air box pressure indicates potential blockages and provides data to ensure that the air-to-fuel ratio in the combustion chamber is optimized for the required performance.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can provide data for engine efficiency setup. The accuracy of the sensors allows engineers to correctly adjust the air-fuel mixture and increase engine efficiency. The Druck PMP4200 pressure sensor, the configurable PMP4300, and the smaller PMP4400 pressure sensor can deliver accurate and reliable data to optimize the vehicle’s performance.

Crankcase Pressure

Overview

Crankcase pressure can increase when combustion gases escape past the piston rings into the crankcase. The rotation and speed of the rotating system, which also cause windage, contribute to crankcase pressure. Crankcase pressure is relieved through vents, which can even cause them to drip or bubble oil. In the worst case, if problematic piston rings or cylinder conditions are present, the pressure can exceed the venting capacity and cause seals to blow out and leak. In a highly tuned rally GT car, gases escaping into the crankcase cannot be avoided, but monitoring the pressure to ensure there are no issues with the pistons, rings, or cylinder bores ensures maximum performance.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors mounted on the crankcase allow engineers to monitor the efficiency of engine performance. If the crankcase pressure is outside the specifications, it can lead to inefficiencies of the moving parts. The Druck motorsport pressure sensors offer various specification levels that suit the application, from the PMP4200 series to the configurable PMP4300 series to the smaller, higher-quality PMP4400 series. All provide race engineers with the ability to obtain data on the condition of the crankcase pressure.

→ R&D test bench

Turbocharger Pressure

Overview

Measuring the oil pressure in the transmission of a production series racing car is a good indicator of whether mechanical power and torque are being efficiently transmitted from the engine to other systems. Abnormal pressure changes in the transmission can be an early warning sign of potential issues with the transmission or lubrication system, which can significantly impact performance and reliability. Data from the sensors can be collected and analyzed in real time if telemetry is available, or downloaded and analyzed from a data logger.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can help provide data to optimize engine efficiency. The accuracy of the sensors allows engineers to reduce safety margins and increase fuel efficiency and performance. The Druck motorsport sensors start with the PMP4200 and the configurable PMP4300. The top model PMP4400 is the smallest sensor, and all are ideal for measuring turbo pressure.

Engine Oil Pressure

Overview

The engine requires oil to lubricate the moving parts in the production race car’s engine. Oil is pumped under pressure into the narrow space between the crankshaft and bearings to form a thin layer that prevents the crankshaft from making physical contact with the bearings. The oil pump must generate enough pressure to maintain this optimal performance. Too much pressure leads to unnecessary power loss, while too little pressure can cause the components to rub and potentially fail, reducing reliability. Another purpose of circulating oil under pressure in the engine is to control the engine temperature. More than 50% of the heat generated by the engine is carried away by the oil.

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport sensors are reliable and designed for use in harsh environments. They can withstand high operating temperatures and back heat. The sensor range has a high bandwidth that can also be used to monitor pump condition. This high bandwidth and accuracy of the pressure sensors provide engineers with higher quality data, enabling them to detect small deviations in system performance and identify changes before they become problems, allowing active management during or between races. The Druck motorsport sensors start with the PMP4200 and extend to the configurable PMP4300. The most advanced sensor is the PMP4400, which is the smallest and lightest of all sensors. All can be used to measure and monitor oil pressure.

Hydraulic Fluid Pressure

Overview

In a production race car, there are several hydraulically actuated systems. These include gearbox activation, turbocharger control, and power steering. Hydraulic fluid is less compressible than pneumatics and can respond more quickly to rapid step commands, as well as achieve much higher levels of accuracy and repeatability. Monitoring the hydraulic fluid pressure allows the driver and engineers to be alerted to a potential leak or system failure. This could lead to the failure of a critical component and compromise the driver’s safety.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can be used to measure hydraulic fluid pressure. They have a high overload capability, which prevents sensor damage in the event of a pressure spike. The high bandwidth and accuracy of the pressure sensors provide engineers with better quality data, enabling them to detect small deviations in system performance and identify changes before they become problems. This allows for active management during or between races. The Druck motorsport product range starts with the PMP4200 and extends through the configurable PMP4300 to the top model PMP4400. All sensors can provide engineers with essential hydraulic pressure data.

Coolant Pressure

Overview

In production racing series vehicles, pressurized cooling systems are crucial to keep the water in contact with the metal surfaces of the cylinder heads and block. The pressurized system must be high enough to lower the boiling point of the coolant. If there is a pressure loss in the cooling system, the engine is likely to lose power as the temperature rises. If the pressure is too high, it can lead to power loss because the pumps have to work harder than necessary, or indicate a problem with the cooling system, resulting in power loss and reduced reliability.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can be used to detect leaks or other issues in the cooling system. This could indicate a failure of the head gasket or other critical engine and cooling system components, which would reduce performance and reliability. As cooling systems require careful pressure monitoring, the PMP4200, PMP4300, and the top model PMP4400 are ideal pressure sensors for measuring coolant pressure.

Air Filter Box Pressure

Overview

The air box and intake system in a series race car determine the maximum amount of air pumped by the engine, the amount of fuel it can burn, and the power level it can generate. At high speed, air is forced into the intake opening and then directed through a narrowing pipe to the air filter. The air reaches the air filter at a higher pressure than atmospheric pressure, which is a result of the dynamic pressure created by the car’s speed. Monitoring the air box pressure indicates potential blockages and provides data to ensure that the air-to-fuel ratio in the combustion chamber is optimized for the required performance.

 

Druck Solution

Druck motorsport pressure sensors can provide data for engine efficiency setup. The accuracy of the sensors allows engineers to correctly adjust the air-fuel mixture and increase engine efficiency. The Druck PMP4200 pressure sensor, the configurable PMP4300, and the smaller PMP4400 pressure sensor can deliver accurate and reliable data to optimize the vehicle’s performance.

Fuel System Pressure

Overview

In a series racing car, the amount of fuel supplied to the internal combustion engine is influenced by the pressure in the fuel system. Data from the sensor is used by the ECU to optimize engine combustion. If the fuel pressure is too low, the engine will not receive the correct amount of fuel for the combustion process, causing the engine to run hotter and reducing reliability and performance. If the pressure is too high, an excessive amount of fuel will be pushed into the combustion chamber, increasing fuel consumption and reducing performance.

 

Druck Solution

The Druck motorsport sensor range offers highly accurate and reliable data, allowing engineers to optimize performance and detect issues with fuel system pressure. The Druck PMP4200, configurable PMP4300, and the top model PMP4400 pressure sensors are ideal for monitoring fuel system pressure.