Measuring mass flow rate into engine

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on measuring the mass flow rate into a carburated motorcycle engine on a test stand. Two primary methods are proposed: constructing a venturi to measure pressure drop for velocity calculations, and utilizing a Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor to gauge output voltage, which typically ranges from 0-5V. The latter method requires understanding the MAF's transfer function to correlate voltage with cubic feet per minute (CFM). Additionally, integrating a hot wire anemometer and using an OBD-II engine management system can provide real-time data on inlet temperature and mass flow.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of venturi principles and pressure drop calculations
  • Familiarity with Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensors and their voltage output
  • Knowledge of OBD-II protocols and USB-based OBD-II cables
  • Experience with hot wire anemometers and their flow measurement capabilities
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to construct a venturi for accurate mass flow measurements
  • Study the transfer function of MAF sensors to interpret voltage readings
  • Learn about OBD-II engine management systems and data retrieval using USB cables
  • Explore the functionality and calibration of hot wire anemometers for flow measurement
USEFUL FOR

Engine tuners, automotive engineers, and motorcycle enthusiasts looking to optimize engine performance through precise air flow measurements.

joman2055
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I have a motorcycle engine on a test stand and I need a way to measure the mass flow rate into the engine. It is currently carburated.

I had two ideas off the top of my head.

1) build a venturi, and measure the pressure drop to figure out the velocity and therefore the mass flow rate. This requires a bit more intensive fabrication.

2) hook up a MAF and measure the output voltage (usually from 0-5v). I like this option but I am not exactly sure how to do this and figure where to get the info for what voltage the MAF puts out for what CFM (the transfer function)

Any ideas or info would be appreciated.
 
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Hot wire anemometer and a tube. Many of them can calculate volume flow directly.
 
Any obdII engine management system that uses a mass air flow meter reports the inlet temp and mass of air.

If you can supply the crank reference signal the ecu requires and connect a maf, you should be able to use a usb based obdII cable to read the values.
 

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