AMETEK Spectro Scientific’s on-site oil analysis tools have helped Honda Performance Development elevate WTR Andretti and Meyer Shank's ARX-06 race cars to podium finishes.
Honda Performance Development (HPD) faced a formidable challenge during the Rolex 24-hour endurance race in January 2023:
Their most advanced ARX-06 GTP (Grand Touring Prototype) race cars were due to start competing for the first time with new engine hybrid technology and a newly IMSA-approved renewable fuel.
Given the multitude of variables, HPD anticipated the emergence of new wear trends attributable to the hybrid design. Employing onsite oil analysis of both engine oil and transmission fluids was one of the key methods for predicting failures.
HPD deployed its trackside oil analysis lab and support team to Daytona, providing consistent onsite testing and analysis for WTR Racing and Meyer Shank Racing cars throughout the 24-hour race.
This article explores how HPD effectively managed and resolved these challenges, showcasing its commitment to performance excellence and engineering prowess.
Image Credit: Waynetaylorracing.com
Background
Pairing a 671 hp (500 kW) 2.4 L twin-turbo V6 engine with a Bosch hybrid battery system and a new transmission required diligent monitoring of both the engine and gearbox wear throughout the race.
The introduction of a new high-ethanol racing fuel posed potential problems, chiefly excessive fuel dilution. If not addressed, this dilution could lead to a reduction in oil viscosity, which might result in accelerated wear of cylinders and crankcases. Given the intense stress placed on engines during races, such wear could cause failure within minutes.
Replacing an engine mid-race could endanger both the driver’s and the team’s standings. To support trackside engineers in making strategic decisions, on-site oil analysis tools are employed to gather critical data.
During the practice sessions, the first signs of trouble appeared when HPD’s technical team detected anomalies in fuel analysis and unusual engine wear. Further investigation revealed that the race cars were suffering from higher-than-usual fuel dilution in the engine oil, impacting their performance and reliability
On-Site Oil Analysis for Trackside Support
A few years ago, HPD chose Ametek Spectro Scientific for a reliable trackside testing solution, ensuring they were well-prepared for the 2023 Rolex 24 at Daytona.
Ametek Spectro Scientific, now celebrating its 40th anniversary, has established itself as a leader in onsite oil analysis technology. The company has developed advanced, portable analysis tools tailored for in-service lubricant testing, serving a diverse range of clients, including military organizations, racing teams, and various industries requiring high-performance diagnostic solutions.
The requirements for an effective solution included:
- Durability: It needed to be rugged and eliminate the need for solvents and gases.
- High Performance: It had to deliver accurate and rapid results.
- Wear Detection: It should identify both ferrous and nonferrous wear elements to signal potential issues.
- Physical Monitoring: It must track physical parameters to explain the causes of wear.
Figure 1. Trackside mobile lab. Image Credit: AMETEK Spectro Scientific
Solutions
HPD implemented a cutting-edge strategy to monitor the demanding conditions of a 24-hour race.
For trackside support teams, the SpectrOil 120C was selected due to its reliability, user-friendly interface, and rapid analysis capabilities with just a 2 ml sample. The device delivers sub-ppm results for wear metals, additives, and contaminants, which are immediately uploaded to the engineering race management systems.
This real-time data provides valuable insights into engine performance, aiding in predictive maintenance and decision-making.
Figure 2. SpectrOil 120C. Image Credit: AMETEK Spectro Scientific
New Trackside Testing and Validation
The next-generation solution, FieldLab 58C, was also introduced on the trackside.
One of the device's key advantages is the ability to measure all severe (>4 microns) wear particles via elemental analysis. These wear particles act as early warning signs of problems in engines and transmissions.
Figure 3. FieldLab 58C. Image Credit: AMETEK Spectro Scientific
FieldLab 58C analyzes chemistry and viscosity, indicating fuel dilution and lubricant integrity. In addition, the FieldLab 58C stands out for its:
- Rugged and durable design
- No need for solvents
- Storability
- Onboard diagnostics for actions taken immediately
These capabilities combine to make the FieldLab 58C a perfect tool for race teams to conduct on-site oil analyses.
Figure 4. The new elements module on FieldLab 58C is detects abnormal wear earlier than other oil analysis techniques. Image Credit: AMETEK Spectro Scientific
Race Outcome
The January Daytona race was the ultimate test for HPD's advances. The GTP race cars' enhanced oil formulation and engine calibration resulted in outstanding performance and decreased fuel dilution.
HPD's technical solutions improved race car reliability and longevity, in addition to addressing immediate concerns.
Image Credit: Waynetaylorracing.com
Conclusion
Honda Performance Development's ability to overcome engine wear and fuel dilution difficulties at Daytona demonstrated the team's tenacity, technical skill, and dedication to pushing performance limits.
Onsite oil analysis technologies improved HPD's ability to diagnose and address complex issues in real-time, hence contributing to the company's sustained success in the competitive world of motorsport.
This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by AMETEK Spectro Scientific.
For more information on this source, please visit AMETEK Spectro Scientific.