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Barbour Stockwell, Inc. (BSi) provides expert spin testing services and systems capable of achieving ultra-high speeds for testing rotating components under the most demanding conditions. In addition to designing and fabricating industry-leading spin test facilities, we offer testing services from our AS9100-certified lab in Woburn, Massachusetts.

Our in-house capabilities include three fully automated spin test facilities equipped with drives that achieve speeds up to 200,000 rpm and capacities up to 1000 kg. Each facility features Full Authority Spin Testing (F.A.S.T.), the most advanced control system available for spin testing. Equipped with a TC-4 drive controller for precise speed control, our systems run automated cyclic spin tests around the clock with continuous monitoring of key parameters and automated system responses to any condition.

These combined capabilities allow BSi to meet the needs of industries that demand the highest levels of reliability and performance, including automotive, aerospace, power generation, and oil and gas.

Equipment Capabilities (Speed, Load, Temperature)

BSi’s in-house spin test facilities are equipped with our Full Authority Spin Testing (F.A.S.T.) control system, recognized as the most advanced platform available for automated spin testing.

The F.A.S.T. system includes:

  • A TC-4 drive controller that delivers precise speed control
  • A custom-designed computer system for equipment control and data acquisition
  • Unmanned, automated cyclic spin testing that operates 24 hours per day
  • Continuous monitoring of test parameters with automatic response to any event

Remote access capabilities allow personnel to monitor tests in real time. If an interruption occurs, automatic notifications are sent to the responsible engineers, who can log in remotely to evaluate and restart the test if appropriate. After completion, final test data can be provided electronically in any requested format.

Air Turbine Drives Available

Maximum Speed (RPM) Weight Capacity (kg) Weight Capacity (lbm)
18,000 1,800 4,000
30,000 700 1,500
40,000 400 900
50,000 400 900
60,000 90 200
100,000 13 30
150,000 3.5 8
200,000 2.7 6

Electric Motor Drives Available

Maximum Speed (RPM) Weight Capacity (kg) Weight Capacity (lbm)
65,000 180 400
30,000 1,150 2,500

Spin Test Chamber Capacities

Test Chamber Diameter Depth
Chamber No. 1 30 in. (750 mm) 20 in. (500 mm)
Chamber No. 2 32 in. (800 mm) 36 in. (900 mm)
Chamber No. 3 48 in. (1200 mm) 30 in. (750 mm)

Oven Specifications

Control Zones Independent Control Zones
Control Parameters Heating Rate and Final Temperature
Maximum Temperature 1500°F (800°C)
Maximum Power 3 kW per Zone

Applications by Industry

BSi’s spin test capabilities support multiple industries, with proven experience in automotive, aerospace, and other testing applications.

Automotive

BSi provides spin testing services and equipment for evaluating the structural integrity of automotive rotating components. Typical test subjects include:

  • Automatic transmission rotors
  • Clutches
  • Cooling fans
  • Electric vehicle (EV) motor and generator rotors
  • Flywheels
  • Turbochargers

Our spin assessments for automotive applications include burst testing, overspeed testing, growth measurement, and low-cycle fatigue (LCF) testing. These evaluations confirm that rotating parts meet all safety and performance requirements before they are placed in service.

Aerospace and Aviation

BSi also supports the aerospace and aviation industries with specialized spin test services and equipment. One of the most important uses of our drives is low-cycle fatigue (LCF) testing on aero engine rotor disks, which helps establish their expected service life.

BSi’s capabilities include the design and manufacture of complete spin test facilities for our customers to do their own testing. These include drives, controls, test chambers, and all related support systems. In addition to LCF testing, BSi performs a range of other tests for aerospace and aviation applications, including:

  • Burst testing
  • Overspeed testing
  • Growth measurement
  • Low-cycle fatigue (LCF) testing
  • High-cycle fatigue (HCF) testing

Typical test components include aero engine rotor disks, as well as aircraft electrical components.

Past Work

BSi has completed numerous projects for major manufacturers, demonstrating our expertise and ability to meet complex testing requirements. View examples of our work below:

Spin Pit Monitoring and Crack Detection

BSi spin pits include instrumentation and sensors that monitor the test environment and component performance. Monitored parameters include:

  • Real-time growth
  • Speed
  • Strain
  • Temperature
  • Additional instrumentation tracks shaft vibration and the overall condition of the rig

Low-cycle fatigue (LCF) testing is one of the most effective methods for determining component life. During these tests, rotating parts are cycled repeatedly from low-speed (low-stress) to operational-speed (high-stress) conditions over a predetermined number of cycles. Testing is conducted at both ambient and elevated temperatures to simulate real-world operation.

Detecting cracks before rupture prevents damage, improves failure analysis accuracy, and preserves components for additional testing. Early detection reduces the cost of lost parts, chamber repair, and retesting.

Crack Detection System

BSi developed the CD1 Crack Detection System to provide a highly effective means of identifying cracks during low-cycle fatigue testing (LCF). The system has a 90% detection rate and can measure cracks as small as 100 micrometers.

By detecting issues early, our crack detection system prevents rotor bursts, protects test equipment, and avoids time-consuming and expensive facility repairs.

Spin Test Services From Barbour Stockwell

Spin Test Services From Barbour Stockwell

Barbour Stockwell delivers complete spin test solutions that help manufacturers verify component integrity, reduce risk, and accelerate development. Our engineers apply extensive experience in both facility design and testing operations to ensure every project meets strict performance and safety standards.

Beyond testing, we provide engineering support for arbor design, including structural and dynamic analysis, as well as rotor balancing. Our team also captures detailed visual documentation of burst tests through high-speed video photography.

Request a quote to learn how our spin testing expertise can support your next project.