Test benches operate with intensive cycles, high pressures and rapid changes in flow rate and temperature; in this context, heat exchangers are essential to ensure stable conditions and reliable test results. Sesino air‑oil, [air link] water‑oil and shell‑and‑tube [shell‑and‑tube link] water‑water or water‑gas heat exchangers are used on test benches for pumps, valves, hydraulic motors and internal‑combustion engines, thanks to their efficiency, robustness and custom‑design capability.

Heat exchangers for hydraulic test benches

On test benches for pumps, valves and hydraulic motors, the fluid is continuously accelerated, slowed down and recirculated, generating large amounts of heat. Sesino air‑oil and water‑oil exchangers keep oil within the set temperature range, allowing repeated test cycles without altering operating conditions or degrading the fluid. Thermal stability is essential for correctly comparing performance, losses and efficiency of the components under test, avoiding viscosity changes that could distort results. Properly sized exchangers also help protect service pumps, control valves and bench piping.

Shell‑and‑tube exchangers for engine test benches

For engine and drivetrain test benches, Sesino manufactures shell‑and‑tube exchangers – often entirely in stainless steel – capable of handling intense thermal cycling and rapid temperature changes. These units can be used to cool engine water, process fluids or exhaust gases, depending on bench architecture. Some integrated solutions include expansion compensators designed to absorb differential thermal expansion between shell and tube bundle. This allows safe operation even with severe temperature gradients, reducing the risk of cracking and long‑term damage.

Thermal stability for repeatable results

On a test bench, repeatability and consistency of results depend heavily on the ability to keep fluid and/or gas temperatures constant. Sesino exchangers are sized to maintain as uniform a thermal profile as possible during long‑duration or highly dynamic tests. This supports both development testing and end‑of‑line checks, where component performance must be verified under controlled conditions. Accurate thermal management also reduces cooling times between cycles and increases bench productivity.

Standard and custom solutions for test benches

Depending on heat duty, fluid type and bench architecture, Sesino can supply standard or fully custom exchangers. For hydraulic test benches, air‑oil coolers with AC motors are often used, or shell‑and‑tube and brazed‑plate water‑oil units for higher powers. For engine benches and special applications, dedicated shell‑and‑tube exchangers are designed, possibly in all‑stainless construction and with integrated expansion compensators. In all cases, dimensions, connections, brackets and accessories (by‑pass valves, thermostats, probes) can be tailored to bench specifications.

Integration and engineering support

Sesino supports test‑bench manufacturers during the sizing phase, starting from data such as heat loads, flow rates, target temperatures, pressures and space constraints. Correct thermal and mechanical design of the exchanger makes benches more stable and reliable, capable of continuous operation without overheating issues. For designers of test benches for pumps, valves, hydraulic or internal‑combustion engines, Sesino heat exchangers are a key part of the plant architecture, combining efficiency, robustness and design flexibility.