Cold Impacts on Vehicle Electrical Systems: Developing a Baseline for Cold Testing Military Vehicles
Abstract
Low temperatures can significantly affect vehicle operation. While many of the effects, like increased fluid viscosity and decreased battery capacity, are well documented, the impacts on the electrical system as a whole are not. The objective of this study was to investigate the impacts of temperature on the electrical systems of select military vehicles and to develop a baseline for future testing. A High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), a Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT), and a four-person diesel Polaris MRZR D4 were subjected to 15 deg C, 0 deg C, and -15 deg C temperatures while the loads on the battery and alternator were monitored. The HMMWV and MRZR were able to start on the first try for all tests. They both showed a slight increase in vehicle load current draw from the alternator as temperatures decreased. Future testing with more iterations and at lower temperatures will help identify clearer trends and improve testing procedures. As the Army becomes more reliant on electronic systems, it is becoming increasingly important that we understand how various climates will impact them.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 13, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1210481
Entities
People
- Alexander R. Stott
- Caitlin A. Callaghan
- Douglas A. Punt
- Tyler J. Elliott
Organizations
- Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory