bhp

[mcosgrove@domain.elided]

In answer to Lawrence's question, yes the "b" is for brake, but nothing to do
with horses and wagons.  Horsepower was (is) measured on absorption dynamometers
or brakes.  Force at the end of a moment arm was measured, the figure (along
with speed and brake arm length)  plugged into a furmula, and you got
horsepower.  On a Prony brake type, the power is absorbed by friction of a brake
band on a flywheel drum.  In a fluid friction type, power is absorbed by
shearing of fluids.  I have a circa 1920 steam engine text that makes the
"brake" principle in bhp rather clear, technology being more basic and out in
the open earlier in this century.  Modern dynamometers are a bit more
sophisticated than wooden blocks on a steel band, but the concepts remain the
same.

Mike

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