The

Parabola of
Power!
By: Joshua Morgan
Why did I choose dyno graphs?
• I chose dyno graphs because I like cars a
lot, also I am big on specific information
and data, and for the last few years I've
been learning about car data using
aftermarket ECU's such as Link ECU.
With the knowledge of knowing how to
track and make changes, we as humans
can tune these cars on a dyno.
• The point of using it is because it shows
where the parabola can be on
something such as a dyno graph,
because they are linear then taper off.
Fun Facts about
Dyno/Dyno Graphs
• BHP is not a real figure, but a calculation of the torque
versus the revs/rev range. It's always better to look at the
torque reading, as this gives a truer idea of how well the
engine is performing.
• The best use for a dyno is for tuning and set up, and of
course for before and after comparison of any performance
changes that were made. Another positive thing is
that tuning, or dyno tuning can be used to get more MPG
out of a car.
• The curve of the graph is the most important. Ideally it
should be a steep rise then plateau out (shown in next
slide), holding the same power through the gears. A graph
that rises to a peak and drops off quickly shows that the
engine is producing max power only for a very narrow
range.
Parabola of a Dyno Graph
• Intercept Form (Used in Parabola)
Y = a (x+h) +k
• X intercept formula:
(x,0) (q,0)
• To measure the Parabola, I will use the midrange of the
powerband (around 4300 RPM) because to get the
precise measurement of the HP (blue line) and torque (red line) ,
it would be nearly impossible to find. The problem with the dyno
graph is that at peak power, the RPM's either start to taper off
slightly, or even go to the peak power then once ended will just
drop. If the stopping point is measured on the graph, the lines
would go backwards, which is impossible when dynoing a car
because the power is regressing. In this case we will use the
midrange power as the Center/ axis of symmetry. I also put an
imaginary line as a way to make it easier to make this project
easier since there is no end point, and this could show the
accuracy of the powerband in regular driving in comparison to full
throttle pulls.

• Axis of Symmetry: x = 4325 RPM, or 0

• Y- Intercept = 475 HP or .5
• X- Intercept = (-1,0) (1,0)
• (4000 RPM) (5270 RPM)
Citation/Bibliography
• https://www.speednik.com/wp-
content/blogs.dir/1/files/2023/01/tech-talk-why-does-a-dyno-graph-
always-cross-at-5252-rpm-2023-01-04_21-22-05_615875.jpg
• http://www.shiny-red.net/our-services/dyno/dyno-facts/
• https://powertestdyno.com/what-is-a-
dyno/#:~:text=A%20dynamometer%2C%20also%20known%20as,or%
20kW)%20can%20be%20calculated.