Engine Testing and Certification: Managing Emissions and Ensuring Compliance

Engine testing and certification are critical stages in any automotive R&D process. These activities not only confirm the performance, reliability, and durability of engines but also ensure compliance with stringent EPA emission standards.

However, engine testing often involves handling and operating multiple VOC- and HAP-producing systems in one location—often near populated areas—making air quality management and regulatory compliance essential.

Below, we’ll explore the importance of engine testing, the environmental and health challenges associated with it, and proven solutions for controlling emissions in engine test facilities.

The Importance of Engine Test Facilities

Engine testing plays a vital role in the research, development, and manufacturing of vehicles. As automotive technology continues to evolve—through advancements in fuel systems, hybridization, and electrification—understanding how engines perform under specific conditions is more critical than ever.

Whether conducted by third-party test labs or within OEM facilities, engine test stands are indispensable tools for collecting accurate performance data. Testing provides insight into:

  • Fuel efficiency and drivability – Measuring torque-speed performance under steady-state and transient conditions.
  • Durability – Conducting aging, oil, and lubrication tests.
  • Emissions compliance – Performing volumetric and mass emission testing under regulated test cycles.
  • Engine optimization – Mapping relationships between variables (e.g., intake manifold pressure, engine speed, and air flow rate) to enhance performance.

Environmental and Health Impacts of Engine Testing

Engine testing is, at its core, “running an engine in place.” While this process supports cleaner engine development in the long term, it still relies on combustion—and combustion produces Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs) that must be effectively managed.

Improper abatement of these pollutants not only endangers employees and nearby communities but can also lead to costly regulatory and legal issues.

Common HAPs and Their Health Effects

Engine test cells and stands commonly emit pollutants formed during combustion or originating from the fuel itself. Key HAPs include:

  • Toluene – Causes central nervous system dysfunction, fatigue, confusion, and eye and respiratory irritation; high exposure can be fatal.
  • Benzene – A known carcinogen linked to nerve inflammation, CNS depression, and cardiac sensitization.
  • Mixed Xylenes – Lead to nasal and throat irritation, nausea, vomiting, and neurological effects.
  • 1,3-Butadiene – Causes eye and lung irritation, blurred vision, fatigue, and dizziness.
  • Carbon Monoxide – causes headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusing, seizures, coma, heart attack, or death

Clearly, these are not substances you want your employees—or your community—exposed to.

Environmental Implications

 When VOCs and HAPs are released into the atmosphere, they can negatively impact surrounding communities and contribute to broader environmental issues such as ground-level ozone and NOx formation. Without proper controls, engine test facilities can unintentionally add to local air pollution burdens and public health risks.

Reducing Pollutants at Engine Test Facilities

To mitigate these risks, effective airflow management and pollutant destruction systems are essential.

The CMM Group partners with automotive manufacturers and testing facilities to design, manufacture, and install custom air pollution abatement systems that reduce emissions, maintain compliance, and enhance operational efficiency.

Our team evaluates your:

  • Current VOC and HAP emission levels
  • Regulatory requirements
  • Facility layout
  • Utility costs and energy usage

Then, we deliver a tailored solution that optimizes pollutant control while minimizing operating costs.

Partner with The CMM Group

Whether you’re designing a new test facility or upgrading existing systems, The CMM Group can help ensure your operation runs clean, safe, and compliant. Our custom-engineered pollution control solutions protect your employees, your community, and your bottom line.