It is necessary to measure torque process control and monitoring. The tightening torque of threaded fasteners, industrial automated processes, and motor output horsepower measurements are some common applications that call for measuring a rotating shaft or torque. When it comes to choosing the right torque sensor, you need to define the targeted location of the torque measurement. Many times, a simple flanged reaction torque sensor is installed directly to a motor or test stand will do everything. If the torque measurement is taken with rotating shaft, a rotary torque sensor is needed.
A rotary -torque sensor is equipped with slip ring or wireless electronics for transmitting the torque signal while it is rotating. The torque being measured with an in line rotary torque sensor can be measured when it is moved to the ground with the help of a reaction torque sensor. For a certain application, a reaction torque sensor is simplified and hence cheaper than a rotary torque sensor. The rotary torque sensor may need keyed shafts, shaft to shaft couplings, hex or square drives and a reaction torque sensor is equipped on one of the ends of flanges with the help of cap screws. If an in line rotary torque is needed, then there are brush and brushless slip rings available too.
Specifications
Once you have defined the type of torque sensor to be used, then the sensor specifications are determined. Apart from the size and attachment needs, determine:
- full scale capacity
- operating environment
- operating temperature
- output type
- accuracy
- bridge resistance, etc.
If a rotary sensor is needed, the maximum rpm must be mentioned. Any compressive/tensile forces or off axis moments being enforced upon the sensor must be determined to make sure that the sensor can withstand these loads safely while determining the measurement. There are many techniques to manufacture exact torque sensors that can be subjected simultaneously to high off axis moments and other forces as well. There are also custom designed sensors available to fit in your current test assembly needs. There are miniature torque sensors and high capacity torque sensors available. There are also integrated encoders available for measuring the rotational speed or position and total measurement systems with digital displays, data acquisition models, digital or analog output signals etc. For more insights, visit the website.
