There are some things to bear in mind when selecting a suitable torque transducer. Before going into the details of technical specifications, it’s worth taking a quick look at the two different torque sensor designs: the measurement flange and the measurement shaft. Both types of sensor have advantages that are especially beneficial for particular applications.
This is where we see the biggest difference between rotating torque transducers and other sensors such as force transducers or load cells In rotating transducers, cables supplying power and transferring measurement data cannot be used because the cables would become entangled as the rotor turns. To avoid this, energy is transferred from the stator to the turning rotor using a contactless connection, which in turn supplies the mounted SG measuring bridge. In return, the turning rotor transfers the measured data to the stator via telemetry.
Electronics are housed in the measuring body. Here, the signal from the SG measuring bridge is amplified, filtered and digitized before being wirelessly transferred to the stator. The data can then be output either via a frequency or voltage signal or digitally via a fieldbus, for example, with EtherCAT or Profinet, depending on the application.
The transducer doesn’t always rotate when measuring torque. Typical examples of non-rotating setups are standard test machines and measurements on mixers. In the latter, the transducer is supported by the housing of the electric motor, and the drive shaft runs through a central hole in the sensor.
In most applications, the sensor is part of the rotating drivetrain between the test specimen and the dynamometer. The specimen could be an internal combustion engine, a gearbox, or an electric motor, for instance.
Torque sensors can do more. In addition to torque, other measured variables can be recorded with just one sensor. This is optional, but many torque transducers already come with this ability. The most obvious parameter is rotational speed, which can be measured by transmitting light through a slotted disk on the rotor. As the sensor turns, the beam of light is interrupted at certain intervals. When the time window is constant, the rotational speed is calculated simply by counting the pulses.
One important characteristic of interest to many users is power, which can be calculated by multiplying the torque by the rotational speed.
In addition, many torque transducers have a built-in temperature sensor, which can tell us how much the sensor or drivetrain is heating up, for example.
Take a look at our torque measurement glossary to understand concepts such as accuracy class, temperature effect and relative reversibility error.
Torque can be measured statically or dynamically. An example of a dynamic measurement could be the pulsating torque generated when rotating elements are continually accelerated and then slowed down (or ‘braked’), or through the power stroke of an internal combustion engine. What’s more, dynamic torque can also occur completely without rotation. However, in most applications – such as engine test benches (internal combustion engine or electric motor) – dynamic torque occurs in connection with rotation.
Torque transducers are ideal for all kinds of engine, motor and drive tests in the field of research and development. Precise torque measurement is indispensable when you want to improve the efficiency of new drives, as it enables friction losses to be determined and minimized. In electric and hybrid motors, what matters is the range and improving efficiency; in hybrid and internal combustion engines, the key is always environmental friendliness through the lowest possible CO2 emissions.
Moreover, torque sensors are used in end-of-line tests on transmissions and engines or in function tests on rotary switches. However, some applications look entirely different such as when liquids are mixed and the process requires monitoring by a torque transducer. Or when torque sensors are installed in the powertrain of a ship. These transducers are also used as reference transducers in standard test machines.
HBK offers both torque measurement shafts and measurement flanges for a large variety of applications.
This will bring together HBM, Brüel & Kjær, nCode, ReliaSoft, and Discom brands, helping you innovate faster for a cleaner, healthier, and more productive world.
This will bring together HBM, Brüel & Kjær, nCode, ReliaSoft, and Discom brands, helping you innovate faster for a cleaner, healthier, and more productive world.
This will bring together HBM, Brüel & Kjær, nCode, ReliaSoft, and Discom brands, helping you innovate faster for a cleaner, healthier, and more productive world.
This will bring together HBM, Brüel & Kjær, nCode, ReliaSoft, and Discom brands, helping you innovate faster for a cleaner, healthier, and more productive world.
This will bring together HBM, Brüel & Kjær, nCode, ReliaSoft, and Discom brands, helping you innovate faster for a cleaner, healthier, and more productive world.
