Interesting facts about torque sensors
What is torque and how is it measured?
Torque describes the rotational effect of a force and is a key physical quantity in drive technology. It is generated when a force acts on a lever arm and is measured in newton metres (Nm). Torque is measured using specialized sensors that detect mechanical deformation and convert it into electrical signals.
What is torque measurement used for in practice?
Torque measurements are used to accurately determine forces in rotating or stationary systems. Typical applications include test benches, quality assurance, tightening processes, as well as development and testing environments. The aim is to monitor and optimize processes and ensure reproducible results.
How accurate is torque measurement using modern sensors?
The accuracy of modern torque sensors depends on their design, measuring range, and operating conditions. High-quality systems enable highly precise and reproducible measurement results across the entire measuring range. Regular calibration is recommended to ensure long-term measurement stability.
What role does calibration play in torque sensors?
Calibration ensures that a torque sensor provides accurate measurements in accordance with applicable standards. In industrial environments, it is essential for quality assurance and the comparability of measurement results. Depending on the duration and intensity of use, regular recalibration should be scheduled.
What factors can distort measurement results?
Various factors can affect the accuracy of torque measurements. These include mechanical stresses, temperature changes, electromagnetic interference (EMC), and suboptimal installation conditions. Proper integration and correct system design are therefore essential.
How is a torque sensor integrated into a system?
Depending on the application, integration is carried out using various mechanical interfaces, such as shaft ends, square drives, or flange connections. In addition, electrical signals and interfaces must be integrated into existing control or data acquisition systems.
What types of signals are used in torque measurement technology?
In practice, various output signals are used. These include analog signals such as voltage or current, as well as frequency-based signals. The choice depends on how the signals are processed further in control systems, measurement systems, or test benches.
When is it appropriate to measure torque and other parameters simultaneously?
In many applications, torque is not considered in isolation. Additional measured variables, such as rotational speed, angle of rotation, or power, enable a more comprehensive analysis of drives and processes. This is particularly relevant for test benches and efficiency analyses.
What is particularly important when choosing a measurement system?
The selection of a suitable system depends largely on the specific measurement task. In addition to the measuring range, factors such as mechanical integration, environmental conditions, signal processing, and system compatibility also play a crucial role. Application-specific system design is therefore essential.
Can measuring systems be customised?
Many applications require customized solutions that go beyond standard products. Individual adaptations may include the design, interfaces, or measuring ranges, enabling optimal integration into existing systems.
Do you have any questions about your measurement task?
Not every application can be addressed with a one-size-fits-all solution. The selection and integration of torque and force measurement technology depends heavily on the specific requirements – from the measuring range and installation conditions to signal processing and environmental conditions.
Our team supports you in designing and implementing the right solution for your application.
What is the difference between ‘active’ and ‘passive’ in relation to torque sensors?
In the “passive” configuration, the measuring shaft provides an unamplified measurement signal directly from the measuring bridge.
Our GMV2 and ValueView evaluation units are suitable for processing this signal.
In the “active” configuration, an amplifier is connected downstream of the measuring shaft. The measurement signal is amplified.
This is the most common application.
In this configuration, all evaluation units with a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) can be used. We recommend our GMV2, ValueMaster, and ValueView evaluation units.