Three Torque Measurement Parameters You Should Know

This article will explore some of the technical terms used in torque measurement, to provide clarity and transparency for a process of emerging importance.

Exploring the Technical Terms of Torque Measurement

The precision of torque measurement equipment is of increasing importance in power test stands and production monitoring applications, where efficiency is critical for meeting industrial sustainability efforts. It is broadly accepted that all industrial sectors must synchronously improve their mechanical power outputs and reduce environmental pollution. This demanding requirement can only be achieved by accurately monitoring the mechanical capacities of test bench equipment and processing components.

Torque Measurement Terminology

Torque is a mechanical quantity measured in clockwise or counterclockwise directions. This value is the primary concern for torque transducers and sensors in test bench and processing equipment, but these components are affected by numerous additional phenomena that can cause errors in measuring accuracy. Relative reversibility error, repeatability, and linearity – deviation including hysteresis – are all extraneous issues affecting the efficiency of torque measurement systems. These should all be reduced/compensated to a minimum if necessary, particularly with high-level torque transducer values that affect the accuracy of the system. There are four specific terminologies used to define a transducer with direct regard to the mechanical capabilities of the component: nominal torque; maximum service torque; limit torque; and breaking torque.

The nominal torque (M_nom) defines the uppermost limit of a transducer where its specified tolerances are not exceeded by the measuring mechanism. This defines the component’s ideal range of mechanical tolerance and can be used to determine the accuracy of all influences that are related to full scale.
The maximum service torque defines the tolerable point of accuracy in the relationship between torque and the output signal. The specified values in the datasheet may be exceeded. Torque measurement systems can be used up to the maximum service value, but it is preferable to monitor output signals at points between nominal and maximum service torque values.
Limit torque and breaking torque refer to the absolute maximum capabilities of a torque transducer, respectively describing the point at which a torque measurement system will not suffer permanent damage and the point at which the transducer will be destroyed. These values can result in permanent variation in the properties of the equipment and mechanical component failure, with no guarantee of measuring accuracy.

Torque Measurement Systems from HBM

HBM is a world leader in the manufacture and supply of leading test equipment for a range of industrial applications. We supply torque measurement systems suitable for high-precision rugged use to support the ongoing global push towards improved sustainability. It is also important for us to share our extensive information with customers and readers. If you would like to explore more of the technical terms of torque measurement in more detail, browse our full glossary at your leisure. Alternatively, contact us if you would like information about our robust product range.