What to Look for in Strain Gauge Torque Measurement

In order to get a strain gauge torque measurement, mechanical machinery uses a transducer known as a load cell or load sensor. What this cell or sensor does is convert the mechanical force the machine is producing while in operation into an electrical signal that is output for a measurement reading. This is critical in most mechanical applications, because the torque must be monitored to ensure it isn’t too high. When looking for force transducer measurement for your mechanical applications, consider the following to ensure you acquire your desired results from the equipment.
 
Capacity
 
Your first consideration is how much capacity you actually need. Depending on the machinery in question, it may generate anywhere from 250 to 1 million pounds of torque, so your transducers must be able to generate readings that high when necessary under consistent and repetitive strain. They must be able to handle 1 million pounds of pressure if your machinery generates it. As such, the cells used for your strain gauge torque measurement must be designed for industrial applications. They must be rugged and capable of handling extreme fatigue.
 
Accuracy
 
It doesn’t matter if you are looking for low or high torque measurements or whether you work in the automotive or aerospace industry, your readings must be accurate. Your sensors must be built to comply with your industry’s specific standards to read and produce results as close to exact as possible. You cannot have an inaccurate reading, as this can damage the machinery significantly. Inaccurate readings can also cause machine failure, which is dangerous and even deadly. Make certain to purchase transducers designed to return accurate results every time.
 
Materials
 
Again, depending on your application, you may want transducers constructed from aluminum or stainless steel. Aluminum works well in machines that require lighter weight; steel works well in machines that can be heavy. For example, aerospace machinery needs to be lightweight, so aluminum may be the better choice, whereas heavy-duty construction equipment can be heavy without ramifications. In fact, the heavier it is, the sturdier it is, so stainless steel transducers might work better in this application. It really depends in what the cell or sensor is being installed.
 
Don’t take chances with substandard strain gauge torque measurement. Work with a professional manufacturing company that specializes in these cells and sensors for numerous industrial applications. When you have the right sensors for your machinery, you obtain accurate torque readings that prevent breakdowns and their resulting issues, including injury and loss of life.