Annual Buyers Guide

monitoring, they were a very cost effective choice for this application.” The TorqSense units are a new type of sensor based on patented technology that makes use of surface acoustic wave transducers. These transducers comprise two thin metal electrodes, in the form of interlocking “fingers”, on a piezoelectric substrate such as quartz. When an RF signal of the correct frequency is applied to the transducer, surface acoustic waves are set up, and the transducer behaves as a resonant circuit. The essential feature, however, is that if the substrate is deformed, the resonant frequency changes. When the transducer is attached to a drive shaft, the deformation of the substrate and hence the change in resonant frequency is related to the torque applied to the shaft. In other words, the transducer, in effect, becomes a frequency-dependent strain gauge. Since the transducers operate at radio frequencies, it is easy to couple signals to them wirelessly. Hence, TorqSense sensors that incorporate the SAW transducer technology can be used on rotating shafts, and can provide data continuously without the need for the inherently unreliable brushes and slip rings that are often found in traditional torque measurement systems. “Adrian Lowe, test laboratory manager at Bristan, commented: “Our previous test rig, while fit for purpose, didn’t allow for such thorough and accurate testing. The new rig is an invaluable tool in ensuring that we continue to maintain the high quality for which our products are known, and also for helping us develop new and groundbreaking products in the future.” of “stiffness” is reached. While the design of the new test rig was in many respects straightforward, ADI did face one particular challenge – how to measure the torque developed by the drive system accurately and in real time, so that the stopping points could be determined. Preliminary investigations revealed that typical torque sensors were far too bulky to accommodate in a reasonably sized test rig, and also that they were incapable of delivering accurate results over the range required – from 1.5 Nm to 3.0 Nm. In addition, most of the torque sensors had non-optional speed monitoring functions built in, which increased costs even though they were not required for this application. After further research, however, ADI discovered the TorqSense range of sensors from Sensor Technology. “These versatile sensors were exactly what we needed,” said Jeff Lowe of ADI. “They’re tiny, so they were easy to accommodate on the test rig, they’re dependable, and they provide very accurate results in real time, even at the very low torque levels we are interested in. Also, because they’re not tied to unnecessary extras like speed 30 | Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk Annual Buyers’ Guide 2020 Process, Controls & Plant Focus on: Sensors & Measurement THE LOW COST AND ENERGY EFFICIENT ALTERNATIVE TO AIR CONDITIONING Save up to 90% on your operational costs and reduce your capital spend by 40%. Proven, versatile solutions to suit your requirements. 100% fresh air solution, no refrigeration. data centres factory printing gym retail telecom warehouse Book your free site visit. +44 (0)1284 810 586 www.ecocooling.co.uk sales@ecocooling.co.uk Contact: Ian Atkinson on +44 (0)1732 370340 ian.atkinson@dfamedia.co.uk Di rect E-CAMPAIGN LIST RENTAL LEASE TARGET YOURBUYERS FROM OVER 60,000 QUALIFIED CONTACTS