Torque Metering Systems
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Riverhawk, the leading innovator and developer of the on-shaft Torque Metering System, has a leading edge digital design using Hall-Effect sensor technology and strain gage bridges for unparalleled reliability in harsh environments. We are the world's only supplier of strain gage based torque measurement systems for high performance couplings. Strain gages are a proven technology and provide the most accurate way of measuring torque. They are the only way to obtain an instantaneous torque value.
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Using proven components and thermal calibration, the output is not affected by coupling temperature changes. Since the torque measurement and temperature compensation are done within a span of a few inches on the shaft, the accuracy is not affected by temperature differentials typically seen across couplings. Competitors may calibrate over temperature, but they cannot compensate for a temperature differential across the coupling. We can calibrate our couplings in a static test stand (not rotating), so we can very accurately measure the torque and verify repeatability. The combination of lower cost and better performance makes the Riverhawk Torque Meter Systems a wise choice.
Torque Meter Applications
- Processing Compressors
- Pipeline Compressors
- Refrigeration Compressors
- Feed Water Pumps
- Test Stands
- Ship Drives
Torque Meter Advantages
The advantage of the Riverhawk Torque Meter System, besides its high accuracy (within 1% full scale at temperatures below 250°F) and adaptability, is its suitability for high and low speeds. (The use of the Heat Balance Test, normally used in defining power produced by the machinery with an accuracy of 5%, when used in conjunction with the Riverhawk Torque Meter System will allow the user to define the optimum operating range in machinery under any plant operating condition.
- Works with most available couplings on the market with minor modifications, eliminating the need for coupling redesign
- Less complicated coupling design
- Temperature compensation of the unique “on-shaft” electronics reduces error in readings due to temperature variations and temperature gradients across the coupling; bonded strain gage bridges provide reliable linear torque signals
- The use of two rotary transformers, one supplying power to the electronics and the other transmitting the signals from the shaft precludes any need for bearings or slip rings to be used with the system
- Savings derived from increased machinery efficiency may generate a quick payback while providing insurance against failures in equipment being monitored
Benefits of Riverhawk Torque Metering Systems
- Reduced weight compared to other systems; minimal weight suspended by coupling due to strain gage technology
- Less sensitive to coupling guard deflections
- Superior with respect to the effects on balance and natural frequency compared to other torque metering technologies
- No gear teeth to generate windage and heat in coupling guard
Reliability
- Redundant systems, Two Independent Systems
- Specific calibration for each individual system
- Customer support world wide for installation supervision
Service
- Thorough calibrations for our torque metering systems
- Quick turn around on in-house recalibration
- Expert customer support
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Torque and 'Real-Time' Alignment Systems
- Currently the only product on the market capable of supplying a misalignment indication while machine is in operation and the shaft is rotating
- Measures actual shaft position, not case movement
- Provides live information on the state of the coupling, which is useful for condition monitoring and assists in the evaluation of the coupling and bearing loading
- Continuous monitoring of the equipment will enable operators to recognize performance deterioration, which may reduce efficiency or cause a catastrophic shutdown
Alternate Torque Metering Designs
TMS4500 Torque Metering System for Ship Board Applications
System Description
The TMS 4500 is a system for monitoring torque, speed, and power. The system consists of a Torque Sensor/Transmitter, Torque/Speed Receiver, Processor, and Display. Two Torque Sensor/Transmitters and Torque/Speed Receivers can be installed for two shaft applications. Two Displays can be included for local and remote monitoring.
Torque Sensor/Transmitter
The Sensor/Transmitter is a disc or collar mounted on the shaft. It is powered inductively by the Receiver, senses the torque via strain gages connected to it, and transmits a torque signal back to the Receiver.
Torque/Speed Receiver
The Receiver is mounted below the shaft and has a ring that surrounds the Sensor/Transmitter. It provides power to the Sensor/Transmitter, receives the torque signal, senses rotating speed, and provides outputs to the Processor. The electronics are enclosed in a painted steel NEMA 4 enclosure with mounting ears. Riverhawk will specify the mounting bracket requirements and the customer must provide the mounting bracket.
Torque/Speed/Power Processor
The Processor provides power to and receives signals form the Receiver, converts the raw signals to calibrated values, calculates power, and provides display information to the Monitors. The Processor is housed in a fiberglass NEMA 4 enclosure. It has integrated mounting ears. The customer must provide a prepared mounting surface.
Monitor
The display is a Quarter VGA color LCD touch-screen with a display area that is 4.6 wide by 3.5 high. The LCD mounting frame is 7.7 wide by 5.7 tall. It is housed in a fiberglass NEMA 4 enclosure that is held within a U shaped bracket by two large clamping knobs. The bracket can be mounted on a horizontal or vertical surface and allows the monitor to be tilted for optimal viewing angle. The Monitor displays torque, speed, power, and power imbalance as values and horizontal bar graphs.
TMS4100 Torque Metering System to Measure Shaft Performance in any Application
System Description
The TMS 4100 is a system for monitoring torque, speed, and power. The system consists of a Torque Sensor/Transmitter, a Torque/Speed Receiver, and a Monitor.
Torque Sensor/Transmitter
The Sensor/Transmitter is a disc or collar mounted on the shaft. It is powered inductively by the Receiver, senses the torque via strain gages connected to it, and transmits a torque signal back to the Receiver.
Torque/Speed Receiver
The Receiver is mounted below the shaft and has a ring that surrounds the Sensor/Transmitter. It provides power to the Sensor/Transmitter, receives the torque signal, senses rotating speed, and provides outputs to the Monitor. The electronics are enclosed in a painted steel NEMA 4 enclosure with mounting ears. Riverhawk will specify the mounting bracket requirements and the customer will provide the mounting bracket.
Monitor
The Monitor provides power to and receives signals from the Receiver, converts the raw signals to calibrated values, calculates power, displays information, and provides 4-20mA outputs for torque and speed. It is housed in a 19 Rack Mounted Enclosure. The display is a Quarter VGA color LCD touch-screen with a screen area that is 4.6 wide by 3.5 high. The Monitor will display torque, speed, and power as values and horizontal bar graphs. It will also display the following at a minimum: Average Torque, Peak Torque, and Running Peak Torque. The unit may also provide (Riverhawk option) AC RMS Torque and AC Peak-Peak Torque. The Average Torque will always be displayed and the display of other available values will be selectable.
SDM 100 - Shaft Disconnect Monitor
System Description
The SDM 100 is a system for monitoring the condition of any shaft disconnect device that employs a clutch, shear pins, or other release mechanism, such as the Riverhawk Torque Blocker. The system consists of two proximity sensors and a Monitor. The two sensors detect the presence of indentations on the rotating device, one on the input section and one on the output section. The system provides a contact closure output and a 4-20mA output for annunciation or input to a PLC or DCS. As it is desired to maintain a relatively large gap between the rotating device and the sensors, eddy-current sensors have been utilized.