AxialTQ Technical White Paper Details Comparative Testing
Recently, Interface put together a full comparison of our AxialTQ™ Torque Transducer measurement systems versus a competitor’s system that offers a DIN120, 1kNm capacity transducer. To view the complete details, read the new Interface technical white paper A Comparison of Torque Measurement Systems, authored by Jay Bradley, Interface Electrical Engineering Manager.
Here is a brief overview covering the crucial results of the comparison testing.
About AxialTQ Torque Transducer
Since 2018, the AxialTQ has redefined the category of torque measurement systems in terms of function, accuracy, and customizable compatibility. It’s a must have torque transducer for anyone working to minimize uncertainty when measuring anything that turns. It is specifically designed for the expanding torque measurement needs in fields that include the automotive industry, as well as the aerospace and industrial automation sectors.
At the heart of AxialTQ’s innovation is the rotor and high-precision sensing element technology, which when combined with the electronics component, produces industry-leading accuracy. This product is also fully customizable due to its ability to use simultaneous analog and digital outputs. This is key, as it enables real-time control and data collection. The flexible capability of the stator and output module mounting offers an infinite number of configurations to meet any application needs.
AxialTQ was designed and engineered by Interface in direct collaboration with end-users who shared their wish-lists for operational priorities, user profiles, design specifications, feature preferences, and real-world field challenges they wanted a solution to resolve.
The unique decision to implement an axial gap, as opposed to the industry standard radial gap, means there is minimized concern that the shaft, rotor and stator will make contact, significantly reducing the possibility of damaging the system.
Installation Overview
AxialTQ features a 120° stator coil giving it the ability to be mounted in several different orientations. While the full stator loop of the competing system must be carefully aligned with the rotor. AxialTQ’s large axial gap of up to 6mm and radial gap of up to 12mm also allows for small misalignments or rotor movement. The competing system has a small radial gap of 1mm and ±2mm when installed, providing less flexibility and durability. The stators of both the AxialTQ and the competing system have multicolor status LEDs that indicate proper alignment and data transmission.
Performance Testing and Validation
The tests found that both systems performed well and met their respective operating specifications. Some of the dynamic testing was performed only once due to time constraints. This testing also has a greater uncertainty of measurement because of the test setup.
In this comparison we tested the installation process, as well as performance for the following specifications:
- Zero balance stability
- Shunt calibration stability and repeatability
- Measurement repeatability
- Measurement non-linearity
- Measurement hysteresis
- Axial force crosstalk
- Zero balance over operating temperature
- Axial gradient temperature performance
Overall, both systems performed in line with specifications. Areas in which the AxialTQ stood out included change in zero-balance readings, performance in operating temperature ranges, and in the in-house spin testing cycles.
Configuration Advantages
Unlike the competing system, the AxialTQ has one analog voltage or current output, two analog frequency outputs, and a digital serial output which are all active and independently scalable and filtered. This means that by applying different scaling to two different outputs, the AxialTQ can operate like a dual range sensor.
Durability
AxialTQ also has a significant advantage in durability. The large axial (up to 6mm) and radial (typically 12 mm) gaps between the rotor and stator make it highly unlikely that the rotor will contact the stator because of harmonic vibration, torque pulse or some other event. Both the rotor and stator coils of the AxialTQ are fabricated from 0.125in (3.18mm) thick FR4, with any conductors located at least 0.05in (1.27mm) from the edge. If damaged, these coils are easily replaced in the factory.
AxialTQ is innovative alternative to current systems and includes creative solutions to overcome some of the challenges that diminish performance in these systems as well. To learn more about go to our AxialTQ product page.
Additional Resources
Recap of Latest Spin on AxialTQ Webinar
