Application 312: Valve Torque Testing

Application Summary
Reaction torque sensors are often used as auditing and monitoring tools. This application utilises the TFF Series to measure the reaction torque required by an electric valve actuator/motor to operate a ball, plug, or butterfly valve.

Products in Use
FUTEK’s Reaction Torque Flange-to-Flange Sensor (TFF Series) paired with instrumentation (IAA Series analogue amplifiers, USB Solutions, and the IHH500 handheld display). View Product Details

How it Works
1.  In this application, a Reaction Torque Sensor is mounted between the electric valve actuator and valve housing.
2.  The valve stem passes freely through and does not make contact with the Reaction Torque Sensor.
3.  The TFF Series Reaction Torque Sensor measures the torsion/torque moments required by the valve actuator to operate the valve.
4.  The TFF Series measurements are then outputted to a digital display (IHH500), streamed to a PC using FUTEK’s USB solutions, or amplified with IAA series for using with PLCs and data acquisition devices.
5.  In addition, data can be viewed in real time and logged by operators using FUTEK’s SENSIT™ Test and Measurement Software.

If you like further information on any of the Futek  products used in this application and reside in Australia or New Zealand, please contact Metromatics on +61 7 3868 4255 or sales@metromatics.com.au  

For outside this area, contact FUTEK directly on +949 465 0900

TFF SERIES

Reaction Torque Flange-to-Flange Sensor

IAA SERIES

Analogue Amplifiers

USB SERIES

External High Resolution/Speed USB

Futek Application 102 | Bolt Fastening

Application Summary

FUTEK's Thru-Hole (Donut) Load Cells are major players when measuring the tightening of load directly. Our Thru-Hole Series (LTH) offers a variety of capacities and inner diameter sizes making it ideal for bolt fastening applications.

Products in Use

Thru-Hole/Donut Load Cell (LTH Series) paired with Instrumentation (USB Solutions, IPM650 Digital Display, IHH500 Handheld, or CSG110 Amplifier).

How it Works

1. FUTEK’s LTH Series offers several miniature load cells appropriate for this form of measurement testing.
2. In the above application, FUTEK's LTH load cell is installed between the bolt head and the nut, where it can measure the load as torque is applied.
3. Our engineers recommend including a hardened washer between the load cell and the nut to avoid high friction and maintain flatness on the Thru-Hole during tightening and untightening.
4. As the operator begins to fasten the bolt, the load cell will measure the force applied.
5. This data can be monitored throughout testing via FUTEK’s IPM650 Digital Display or IHH500 Handheld Display; or it can be streamed to a computer via FUTEK’s USB Solutions.
6. Operators and engineers can then review this data to verify whether or not they have reached the desired tension on the fastener, stud or bolt via SENSIT™ Test and Measurement Software.
7. Overall, the benefits of installing Thru-Hole type load cells into your assembly process include: avoiding damage to bearing surfaces, decreased problematic tightening of large bolts, ease in untightening, and simultaneous tightening improvements.
8. FUTEK created an online bolt torque calculator to better assist you.

This application note was provided by our supplier Futek.

For further information about the Futek products used in this application, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Metromatics   I    07 3868 4255   I   sales@metromatics.com.au