Feature

Torque sensor facilitates prototyping & development stages of electric motor

Ashwoods Electric Motors is a developer and manufacturer of advanced and innovative electric motors, produced on a large scale. In 2017, Ashwoods increased its workforce twofold and secured new premises with a new testing facility, equipped with multiple dynamometers where the motors are tested according to heavy-duty pre-set cycles, which are used for validation and performance testing.

04/02/2019 10:14:53

The facility also contains a vibration test rig, which is used for prototyping more efficient electric motors, which can be up to a third of the size and weight than traditional motor technologies.

To take electric motor designs from concept through simulation and prototype to production swiftly, the Ashwoods team is constantly benchmarking its products to match international standards on automated dynamometers, which are designed in-house. The team required a relatively small dynamometer torque sensor in a neat package, that could fit into its existing dynamometers, to test the longevity and failure modes of the electric motors.

A torque sensor is a crucial part of the dynamometer, as it allows accurate measurement of motor performance, providing data to easily calculate input/output power and efficiency. Testing electric motors with a wide range of power outputs ensures that they operate at optimal efficiency.

Read the full article in the February issue of DPA

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.