Measuring torque by dynamometers, straingauge, transducers — Lesson 2

This lesson covers the concept of torque measurement using a dynamometer, a crucial aspect in the field of fluid mechanics. It delves into the role of a dynamometer, the challenges associated with it, and its importance in measuring torque in the context of internal combustion engines and hydraulic turbines. The lesson also explains the principle of measuring torque using a dynamometer and discusses the operational principle of a prony brake, a type of dynamometer. It further highlights the potential sources of error in power measurement using a prony brake and other popular absorption dynamometers like water or air brake.

Video Highlights

01:30 - Importance of torque measurement in the context of internal combustion engines and hydel power plants
03:14 - Dynamometer and its role in measuring shaft power
09:10- Constructional feature of a dynamometer
19:53 - Operational principle of the prony brake
30:10 - Difficulties and sources of errors in power measurement using a prony brake
44:56 - Other popular absorption dynamometers - the water and air brake

Key Takeaways

- Torque measurement is a critical aspect in fluid mechanics, particularly in the context of internal combustion engines and hydraulic turbines.
- A dynamometer plays a significant role in measuring torque. The prony brake, a type of dynamometer, is commonly used for this purpose.
- The operational principle of a prony brake involves adjusting the amount of friction produced by a tension belt, resulting in a torque balanced by a force at the end of a moment arm.
- There are potential sources of error in power measurement using a prony brake, including frictional heating and the wetting of the outer surface of the flywheel.
- Other popular absorption dynamometers include water or air brakes, which operate on the same principle as the prony brake but produce torque using fluid forces rather than friction.