New web tension transducer design
Original article date: March 2000
A new design of web tension transducer can determine the true web force as well as the resultant angle
Available in ranges from 0-5,000lb to 0-20,000lb, the HTU web tension transducer from Nobel Systems utilises a two dimensional approach to web tension force measurement. The subject of a patent application, the technique allows both the true resultant web force and the resultant angle to be accurately determined.
The HTU transducer measures web tension forces applied across a roll, using integral horizontal and vertical axis sensors. Not only does the approach permit installation and measurement at any mounting angle or roll orientation, it also forms the basis of an expert diagnostics system that produces the highest level of web tension measurement confidence.
The HTU is machined from a high strength corrosion resistant stainless steel to yield a low profile single piece construction that incorporates tubular sensing sections at each end. Two full Wheatstone Bridges are mounted internally to each sensor and provide output signals in the X and Y planes that are externally, vectorially summed to determine the magnitude and direction of the resultant force. Each bridge is temperature compensated to 250degF, and dead weight calibrated to precision accuracy. The cylindrical sensing sections are sealed to meet IP67 requirements.
Environmental sealing ensures long term reliability in humid, wet or washdown locations.
Retrofit installations are simplified thanks to the low profile height of 36.8mm, resulting in a negligible change in the line profile. The HTU can be mounted directly to the framework with an optional pillow block adapter plate or it can accept top and bottom adapter plates.
HTU transducers are calibrated and certified with matched output signals to permit on-site pushbutton system calibration, providing minimum start-up time and maintenance-free operations.
Applications for the transducer include paper, plastics, roofing, metal strip forming and rubber forming machines. It will also offer benefits on mining conveyors.
- Nobel Systems
March 2000