A tool that not many are familiar with, but that is incredibly useful to perform a number of operations is a dynamometer. A dynamometer is a load-indicating instrument used to measure the power, torque, and force of an engine, motor pumps, generators, or other rotating prime movers.
The design of all
dynamometers varies by their intended function. While some dynamometers are compact in size, others are rather large. What stays the same is that most dynamometers are battery-operated and come with a digital interface. Additionally, beyond their distinctive degree of accuracy, they are composed of strong metal alloys that can handle a considerable amount of weight. Moreover, the average dynamometer contains an absorption unit that is made up of a rotor inside. The piece of equipment or machinery that is being tested is attached to the rotor, which allows it to rotate freely at the required speed.
In the construction industry, a dynamometer is used to measure the tension of an object. For example, with the use of tension dynamometers, workers have the ability to
mount cables for bridges and modify the tension of an object.
The dynamometer, however, is not limited to testing for the power points of a vehicle or the tension of an object. In fact, this versatile device has several applications. There are four basic kinds of dynamometers with different functions: monitoring, tension, absorption, and universal.
A monitoring dynamometer can determine the power needed to operate a machine, while a tension dynamometer can be used to measure the level of force an object can withstand before collapsing. Next, an absorption dynamometer has the ability to measure the operating torque - an engine’s rotational force - by absorbing the energy it supplies. And lastly, a universal dynamometer performs the dual functions of both the monitoring and absorption dynamometers.
A dynamometer is a multi-purpose tool that can be used in a variety of industries, but is especially vital to the rigging and lifting industry.
Benefits of Dynamometers in Rigging and Lifting
When it comes to the use of a dynamometer in the rigging and
lifting industry, there are four applications that riggers and crane operators find helpful.
Dynamometers are especially useful during a chain lift load-drifting exercise by reading the tension to help prevent equipment overload. While the rigger is posed with the responsibility of determining the worst-case drifting situation, the dynamometer helps the rigger stay in the intended parameters.
When using a crane, a rigger is forced to stand a load up from a horizontal position. If the dynamometer is attached to the crane’s hook, this will reduce the tension as the lineman lifts to adapt the cargo tilt up. Being able to observe the tension as it declines will help the crew align a “step block” on time. Similarly, when training crane operators, a crane-hook suspended dynamometer is beneficial. The peak-hold function on a dynamometer prompts the operator to lift the load, move it horizontally, and lower it down. This function also logs the highest captured reading on the dynamometer tool since it was last cleared. This can help the trainee manage acceleration, deceleration, and speed.
During demolition work and disassembly, a dynamometer is beneficial. If a crew is able to determine the weight of a motor and gearbox on a bolted and grounded base, the dynamometer tool can be placed between the crane hook and the cargo rigging to relieve the strain from the apparatus. More than that, the dynamometer provides the rigging crew with live tension readings. These readings can alert the team when the rate of tension surpasses the recognized weight. This gives the crew an opportunity to detach the base from its mounting location.
Advantages of Using Dynameters at a Lifting or Rigging Job Site
There are a number of advantages to using a dynamometer at a lifting or rigging job site. More than the cost effectiveness, it ensures safety on the job site, reduces potential damage to objects and machinery, and provides accurate and reliable measurements for operators and riggers.
Additionally, dynamometers can accurately gauge whether an engine is running properly, making the best use of its fuel or wasting it, as well as letting you determine if adjustments need to be made. Since the readouts provided by a dynamometer are accurate and precise, you can trust that your machinery is running to the best of its ability.
If you are in search of a dynamometer that works for you, ASAP-AOG can provide superior dynamometer tool parts, lifting parts, or other various rigging parts for every application. ASAP-AOG is owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, the leading distributor of
electronic components of all types, ranging from integrated circuits to semiconductors, and everything in between. ASAP Semiconductor is an FAA AC 00-56B accredited and ISO 9001:2015 certified enterprise. For a quick and competitive quote, email sales@asapaog.com, we are available 24/7x365.
