The Challenge

A manufacturer of winch equipment required torque measurement of the pull head in a winch system. This was a floating shaft application where the shaft was supported by a cluster of gears on one end and by bearings on the other. Therefore, the shaft had a higher degree of freedom to move. In addition, the sensor operation was expected to withstand extreme temperature ranges from -40°F to 150°F. These are difficult operating parameters for most other torque sensing applications, but MDI’s durable non-contact sensor was well suited to provide the best solution.

The Solution

MDI designed a very low-cost collarless shaft for use with the winch. The application required an accuracy of under ± 2% which was achieved, and in addition the solution maintained consistent operation in extreme temperatures. MDI is currently designing a special torque indicator controller for this manufacturer which mounts on a dashboard so the operator can monitor and be alerted of any winch overload.