Like balances and scales, dynamometers are measuring devices generally used in overhead weighing applications. But what they measure is quite different. Commonly called ‘dynos’ or ‘dynas’ for short, these devices are essential to a wide variety of industries. Today, we will give you a brief overview of dynamometers. We will cover what they are, and provide a few examples of their application.
Dynamometers are useful in the utility, construction, and recreation industries—just to name a few. Here’s what they do.
What are dynamometers?
Like with so many other technical terms, a basic familiarity with Latin or Greek can help you determine what dynamometers are. The term dynamometer has its roots in two Greek words. The first of these, ‘dunamis,’ means ‘power.’ The second means ‘measure.’
This encapsulates exactly what dynamometers do: they measure power. Originally, they did so by combining torque and angular speed. While this is the general idea behind dynos, they have evolved to have a wide range of applications, such as measuring weight and tension. Like all weighing equipment, they require regular calibration and upkeep.
Now, let’s move onto some industries that employ dynamometers today.
What Industries Use Dynamometers?
Dynamometers are necessary for more industries than you would believe. Some form of dyno is used in just about every industry you could imagine. Today, we will focus specifically on the sectors that make use of tension dynamometers.
Utilities. The most well-known manufacturer of tension dynos, Dillon, originally developed their device to measure tension on telephone wires. They remain in regular use in the utility industry today.
Bridge construction. Some of the most famous bridges in the world are suspension bridges. These include the Golden Gate and Manhattan Bridges. If you know anything about how this sort of bridge is engineered, you know they rely on tension. The entirety of the load ends up as tension on the cables. They are often engineered with the help of tension dynamometers.
Elevators. While the cutting edge of elevator technology uses pressure to move the car, they have traditionally operated using cables. Dynamometers have been used to balance the tensions between numerous different elevator cables at once.
Recreation. If you’ve ever ridden a ski lift, you should know that this technology is often regulated with the use of tension dynamometers. Not just that—engineers have made use of tension dynos to ensure the safety of nets that protect skiers from avalanches and rockfalls.
CALIBRATION, SERVICING and RENTALS
The Scale People offers ISO calibration for all brands of dynamometers and crane scales. We offer expedited services and a full rental fleet to keep your business up and running.
CONTACT THE SCALE PEOPLE FOR YOUR DYNAMOMETER NEEDS TODAY!
Since 1956, The Scale People have earned a reputation as the finest service provider for calibration and repairs of measuring equipment in the mid-Atlantic area. Our sales team can help work with you to find the best weighing equipment for your application. Founded in Washington D.C., we have since expanded to offer our services in the states of Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and nationwide. Over the years, we have built up a long list of satisfied clients from a wide variety of industries, including pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and government manufacturing. We are a fully ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited service company. All of our services have a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We’re only a phone call away at +1 (800) 451-9593. To learn more about what we do, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.