For many years we have worked within the green energy market, providing our unique torque measurement products to structures like wind turbines for improving predictive maintenance practices. More recently though we have been developing our relationship with Spiralis Energy who have been developing a novel generation system for another form of eco energy… tidal energy.
Spiralis Energy is a tidal energy system developer founded on the Isle of Wight who have developed a generation system known as the Axial Skelter which is simple to manufacture and repair while retaining excellent power generation properties thanks to its patent-pending design. At present, they have just concluded the testing of their first demonstrator, achieving very promising results. This has meant they have been able to commence development of their second-generation system as they move closer to providing sustainable and reliable energy for everyone. The aforementioned results were only possible thanks to the use of our RS425 Torque Transducer.
“Research into the industry leaders for torque measuring equipment led us to Datum who were incredibly helpful throughout the acquisition process, proving a detailed consultation on the best equipment to use, and working diligently to ensure it was all delivered to meet our very tight timelines.
The RS425 was vital to the success of our system as it allowed us to plot accurately our torque and power outputs. Throughout our installation and trials process, Datum was on hand to provide troubleshooting and advise us on how to get the most accurate results possible.”
George Illovy, Spiralis Energy
Testing for success
Through connecting to a PTO system and with the RS425 sensor attached the team at Spiralis Energy were able to generate torque and work out exactly how much power the Axial Skelter could produce. The information was easily accessible through our Datum Connect App which gives the user data logging in real-time to produce clean test results. With this in hand they were able to compare the data that they received with the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) data that they had already generated in the lab to match. The data was very close to what they thought they were going to achieve which resulted in a very successful test.
Why use the RS425?
The Datum Electronics RS425 contactless torque transducer has been designed to fit easily in line with any drive-train or test rig, using either a spline or key-way shaft. This type of torque sensor has many advantages over other torque measurement systems, including zero bearing friction, high speed and high torque applications. The sensor is built for harsh environments and IP upgradable to suit customer needs like this. It is easy to fit and connects with our Datum Connect App to offer seamless live data straight to your fingertips.
To find out more and see the Axial Skelter in action, check out the video of the test day below:
“We would absolutely recommend the equipment and support provided by Datum and if we need any similar solutions to continue our development, we will not look anywhere else. Thank you, Datum!”
George Illovy, Spiralis Energy