ROVs were developed in 1960s and used by US Navy to perform deep-sea rescue operations and recover objects, such as lost bombs, from the ocean. Despite the fact that they have been with us for less than half a decade, technological development of ROV vehicles has come a long way.
Sperre As is a company in Norway that specialises in providing customised ROV solutions for inshore and offshore use. Their different models of ROVs and TMSs (Tether Management Systems) are used in initial subsea construction, as well as subsequent repair and maintenance of subsea structures, pipelines, etc. Their products are also utilised in a number of military applications, particularly in minehunting and minebreaking. Apart from that, ROVs are working for archaeological and scientific purposes and contribute to the discovery of new species of ocean plants and animals. Since the nature of applications is so vast and varied, ROVs from Sperre As use VSD where speed can be adjusted, based on a specific application need.
To prove improved control over VSD, verifying that new algorithms are working properly, is of crucial importance and can be done with the help of accurate torque measurement of the drive. Thus, Sperre As in need of a highly accurate measurement solution. In addition, the solution had to have an ability to show torque and speed on a digital display and, due to the system compatibility, have a digital RS-232 or Ethernet Interface. As all Datum Series 425 inline torque sensors are compatible with the optional Datum Universal Interface, Sperre As decided to use the Datum Measurement Solution for their trials.
As a result of continuous testing, the Sperre As team was able to tune the open loop U/F curves to work optimally for a given load (torque) for optimising U/F controls in old drives, increasing their efficiency. Even though tests are still in a very early stage, the company was able to significantly improve motor control tuning. Their current progress shows there is a lot of potential for the new VSD system to enter the market as an innovative product, allowing their clients to maximise their competitive advantage.
You can read the full case study here: Sperre As: Measuring Torque To Improve Motor Performance & Efficiency Algorithms
Looking for an opportunity to increase the efficiency of electrical and mechanical equipment or enhance its operational longevity or save money? Our M425 Torque Transducers is designed to fit most applications and solutions requiring rotary and static torque and power measurement, give our team a call on 01983 28 28 34 or drop us an email to: web@datum-electronics.co.uk