Product FAQs

M425
RS425
FF425
PTO Connect
LTS
Auger Hawk
Strain Gauge Sensors
Shaft Power Meter
Shaft Power Measurement Kit
Custom Strain Gauges

Support FAQs

Datum Connect

General Purpose & Application FAQs

General Torque
EEXI
Helical Screw Piling

FAQs: Product Information

Datum M425
Torque Transducer

  • The M425 Torque Transducer by Datum Electronics delivers ±0.1% accuracy, with non-linearity of ±0.1% FSD and non-repeatability of ±0.05% FSD.

  • The M425 Torque Transducer from Datum Electronics has a torque measurement range from 0-10 N·m up to 30,000 N·m as standard, with higher ratings available on request.

  • The M425 Torque Transducer by Datum Electronics is deployed in a wide variety of settings and applications. Popular uses include motor, gearbox, drivetrain, and pump torque testing, R&D and product development, electronic vehicles, research, performance diagnostics and a range of industrial rotating machinery.

  • The M425 Torque Transducer by Datum Electronics can provide digital sample rates from 1-100 samples per second (SPS) with higher rates available on request. Analogue output from 20-100 SPS.

Datum RS425
Torque Transducer

  • The RS425 Torque Transducer from Datum Electronics has a torque measurement range from 0-10 N·m up to 30,000 N·m as standard, with higher ratings available on request.

  • The Datum RS425 Torque Sensor is designed to fit in-line with any drive train or test rig, using a spline or a key-way shaft.  It offers zero bearing friction and is suitable for both high speed and high torque installation.

  • The RS425 Torque Transducer by Datum Electronics delivers ±0.1% accuracy, with non-linearity of ±0.1% FSD and non-repeatability of ±0.05% FSD.

Datum FF425
Torque Transducer

  • You can use existing components to become an accurate inline torque transducer, Datum Electronics FF425 transducers are a range of flanged coupling spacer transducers that can replace your existing coupling spacers and give you real time accurate Torque, Speed and Power data from our standard range.  Our specialist team can even work with you and the existing spacers that you have and turn these into Torque Transducers.  With Datum Connect you can use your smart phone or smart device to wireless view and log accurate Torque, Speed and Power seamlessly.

PTO Connect
Power Takeoff Torque & Power Monitoring System

  • The PTO425 Torque and Power Monitor is installed inline between the tractor’s power takeoff shaft and your attachment, allowing you to measure the true shaft power. Using the Datum Link app, the PTO425 connects over Wi-Fi to capture and report live shaft measurements including torque, speed (RPM), and shaft power.

Auger Hawk
Helical Screw Pile Torque Monitor

  • A helical screw pile torque sensor measures the torque applied during installation, helping contractors ensure the pile is installed to the correct depth and can handle the required load.

    The Auger Hawk Helical Screw Pile Torque Sensor takes this to the next level by providing real-time data on:

    • Torque

    • Thrust

    • RPM (rotations per minute)

    • Depth

    • GPS location

    • Angle

    This comprehensive data gives contractors precise control over the installation process, ensuring accuracy and efficiency every step of the way.

  • The Auger Hawk Helical Screw Pile Torque Sensor provides numerous benefits that directly improve your project outcomes:

    • Improved Accuracy: With precise measurements of torque, RPM, and depth, you can be confident that every pile is installed to the exact specifications. This reduces errors, avoids costly rework, and ensures structural integrity.

    • Enhanced Efficiency: Faster and more precise installations mean your projects stay on schedule, allowing you to take on more jobs and reduce downtime.

    • Cost Savings: By optimising installation, you save on labour, fuel, and equipment wear, making your operations more cost-effective in the long run.

    • Increased Safety: Real-time monitoring helps detect potential problems like over-torquing or unstable conditions, reducing the risk of accidents and equipment damage.

    • Better Quality Control: You can verify that every pile meets the required standards, giving you and your clients peace of mind about the durability and performance of the foundation.

    • Data Logging and Reporting: Detailed logs and reports make it easier to provide clients with documentation for compliance, warranty claims, or future maintenance, showcasing professionalism and accountability.

    By using the Auger Hawk Torque Sensor, you not only streamline your installation process but also ensure better outcomes for your clients, improve safety, and build long-term trust in your services.

  • Auger Hawk offers a comprehensive suite of features to optimise helical pile installation:

    • Torque Measurement: Accurately measures torque to ensure proper pile installation and integrity.

    • Thrust Measurement: Monitors the force applied during installation to prevent damage to the pile or equipment.

    • Speed Measurement: Tracks RPM to identify changes in ground conditions and optimise drilling speed.

    • Data Logging: Records essential data, including torque, thrust, RPM, depth, angle, and GPS location, for analysis and quality control.

    • Rotations Tracking: Counts the number of rotations to monitor pile insertion progress.

    • Depth Measurement: Tracks the depth of pile installation, allowing for accurate record-keeping.

    • GPS Location Tracking: Records the precise GPS location of each pile installation.

    • Angle Measurement: Continuously monitors the angle of installation to ensure proper alignment.

    • Advanced technology: Our sensor utilises state-of-the-art technology for superior accuracy and reliability.

    • User-friendly interface: Easy-to-use software for intuitive operation.

    • Durable and reliable: Designed to withstand harsh job site conditions.

    • Customisable solutions: Tailored to meet the specific needs of your project.

460 Series
Strain Gauge Sensors

  • Datum’s bolt-on strain gauge and measurement sensors have been developed to suit the harshest of environments – they are robust and water-resistant, and can be installed without soldering or special adhesives

  • Datum Electronics’ range of bolt-on strain measurement sensors are regularly used in industrial applications such as Silo Weighing, Tank Weighing, Hopper Weighing, Bunker Weighing, Bin Weighing, Container Weight Verification and Onboard Vehicle Weighing

  • Yes – our 3-hole bolt-on strain gauge can provide temperature compensation, along with a live continuous data stream to a vehicle’s systems

  • Common reasons why Datum Electronics is commissioned to design and supply custom bolt-on strain sensors include specific IP ratings, bespoke integration methods, unusual physical package design and so on

SPM
Shaft Power Meter

  • Datum’s range of marine shaft power meters have been designed specifically to meet the requirements of commercial marine customers to provide real time and ongoing power monitoring data on ships. With a modular design suitable for shafts of varying sizes from 150mm to over 1100mm, these maintenance-free contactless devices are extremely reliable.

  • Datum Electronics’ marine shaft power meters can be specified to work with all common supply voltage standards, for example single or triple-phase AC at 110-230V, or 12/24V DC.  They all have IP67 envioronmental sealing and can operate at a wide range of temperatures from -15 to +80 celsius

  • A typical installation and commissioning cycle takes 1-2 days and there is no further calibration required.

SPMK
Shaft Power Measurement Kit

  • The Datum SPMK measures shaft torque and rotational speed directly on a rotating shaft, with shaft power calculated in real time using the supplied software. This provides true mechanical power measurement under actual operating conditions.

  • Yes. The SPMK is specifically designed for temporary and repeat installations. It can be fitted to an existing shaft without permanent modification and removed once testing is complete, making it suitable for trials, inspections, and short‑term measurement campaigns.

  • Many ship owners and operators want to verify whether their engine is delivering the expected power, especially when diagnosing performance issues or looking to improve fuel efficiency.

    The Datum SPMK can be installed directly onto the propeller shaft in under 30 minutes, taking up minimal space. The simple kit allows end users to quickly and accurately measure shaft power with ease.

  • Yes, the core hardware is reusable apart from consumables and strain gauges.

    Dave Wheatley
    Answer provided by Dave Wheatley

  • This can be achieved using the Datum SPMK, a temporary shaft power measurement kit that installs directly onto the vessel’s propulsion shaft, with the test data logged and stored for use as evidence.

    The SPMK system is designed to be easily installed by the end user in under 30 minutes, then quickly removed again after running an engine test to full power and logging the results in kW.  The Datum SPMK generates test results accepted by the MCA, MSEVT and many other EU fishery agencies for the purposes of fishing vessel licencing.

  • This can be done temporarily using a temporary shaft power measurement system which installs direct to the propulsion shaft and running engine tests to full power.  The data can be logged and stored as evidence.  The Datum Electronics Shaft Power Measurement Kit is the kit of choice by many EU fishery agencies and is simple, easy to install to prove your engine power unobtrusively and without the need of a team of technicians as it has been designed to be installed direct by customer.  The SPMK system can be installed in less than 30 minutes and removed from shaft after your tests are done with a log file for you to keep.

  • There is only a minimum diameter of Ø 30 mm that we recommend.

    For larger shafts you need to consider the consumables that you have in stock to affix the hardware to the shaft – for example the main restraining equipment is the fibre weave tape, so you’ll want to make sure there is enough to secure the hardware onto that shaft diameter.

     

    Dave Wheatley
    Answer provided by Dave Wheatley

Custom & OEM
Strain Gauge Sensors

  • Yes – for many years we have been working with companies large and small across the globe to design, prototype and deliver strain gauge measurement solutions

  • Common reasons why Datum Electronics is commissioned to design and supply custom bolt-on strain sensors include specific IP ratings, bespoke integration methods, unusual physical package design and so on

  • Datum Electronics provides high-quality, cost-effective products in volume, built to your specific requirements for your unique application

LTS
Large Torque Sensor

  • The LTS (Large Torque Sensor) is a high-precision torque measurement system designed to accurately measure torques ranging from 40kNm to 500kNm. It’s ideal for industries and applications requiring precise torque measurement, such as heavy machinery, mining vehicles and industrial drilling.

  • The LTS uses strain gauge technology within a rotary shaft design to measure torsional deformation and convert it into an electrical signal representing torque.

  • The LTS (Large Torque Sensor) offers several key features:

      • High accuracy: 0.1% electronics accuracy

      • Flexible digital sample rates: Up to 1,000sps

      • Simple design: Easy integration into various systems

      • Robust construction: IP65 rated for harsh environments

      • Intuitive interface: Touchscreen controller for real-time monitoring of torque, speed, and power

      • Versatile output options: Digital (RS485, Modbus), analog (0-10V, +/-10V, 4-20mA, 12+/-8mA)

      • Customisable design: Tailored solutions for specific drivetrain integrations

  • The LTS is designed to measure torques from 40kNm to 500kNm, with electronics accuracy of 0.1% full scale.

  • The LTS is designed for straightforward integration into rotating drivetrains, with configurable mechanical interfaces and a range of analogue and digital outputs for connection to control and monitoring systems.

  • The LTS supports digital outputs including RS485 and Modbus, alongside analogue outputs such as 0–10V, ±10V, and 4–20mA for integration with PLC, SCADA, and data acquisition systems.

  • Yes. By monitoring torque and power trends over time, the LTS enables the early detection of abnormal behaviour, supporting predictive maintenance strategies and reducing unplanned downtime.

  • Real-time measurement of torque, speed, and power enables operators to optimise machine settings, improve energy efficiency, and maintain consistent process performance.

  • The LTS is designed for operation in harsh environments, with robust construction and IP65 protection to ensure reliable performance in conditions such as mining, heavy industry, and drilling.

  • The LTS is used in high-torque applications including heavy machinery, mining equipment, industrial drilling, and large drivetrain testing where accurate, continuous torque monitoring is critical.

FAQs: Product Support

Datum Connect
App for iOS and Android

  • It is absolutely free. Simply download it from Google Play Store or App Store, depending on your device.

  • Datum Connect displays torque, power, and speed in real-time in three user-friendly formats.

  • Yes, you can connect any Datum 425 Series torque sensor to Datum Connect. This includes M425, FF425, and RS425 torque transducer.

  • Yes, Datum Connect+ allows you to connect multiple torque sensors/transducers on a single screen, backed up to a SQL database.

  • You can get various analogue outputs, including 12+/-8mA, 0-5V, 0-10V, 4-20mA, +/-5V, and +/-10V. You can also get digital outputs from Datum Connect.

  • It is available to download in Google Play Store and App Store.

FAQs: General Purpose & Applications

General
Torque Sensors

  • Datum Electronics Ltd can work with the customer to calculate the expected torque using known measurement principle and suggest an appropriate torque sensor for you like our M425`

  • Datum Electronics torque sensors have a safety factor built into them for 150% overload protection. Our technical sales team will be happy to work with you to help you choose the right sensor

  • Our standard RS425 Size 1-Al is a 0-3Nm transducer which will give an accuracy of better than 0.1% of the full scale allowing for measurement in the Ncm range.

Applications
Deep Foundation Projects: Helical Pier, Screw Pile, and Ground Screw Installations

  • Torque monitoring plays a key role in ensuring a successful helical pile installation. Here’s why it matters:

      • Proper Installation: It helps contractors confirm that the pile has reached the correct depth and can handle the required load.

      • Avoiding Overdriving: Monitoring prevents overdriving, which can damage the pile and reduce its load-bearing capacity.

      • Boosting Efficiency: Real-time data allows for on-the-spot adjustments, improving installation efficiency and cutting costs.

      • Detailed Documentation: Torque data provides a record of the installation, useful for future reference and maintenance.

    By keeping installation accurate, efficient, and well-documented, torque monitoring is an essential part of the process.

  • While both helical screw piles and augers involve drilling into the ground, they have different roles:

    • Helical Screw Pile: A foundation system with a shaft and helical blades. It’s screwed into the ground to anchor structures, transferring loads directly to the soil.

    • Auger: A drilling tool with a helical blade designed to remove soil or rock as it drills. It’s used to create holes.

    In short, an auger is for making holes, while a helical screw pile stays in the ground as part of the foundation. Auger Hawk’s torque monitoring system is specifically designed to optimise the installation of helical screw piles, ensuring precision and efficiency.

  • An auger is a spiral-shaped tool designed for drilling holes in materials like soil, wood, or ice. It works by rotating a shaft with a screw-like blade that cuts through the material and removes it as it drills.

    Some key things to know about augers:

    • Powerful Equipment: Augers can be motorised tools commonly used in industrial and construction settings.

    • Versatile Applications: They’re ideal for tasks like planting trees, installing fence posts, and drilling foundation holes.

    • Efficient Design: The spiral shape ensures effective cutting and removal of material during drilling.

    Whether for construction, landscaping, or other projects, augers are essential for heavy-duty drilling tasks.

  • A helical screw pile is a type of foundation used to anchor structures to the ground. These piles consist of long shafts with helical blades that screw into the ground using powerful machinery. They’re ideal for a variety of projects, from residential homes to large industrial sites.

    They’re a popular choice because they offer several advantages:

    • Quick Installation: They can be installed fast, with minimal disruption.

    • Low Impact: The process causes little disturbance to the environment or nearby structures.

    • Strong and Reliable: Helical piles can handle heavy loads, even in tough soil conditions.

    • Versatile: Perfect for both new builds and retrofits.

    • Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than traditional foundations.

Applications
Regulatory Compliance: EEXI

  • The Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) is an IMO regulation that came into force on 1 January 2023. It sets minimum technical efficiency standards for existing vessels to reduce CO₂ emissions.

  • The amendments to MARPOL Annex VI entered into force on 1 November 2022, with EEXI and CII certification requirements effective from 1 January 2023. Initial reporting occurred in 2023, with the first ratings issued in 2024.

  • Common measures include engine power limitation, shaft power limitation (SHaPoLi), engine derating, propulsion optimization, and energy-saving devices. For vessel-specific recommendations, consult your classification society or maritime advisory.

  • Your vessel must have its EEXI Technical File approved and its International Energy Efficiency Certificate (IEEC) re-issued by your flag administration or Recognized Organization at the first annual survey after 1 January 2023.

  • The EEXI applies to all cargo and cruise vessels above 400 GT that fall under MARPOL Annex VI. For ships with non-conventional propulsion (e.g. diesel-electric) or those undergoing major conversions, recalculation of the EEXI may be required. Refer to MARPOL Annex VI for specific exemptions and clarifications.

  • A formal IMO review of the EEXI and CII regulations is underway and must be completed by 1 January 2026. Based on its findings, further amendments to MARPOL Annex VI may be adopted.

  • The EEXI Technical File must be approved and the International Energy Efficiency Certificate (IEEC) issued by the vessel’s respective classification society1. You cannot use a different class for approval unless the vessel has formally changed class and the new society has taken over responsibility for statutory certification.

    This ensures consistency with the ship’s existing compliance framework under MARPOL Annex VI.

  • The required EEXI is calculated using EEDI reference lines (Energy Efficiency Design Index) with reduction factors applied based on ship type and size. In most cases, this aligns with the required EEDI values from Phase 2 or Phase 3 of the EEDI framework.

    Each vessel’s attained EEXI is then compared to this required value to determine compliance. The reduction factor is expressed as a percentage relative to the EEDI baseline, and varies depending on the vessel category.

    Source: imo.org

  • You must submit an EEXI Technical File to your vessel’s classification society. This file includes the calculation of the attained EEXI and supporting documentation. Maritime advisory services can assist with preparing the file if needed.

  • Yes. Once the EEXI Technical File is approved by the vessel’s classification society, the International Energy Efficiency Certificate (IEEC) will be re-issued to reflect compliance with MARPOL Annex VI.

  • The International Energy Efficiency Certificate (IEEC) is re-issued at the first annual survey after 1 January 2023, following approval of the vessel’s EEXI Technical File.

  • No. While EPL is a common method, other improvement measures such as shaft power limitation, propulsion optimization, and energy-saving technologies are also valid approaches under the EEXI framework. The most suitable option depends on the vessel’s design, operational profile, and compliance strategy.

  • Yes. Classification societies and flag states may have specific rules or conditions for engine power limitation, especially for vessels with additional requirements such as ice class certification. Operators should consult their respective classification society to ensure compliance with both EEXI and any other applicable standards.

  • All requirements related to the vessel’s ice class must be taken into account when calculating the EEXI. If it is not possible to meet both the minimum speed requirements for ice navigation and the EEXI compliance threshold, additional technical or operational measures may be required.

    Operators should consult their classification society or flag administration for guidance on balancing ice class obligations with EEXI compliance.

    Source: imo.org

  • You could further limit your engine output, for instance for a second time, if necessary to fulfil the requirements by installing Datum Electronics Shaft Power Meter and EEXI Control Panel Interface. Unlike rigid engine limiters, Datum’s EEXI system allows the vessel Master to retain full control of the engine output (for instances where safety is paramount, as defined by SOLAS), whilst still providing the essential data to support the regulatory needs.

  • Not necessarily. While some vessels with non-conventional propulsion systems (such as diesel-electric) may be treated differently under EEXI rules, they are not automatically exempt. Notably, LNG carriers and cruise passenger ships with diesel-electric propulsion are still subject to EEXI requirements.

    For full compliance guidance, vessel operators should consult their classification society or flag administration, as exemptions depend on ship type, propulsion configuration, and regulatory interpretation.

    Source: imo.org

  • After EPL installation, the following documents should be submitted to your classification society:

    • EPL Report from the engine manufacturer

    • Survey statement from the class surveyor confirming installation

    • EPL Management Plan outlining operational procedures and limitations

  • Yes. Limiting engine power often reduces the operational revolution range, which can introduce resonance conditions and lead to increased structural or machinery vibrations. These may affect crew comfort, cause wear or damage, and impact machinery reliability. If power is limited by deactivating cylinders, it alters the engine’s dynamics, requiring reassessment of shaft torsional vibrations, firing frequency, and excitation forces.

    Operators should assess these risks with their classification society or technical advisor to ensure safe and compliant operation.

  • It is recommended to carry out a model test to predict the performance improvement of the ESD before installation. This model test result will then be used for the calculation of the attained EEXI. The decision about the installation of an ESD should be based on a model test or CFD prediction.

  • The officially recognised styling is SHaPoLi. This is the capitalisation used in the IMO’s 2021 Guidelines on Shaft/Engine Power Limitation (Resolution MEPC.335(76)), where the term is defined as Overridable Shaft Power Limitation (SHaPoLi).

    Because class societies and flag administrations align their circulars and advisories to those IMO texts, they also standardise on SHaPoLi, reinforcing it as the formal acronym in regulatory, technical, and certification contexts.

    Source: https://wwwcdn.imo.org/localresources/en/KnowledgeCentre/IndexofIMOResolutions/MEPCDocuments/MEPC.335(76).pdf