Chapter 18 - Mass, Force, and Torque Measurement

Abstract

This chapter covers various aspects of mass, force, and torque. The mass of a body is always quantified in terms of a measurement of the weight of the body, this being the downward force exerted by the body when it is subject to gravity. The electronic load cell is now the preferred type of load cell in most applications. Within an electronic load cell, the gravitational force on the body being measured is applied to an elastic element. This deflects according to the magnitude of the body mass. Horizontal forces either stretch or compress the body that they are applied to according to the direction of the force with respect to the body. The technique of applying a force to a known mass and measuring the acceleration produced can be carried out using any type of accelerometer. Measurement of applied torques is of fundamental importance in all rotating bodies to ensure that the design of the rotating element is adequate to prevent failure under shear stresses. Torque measurement is also a necessary part of measuring the power transmitted by rotating shafts.