The TorqueTrak 10K system from Binsfeld Engineering is capable of streaming 2400 Hz of data for 24 hours, typical, on a single 9V Lithium battery. If more test time is needed, the 9V can be replaced. But what if you can’t stop the shaft or don’t want to constantly change out batteries? Aside from considering an inductively powered telemetry system, there are a few simple things you can do to get the most out of your TorqueTrak 10K system:
1) Use Lithium 9V Batteries
Each TorqueTrak 10K is shipped with a pair of 9V Lithium Batteries. The TorqueTrak 10K was specifically designed to be used with these batteries due to their high energy density and small form factor. Once these batteries are used up, it is not uncommon for customers to purchase standard Alkaline 9V batteries. Doing so reduces the battery life by over 50%. To ensure you get the most out of your system, Binsfeld recommends using the Lithium 9V batteries. They can be purchased online here or directly through Binsfeld Engineering.
2) Put Transmitter in Power Standby Mode
The TorqueTrak 10K system has a Power Standby feature to preserve battery power for times when the system is installed but not in use. Using the RM10K Remote, the Transmitter and Battery can be put in Power Standby mode, extending the battery life by 10x, compared to active duty. For example, a 9V Lithium battery will last 240 hours or more in Power Standby mode. The remote uses infrared to communicate with the transmitter, so a direct line of sight is needed. In the event that the shaft is spinning, or direct line of sight is difficult to achieve, a high-power Infrared setting can be activated on the RM10K. To enable the high infrared power mode, first press and release the TRANSMITTER ON key and then press the desired function key. When the TRANSMITTER ON key is pressed, the green SENDING light on the RM10K will come on for 3 seconds. The desired function key must be pressed within this 3-second timeframe; otherwise the RM10K will revert back to normal (low infrared power) mode. To send the ON command in high power mode, press the TRANSMITTER ON key twice.
3) Use Higher Capacity Battery
While the 9V lithium battery is the most commonly used battery for the TT10K system, other batteries can be used. One such example is the 2200 mAh Tenergy 18650 battery , which can be purchased with a compatible charger. If a new battery is specified, the operating voltage must remain within the operating voltage range of the transmitter (7-18VDC for the TT10K). Environmental protection for the battery should also be considered, since only 9V batteries fit into the fiber-reinforced housing sold with the TT10K system.
4) Consider Using a TorqueTrak 10K-LP Transmitter
The TorqueTrak 10K-LP transmitter offers double the battery life of a TX10K (48 hours vs 24 hours, typical). Each TX10K-LP transmitter works with existing TorqueTrak RX10K receivers, allowing for seamless integration into your existing torque telemetry system. In addition to the increase in battery life, a TX10K-LP transmitter is compatible with the IP-66 rated Water-Resistant Housing Accessory, and comes in a much shorter profile than the TX10K (.7″ vs 2.63″), making it ideal for applications with reduced radial clearance.
These are a few simple ways to get more out of your existing temporary torque measurement system. If, after considering these options, you are still looking for a system that gets more run time and does not rely on batteries, consider Binsfeld’s line of inductively powered systems. The systems can be used continuously for weeks, even years, on end without the need for adjustment.
If you have any questions on this or would like to discuss your application, feel free to contact us directly. We’re here to help!