The Definition of the Tachometer

A tachometer is an instrument used to measure the rotation speed of an object such as an engine shaft, a motor, or a turbine. The word tachometer comes from the Greek words “tachos” meaning speed and “metron” meaning measure.

In this article, we will discuss the history, inventor, definition, types, principles, how to use, precautionary measures, and safety tips for this RPM gauge.

The History of the Tachometer

The tachometer has a long and interesting history. The first RPM gauge was invented in 1817 by a German physicist named Johann Christian Poggendorff. It was called the “Poggendorff disk” and was used to measure the speed of machines in textile factories.

In 1844, the French engineer Jules Joubert invented the first modern tachometer, which used a rotating magnet to measure the speed of a shaft.

In 1867, the British engineer F.W. Lanchester invented an RPM gauge that used a centrifugal governor to measure the speed of an engine. In the early 20th century, tachometers became widely used in the automotive industry, where they were used to measure the speed of car engines.

Inventor of Tachometer

As mentioned earlier, the first RPM gauge was invented by Johann Christian Poggendorff in 1817. However, the modern tachometer was invented by Jules Joubert in 1844.

Since then, RPM gauges have been used in a wide range of industries, including the automotive, aviation, and marine industries.

The Definition

A tachometer is an instrument used to measure the rotational speed of a shaft or other rotating machinery. It typically displays the speed in revolutions per minute (RPM).

In every RPM gauge, there is a digital or analogue display and an operation button. Normally they are powered by one or two AAA batteries.

An Industrial Tachometer
An Industrial Tachometer

Types of Tachometers

There are two main types of tachometers: contact and non-contact.

Contact RPM gauges use a physical connection to the rotating shaft to measure its speed. These can be further classified into mechanical and electronic tachometers.

Mechanical RPM gauges use a mechanical connection, such as a cable or gear train, to transmit the speed to the gauge. Electronic tachometers use an electronic sensor to measure the speed and display it on a digital readout.

Non-contact RPM gauges use light or magnetic sensors to measure the rotational speed of the object without physically touching it. These can be further classified into optical and magnetic tachometers. Optical tachometers use light sensors to measure the speed, while magnetic tachometers use magnetic sensors.

There are tachometers which are displaying measures in analogue or digital. But nowadays digital tachometers are very popular in industries due to their easiness.

The Principle

The principle behind a tachometer is relatively simple. A tachometer measures the rotational speed of a shaft or other rotating machinery by measuring the number of revolutions it makes in a given period.

The tachometer does this by detecting some form of motion, such as a physical connection, a magnetic field, or light.

How to Use Tachometer

To use a tachometer, you must first select the appropriate type of tachometer for your application. Next, you must attach the tachometer to the rotating shaft or other rotating machinery in the appropriate manner.

If you are using a contact tachometer, this may involve attaching a cable or gear train to the shaft. If you are using a non-contact tachometer, this may involve positioning the sensor near the rotating object.

Once the RPM gauge is attached, you can start taking measurements. To do this, you must first calibrate it. This involves setting the tachometer to the appropriate range for your application.

You can then start taking measurements by either reading the gauge directly or recording the data for later analysis.

For non-contact RPM gauges, the operator should aim the tachometer toward the rotating object and press the operating button. In the operation, the tachometer emits a forced light beam toward the rotating object. Then that light beam reflects the tachometer because of the lead strip.

Lead strip pasted on a flywheel
Lead strip pasted on a flywheel

Using the number of times that the beam reflected from the target and reaches the tachometer and the time taken for that, the RPM gauge process the output in rev/min (Revolution per minute).

Light beam ejector
Light Beam Ejector

Safety Tips for Users

When using a tachometer, it is important to follow certain safety tips to ensure the safety of the user and those around them. Here are some safety tips to follow:

  1. Wear protective gear: Depending on the type of machinery being measured, wearing protective gear such as gloves, safety goggles, and ear protection may be necessary.
  2. Keep a safe distance: When using a contact RPM gauge, ensure that the user is standing at a safe distance from the rotating machinery to avoid injury.
  3. Ensure stability: When using a contact RPM gauge, ensure that the machinery being measured is stable and that there is no risk of it moving or falling over during measurement.
  4. Use non-contact RPM gauges when necessary: In situations where it may be unsafe to use a contact tachometer, such as in the presence of hazardous chemicals or hard-to-reach areas, use a non-contact tachometer instead.
  5. Follow manufacturer’s instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using an RPM gauge, including any recommended safety procedures.
  6. Regular maintenance: Regularly maintain the RPM gauge to ensure it is working properly and is safe to use.

By following these safety tips, the user can minimize the risk of injury or accidents when using an RPM gauge. It is important to prioritize safety when working with machinery or equipment that involves rotating parts.

Thanks for reading.

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If you have any doubts or need further information regarding this topic, please comment below or send me an e-mail ([email protected]).

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