What is a tachometer?
A tachometer is a device that measures the rotational speed of an axis or disk. This device is designed to measure the speed per minute (RPM) of a moving object. Tachometers are commonly used in engines and cars and are widely used in the automotive and aerospace industries. They are also known as rotation counters, round counters, RPM meters or just as “tach”.
Topics covered in this guide:
- What is a tachometer?
- What is the tachometer used for?
- How does a tachometer work?
- Types of tachometers
- How to use a digital tachometer
- How to connect a tachometer to a coil
- Application of tachometer
What is a tachometer used for?
The purpose of the tachometer is to measure the rotation speed of the machine. For example, in the automotive industry, speedometers are typically displayed on car dashboards. Notifies the driver when shifting gears, taking into account the rotation speed of the axle.
Tachometers can be used to measure a wide range of objects and performance metrics, including:
Rotation speed (eg wheels or rollers, engine, shaft, fan or turbine)
Movement speed (eg conveyor)
Length (eg wire, sheet products)
How does a tachometer work?
Although there are many different types of tachometers, most instruments work the same way. They can be classified in different ways, but the key types to consider in terms of performance are electronic and mechanical tachometers.
How does an electronic tachometer work?
Most modern tachometers are electronic devices that have numerical reading and data storage capabilities. In electronic tachometers, the electronic tachometer system generates a voltage pulse at the output of the electromechanical part. In turn, the electromechanical part is related to the average voltage of this series of pulses. This shows the average voltage of the pulse train directly proportional to the engine speed. The signal is then transmitted to the indicator via a two-page cable and displayed to the user via LED or LCD reading.
How does a mechanical tachometer work?
Mechanical tachometers work by rotating the centrifugal force on the rotational speed. This force can compress or stretch mechanical springs. Resonance tachometers are a subset of mechanical tachometers. These devices use a series of adjusted reeds to detect engine speed. These tools work by determining the vibration frequency of the device.
Types of tachometers
There are several main types of thermometers, each suitable for a variety of applications. In addition to electronic and mechanical tachometers, as described above, there are two main types of contact and non-contact speedometers. These cases can then be broken down in detail in the following sections.
Contact tachometer
Contact tachometers require contact with a rotating object to measure its RPM. Depending on the particular model, they work using an optical encoder or magnetic sensor. To achieve an accurate reading, direct contact with the shaft or rotating part must be maintained.
Non-contact tachometer
Non-contact tachometers can take measurements without the need for direct contact with the object. They usually work with lasers or infrared light and are ideal for use on dangerous objects, hard or moving access.
Laser tachometer
Laser tachometers (laser rangefinders) have a laser at the end of the device that can point to a rotating object to measure RPM through direct reading function. They are a type of contactless speedometer and are ideal for use in hard-to-reach areas, such as tight spaces or working with industrial machinery. Laser tachometers detect different distances depending on the specific model, but 1-2 meters is standard.
Optical tachometers
Optical tachometers Optical telemeters include an optical sensor used to measure the rotation speed of a wheel, motor, or axle. They use lasers or light beams to measure RPM and are also able to measure any difference in the frequency of reflected light.
How to use a tachometer (telemeter)
Using a digital tachometer is relatively simple. Using a non-contact electronic rangefinder, you can complete the operation simply by pointing the device at the engine. These instruments usually show a laser at the end of the speedometer for this purpose. When referring to a rotating object, the device measures the RPM (rpm) and displays the results to the user. Various tachometer accessories are also available to assist with installation and operation of these devices. Accessories can include measuring wheels, adapters, and fittings, and are designed to work with tachometers to provide a comprehensive solution.
How to test a tachometer
To test the speedometer for the vehicle, the tachometer probe must be mounted on a multimeter. The process of using tachometers in automotive applications is as follows:
- Set the multimeter to AC settings
- When the motor is running, connect the multimeter to the tachometer wire leading to the breaker box
- Ask someone else to sit in the car and record when the remote counter is at specific points that are key to the calibration process.
- The multimeter displays accurate reading simultaneously
- Compare both readings to evaluate the accuracy of the speedometer
How can a speedometer be connected to a coil?
Installing a tachometer on the coil can be a useful way to monitor performance by measuring engine speed in a vehicle or vehicle environment. The process of connecting a wire gauge to a coil is as follows:
- Install the speedometer in the desired location and make sure it is read
- Insert three wires (usually red, black, and green) from the back of the device under the dashboard
- Use wire strips to separate the insulation approximately 6 mm from each wire
- Install a terminal on the red wire and use a retractor to secure it
- Use a retractor to connect the connector to the black wire
- Install it on bare metal under the dashboard
- When the switch is on, install it on a fuse with a power supply (for example, a radio fuse)
8. Insert the final wire into the engine compartment through the firewall, under the dashboard, and through a rubber-coated opening.
- Ensure the complete safety of the wire for safety reasons and protection of the surrounding components
- Determine the negative side of the engine ignition coil and connect the wire
- Use a retractor to attach a connector to the winding terminal and secure it with a wrench
- Test the newly installed speedometer by launching the vehicle
As this task involves electricity, it is recommended that you do so only if you are fully qualified and familiar with the process. If necessary, a car electrician will be able to install the tachometer to the coil inside the vehicle on your behalf.
Application of telemeters
Barometers can be used in a wide range of applications in a wide range of industries and environments. Typical programs can include the following:
- Vehicles and cars
- Boats and marine vehicles
- Machinery and mechanical systems
- Research and Development
- Laboratories, testing and measurement
- Maintenance and routine industrial operations
cars
Speedometers used in vehicles allow the driver to select the most appropriate gear and throttle settings for the current situation. They are useful for optimizing performance and protecting the engine from overheating, insufficient lubrication, and unnecessary wear and tear to parts inside the system.
Boats
Speedometers with boats can be used to measure the engine speed of a floating engine. They can also be used to monitor engine speed and make informed decisions about performance and fuel consumption. Boat speedometers can be used with a wide range of boats and engines, including internal or external engines and diesel engines.