Torqueregulation

Torqueregulation refers to the process and systems used to control the torque output of a machine or drive subsystem to match a desired value or to limit it for safety and reliability. It is used in mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems, including internal combustion engines, electric motors, and turbine drives.

In internal combustion engines, torque is affected by throttle, fuel metering, ignition, and load. A governor or engine control unit modulates inputs to keep the torque within a target range, often indirectly by stabilizing engine speed or exhaust load. In electric motors, torque is proportional to current; torque regulation is accomplished by monitoring torque (or current) and adjusting the drive voltage or current via PWM and control algorithms. Modern drives use closed-loop control with feedback from torque sensors or estimations derived from motor current, speed, and known motor constants.

Common control strategies include proportional-integral-derivative controllers, model predictive control, or feedforward combined with feedback. Hardware elements include sensors, actuators, and drive electronics; in some systems, mechanical governors or springs provide passive regulation. Applications include automotive transmissions and traction control, industrial robotics, CNC machines, electric vehicle powertrains, aircraft engines and hydraulic systems.

Key considerations are response time, stability, accuracy of torque sensing or estimation, sensor noise, efficiency, and safety limits to prevent overload or slip.