HOW the airlines can obtain laboratory-precision power control by means of a torque meter, is explained by Mr. Lundquist. He tells how the device provides an accurate method for controlling both brake horsepower and fuel-air ratio. The simplicity of the method is stressed, and its limitations under various operating conditions are brought out.
In this paper the author presents an impartial discussion of the principal phases of the general problem to assist airline operators in evaluating the possible benefits that they individually might achieve by the use of torque meters. He points out that the long-range operator is the only one who probably will realize any appreciable improvement in operating efficiency by the use of the torque meter, and even he must survey carefully his present operations to ascertain whether or not he already is operating so near to maximum efficiency that the application of the torque meter will not produce any benefits. The torque meter will add from 10 to 50 lb to an engine, including the indicating equipment, the author reveals.
The mechanical features of some current torque-meter types are reviewed.
