Definition
An instrument that measures and displays the amount of twisting force (torque) the engine is delivering to the propeller shaft. In turboprop and some piston engines, it is the primary indicator of engine power output, typically displayed in foot-pounds, percent of rated torque, or psi of oil pressure within the torque-sensing system.
Plain English
A gauge that shows how hard the engine is turning the propeller shaft. The harder the engine is working to spin the prop, the higher the reading.
Context Anchor
Seen in turboprop engine operation, especially when setting power during takeoff, climb, cruise, and engine checks.
Derivation
From 'torque' (twisting force) and 'meter' (a measuring device). 'Torque' comes from the Latin 'torquere,' meaning 'to twist.' The name describes exactly what the instrument does: it measures twisting force.
Why Pilots Care
Provides the primary indication of engine power output, allowing pilots to set and monitor power without exceeding torque limits that could damage the engine or drivetrain.
Analogy
Think of tightening a bolt with a wrench. The harder you twist the wrench, the more torque you apply. A torquemeter shows that kind of twisting effort inside the engine-propeller system.
Intuition Check
Do not read torquemeter as a propeller speed indicator. It does not primarily show how fast the propeller is turning; it shows how hard the engine is twisting the shaft that drives it.
Example Sentence 1
After releasing the brakes for takeoff, the pilot advanced the power levers and checked the torquemeter to confirm takeoff torque was set within limits.
Example Sentence 2
During the climb, the pilot monitored the torquemeter to keep torque within limits while the propeller RPM remained constant.