December 2024 Newsletter

Calibration Certificates, Limit Switches, Lifting, Tech Talk System Errors and More

As the year nears its end, we want to highlight a few popular topics, including calibration, engineering tips, industry solutions, and product use cases. Before we start, all of us at Interface thank you for a great 2024, and we look forward to staying connected in the new year!

Now, let’s discuss calibration certificates. Load cells convert force or weight into electrical signals for precise measurement. Calibration involves comparing a load cell’s readings against a known standard and adjusting it to ensure accurate measurements, reliability, and compliance with industry specifications.

Interface calibrates every new load cell we design and manufacture, exceeding 100,000 calibrations performed annually. Each new sensor is shipped with a detailed Interface Calibration Certificate.

We will never sell a load cell designed and manufactured by Interface that hasn’t been calibrated in our world-class calibration lab. It’s the integrity and proof that our load cells are designed for precision performance. Interface also offers system level calibrations, when you select the transducer with accompanying instrumentation.

INTERFACE CALIBRATION CERTIFICATES

A calibration certification is documented proof that a load cell has undergone professional calibration and meets industry standards. This certificate isn’t just a formality. It’s an assurance of accuracy and compliance. You can see a copy of the certificate here.

Expect to see a calibration certificate that includes details such as:

Calibration laboratory information

Customer contact details

Calibration method used

Load cell description and condition

Calibration dates

Calibration results and units of measurement

Authorization details

Environmental conditions during calibration

Measurement uncertainty

Traceability of measurements

TIP:  Check out the Interface Calibration Certificates 101 review to learn more and watch an engineering perspective on calibration.

In addition to the initial calibration certificate, Interface recommends that our load cells adhere to regular maintenance and calibration check-ups. Over time, factors like wear and tear, environmental changes, or heavy use can affect their performance. Investing in regular calibration and certification, you not only extend the lifespan of your equipment but also uphold the standards that your business and customers depend on.

Annual calibration services keep your transducers performing to standard. When was the last time you calibrated your load cells? We recommend calibration every year. It’s just good practice. If it’s been a while, it might be time to schedule a check-up with Interface.

LIFTING EQUIPMENT MAKES A MOVE TO INTEGRATING INTELLIGENT MEASUREMENT

Advancements in lifting equipment are transforming industrial operations, enhancing safety and efficiency. Interface provides integrated lifting measurement solutions, including load cells, miniature load cells, load pins, shackles, tension links, and wireless instruments that are flexible and adaptable to diverse needs for transforming lifting equipment.

Modern lifting equipment relies heavily on a variety of sensors. Cranes utilize sensors for load measurement, boom angle, and wind speed. Lifting gantry systems employ similar sensors, with an added focus on position and anti-collision. Jib cranes, engine lifts, floor cranes, and hoisting equipment utilize load cells for precision measurement and safety alerts. Patient lifts prioritize safety through sensors that monitor weight, tilt, and sling tension. Rigging equipment incorporates tension sensors and accelerometers. Pallet movers rely on proximity sensors, while loaders and bulldozers employ sensors for bucket position, ground clearance, and load weight. Read The Rise of Intelligent Measurement in Lifting Equipment to learn more.
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USING A LIMIT SWITCH WITH A FORCE MEASUREMENT SYSTEM

A limit switch is an electromechanical device that acts like a trigger, activating when a physical object encounters it. This simple mechanism translates to powerful capabilities in force measurement applications. Limit switches safeguard load cells from overload, extending their lifespan and reducing the need for costly replacements. Read Interface’s Tech Talk ‘Why Use a Limit Switch in Force Measurement?’ to learn more about the benefits and everyday use cases.

A limit switch is a guardian within the force measurement system, providing critical safeguards and enhancing overall system performance. An easy way to add a limit switch feature in test and measurement is through instrumentation. Our 9825 General Purpose Indicator, for example, offers limit switch functionality.

QUICK RELEASE HOOKS INTEGRATE LOAD-MEASURING PINS FOR SAFETY

Quick release hooks (QRHs) are essential for advanced maritime, energy, and lifting systems. These specialized hooks ensure safe and efficient operations by securing lines quickly and, most importantly, releasing rapidly, even under heavy loads. QRHs are more than simple connectors. For example, advanced QRH models integrate load-measuring pins that monitor the forces acting on mooring lines. This data lets operators respond immediately to dangerous situations like slack or overloaded lines. Integrated alarms can trigger when loads exceed safe working limits, adding another layer of safety. Learn more in our post Benefits of Load Monitoring in Quick Release Hooks.

UNDERSTANDING FORCE MEASUREMENT SYSTEM ERRORS

Understanding the potential sources of error is crucial to accurate force measurement. Interface provides technical support resources online to assist load cell users. Often, terms like resolution, repeatability, and reproducibility are used interchangeably, leading to confusion. It’s important to remember that these are system parameters, not just load cell characteristics. Factors including application, installation, fixtures, and stability influence them. Learn more about the topic defined in our Load Cell Field Guide by reading Interpretation of Force Measurement System Errors.

RESOURCES AND MORE

TRANSFORMING WAREHOUSES: Force and torque sensors measure the physical and rotational forces acting on an object, providing critical data for tasks ranging from robotic arm control to preventing overload in material handling equipment. Learn more.

ROADS, BRIDGES, AND HIGHWAYS: Interface load cells, load pins, instrumentation, multi-axis sensors, and torque transducers measure the hardware used for transportation infrastructure to improve our roadways and bridges. Learn more.

EDUCATION ROBOT TESTING: EduRobots merge cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) with mechanical engineering to facilitate education and entertainment, which requires rigorous testing. Learn more.

WEEKLY LINKEDIN NEWSLETTER: WEEKLY LINKEDIN NEWSLETTER: We publish a weekly InterfaceIQ. What’s new? Please read our latest editions: Unpacking Precision Measurement Solutions for Packaging, Cold Temperature Testing with Load Cells, Calibration Grade is the Foundation of Accuracy, The Science of Stability: Measurement Solutions for Ports and Waterways and Load Shackles Fuse Strength and Precision Measurement. TIP! Subscribe on LinkedIn

INTERFACE YOUTUBE VIDEOS: We produce several videos monthly highlighting unique applications, industry solutions, and products. Check out our latest videos.

We want to thank you for your continued interest in Interface. We are committed to continuing our focus on quality, accuracy, and delivering exceptional customer experiences.

As we close 2024, we hope the New Year brings you happiness, success, and exciting new opportunities. Contact us if we can help you in 2025!

Your Interface Team