October 2023 Newsletter

Universal Load Cells, DAQ Tips, Machinery and Industry Solutions

What is a universal load cell? The classification of a universal load cell refers to the ability to measure both tension and compression forces. Universal load cells provide the ability to capture data on both forces. They are designed for an expansive range of force or weight measurement applications such as weighing scales, material testing machines, and industrial automation equipment.

Universal Load Cells are ideal for installations where the load may change between tension and compression, such as in rope and chain testing. The durability and quality of universal load cells are valuable for product and material destructive testing. Use Interface’s Load Cell Selection Guide to find the suitable load cell based on your exact measurement criteria.

WHY CHOOSE A UNIVERSAL LOAD CELL?

Range of Standard Capacities: Universal load cells are diverse in dimension and capacities. From miniatures like our model ULC, which is the world’s most accurate ultra-low capacity tension and compression load cell measuring loads from 0.1 to 2 N (10.2 grams to 500 gmf) to the popular 1000 Series High Capacity Fatigue Rated
LowProfile Load Cell capable of measuring tension and compression over a million pounds of force, Interface has a range of universal options. The requirements of any testing program will define the type of load cell.

Versatility: Universal load cells can measure force in multiple directions, including compression, tension, and shear forces.

Adaptable Accessories: Universal load cells can be used with various accessories and fixtures to suit specific applications. This includes bases, mounting hardware, adapters, cables, and protective enclosures. Wireless sensor products are in high demand for use with universal load cells.

Engineered to Order: Interface offers custom load cells to further the testing application and flexibility of use.

DATA ACQUISITION TIPS

Based on the growing requirements to gather more data faster, Interface continues to add to our line of data acquisition systems to use with our load cells, torque transducers, and multi-axis sensors. These systems are designed for comprehensive force and torque measurement data collection and analysis. Considering all the options, read the five essential DAQ system tips Interface’s instrumentation experts offer. Watch Interface’s Unlocking the Power of DAQ webinar for additional information about Interface data acquisition solutions. Go to Interface’s Data AQ Pack guide for help selecting and pairing the right sensors and DAQ components.

INTERFACE SENSORS ADVANCE INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY PERFORMANCE

The accuracy of force, torque, and weight measurements improves industrial machinery performance and controls. Interface sensor technologies, including our load cells and multi-axis sensors, provide critical data for various machinery designs and functions. Interface analog and digital instrumentation products are available to amplify, condition, and display
the signals from force measurement sensors.

Industrial machinery using Interface products to optimize performance:

Machine tools used for grinding, drills, and lathes

Fabrication apparatus used for bending, shearing, and welding

Assembly equipment for production environments that include conveyor belts, robotic arms, and picking devices

Testing, quality control, and safety inspection equipment

Heavy equipment operational controllers for forklifts, cranes, and hoisting gear

Construction machinery such as loaders, bulldozers, and lifts

Learn more about Interface solutions used in industrial machinery design, testing, and operations in our post: Force Measurement Sensors are Essential to Modern Industrial Machinery.

TEST AND MEASUREMENT TRENDS IN THE AUTO INDUSTRY

Interface is a trusted supplier to automotive testing labs and automakers of precision sensor technologies for force and torque measurement. Our load cells support research, testing, and innovation in the industry. There is a growing demand for Interface torque transducers for motor, engine, EV battery, tire, and component tests. We see an increasing use of transducers to measure the performance of electric vehicles (EVs) and to assess advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) performance. ADAS systems rely on numerous sensors to measure and
control the vehicle’s dynamics. Learn more in the two posts: Trends in Torque Transducer Applications in the Auto Industry and Interface Validates Trends In Automotive Test And Measurement.

SPECIAL EVENT NOTICE! This week, Interface is exhibiting at the Automotive Testing Expo in Novi, Michigan. If you want a sneak peek at one of our demonstrations, watch how our industrial robotic hand captures the precision measurements using our 6-Axis Multi-Axis Sensor and BX8 instrumentation. WATCH IT HERE.

MEASUREMENT SOLUTIONS FOR THE NATURAL RESOURCES INDUSTRY

Interface precision sensor technologies are vital in the natural resources industry. Our load cells and instrumentation are critical in measuring and monitoring forces, loads, and weight in different processes, equipment, tools, and technologies used in the industry. The natural resources industry is essential to the global economy, providing crucial raw materials for consumption and use in other sectors such as agriculture, energy, and consumer products.

Natural resources industry applications using Interface force sensors range from mining and quarrying equipment design and testing to logging and forestry machine regulatory and safety monitoring. We provide measurement solutions for ground stability monitoring, drilling optimization, water resource management, mineral processing tools, and heavy-duty machines. Learn more about products and applications by reading Interface Measurement Solutions For The Natural Resources Industry.

RESOURCES, EVENTS AND MORE

CANNING AND FOOD PRODUCTION: We provide all kinds of sensor technologies for canning, food production, and distribution. Read: Interface Sensors Optimize Food Canning And Production

EXCITATION VOLTAGE 101: Load cell excitation is necessary to ensure the accuracy and reliability of load cell measurements. Learn more about excitation and sensor power tips. To read all of Interface’s 101 posts, go here.

LIFTING WEBINAR: If you missed our latest webinar, check out Interface Engineered Solutions For Lifting Webinar Recap, where you can also watch the entire event at your convenience.

TECH TALK ANSWERS: What Is Static Error Band Output? Read this latest post for a quick refresher on SEB and SEB Output.

WEEKLY LINKEDIN NEWSLETTER! We are publishing a weekly InterfaceIQ newsletter on LinkedIn that you can subscribe to for more updates. What’s new? Read our October editions highlighting moment compensation, public transportation, production lines, and tensile testing.

Contact us if you need help selecting a universal load cell, evaluating your DAQ options, or needing a custom solution for your industry application. We are ready to help!

Your Interface Team