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Load Cells for Smarter and More Efficient Weighing

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Interface load cells are a key part of the advancements in weighing technologies. Breakthrough applications utilizing force sensing for weighing are expanding across industries. No matter the use case, weighing and scales must be trustworthy and always provide accurate information, as outlined in Accuracy Matters for Weighing and Scales.

For decades, load cells have been used for a wide range of weighing use cases. Load cells are electromechanical transducers that convert a force into an electrical signal. This electrical signal can then be amplified and processed to determine the weight of the object being weighed.

In testing or standard weighing practices, the load cell is typically mounted in a frame that supports the object being weighed. The load cell is connected to a signal conditioner, which amplifies the electrical signal from the load cell and converts it into a digital signal. The digital signal is then sent to a weighing controller, which calculates the weight of the object and displays it on a display. The weighing controller may also have additional features, such as data logging, remote monitoring, and programmable functions.

Now, Interface high accuracy load cells are found in advanced weighing applications used to define center of gravity for equipment, control inventory through weighing automation, batching, check weighing, process control and sample testing. Learn more about these applications and products in our Weighing Your Options Webinar.

Smart cities use connected force sensing trash receptacles for optimizing schedules of waste removal based on weight to reduce costs and increase efficiencies.  Innovative smart pallet force sensing helps to track products and goods at the dock to reduce expenses and increase productivity using weight as the measurement. Silo weighing for inventory management uses setpoints that are configured to automatically generate purchase orders when product levels fall below a defined weight.

Weighing sensor technologies today are more than a standard measurement device. Interface load cells can measure across a wide range of force, from 0.02 to 2,000k lbf. As the types of applications mature in capabilities, innovation, and complexity, these requirements also help to define the type of sensors that will provide precision measurement.

Our weighing sensors combined with advanced instrumentation use a variety of communication methods, including analog, digital, wireless and cloud based, to allow users to gather data in-facility or remotely. We can customize sensors to meet specifications for weighing use cases, including the design of complete weighing systems.

Advanced weighing applications often require sealed sensors with submersible features, wireless output and communications capabilities, and ease of use to design into products, machines or equipment.

Digital scales with advanced features such as data logging, connectivity options, and programmable functions have become commonplace. From bench scales to platform scales, there is a diverse way for our load cells to be implemented and available to measure diverse types of weighing applications.

Popular Interface Products Used for Weighing Applications

Load cells are an essential part of many weighing applications. They are used to measure the weight of objects in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, food processing, and logistics. Load cells provide accurate and reliable measurements, which is essential for ensuring the quality and safety of products.

WeighingSolutions_InfographicPoster

Learn more in the application note details below.

Veterinary Weighing Scales

A manufacturer wanted two weighing scales for consumers like veterinarians who want to weigh large and small animals. Interface suggested using two different solutions. For the smaller scale, Interface’s SPI Low Capacity Platform Scale Load Cell was perfect for smaller, and lighter animals. As for the larger scale, the INFRD Platform Scale with pre-installed load beams worked best. Both scales included 480 Bidirectional Weight Indicators to display the total weight of the animals being weighed. Using this solution, the veterinarian was able to weigh both large and small pets easily and accurately with both scales.

Silo Grain Weighing and Dispensing

A customer wanted to measure and record the grain being put in and out of their grain dispensing container, as it dispenses content into a carrier truck for transportation. Interface suggested a wireless solution, installing a WTS 1200 Standard Precision LowProfile™ Wireless Load Cells at the legs of the grain dispensing container. The 1200 measured the distribution correlation of the grain as it inputted and outputted from the container. Results were transmitted and displayed using the WTS-BS-1-HA Handheld Display for multiple transmitters, and logged and graphed using the WTS-BS-4 USB Industrial Base Station. With this solution, the customer was able to log and graph the measurement results of the grain content that the silo dispenses into the grain dispensing container, and when the grain is dispensed into the carrier truck.

Weighing is among the oldest use cases for load cells in the world and Interface has been there nearly every step of the way, growing alongside our customers and developing new innovations to perfect accuracy, reliability and durability. To learn more about our sensor solutions for weighing application, please visit https://www.interfaceforce.com/solutions/weighing-solutions/.

Load Cell Test Stands 101

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Load cell test stands are important devices for manufacturers and testing engineers who need to measure the force or torque applied to an object, test specimen, or product. They are typically made up of a frame, one or more load cells, software, and data acquisition instrumentation.

How do load cell test stands work?

Interface load cells are sensors that convert force into an electrical signal. This signal is then amplified and sent to the test stand’s software, which displays and records the force data. The software can also be used to control the test stand, such as setting the speed and duration of a test.

Test stands are used to hold the test object or device and apply force or torque to it. They should be designed to provide a stable and consistent testing environment. It is typically designed to accommodate a wide range of objects of different sizes and shapes. Often a reconfigurable structure to adapt from test to test.

Test stands may have various components, such as a base or base plate, columns, a crosshead, and load introduction devices. Interface provides high-accuracy load cells, instrumentation and DAQ systems, software and accessories designed for use in various types of test stands.

What are the different types of load cell test stands?

There are two main types of load cell test stands: motorized and manual. Motorized test stands are more advanced and can be used for more demanding testing applications. They typically have features such as programmable speed and force control, as well as data logging capabilities. Manual test stands are less expensive and easier to use, but they are not as versatile as motorized test stands.

A test stand and a load frame are both mechanical structures used in materials testing, but they differ in their functions and designs.

The test stand can be a test bench or structure on a test bed plate. These assemblies are designed to rigidly hold an object while it is being subjected to external forces. These forces could be introduced from all angles and orientations and cover low cycle design limit to long duration fatigue cycle testing.

A load frame, on the other hand, is a machine that is specifically designed to apply and measure axial or torsion forces during material or small component testing.

Most Common Requirements for Load Cell Test Stands

Testing professionals, engineers and metrologists require a load cell test stand to perform accurate and precise measurements. The primary features of a test stand include:

  • High accuracy: The load cell test stand must be able to measure force or torque with a high degree of accuracy. This is important to ensure that the measurements are reliable and repeatable. Confidence in the data must be validated through accuracy of measurement.
  • Versatility: The load cell test stand must be able to be used for a variety of testing applications. Test lab professionals, engineers and metrologists need equipment that can perform a wide range of product and material tests. This also includes interchangeable sensors, depending on the capacity and type of test, such as tension or fatigue.
  • Repeatability: The load cell test stand must be able to repeat measurements with high precision. This is important to verify the accuracy of measurements over time, through continuous use and even high cycle counts.
  • Safety: The load cell test stand must be safe to use, even when testing products under high loads. Measurements are not compromised by safety concerns.
  • Ease of use: The load cell test stand must be easy to use, even for users with limited technical knowledge. This is important for testing professionals to be able to quickly and easily set up and use the test stand.

Load cell test stand requirements can vary based on the type of testing projects and materials. Many test stands are standard; however, complex testing programs often require custom test stands that are designed and calibrated for specific use cases. Interface provide load cells, instrumentation and software designed for use in test stands.

Test Stand Sensor Considerations

  • Ensure sensors are properly sized for capacity, cycle, and extraneous load considerations.
  • Multiple bridges are good feature for redundancy and data validation.
  • Thread adapters and connector protectors must be considered in choosing the sensor for a specific test stand application.
  • Multi-axis data capture often requires robust instrumentation to take full advantage of the data.
  • Invest in versatility and ruggedness to maximize return.

Additional Test Stand Options

  • Programmable speed and force controllers help to regulate the rate at which the load is applied to the product, as well as the maximum force that can be applied during a given test period or cycle.
  • Data logging instrumentation records the force data for each test. This data can then be used to analyze the results of the test and to make sure that the product meets the required specifications.
  • Remote monitoring and controls help with test stand use from a remote location. This can be useful to run tests without being physically present at the test stand.

There are many different types of load cell test stands, so it is important to choose one that is right for your specific needs. When selecting or building a load cell test stand, consider the weight or force that you need to measure, the accuracy and precision, the environment in which the test stand will be used and the equipment budget.  This is a topic we detailed in our Testing Lab Essentials Webinar. Watch this portion of the online technical seminar below.

Load Cell Test Stand Use Cases and Applications

  • Aerospace test stands are used to measure the strength of aircraft structures. Test stands are used to test the performance and durability of aircraft components, such as wings, fuselages, and engines. They are also used to test the structural integrity of aircraft materials, such as composites and metals.
  • Material test stands can be used to exam the strength, stiffness, and toughness of materials.
  • Structural test stands are used for small capacity testing, as well as large amounts of force to measure the structural integrity of buildings, bridges, and other formations.
  • Dynamic test stands are used to measure the performance of products under different environmental conditions, such as shock and vibration testing.
  • Medical manufacturers need to test the performance of medical devices. Test stands are used to test the performance and durability of medical devices, such as pacemakers and defibrillators. They are also used to test the accuracy of medical instruments and in-home medical equipment, as the safety of user is paramount to all other requirements.
  • Automotive labs use test the performance of engines, transmissions, brakes and other components. They are also used to test the durability of automotive materials, such as tires and plastics.
  • Consumer product manufacturers and OEMs must test the durability to ensure customer satisfaction and reliability of the product. Test stands are used in testing toys, appliances, tools, and electronic devices.
  • Industrial automation component makers and OEMs must test the strength of machine parts and materials used in product lines, machine tools, and robots. They are also used to test the safety of industrial equipment, such as forklifts and cranes.

Load cell test stands are an essential tool to accurately measure the forces acting on a test specimen. By using a load cell test stand, testing engineers can ensure that their equipment is operating within its design limits and that it is safe to use. If you have questions about building or upgrading your test stand, be sure to consult with our application engineers.

Demystifying Specifications Webinar

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Interface’s technical force measurement webinar Demystifying Specifications details descriptions, terms, values and parameters found in product datasheets for load cells, torque transducers, instrumentation and specialty products. Learn from our experts what specifications need critical review, recommendations based on product categories, and the insider point of view on what is most important in terms of specifications for different use cases and tests.

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Signal Conditioners 101

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Signal conditioners are used in instrumentation, control systems, and measurement systems where accurate and reliable signal processing is a requirement. The purpose of a signal conditioner is to ensure that the electrical signal from a sensor is compatible with the input requirements of the subsequent signal processing equipment.

Primary features of signal conditioners include amplification, filtering, isolation, and linearization. It can perform various functions depending on the specific application and the type of signals.

Interface Signal Conditioners are used with a wide range of load cell and force measurement devices. Transducers convert force or weight into an electrical signal. The output signal of a load cell is typically in the form of a small electrical voltage that is proportional to the applied force.

Be sure to reference the Instrumentation Selection Guide to find instrumentation with signal conditioners that will best fit your force measurement application.

Understanding Signal Conditioners Use with Load Cells

Amplification: Load cells produce small electrical signals, which may require amplification to bring them to a usable level. Signal conditioners can include built-in amplifiers that increase the magnitude of the load cell signal. This amplification helps to improve the signal-to-noise ratio and enhances the sensitivity of the system.

Filtering: Load cell signals can be affected by electrical noise or interference, which can degrade the accuracy of measurements. Signal conditioners often incorporate filtering capabilities to remove unwanted noise and interference from the load cell signal. This ensures that the signal is clean and reliable.

Excitation: Load cells require an excitation voltage or current to function properly. Signal conditioners provide a stable and regulated excitation source to power the load cell. This excitation voltage is typically supplied to the load cell through the signal conditioner, ensuring consistent and accurate measurements.

Calibration and Linearization: Load cells may exhibit nonlinear characteristics, meaning that the relationship between the applied force and the output voltage is not perfectly linear. Signal conditioners can include calibration and linearization algorithms to compensate for these nonlinearities. By applying appropriate mathematical adjustments, the signal conditioner can provide a linear output that accurately represents the applied force.

Signal Conversion: Load cell signals are typically analog voltages, but they may need to be converted to digital format for further processing or transmission. Some signal conditioners include analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) that convert the analog load cell signal into digital data, enabling it to be processed by digital systems.

Signal Conditioner Considerations

  • Form factor design: box mount, DIN rail, in-line cable, integral to load cell
  • Output options: ±5/±10VDC, 0.1-5VDC, Current, Frequency, Digital
  • Polarity: Bi-polar or unipolar
  • Bandwidth
  • Onboard filtering
  • Power supply type: cable, built-in, wireless
  • Noise immunity

Interface Top Signal Conditioners

PRODUCT: DMA2 DIN RAIL MOUNT SIGNAL CONDITIONER

  • User selectable analog output +/-10V, +/-5V, 4-20mA
  • 10-28 VDC power
  • Selectable full scale input ranges 5-50mV
  • DIN rail mountable
  • Push button shunt calibration
  • 1000Hz bandwidth

PRODUCT: SGA AC/DC POWERED SIGNAL CONDITIONER

  • User selectable analog output +/-10V, +/-5V, 0-5V, 0-20mA, 4-20mA
  • 110VAC, 220VAC, OR 18-24VDC power
  • Switch selectable filtering 1Hz to 5kHz
  • Single channel powers up to four transducers
  • Selectable full scale input range .06 to 30mV/V
  • Sealed ABS enclosure
  • Optional bridge completion and remote shunt activation module

PRODUCT: ISG ISOLATED DIN RAIL MOUNT SIGNAL CONDITIONER

  • Galvanically isolated power supply
  • High accuracy
  • +/-5VDC or +/-10VDC Analog output (4-20mA optional)
  • 10-30VDC Power
  • Switch selectable filtering 1Hz to 1kHz (up to 10kHz optional)
  • Accepts inputs up to 4.5mV/V
  • DIN rail mountable

CSC and LCSC-OEM Inline Signal ConditionersPRODUCT: CSC and LCSC-OEM INLINE SIGNAL CONDITIONERS

  • IP67 stainless steel enclosure (CSC Only)
  • CE approved (CSC Only)
  • Zero and span adjustments
  • 1 kHz bandwidth

PRODUCT: VSC2 Rugged Compact Vehicle Powered Signal Conditioner

  • High accuracy precision bi-polar differential amplifier
  • ± 5 VDC Output
  • Accepts inputs from ±1.4 to ±-4.2
  • 1000 Hz low pass filter
  • Rugged design and compact size
  • Course, fine zero, and span adjustments
  • Activate R-CAL (Shunt Cal) with internal switch

Signal conditioners ensure that the load cell’s output is optimized for accuracy, stability, and compatibility with the measurement or control system. They help mitigate noise, amplify weak signals, provide excitation, and perform calibration and linearization to ensure precise and reliable measurements of force or weight.

Visit the Interface Instrumentation Selection Guide to see all the products available with signal conditioning functionality.

Watch this Testing Lab Essentials Webinar Part 3 to learn more about the benefits and use cases of Interface Signal Conditioners.

Interface New Product Releases Summer 2023

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When the company started in 1968, the focus was on perfecting the precision load cell. This month we are celebrating our 55-year anniversary, and over these years we have expanded our line from the famous blue and miniature load cells to more than 35,000 products that include instrumentation, calibration systems, torque transducers, multi-axis sensors, load pins, shackles and accessories.

Interface has released several new products in our force measurement solutions line. This update is a highlight of these additions. If you have any questions about these new products, please contact our application engineers.

INTERFACE SUMMER 2023 NEW PRODUCT RELEASES

NEW PRODUCT! JB1100 4-CHANNEL ADVANCED SIGNAL CONDITIONING TRANSMITTER INDICATOR AND JUNCTION BOX

The JB1100 is the ideal solution for systems that require weight data from a load cell. Interface’s JB1100 4-Channel Advanced Signal Conditioning Transmitter Indicator and Junction Box offers maximum control. The multi-function weight transmitter junction box can be utilized as an independent or dependent four-channel instrument. The JB1100 allows for the direct reading and diagnosis of each individual connected load cell or summed as a whole.

Primary JB1100 features and benefits:

  • Four independent scales or four load cell inputs
  • LED display (13mm) and six LEDs show active functions
  • Configurable calibration and setup
  • Calibration using linearization points
  • Diagnostic information via serial port
  • Analog Output Standard Opto isolated, 16 bit 0-20 mA, 4-20 mA, 0-5 VDC, and 0-10 VDC
  • 12-24 VDC Power and comes with a 120VAC Power Supply as well

For more weighing instrumentation and information, visit our new Interface Weighing Solutions.

NEW PRODUCT! 4850 BATTERY POWERED BLUETOOTH WEIGHT INDICATOR

Interface’s 4850 Digital Indicator Instrumentation is environmentally protected and wireless using Bluetooth technology and battery power. The 4850 digital indicator is housed in a stainless steel NEMA 4X enclosure. It has a large 0.8” LCD display for easy readout of up to 50,000 display divisions and can drive up to 8-350Ω load cells. A full duplex RS-232 port or optional Bluetooth module can transmit data on demand or continuously to match the input requirements of a wide variety of peripheral devices including printers, remote displays and computers.

Primary 4850 features and benefits:

  • Stainless steel swivel stands and enclosure
  • Easy to read LCD display with up to 50,000 graduations
  • Full front panel configuration and calibration
  • Multipoint calibration linearization
  • Units lb, kg, g, and oz
  • Drives up to eight 350 ω load cells
  • Power requirements are 4-14 VDC with 6-volt 3 Ah internal rechargeable lead acid battery
  • High quality and low cost
  • Remote display, peak hold, check weighing, accumulation, self-diagnostics
  • Option: analog output: 16-bit, 0-5 VDC, 4-20 mA
  • Option: built-in relays (6V or 12V)

NEW PRODUCT! 1200 AND 1201 SERIES IO-LINK LOAD CELL UNIVERSAL OR COMPRESSION-ONLY

Interface now offers advanced communication protocol features for our most popular load cells, the 1200 LowProfile and 1201 LowProfile Series. Interface 1200 and 1201 Series IO-Link Load Cell Universal or Compression-Only models are low profile load cells that are IO-Link compatible, which is an open standard serial communication protocol that allows for the bi-directional exchange of data from sensors and devices. IO-Link features with Interface standard products are available by custom solutions request.

Primary 1200 and 1201 Series IO-Link Load Cell for Universal or Compression Only:

  • Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages
  • Eccentric load compensated
  • Low deflection
  • Shunt calibration
  • Tension and compression
  • Compact size
  • 3-wire internal amp choice of 4-20 mA, ±5V, ±10V, 0-5V, 0-10V

Available options include bases, custom calibration, multiple bridges, special threads and dual diaphragm. Accessories available are mating connectors, mating cables, instrumentation and loading hardware.

NEW PRODUCT! A4200 AND A4600 SIGNAL CONDITIONING OPTIONS FOR 3-WIRE AMPLIFIED LOAD CELLS AND IO-LINK DIGITAL LOAD CELLS

The Interface A4600 WeighCheck™ Load Cells and A4200 WeighCheck Load Cells now have custom signal conditioning features, including IO-Link Digital and 3-Wire Amplified by custom request. The customized A4200 and A4600 3-Wire Amplified Load Cells provide an internally amplified low profile load cell with a voltage or mA signal. This option eliminates the need for an external signal conditioner and comes scaled to the load cell and ready to use. A4200 and A4600 IO-Link Digital Load Cells with an industry standard M12 connector. IO-Link, a communication protocol used in industrial automation applications to connect sensors and actuators to control systems, offers increased flexibility, enhanced diagnostics, simplified wiring, improved efficiency, and lower costs. Read more here.

Primary A4200 and A4600 WeighCheck™ 3-Wire Amplified and IO-Link Digital Load Cells features and benefits:

  • Standard A4200 and A4600 capacity ranges from 2.5K to 50K lbf (11.1 to 222 kN)
  • High output – 4 mV/V
  • Self-centering in all directions
  • High safe side load – to 400%
  • Standardized output – ±0.1%
  • Zinc plated (A4200) or stainless steel (A4600)
  • Signal conditioner options
  • IO-Link digital option with M12 connector
  • 3-Wire amplified with a voltage or mA signal

NEW PRODUCT! TORQUE COUPLINGS FOR INTERFACE T8, T11 AND T25 TRANSDUCER MODELS

When you are selecting any of the Interface T8, T11 or T25 Torque Transducers, it is highly recommended to get the couplings that are designed for those specific models. Generic couplings can create issues in accuracy and performance, such as denting the disks or overcoming the frictional locking.  There are multiple options for each transducer model in a range of capacities.  View all coupling options here.

Primary Torque Coupling Options:

  • Floating Mount Single Flex Couplings
  • Floating Mount Clamping Ring Single Flex Couplings
  • Floating Mount Shrink Disk Single Flex Couplings
  • Floating Mount Keyed Single Flex Couplings
  • Pedestal Mount Keyed Double Flex Couplings
  • Pedestal Mount Double Flex Pedestal Mount Couplings
  • Pedestal Mount Clamping Ring Double Flex Couplings
  • Pedestal Mount Shrink Disk Double Flex Couplings

NEW PRODUCT! BX6-BT-OEM PORTABLE 6-CHANNEL HIGH SPEED BLUETOOTH DATA LOGGER

Interface’s BX6-BT-OEM is a 6-channel measuring amplifier with Bluetooth connection and data logger functionality in the smallest dimensions. The BX6-BT-OEM has six measurement channels. The first channel is for full-bridge strain gages, channels 2-6 are individually configurable as voltage input (single-ended) or strain gage bridge input including half and quarter bridge configuration. Channel 7 for acquiring digital pulses is available for connecting incremental encoders or as an input for square-wave signals. The measurement data can be recorded on a micro-SD memory card for continuous recording up to 3000 readings per second, long recording intervals with power management and digital input triggered recording. The recorded files can also be downloaded via Bluetooth SPP. A real-time clock creates timestamps the measurement data files. Ideallythe BX6-BT-OEM is paired with Interface’s 6-Axis Multi-Axis Series.

Primary BX6-BT OEM features and benefits:

  • 6-channels plus one encoder channel
  • 6-Axis Multi-Axis Sensor compatible with internal matrix calculation
  • Data logger up to 3,000/s
  • Embedded Bluetooth with 400-meter range
  • Six strain gage inputs: full bridge, half bridge, and quarter bridge plus bridge completion (1K, 350, 120 ohm)
  • Five single ended voltage inputs 0-10 VDC
  • 16-bit resolution
  • mV/V, VDC, counter, frequency, RPM, and angle inputs
  • Internal charging circuit (500 mA)
  • BlueDAQ logging and graphing software included
  • Digital inputs and outputs (trigger/tare/setpoints)
  • data logging features long recording intervals and power management
  • Micro-controller with scripting language for creating embedded applications
  • Log to SD card and BlueDAQ software

ADDITIONAL PRODUCT RESOURCES

Do you need help in selecting the right products for your upcoming testing programs and projects? We are available to help you choose the best products based on your unique requirements. If you have questions about these new products, capacities, capabilities, or specifications, please contact our application engineers.

Unlocking the Power of DAQ Webinar Recap

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Interface hosted a technical seminar on the topic of data acquisition systems. With the demands for more data and faster processing with requirements to connect multiple devices in testing environments, there is an increasing need for high accuracy DAQ systems. Keith Skidmore and Dave Reardon detail the basics of DAQ, trends, products, software options and answer to questions in the webinar, Unlocking the Power of DAQ.

To start, a data acquisition (DAQ) system consists of hardware and software components designed to collect, process, and analyze data from various sources and convert it into digital format for further analysis and storage.

Components of DAQ Systems

  • Input:  Sensors (Ex: Force, Torque), Digital Signals (Ex: DIO, Counters), Timing Signals (Ex: IRIG, GPS) and Serial Streams (Ex: RS-232, RS-422)
  • Signal Conditioning Circuitry: Excitation, Amplifier, Voltage Offsets, and Filters
  • Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADC)
  • Digital-to-Analog Converters (DAC)
  • Hardware and Software for processing, analyzing, display and recording
  • Output Signal: prior to ADC, after DAC, or even after processing

Analog data acquisition systems acquire and process analog signals. Analog signals can include sensors that measure load, force, torque, strain, temperature, pressure, voltage, current, and many other physical or electrical qualities.  Digital data acquisition systems acquire and process digital signals. Digital signals can include on and off states, counters, serial streams, text data, video, GPS signals, and other advanced options.

 Key Considerations for DAQ Systems

  • Features
    • Supported range of inputs mV/V, VDC, mA, partial bridge, encoder, pulse, frequency
    • Included software and related functionality
  • Form factor
    • Bench top, rack mount, portable, ruggedized and others
  • Sample rate
  • Connectivity
  • Power supply
  • Channel count and cost per channel

Interface DAQ Products

Interface offers a range of solutions for DAQ systems. The top products for DAQ include:

During the webinar, Keith and Dave detail a series of product groups for the Interface Data AQ Packs.

Data AQ Pack Brochure

Watch the webinar and learn more about product options, software, applications and best practice tips.

Innovative Interface Lifting Solutions

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Interface sensors are utilized in lifting applications to accurately measure the weight or force being exerted on the lifting equipment of all sizes. Our lifting solutions include load cells, load pins, tension links and shackles, wireless technologies, and instrumentation. It is common to see our sensors integrated into hoists, cranes, and lifting devices to provide precise load measurements.

Interface lifting solutions apply to a wide range of industries and settings, including construction sites, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, transportation, healthcare facilities, maritime docks, aircraft testing and assembly, and more. Lifting applications can vary, such as loading and unloading goods, positioning heavy equipment or machinery, transferring patients in healthcare settings, or lifting materials for construction purposes.

Our load cells, load pins and shackles assist in monitoring loads for heavy lifting equipment operators to remain within safe working limits and prevent overloading. Interface tension links and tension load cells are used for measuring lifting or pulling heavy loads with chains, cables, or ropes. The sensors measure the tension in the lifting element, providing feedback on the load being lifted and ensuring it remains within safe limits. Check out our Lifting Solutions Overview for complete details.

Top Interface Lifting Solutions

References of lifting equipment include cranes, hoists, forklifts, aerial work platforms, lifts, jacks, and various types of rigging and slings. These equipment types are designed to provide mechanical advantage, leverage, or power to lift, suspend, move, or position loads safely and efficiently. By leveraging sensor technologies, the benefits include increased safety for the operator, enhanced productivity, and efficiency optimization of load management. Additional benefits include predictive maintenance, plus smart and innovative utilization for modernization of projects and equipment.

Rigging engineers, whether working in testing environments from concert venues to rocket testing sites, use high-accuracy sensor technologies to ensure the safe and efficient movement of heavy equipment, machinery, and materials using cranes, hoists, pulleys, and other lifting devices. They are involved in the entire rigging process, from the initial assessment and design of rigging systems to overseeing the actual lifting operations.

Safety is of utmost importance in all lifting applications due to the potential risks associated with heavy loads, heights, and moving parts. The use of load monitoring devices such as load cells, tension links, load pins, or load shackles are critical to ensure the safe execution of lifting operations.

When Interface defines lifting applications, we are referring to the actions of objects, materials, or loads that are raised, lowered, or moved vertically or horizontally using lifting equipment or mechanisms. For use of our measurement solutions, these lifting applications involve the use of specialized equipment designed to safely and efficiently handle various types of loads.

In the construction industry, Interface load cells and load pins are integrated into smart cranes and construction equipment to provide real-time monitoring of the loads being lifted or carried. Lifting beams and spreader bars need high-accuracy measurement on the site. These sensors accurately measure the weight or force exerted on the equipment and provide data on the load’s status, ensuring safe operation within specified limits. This information can be used to prevent overloading, optimize load distribution, and enhance operational safety and prevent failure of any machinery.

Infrastructure demands durability, quality and accuracy of measurement. Interface load cells, tension links, load pins, and load shackles are employed in load testing applications to verify the strength and capacity of various lifting structures and equipment. They are used for a range of applications, including crane verification and safety monitoring, hoist monitoring, winch measurements, elevator suspension systems, lifting cables, overload alarms, and load testing. These tests measure the applied load and assess the structural integrity. Load cells or load shackles are often temporarily attached to lifting points or incorporated into the testing rig to capture accurate load data.

The maritime industry uses Interface measurement devices in crane systems, winches, and lifting equipment onboard ships, on offshore platforms, or vessels. These ruggedized and often submersible sensors ensure that loads are properly managed and controlled, enabling safe and efficient lifting operations in challenging marine environments. Check out this Boat Hoist application note.

Warehouses and logistics use load cells or load pins for shipping container handling, pallet weighing, conveyor systems and freight and cargo monitoring. The sensors can be easily integrated into forklifts to measure the weight of the lifted load, ensuring safe lifting, and preventing overloading.

Interface load cells and sensor technologies are also being used in applications for patient lifting and transfer. Load cells or load shackles can be integrated into patient lifting and transfer equipment, such as hoists or patient slings, hospital beds and therapy equipment. These sensors help monitor the load and ensure safe and comfortable transfers for patients and caregivers.

By integrating Interface solutions into lifting applications, the result is enhanced safety, improved efficiency, and optimization of load management. Real-time data from sensors allows for precise control, early detection of anomalies, and preventive maintenance, ensuring smooth and secure lifting operations, whether that is for a patient in a hospital or a cargo load moving from dock to ship.

Interface offers standard products for lifting, as well as custom and OEM lifting solutions.  Contact our application engineers to learn more about what type of lifting solution is best for your requirements.

Lifting Solutions Brochure

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Aircraft Engine Hoist

Theater Rigging System

Patient Hoyer Lift

IoT Lifting Heavy Objects App Note

Interface Solutions for Lifting Applications

Cranes and Lifting

Aircraft Lifting Equipment App Note

Aerial Lift Overload Control

Unlocking the Power of DAQ Webinar

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Interface webinar Unlocking the Power of DAQ details trends, best practices and considerations for using data acquisiton in force measurement applications. We explore DAQ instrumentation options, trends and set-up options. Learn why data acquisition systems are growing in popularity for all types of use cases. We also detail the new Interface Data AQ Packs and system options for capturing critical data. Watch the online technical seminar for recommendations on equipment, plus we answser the most frequently asked questions about DAQ in test and measurement.

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Interface New Product Releases Spring 2023

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Interface continues to expand our product offerings of force measurement solutions. We have added new high-accuracy load cells, Bluetooth data loggers, indicators and load cell base kits. The following product summaries highlight the latest additions, along with product features for each model.  We also have a new torque couplings technical guide.

In our Interface New Product Releases Winter 2023 updated, we featured our Pillow Block Load Bearing Load Cells (PBLC).  We are excited announce that our PBLC series are now available in multi-axis options. Reach out to our application engineers to learn more about Pillow Block Load Bearing Load Cells 2-Axis custom options.

If you have questions about our new products, capacities, capabilities, or application uses, please contact our application engineers.

SSLP STAINLESS STEEL LOW PROFILE UNIVERSAL LOAD CELL

The Interface Stainless Steel Low Profile Universal Load Cell SSLP model is a low profile, pancake-styled load cells. The internal construction is a diaphragm design, offering a lower cost solution with high natural frequency, low deflection and excellent resistance to side and torsion forces. There is an optional mounting base available, required if used in tension testing. It provides high stability and low height. The SSLP can be supplied calibrated as a complete system with associated instrumentation. View: SSLP Stainless Steel Low Profile Universal Load Cell

Primary SSLP features and benefits:

  • Capacities from 2.5 to 5000 kN (562 to 1,124K lbf)
  • Low profile with stainless steel construction
  • Environmentally sealed to IP67
  • Hose and conduit fitting at cable exit
  • High thermal stability
  • Base options, including custom bases and custom top plate
  • Load cap assembly optional
  • TED options
  • ATEX and submersible versions available
  • Options for internally amplified and multiple bridges

BX6-BT PORTABLE 6-CHANNEL HIGH-SPEED BLUETOOTH DATA LOGGER

Interface’s digital instrumentation data acquisition system BX6-BT Portable 6-Channel High Speed Bluetooth® Data Logger is a multi-channel measuring amplifier that offers a multitude of features in a convenient compact package. The BX6-BT first channel is for full-bridge strain gages, channels two through six are individually configurable as voltage input (single-ended) or strain gage bridge input, including half and quarter bridge configuration. View: BX6-BT Portable 6-Channel High Speed Bluetooth Data Logger

Primary BX6-BT features and benefits:

  • Simultaneous zeroing of all channels can be triggered via a digital input (tare)
  • Measurable temperature in the device and the battery voltage
  • Protected against vibration by full encapsulation housing
  • Configuration and acquisition of measurement data with BlueDAQ in the mode “BT Classic” with Serial Port Profiles (SPP)
  • Integrated Bluetooth module has its own microcontroller.
  • Connected 3.7V lithium-ion battery can be charged by an integrated charging circuit.
  • Power supply via a Li-Ion battery from 3.6V – 4.2V

9840C TEDS READ WRITE INTELLIGENT INDICATOR

Interface’s new digital instrumentation 9840C indicator is a CE compliant and versatile precision instrument intended for the digital readout of strain gage sensors, which includes load cells. It is TEDS Plug and Play Ready and IEE 1451.4 Compliant. View: 9840C TEDS Read/Write Intelligent Indicator

Primary 9840C Intelligent Indicator features and benefits:

  • Reads and writes calibration data and coefficients to the load cell
  • Stores load cell information and calibration data and coefficients for use with up to 20 load cells
  • 10-point linearization
  • Adjustable calibration curve
  • Bipolar and accepts 2, 3, and 4 mV/V load cell inputs
  • Remote sense excitation (6-wire load cells)
  • Fast direct analog output with +/-10 VDC scalable analog output — 16 bit
  • Full duplex RS232C communication
  • Eight selectable digital filters
  • Front panel shunt calibration with two selectable resistors

LOWPROFILE™ LOAD CELL BASE KITS

Interface’s standard LowProfile Load Cells are offered with bases. The base is a flat surface, guaranteed to provide optimum support for the flexure. Use of the base, or a support surface with its equivalent flatness and stability, is required to ensure the exceptional performance of the LowProfile® Series. Note that the threaded hole in the base is on center, and a plug is permanently installed to seal dirt and moisture out of the space between the bottom hub of the flexure and the flat surface of the base. Read more about the basics of base kits. View: LowProfile™ Load Cell Base Kits

Primary LowProfile Load Cell Base Kits features and benefits:

  • 14 model options in both U.S. and Metric thread
  • 15 stainless steel model options
  • Bases are all heat treated
  • High strength materials, including stainless steel options
  • Available in LowProfile standard sizes for Interface load cell models 1000, 1200, 2400, 3200
  • Standard thread size is the same as the mating load cell
  • Custom base options available
  • When the base and load cell are ordered together, a plug is supplied in both the cell and the base to prevent damage or errors caused by over engagement of mating parts

TORQUE COUPLINGS PLUS NEW TECHNICAL GUIDE

Interface is excited to introduce a complete summary catalog and technical guide of our extensive line of Torque ROBA® DS Couplings. These Interface torsional rigid shaft coupling transmits drive torques up to the nominal torque completely backlash-free and with permanently high torsional spring rigidity. Problems to be found on other commercially available couplings, such as denting the disks or overcoming the frictional locking, are not an issue when using our couplings. The specified shaft misalignments can be 100% utilized without affecting the transmittable torque. This guarantees unlimited use. View: Torque Couplings Technical Guide and Summary Catalog for all sizes, technical details, and installation instructions.

Primary Torque Couplings options and features:

  • Non-sensitive to alternating loads of up to 100% of the nominal torque
  • Low mass inertia due to high performance density
  • Completely backlash-free up to nominal torque
  • High misalignment compensation capability at low restoring forces
  • High torsional rigidity up to nominal torque
  • Completely wear and maintenance-free
  • Optimum construction shape due to large variant range

There are two main categories of couplings used in force measurement and the biggest difference in the two is the degree of freedom needed for the application. The categories are single-jointed and double-jointed. Read more in our Couplings 101 Series.

INF4-POWERLINK TWO, THREE, AND FOUR SENSOR WEIGHT TRANSMITTER AND INDICATOR

Expanding our INF4 series, we introduced the Interface INF4-POWERLINK Two, Three, and Four Sensor Weight Transmitter and Indicator. It has a six-digit red LED display (8 mm height), space saving compact design, four buttons for the system calibration. You can store up to 50 events, use multiple load cells in parallel and set alerts for value deviations. View: INF4-POWERLINK Two, Three, and Four Sensor Weight Transmitter and Indicator

Primary INF4-POWERLINK 2, 3 and 4 features and benefits:

  • Four independent channels for monitoring and direct management of individual load cells
  • Digital equalization
  • Four channel load distribution signaling with archive
  • Automatic diagnostics comparing recorded values plus alerts
  • Event log archives for calibrations, zero settings, errors, and equalizations
  • Excitation remote sense
  • 16 load cells in parallel
  • Tare weight zero setting, semi-automatic tare (net/gross weight) and predetermined tare
  • Connections to PLC via analog output or fieldbus and PC/PLC via RS485 up to 99 instruments with line repeaters, up to 32 without line repeaters
  • Direct connection between RS485 and RS232 without converter

INF1-POWERLINK SINGLE SENSOR WEIGHT TRANSMITTER AND INDICATOR

The INF1 series added the INF1-POWERLINK Single Sensor Weight Transmitter and Indicator. Like the version above, the options for this include a compact design, use with multiple load cells (up to 8) in parallel. View: INF1-POWERLINK Single Sensor Weight Transmitter and Indicator

Primary INF1-POWERLINK Single features and benefits:

  • Connection to PLC via analog output or fieldbus
  • PC/PLC via RS485 up to 99 instruments with line repeaters, up to 32 without line repeaters
  • Remote display via RS485
  • Excitation remote sense
  • Eight load cells in parallel
  • Digital filter to reduce the effects of weight oscillation
  • Theoretical calibration and real calibration with the possibility of weight linearization up to five points
  • Tare weight zero setting and automatic zero setting at power on

SPECIAL EVENT ALERT!

We are hosting Testing Lab Essentials: Today + Tomorrow on Thursday, April 6. We are diving into products and solutions used in all types of testing labs, along with tips and best practices for modernizing your test lab. Join the conversation.  All Interface webinars are recorded if you are not able to attend the live event.

ADDITIONAL PRODUCT RESOURCES

Interface is ready to help you get the exact product based on your unique requirements.  For engineered to order or custom solution options, please contact our experienced applications experts.