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New Interface Multi-Axis Sensor Selection Guide

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Interface multi-axis sensors have multiple benefits for test and measurement applications. Beyond providing more data, they consolidate measurement signals and conserve test space.

Interface multi-axis sensors are like other force and torque sensors with strain gage bridges bonded to machined flexures. Each bridge typically defines a measurement axis. Interface offers multiple configurations for 2, 3, or 6-axis options: axial and torque, axial and shear, axial and moment, and all six degrees.

Most force and torque sensors are bidirectional, tension, and compression. Many sensors can be dual or triple-bridge for dedicated or redundant signals. These types of load cells output the same signal and direction of measurement.

Uniquely, multi-axis sensors have additional bridges to provide output signals for varying axes or types of mechanical loading. Interface multi-axis sensors are designed to provide a complete picture of the test article by quantifying reaction loads through the test article on the “non-measure” side.

These specialized load cells are used in various applications across industries, including aerospace, robotics, automotive, and medical device research. These sensors are specifically designed for applications requiring measuring moment and axial loads to determine the center of gravity or misalignment. They are used for tests requiring simultaneous force and torque monitoring, such as bearing test and material test machines, rheometry test machines for rubber testing, or continuous stress testing of equipment like pumps and master key systems. The multi-axis sensor offers better fatigue testing through setup and load verification.

Below is a demonstration using Interface’s 6-Axis Sensor with our BX8 to measure the precise movements of a robotic hand.

For additional information on this type of application, check out Manufacturing: 6-Axis Force Plate Robotic Arm and Using Multi-Axis Sensors to Bring Robotics to Life.

Selecting a Multi-Axis Sensor

To find the suitable multi-axis sensor for your unique requirements, Interface’s latest resource guide is a versatile reference to compare the sensor types, features, capabilities, and options. The Interface Multi-Axis Sensor Selection Guide lets you quickly evaluate the various sensor types based on whether you need a 2-axis, 3-axis, or 6-axis. Reviewing the products based on features and capabilities is easy, including tension and compression, axial torsion, force and torque, side and radial force, compact, temperature compensated, moment compensated, flange mount, or a center through hole.

This new resourceful tool also helps in reviewing various options, including connector protection, connector options, standardized output, TEDS, CANbus, internal shunt cal, custom calibration, multiple bridges, special threads, dual-diaphragm, special temperature range, cable length, and more.

How the Multi-Axis Selection Guide Works

GO TO: Interface Multi-Axis Sensor Selection Guide

STEP ONE: Select the Number Of Axis You Want to Measure

STEP TWO: Identify Multi-Axis Sensor Features And Capabilities

  • Axial Torsion
  • Center Through Hole
  • Compact
  • Flange Mount
  • Force and Torque
  • High Capacity
  • Moment Compensated
  • Side and Radial Force
  • Temperature Compensated
  • Tension and Compression

STEP THREE: Choose the Multi-Axis Sensor Options

  • Active output ±10V
  • Active output ±5V
  • Add a connector to a cable
  • Cable length
  • CANbus
  • Connector options
  • Connector protection
  • Custom calibration
  • Dual diaphragm
  • Integrated speed and angle measurements option
  • Internal Shunt Cal
  • Mating cable assembly
  • Multiple bridges
  • Special temperature range
  • Special threads
  • Special versions on request
  • Speed up to 3000 rpm
  • Standardized output
  • TEDS

Interface a range of resources related to our multi-axis sensors.  Here is a recent webinar that helps give you a background on these sensors and applications and technical tips.

TIP: Find all of the Interface product guides here.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Multi-Axis Sensors Product Brochure

Enhancing Structural Testing with Multi-Axis Load Cells

A Promising Future in Measurement and Analysis Using Multi-Axis Sensors

Mounting Tips for Multi-Axis Sensors

Enhancing Friction Testing with Multi-Axis Sensors

Interface Multi-Axis Sensor Market Research

Dimensions of Multi-Axis Sensors – An Interface-Hosted Forum

Multi-Axis Sensors 101

Better Data and Performance with Interface Multi-Axis Sensors

Brochure: BX8 and 6-Axis

Small in Dimension and Precise in Measurement

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The world of force measurement is vast. Interface products are used across industries and in a wide range of applications. From the measurement of minute forces in catheter stint testing to jumbo load cells for massive structural testing of rockets, Interface load cells provide highly accurate measurement no matter the size of the load cell.

One of the many benefits of Interface products is the extensive range of measurement capacities and dimensions we offer, including our Mini Load Cells used for small and precise measurements. Interface Mini™ load cells are ideal for light touch, weight, or limited space test and measurement applications. The Mini Load Cells provide remarkably accurate measurements like our LowProfile load cells. With capacities available as low as 0.11 lbf / 0.5 N and as high as 100 kN, there are various miniature load cells for testing and options for custom OEM solutions.

TIP: Explore your options with our Mini Load Cell Selection Guide

Typical applications for measuring tiny, accurate forces are within the medical, manufacturing, robotics, and consumer product industries.

Medical device manufacturers are working to provide handheld point-of-care devices for patients. Additionally, medical devices used within the human body must provide extremely delicate forces to achieve their intended purpose without harming the patient.

Take something that seems relatively simple, like a vascular clamp. These types of delicate instruments are used on heart valves. If they provide too little force, they cannot do their job. However, providing too much force could severely harm the patient. Medical device manufacturers of these surgical tools use miniature load cells to measure the clamping force to ensure precise accuracy to toe the line between too much and too little force, which is a very precise number.

In the pharmaceutical industry, very small load cells are crucial for accurately measuring the force applied to the pills (tablets) during the press marking phase and other manufacturing processes to ensure consistent dosage and tablet integrity.

With consumer products, precision force measurement is critical to various manufacturing processes and real-time monitoring. A load button load cell is the right size for testing the durability of a smart device by applying a force to the screen and measuring the amount of force the screen can withstand before cracking or breaking. Read: Touchscreen Force Testing App Note

A miniature load cell can measure the force required to open a food package. This information can be used to ensure that the packaging is easy for consumers to open and secure enough to protect the food from damage. In food processing, load cells measure the force applied to food during mixing, blending, and other processes to ensure consistent product quality and prevent damage to the food itself. For instance, load cells can monitor the force applied to a dough mixer to ensure the dough is correctly mixed without becoming overworked or tough.

MINIATURE LOAD CELLS FOR SMALLER, MORE PRECISE FORCE MEASUREMENT APPLICATIONS

CONVEXBT LOAD BUTTON LOAD CELL

ConvexBT Load Button Load CellThe ConvexBT Load Button Load Cell is superior to any other load button. Constructed from heat-treated stainless steel and environmentally sealed with integral temperature compensation. Learn more about ConvexBT on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/l4xEKNjKREw

  • 5 lbf to 1,000 lbf, 22.24 N to 4.44 N
  • Integral temperature compensation
  • Enhanced eccentric load rejection
  • Multi-point calibration
  • Integral load button
  • Minimal diameter

SMTM MICRO S-TYPE LOAD CELL

Model SMTM is the miniature overload-protected S-type load cell and is excellent to use where size is a constraint.

  • Capacity 5, 25, 50 lbf (20, 100, 200N)
  • It can be used in tension and compression
  • Micro-sized 3/4” x 3/4” x 1/4”
  • Excellent temperature compensation (0.005%/°F Temp Effect on Output)
  • Overload protected

SUPERSC S-TYPE MINIATURE LOAD CELL

The SuperSC is an economical general-purpose load cell with a high force in a compact design. The SuperSC is environmentally sealed and insensitive to off-axis loading. The proprietary form factor is 80% smaller and 50% lighter than other models of s-type load cells. READ: New Technical White Paper Analyzes SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cells

  • 25 to 1000 lbf (100 N to 5 kN)
  • High force in a compact design
  • Environmentally sealed
  • High stiffness
  • Low deflection

ULC ULTRA LOW CAPACITY LOAD CELL

ULC ULTRA LOW CAPACITY LOAD CELL

The Interface model ULC is the world’s most accurate ultra-low capacity load cell measuring loads from 0.1 to 2 N (10.2 grams to 500 gmf).

  • Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages
  • Highest performance low capacity load cell in the world
  • Overload protected
  • Safe side load overload to 5X capacity
  • Low extraneous load sensitivity
  • Low-temperature effect on zero (0.002%/°F)
  • Tension and Compression
  • 5 ft integral cable included

MBP OVERLOAD PROTECTED MINIATURE BEAM LOAD CELL

Model MBP series load cells perform similarly to the famous Model MB series with the added safeguard of internal overload protection.

  • 5 lbf to 10 lbf
  • Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages
  • 10x overload protection
  • Low height – 0.99 in (25.1 mm)
  • 0008%F temp. effect on output
  • 5′ Integral Cable (custom lengths available upon request)
  • NIST Traceable Calibration Certificate

SMALL AND PRECISE MEASUREMENT APPLICATIONS

SPECIMEN RESEARCH

In the medical industry, medical experts need the best equipment to research multiple specimens. In this case, a medical researcher needs to monitor the load force of their linear actuator that uses a needle to collect material from the desired specimen. Interface’s SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell can easily be installed into the linear test stand. A needle with a gripper on the end is installed on the lower end of the SuperSC. As the needle is pushed to collect specimen material, the load feedback is captured using the 9330 Battery Powered High-Speed Data Logging Indicator through an SD card or another laptop. Read: Specimen Research App Note

AIRBAG CONNECTOR TESTING

Testing airbag connectors functionality is needed to ensure perfect deployment in case of a car crash. Eight to twelve connectors are installed in each vehicle, and tests must be made to clarify whether the connectors are working effectively. These connectors usually work when latched, but that does not ensure the electrical properties are performing. The amount of force needs to be tested to see when an electrical current is connected. Interface’s solution is to attach the WMC Sealed Stainless Steel Miniature Load Cell to the actuator of the test rig. The airbag connector is placed at the test rig’s bottom. Forces are applied and measured using the 9330 High-Speed Data Logger as the connector is pushed down to latch together. When connected to a computer, results can be logged, downloaded, and reviewed.

COBOT MONITORING SYSTEM

Collaborative robots, or cobots, are offering more manufacturing operations in the industrial packaging industry. Protective cages or fences are no longer needed for safety purposes, but safety testing is still required to ensure humans and robots can work together. Four 3-axis Force Load Cells (creating one 6-axis Force Plate) are installed between two metal plates at the base of the cobot. Interface suggests installing a 6-axis force plate under the cobot and two ConvexBT Load Button Load Cells in the pinchers of the cobot. If a human were to knock into the cobot or have any object stuck in the pincher, the cobot would sense the force measured from the load cells and be programmed to stop immediately.

Interface can serve a wide range of test and measurement applications from millions of pounds force to the most minute. If you want sensors with small, more precise measurement capabilities, please check out our miniature load cell selection guide.

Interface Load Cells for Press Machines

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Press machines are designed to measure and apply force for various reasons. Hydraulic presses can be used to shape materials or crush objects. Stamping presses make a visible impression or stamp onto materials, such as a pharmaceutical tablet or logo on a food product. Even sandwich presses follow many of the characteristics of more industrial presses.

Press machines are used across automotive, aerospace, construction, consumer goods, medical, agriculture, mining, and other industries.  The presses produce consistent, cost-effective quality parts, tools, and products. No matter what kind of press machine, it must undergo rigorous testing during the machine-building process. During operation, there must be continuous monitoring of the press force used in each application.

NEW! Interface Solutions for Machine Builders

Interface load cells are critical to designing, testing, and using accurate and reliable press machinery. Interface load cells come in various shapes, dimensions, and capacities, allowing press machine builders and engineers to find the best solution for their specific machinery use case. Whether selecting a miniature load button load cell for a small press test or our WMC Load Cell to integrate into the machine, Interface has a range of products for press machine applications.

Benefits of using load cells in press machines:

  • Enhance Operator Safety
  • Prevention of Overloading
  • Improve Consistency
  • Avoid Damage to Equipment
  • Reduce Waste and Scrap
  • Increase Quality and Consistency of Work Product
  • Improve Process Control
  • Extend the Life of the Machine’s Operation
  • Increase Productivity

In a press machine test, the load cell is typically placed between the ram of the press and the die, where it can measure the force being applied to the object. The load cell is usually connected to a readout or display showing the operator the force applied to the part or material. This readout may be a simple analog or digital display, depending on the specific press and load cell being used in the machine. Review our Instrumentation Selection Guide to find the best option for your press.

There are numerous options for the types of load cells used for press machine applications. Hydraulic presses are some of the most common presses that use load cells. These machines are often built to form metal parts, such as gears, shafts, and bearings. The construction industry uses presses to assemble and test concrete structures. These presses are designed to crush and process minerals and ore in mining.

Mechanical presses are typically used for high-precision applications, such as metal stamping and forming. Miniature load cells are used in more precise applications that require smaller measurements. These use cases are often reserved for the medical or consumer goods industry, where the goal is to provide a stamping force for medicine or candy to label the product without crushing or damaging it. A precision Interface load cell ensures that the force applied to the material is consistent and accurate.

Another type of press using a sensor is known as a screw press which forms and compacts materials such as plastic and rubber. These press machines are found in chemical, food, and waste processing facilities.

Depending on the measurement capacity needed in the machine’s application, two popular Interface options are the Rod End Load Cells and Mini WMC Sealed Stainless Steel Load Cells. A rod end load cell is typically installed at the end of the piston or ram, where it can measure the tension or compression force being applied during the pressing operation.  These load cells provide accurate and reliable force measurement in various presses.

Press Forming and Load Monitoring

Press forming is a method to deform different materials. For instance, materials such as steel can be bent, stretched, or formed into shapes. A force measurement solution is required to monitor the forces being applied by the press-forming machine. This ensures quality control and traceability during the production process. Interface recommended installing the 1000 High Capacity Fatigue-Rated LowProfile™ Load Cell for large press forming machines. When the material is placed under the punch plate to form a shape, the 1000 series load cell measures the force applied. The captured force results were sent to the INF-USB3 Universal Serial Bus Single Channel PC Interface Module, where results could be graphed and logged on the customer’s PC using the provided software. Interface’s force measurement products and instrumentation accurately monitored and logged the force results of the press force machine, ensuring zero-error production performance.

Tablet Forming Machine Optimization

A pharmaceutical tablet producer wanted to monitor the forces the tablet forming machine applied to understand the relationship between raw material, die set, form, force, and the motor’s cycle speed. The goal was to improve the productivity and efficiency of the tablet-forming process while reducing losses (i.e., cracked tablets or voids) by adding a dimension of feedback that could be used to assign specific press adjustment criteria for given inputs. An Interface Model WMC Sealed Stainless Steel Mini Load Cell (10K lbf Capacity) was mounted in the section of the downward press bar. The machine was modified to accomplish this. The load cell was then connected to a Model 9320 Portable Load Cell Indicator to collect the needed data. After analyzing the data, the tablet producer could quantify adjustment levels by monitoring which forces produced optimal results for a given cycle speed, die set, and raw material. The enhancement of the data feedback significantly improves productivity and efficiency.

Candy Stamp Force Testing

Manufacturers of hard-shell candies often stamp text or logos on the candy shells. Stamping too hard breaks the candy shell and stamping too light results in an uneven or incomplete imprint. Using a test apparatus with an Interface Model WMC Mini Load Cell attached to hydraulic actuators was discovered to be an accurate way to measure the compression force required. Engineers determined the specific force needed to properly apply the imprint without breaking the candy shell using this solution.

Using Interface load cells on a press machine is a valuable investment that can help to improve the quality of the products being produced, extend the life of the press machine, and reduce the risk of accidents.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Press Forming and Load Monitoring

Press Load Monitoring App Note

Hydraulic Press Machines and Load Cells

Metal Press Cutting Machine

Interface Solutions for Machine Builders

Force Measurement Sensors are Essential to Modern Industrial Machinery

 

Giving Thanks to You

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In the whirlwind of daily activities, from calibrating load cells to machining a flexure, Interface wants to take a minute from the hustle to express our unwavering gratitude. For 55 years, thousands upon thousands have graced our path. Everyone that we have encountered in this journey makes an impact. We learn from you. You inspire us. Your success drives us.

At Interface, we believe that gratitude is more than a polite gesture. It’s a powerful force that can transform our lives and our world.

We want to take a moment to express our tremendous gratitude to our incredible test and measurement community. To our customers, partners, suppliers, representatives, team members, and extended Interface family, we say thank you.

As an expression of giving thanks, we came up with a list of why we are so thankful today and every day. We selected these as our 10 reasons to say thanks out of the hundreds of expressions.

1. For letting us be part of your test and measurement plan

2. For putting your trust in our products and services

3. For sharing your feedback and insights

4. For helping us create solutions that truly matter to you

5. For challenging us to improve constantly

6. For providing different perspectives and experiences, which makes Interface a truly vibrant and innovative company

7. For an unwavering dedication and commitment to requiring accuracy and quality

8. For asking questions and seeking answers to ensure we provide the right support

9. For working together to find the best solutions

10. For being a part of the Interface extended family

There are a thousand more reasons and expressions. Ultimately, it’s simply two words for us: thank you. You are the driving force behind our success, and we are deeply grateful for every one of you.

We are in a perpetual cycle to learn and do what matters most. This past month, we asked how to help improve our semi-annual customer survey. It is through this and our ongoing conversations that we get valuable information on how to best be of service to you. We did learn some interesting bits of information. The overwhelming majority of our customers are engineers and technicians. About 10% are metrologists. In the survey, you let us know the most important online resources are our specification datasheets, troubleshooting resources, and technical library. Here is a quick list based on the Interface Fall 2023 Survey feedback.

CUSTOMER PICKS FOR TOP 10 INTERFACE ONLINE RESOURCES

We will be closed for Thanksgiving and the day that follows. In celebration of our upcoming holiday, we will continue to reflect on ways we can continue to say thanks.

With gratitude, The Interface Team

Enhancing Structural Testing with Multi-Axis Load Cells

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Multiple industries use structural tests for quality control, regulatory requirements, failure analysis, predictive maintenance, design and performance verification, and safety assurance.

Structural tests measure the tension, design proofing, and lifecycle fatigue validation. Load cells provide valuable measurement data in structural testing. These tests apply to assessing the structural components for rockets, aircraft, automobiles, EV batteries, heavy equipment, and infrastructure projects.

There are times when more data is valuable beyond a standard load cell. Multi-axis sensors are essential tools for structural testing, providing valuable insights into the behavior of structures under various loading conditions. These sensors measure forces in multiple directions, enabling engineers to identify potential weaknesses, assess structural integrity, and optimize designs.

Multi-axis sensors offer several technical advantages for structural testing compared to traditional single-axis load cells. Interface’s 2-axis, 3-axis, and 6-axis load cells are all excellent options for structural testing.

TIP:  Use the new Interface Multi-Axis Selection Guide to evaluate the different designs, capacities, and capabilities quickly.

Primary Benefits of Using Multi-Axis Load Cells for Structural Testing

  • Extensive data acquisition: The primary advantage of multi-axis sensors is they can simultaneously measure forces in multiple directions, thoroughly analyzing the force distribution on a structure.
  • Improvements to structural design: The data obtained from multi-axis sensors can be used to refine structural design models, leading to more robust, efficient, and safe structures.
  • Reduction in complexity: Multi-axis load cells can replace multiple single-axis load cells, simplifying test setups and reducing the required data channels. The benefits are saving time during test setup and data analysis.
  • High accuracy: Multi-axis load cells are designed to minimize crosstalk between axes, ensuring accurate measurements even when forces are applied in multiple directions, which is critical in structural test data.
  • Early detection of structural issues: Using multi-axis sensors can help to identify subtle changes in structural behavior that may indicate early signs of damage or deterioration, allowing for timely intervention.
  • Versatile measurement device: Multi-axis load cells are used in various structural testing applications, including complex force distributions and dynamic loading conditions, making them versatile tools for structural and civil engineers.
  • Compact form factor: Interface multi-axis load cells are dimensionally suited for testing structures with limited space constraints.

During the Inventive Multi-Axis and Instrumentation Webinar, our application engineers shared significant technical benefits of multi-axis sensors. Watch the full recorded technical seminar here.

  • Improved understanding of reaction loads at boundary conditions
  • Transmissive loads through DUT
  • Bending and side loads
  • Force vector and center of force
  • Boundary load condition verification
  • Expansion of existing test methods

Applications of Multi-Axis Sensors in Structural Testing

Structural health monitoring: These sensors are used to continuously monitor the condition of structures, identifying early signs of damage or deterioration.

Bridge testing: Multi-axis sensors measure bridges’ load distribution and stress levels during various loading scenarios, ensuring their structural integrity.

Aircraft testing: These sensors measure aircraft structures’ aerodynamic forces and vibration response, ensuring their safety and performance.

Civil engineering testing: Multi-axis sensors are employed in testing a wide range of civil engineering structures, including buildings, dams, and offshore platforms. Visit: Infrastructure Solutions

Multi-axis load cells are an ideal technical solution for structural testing because they can simultaneously measure forces in multiple directions, reduce complexity, and improve accuracy. These versatile sensors can be used in structural testing and ongoing structural monitoring.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Multi-Axis Sensor Application Notes

Interface Solutions for Structural Testing

Structural Testing Overview

Modernizing Infrastructure with Interface Sensor Technologies

Interface and Infrastructure Markets Form a Perfect Partnership

Electric Vehicle Structural Battery Testing

Outlining Force Solutions for Structural Outrigging

Performance Structural Loading

Rocket Structure Testing

 

New Additions to LCM Systems

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In June 2023, Interface announced the acquisition of LCM Systems, the maker of specialized load measurement and instrumentation systems. We want to recognize LCM’s newest leaders, Jeff Williams, managing director, and Rob Cooch, production and operations manager, along with key team member Chloé Baile, who is LCM’s new strategic sales engineer.

LCM Systems has seen significant growth across all levels of its business over the past few years. The manufacturer of Interface’s load pins, load shackles, and various custom solutions reports a positive development in terms of exceeding 2023 goals before the year-end. In keeping up with the pace of growth, LCM has invested in key talent to improve production and calibration resources.

Interface CEO Greg Adams notes, “LCM Systems is an outstanding addition to Interface as demonstrated by the growth in 2023, which exceeds our target and is further evidence of the outstanding team, product, and service offerings in high demand. We are extremely confident in the additions of Jeff, Rob, and Chloé to LCM System and their experience in serving as key catalysts to the expansion in business, high-quality measurement solutions, and additional new markets and customers.”

The people below represent key leadership, additions to the team, and expanding roles. Read the full news update here.

Jeff Williams, Managing Director, LCM Systems

Jeff joined Interface in September 2023 and has taken on the role of managing director, where he is responsible for sales, operations, engineering, quality, and supply chain. He has more than 35 years in the electronics and engineering space, and before joining LCM, he served for 10 years as group head of engineering at Flintec. Jeff also spent 24 years in engineering and management roles at Hitachi Home Electronics & Panasonic AVC Design Centre. He offers extensive experience and strategic skills essential to expanding LCM and fulfilling growing customer requests and orders.

Rob Cooch, Production and Operations Manager, LCM Systems

Rob joined LCM in October 2023 as production and operations manager. He is responsible for overseeing the production process and coordinating all activities, day-to-day scheduling of production, and managing the department consisting of eight operators across two areas. Before joining LCM, Rob was a member of a cross-functional team looking at NVA, which significantly reduced build time and manufacturing costs through various lean changes in production. Rob’s role is key in helping LCM fulfill the demands for its products with a highly skilled operations team.

Chloé Baile, Strategic Sales Engineer, LCM Systems

Chloé joined LCM in October 2023 as a strategic sales engineer. Her responsibilities in this role include building effective, strong relationships with key decision-makers of customer accounts and retaining and nurturing business growth. She liaises between customers and LCMs engineering design experts to create optimum solutions. Before joining LCM, her experience was predominantly in the automotive industry. She led engineering business development and was project manager for special Tier 1 Automotive, F1, and Motorsport projects, including Classic Heritage for Aston Martin, Ferrari, Lotus, and Jaguar Land Rover. She is working closely with Interface and LCM customers to grow the business.

Another key appointment at LCM this year is Mark Capodici, who recently joined the LCM Calibration Department full-time as a calibration technician. This critical addition to the team dramatically increases the company’s calibration resources, vital to maintaining LCM’s ability to dispatch products on time and in a timescale that fits customer expectations. Capodici joined LCM Systems three years ago, starting as a supply chain and fulfillment assistant responsible for general store activities, kitting of production materials, and processing and inspection. Capodici sees his role change as a great opportunity to progress within the company and broaden his knowledge and skill set.

“LCM Systems continues to invest in additional personnel and equipment to meet the growing demand, as evidenced in our new members and recent promotions,” said Jeff Williams. “We are committed to providing our customers outstanding service and ensuring orders are fulfilled expeditiously, maintaining our high standards, quality, and accuracy of every product we manufacture.”

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Uses Cases for Load Pins

Innovative Interface Load Pin Applications

Load Pin Configuration Submission

Interface Engineered Solutions for Lifting Webinar Recap

Load Pins 101

Load Pins, Tension Links, and Shackles

Load Pin Brochure Pages

 

Load Cells Built for Stress Testing

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Stress testing with load cells is an integral part of research, design, and manufacturing processes for various products and components. It helps to ensure that material, equipment, and final products can withstand the stresses they will be subjected to in regular use.

Stress testing with load cells involves applying a known load to a test specimen and measuring the resulting strain. The strain is then used to calculate the stress, which measures the force per unit area.

For destructive stress testing, the test specimen is loaded to failure. The failure load is then used to calculate the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the material. In non-destructive testing, the test specimen is loaded to a predetermined stress level and then unloaded. The stress-strain curve is then plotted to determine Young’s modulus and the yield strength of the material.

Selecting the right load cell for any stress testing protocol is important. A detailed review of the sensor’s performance specifications is where to start. Consider the quality of the load cell, along with the materials used to build the testing device and the strain gages.

In designing and building load cells, material composition and build quality play a critical role in the quality, accuracy, and overall lifetime of a load cell. This is especially true when testing involves long, stress-test cycle testing. Interface load cells are designed for optimum fatigue life.

Built for Stress

When looking for a load cell that needs to go the distance over long periods, it’s essential to understand the difference between sensors built for stress and those not. In materials science, the S-N curve is a well-known tool. It is a graphical representation of the number of load cycles required to break a specimen at the range of peak cyclic stress levels.  S-N curves for the high-quality materials used in Interface load cells determine the stress level.

Commonly selected load cells used for high-stress level testing are known as fatigue-rated. Fatigue-rated load cells are designed explicitly for component durability and fatigue test machines where highly cyclical loading is present. These quality load cells resist extraneous bending and side-loading forces.

The table below outlines a load cell strain and safety factor comparison chart, which shows how Interface load cells, including our  1000 Fatigue-Rated Universal LowProfile® Load Cell and 1000 High Capacity Fatigue-Rated Universal LowProfile® Load Cell stack up against generic competitive load cells.

This table compares actual strain levels in Interface LowProfile Load Cells versus generic load cells. The safety factors are a means of visualizing the merit of the various designs. The value of fatigue-rated load cells for fatigue applications is evident from the safety factor data. It is also apparent that Interface load cells with 4 mV/V output have lower stress levels and, therefore, more fatigue resistance than other cells, even though their output is only 3 mV/V or less.

Lower Stress by User Limits

Note that the tests in the safety factor comparison are based on fully reversed load cycles. This type of loading cycle is considerably more stringent than unidirectional loading, which is the more common application of load cells. Suppose a fatigue load cell is repeatedly loaded in only one direction. In that case, the Goodman Law predicts that it can be loaded to about 133% of the bidirectional fatigue-rated capacity with no degradation of its fatigue rating. Conversely, unidirectional loading to a fatigue cell’s rated capacity is much less stressful on the cell than bidirectional. It can be expected to yield a fatigue life well beyond the number of cycles that could be reasonably and economically applied in a verification test program. For additional information on this topic, please refer to Interface’s Load Cell Field Guide under Fatigue Theory.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Fatigue Testing with Interface Load Cells

Beam Stress Test

Force Measurement is Fundamental in Material Testing

Test and Measurement Solutions

LowProfile Load Cells 101

Stainless Steel Load Cells 101

Interface Column Load Cells

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A column load cell is a type of load cell designed with a cylindrical or column-shaped housing. It is typically used in applications where the load or force is applied vertically, and the sensor is installed in a way that the load is directed along the central axis of the column.

Interface column load cells are often used for vertical force measurement applications, including weighing scales, silos, structural tests, and thrust testing. Column load cells are rugged, providing a more durable solution for exposure to environmental conditions. Interface column load cells are typical for high-capacity thrust and structural testing.

A column load cell, by design, handles higher axial (vertical) loads while maintaining accuracy and reliability. Column load cells are designed for vertical force measurement. They are more robust, durable, and often larger than a standard canister load cell.

Canister load cells are typically more compact, making them a good choice for applications with limited space and where easy installation is a priority. A LowProfile “pancake style” load cell is compact and flat, with a lower height than column load cells. LowProfiles are the most popular Interface design of a load cell due to their versatility. The choice between using a column load cell, canister style load cell, or LowProfile depends on the specific needs of the application, capacity, environment, and dimensions.

Popular Interface Column Load Cells

Interface Column Load Cells are available in high capacities, in both tension and compression, as well as compression-only options.

2160 HIGH-CAPACITY COLUMN LOAD CELL

The Interface 2160 High Capacity Column Load Cell offers high performance and highly durable design. It is typically used in high-force measurement applications. It has capacities up to one million lbf (4450kN), with custom options to go higher.

  • Performance to ±0.15% FS
  • Standard capacities of 300K lbf to 1000K lbf (1334 kN to 4448 kN)
  • Screw-in Handles
  • Tension and compression measurement
  • Standardized output
  • ASTM E74 calibration
  • Special thread size
  • Dimensionally compact
  • Multiple bridge

SPECIAL NOTE: Why choose a tension and compression column load cell? It’s based on the use case. Weighing of objects that can be subjected to both tension and compression forces, such as aircraft and vehicles. Force measurement in applications where both tension and compression forces are present, such as cable tension testing and load-bearing applications

2161 HIGH-CAPACITY COLUMN COMPRESSION ONLY LOAD CELL

The Interface High Capacity Column Compression-Only Load Cell Model 2161 is applicable for high-capacity compression-only measurement applications. It is available in capacities from 300K to 1000K (1335 to 4450 kN). Options are available for a 2nd bridge.

  • Standard capacities of 300K lbf to 1000K lbf (1334 kN to 4448 kN)
  • Performance to ±0.15% FS
  • Compression-only
  • Standardized output
  • ASTM E74 calibration
  • Handles for easy movement and lifting
  • Accessories, including cables and mating connectors

2200 CALIBRATION COLUMN LOAD CELL

The Interface high accuracy 2200 Calibration Column Load Cell is a guided column design. It is lightweight and portable for use in the field. It measures tension and compression. Their high performance and capacity make them excellent for calibrating in aerospace, industrial, and manufacturing labs.

  • Capacities from 100K – 200K lbf (445kN – 889kN)
  • Performance to <0.10%FS
  • Quadruple the gages of the standard column cell
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Various models, including the 2230 and 2240, are available.
  • Compression-only available
  • Standardized output
  • ASTM E74 calibration
  • Special thread size

2300 HIGH CAPACITY FLANGE MOUNT COLUMN LOAD CELL

The Interface High Capacity Flange Mount Column Load Cell 2300 Series is a column design with a flange mount for easy installation. It is available in capacities of 630 kN (140K lbf), 1000 kN (225K lbf), and 2000 kN (450K lbf) and has options available for a 2nd bridge.

  • Accuracy class 0.05% FS
  • Tension and compression
  • Low profile and low mass
  • Fixed cable or plug connection
  • Flange mounted
  • Easy installation
  • Optional redundancy with a dual bridge for axial force measurement
  • Option for TEDS calibration IEEE 1451.4
  • Models 2330, 2340, and 2350 are available.

Column Load Cell Applications

Column load cells are a viable option for diverse applications across various industries, from rocket tests to construction monitoring equipment. Their ability to accurately measure force and withstand harsh environments makes them a valuable tool for ensuring safety, efficiency, and quality.

Aerospace: In the aerospace industry, column load cells measure the weight of aircraft during loading and unloading, ensuring proper weight distribution and safe flight operations. These rugged load cells are a common feature of thrust test stands.

Infrastructure: Many infrastructure projects rely on column load cells. They are embedded in structures, such as bridges, buildings, and equipment like cranes, to monitor load distribution and prevent overstress or collapse of critical infrastructure. For example, column load cells can test the axial load-bearing capacity of piles, ensuring the stability of foundations and structures.

Machinery and Storage: In agricultural and industrial use cases, column load cells monitor the weight of silos, tanks, and hoppers containing materials. By installing column load cells beneath these containers, you can continuously measure the weight of the contents for storage and process control, allowing operators to track material levels and prevent overfilling or underfilling, which can lead to production issues and safety concerns.

Weighing Systems: Column load cells are commonly used in industrial weighing systems, such as platform scales, floor scales, and truck scales. These load cells are placed under the platform on which the objects or materials are placed for weighing. A logistics warehouse installs column load cells within the floor scales for accurately measuring the weight of pallets or goods. This is valuable data for storage, inventory management, and shipping.

Construction: Material testing and quality control applications use column load cells to measure compressive forces. In a construction material test lab, these load cells can be integrated into testing machines to evaluate the compressive strength of concrete, bricks, or other construction materials.

Energy: Renewable energy use cases for column load cells include measuring the loads exerted on wind turbine towers, ensuring structural integrity, and preventing damage during high winds. Column load cell are also used in field testing for extraction equipment.

Is a column load cell right for your use case?  Contact our application engineers to explore your options.

Digging Into Interface Mining Industry Solutions

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Sensors are integral to ensuring the safety of mines, including underground, open surface, placer, dredging, highwall, mountaintop, and in-situ. However, one of the most valuable uses for Interface sensor technologies is assuring that equipment is adequately tested, controlled, and monitored to ensure safe operations.

The mining industry is wrought with hazards and extreme environments that can put a job site at risk and, more critically, endanger miners’ lives. Mining equipment and tools manufacturers turn to Interface for various transducers designed for use in unique and hazardous environments. These measurement instruments are essential in meeting the rising safety requirements of the mining industry and significantly improve the quality and reliability of mining equipment.

Interface force and torque measurement products help to efficiently and safely extract and process metals, gemstones, limestone, chalk, coal, oil shale, dimension stone, rock salt, potash, gravel, and clay.

Interface products are essential for designing, testing, and utilizing mining equipment, machines, components, and systems. Our load cells, instrumentation, torque transducers, multi-axis sensors, load shackles, and tension links are used in tools and equipment for the mining industry.

The data gathered from Interface measurement solutions ultimately helps monitor the mine’s structural supports, optimize digging and lifting processes, reduce wear and tear on equipment, and prevent overloading, which can lead to costly downtime and maintenance. This data is typically gathered throughout one of two stages of the product cycle: during thorough product testing or while monitoring the product in real-time. The mining industry heavily utilizes both use cases.

For example, Interface load cells are used for conveyor systems, which rely on force measurement to monitor the tension and load on conveyor belts. Load cells can also be installed on mining shovels, draglines, and excavators to measure the load on the buckets or booms.

Excavator Test and Measurement Applications

Load cells and torque transducers are used to test the performance of excavators. This includes testing the excavator’s digging force, lifting capacity, and swing torque. An Interface load cell can accurately measure the force exerted by the excavator’s bucket as it digs into the ground. The measurement data provides information to determine if the excavator has sufficient digging force to complete the task. Our torque transducers are helpful in accurately measuring the swing torque of the excavator to assess that there is adequate torque to swing the boom and bucket safely and efficiently.

Mining Equipment Design and Testing

Load cells and torque transducers are valuable in the design of mining and excavation equipment. The precision of Interface’s LowProfile Load Cells accurately measures the forces acting on different parts of the equipment, such as the boom, bucket, and undercarriage. The measurement data during extensive testing can also help determine how to optimize the equipment. Our Mini Load Cells, like the SSMH Sealed Hazardous Environment Intrinsically Safe S-Type Load Cell, can be integrated into mining equipment and tools for continuous monitoring and safety alarms to protect from overloading. Torque transducers can measure the torque requirements of different equipment components, such as the rotary drive and swing drive. This information can be used to design more powerful and efficient components.

Monitoring the Safety and Regulation of Cranes

Mining operations worldwide rely on cranes, lifting equipment, and heavy-duty vehicles. This equipment requires rigorous testing of every component and continuous monitoring to safeguard the equipment and, more importantly, operators.

In this video application, the customer verified if the crane is safe and functional enough to lift its working load limit (WLL) or safe working load (SWL) capacity. Using the Interface Model WTSATL-JR Aluminum Compact Wireless Tension Link Load Cell, they can measure the load’s maximum capacity. The WTS-RM1 Wireless Relay Output Receiver Modules can also trigger an alarm that can be set when it reaches the maximum capacity of weight and force. The data is transmitted and can be reviewed with the WTS-BS-1-HS Wireless Handheld Display or on a computer.

See how our measurement solutions are used for crane capacity verification.

Interface offers an intrinsically safe lineup of products designed for rugged and extreme conditions that are of great value in the mining industry. These specialized load cells and force measurement solutions are designed and manufactured so that the materials and electronic components are safe for use in hazardous gas and dust environments when installed per applicable installation instructions. These components play an integral role in the safety of those working in dangerous environments, particularly in natural resource industries like oil, gas, forestry, and mining.

To learn more about our products used in the mining and natural resource industries, contact Interface Application Engineers. They are ready to answer your questions and find the correct measurement solution for your requirements.