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New Interface Accessories Selection Guide

Interface Accessories support full functionality and accurate use of your Interface equipment, including calibration systems, instrumentation, load cells, and torque transducers.

We provide various sensors, instrumentation, and calibration accessories, from shielded cables, mating connectors, and couplings to load cell simulators, TEDS, and resistors.

Accessories are available in many design configurations. Our new Accessories Selection Guide will help you complete your project design with the highest performance. Use this guide to combine available accessories designed for the specific measurement products.

Get Started Using the New Accessories Selection Guide

Accessories Guide for Calibration Systems

Accessories Guide for Instrumentation

Accessories Guide for Load Cells

Accessories Guide for Torque Transducers

Accessories assist with the reliability and performance of load cells and torque transducers. We also offer several different enclosures, from benchtop enclosures to wall-mount enclosures to sealed internal-mount enclosures for single and dual instruments.

Our top and bottom plates distribute the load over the support structure foundation, providing a prepared surface for the load cell. Precisely machined clevises, jam nuts, thread adapters, mounting plates, and rod end bearings provide rigid connections and reduce alignment errors.

INTERFACE ACCESSORIES

The Interface Accessories Guide is a valuable tool for navigating our extensive line of accessories. Save time and use this new guide to determine which accessories are best suited for your application, whether for a load cell, torque transducer, instrumentation, or calibration system.

Important considerations when buying a new measurement device include:

  1. How and where do you plan to connect to Interface devices?
  2. Do you have the right cable to pair with your device?
  3. Are adapters necessary to make the product fit your application?
  4. Will you be mounting the device to a hardened, flat surface?
  5. How will you be monitoring the instrument’s performance?
  6. Are enclosures helpful to protect your instruments?

Along with your specific application requirements, these questions will assist you in determining where to begin your search for the right accessories.  Use the new Interface Accessories Selection Guide or contact our experienced Application Engineers to determine which accessories support your application.

Accessories-Brochure-2

New Interface Multi-Axis Sensor Selection Guide

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

Interface Measurement Solutions Support Smart Cities

Various Interface load cell products are used in the development of smart cities. What is a smart city? A smart city is a municipality that uses data and interconnectivity to improve sustainability and quality of life.

According to the Smart City Index of 2023, London is leading the way in the development of its smart city infrastructure. Other top contenders for the lead are Zurich, Oslo, Barcelona, Taiwan, Singapore and New York. There are estimates are there are more than 140 smart cities today in various stages, and the number is growing. They are also showing tremendous potential to transform the way we live, consume, move and work. Most smart city infrastructure is in the early and mid-stages of development.

From research to engineering and building to maintenance, Interface force measurement solutions are being actively used in the design and testing of components used in smart city projects and systems. Force measurement data is valuable for assessing and improving the overall efficiency and sustainability of a city. Learn more by visiting our smart cities solutions here.

Load cells can be used to measure a variety of parameters in smart city design, development of infrastructure and resource management.

  • Interface LowProfile and Mini Load Cells are used to measure the force applied to a structure or object. This information can be used to assess the structural integrity of a building or bridge, or to optimize the design of a new product used in the smart city infrastructure.
  • Interface torque transducers provide data on the rotational equivalent of force. This information can be used to monitor the performance of heavy duty machinery and construction equipment, or to ensure that products are assembled correctly when building.
  • Specialized load cell technologies, like load pins, load shackles and tension links can be used to measure tension, lifting actions and weight, which is the force of gravity acting on an object. This information can be used to weigh products, to monitor the loading of transport vehicles, or to ensure materials or people are not overloading lifting equipment. Go to our Lifting Solutions and Weighing Solutions to learn more about the range of products available for smart city applications.
  • Interface wireless and Bluetooth solutions support the advance ICT (communications) requirements to easily capture accurate data without the cable. Our complete line of wireless telemetry systems and Bluetooth options support the advancements in digital optimization and feedback required for real-time data management.

By using sensors, data, and communications to improve human conditions of our cities, we can create more livable, sustainable, and equitable communities for the future.

SmartInfrastructure_InfographicPoster

How Load Cells and Sensor Devices are Used in Smart Cities

Load cells are versatile and essential tools for a diverse range of smart city applications. They provide accurate and reliable measurements that can be used to improve safety, resource management, and sustainability. Here are some examples of how force measurement solutions are used in smart cities.

  • Improving traffic management: Data acquired from load cells and sensors can be used to monitor the weight of vehicles on bridges and roads. This information can be used to optimize traffic flow and to prevent overloading of infrastructure. Force measurement data can also be used to monitor the movement of people and vehicles. This information can be used to identify potential hazards and to prevent accidents. Read: Interface Powers Smart Transportation Solutions
  • Smart waste management: Force measurement outputs can be used to monitor the weight of waste in bins. This information can be used to optimize waste collection routes and to reduce the amount of waste that is sent to landfills. Learn more in our IoT Waste Management Container Weighing App Note
  • Structural health monitoring: The data from load cells, torque transducers and multi-axis sensors can be used to monitor the structural integrity of buildings and bridges. This information can be used to identify potential problems before they lead to failure. Check out our post Interface Solutions for Structural Testing.
  • Smart farming and agriculture: Data from force measurement solutions can be used to monitor the weight of crops and livestock. This information can be used to optimize irrigation, fertilization, and harvesting. Learn more in our post Solutions to Advance Agriculture Smart Farming and Equipment.
  • Smart transportation: Creating a system of public transportation options, electric vehicles and bicycles, along with autonomous deliveries are part of smart city development projects around the world. Interface force measurement devices are critical in the development, testing and management of smart transportation.
  • Air quality systems: Force measurement data collected in real-time can be used to monitor the emission of pollutants from vehicles and factories. This information can be used to reduce pollution and improve air quality in smart cities.
  • Resource and energy management: Measurement data is important in production and optimization of critical resources like renewable energy and water, as well as for reducing waste and improving efficiency. Force measurement data can be used to monitor the energy consumption of buildings and infrastructure. This information can be used to identify opportunities for energy savings.

Smart cities use various Interface sensors technologies and other data collection instrumentation devices to track the use of resources and transportation. Overall, force measurement solutions are a valuable tool for improving the efficiency, sustainability, and safety of smart cities. As the use of sensors and other data collection devices continues to grow, we can expect to see even more innovative applications for force measurement data in smart city applications.

Keep watch of our smart city applications, as we learn more about how our products are being used in very smart and innovative use cases.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Modernizing Infrastructure with Interface Sensor Technologies

The Rise in Digital Force Measurement Solutions

Why Civil Engineers Prefer Interface Products

Interface Powers Smart Transportation Solutions

Smart Pallet Animated Application Note

Making Products Smarter with Interface OEM Solutions

Solutions to Advance Agriculture Smart Farming and Equipment

Interface Solutions for Heavy Equipment

Vertical Farming for Sustainable Food Production on Earth and Beyond

Innovative Interface Lifting Solutions

 

Introducing Interface Load Cell Selection Guides

When it comes to breadth and depth of sensor solutions, Interface has more than 35,000 products and countless options for customization. This can make choosing a specific load cell, torque transducer or instrumentation device for your next test project seem like a daunting task.

Our goal is to make your selection process easier. In addition to our global network of partners and team of Interface applications engineers, our online Interface Guides are resources designed to help you find the right measurement solution based on your exact requirements.

Recently, we have released two new selection guides to assist you in choosing the best load cell products, the Interface Load Cell Selection Guide and Interface Mini™ Load Cell Selection Guide. The two new Interface load cell selection guides offer a simple drop down menu for filtering the characteristics and model options of our extensive line of load cells. In addition, we provide a checklist for specific features that are best suited for your application and the environment in which you are utilizing the devices for testing and monitoring.

If you are not sure of what you need, we also include a helpful guide below each selection guide to walk you through the distinct types of load cells and their capabilities. Each selection will provide references to existing standard products that meet your criteria with easy links to additional specifications.

INTERFACE LOAD CELL SELECTION GUIDE

The Load Cell Selection Guide begins with criteria that will help you to narrow your options, including load cell types, options, features, and capabilities. Once you have selected one or more of the types to explore, each option will provide you a quick view of the product, capacities, and a link to detailed specifications, drawings, and datasheets. Start by selecting the model that provides the best fit based on the following types:

  • 2-Axis
  • Amplified
  • Axial Torsion
  • Calibration Grade
  • Canister
  • Column Rod End
  • Compression Only
  • Eccentric Load Compensate
  • Fatigue-Rate
  • Flange Mount
  • Intrinsically Safe
  • Moment Compensated
  • Overload Protected
  • Sealed
  • Stainless Steel
  • Submersible
  • Tension and Compression
  • Wireless

With every guide, Interface provides several technical references that are helpful in learning the ins-and-outs our load cells. As part of the Load Cell Selection Guide, you can review the technical make-up of our load cells, details about our proprietary strain gages, calibration insights, plus critical high-accuracy and quality performance parameters that set our products apart from the competition. You can also learn about the effects of temperature, moment compensation, and options available to support a variety of applications.

INTERFACE MINI LOAD CELL SELECTION GUIDE

For the Mini™ Load Cell Selection Guide, we provide a list of our popular miniature load cells with a detailed explanation of each model group. These descriptions provide an overview of the various features and capabilities of our mini products to help you choose the best solution for your use case. The products included in the Mini Load Cell Selection Guide include:

  • Load Cell Load Buttons
  • Load Washers
  • Bending Beam Load Cells
  • Double Bending Beam Load Cells
  • Sheer Beam Load Cells
  • S-Beam Load Cells
  • Overload Protected S-Cells
  • Single Point Impact Load Cells

These guides provide you with a solid baseline of information for making the right selection for your next project or for designing a sensor into your machine, product, or component. If you need further help or require an engineered-to-order or custom product, reach out to our experts. We are here to help!

For an all-time great load cell 101 reference, listen in as our top engineers detail load cell basics in this Interface Classic Series recorded webinar.

Additional Resources

How Do Load Cells Work?

Interface Load Cell Field Guide

Torque Transducer Selection Guide

Contributing Factors To Load Cell Accuracy

LowProfile Load Cells 101

Webinar Recap of Taking Measure of Miniature Load Cells

Interface Presents Load Cell Basics

Interface Force Measurement 101 Series Introduction

In our ongoing commitment to provide valuable resources through self-help guides and online reference materials, we are introducing our 101 Series.

This new online resource is an easy-to-use guide for load cell basics and force measurement topics. The series is a collection of content in various formats that detail subjects related to test and measurement.

Interface prioritizes helping our customers understand the inner workings of our expanding line of sensors, accessories, and instrumentation by creating guides, technical manuals, and solution applications for force measurement.

The Interface 101 Series will introduce you to relevant subjects about our products and how we can help you get the most accurate and reliable force data in the industry by using our solutions.

Our new 101 Series guide is an effortless way to navigate through high-level test and measurement topics. Each section of the new 101 Series includes a featured 101 IQ blog on a single subject, as well as quick links to videos, case studies, white papers, application notes, product information, technical specifications and more related to that subject.

The goal in creating the 101 Series is to provide a basic understanding on how our products are used for various test and measurement applications across all industries. The references are an effective way to learn about the broad depth of Interface products like our precision load cells, torque transducers, multi-axis sensors, calibration systems and instrumentation. We also provide relevant test and measurement content related to types of force measurement testing, components, systems, and materials used in engineering highly accurate measurement technologies.

There are thousands of references found throughout our site, like our design files for product engineers and digital instrumentation set-up videos for lab techs. It is our pledge to develop material that support our 35,000 products, as well as provide educational content like the 101 Series and our ForceLeaders Webinars you can watch on-demand.

Included below are the current 101 IQ Blogs you will find featured on the 101 Series online guide. We will add additional references to this 101 Series, as we post new subjects. Go to Force Measurement 101 Series to bookmark this reference.

101 Series IQ Blogs

You can find additional reference materials related to our products and services including manuals, product catalogs, technical references, and events.  Go to our online support to find helpful educational and advanced resources like our technical glossary, engineering tips and installation guides.

If you are mostly interested in why you should choose Interface, here is a good reference to start.

If you are not able to find the information you need or you have a specific question about our products or services, be sure to contact us to help.

Our Greatest Resource is Our Team Members

Labor Day is important to Interface. It is our time to celebrate our most valuable resource, our talented team members. We appreciate every single person that has been part of our 51-year-old history. They are what makes us thrive, each and every day.

Our talent is diverse in skills and experience. It takes a wide range of resources to design and build the best precision force solutions in the market place.

At Interface, we are proud of the work we do and the products we provide our clients. Our force measurement tools and technology are recognized as the Gold Standard for accuracy and reliability, because of the hundreds of top-notch engineers, production team members, sales and application engineers, administrators, partners, reps, and distributors, who pour their heart and soul into their work.

On any given day, you can find our experts keenly soldering strain gages, calibrating every load cell, shipping crates of our LowProfile load cells, meeting with clients to design new OEM solutions, engineering new products and supporting our internal and external customers from our headquarter office. It takes a vast group of committed team members to do what we do, and do it well. And that is worth celebrating this Labor Day!

Our employees have been able to achieve success at such a high level because of our focus on the core values we use to define ourselves: ownership, integrity, imagination, and accountability. It’s ingrained in our culture and what we strive to represent throughout the organization.

These values dictate the way our teams interact with clients and one another, and it guides the success of our product development and R&D efforts. There are a shared vision and a common goal which makes collaboration and innovation easier, which helps us to promote a great place to work.

As a premium supplier to the critical infrastructure projects, the aerospace and defense markets, we are also happy to avowal that Interface products are “Made in America.” We take pride in leveraging American labor and contributing our economic success to the U.S. GDP. The National Association of Manufacturing (NAM) presented the following facts on the state of U.S. manufacturing, and Interface is an integral contributor to these milestones:

NAM Facts (Source):

  • Manufacturers contributed $2.38 trillion to the U.S. economy in the fourth quarter of 2018
  • Over the past 28 years, U.S.-manufactured goods exported have quadrupled
  • Manufacturers in the U.S. export nearly half of U.S. manufacturing output
  • Taken alone, manufacturing in the U.S. would be the eighth-largest economy in the world

America’s manufacturing labor force turned America into a powerhouse in the mid-1800s. They started the industrial revolution and became the backbone to American success throughout the next 150 years. It’s critical to our country’s future to celebrate and support manufacturing and labor.

We invite you to check back in every month and read our Faces of Interface blog where we celebrate the individual leaders helping us to achieve our innovation goals. The special series tells the stories and background of some of our most brilliant people. Check out the latest edition here.

Happy Labor Day, and remember to rest and relax. We appreciate all you do Interface Team!