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Interface Solutions Aid Pharmaceutical Industry

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Among the many highly regulated and incredibly complex industries, the medical industry is highly dependent on tools and resources that are precise and measure with high accuracy.

The medical industry is a broad, encompassing hospitals, medical professionals, payers, medical devices and pharmaceuticals. In each sector, Interface has a long history of providing precision measurement solutions for R&D, prototyping, testing, manufacturing, packaging and monitoring use.

In every use case, safety of patients and quality of products is predicated on extreme accurateness. Throughout a pharmaceutical product’s life cycle, specialized measurement equipment and sensor technologies are used by scientists, engineers, researchers, lab technicians, regulators, quality groups and manufacturers. These instruments are utilized in design and maintenance to provide unmistakable evidence of process quality and safety.

Medical and healthcare companies, including those specifically in pharmaceuticals, turn to Interface because our high accuracy force measurement solutions are designed for reliable performance test and measurement projects. The science used in the pharmaceutical industry depends on quality measurement of force and weight. Interface load cells are designed for these types of precise requirements. There is also tremendous demand for Interface’s ability to customize solutions that meet the exact measurement requirements of these sensitive applications. Visit our new Interface Pharmaceutical Industry Solutions.

Interface supports a range of pharmaceutical applications including:

  • Weighing and distributing
  • Specimen testing equipment
  • Tablet hardness testing
  • Tablet forming machine optimization
  • Capsule filling machines
  • Quality control and safety
  • Mixing
  • Packaging and filling
  • Bioreactors and fermenters

Interface force measurement solutions are used for a variety of pharma-related products and machines that help biotechnology and pharmaceutical product engineers to design, test, and manufacture their products.  When it comes to equipment used in the manufacturing of medicine, Interface products are used to optimize production and reduce waste. Our miniature load cells are often integrated into machines and equipment to provide precision measurements during operations.

Types of Interface Load Cells Used by Pharmaceutical Companies

Pharmaceutical Tablet Forming Machine Optimization

A pharmaceutical tablet producer wanted to monitor the forces applied by the tablet forming machine to understand the relationship between raw material, die set, forming force, and the motor’s cycle speed. The goal was to improve productivity and efficiency of the tablet forming process, while reducing losses such as cracked tablets or voids, by adding a dimension of feedback that could be used to assign specific press adjustment criterion for given inputs. An Interface 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 9320 Portable Load Cell Indicator to collect the needed data. After analyzing the data, the tablet producer was able to quantify adjustment levels by monitoring which forces produced the most optimal results for a given cycle speed, die set, and raw material. Productivity and efficiency were greatly improved by the enhancement of the data feedback.

Tablet Hardness Testing for Pharmaceuticals

A pharmaceutical producer wanted to test and monitor the hardness of the pills being created in their tablet forming machine. Interface’s SML Low Height S-Type Load Cell was mounted to the hardness device inside the tablet forming machine. The SML Low Height S-Type Load Cell was then connected to the 9870 High-Speed High Performance TEDS Ready Indicator to record the force measurements. The tablet producer was able to verify and test the specific hardness needed for their tablets being produced by their tablet forming machine.

Pharmaceutical Tablet Machine Hardness Calibration

A customer wanted to regularly recalibrate tablet hardness testers. The customer needed a miniature load cell the size of a sugar cube that replaces the tablets and fits horizontally in the tablet test-box. Therefore, a special cable exit was important for the compression only calibration application. In the past, the machines had to be rebuilt for calibrations, or a complex mechanism had to be integrated to enable vertical calibration. However, Interface’s MCC Miniature Compression Load Cell measures forces on its side with a special cable exit on the flat side that attaches to the calibration indicator, such as the Interface handheld indicator and datalogger Model 9330. The MCC load-cell calibration set compared the applied forces with the hardness tester to make sure that the tablet hardness tester uses the correct force for future tablet hardness tests. The BlueDAQ software helped to log and compare the data of the MCC reference load cell. The customer successfully verified and calibrated the tablet hardness tester machine horizontally to conduct accurate hardness testing on tablets in the future. Interface’s MCC Miniature Compression Load Cell was perfect due to its small size, and convenient to measure the forces on its side.

Like medical devices, pharmaceutical machines and products must undergo a variety of mission-critical tests before they are safe for distribution to uses. Interface products are selected by the pharmaceutical industry is due to our product’s accuracy and reliability, in addition to our deep experience in supplying solutions to those in the medical business.

Pharmaceuticals_InfographicPoster

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Spotlighting Medical Device and Healthcare Solutions

Force Solutions for Medical Tablet Forming Machines

Interface Ensures Premium Accuracy and Reliability for Medical Applications

Interface Solutions for Medical Devices and Healthcare

Interface Solutions for Safety and Regulation Testing and Monitoring

Accuracy Matters for Weighing and Scales

 

Ruggedized Test and Measurement Solutions Webinar Recap

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Interface’s event, Ruggedized Test and Measurement Solutions, details various transducers, instrumentation and accessories that are designed to withstand environmental stresses and harsh conditions.

The types of testing use case that require ruggedized solutions are material testing, high and low temperature environments, structural and fatigue tests, high cycle count tests, any test for products exposure to moisture or humidity, pressure tests, as well as underwater and in-fluid tests. As noted, this applies to every industry, including maritime, aerospace, food packaging, consumer products, construction, medical devices and automotive.

Interface considers ruggedization as force measurement solutions designed and fabricated for use in extreme environments and applications, ability to operate within accuracy specifications while withstanding one or more environmental stresses or harsh conditions.

During this event, Ken Bishop and Elliot Speidell details the top factors when evaluating test and measurement products used in extreme environments, such as exposure to high or low temperatures, depth of submersion, moisture and water concerts, dust, and other harsh conditions. They present key questions to answer when evaluating your testing requirements, as well as top considerations.

These important evaluation subjects and ruggedized product factors are based on years of experience in collaborating with companies around the world. They define use cases and actual examples of Interface load pins, instrumentation, stainless steel load cells, enclosures and accessories used in all types of harsh and even hazardous environments.

Here is a quick preview of all the topics thoroughly discussed during this event.

  • Environmental Stresses and Harsh Condition Categories
  • Standards and Ratings
  • Structural and Material Options
  • Ruggedized Test and Measurement Devices
  • Sealed Products and Enclosures
  • Extreme Temperatures and Cycling
  • Exposure to Moisture and Submersibles
  • Test & Measurement Applications Using Ruggedized Products

The entire online seminar is now available on-demand. Watch it here.

Top Selling Interface Ruggedized Products

These types of products follow strict certification standards and ratings. During the online seminar, Interface product experts detail the standards and ratings related to intrinsically safe products, sometimes referred to as hazardous location use, as well as solutions designed to meet safety, regulatory or compliance requirements.

The standard ensures that an intrinsically safe device is incapable of triggering combustion or igniting any gasses or vapors. The device is safe to use around dust and gas without risking static electricity or heat discharge from the device igniting the surrounding volatile gasses, powders, and liquids.  Explosion proof applies to a device enclosed in a case that can withstand a gas or vapor explosion.  Should there be an explosion, it will be contained within the enclosure.

Interface offers products with different IP ratings, including IP66, IP67 and IP68 applied to different transducers and instrumentation. Ingress protection (IP) ratings, which grade the resistance of an enclosure against the intrusion of dust or liquids ingress protection (IP) ratings, which grade the resistance of an enclosure against the intrusion of dust or liquids.

  • IP65 – Dust-tight, protected against water jets
  • IP66 – Dust-tight, protected against powerful water jets
  • IP67 – Dust-tight, protected against the effects of temporary submersion in water
  • IP68 – Dust-tight, protected against the effects of continuous immersion in water

What is the difference between IP66 and IP68? IP68 enclosures also provide dust-tight performance against solids. However, they are also rated for significantly better defense against water ingress than an IP66 enclosure. An IP68 enclosure can withstand submersion for over 30-minutes at up to a specified water depth.

Interface also has a range of instrumentation products that are NEMA, and IP rated based on the enclosure and housing designs.  These include:

Interface offers standard and customized solutions. Contact our application engineers to discuss your options and how to ensure you have the right product to match the conditions of our test and measurement environment.

Interface New Product Releases Fall 2022

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In an effort to help our customers keep up with our growing catalog of force measurement solutions, we are introducing a new product release newsletter.

This new quick reference will help navigate our latest additions across all product categories, including new load cells, torque transducers and instrumentation.

In order to ensure you have all the information you need, we are posting the updates through our IQ Blog. The new product highlights below are referenced in our Fall 2022 New Products Release Update.

If you have questions about these new additions or any other Interface products, please contact us.

If you would like to order any of the new products, go to Request for Quote.

SUPERSC S-TYPE MINIATURE LOAD CELL

The new SuperSC Mini Load Cell is a compact design S-Type model available in 25 lbf to 1000 lbf and 100 N to 5 kN capacities. The SuperSC is an economical general purpose load cell that is 50% lighter in weight with an 80% smaller form factor than typical s-type and shear beam load cell designs. It is environmentally sealed and insensitive to off axis loading. SuperSC is ideal for OEM products and testing in confined spaces. Learn more about the SuperSC product release.

 Primary SuperSC features and benefits:

  • High force in a very compact design
  • Environmentally sealed IP66
  • Economical general purpose load cell
  • High stiffness, low deflection
  • Insensitive to off axis loading

AT104 COMPACT SIZE FORCE AND TORQUE TRANSDUCER

Interface’s new AT104 transducer is a reliable and durable reaction torque and force sensor. It is compact in size, with capacity options of 4.5/0.89 lbf/lbf-in and 11.2/4.4 lbf/lbf-in (20/0.1 N/Nm and 50/0.5 N/Nm). This model is non-rotating and easy to use.

Primary AT104 features and benefits:

  • Reaction torque and force sensor
  • Very short axial length
  • Reliable and durable
  • Simple handling and assembly
  • Side cable exit

T18 ROTARY TORQUE TRANSDUCER

Interface’s new T18 General Purpose Shaft Style Rotary Torque Transducer is a low-cost contactless rotary torque transducer that can float mounted with a 32-pulse speed option. This product is available in capacities from 10 to 100 Nm (88.5 to 885 lbf-in) and outputs of ±5VDC or ±10VDC.

Primary T18 features and benefits:

  • Keyed Shaft per DIN 6885
  • Outputs of ±5VDC or ±10VDC
  • Speed measurement options available
  • Contactless
  • Short overall length
  • High performing lower cost transducer

AT105 CONTACTLESS FORCE TORQUE TRANSDUCER

Interface’s latest force torque transducer addition is model AT105. It is a highly accurate and maintenance free. It is a contactless rotating torque and force sensor. They are used for all types of applications, such as continuous stress testing of equipment and components. The available capacities are 100/2, 250/5, and 500/5 N/Nm (22.5/17.7, 56.2/44.3, and 112.4/44.3 lbf/lbf-in).

Primary AT105 features and benefits:

  • Contactless
  • Digital signal transmission from rotor to stator
  • Highly accurate
  • Maintenance free
  • Simple handling and assembly

JB1100 4-CHANNEL ADVANCED SIGNAL CONDITIONING TRANSMITTER, INDICATOR AND JUNCTION BOX

Our new instrumentation device model JB1100 is the ideal solution for PLC systems which require weight data from a load cell. Interface’s JB1100 4-Channel Advanced Signal Conditioning Transmitter Indicator and Junction Box offers maximum control without the additional cost or space required of a traditional weight indicator. This multi-function weight transmitter junction box has a compact design while presenting needed signal-conditioning functions. This product 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
  • Red 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

9825 DIGITAL GENERAL-PURPOSE INDICATORS

Interface Model 9825 is a general-purpose instrumentation solution that works with mV/V sensors. The indicator has an easy to navigate menu structure and fast speed up to 1kHz.

Primary 9825 features and benefits:

  • Bipolar
  • ±999,999 Display
  • Nonlinearity < ±0.01%
  • Analog output – VDC
  • Calibration types (live load and front panel entry)
  • Peak and valley monitoring
  • Front panel tare
  • High Speed
  • IP54 Rating

9325-NU PORTABLE SENSOR DISPLAY

The 9325-NU is a handheld portable display unit of strain bridge-based measurements such as load cells, torque transducers, and other mV/V output transducers with sensitivity up to +/-1 V/V. With six calibration ranges available, it is useful for different loading modes (tension and compression) or different sensors. Each calibration range will remember settings that contribute to the user experience such as selected units and tare values.

Primary 9325-NU features and benefits:

  • Superior Linearity Performance Specifications
  • Measurement Rate up to 2400 Samples per Second
  • High Internal Resolution (up to 500,000 counts)
  • IP64 Environmentally Protected Enclosure
  • Battery Powered (Long Battery Life)
  • 128 x 64 Graphical Display with Backlight
  • Supports TEDS Template 33, 40, and 41
  • Live Calibration
  • Standard Audio Alarm

INTERFACE PRESSURE COMPENSATED DOWNHOLE LOAD CELL

The Interface Pressure Compensated Downhole Cell (IPCD) is designed for high performance downhole force measurement. Replacing “wet” load cells, Interface developed a proprietary technology that compensates for that pressure influence and allows for bridge isolation. IPCD is far more rugged, needing little to no repairs, and it can be used downhole without risk of damage, a first of its kind in the industry. Read the product release here.

Primary IPCD features and benefits:

  • High accuracy
  • Maintenance free
  • Pressure compensated up to 20,000 PSI
  • Temperature compensated up to 350°F
  • Superior to hydraulically compensated wet load cells which have a short life expectancy and high operating costs

WTSATL LIGHTWEIGHT ALUMINUM WIRELESS TENSION LINK

The WTSATL Lightweight Wireless Tension Link series are designed for lifting and weighing in rugged or harsh environments. They are available in capacities of 11K lbf to 661K lbf (5 mt to 300 mt). Manufactured from high tensile aluminum to minimize weight also makes them ideal for mobile use. The wireless antenna is internally mounted, protecting it from accidental damage during use and handling. They are simple to install and have a high safety factor (5:1) to provide safe and accurate measurements during critical lifting operations.

Primary WTSATL features and benefits:

  • Lightweight aluminum construction
  • High accuracy
  • Environmentally sealed to IP65
  • License Free 2.4GHz radio
  • Internal antenna
  • 300 hours battery life using standard AAA batteries
  • Can be supplied with various telemetry and/or software packages

Interface also offers the WTSATL-JR ALUMINUM COMPACT WIRELESS TENSION LINK designed for lifting and weighing in applications where there is restricted lifting height. Capacities range from 2.2K lbf to 10.5K lbf (1 mt to 4.75 mt).

ADDITIONAL PRODUCT RESOURCES

As you navigate the products and services, if you have questions regarding specifications or capabilities, please reach out to our application engineers. Our experts are ready to help explore the possibilities and answer any technical questions.

Interface Introduces SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell

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Interface has released its latest load cell invention, the SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell. Interface’s new product is an s-type miniature load cell that offers capacities in a form factor 80% smaller and 50% lighter than other models of s-type load cells. It’s ideal for industry 4.0 applications.

The Interface SuperSC is an economical general purpose load cell with a compact design. It is perfect for all types of test and measurement applications in confined spaces and for OEM use cases with smaller product dimensions. The miniature sensor is also environmentally sealed and insensitive to off axis loading.

Designed by Interface’s engineer Raymunn Machado-Prisbrey, SuperSC comes in 12 capacities ranging from 25 to 1K lbf and 100 N to 5 kN. Six designs for international standards of measurement (metric) and six are imperial standards. They are environmentally sealed with an IP66 rating and offer high stiffness with low detection.

“S-type load cells have grown in popularity every year since their introduction in 1974 by Interface’s founder, primarily due to their design features and performance for use in diverse force measurement applications.” Mark Weathers, VP of Advanced Manufacturing and OEM Products

Due to its high capacity and compact housing, it is an ideal sensor for weighing and test machines, as well as in OEM product designs for ongoing performance measurement and monitoring. S-type load cells are some of Interface’s most popular products. The new product release of the SuperSC represents the next generation of the versatile Interface Mini product offerings.

“The SuperSC is the next generation of s-type load cells with the Interface’s distinguishable high quality, accuracy, reliability, and range of capacities, while also offering a more compact design and options for customization and embedding into products and machines,” said Mark Weathers, VP of Advanced Manufacturing and OEM Products

The Interface SuperSC is manufactured at Interface’s headquarters in Arizona. It has accessories and different build options, including a high-temperature rated version, fatigue rated, special calibrations, and it also can be pre-installed with rod end bearings. Interface also plans to introduce a submersible, IP68 rated version and a model specialized for load compensation.

The new Interface SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell and review specification sheets and pricing are here.

Interface highlighted the product in the recent Superior S-Type Load Cells webinar recording.

PRESS RELEASE

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Superior S-Types Webinar Recap and New SuperSC

SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell

Superior S-Type Load Cells Webinar

S-Type Load Cells 101

Superior S-Types Webinar Recap and New SuperSC

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Interface hosted a new online seminar, Superior S-Type Load Cells, to highlight the different models, capabilities, and features of this popular type of force measurement transducer. It also provided a terrific opportunity to showcase one of Interface’s latest inventions, the new SuperSC S-Type Load Cell.

Interface’s Raymunn Machado-Prisbrey, Randy White and Mark Weathers detail important topics during this essential force sensors event. The presentation focuses on various S-type products, an engineering perspective, use cases and applications, along with the news of the SuperSC product release.

S-type load cells, sometimes called s-beams, get its nomenclature from the “S” looking model of the load cell. The classification of this type of load cell is considered a miniature sensor. They are part of Interface’s extensive line of Mini Load Cells.

One of the clear advantages of this load cell, that Interface brought to market in 1974 through an invention by our founder Richard F. Caris, is that it can be used to measure tension and compression.

Common Standard S-Types Use Cases

  • Controlled tension and compression measurement applications
  • Proof loading
  • Fatigue and high cycle count tests
  • Material testing
  • Suspended weighing and platform scales
  • Rigs, cranes, and hoists
  • OEM systems
  • Test machine integrations

The “S” shaped load cell has mechanical attachments on the top and bottom. The strain gage bridge is located at center. Interface uses a Wheatstone bridge with proprietary strain gages in a bending configuration. This offers a more efficient inline package versus standard bending bridge sensors for improved off axis insensitivity.

Watch our latest webinar to learn more about the versatile miniature S-Type Load Cells and the news about our SuperSC.


As detailed in the webinar, one of the biggest benefits is the scalable design that can accommodate a wide range of capacities through material and dimensional changes. S-types gained their popularity with requirements for small form factors and precision. They are now some of Interface’s top 10 products.

Engineers and testing labs prefer Interface’s s-type sensors for:

  • Proven load cell form with Interface’s strain gages
  • High accuracy
  • Size and much smaller than typical load cells
  • Value and cost-effective solution
  • Flexibility to fit in limited spaces
  • Easy to integrate
  • Universal for tension and compression testing

S-types are used inline during loading. They feature threaded mounting holes, providing stability and accuracy in measurement. They are not designed to be used for moving or rotating test objects. S-types are used in individual use cases for testing rigs and machines, as well as OEM solutions embedded into a product for continuous measurement and feedback.

Interface has a wide range of specialized miniature s-type load cells including:

  • Sealed
  • Micro-size
  • Fatigue-rated
  • High-temperature ratings
  • Low height
  • Overload protected
  • Intrinsically safe

You can watch the entire online event here. You will be the first to preview the official launch of the SuperSC and how it is modern design, superior performance, and low cost are ideal for OEM solutions. Randy, Ray and Mark detail tips, FAQs and some innovative applications for s-type load cells.

We record all Interface webinars for your convenience. Be sure to subscribe to our Interface YouTube Channel so that you do not miss an event.

Superior S-Type Load Cells Webinar

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Interface force measurement engineers and solutions experts explore s-type load cells. We discuss the history, engineering perspective, models, capabilities and features of these specialized miniature load cells. Learn about use cases, tips for test and measurement applications and FAQs. Mark Weathers, Raymunn Machado-Prisbrey and Randy White unveil our latest new product, the SuperSC S-Type Load Cell. Find out about it’s unique features and design.

Read more

S-Type Load Cells 101

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There are many different types of devices used in test and measurement from load cells to torque transducers and tension links to multi-axis sensors. In addition, there are sub-categories in each of these product types that are based on various specifications, capabilities, capacities, and application requirements.

Discussing load cells specifically, there are different models and configurations depending on the use case, the amount of force measurement or weighing requirements for a particular load, dimensions, and even test environment considerations. No matter what our customers need, we have standard and custom load cells up to the task. In our 101 series, we are highlighting the innovative miniature load cell sub-category of Interface S-Type Load Cells.

What Is an S-Type Load Cell and What Is It Used For?

S-type load cells, sometimes called s-beam, gets its nomenclature from the “S” looking model of the load cell. It is shaped this way because it is designed to measure well-controlled tension and compression forces. There are preferred by engineers and testing labs for the precision, size, material, and ability to fit in limited spaces. They are often used for weighing, in test machines as well as product designs for ongoing performance measurement by OEMs.

An s-type load cell will often be used within a system designed to stress test products in a controlled environment for fatigue and product testing to measure the way the product stands up to force over long periods of time. The benefit of Interface S-Type Load Cells is that they are very cost-effective, highly accurate, easy to mount, and offer flexibility because it can be used universally for tension and compression testing. They are also smaller than typical load cells, providing major benefits when there are limitations in space or for smaller test product dimensions.

Interface has a wide range of specialized miniature s-type load cells including sealed, micro-size, fatigue-rated, high-temperature ratings, low height, overload protected and intrinsically safe to meet all types of testing protocols and plans. You can see all the s-type models here.

An s-type load cell is generally used with eyebolts or rod-ends when used in tension and this can cause binding or the associated hardware to unthread. These uniquely designed load cells should not be used when weighing an object that can sway or rotate. Additionally, an s-type load cell is not recommended when the load cell will be used for both tension and compression, where accuracy in compression is critical. In this case we’d recommend a shear type of load cell.

S-Type Load Cell Applications

Prosthetic Load and Fatigue Testing

Prosthetic limbs must be tested for extreme loading that can occur during falls, accidents, and sports movements. Fatigue testing of prosthetic components determines the expected lifespan of the components under normal usage. Interface suggested a static load test apparatus using SSMF Fatigue Rated S-Type Load Cell attached to hydraulic actuators to apply and measure loads. The fatigue testing machine uses SSMF Fatigue Rated S-type Load Cell to apply and measure cyclic loads. During the fatigue test, the actuator repeatedly applies and removes the force to simulate activity such as walking. Tilt tables may also be used to apply forces at various angles to simulate the heel-to-toe movement of walking or running. Using this solution, engineers can determine whether prosthetic materials and designs will withstand the rigors of daily use and occasional high load situations. Read more here.

Furniture Fatigue Cycle Testing

To meet safety protocols in relation to the manufacturing of various furniture products, fatigue testing, shock testing, and proof testing must be rigorously performed before diffusion into the marketplace. Force testing simulations on furniture products are critical in determining the posted max loads to protect manufacturers from liability due to damages that might result from the misuse of those products and overloading. Using an Interface Model SSMF Fatigue Rated S-Type Load Cell along with Interface Model 9890 Strain Gage, Load Cell, & mV/V Indicator provides a solution that measures the force being applied in fatigue cycle testing of a furniture product, in this case testing the rocking mechanism in an office chair. Unlike other similar load cells, the Model SSMF is fatigue rated making it highly suitable for fatigue testing. No fatigue failure of any fatigue-rated Interface load cell, used within its ratings, has ever been reported. The furniture manufacturer was able to obtain accurate data about the rocking mechanism the office chair as it was fatigue cycled into failure. Adjustments were made to the design to improve the safety and life of the furniture, ensuring product quality and protecting the manufacturer from future liability. Read more here.

Interface S-Type Load Cells are highly effective, accurate and flexible products used for a wide variety of applications needing compression and tension force testing. To learn more about Interface’s S-Type Load Cells, you can also visit here or call us today to speak to an application engineer who can help you select the right product for your next project at 480-948-5555.

Interface Mini Load Cells Growing in Product Use and Testing

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One of the biggest manufacturing trends over the past decade is the miniaturization of hardware components. Reducing the size and weight of products and the components, while increasing the power of complex technology systems, is growing in use across all industry segments using force measurement in design and production.

The growing trend to utilize sensor technology in miniaturized products has been especially significant in the medical, consumer products, technology and robotics industries. These industries are looking to fit more force and measurement capabilities into a package that is the same size, or in many cases, considerably smaller than previous generations of like products.

To address this expanding trend, Interface Mini™ Load Cells were designed specifically for light touch, light weight, high accuracy, and robust performance to utilize for OEM products and smaller testing applications in confined spaces. Our miniature load cells provide exceedingly accurate measurements, similar to our full-size load cells and utilize our proprietary alloy strain gages. Capacities are available as low as 0.11 lbf / 0.5 N and as high as 100 kN.

These small-scale load cells are engineered and manufactured to provide extremely accurate output data with the same degree of precision performance as our standard load cells. OEM’s must have this sort of precision force technology because many of the devices being made today are minuscule and more complex in comparison to earlier products and testing application use cases.

In the medical device industry, innovative and often small new products are used in various life-saving applications. Any inaccuracy or miscalculation of force can have devastating effects. Take a look at how our Interface LBS Miniature Compression Load Button Load Cell and 9330 High Speed Data Logging Indicator were used to record the force measurements when designing and testing vascular clamp surgical devices. You can also read about the Vascular Clamp application note here.

In our earlier Mini Load Cells 101 blog, we discussed the features and benefits of Mini Load Cells in detail. Today, we are highlighting some of our best-selling and new Mini Load Cell solutions available from Interface.

QS48 TruckSpecial Note: A large variety of our standard miniature load cells are available today through our QS48 e-commerce site for easy online ordering. Click here to order now through our QuickShip program and get your mini’s in as little as 48 hours! If you need something specifically customized, reach out to our expert application engineers who can work with you to design custom miniature load cells that will fit your exact requirements.

INTERFACE MINI™ LOAD CELLS

MB Miniature Beam Load Cell

Model MB is a miniature beam load cell used in medical test machines and a variety of low capacity applications. Performance on this product is +/- 0.03% FS and available capacities are 5 to 250 lbf (22.2 N to 1.11 kN).

Product Features:

  • Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages
  • Performance to 0.03%
  • Low height – 1-inch max
  • Eccentric load compensated
  • ±0.0008% /˚F – max temperature effect on output
  • Low deflection

MBP Overload Protected Miniature Beam Load Cell

Model MBP series load cells provide similar performance to Model MB series with the added safeguard of internal overload protection. This patented overload protection is accomplished via hard stops that are EDM machined into the load cell flexure. This provides greater overload protection (2.5-10lbf ±1000% of full-scale capacity, 100 N ±500% of full-scale capacity), giving the user added protection in more severe applications.

Product Features:

  • Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages
  • 10x overload protection
  • Low height – 1in max
  • 0.0008%F temp. effect on output
  • 5′ Integral Cable (custom lengths available upon request)
  • NIST Traceable Calibration Certificate

WMC Sealed Stainless Steel Miniature Load Cell

Interface Model WMC Stainless Steel Miniature Load Cell is excellent for industrial applications because of its stainless steel, sealed, environmentally protected construction. This product is available in capacities ranging from 5 to 500 lbf (22 to 2200 N).  Submersible versions of this product are available as well.

Product features:

  • Environmentally sealed tension and compression load cell
  • Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages
  • Tension and compression
  • Small Size
  • Stainless Steel Construction
  • Submersible

SSM and SSM2 Sealed S-Type Load Cells

Model SSM is a moderately priced highly-accurate sealed load cell for test machines and other general purpose applications. This product is available in capacities ranging from 50 to 10K lbf (200 N to 50 kN).

Product Features:

  • Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages
  • Environmentally sealed
  • 0.02% non-repeatability
  • 0.0008%/°F (0.0015%/°C) temp. effect on output
  • 0.025% creep
  • Tension and compression

LBM Compression Load Button Load Cell

Model LBM Compression Load Button is very popular.  It is constructed from stainless steel and has a small size. This product is available capacities range from 25 lbf up to 50K lbf.

Product Features:

  • Temperature compensated
  • Integral load button
  • Small diameter
  • Environmentally sealed
  • Stainless steel

LBS Miniature Load Button Load Cell

Model LBS Miniature Compression Load Button is constructed from stainless steel and has a small size. This product is available capacities range from 5 lbf up to 1K lbf (22.2 N to 4.45 kN).

Product Features:

  • Temperature compensated
  • Integral load button
  • Small diameter
  • From 0.12″ height

LWPF1 Press Force Load Washer Load Cell

Model LWPF1 Press Force Load Cell is one of several load washer load cells available from Interface. It features a large thru-hole and short overall height. This product is available in capacities ranging from 2 kN to 100 kN (450 to 22.5K lbf).

Product Features:

  • Short height
  • Large thru hole
  • For press-force monitoring

BPL Pedal Load Cell

BPL Pedal Load CellThe Model BPL is a very LowProfile® load cell is used for measuring force on brake pedals. Interface Model BPL has the lowest sensitivity to off-center loading available and will outperform any competitive model.

Product Features:

  • Lowest nonlinearity and hysteresis of any brake pedal load cell – < 0.05%
  • Ultra-low height
  • Low sensitivity to off-axis loads
  • Mounts directly to pedal with included strap(s)
  • Interchangeable mounting plates
  • For use with gas, brake or clutch pedal
  • Storage case included

There are more than 30 different Interface Mini Load Cells and sensors available, in addition to our ability to provide modified and custom Mini Load Cells solutions. To find the Interface Mini that works for your needs, or to learn more about our expanding lineup of load cells and torque transducers, please visit /products/.