Posts

Interface Solutions Aid Pharmaceutical Industry

/0 Comments/in /by

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 Pharamaceutical 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

 

Off-Axis Loading 101

/0 Comments/in , /by

Off-axis loading refers to a situation where a load cell, which is a device designed to measure force or weight, is subject to forces that are not aligned with its primary sensing axis. Load cells are typically designed to measure forces that are applied along a specific direction or axis, which is known as the primary sensing axis. When forces are applied to the load cell in other directions, this is referred to as off-axis loading.

Off-axis loading can affect the accuracy of load cell measurements, as the load cell may not be able to accurately distinguish between forces that are applied along the primary sensing axis and forces that are applied in other directions. This can result in errors in the measured weight or force.

To minimize the effects of off-axis loading, load cells are often designed with measures to reduce sensitivity to forces applied in other directions. These may include mechanical features such as strain relief structures or specialized materials that are more resistant to off-axis loading. Additionally, load cells are often installed and used in ways that minimize the likelihood of off-axis loading, such as aligning the primary sensing axis with the direction of the applied force. Be sure to carefully follow all Force Measurement Installation Guides provided with sensor.

What can be done to protect from off-axis loading?

Off-axis loading can affect the accuracy of load cell measurements, so it is important to take steps to protect against it. Here are a few ways to do so:

  • Use proper mounting and alignment: Load cells should be mounted and aligned in a way that ensures that the primary sensing axis is aligned with the direction of the applied force. This helps to minimize off-axis loading and ensure accurate measurements.
  • Use appropriate accessories: Using accessories such as adapters or mounting bases can help to ensure that load cells are properly aligned and oriented, minimizing the potential for off-axis loading.
  • Use anti-rotation features: Many load cells are equipped with anti-rotation features, such as bolt-hole patterns or keyway slots, which help to prevent the load cell from rotating around its mounting point. This can help to maintain proper alignment and reduce the effects of off-axis loading.
  • Use overload protection: Overload protection features, such as limit switches or stoppers, can be used to prevent load cells from being subjected to excessive forces or moments. This can help to prevent damage to the load cell and ensure accurate measurements.
  • Use a protective enclosure: Load cells can be placed in protective enclosures that shield them from external forces and environmental factors. These enclosures can help to protect against off-axis loading, as well as other types of interference.

By taking these steps, load cell users can help to protect against the effects of off-axis loading and ensure accurate and reliable measurements.

Product designs that mitigate off-axis loading

Engineers are constantly working to design new load cells that are more resistant to off-axis loading.  In fact, Interface product engineers have several products that are designed to protect from off-axis loading, including:

  1. ConvexBT Load Button Load Cell
  2. SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell
  3. MBP Overload Protected Miniature Beam Load Cell
  4. MRTP Miniature Overload Protected Flange Style Reaction Torque Transducer
  5. MBI Overload Protected Miniature Beam Load Cell
  6. LBMP Overload Protected Compression Load Button Load Cell
  7. SMT Overload Protected S-Type Load Cell
  8. WMCP Overload Protected Stainless Steel Miniature Load Cell with Male Threads

By optimizing the mechanical design of load cells to minimize their sensitivity to off-axis loading this can include use of materials, such as composites or alloys, which are more resistant to deformation and strain. It also includes the use of specialized geometries that can help to distribute forces more evenly and reduce the effects of off-axis loading.

As well, engineers utilize built-in electronic compensation to correct for the effects of off-axis loading. This may involve using additional sensors or feedback loops to monitor the load cell’s response to external forces and adjust the output accordingly.

Interface engineers use a multi-disciplinary approach to designing load cells that are more resistant to off-axis loading. By combining advances in mechanical design, electronics, manufacturing, and simulation, they are creating load cells that are the most accurate in by classification in the world.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

ConvexBT – The Most Innovative Load Button Load Cell

Eccentric Loading Analysis for SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell White Paper

Addressing Off-Axis Loads and Temperature Sensitive Applications

Benefits of Proof Loading Verification

How Do Load Cells Work?

New Technical White Paper Analyzes SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cells

/0 Comments/in /by

Interface recently introduced a revolutionary new miniature load cell, the SuperSC. The extremely compact design makes it an ideal all-purpose load cell with high accuracy measurement in an exceedingly small form factor.

The SuperSC (SSC) models are part of the Interface product line of shear s-cells. They are specifically designed as environmentally sealed and insensitive to off axis loading. This product is available in capacities ranging from 25 to 1000 lbf (100 N to 5 kN). The new SuperSC force transducer easily fits requirements for a high accuracy sensor that can be designed into components, equipment, and end products.

In our new technical white paper, Eccentric Loading Analysis for SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell, Interface’s Raymunn Machado-Prisbrey, Design Engineer for OEM Solutions, provides an extensive review of the performance and capabilities of the new SuperSC.

The paper details FEA analysis performed on spring elements of equivalent capacity, in this case 250 lbs. Two eccentric load scenarios were considered: a full scale axially applied load with three degrees of misalignment and a full scale load applied to the edge of the element loading surface. Results of this analysis are available in the new white paper, available for download here.

Additionally, the new technical review highlights SuperSC data, misalignment analysis and edge loading, providing results and images of each test.

The Eccentric Loading Analysis for SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell conclusion sums it up clearly. The Interface SuperSC S-Type Load Cell outperforms traditional s-type bending cells in output consistency and safety factor stability when loaded at three degrees of axial misalignment.

The SuperSC has a higher output change under edge loading conditions than the s-type design; however, linearity is much better and safety factor remains acceptable. S-bending cells are not capable of withstanding this level of edge loading from a mechanical standpoint.

You can also watch the recorded online seminar below to get the inside scoop on this revolutionary new product.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Interface Introduces SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell

Superior S-Types Webinar Recap and New SuperSC

 S-Type Load Cells 101

Interface OEM Solutions Process

 

Ruggedized Test and Measurement Solutions Webinar Recap

/0 Comments/in /by

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.

Force Measurement Solutions Demonstrations at Automotive Testing Expo

/0 Comments/in /by

Interface experts are returning to Novi, Michigan, to demonstrate new and popular force measurement solutions at the Automotive Testing Expo.  The focus of this year includes our multi-axis sensors, axial torsion and torque transducers, miniature load cells, wireless and testing rig solutions, instrumentation, along with our precision load cell technologies for all types of automotive testing and equipment used in the industry.

New SuperSC for Automotive Industry

One of the demonstrations will be Interface’s new SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell. This new product is an economical general purpose load cell with a compact design that measures tension and compression in one unit. It offers high performance capacities in a form factor 80% smaller and 50% lighter than other models of s-type shear beam load cells.

The SuperSC is an ideal product in end of line validation testing for automotive, individual automotive component testing, and fatigue or life cycle testing. It is versatile for machines, component tests, integration into a manufacturing or assembly line for real-time force monitoring.

Many automotive testing labs rely on an actuator for fatigue or lifetime expectancy testing. Without force measurement, testers can only tell when the product reaches failure. The SuperSC can provide early warnings on component performance and life degradation.

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 for imperial standards. They are environmentally sealed with an IP66 rating and offer high stiffness with low detection and is insensitive to off-axis loading.

AxialTQ Demonstration

Another product that will be a focus is the revolutionary AxialTQ™ Wireless Rotary Torque Transducer. Designed for the automotive industry, this transducer is common for advanced torque tests and in the electric vehicle markets. Interface presented a new white paper that provides comparative research related to the AxialTQ product, demonstrating its performance related to other offerings. Read AxialTQ Technical White Paper Details Comparative Testing.

To learn more about AxialTQ, watch this video demonstration.

Automotive Testing Applications

Interface will also be showcasing brake pedal load cells, our robot using multi-axis sensors, digital and portable instrumentation and custom solutions designed specifically for auto test engineers. One of these solutions that we will be sharing is our Electric Vehicle Structural Battery Testing application.

EV Battery Structural Testing

Structural EV battery testing is core to optimization as innovation drives electric vehicle battery design and sustainability. Automotive manufacturers and component testing engineers need to validate structural battery pack design for life expectancy against design targets, as well as crash test compliance and survivability. Working with the EV battery maker, Interface’s recommendation is our 1100 Ultra-Precision LowProfile Load Cells for use in-line with hydraulic or electromechanical actuators within the test stand. Interface’s 6A Series 6-Axis Load Cells are also used to capture reactive forces transmitting through pack structure. Multi-axis measurement brings greater system level insight and improved product success.

Bluetooth® Brake Pedal Animated Application Note

Additional Automotive Solutions and Resources

EV Battery Testing Solutions Utilize Interface Mini Load Cells

Electric Vehicle Battery Monitoring App Note

Torque Measurement for Electric Vehicles

Automotive Head Rest Testing App Note

Fine-Tuning Testing Solutions for Championship Racing Vehicles

Automotive Window Pinch Force Testing

Automotive Head Rest Testing Animated Application Note

Automotive + Vehicle Brochure

 

Interface New Product Releases Fall 2022

/0 Comments/in /by

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

/0 Comments/in /by

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

/0 Comments/in /by

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

/0 Comments/in /by

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