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Taking Measure of Miniature Load Cells Webinar

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Interface force measurement engineers and solution experts host an online discussion focused on products used to withstand one or more conditions related to temperature, cycling, moisture, environmental stresses. Learn about Interface’s stainless steel load cells, environmentally sealed options, submersible test and measurement products, enclosures, wireless capabilities, load pins, intrinsically safe products. We detail solutions used for all types of applications used in industries that include medical device, aerospace and defense, industrial automation, infrastructure, maritime and general test & measurement. We discuss sensors models, capabilities, features and FAQs. We dive into use cases, tips, measurement know-how and OEM products.

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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.

Ruggedized Test and Measurement Solutions Webinar

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Interface force measurement engineers and solution experts host an online discussion focused on products used to withstand one or more conditions related to temperature, cycling, moisture, environmental stresses. Learn about Interface’s stainless steel load cells, environmentally sealed options, submersible test and measurement products, enclosures, wireless capabilities, load pins, intrinsically safe products. We detail solutions used for all types of applications used in industries that include medical device, aerospace and defense, industrial automation, infrastructure, maritime and general test & measurement. We discuss sensors models, capabilities, features and FAQs. We dive into use cases, tips, measurement know-how and OEM products.

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Weighing Your Options Webinar Recap

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Most often the subject of weighing is a reference to scales. Although most of the world knows Interfaced for our expertise in test and measurement, aerospace, automotive, energy, and medical industries, we know our way around all kinds of weighing applications and scales.

In fact, load cells are truly the heart of every scale system and make modern use cases for highly accurate weight data possible. At Interface, we design, manufacture, and guarantee the highest performing load cells in the world.

In our online seminar, Weighing Your Options, Keith Skidmore, and Jeff White detail Interface products used for weighing, along with engineering tips, applications, and frequently asked questions.

How have sensors historically been used for weighing and lifting? The most common uses are in weigh modules, floor, and bench scales, along with truck and rail transport weighcheck systems. Interface’s involvement in providing measurement solutions have traditionally focused on test and measurement applications, sensors for machines and rigs, as well as use in weighing components. Trends are moving to complete weighing solutions.

Sensors are used throughout the product life cycle, from R&D to distribution, including

  • Weighing individual parts or components
  • Equipment and machines that measure weight during assembly and production
  • Weighing ingredients in food and chemical processes
  • Weighing products during distribution
  • Weighing before and during transportation

Interface load cells can measure across a wide range of force, from 0.02 to 2,000k lbf.  Interface products used in weighing applications are diverse in design, including:

Our weighing sensors combined with available instrumentation use a variety of communication methods, including analog, digital, wireless and cloud based, to allow users to gather data in-facility or remotely. Junction boxes such as our JB1100 4-Channel Advanced Signal Conditioning Transmitter Indicator and Junction Box are frequently used for weighing systems. We can also customize sensors to meet specifications for weighing use cases.

Most Common Types of Instrumentation Used for Weighing

  • Analog Signal Conditioners
  • Digital Signal Conditioners
  • Active Junction Boxes
  • Digital Displays
  • Programmable Weight Controllers
  • Data Acquisition Systems
  • Wireless and Specialty Devices

Interface has also introduced several weigh system modules, like the WSSCLC-Mount Weighing Assembly. It is a stainless-steel construction and available in three sizes. It incorporates a safety retainer to prevent accidental vessel lifting or sliding. When used with Model WSSCLC Load Cell, the system is IP68 rated and good for rugged applications.

The place to start with any new weighing application is what do you need to weigh by and what is the smallest increasing increment? Interface application engineers can help you choose the correct equipment, including the load cell, weigh module, instrumentation, and any accessories. They will review the requirements such as live load, dead load, number of supports, washdown, weighing materials, temperature and temperature swings, hazardous environment and exposure, type of vessel, measurements of compression or tension, mixers or shakers attachments, rigid conduit, or piping and even shock loading issues.

Watch the complete online seminar to learn more about weighing systems used for tank and hoppers, conveyor belts, industrial equipment, continuous weighing and automation features for alarms and safety requirements. We detail do’s and don’ts along with frequently asked questions.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Accuracy Matters for Weighing and Scales

Livestock Weighing System Application Note

Fruit Weighing

INF4-EtherCat Two, Three, and Four Sensor Weight Transmitter and Indicator

CPG Water Bottle Dispensing and Weighing

New Interface Case Study Exams Weighing and Scales

CPG Veterinary Weighing Scales

 

 

Weighing Your Options Webinar

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Interface force measurement experts detail solutions used for all types of weighing and lifting applications. We discuss sensor models, capabilities, features and tips using various load cells, load pins, shackles, tension links, weighcheck systems and instrumentation. Learn about use cases, FAQs, measurement applications, options for harsh environments and OEM products. If you are exploring quality measurement solutions that provide high accuracy and reliability for scales, cranes, lifting equipment or tools, join us.

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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.

I’ve Got a Load Cell – Now What? Episodes 3 and 4

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Continuing our review of the popular webinar series, I’ve Got a Load Cell – Now What?, we are detailing the third and fourth episodes. The focus of these two installments is documentation that you should expect with every load cell and the fundamentals of load cell output.

Digging into documentation is an important subject for anyone that is buying or using load cells for test and measurement. It is also a differentiator in the quality and type of manufacturer that makes your device. The details provided in load cell documentation validates the characteristics and performance, as well as experience and craftmanship used in the engineering and construction of your load cell.

When quality and accuracy matters, documentation and certification are critical verification evidence.

Load Cell Documentation: Datasheets and Calibration Certificates

Interface provides detailed datasheets for every load cell model number. On the top of the datasheet, the Interface model number precedes the description of the load cell’s primary characteristics, such as 1200 Standard Load Cell. The Interface Calibration Certification accompanies every sensor device we manufacturer and ship from our U.S. headquarters, confirming the final condition prior to release. Interface calibrates every load cell we make before it leaves our facilities as part of our performance guarantee.

INTERFACE DATASHEET FUNDAMENTALS

  • Features and Benefits
  • Standard Configuration and Drawings
  • Dimensions
  • Specification Parameters Based on Model and Capacity
  • Detailed Measurement and Performance Data for Accuracy, Temperature, Electrical and Mechanical
  • Options
  • Connection Options
  • Accessories

Special note for datasheet reviews, the models that use the same form factor are often on the same datasheet with varying capacity measuring ranges in U.S. (lbf) and Metric (kN) information.  All Interface datasheets are available for review and download for every product we offer, including load cells, torque transducers, multi-axis sensors, mini load cells, load pins and load shackles, instrumentation and accessories.

INTERFACE CALIBRATION CERTIFICATES DETAILSIQ

  • Model Number
  • Serial Number
  • Bridge and Capacity
  • Procedures
  • Input and Output Resistance
  • Zero Balance
  • Test Conditions: Temperature, Humidity and Excitation
  • Traceability
  • Shunt Calibration
  • Performance Test Data of Test Load Applied and Recorded Readings
  • Authorized Approval

The performance information detailed on the certificate is important for how it was calibrated, how it performed at release, system health checks and troubleshooting. Watch the episode #3 of I’ve Got a Load Cell – Now What? for additional information about datasheets and cal certs.

Fundamentals of Load Cell Output

Load cells are used in one of two ways, either universal (bipolar) or single mode (unipolar). Bipolar is for measuring tension and compression. Unipolar is for measuring either tension or compression. This use type will dictate what output you will get from the load cell. Most Interface load cells are a tension upscale device, which means you will get a positive output when it is placed in tension.

Standard load cells are usually unamplified mV/V ratio metric output. Interface does offer amplification signals for our load cells, which is a common request when pairing with a data acquisition system. In episode #4 of I’ve Got A Load Cell – Now What?, Elliot provides an example of mV/V ratio metric when using a 5000 lbf LowProfile Load Cell with our 9840 Instrumentation.

For questions about datasheets, calibration certifications or performance and capacities, please contact our application engineers.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Interface 1200 Precision LowProfile Load Cell Series Product Highlight

Load Cell Basics Technical Q&A Part One

Load Cell Basics Technical Q&A Part Two

Understanding Load Cell Temperature Compensation

Load Cell Basics Sensor Specifications

 

I’ve Got a Load Cell – Now What? Episodes 1 and 2

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Interface has produced more than 100 videos, all available on our Interface YouTube channel.  We provide product videos, industry and application use cases, training, software, and set-up instructions, ForceLeaders webinars, and video discussions with our force measurement solutions experts.

One of our most popular videos is our webinar that answers the question, I’ve Got a Load Cell – Now What? In this online seminar, we discuss some of the basics about load cells, as well as offer tips for checking the health of your load cell, installation tips, usage best practices and monitoring performance.  The series concludes with an in-depth Q&A session. As with all good material, we offer a modern remake to this valuable online resource with a refreshed 7-part series that addresses important load cell topics with visual demonstrations.

In the updated series, I’ve Got a Load Cell – Now What, Interface’s Brian Peters and Elliot Speidell cover the following load cell basic topics:

  • Episode #1 Visual Inspection of Your Load Cell
  • Episode #2 How to Read the Load Cell Label
  • Episode #3 Load Cell Documentation: Datasheets and Calibration Certificates
  • Episode #4 Fundamentals of Load Cells
  • Episode #5 Load Cell Instrumentation Tips and Setup
  • Episode #6 Checking Load Cell Health and Usage Best Practices for LowProfiles, SM S-Type Load Cells and Miniature WMC Load Cells
  • Episode #7 Q&A with Brian and Elliot address incoming questions on what to do

Over the next several weeks, we’ll be highlighting some of the material that is covered in these short clips.  Today’s focus is about visual inspection and how to read a load cell label.

Visual Inspection of Your Load Cell

Visual inspection is critical for all load cells. The good news is that Interface provides quality-controlled inspection of all load cells before they leave our factory. If you are about to utilize a load cell that you have had on the shelf or has not been used for a while, visual inspection is an important first step. In this video, Brian highlights what to look for during your inspection:

  • Thread damage
  • Condition of the exterior load cell
  • Noticeable wear from exposure
  • Check for any rust
  • Inspect connectors and pins

Watch I’ve Got a Load Cell – Now What? Begin with Visual Inspection


Upon your inspection, if you would like Interface to provide a detailed inspection and calibration service before you utilize an existing sensor, contact our services team.

How to Read Interface Load Cell Labels

In this short episode, we highlight how to read an Interface load cell label. Every device we manufacturer has essential information about the sensor detailed on the label. You will find the model number, capacity, serial number and often you find options and option codes that detail the exact sensor features. Labels can also provide output data from time of calibration. To get a complete run-down on what is on Interface labels, watch I’ve Got a Load Cell – Now What? Reading Interface Sensor Labels.

Looking for more videos or resources, be sure to go to Interface’s online support resources. You will find diagrams, installation manuals, technical and troubleshooting details, educational videos and more.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Interface Presents Load Cell Basics
Load Cell Basics Technical Q&A Part One
Load Cell Basics Technical Q&A Part Two
Get an Inside Look at Interface’s Famously Blue Load Cells

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.

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