Properly mounting a load cell ensures the sensor provides the most stable readings and accurate measurements. Although a load cell will function no matter how it is oriented and operated in tension or compression mode, mounting instructions are specific to each sensor model.
Interface provides comprehensive load cell product datasheets and drawings to locate the features for mounting. Our instructions include model, material, capacity, mounting holes, threads and dowel pins, and pilot specifications for live and dead-end use.
Mechanical mounting is one of the most critical aspects determining your application’s success. This is a sensor-based decision, as load cell models have different features that can be used for various mounting requirements. We also provide a comprehensive library of model installation manuals.
Load cells not mounted by the manufacturer’s recommendations may not perform to specifications.
Make sure that mounting surfaces are clean, flat, and aligned.
Interface offers load cells with and without bases. When supplied together, the base is engineered to be an appropriate and “matching” mating surface for the sensor. If you are using a load cell without a base, it is important to mount it to something like the base in flatness, stiffness, and thickness so they do not deform under load.
Torque all mounting hardware to specifications.
Always confirm the load cell orientation: the “dead” end on mechanical reference or load forcing source and the “live” end connected to the load to be measured. Typically, the dead end is the end closest mechanically to the cable exit or connector.
Use proper hardware (thread sizes, jam nuts, and swivels) to connect the load to the load cell.
It is fundamental to have one and only one load path. This load path must be through the load axis of the load cell.
Utilizing best practices in mounting is extremely important. Learn more in Load Cell Mounting 101. Deflections in the system can introduce errors and apparent crosstalk into the sensor measurement. Additional Reference: Interface Sensor Mounting and Force Plates
HIGHLIGHTS FROM EXPLORING NEW PRODUCTS WEBINAR
New products are continuously added to Interface’s expanding catalog, which has over 40,000 SKUs. Customer needs and industry trends like digitalization, complete systems, multi-axis sensors and data acquisition, environmental conditions, and wireless connectivity drive these additions.
Our online technical seminar, Exploring Capabilities of New Measurement Products, provides an overview of 20 new products, highlighting features, capabilities, use cases, and applications. Learn more about new load cells, instrumentation, torque transducers, accessories, multi-axis sensors, and systems. The recorded webinar concluded with a checklist of starter questions for planning testing projects covering the goals, measurements, cycles, environments, data usage, installation, connections, storage, and reporting requirements. Read the summary and access the recorded event.
IN-HOME HEALTHCARE BENEFITS FROM MINIATURE LOAD CELL TECHNOLOGY
In-home healthcare innovators and product makers use miniature load cells to demonstrate greater impact in improving the accuracy, safety, and reliability of home-based medical devices. Interface Mini Load Cells are used for in-home healthcare device R&D, testing, and integrated measurement solutions. Load cells for these devices include standard and custom models, such as:
LOAD CELL TECHNOLOGIES LIFT PERFORMANCE OF GANTRY CRANES
Force measurement devices are essential for safe, efficient, and compliant gantry crane operation. A gantry crane is an overhead crane with a horizontal beam supported by two legs traveling along a fixed track or wheels. They are used for lifting and moving heavy objects in various industrial settings, such as warehouses, shipyards, container yards, and construction sites. Interface load cells, load pins, tension links, wireless telemetry systems, and instrumentation devices are used for overload protection, alarm systems, load handling, crane performance, and preventative measurement. Read more.
SUPPORTING INNOVATIVE AQUACULTURE APPLICATIONS
Interface’s collection of submersibles, subsea and ruggedized load cells, load pins, tension links, and instrumentation is meticulously designed to cater to diverse maritime industry applications, including aquaculture. These cutting-edge tools empower aqua culturists to make informed decisions and drive efficiencies. Interface offers sensor-based products that aid in advancements, research, and modernizing various facets of aquaculture. Interface load cells are used in applications that regulate harsh maritime situations, such as fish
farm mooring lines, cage monitoring, hatcheries and feed management structures, and scales used in real-time seafood weighing. Learn more.
RESOURCES AND MORE
IOT WEARABLES: Load cells are prevalent in designing, prototyping, testing, and using wearable IoT products, including shoes, sports gear, prosthetics, watches, and gaming headsets. Check it out.
PORTS AND TERMINALS: Various maritime sectors use Interface measurement, including equipment makers and operators at ports and waterway terminals. Read more about seaside applications.
DIGITAL INSTRUMENTATION PROTOCOL TOOL: We have created a handy Foundation Fieldbus Protocol System Options to guide you through digital instrumentation communication features.
INTERFACE YOUTUBE 200 VIDEOS: We produce several new videos monthly highlighting unique applications, industry solutions, and products. Check out our latest videos and let us know what captures your interest.
Our Application Engineers are ready to assist you with your specific projects. Let us know your specifications, and we will find the solution for your unique requirements.
