What is the difference between a force transducer and a load cell?

Force transducers and load cells are based on the same measuring principle – the strain gauge – and convert mechanical forces into electrical signals. The term load cell is predominantly used in weighing and process engineering, while force transducers cover the broader spectrum of force and torque measurement technology: from test benches in the aerospace industry to materials testing. interfaceforce® eK distributes both types in measuring ranges from 0,5 Newtons to 30 Meganewtons.

What types of force transducers does interfaceforce® eK offer?

The portfolio includes low-profile force transducers, S-shaped force transducers, miniature force transducers, measuring bolts, force rings, bending beam load cells, cylindrical high-load sensors, and multi-component transducers for up to 6 degrees of freedom (6DoF). All standard models are strain gauge based and supplied with a calibration certificate. Custom designs are developed according to customer specifications.

Which torque transducers are suitable for rotating applications?

For rotating shafts, torque measuring shafts (e.g., T2, T4, T6, T8, T11, T22, T25) are available, which operate without contact and without slip rings. The measuring ranges extend up to 10 kN·m. For static or reactive applications – such as in test benches or for measuring bolt preload – reaction torque transducers are used. Both variants provide strain gauge-based signals and are compatible with the measuring amplifiers from interfaceforce® eK.

How does the XSENSOR pressure distribution system work and what is it used for?

XSENSOR systems measure surface pressure distribution using ultra-flexible sensor mats in various geometries and resolutions. These imaging systems deliver precise, reproducible results and are used in automotive and medical technology, biomechanics, and point-of-sale applications – for example, for seat pressure analysis, tire contact patch measurement, mattress diagnostics, and wiper testing. The XSENSOR laboratory is accredited according to ISO/IEC 17025 (A2LA).

What measurement accuracy do the force transducers from interfaceforce® eK achieve?

The low-profile force transducers of the Interface series (e.g., 1200, 1201, 3200) typically achieve a total static error band of ≤ 0,02% of the nominal value (full-scale output). The Gold Standard® and Platinum Standard® reference force transducers are suitable for calibration tasks according to ISO 376 Class 0,5. All sensors are supplied with a calibration certificate; A2LA-accredited certificates according to ISO/IEC 17025 are available upon request.

Does interfaceforce® eK also perform calibrations of third-party sensors?

Yes. The calibration laboratory of interfaceforce® eK is ISO/IEC 17025 accredited (A2LA and DAkkS mutually recognized within the framework of the ILAC MRA) and calibrates force measuring devices regardless of the manufacturer. Supported standards: ISO 376, DKD-R 3-3, ASTM E74, VDI/VDE 2624, and custom calibration procedures. Force measuring ranges: 0,5 N to 250 kN (tension and compression). An RMA number will be issued in advance for submissions; the delivery address for calibrations and repairs is c/o SETFLEX, Oppelner Str. 23, 41199 Mönchengladbach, Germany.

How does a calibration process work and how long does it take?

The process begins with an inquiry via contact form or email; interfaceforce® eK promptly issues an RMA number. Upon receipt of the device, calibration is performed in an ISO 17025-accredited laboratory using static tensile and/or compressive force measurements with traceable transfer standards (DAkkS, NIST, or PTB). Calibrations according to ISO 376 or DKD-R 3-3 include multiple load stages in various mounting positions. Turnaround times are short – precise details are available upon request. The completed calibration certificate is internationally recognized.

Which force transducers are suitable for use in ATEX or explosion-hazardous areas?

For hazardous areas (ATEX/IECEx), interfaceforce® eK offers force transducers from the 3400 series as well as hermetically sealed sensor variants made of stainless steel. These models are designed for harsh and potentially explosive environments and deliver reliable measurement results even under continuous operation. For specific hazardous area requirements (Zone 1, Zone 2, etc.), we recommend individual consultation, as suitability depends on the respective device category and the medium being used.

From what quantity are special solutions and customer-specific force transducers available?

Custom designs are available even for single units. interfaceforce® eK develops customer-specific force transducers, torque transducers, and multi-component sensors based on over 25 years of experience and in-house strain gauge manufacturing. Rapid engineering and rapid prototyping enable solutions to be implemented in short lead times – from concept to series production. Application areas range from niche markets with small production runs to OEM integrations in high-volume series.

What distinguishes interfaceforce® eK from other providers in force measurement technology?

interfaceforce® eK has been the exclusive distributor in Germany for Interface Inc. (founded in 1968, Scottsdale, USA) since 1999 – one of the world's leading manufacturers of precision strain gauge-based force transducers. The service portfolio combines American manufacturing quality with local support: an ISO 17025-accredited calibration laboratory in Germany (A2LA/DAkkS, ILAC MRA), manufacturer-independent calibrations and repairs, custom manufacturing starting from a single unit, and exclusive distribution of XSENSOR pressure distribution systems. Measuring ranges from 0,5 Newtons to 30 Meganewtons cover virtually every industrial force measurement application.

What output signal do the force transducers provide, and what measuring amplifier do I need?

Strain gauge-based force transducers deliver a bridge signal of typically 2 mV/V or 4 mV/V at rated load. Further processing requires a measuring amplifier that converts this signal into a usable format – e.g., 0–10 V, 4–20 mA, USB, IO-Link, or digital interfaces. interfaceforce® eK offers suitable measuring amplifiers as complete measurement chains: from simple digital displays (IFFDA93, IFFDA5) and 8-channel data acquisition systems (IFFBX8) to wireless telemetry systems (WTS). Sensors with a TEDS chip also enable automatic parameterization at the measuring amplifier.

What protection ratings (IP classes) are available for the force transducers?

Most standard models are designed for industrial use and achieve protection ratings of IP65 to IP67 (dustproof, protected against water jets and temporary immersion). Hermetically sealed versions made of stainless steel achieve IP68 and are suitable for underwater, cleaning, and outdoor applications under harsh conditions. Certified versions are available for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX/IECEx). The exact IP rating can be found in each product data sheet; interfaceforce® eK is available upon request to advise on application-specific selection.

How often should a force transducer be recalibrated?

There are no legally mandated intervals; however, ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and industry-standard quality assurance systems recommend annual verification. In practice, the interval depends on the intensity of use, environmental conditions, and the required measurement uncertainty. In safety-critical applications or after mechanical overload events, immediate recalibration is recommended. The interfaceforce laboratory performs manufacturer-independent recalibrations with short turnaround times – even for sensors from other manufacturers.

What is TEDS and what advantages does it offer?

TEDS (Transducer Electronic Data Sheet, IEEE 1451.4) is an electronic data storage device integrated into the sensor or connector that automatically transmits calibration data and sensor characteristics to the measuring amplifier. This eliminates manual input and parameterization errors when replacing sensors – the measurement setup is ready for operation via plug-and-play. The IFFDA93 handheld device and other measuring amplifiers from interfaceforce® eK support the TEDS standard and enable quick, error-free commissioning, even with frequent sensor replacements.

What are parasitic forces and how do they affect measurement?

Parasitic forces are unwanted shear forces, bending moments, or torsional loads that act on the sensor simultaneously with the actual measuring force and can distort the result. Even an angular deviation of 5° in the load application causes a systematic error. To minimize parasitic influences, interfaceforce® eK recommends using rod ends, pressure load buttons, and mounting plates – all available as accessories. The interfaceforce® eK team provides support for sensor selection and installation advice upon request.

What are the delivery times and can I order small quantities?

Standard models from Interface Inc. that are in stock are available for immediate delivery. Custom designs and customer-specific receivers are manufactured upon receipt of order; thanks to rapid prototyping, initial samples are often available within a few weeks. There is no minimum order quantity – orders are possible starting from a single unit. Inquiries and orders can be made via email (info@interfaceforce.de), telephone (+49 8022 271667), or the contact form on the website.

Industry 5.0 and the role of force measurement

The next industrial revolution is called Industry 5.0. The fifth wave of significant advances follows Industry 4.0, which focused on improving efficiency and productivity. The next revolution that lies ahead depends heavily on data, sensors and tools for the industrial automation away. Of course, this means that Interface's sensor solutions are perfectly tailored to support the next advances.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI), Robotic and other intelligent technologies is the heart of Industry 5.0. In order to further automate and optimize production processes, the focus is on humanity, sustainability and resilience. Interface works with industry leaders, integrators and innovators to deliver advanced sensing technologies that will support the adoption of Industry 5.0 products with all the benefits of optimization and reliability.

One of the challenges in developing and implementing Industry 5.0 solutions is connectivity. In order to maximize connectivity between people and machines, systems must be tested and monitored with various sensors for acceptance, efficiency and reliability. The use of robotics, AI and other intelligent technologies leads to greater sustainability in industrial and manufacturing facilities. This requires measurement data that is accurate and can be easily stored for continuous improvement. Find out more in our case study: Advances in robotics and cobots with interface sensors.

Wireless force measurement

The use of wireless and Bluetooth technologies is common to facilitate the connection between sensors and data analysis used in defining the use of these technologies in manufacturing and industrial environments. Because of the engagement wireless load cells with wireless digital instrumentation Data is used for real-time adjustments and performance monitoring. This is particularly important for managing the safety of employees working with advanced machines and robots. Check out our WTS- and BTSsolutions for more options.

Freedom of movement is particularly important for robotics. This is a standard for future applications, especially as manufacturers' reliance on advanced robotics applications across manufacturing increases. To test advanced robotics and accurate movements for different axes, multi-axis sensors are a good choice as they can measure 2, 3 and 6 axes simultaneously. These sensors are used with data collection systems like ours BX8 data acquisition system for multi-axis sensors combined to fully exploit the depth of measurement data for better decisions.

We also help enable automation of the entire production line. Our products test the quality, durability and accuracy of performance of machines and other equipment used for various functions in the production line. This includes the use of miniature load cells in devices that rely on precise force to press a design onto a delicate consumable, to checking the accuracy of intricately machined parts using multi-axis sensors for production lines. We have supplied sensors for industrial automation solutions to thousands of customers, using standard and custom application-specific sensors.

Industry 5.0 applications with solutions from Interface

Below are some Industry 5.0 applications where interface solutions have been used to test or monitor devices.

Cobot safety programming

Collaborative robots, so-called cobots, are a further development of Industry 5.0 that is used in many manufacturing companies. With product testing and design improvements based on sensor data, protective cages or fences are no longer necessary for security purposes. Still, safety testing is needed to ensure that humans and robots can work alongside each other. For this application, Interface recommends using four 3A40 3-axis load cells (which make a 6-axis force plate) that are installed between two metal plates at the base of the robot. In addition to installing the multi-axis force plate under the robot, we recommend using two ConvexBT Load Button load cells in the robot's pincers. If a human bumps into the robot or a limb gets stuck in the pliers, the robot detects the force measured by the load cells and is programmed to stop immediately. Our BlueDAQ series data acquisition system BX8-HD44 for multi-axis sensors with laboratory housing is used to capture measurements and report them in real time for monitoring.

6-axis force plate robot arm for worker safety

A customer wanted to measure the reaction forces of his robot arm for safety purposes. The reaction forces occurred at the base of the robot arm; therefore, he needed a force measurement system at the base of the robot arm. Interface suggested installing the optional force plate at the base of the robot arm. Four 3-axis load cells will be between two Force plates installed, which are then attached to the lower end of the arm. This creates a large 6-axis force plate. The force data from the sensors is recorded and transmitted across the two BX8 multi-channel bridge amplifiers and data acquisition systems displayed on the customer's computer. Interface's 6-axis force plate was able to successfully measure the reaction forces of the customer's robotic arm while it was in action alongside employees.

Commercial food processing for greater efficiency

A food processing company wanted accurate results from its live checkweigher as food was weighed and processed on the line. They wanted to ensure the efficiency of the production line and the quality of the food. The customer also wanted real-time results of the food being weighed and a load cell that could withstand the dirty conditions of the food industry. Multiple load cells SPI High Capacity Platform Scale from Interface were installed in the customer's checkweigher at the points where the food is weighed on the belt. The load cells of the SPI high-performance platform scale delivered precise weighing results. In connection with that 920i Programmable Weight Indicator and Controller They provided the customer with real-time results about the weight of the processed food. With this solution, the customer received precise, real-time weighing results for the food processed on their live checkweigher. He was also able to view all of the load cells in use simultaneously with Interface's instrumentation.

Many benefits are expected from the next industrial revolution, Industry 5.0. Being at the forefront of providing usable and sustainable sensor solutions is a key focus of Interface. We look forward to supporting those driving the changes and the introduction of numerous benefits, especially in relation to the target groups:

Higher productivity by automating tasks and optimizing production processes.
Improved product quality through the use of advanced technologies to monitor and control production processes.
New products and services by using advanced technologies to develop personalized and tailored products that work together like cobots.
Using collaborative machines and tools to reduce reliance on humans for repetitive and dangerous tasks.

Each of these benefits can be accelerated through the use of high-precision force measurement solutions during development, testing and implementation. Industry 5.0 is just around the corner, and Interface has the know-how and experience to help launch and leverage it. To learn more about our work in automation, robotics and more, go to Industrial