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.

Clarity in measurement requires a clear display of accurate results

The test and measurement data you obtain with our high-precision sensors is only as valuable as your ability to manage and present the results, whether you are accurately measuring force with a load cell, quantifying rotational force with a torque transducer, or capturing complex interactions with a multi-axis sensor.

Displays are a critical bridge that converts raw electrical signals into easily understandable values. They provide instant feedback, enabling real-time adjustments, critical process monitoring, and reliable data acquisition. This ensures the integrity and accuracy of your entire test and measurement program, whether in a controlled laboratory environment, a dynamic on-site environment, or continuous measurement monitoring.

The right display provides critical data, increases operational efficiency, and minimizes potential errors. By providing a direct visual representation of measured parameters, displays enable users to quickly identify trends, identify anomalies, and make informed decisions without having to rely on cumbersome post-processing or complex software analysis. This immediate insight is critical for ensuring test validity, optimizing processes, and maintaining the highest quality control standards across diverse applications.

WTS-LD1 Wireless Large LED Display

The wireless LED large display features a large, four-digit display that shows individual WTS transmitter values or the total value of up to eight modules. The large screen features a 4-digit module with a 102 mm (4-inch) LED display. Mounting options include ceiling suspension or wall mounting.

The data transmitted by the modules can be used by various receivers, including displays, handheld readers, analog outputs, relay modules, and computer interfaces. These receivers are compatible with standard industrial power supplies and housed in rugged, IP-rated enclosures with internal antennas for optimal coverage.

Using Interface's WTS Toolkit software and a USB base station, users can quickly and easily select and configure the appropriate transmitter modules. The WTS Toolkit also offers configuration options for the display format and zeroing functions. Additionally, wired logic inputs enable remote control of the tare and net/gross switching functions.

WTS-LD2 Wireless Large LED Display

The LD2 wireless LED large display offers the same features as the WTS LD1 display, with a large six-digit format that displays individual WTS transmitter values or the total value of up to eight modules.

Instrumentation Displays

9840 Calibrable multi-channel load cell display device

The Interface 9840 indicator is ideal for calibration labs, field service personnel, or other areas where high accuracy is critical. This product features a bipolar 6-digit, 2-line display, remote sampling, low noise, internal 24-bit resolution, a USB port with RS232 communication, mV/V calibration, calibration storage for up to 25 sensors, 6-point linearization, unit conversion, and front-panel tare. Additionally, this device features self-calibration via TEDS and is plug-and-play with IEEE 1451.4 compliance.

9870 high speed high performance TEDS readiness indicator

The Interface 9870 indicator measures and displays load, pressure, and torque measurements precisely and graphically. Offering features typically found in larger HM/displays in a 9870/1 DIN-size indicator, the 8 features a high-performance color LCD. Its vivid display instantly indicates process status. Each alarm provides intuitive and independent indication of process conditions. The 9870 is plug-and-play (TEDS). The 9870 supports IEEE 1451.4 TEDS through the use of Interface load cells; automatic calibration is performed, eliminating complicated calibration and reducing human error.

9812 Panel display for a single mV/V transducer

The 9812 Panel Mount Display from Interface is our most popular panel meter with a 1/8-DIN load cell input, featuring high precision and stability. The load cell reading is displayed via a 6-digit, 7-segment LED display, coupled with an ultra-high-resolution 20-bit A/D converter and a highly stable strain gauge bridge excitation source to provide perfect resolution and stability for your measuring instruments. The digital display features a modular design, allowing you to configure it with the functionality you require. This flexible approach ensures you only pay for the features you need. It's ideal for weight, torque, strain, pressure, and tension measurements.

TIP: Use the Selection guide of instrument selection interface to review your options.

Additional instrumentation solutions with function displays for test and measurement applications

The 9894 Analog Input Process Indicator and the display have specifications and features that make it one of the most advanced process measuring instruments on the market.

9894 Analog Input Process Indicator and the display enables easy display of strain bridge-based measurements such as load cells, torque transducers and pressure gauges with a sensitivity of up to +/-1 V/V.

The programmable weight display and control 1280 is a programmable digital weight indicator with color touchscreen, web server view and multiple protocol types that offer uncompromising speed.

The battery-operated Bluetooth weight indicators 4850 are wireless digital displays housed in a NEMA 4X stainless steel enclosure.

9812-WTS Wireless Panel Mount Display for single transmitters displays data from all WTS radio transmitter modules and is part of the modular WTS telemetry system

WTS-BS-1-HA Wireless Handheld Display for Multiple Transmitters is a portable display for up to 12 wireless transmitter modules and is part of the modular telemetry system WTS.

WTS-BS-1 Wireless Handheld Display displays unlimited transmitter data from any WTS radio transmitter module and form.#

Selecting the right display is an essential part of building a robust and effective test and measurement system. From large, high-visibility LED displays for rapid monitoring to sophisticated multi-channel displays with advanced calibration capabilities, Interface offers a comprehensive range of display solutions tailored to the diverse needs of each application. By providing a clear and reliable view of your sensor data, these displays enable you to realize the full potential of your measurements, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and confidence in your results.

Clarity in measurement requires a clear display of the exact results

Instrumentation Displays

Additional instrumentation solutions with function displays for test and measurement applications