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.

Sketching Strength Solutions for Structural Supports

A variety of industries require heavy equipment that Shippingthe Construction industry and other Infrastructures often additional structural support. This includes support that prevents equipment, ships and buildings from falling, capsizing or collapsing.

The solution to this critical structural support typically comes in the form of a cantilever. In land and water vehicles, a boom is a protruding structure that has a special meaning depending on the type of ship, or the legs of a wheeled vehicle that are folded out when it needs to be stabilized.

In buildings, supports are internal lateral structural systems designed to improve the tipping stiffness and strength of high-rise buildings. This is a laterally load-bearing system located within the building. The entire system consists of a core structure connected to the surrounding columns of the building.

This type of column became popular in the 1980s as an addition to high-rise buildings, reaching up to 150 stories high due to their unique combination of architectural flexibility and structural efficiency. Outriggers have been adapted for large vehicles and boats, e.g. B. for big cranes, which are extremely top-heavy and can cause balance problems, or for Yachts, which need to be stabilized when stored out of water.

With the addition of these supports, various forms of testing must be carried out to ensure that the boom can support the vehicle or structure on which it is installed. This is where Interface's force measurement and monitoring products are used in various support applications.

Interface's load cells are used by support engineers, civil engineers and heavy equipment manufacturers, oil and gas, construction and marine chandlers. Read more about why Rigging engineers choose interface measurement solutions.

The role of force sensing sensors in outriggers is to provide highly accurate measurements of outrigger equipment during testing and in actual use. Applications range from integrating sensors into support equipment to load cells for real-time monitoring of the physical structure with supports.

The most commonly used support interface products include:

For example, B. Interface load shackle cells are used to measure forces during boom testing and on the boom equipment that supports the structure. The data from the sensor is important information to evaluate the structural integrity of the boom or structure and identify possible weak points.

Interface load cells, such as B. our load shackles or load pins are usually attached to strategic locations on the boom or structure where the greatest force is expected. The load cell is then connected to a data acquisition system (DAQ) or display device that records the force measurements. The data can then be analyzed to determine the maximum force applied to the boom or structure and the distribution of the force across the structure.

Load cells can also be used to monitor the performance of booms or structures over time. This can be helpful in detecting changes in structural integrity that may be caused by wear and tear, environmental influences, or other factors. The use of instruments with alarm functions is helpful and a tool for maintenance.

Load cells are an important safety feature in support devices. They can help prevent accidents and ensure equipment is used safely. A load cell is used to prevent a crane from collapsing during the construction of a high-rise building in a large, crowded city. The crane is used to lift a heavy beam. The load cell warns the operator when the load is too heavy.

Ultimately, force measurement offers several benefits for testing and monitoring various boom applications, including:

Increased Safety: By measuring the force acting on the boom, a load cell can help prevent overloading and damage to the boom. It is also valuable for continuous monitoring during lifting operations, e.g. B. with a crane or heavy machinery.
Improved Efficiency: By monitoring boom performance, a load cell can help identify potential problems early, helping to avoid costly downtime.
Reduced risk: By providing accurate data about the force acting on the boom, a load cell can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

Examples of how force measurement is used to test boom solutions in a variety of industries:

In the Oil and gas industry Load cells are used to test the booms of offshore drilling rigs. This ensures that the drilling rigs can be operated safely even in strong winds and waves.
In the Construction Industry Load cells are used to test the booms of cranes and other lifting equipment. This ensures that the equipment is safe and the booms are not overloaded.
Im Construction industry Load cells are used to check the structural integrity of bridges and other structures. This ensures that the structures are safe and do not collapse under load.

Supports play a critical role in the safety and support of vehicles, infrastructure projects and massive structures. Interface's force measurement products also play an important role in protecting booms and their operators. If you have a support use case and are wondering which products are best suited to your specific needs, please contact Interface's application engineers for assistance.

Sketching force solutions for structural supports