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.

Connectors 101 | Interfaceforce

The connection between your measurement sensor and the measuring device for capturing and processing the output data is fundamental to any test and measurement facility. Where should the measurement results be sent for analysis, display, or storage? The answer often depends on a seemingly simple component: the connector.

If you use a cable with your sensor, you will inevitably need a Plug. Most interface sensors and measuring devices use cables fitted with connectors to create a reliable electrical signal path. Check out our overview of the most important cables and connectors

The main exception to this wired approach is the increasing adoption of wireless communication protocols, where sensor readings are transmitted to a wireless meter, eliminating the need for physical connection altogether.

Interface connectors are the critical link that physically and electrically connects the sensor cable end to the corresponding receptacle on the measuring device. When selecting a cable for your test and measurement application, pay careful attention to the connector type on both ends to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. For more information, see our Online Reference Electrical Wiring and Diagrams.

Connectors on the measuring device, such as those integrated into load cells, torque transducers, and multi-axis sensors, typically feature a connector (often referred to as a plug). This connector is designed to securely connect to the corresponding receptacle (female) of the measuring device.

TIP: Use our Interface sensor connection cable guideto establish the connection according to the sensor models

Technical definitions for connectors

Connector: An electromechanical component that forms a separable interface between two or more electrical circuits or signal paths. In test and measurement, connectors ensure reliable and repeatable signal transmission between the sensor and the measuring device.
Transducer (sensor): A device that converts a physical quantity, such as force, weight, or torque, into an electrical signal that can be measured and interpreted by a measuring instrument.
Instrumentation device: An electronic instrument used to acquire, condition, process, display, and/or record signals from measuring transducers. Examples include Data acquisition systems (DAQ), Signal conditioner and Display devices.
Cable: An arrangement of one or more electrical conductors. In test and measurement technology, cables represent the physical path for signal transmission between the sensor and the measuring device.
Male connector: A connector type with one or more protruding pins or contacts that mate with the corresponding receptacles or contacts of a female connector to establish an electrical connection. Typically located at the end of the sensor cable.
Panel connector (female): A type of connector with one or more sockets or contacts that accept the protruding pins or contacts of a connector to create an electrical connection. Typically found on a meter.
Wireless communication protocol: A method for transmitting data without physical cables. See our wireless telemetry systemCommon protocols in test and measurement technology, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, eliminate the need for physical connections for signal transmission.
Mating: The process of joining two complementary connectors (a plug and a socket) to create an electrical and mechanical connection.

Understanding these basic concepts and the critical role of connectors can help ensure robust and reliable data acquisition in your test and measurement applications. Selecting the right connector type for your specific transducer and measurement equipment is critical to achieving accurate and meaningful results.

Interface connections

Interface provides pin diagrams for our sensors and gauges in the model specifications, where applicable. You can find these diagrams in the datasheets for each product. We've included all drawings on the website under the product details.

Connection configuration considerations

sensor model
Matching plug
Socket type
connector type

use this Guide to selecting device connections. Devices not listed use screw terminal connections.

Mating connector

Mating connector are considered interface accessories. They are also available in standard and customized Interface cable assemblies Available. Interface's standard mating connector models are MC-001, MC-002, CN-207, CN-208, and CN-214.

Designed for use with Interface products
Manufactured with the highest quality components and processes
Designed to meet the specifications of the product for which they are intended
Matching plugs and cables
Ready-made pigtails
Connections between load cell and instruments

connector types

Bayonet type
Screw
Circular type
D-Sub type

Standard cable connector models

PT06A-10-6S-SR 6-pin Amphenol bayonet plug sockets, bayonet lock, aluminum alloy
M12 5-pin Binder circular connector sockets of the 423 series, panel socket, solder
M16 24-pin connector, female, unshielded, waterproof, IP67 protection class
DB9 9-pin D-Sub connector DB9 connector, D-Sub connector
770 8-pin Binder bayonet connector cable connector unshielded, soldered, protection class IP67
DB44 44-pin high-density D-Sub connector DB44 male, high-density D-Sub connector

Keep our Brochure on cables and connectors for reference. Interface accessory products are manufactured using the highest quality components and processes to ensure that the specifications of your Interface products meet published standards.

Connector 101