Force Measurement

The nominal force or nominal load of the transducer is the magnitude up to the value of which the transducer is nominally designed. 

The maximum utility force is the value up to which no displacement of the zero point is the result after returning to the nominal load range. Up to the maximum utility force, the force transducer will not be damaged if the force transducer is not used several times within this range. 

The breaking force is the limit above which mechanical destruction is to be expected. 

Force measurements are carried out using special sensors that convert mechanical loads into electrical signals. These signals are then analyzed to obtain accurate readings of the forces applied. The technology behind these sensors is based on principles of material deformation and piezoresistivity that make it possible to detect and quantify the smallest changes. 

If the tensile force is to be determined, a measuring device is pulled with a certain force, while a measurement of the compressive force is used to press a certain force on a force measuring device. Force gauges, force sensors, force transmitters and force transducers are used for general force. 

Force sensors are essential components in measurement technology, which consist mainly of a deformation body, usually aluminum or stainless steel. This deformation is generated by targeted force and converted into electrical signals with the help of a Wheatstone measuring bridge. The primary purpose of these sensors is to measure strain and compression, which are detected via strain gauges and temperature compensated to ensure high precision. 

Force sensors are used in many forms, including as: 

• Load cells that are specifically designed to measure weight, 
• Shear force transducers that are based on the principle of shear force measurement and compensate for disturbances such as shear forces or torques, 
• Measuring pins used in the monitoring of loads in hoists. 

In addition to traditional load cells, there are more cost-effective strain transducers that can be used on steel components for displacement measurement, as well as bending beams, which are often used in weighing technology. These technologies offer flexible solutions for various monitoring and measurement tasks in industry and research. 

Piezoresistive force sensors

These force sensors are based on the piezoresistive principle, in which certain materials change their electrical resistance when exposed to mechanical stress. They are ideally suited for precise force measurements, as they are sensitive to changes in mechanical stress and can therefore provide accurate measurement results. 

Miniature Force Sensor

With these force sensors, you can take measurements even if there is limited space. They also work on the piezoresistive principle, in which the electrical resistance of the sensor changes due to the deformation caused by the applied force. The miniature force sensors can be used in a variety of ways, regardless of whether you are planning a static or dynamic force measurement.