Guide to Force Sensors

Measure forces accurately with the right force sensors for your industrial application

By W. Aiman Mueller

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Force sensors or load sensors come in three main categories. First, tension sensors measure straight-line force in opposite directions away from each other; this is considered a positive force. Compression sensors measure straight-line force in opposite directions toward each other; this is called negative force. Third, shear sensors measure either tension or compression along askew directions, where the two forces are not in line with each other.

When comparing various force sensors, consider the measurement range and accuracy. Displacement of physical elements usually determines the force. Calibration force sensors associate force with deflection. Some of the basic elements that perform force sensing are S-beam, washer, platform, link, bolt, cantilever, load pin, tank weighing and several others. The main output categories are analog current, frequency or voltage, as well as series or parallel. There is also the force sensor switch.

Here are some of the main types of force sensors:

1. Sensor chips are basic force sensors.

2. Transducers are complex and provide an output.

3. Meters or instruments typically have displays and often process or condition signals.

4. Indicators or gauges have displays but no outputs.

5. Recorders track force measurements over time.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase force instruments from sources with broad selections

There are a lot of parameters for calibration force sensors, force gauges, a force sensor switch and other force sensing technologies. Shopping sources with large selections may mean looking through more products, but it will also help you find the best fit for your application. Also, look for sources that provide good technical data and support to help you buy force sensor technology.

I recommend: Futek Advanced Sensor Technology, Inc. offers a huge selection of sensors and provides helpful support tools to help you make the best choice. Transducer Techniques is another good place to look. Their stock includes beam load cells, force and torque sensors, displays and accessories.

Find specialty force sensor distributors

For very specialized types of force sensors, sometimes it's best to find a company that concentrates on niche products.

I recommend: Sensor Products, Inc. specializes in thin-film force sensor technology, and they provide live help online. Loadstar Sensors sells high-quality load sensors and excellent software. You could buy kits or just purchase the software.

Get the best information on the latest force sensor technology

For many applications, there's more than one way to get the job done. Take a quick look at some of the newest technologies to see if there's a product that exceeds your expectations.

I recommend: Tekscan provides some clear, concise information on their ultra-thin force sensor. They will customize one of these sensors to fit your application. Materials Research Society provides an article on a type of micro-force sensor that measures the characteristics of small amounts of substances, a rather unique use for a force sensor.

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