IMADA specializes in
force measurement

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- Basic Principle of Force Measurement SOLUTIONS BY FORCE
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Searchable by product name, product model or standard.
When searching by product model, enter the product model excluding the option code (-FA, -L, -NEXT, etc.).
*To search by solution, switch to “solution search.”

i.e., Load Cells, ZTA-50N, 7864 (for ISO 7864)

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*To search by product, switch to “product search.”

i.e., Compression, 7864 (for ISO 7864)

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Load Cell Overview & How to Use

Load Cells (Force Sensors)

Load Cell Overview How Best to Select Load Cell How Best to Integrate Load Cell How Best to Measure Handheld or Foot-Operated Load Cells for Specific Applications

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Force Measurement IMADA
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Load Cell Overview & How to Use

Load Cell Overview

Load Cells, also known as "Load Transducers" or "Load Sensors" are sensor that detects force or torque and converts its magnitude into an electrical signal.

They come in various shapes, such as beam, coin, or S-shape, and can be used for measurement in small spaces or built into specific equipment. There are also particular types with shapes suitable for unique samples such as vehicle handbrakes or footbrakes. Some can be used even in harsh environments such as high/low temperatures, high dust, or exposure to water.

They can be connected to a dedicated amplifier (display unit) to quantify and display the measurement results. Measurement data and pass/fail test value signals can be simply output, allowing for easy management of data, and interlocking of measurement results with equipment.

Although they are rarely seen in everyday, they are used in a variety of production facilities as fundamental. They support our daily lives, i.e., in the form of strength test and operability evaluation of automobile assembly parts and finished car bodies.

Click here to see the complete lineup of load cells.
List of all load cells >

How Best to Select Load Cell

There are five considerations.

1)Shape. Important to use a load cell with a fixing method and size suitable for the measurement space and sample. For example, coin-shaped are small and thin and can be inserted into narrow gaps, making them ideal for measurements in tight or unstable spaces.

2)Measurement Direction. Some are dedicated for compression or tension only, so it is necessary to confirm whether they can handle the measurement you want to make.

3)Measurement Environment. If you want to use them in an environment with restrictions such as temperature, you need select an appropriate type.

4)Maximum Force Value. Selecting a range higher than the expected force value will prevent damage. Especially in the case of frequent force loading, such as in equipment that is constantly in operation, selecting a range with a large margin will increase durability and lead to stable operation. You may also anticipate unintentional large forces, so it is recommended to select a range with a sufficient margin.

5)Measurement Accuracy. The accuracy of the combination of load cell and indicator depends on the type of indicator, and should be selected according to the measurement requirements. Higher accuracy leads to more accurate data management, but it also increases the labor, and difficulty of maintenance.

We offer product selection services tailored to your needs. Contact us.

*Functions and specifications of load cells and amplifiers vary depending on the model. Check the specifications on the product page for details.

How Best to Integrate Load Cell

Load cells can be integrated to facilities or external equipment to measure forces applied in the compression or tension direction, enabling force monitoring in production lines, process control, and finished product inspection.

Unlike force gauges, load cells are separated from the display unit, making them suitable for use in tight spaces. Rectangular shape is ideal for integration, and its structure is easy to fix with screws, making it easy to integrate into facilities or external equipment. IP-compliant (Ingress Protection) load cells can be deployed in harsh environments.

*Specifications of load cells vary depending on the model. Check the specifications on the product page for details.

How Best to Measure Handheld or Foot-Operated

Load cells can be held by hand and placed between samples, pushed directly, pulled, or rotated. You can also measure by stepping on the load cell with your foot. This is useful for measurement where force is actually applied to the sample using the hands or feet, and the sensation of the force is quantified, or when the sample is difficult to move, such as a finished product.

*Check the application videos on each product page to gain ideas how to measure by holding the load cell with hand or stepping on it with foot.
*Some torque load cells require an attachment (sold separately). Check the specifications on the product page for details.

Load Cells for Specific Applications

We offer specialized load cells for specific applications. Load cells for automatic and revolving doors is one example, which can be used for daily safety inspections in compliance with standards. Besides, there are various types such as crane scale type to meet a variety of force measurement needs.

*Check the specifications on the product page for details.