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Special force transducers

Special force transducers from WIKA: a success factor of experience

We refer to force transducers that do not fit into any standard design as special force transducers, also called strain gauges or strain sensors. Due to the specification of the requirement, in some cases design-engineered solutions must be considered. As a long-standing manufacturer of force measurement technology, WIKA brings this expertise into play and can find the best and, at the same time, most economical solution for the customer. Among our special force transducers or strain gauges are, for example, force sensors for determining the weight of containers (twistlock sensors) or for checking rope tension (wire rope force transducers). The applications in which strain sensors are used are wide-ranging and always require great experience in engineering. You can count on this when you trust in the right solution from WIKA.
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What is a strain transducer or extensometer?

Strain transducers, also called strain sensors, strain gauges or extensometers, are a special type of force sensor and are versatile, being suitable for both static and dynamic measurements. Strain transducers are used to measure deformations that have occurred due to forces acting on an existing body. The strain sensor is quick to install due to the simple screw-on design and can achieve high accuracies, despite the indirect measurement. After mounting and adjustment, the strain is transferred by a frictional connection from the solid element to the strain transducer or strain gauge. Since the transducer is screwed onto the component during use, after adjustment the unit has the characteristics of a force transducer. WIKA offer strain gauges with the following output signals: mV/V, 4 … 20 mA, CANopen, CAN SAE J1939.

For which applications is a strain transducer used?

The use of strain transducers is particularly suitable for existing systems. In an existing silo or tank, the retrofitting of bending or shear beams for force measurement can be very costly. The strain transducer, on the other hand, is quickly integrated into the application and is a cost-effective alternative. WIKA strain gauges have a high shock and vibration resistance as well as a good long-term stability. Read more about the applications of strain transducers / extensometers in our blog post “Practical applications of strain transducers”.

Possible areas of application:

  • Injection moulding machines
  • Pressing, punching, embossing machinery
  • Steel constructions and vessel supports
  • Wind power plants
  • Construction machinery

From what strain can a strain transducer be used?

The strain transducer, strain sensor or extensometer can be used from a strain or compression from 0 … 200 µε up to a max. of 0 … 1,000 µε. The extensometer achieves an overall accuracy of 2 % of the full scale value. For the measurement, the force transducer is fixed to the component using bolts in the area where the corresponding strain occurs.

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Need measuring instruments calibrated?

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FAQ
FAQ

What defines the case ingress protection in accordance with DIN EN 60529?

The case ingress protection in accordance with DIN EN 60529 indicates to what extent the force transducer is protected against moisture and dust and also the penetration of foreign bodies.

What is a relative reversibility error (hysteresis)?

A relative reversibility error is the difference between the output signals of an increasing and decreasing series at the same force, F, relative to the output signal less the zero signal with increasing force, in the installed condition.