Wireless load sensors and load cell telemetry.

Two new high-performance load sensor products from Strainsert Inc., based on license-free, 2.4GHz telemetry with a working range up to 800 metres, will facilitate straightforward and cost-effective installation for single- or multi-sensor use over long distances, problematic installations and otherwise challenging load measurement tasks. Especially compelling as an alternative for system set-ups where long and noise-prone cable runs in traditional wired systems prove complex and expensive, the new wireless load sensors and load cell telemetry systems are available exclusively in Britain from Ixthus Instrumentation.

The new products include wireless load pins with integrated wireless transmitters, configured as standard or custom designed clevis pins or shackle bolts for single or multiple sensor systems. Complementary to these wireless-integrated sensors, the newly available T24 series wireless load cell telemetry system comprises modular transmitters, base stations and accessories with the adaptability for conversion of existing wired Strainsert sensors with strain, current or voltage output - or for the development of completely new wireless system designs. With IP67 rated enclosures and built for the harshest conditions for weighing and load monitoring tasks in aerospace, industrial, construction, mobile machinery and more, the range is supported with comprehensive software tools for straightforward configuration and monitoring.

Strainsert’s T24 wireless transmitter modules are available in two module sizes with a choice of batteries – a compact AA cell version or for longer battery life a larger sized D cell module. The electrical and range performance specifications for both modules are similar. The 4-wire bridge measurement and 4.5 to 5.25 VDC excitation characteristics suit Strainsert sensor requirements. The modular system offers a choice of four USB powered base stations that are used for interfacing with PCs or PLCs through a choice of USB, RS232 or RS485 ports for configuration and control. They work in concert with the T24 transmitter modules, facilitating the data capture through the T24 software toolkit which is included with the wireless systems. Further system accessories include Modbus Gateway and ASCII serial interfaces, analogue and relay output modules and wireless range extenders for up to 1600 metres. Also included are wireless handheld receivers and LED display modules.

The wireless load pin has all the specification characteristics and interfacing possibilities offered by the T24 telemetry systems with the potential advantage found in its integrated load sensor component and transmitter design that can further aid installation planning and commissioning.

@IxthusInst @mepaxIntPR #strainsert #PAuto 

Load cells for agricultural applications.

VPG Transducers' Agribar™ 5330 series load cell is specially designed for use in challenging load measurement and control applications on mobile agricultural machinery and farm mixing, spreading and dispensing equipment. Its single-ended bending beam design is especially robust, load rated at 6150 Kg and a CANbus option is available that enables added operational analysis and increased efficiency for heavy-duty farm machinery applications.

The Agribar’s robust alloy steel housing has a dust and water tight IP67 rating (optionally IP69K) and is finished in a special electro-deposited organic coating for added corrosion and abrasion protection. Its robust design includes an impressive temperature tolerance and compensated range from 0 to +50 °C for high-accuracy temperature measurement in harsh conditions. With other load capacity options available on request, the Agribar is a compelling choice for OEMs and farm machinery manufacturers of feed and stationary mixers, manure spreaders, harvest trailers and grain carts as well as bins, tanks and other storage equipment.

These products receive full support from Variohm EuroSensor, the manufacturer’s distribution partner in Britain.

@Variohm #VPG_Transducers #Agriculture

Silo weighing system.

The recently launched  S-series by VPG Transducers and available in Britain through Variohm EuroSensor is a flexible and configurable load-cell based silo weighing system with optional temperature measurement. Featuring VPG’s 178 extensometer load cells, optional PT100 sensors and a choice of three display variants, including a remote PC monitoring version, the S-series allows users to utilise weight and temperature measurements to calculate accurate fluid density, fluid mass and actual volumetric levels in up to 24 silos. The flexible and configurable system is easily adapted for process measurement tasks across a diverse range of industries including cement and minerals production, water treatment plants, agricultural produce, and food & beverage bulk material storage.

Through its three display versions, the S-series features VPG Transducers’ model 178 strain gauge extensometer load cells that have pedigree of application success for weighing, level control, stress and fatigue monitoring across many industries. Its alloy steel and IP66 hermetically sealed construction combine with a generous overload capacity to ensure accurate and low uncertainty weight measurement. Each display version offers a fixed number of load cell measurements, optional relay interfaces and bus based communications. Optional PT100 temperature sensors for up to two temperature measurements per silo can also be specified.

The entry level ST1 features a panel mounted LCD display for up to 4 weight and temperature measurements per screen and up to 8 connected silos. ST1 system options include integration of up to 16 temperature measurements, up to 4 relay interface casings (16 relay outputs per casing) and a Modbus TCP/Ethernet IP connection. French and English language interfaces are included.
The ST3 system features an RGB display with resistive touch controls for up to 24 measurements per screen, set as 8 weighing measurements and 16 temperature measurements. As standard the ST3 includes a Modbus TCP interface and, through its powerful 32-bit x86 microprocessor, supports up to 24 silo weight measurements plus 48 temperature measurements in addition to a maximum of 4 relay interface casings (16 relay outputs per casing) and Ethernet IP connections. Language interfacing for English, French and Spanish is included

For users who require remote monitoring, the S-Box silo weighing system allows a wide choice of weight and temperature measurements to be displayed on desktop browsers or portable devices. An embedded web server allows the user to access measurements from any computer connected on the same network and with multi-language (English, French, German, and Spanish) capability, the system will suit global silo measurement markets. A powerful 32-bit x86 microprocessor supports up to 24 silo weight measurements, 48 temperature measurements, as well as up to 4 relay interface casings (16 relay outputs per casing) and Ethernet IP connections.

 #PAuto @Variohm @mepaxIntPR

Simplifying bridge sensor measurements.

Software provides powerful signal conditioning capabilities for precise conversion of bridge inputs to process current or voltage control signals

Acromag’s new TT351 load cell and strain gauge signal conditioners use software to quickly select from a wide variety of sensor measurement options. A USB port simplifies setup on a Windows PC or Android mobile device with Acromag’s AgilityTM app. Software menus help users set the sensor type, bridge configuration, excitation source, filtering level, and input/output ranges. Advanced capabilities let users fine tune scaling of I/O signals, adjust excitation levels, and calibrate the bridge.

Universal output supports six ranges including 4-20mA, 0-10V and ±10V. Flexible power accepts a 9-32V DC supply at the terminals and a rail power bus option can supply multiple units from a single connection or establish redundant power. The narrow 17.5mm housing mounts easily on a DIN rail. Hazardous location approvals, high noise immunity, and a -40 to 70°C operating range make these transmitters ideal for use in harsh environments.

“These software-configured bridge sensor transmitters offer capabilities not possible with DIP switches or pot adjustments for a broad range of load cell, strain gauge, weight and force measurements,” stresses Robert Greenfield, Acromag’s Business Development Manager.

The TT351 input circuit allows true 6-wire bridge measurement and includes an adjustable bridge excitation supply (4 to 11V DC) with a remote sense feature. Sense wires ensure the programmed excitation voltage is applied at the sensor and enable lead-wire compensation. The differential input performs true ratiometric conversions for extremely stable measurements that remain accurate over time and temperature. Plus, lead break detection is inherent in the device. Three-way isolation between input, output and power increases safety and noise immunity.

Advanced signal processing capabilities, variable range input, and convenient USB programming make this instrument a very versatile strain/load measurement device. A single model can process strain gage, load cell, and millivolt input signals from 1-10mV/V. Initial bridge offsets or forces can be automatically removed with null compensation, tare, and zero balance bridge functions. An internal half-bridge can perform half and quarter bridge completion with precision resistor pairs or bias a floating millivolt input signal. A custom input signal linerarizer function supports up to 25 user defined signal breakpoints. Flexible scaling is independently adjustable on the input and output. To suppress noise effects, users can set a variable digital input filter level or average a number of samples. Shunt calibration tools with a simulation calculator enables rescaling of the transmitter’s indicated strain by modifying software gain and/or the instrument gauge factor. And to test or verify operation, a software diagnostics screen will poll the unit and display measured and computed values.

#PAuto @Acromag

Light on for SOLAS!*

The three months grace period on the amended Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Regulations has now expired, and exporters are now required to verify the weight of packed shipping containers. Sensor Technology is able to provide a simple, retrofittable solution for SOLAS compliance, and the company has already worked with a number of exporters who admitted to being “caught out” by the implementation of the legislation.

Tony Ingham

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) officially adopted the new SOLAS regulations n November 2014, and the legislation was fully implemented in July 2016, with a three month grace period to ease exporters through the changeover and prevent supply chain disruption or port congestion. Sensor Technology managing director Tony Ingham comments: “The intention of the SOLAS legislation is to reduce the number of accidents caused globally by containers whose weights have been erroneously declared. But many of the businesses we have spoken to have been unsure about how to implement the regulations, and worried how the legislation will be enforced.”

Under the legislation verification of the packed containers’ weight is a condition for vessel loading. Two methods of verification are acceptable: either weighing the loaded container or weighing the cargo and then adding the tare weight of the container.

“Cost of implementation has also been a concern, but Sensor Technology’s LoadSense technology provides a simple and cost-effective solution that meets the requirements of the legislation and provides a number of additional functions that will be of benefit to shipping operators,” says Ingham.

Easily incorporated within the crane hook, LoadSense allows weighing processes to be fully integrated with handling operations. All live data is captured in real time and can be transferred to a database, stored, totalised and analysed. An on-board single chip computer records, analyses and archives readings, while wireless communication capability can transfer data in real time to a host computer.

LoadSense employs internal batteries, which make its operation completely autonomous.
The LoadSense package includes the intelligent load sensor itself, plus a hand-held receiver display. The load sensor is based on proven strain gauge technology, and is calibrated as standard in the range from 1 to 20 tonnes, with other ranges up to 50 tonnes available soon.

“Safety legislation is always rigorously enforced, so exporters would be well advised to look at the SOLAS requirements very seriously,” advises Ingham. “The requirements are demanding, but they don’t have to be difficult. Our message to the industry is that we have simple solutions that meet the SOLAS requirements, which are highly cost-effective and easy to implement, and which can provide a number of features that can help exporters to further streamline their operations.”

* The word "solas" is the Irish word for "light".

@sensortech #Manufacturing #Marine

Compact load cells.

The Burster 8427 series tension and compression load cell offers nine measuring ranges from 0 … 20 N to 0 … 10 kN and is available with a choice of fixing options for maximum application flexibility from Ixthus.. Its rapid response to fast force measurement events is especially suited to high-throughput automation tasks such as robot assembly where its compact size allows easy integration for multi-tool systems.

This load cell measures tension or compression force between axially mounted metric internal threads at either end of its cylindrical housing which includes a hexagonal flange for spanner mounting.  With a full-bridge strain gauge membrane type sensor element the compact unit has a welded high-strength stainless steel construction for maximum durability and IP68 class protection rating. Optionally available threaded inserts may be used or other adapter parts such as eye brackets for cable/chain mounting or load pins for direct axial measurement. These adapter options combine with a good price/performance ratio to expand the application range across laboratory, industrial or safety related load measurement tasks.

The sensor electronics requires stable excitation with a rated value of approx. 1.2 mV/V with non-linearity of 0.5% over a -30 ... +80 °C operating temperature range. Excitation is 5V DC and electrical interfacing is made easy with a Mini PG screw connection that is radially fed from the housing via a shielded PTFE cable that is drag chain qualified. A standard calibration is available or the unit can be supplied with burster’s TEDS which allows plug & play connection with sensor specific data stored in the sensor for automatic configuration for faster set up. As with all burster sensors, DAkkS and factory calibration certification is available on request.

The compact load cell measures just 30 mm in diameter for the smallest load range with a nominal housing length of only 16 mm. For the 10 KN range diameter is 50 mm and length is 32 mm. The sensors feature internal threads (M4 or M10 respectively) for mounting with an external thread accessory available.

The 8427 is part of a wide range of load, force, torque and displacement sensors designed and manufactured by burster, which are supplied and fully supported by Ixthus Instrumentation. The range also includes process control instruments, amplifiers, panel meters and other instrumentation components that allow complete system solutions from a single source.

@IxthusInst #PAuto @burstermeasure

Loadcells for harsh but hygenic applications.

The new Z6R Bending Beam Load Cell now available from HBM, has been specifically developed for use in harsh environments and applications with high requirements for hygiene.

Designed for maximum capacities ranging from 20 to 200 KG and featuring an accuracy class of C3, the Z6R is particularly suitable for use in food processing, production of pharmaceuticals or packaging of building materials.

Manufactured in stainless steel, the robust enclosure can withstand mechanical stress and is not affected by dirt, humidity or aggressive environments with acids and alkalis. Featuring an innovative design, without any gaps or edges, the Z6R is easy to clean and can therefore help to reduce costly downtime. Furthermore, the new Z6R is also ingress protected to IP68, with IP69K as an option for added protection. In addition, as with most load cells from HBM, the Z6R is also suitable for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (IECEx: Zone 1 + 21, Zone 2 + 21).

Mechanically and electrically compatible with the market leading Z6 load cell from HBM, which has been successfully incorporated into various projects throughout the world, integration with existing systems or load cell replacement is quick and simple. This, combined with a long service life, puts the Z6R bending load cell at the top of its game.

 @HBMmeasurement #PAuto

Bending beam load cell.

HBM’s new Z6R bending beam load cell has been designed for maximum capacities ranging from 20 to 200 kg. It is outstanding for its extremely robust enclosure, dirt-repellent design, and compatibility with the Z6 load cell. Typical fields of application can be found in the packaging or food-processing industries.

The robust enclosure withstands mechanical stress and is not affected by dirt, humidity, and aggressive media. Owing to its innovative design, without any gaps or edges, the Z6R load cell is easy to clean. Scale manufacturers and system operators, thus, benefit from precise weighing results up to accuracy class C3, even in harsh environments.

The Z6R is mechanically and electrically compatible with the Z6 load cell that was also developed by HBM and has been used in hundreds of thousands of projects throughout the world. Integration with existing systems or replacement of the load cell is easy. Downtime is reduced and production can be made more efficient owing to the Z6R load cell’s compatibility and long service life.

@HBMmeasurement #PAuto 

Lift and platform weighing sensors.

As part of its comprehensive range of load cells, strain gauges and force sensors, ZEMIC Europe offers complete weighing kits for straightforward installation on elevators and weighing platforms where safety and overload protection, added passenger comfort and lift availability are critical factors. The economically priced kits are available in Britain from Variohm EuroSensor and are designed for cabin, under-spring and into-spring installation. They include durable load cells, wiring, connection box, and a pre-calibrated weighing indicator with relay outputs.

By combining these separate ZEMIC components as a complete and ready to install kit, user advantages include guaranteed system accuracy and reliability through factory production. This also contributes to extremely keen pricing for the elevator kits which start from around £200.00.

For the cabin installation version, four 70 mm diameter load cells provide an accuracy class of 0.5% and a total load capacity of 4000 kg. With a temperature compensated working range of -30 to +50 ⁰C plus a short time overload of 300%, the load cell performance will suit a wide range of elevator car and user-customised platform weighing applications. Relay outputs are pre-set for 90% of the full load capacity without stopping or 110% (alternatively 110% + 75kg) overload. A third relay indicates a >15 kg load for unaccompanied light goods or child passenger availability. Furthermore there is an energy saving potential where motor power regulation can be included in-line with actual measured load.

Further specifications for the compression load cells include full Wheatstone bridge circuitry encapsulated in durable aluminium housings with IP65 humidity protection. With integrated rubber pillows for dynamic overload protection, their round shape does not depend the angle of the applied load - compensating for parasitic non-axial force effects.

The ‘plug-and-play’ cabin weighing kit includes four 1.6 m long cables terminated in a sturdy junction box with a pluggable connector to each load cell and a separate 5 m long cable connecting to a pre-configured Top-Sensors EWS-1 weighing indicator.

The under-springs and into-springs versions have a similar kit construction with the appropriate number of load cells to suit the application - in line with elevator or platform load requirements. Details the complete range including full specifications, load cell dimensions, wiring etc. are available, as individual datasheets or as a combined brochure covering all three installation types, from Variohm EuroSensor who provide complete technical support across the entire ZEMIC range.

@Variohm  #PAuto 

Ultra-Fast USB load cell interface.

DSCUSB-FQ Fast USB Load Cell Interface from Applied Measurements, promises high speed readings of 4800 samples per second.

The DSCUSB-FQ is an ultra-fast USB load cell interface that converts a strain gauge transducer signal to a digital USB serial output at an amazing 4800 samples per second!  Thanks to its 13 bit noise free resolution the DSCUSB-FQ promises high stability with 1 part in 8000 resolution.  Making the DSCUSB-FQ fast USB load cell interface the ultimate for high speed, dynamic applications.

The powerful toolkit software is FREE to download and connects to your DSCUSB-FQ in seconds.  The toolkit can configure, calibrate, log data and review.  It can capture and save up to 30 minutes of data at 4800 Hz which can then be saved to a CSV file for further analysis.  The logging software can provide trend charts of real-time data, FFT frequency analysis and offers a simple oscilloscope to help visual any patterns in the data.  Two point or automatic system calibrations can also be achieved in your chosen engineering units and it also allows you to select the actual engineering units that the module was calibrated in for ease of use.

As the DSCUSB-FQ fast USB load cell interface plugs directly into the USB port of your computer it makes installation quick and easy into your application.  What’s more, it needs no additional cables as it gets all its power from the USB port.  The unit comes housed in a robust plastic case rated to IP50 making it suitable for all indoor applications.

@AppMeas #Pauto

Load cell digitizer.

The compact DSC-USB interface, from Applied Measurements, is designed to convert strain gauge transducer signal into a digital output direct to the PC via the USB port. The simple ‘plug and play’ direct connection to the PC means the data can be viewed immediately on screen and the results can be logged to a CSV file for further manipulation later in any spreadsheet program, without the need for amplifiers, filters and mulitmeters.

The DSC-USB interface delivers high performance and high accuracy readings direct to the PC with no need for additional power supplies as the device is powered by the USB port.

It is ideal as a 1 to 1 interface, it can connect with multiple sensors with the use of a suitable hub, please speak to our sales team. An optional DTEMP digital temperature sensor module is available to enable an advance 5-point temperature compensation of measurements.

The DSC-USB is perfect for all strain gauge bridge based sensors including load, weight, force, torque and pressure & displacement. Once the data has been received by the PC the FREE downloadable DSC-USB Toolkit software enables configuration, calibration and logging capabilities.

For additional channels of data logging the free downloadable DSCLog24 software is available which enables up to 24 channels of data monitoring and logging.

• APPLICATION:  This unit and the Applied Measurement's DBBSM S-Beam Load cell are used in  an application to Measures Cable Tension of Light Aircraft for Calmet Laboratory Services.

Accurate S-Beam Load Cell Measures Cable Tension of Light Aircraft

 #Pauto @AppMeas

Load cell for harsh conditions.

The new DBBSUB s-beam load cell from Applied Measurements, is guaranteed to measure tension and compression in continuous submersion in potable water to depths of up to 10 metres / 1 bar. Its IP68 long-term immersion sealing and rugged stainless steel body makes it is ideal to use in many submersible applications.

This load cell has a glass-to-metal seal construction providing a complete hermetic sealing. This hermetic sealing guarantees its safe performance in highly aggressive environments whilst still maintaining its high ±0.02 % accuracy.

Robert Davies, Applied Measurements’ Production Director says, “The DBBSUB S-beam permanently submersible load cell is the perfect choice for tension and compression loading in many underwater, offshore and harsh industrial environments.”

Applied Measurements’ specially designed rod end bearings and fixtures deliver optimum accuracy of the load cell by directing the tensile force through the centre of the load cell which reduces any unrelated forces.

Their wide range of mounting bases and fixtures make installation into your application fast and easy, without the worry of lengthy time consuming delays and expensive setup costs.

@AppMeas #PAuto 

Compact, robust, compression load cells.

Flintec’s RC3 compression load cell has been re-developed, providing customers with a modern alternative. The RC3 and RC3D are compact, robust, compression load cells manufactured from high-grade stainless steel and hermetically sealed for reliable performance in the harshest environments.

With capacities ranging from 7.5 – 300T the RC3 is traditionally used in high capacity scales for the static weighing of trucks or railroad vehicles, as well as silo weighing systems.

The RC3D supplements the RC3, by providing a more cost-effective solution to customer applications within the 30 – 50T capacity range.

New electronics allow the RC3D to be fitted as part of a single link (daisy chain) system, eliminating the need for expensive junction boxes. With RS485, M12, connectors, this new generation load cell is quick and easy to set up and benefits from extensive diagnostic capabilities to identify faults. With improved corner adjustment and system calibration, the RC3D allows for a single load cell to be replaced without compromising the entire weighing system.

Other features include an IP69K hermetic seal rating and integrated surge protection in accordance with EN61000-4-5. Complementing the new RC3D, and the already established RC3 is a wide range of mounting hardware and electronics, allowing customers to create a complete weighing system for any application.

@Flintec #PAuto @InPressPR

Load cells for weighing.

A leading multi head weighing machine manufacturer in Hampshire (GB) has specified PW12C load cells from HBM – market leader in the field of Weighing Technology for its latest range of checkweighers.

Designed to accurately weigh a wide range of rigid packs, from 10g to 60kg, in the food and packaging markets, the latest range of sophisticated weighing machinery, which incorporates the PW12C load cell, offers a simple and reliable solution, even at very fast speeds.

Ideal for general weighing tasks with high maximum capacities, the PW12C features a maximum platform size of 800 x 800 mm and features a 50kg to 750kg maximum capacity.

Also suitable for use in applications where speed and accuracy are crucial factors, the PW12C is available in Atex Zone 1/21 that includes FM-approval or as an Atex Zone 1/22 version. Offering a choice of accuracy class C3 or C3MR, PW12C load cells are available with 1.5, 3, 6 and 12m cables, for increased flexibility and simplified installation.

Manufactured in stainless steel, the PW12C load cell has an IP67 degree of protection rating, meaning that the range is dustproof, protected against low-pressure water jets, and can be immersed in water up to 1 m, for up to 30 minutes.

 @HBMmeasurement #PAuto 

Loadcell Indicator.

The INT4-L 6-digit LED display from Applied Measurements,  is the latest version of the INT2-L featuring improved load cell and process filtering. It is compatible with any strain gauge based transducer. The INT4-L meter displays physical variables, such as weight, load, force and torque, providing you with a 10V regulated excitation supply. The INT4 series is directly compatible with the INT2 series as it features the same front panel designs, dimensions and connections for easy integration.

The INT4-L is capable of powering up to four 350 ohm loadcells in 4 wire or 6 wire installations. Its 10 point user configurable linearisation means improved accuracy is guaranteed, which is a standard feature on the INT4-L indicator.

The INT4-L is easy to configure with its new single layer menu for a simpler setup. The readout is provided by a 6-digit LED display (also configurable with 3, 4 or 5 digits if preferred) coupled with an ultra-high resolution 20-bit A/D converter and highly stable strain gauge bridge excitation source which provides superb resolution and stability in any application. The front panel has a 7 segment window for displaying the measurement allowing decimal point and minus sign characters to be included and has 4 alarm annunciators to show the status of each alarm relay.

Peak and valley memories allow you to view the maximum and minimum recorded measurements. Also, the meter can give alarm outputs, scaled and isolated analogue output and isolated serial data retransmission, when fitted with option boards.

A lockout switch on the rear of the meter saves your configuration settings in non-volatile memory, which has a 10 year storage period. When the lockout switch is set to ON, your settings cannot be accidentally altered.

#PAuto @AppMeas

Handling vegetable products.

The Netherlands based agricultural machinery specialist Van Hees manufacturers its automated BOXFILR system for handling vegetable produce such as potatoes, carrots and onions. For farm warehouse use at harvest time and as a year-round means for supporting distribution, storage and transportation, the system includes conveyor delivery, filling, emptying and crate stacking operations with very high efficiency thanks to several modules that perform specific tasks. These modules are often adapted to suit the precise needs of the customer and for BOXFILR users that require weight information for their produce, Van Hees uses ZEMIC for load cells and weight information transmitters.

Central to the BOXFILR system is its ‘Bunker Filler’, produced as a single or much higher-throughput double module. This machine can fill a crate in a matter of seconds with a throughput of up 100 tons per hour. With in-situ weighing added to the machine, this removes a downstream procedure – optimising operation and reducing time & cost. ZEMIC, (represented in Britain by Variohm EuroSensor*), specify its BM8H series shear beam load cell which is designed for use in hopper, platform and pallet scale applications. The IP68 rated load cell boasts an OIML R60 C3 accuracy class in six selectable capacity options from 500 kg to 5t. The durable design includes a hermetically sealed stainless steel case.

To further automate the weighing process on the BOXFILR, a ZEMIC Top-Sensors T1 weight transmitter is connected to the BM8H load cell and the produce weight information sent to the main control unit. The DIN rail mounted transmitter includes a 7-segment display and is available with a wide choice of output configurations including analogue (voltage and current) as well as USB and fieldbus protocols for Profibus DP, Ethernet/Modbus TCP/IP, CANopen and Profinet. An RS485 serial port provides connection for PC/PLC and 3 outputs/2 inputs may be used for machine interaction.

*Variohm EuroSensor supports the full ZEMIC range with comprehensive technical support and service with stock delivery available for standard load cells as well as a custom design/modification capability and integration with other Variohm sensor technologies.

@ZemicEurope #PAuto #Food @Variohm 

Approval for load cells.

ZEMIC’s BM24R ring torsion load cell, available exclusively in Britain through Variohm EuroSensor, has been awarded ATEX and IECEx approval across its full load range from 60 kg to 60t.

The stainless steel low-profile load cell is hermetically sealed and has an IP68 rating and integrated static overload protection up to 13t. The optional ATEX and IECEx approvals join OIML approval for the BM24R making the load cell suitable for legal-for-trade weighing and load calibration applications in explosive environments where flammable substances are present or where flammable dusts occur through materials processing. The compact load cell is available in seven sizes spanning 63 mm to 140 mm nominal diameter and heights from 10 mm to 69 mm.

The BM24R is particularly suited to high hygiene and food industry weighing applications where washdown is required and harsh environments prevail but is also well proven in process control, bulk handing, hoppers, silos and belt scale weighing. Along with other mounting accessories, a tank mount kit is available up to a 13t working range. Variohm EuroSensor provides comprehensive technical support for the BM24R and all other ZEMIC load cells.

@Variohm #PAuto #Ex @ZemicEurope

Subminiature load cells for delicate applications.

Burster’s 8416 and 8417 series tension and compression load cells are aimed at force measurement in space restricted assemblies or where discreet and minimal weight installation is important. Now available in lower full-range measurement options to 0 - 20 N, these miniature stainless steel sensors are available as the disc type 8416 series or the dual threaded 8417 series for simple screw mounting.

With sales and complete technical support from Ixthus Instrumentation, Burster’s British distribution partner, these load cells are well proven in weighing and force measurement applications in small machines, control equipment and portable test instruments. Both models include an embedded full bridge strain gauge design with a short nominal measurement distance maintaining very high rigidity and ensuring durability. The lower measurement range options include 0 to 50 N and 0 to 100 N on both models with the 8416 benefitting from a 0 to 20 N range.

The 8416 is designed for compression load whilst the 8417 can be used for both compression and tension with its simple dual thread design especially useful for Bowden cable and pull-wire use. Both models have drag chain qualified cable connection with integral strain relief for secure connection to the sensor body. Connector options to directly suit Burster’s load and displacement monitoring and evaluation equipment is also available as well as special cable lengths, standardisation of the nominal value or increased temperature compensated range. In particular the 8417 is available with customisation possibilities for different sized screw threads and axial cable connections through the thread axis. All sensors are supplied with a test certificate with optional DKD calibration.

@IxthusInst #PAuto #Burster

Software toolkit facilitates complex load monitoring.

Mantracourt has launched a Software Toolkit to accompany its world-renowned LCA20 load cell and strain gauge amplifier, a flexible digital signal conditioning amplifier for single or multiple load monitoring. The new software toolkit enhances the capabilities of the LCA20, enabling easier set up and more advanced control and reporting functions.

The PC based software toolkit is icon driven, making it intuitive and easy to use. Access to the LCA20 is via a simple connector. The LCA toolkit enables configuration and calibration of load cell inputs using up to nine point linearisation. It also allows for the setting of load cell filtering characteristics, and digital input functionality, the configuration of the display and generated output values such as the peak, trough, gross and net. The toolkit also includes functions such as system zero and zero tracking. An equally wide range of functionality is applied to the reporting aspects of the toolkit.

"We work closely with customers all over the world," said Kelly Voysey, Marketing Manager at Mantracourt. "The design of the software toolkit for the LCA20 has been driven by our ambition to provide the very best user experience for our instrumentation products. In this respect, the software toolkit enables operators to set up and undertake the most complex and critical of load monitoring applications, saving valuable time in configuration and ensuring the reliability and the quality of the reported data."

The software tool kit allows a number of output and reporting functions to be configured. For the relay outputs, parameters such as in-flight compensation, hysteresis, latching and inversion are available. For the analogue outputs, the toolkit provides for scaling, gross and net values and error compensation. All collected data can be presented in configurable graph formats and logged to a file for exporting. The data can also be used to trigger alarms.

Mantracourt’s LCA20 software toolkit is available free of charge.

E-Commerce site for load cells!

Load cell manufacturer LCM Systems has launched a new online ordering facility at its website – LCMSystems.com. Customers looking for load cells and associated instrumentation will find that not only does LCM Systems have one of the most comprehensive ranges available, but now many of its most popular load cells and indicators are available to buy online.

Load cell ranges such as the CDIT compression load cells, the RILL Load Link series, the best selling and versatile DCE tension/compression series and the aluminium alloy S-Type load cells can all be purchased at the click of a button. In addition, LCM Systems’ renowned TELSHACK-B load shackles can also be ordered online. All load cells are supplied with a UKAS traceable calibration certificate and can also be paired with appropriate hand-held indicators. Most products are available ex-stock, as well as with free British delivery (usually within 48 hours). For customers ordering from overseas, courier prices will be displayed. 

Customer details and payment are certified secure using Sage Pay and prices can be displayed in €, £ or $, with all transactions shown and billed in the chosen currency. All major credit cards and PayPal can be used - with no surcharge. And to make ordering online even more attractive, LCM Systems is offering a 5% discount off list price for all customers.