Glossary · Sensors and measurement
Force sensor
Also known as: Force transducer
German: Kraftsensor
In measurement technology, a force sensor is a sensor that converts a mechanical force into an electrical signal, typically using strain gauges, piezoelectric elements or other elastic deformation principles.
- Sensors
In one sentence
A force sensor converts a mechanical force into an electrical signal, typically with strain gauges or piezoelectric elements.
Example
A piezoelectric force sensor in a press-fit station records the force curve of each bearing insertion so that faulty joints can be rejected.
How it applies
- Engineering: Strain-gauge force sensors suit static and quasi-static forces; piezoelectric sensors suit dynamic forces but drift for static measurements. Force must be introduced as intended, without side loads or bending moments, or the reading is distorted.
- Commissioning: Zero the sensor in the unloaded state and check the scaling with a known force.
- Operation: Force monitoring is used in pressing, joining and assembly processes for quality control and for detecting overload.
- Documentation: Document the measuring range, overload limit and mounting requirements. Maintenance staff must know that incorrect mounting after replacement falsifies the readings without an error message.
Force sensor vs. load cell
A Load cell is a force sensor designed and calibrated for weighing. Force sensor is the broader term that includes sensors for dynamic forces, tension and compression in machines.