1. Althen Sensors
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  5. ALW Load washer
  • ALW Load washer

ALW Load washer

Compact stainless steel load washers for axial force measurement up to 20,000 lbf – ideal for preload control, bolted joints, and limited-space integration.

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Key features

  • Capacity from 5 lbf up to 20,000 lbf
  • Stainless steel construction with IP64 rating
  • Ultra-flat, compact design for integration into joints
  • ±0.5% full-scale non-linearity
  • Temperature compensated from -15 to +71 °C
  • Multiple sizes and screw diameters available
  • 5-point compression calibration included

About the ALW Load washer

The ALW Series Load Washers are strain gauge-based stainless steel force sensors designed for compression measurements. They offer a wide range of capacities, from 5 to 20,000 lbf, and are engineered for easy integration in bolt assemblies and structural joints. Non-linearity is better than ±0.5% FS, ensuring precision in critical fastening applications.

Usage conditions

Available in four model series (ALW1 to ALW4), these washers differ in outer/inner diameter and height to match various screw sizes. Each version comes with a shielded 4-conductor cable, either 0.086” or 0.126” in diameter, encased in a stainless steel strain relief spring for protection. Standard cable lengths are 3, 5, and 10 ft. Connectors (DB9 Male/Female) or raw wire options are available.

Applications

  • Preload force monitoring in bolted assemblies
  • Load control in structural connections
  • Assembly verification in production lines
  • Force distribution analysis in mechanical setups
  • Integration into limited-space measurement systems

Advantages of choosing this product

The ALW Series offers versatility, durability, and precision in a compact form factor. Its stainless steel build, broad capacity range, and high accuracy make it suitable for demanding industrial, aerospace, and automotive applications. Custom pinouts and cable lengths are available on request.

Additional key features

  • Safe overload: 150% of rated output
  • Output range: 0.2 to 2.0 mV/V depending on capacity
  • Low hysteresis and excellent repeatability
  • Operating range: -15 to +80 °C
  • 5-point compression calibration standard
  • Deflection: 0.002” (0.05 mm) across all models

Do you need this sensor for your next project?

Request a no-obligation quote or send us your contact details for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our sales engineers will then contact you within a maximum of 1 to 2 working days.

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Not exactly what you are looking for? We offer standard sensors, but can also help you with sensors adapted for you or a fully customised measurement solution. Contact us for advice or pricing.

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Technical Specifications

Specification Value
Capacity (lbf) 5 – 20K
Rated Output (RO) (mV/V) 0.2 (5lbf), 0.4 (10lbf), 1 (25lbf), 2 (50-20000lbf) nominal
Safe Overload (%) 150 of RO
Zero Balance (%) ±2 of RO
Excitation (VDC or VAC) 7 max.
Bridge Resistance 700 Ω nom.
Non-Linearity (%) ±0.5 of RO
Hysteresis (%) ±0.5 of RO

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Datasheet View product