1. Althen Sensors
  2. Sensors
  3. Force sensors
  4. Miniature force sensors
  5. ALW4 Hermetic load washer
  • ALW4 Hermetic load washer

ALW4 Hermetic load washer

Compact stainless steel load washer with high force capacity and hermetically sealed construction for demanding industrial environments.

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Key features

  • Force range up to 20,000 lbf
  • Fully laser welded stainless steel body
  • IP68 hermetically sealed construction
  • Excellent non-linearity ±0.5% FS
  • Wide operating temperature -20 to +80°C
  • 5-point compression calibration standard

About the ALW4 Hermetic load washer

The ALW4-1 Hermetic Load Washer delivers precise force measurements in compact environments. Designed with a stainless steel strain gauge and laser welded construction, it ensures optimal durability, even in harsh industrial conditions. With rated capacities from 1,000 to 20,000 lbf and non-linearity better than ±0.5% of full scale, it is built for performance.

Usage conditions

Thanks to its IP68 rating and compensated temperature range of -15°C to +71°C, the ALW4-1 load washer is ideal for both indoor and outdoor industrial applications. Its 8-pin M12 male connector and robust build make it suitable for embedded use in machinery and structural components.

Possible applications

  • Preload control in bolted joints
  • Structural health monitoring
  • Industrial press force measurement
  • OEM integrations in robotics and machinery
  • Load monitoring in rotating equipment

Advantages of choosing this product

Choosing the ALW4-1 means opting for a sensor that combines rugged design with precise force measurement. Its hermetically sealed construction guarantees long-term performance with minimal maintenance, while its compact format supports space-constrained installations.

Other important features

  • Multiple screw sizes from 1/8” to 1 ½”
  • Operating range: -20 to +80°C
  • Optional digital, voltage, or current loop outputs
  • Minimal deflection (0.05 mm)
  • Nominal bridge resistance: 700 Ω
  • Available with fast delivery options

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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Talk to our experts

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) 1K, 2K, 5K, 7.5K, 10K, 20K
Rated Output (RO) (mV/V) 2 nominal
Safe Overload (%) 150 of RO
Zero Balance (%) ±5 of RO
Excitation (VDC or VAC) (V) 5 (recommended), 10 max.
Bridge Resistance 700 Ω nom.
Non-Linearity (%) ±0.5 of RO
Hysteresis (%) ±0.5 of RO
Non-Repeatability (%) ±0.1 of RO

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Need something else?

ALW Load washer

ALW Load washer

  • Up to 20,000 lbf in ultra-compact washer format
  • ±0.5% FS non-linearity
  • Compatible with DB9 or raw cable configurations
Datasheet View product