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Pancake (low profile) force sensors
Pancake (low-profile) force sensors are specifically designed for precise force measurement in space-limited environments. Their flat, compact form enables seamless integration in tight spaces, making them ideal for applications in automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. Our selection of pancake force sensors delivers both high precision and dependable performance, meeting the rigorous standards of industrial and research applications.
Reliable pancake force sensors for precision measurement
A primary benefit of pancake force sensors is their capability to measure both tension and compression forces with precision, making them highly versatile for applications like load testing, material testing, and quality control. Built with a durable design, these sensors deliver reliable, accurate measurements even in demanding conditions. Whether you're monitoring forces in machinery or conducting precise load assessments, our selection of pancake force sensors offers the ideal solution to meet your specific measurement requirements.
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Efficient designPancake force sensors feature a flat, low-profile form that integrates easily into tight spaces, making them perfect for applications with limited installation room without sacrificing performance.
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Tension and compression versatilityDesigned to handle both force types, these sensors are highly versatile for applications like load testing, material analysis, and quality control.
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Durability and precisionWith robust construction, pancake force sensors provide reliable, accurate measurements over time, even under tough conditions, ensuring dependable performance in industrial and research environments.
Considerations for selecting pancake (low profile) force sensors
When choosing pancake (low profile) force sensors for your application, several important factors should be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and compatibility:
- Determine load capacity: Choose a sensor that accurately handles the maximum forces expected, preventing overload and ensuring reliable measurements.
- Check measurement range: Confirm the sensor’s range covers both tension and compression forces required by your application.
- Select compatible output type: Ensure the sensor’s output signal (analog, current, or digital) aligns with your control systems for smooth integration.
- Consider environmental suitability: Select a sensor built to endure your environment’s conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and dust exposure.
- Verify dimensions and mounting needs: Make sure the sensor’s size and mounting requirements match your installation space.
- Focus on durability: For frequent use, opt for a sensor with proven long-term reliability.
- Evaluate calibration needs: Determine if calibration will be necessary during installation or maintenance to maintain accuracy.
Contact us today to explore our pancake force sensors and discover the perfect solution tailored to your measurement requirements.
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Frequently asked questions about Pancake force sensors
Answers to the most important technical questions
Are low profile load cells suitable for applications with limited installation space?
Yes. Low profile load cells are well suited to applications where installation space is limited. Their flat, compact design allows them to be integrated into tight spaces while still providing accurate tension and compression force measurement.
Typical applications include test benches, mechanical engineering, material testing, load testing and quality assurance.
When selecting the appropriate version, the measuring range, overall height, mounting requirements and environmental conditions should all be considered in relation to the available installation space.
What accuracy can low profile load cells achieve?
The accuracy of low profile load cells depends on the model and measuring range. At lower force ranges, for example with the ALF306 starting at 50 N, non-linearity and hysteresis typically range, depending on the measuring range, from ±0.3/±0.2% RL to ±0.5/±0.3% RL.
At higher force ranges, the ALF318 is available up to 500 kN and achieves a linearity error of ±0.1% of full scale, hysteresis of ±0.1% of full scale and repeatability of ±0.02% of full scale.
This makes low profile load cells suitable for both precise measurement of small forces and reliable tension and compression force measurement at high loads."
What is the height of a low profile load cell?
The overall height of a low profile load cell depends on the model and measuring range. Ultra-low-profile versions such as the ALF306 are only 8 mm high, making them suitable for applications with very limited installation space.
Other examples include the ALF302 with a maximum overall height of 16 mm, the ALF225 at up to 22 mm, and the ALF252 with dimensions of Ø99 × 27 mm. Larger models such as the ALF318 have a greater overall height depending on their size and rated capacity.
For correct selection, the relevant data sheet should be checked together with the measuring range, force introduction and available installation space.
For accurate dimensioning, the relevant data sheet should always be checked together with the measuring range, force application, and available installation space.