Guide to Force Measurement Devices

Force measurement devices evaluate the force ­– the applied strength or energy of two objects – in multiple settings. There are a variety of settings in which you’d need to measure force, and you must pick the right device for your needs. The first step is learning about the different types of force measurement devices and the differences between them.

The many different types of devices and models to consider when choosing a force measurement device. First, it’s important to understand the types of testing and the devices.

At Johnson Scale, we carry many models of force measurement devices, and we know that some differences between devices seem small or inconsequential. However, part of our philosophy is that we make sure to find the right fit for you. We want you to do your most accurate and efficient work.

This guide goes over the different types of force-measurement testing and the common devices to perform those tests.

Types of Force Measurement Testing

Load: Test machine stops at specified load limit.

Distance: Test machine stops at a specified distance.

Break: Break limit tests are useful for a wide variety of destructive applications, including peel testing, wire crimp pull-off testing, tensile and compression testing, and many others. The test will terminate once the test machine has detected that the sample has broken.

Load Hold: Test machine moves until a specified load then maintains the load for a specific time period.

Cycle Test: Test machine cycles a specified number of times between a selection of limit condition types. This type of test is designed for repetitive applications such as fatigue and durability.

Load Averaging: Dynamically captures data points and averages the result over a distance or period of time. This requirement is common in peel testing and coefficient of friction testing.

Types of Force Measurement Devices

Analog force gauges: Rugged and reliable, these basic low-cost gauges provide accurate force measurement readings. Maximum reading pointer holds peak force readings.

Digital force gauges: Offer higher levels of precision readings and ease of use with rapid internal sampling rates. All models capture and hold peak readings. Some models can calculate statistics and most include RS232 and USB ports for data transfer to PCs.

Manual test stands: These reliable and lower-priced stands are available in either lever or hand-wheel-operated versions. They’re suitable for a wide variety of applications where budgets are a concern.

Motorized test stands: Motorized test stands are available as simple-to-use dial or keypad control models or more advanced digitally controlled models that offer display and control of speed and travel distances. Most models can be programmed for speed, high and low deflection points, and single or continuous cycling. When used with the appropriate software force vs. deflection readings can be saved and or graphed for additional data analysis.

Gripping fixtures: Gripping fixtures are an integral part of a testing system and are used to secure samples. Most of our fixtures can be used on any product line.

Software: Software is used in force measurement to improve and streamline the testing, data acquisition, and data analysis process.

Hopefully, this guide helped you narrow down your force-measurement needs. See our force and torque measurement products here. Reach out to us at 866-653-4741 or using our online form.