What is force measurement, and what is it used for?

Force measurement refers to the quantitative measurement of mechanical forces such as tension, compression, or bending. It is used in test benches, manufacturing facilities, and quality control to analyze loads and monitor processes.

How does a strain gauge work?

A strain gauge measures the strain of a component by detecting a change in its electrical resistance that is proportional to the strain. A measuring bridge converts this change into an electrical signal, which allows conclusions to be drawn about the applied force.

Force Sensor vs. Torque Sensor – What’s the Difference?

The force sensor measures linear forces in newtons (N), while the torque sensor measures torque in newton-meters (Nm). Both use similar measurement principles (e.g., strain gauges), but differ in their mechanical design and load capacity.

What are the sources of error in force measurements?

Typical measurement errors arise from temperature fluctuations, incorrect installation, or transverse forces. Electrical interference, nonlinear loading, and material fatigue can also influence the result. Proper alignment, good shielding, and regular calibration ensure reliable measurement values.

What factors affect measurement accuracy?

In addition to sensor quality, calibration, and environmental conditions, temperature compensation and the power supply also affect accuracy. The installation configuration and load distribution also play a decisive role.

How do I integrate new sensors into existing systems?

Via standardized interfaces (e.g., analog output, CAN, EtherCAT). It is important to use suitable amplifiers and integrate them into the existing control system.

Are GTM sensors compatible with control systems and data acquisition systems from other manufacturers?

Yes, they are generally compatible with many control systems and data acquisition systems via standardized interfaces. Specific compatibility depends on the model in question.

Industrial Measurement Technology for Force & Torque

We develop and manufacture industrial measurement technology for the precise measurement of forces, torques and multiple components (multi-axis). This allows us to cover the entire measurement chain: from force transducers and torque transducers to multi-component transducers (MKA) and transfer standards as well as strain-gauge measuring amplifiers, turnkey standard machines, calibration machines and matched accessories.

In multi-component measurement technology, we apply our many years of experience with high-precision force and torque transducers to complex multi-axis measurement tasks. In addition to standardized products, we also develop customized sensors, measurement solutions and standard as well as calibration machines, which are used worldwide in industry, test engineering, calibration laboratories and national metrology institutes.

An overview of our product range for industrial measurement technology:

Force transducers for precise force measurements in test benches, medical technology, the automotive industry and many more applications.
Torque transducers for rotating and non-rotating applications
Multi-component/ multi-axis transducers (MKA) for forces and moments
Transfer standards for traceable calibrations
Strain-gauge measuring amplifiers, standard machines and calibration machines for an end-to-end measurement chain
Mechanical and electrical accessories for the reliable and reproducible integration of our sensors

Multi-Axis Transducer Series MKA

6 components: Fx, Fy, Fz; Mx, My, Mz
Largest parameter spread throughout all measuring ranges
For static and dynamic applications
Nominal load: axial 0.3 to 4000 kN, transverse 5 N·m up to 200 kN·m
Accuracy class: 0.2

Multi-Axis Transducer Series LVS

6 Components: Fx, Fy, Fz; Mx, My, Mz
For static and dynamic applications
Nominal load: axial 10 to 250 kN, transverse 0,1 to 50 kN·m
Accuracy class: 0.1

Multi-Axis Transducer Series MPF

6 components: Fx, Fy, Fz, Mx, My, Mz
For static and dynamic loads
Maximum precision and versatility
Integrated mechanical decoupling
Custom engineered measuring platform

Multi-Axis Transducer Series DKA ZE

Three components: Fz, Fx, Fy
Force ratio F_Z/F_X,Y= 10:1
Nominal force range: 0.5 kN to 10 kN
Accuracy class: 0.2 - 0.3
Very compact design

Multi-Axis Transducer Series XY

Components: Fx, Fy
Specially designed for tire uniformity testing machines
Nominal force range F_x/F_y: 1000/500 lbf to 2000/1000 lbf
Low cross-talk, low linearity deviation (0.1 %)
Fatigue strength limit: >100 million load cycles

Multi-Axis Transducer Combinations for Tension-Torsion Testing Machines

Components: Fz, Mz
For moments, tensile and compressive forces, static and dynamic
K series nominal force range: 200 N to 630 kN
M series rated torque: 2 N·m to 10 kN·m
Precision class up to 0.05

Interesting facts about GTM products

A measurement chain comprises all components that convert a physical quantity into a usable measured value.
It consists of a sensor (e.g., strain gauge), a measurement amplifier or electronics for signal conditioning, and software for evaluation and display.
Cables, connectors, and filters are also part of it, as they influence the signal and thus the measurement result.
In short: The measurement chain includes everything involved in the signal path that can alter the measurement result, from the acquisition of the quantity to the display of the measured value.

The sensor is mechanically installed correctly in the force flow, electrically connected, and integrated into the control system via interfaces such as EtherCAT, CAN, and others. Calibration and parameterization are then performed using the evaluation software to integrate precise measurement values into the test or production process.

#Sensors, systems and accessories for industrial measurement technology