Plate / Platform Force and Load Sensors
Last Updated: April 1, 2025
Description
Plate or platform force and load sensors are devices designed to measure the force or load applied to a surface. These sensors provide a digital reading of the force exerted on them, allowing for precise measurement and monitoring of loads.
Working Principle
Plate or platform force and load sensors operate by detecting changes in physical properties when a force is applied. For example, capacitive load cells use changes in capacitance between two parallel plates to measure force. When a load is applied, the separation between the plates changes, altering the capacitance, which is then converted into an electrical signal . Piezoelectric load cells, on the other hand, utilize the piezoelectric effect, where certain materials generate an electric charge in response to mechanical stress . These sensors are useful because they provide accurate and real-time measurements of force, which is critical in various engineering and industrial applications.
Applications
Plate or platform force and load sensors are used in a variety of applications. For instance, in top-load testing, these sensors are employed to measure the force required to deform materials, which is crucial for packaging manufacturers to ensure their products can withstand production, distribution, and storage stresses . Additionally, piezoelectric force measurement is applied in semiconductor production to measure the parallelism of machine tools .
Advantages over other Force and Load Sensors
One advantage of piezoelectric load cells is their fast response time and high-frequency response, making them suitable for dynamic force measurements . Capacitive load cells offer precise measurements due to their sensitivity to changes in capacitance, which can be advantageous in applications requiring high accuracy .
Limitations
A limitation of load cells is the risk of damage through overloading, especially in lower capacity load cells, which are more sensitive but less robust against large peak loads . Additionally, some sensors, like the 1-component load washer force sensor, require recalibration after installation to ensure accurate measurements .
Considerations
When selecting plate or platform force and load sensors, several factors should be considered. Initial costs can vary depending on the type and capacity of the sensor. Operating expenses may include recalibration and maintenance, especially for sensors that require regular recalibration to maintain accuracy . Durability is another consideration, as sensors must withstand the specific environmental conditions of their application. Accuracy is crucial, particularly in applications where precise force measurement is critical. Replacement and maintenance costs should also be factored into the overall cost of ownership, as these can impact the long-term viability of the sensor system.
from Transducer Techniques, LLC
GSO SERIES. CAPACITY RANGES: 10, 25, 30, 50, 100, 150,. 250, 500, 1,000 GRAMS. The GS0 Series Load Cells can be utilized in tension or compression or both with excellent compliance. The force sensing end of the anodized aluminum GS0 Series is tapped 6-32 thru for attachment possibilities for almost... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Force Measured: Tension (optional feature); Compression
- Force Rating: 10 to 1000
- Output: Analog Voltage
from ABB Measurement & Analytics
The PillowBlock comes in three versions: The standard version, PFTL 101A/B, is often used for accurate measurement in the paper industry, for instance paper machines, calenders, coaters and winders. For web tension measurement in dryer sections in paper machines, the mill duty version, PFTL... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Device: Sensor / Transducer
- Force Rating: 112 to 4496
- Technology: Magnetoelastic
from ABB Measurement & Analytics
Using this horizontal force component to measure strip tension can be highly advantageous. The load cell can be sized to measure just the strip tension, excluding the tare weight of the roll. The result is optimized measurement accuracy. Another advantage is that ABB ’s unique horizontal load... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Device: Sensor / Transducer
- Force Rating: 2248 to 22480
- Technology: Magnetoelastic
from ABB Measurement & Analytics
The Millmate Looper Tensiometer load cells are made in a mill proof version. The load cells are available in two sizes covering the typical measuring ranges in hot rolling mills.The Pressductor force transducers inside the load cell housing are well suited for harsh mill conditions such as dirt,... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Device: Sensor / Transducer
- Force Rating: 4496 to 11240
- Technology: Magnetoelastic
from ABB Measurement & Analytics
Unlike load cells that measure along the vertical axis, they are not forced to sense the roll weight along with the web tension. So these load cells can be sized to the tension level alone, and function at the high end of their measuring range, where load cells perform best. The result: always... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Device: Sensor / Transducer
- Force Rating: 22.48 to 225
- Technology: Magnetoelastic
from ABB Measurement & Analytics
Machined from a single block of stainless steel, they have exceptionally high tolerance for overloads, shock and impact, in addition to high immunity to dust and corrosion. The standard construction is of high resistant stainless steel with potted internal components. Mill-duty versions are... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Device: Sensor / Transducer
- Force Rating: 1124 to 11240
- Technology: Magnetoelastic
from ABB Measurement & Analytics
The load cell is a solid tensiometer made from stainless steel with exceptional ruggedness and high spring constant in line with other Pressductor PillowBlock load cells. It can be installed under the bearing housing and senses the vertical force, measuring in both directions. PFCL241-SE is... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Device: Sensor / Transducer
- Force Rating: 44960
- Technology: Magnetoelastic
from ABB Measurement & Analytics
The load cell is designed to measure vertical forces in both directions in most types of web processing machinery used in the converting, plastic film, printing, textiles, and other industries. Quality load cells that eliminates drift and recalibration. Wide operating range. Easy to apply [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Device: Sensor / Transducer
- Force Rating: 44.96 to 225
- Technology: Magnetoelastic
from AMETEK Sensors, Test & Calibration
The Chatillon ® SLC Series loadcells are designed to be used exclusively with the Chatillon DFS-R-ND Series digital indicator. SLC loadcells feature "smart technology". The DFS-R-ND digital indicator recognizes the loadcell and automatically scales the gauge to the capacity of the loadcell... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: 0.25
- Force Rating: 0.0 to 0.5000
- Output: Analog Voltage
from FUTEK Advanced Sensor Technology, Inc.
FFP350 , 1 lb , Flat Plate Force Sensor , Standard , Material - 300 Series S.S. , 29 Awg 4 Conductor Spiral Teflon Cable , 6 in Long [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: -0.25 to 0.25
- Force Rating: 1
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Baumer Ltd.
Cavity pressure quartz sensors are used in direct or indirect cavity pressure measurement for the injection molding process. The characteristics of these sensors allow high-definition measurements even in the lowest pressure ranges. • Miniature measuring tongue. • Cavity pressure sensor... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: 1.00
- Force Rating: 0.0 to 2248
- Force Measured: Compression
from Sherborne Sensors
The "UNIWEIGH" series load cell was originally developed for use in electronic scales where the load may be placed at any random position on a loading platform. The "UNIWEIGH" series load cells are available in two distinct sensitivities offering the customer considerably lower ranges of this device... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Force Measured: Compression
- Force Rating: 0.2205 to 110
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Sensor Developments, Inc.
This three component force sensor measures force in the Fx, Fy, and Fz axis. Each axis has a full scale capacity of +/- 5,000 lbs. and produces a 2.0 mV/V full scale nominal output. An integral cable assembly exits the side of the sensor and terminates in three, six pin connectors. This sensor is... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: 0.10
- Force Rating: 5000
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Mecmesin Corporation
The Compact Force Gauge+ is a lightweight, pocket-sized alternative to the analogue spring balance, and includes RS232 output for easy data transmission to peripheral devices. Powered by AA batteries, the CFG+ can be used handheld or fixed to a manual or motorised test stand for basic tension and... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: 0.50
- Force Rating: 11.24 to 112
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
from Interface, Inc. - AZ
Why the Interface series MBI Fatigue Rated Mini Beam Overload Protected Load Cell is the best in class: Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages. Performance to 0.03%. Low height - 1in max. 0.0008%/ °F temp. effect on output. 10x overload protection. Eccentric load compensated. [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Force Measured: Compression
- Force Rating: 2 to 10
- Output: Analog Voltage; 2 mV/V
from PMC Engineering LLC
The KBP Series of miniature low profile load cells are designed for the detection and measurement of compression forces on brake and other pedal applications in on-vehicle testing. Typical applications include: Brake Force - Pedal Feedback - General Testing. Features: ±110lbsf to... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform; Miniature
- Accuracy: 0.25
- Force Rating: 450
- Force Measured: Compression
from Minebea Intec GmbH
The MP 55 Platform Weigh Cell is made completely from stainless steel, is available in a load range from 11 kg to 200 kg and platform sizes up to 600 mm x 600 mm. It is specially designed for integration into beltweighers, counting scales and checkweighers. Protection class IP68, IP69K. Full... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Force Measured: Compression
- Force Rating: 24.25 to 441
- Device: Sensor / Transducer
from FMS USA, Inc.
These force sensors are perfect for difficult ambient conditions, e.g. cooling water, wet paperpulp, high temperatures, humidity, acids and bases. They can be used in virtually any wet environment. Features. Advantages. Overload protection, 10-times nominal measuring force. No recalibration... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: 0.50
- Force Rating: 450 to 4496
- Force Measured: Tension
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
The LCAD Series Platform Load Cell is a hermetically sealed load cell. Applications include industrial food processing and weighing and automated weighing stations, where high accuracy and watertightness are important. The all-stainless-steel construction and rugged design give the LCAD high... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: -0.02 to 0.02
- Force Rating: 50
- Force Measured: Compression
from NOSHOK, Inc.
Compact flat body design for compression force measurement. Ranges from 140 lbs.-force to 7,000 lbs.-force. Accuracy levels range from ±0.125% Full scale (B.F.S.L.) to ±1.5% Full scale, depending on the measuring instrument. Durable stainless steel housing and piston provide... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: 0.12 to 0.50
- Force Rating: 150 to 7000
- Force Measured: Compression
from tecsis LP
Product Description. 0-2,000 psi [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Device: Sensor / Transducer
- Output: Analog Voltage
- Technology: Strain Gauge
from AMETEK Sensors, Test & Calibration
The CHATILLON ® TLC Series loadcells are full-bridge strain gauge sensors complete with 15-pin plug. These loadcells are used exclusively with the all-new Chatillon TCD Series digital force testers. They may also be used with the Chatillon DFS-R-ND digital indicator (recalibration with the... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: 0.10
- Force Rating: 0.0 to 0.5000
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Sensor Developments, Inc.
This tri-axial component load cell was original designed to measure the three force components of a wiper motor used on passenger vehicle. Adaptable to many different applications requiring the measurement of low capacities in a small package size. [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: 0.25
- Force Rating: 80
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Mecmesin Corporation
Our mid-range low-cost analogue force gauges are ideal for applications where quick and simple force measurement is required up to 30 kilogram-force. Designed to hold the peak reading, these gauges can be stored in a toolkit for testing in the field. For improved precision and test functionality,... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: 2.00
- Force Rating: 2 to 60
- Force Measured: Compression
from Interface, Inc. - AZ
Why the Interface series SML Low Height Load Cell is the best in class: Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages. From 3/4" high. Performance to .05%. Low extraneous load sensitivity. Tension and compression. .0008%/ °F temp. effect on output. Overload protected (SML-5 and... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 5 to 1000
- Output: Analog Voltage; 2.0 mV/V
from Minebea Intec GmbH
Ideal for integration in bench scales, counting scales and checkweighers: with the LC series Single Point load cells, you can rely on the tried-and tested quality of a leading manufacturer of industrial weighing technology. Suitable for load ranges of 7.5 kg to 500 kg and a platform size of up to... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: 0.02
- Force Rating: 16.54 to 1102
- Shear Type: Single Point Bending Beam
from FMS USA, Inc.
The UMGZ force measuring blocks are ruggedly constructed, accurate and very reliable. They are used in normal and dry ambient conditions. Features. Advantages. Overload protection, 10-times nominal measuring force. No recalibration required. Nominal forces of 0,5-100 kN. Nominal forces suitable for... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: 0.50
- Force Rating: 112 to 450
- Force Measured: Tension
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
The LCMAD Series platform load cells are hermetically sealed and designed for applications such as industrial food processing and weighing and automated weighing stations, where high accuracy and watertightness are important. The all stainless steel construction and rugged design make the LCMAD load... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Force Measured: Compression
- Force Rating: 50 to 1000
- Output: Analog Voltage
from NOSHOK, Inc.
Features & Benefits. Thin film sensor is laser welded to the deformation body for superior strength and performance. Extremely accurate - with the help of Finite Element Method Analysis, this sensor is able to reach accuracies from 0.2% to 1% Full Scale. Custom-designed to customer... [See More]
- Package: S-beam; Pancake; Donut / Washer; Plate / Platform; Bolt; Link; Miniature; Cantilever; Canister; Load Pin; Rod End - Male; Rod End - Female; Tank Weighing
- Accuracy: 0.20 to 1.00
- Force Rating: 1000 to 100000
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression; Shear
from Sensor Developments, Inc.
This is a high capacity tri-axial sensor used to measure the performance of a skid steer utility vehicle. High extraneous load handling capabilities. [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Accuracy: 1.00
- Force Rating: 10000 to 20000
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Interface, Inc. - AZ
Why the Interface series MCC Mini Compression-Only is the best in class: Calibration application. Test machine application. Designed to fit in a machine that has tight space restrictions. Capacity 500N [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Force Measured: Compression
- Force Rating: 112
- Output: Analog Voltage; 2.2 mV/V
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
•. Heavy Duty Design. •. For Tank and Bin Weighing. •. Corrosion Resistant Material. •. Self-Adjusting for Accurate Measurements [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform; Cantilever
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 100
- Device: Sensor / Transducer
from Interface, Inc. - AZ
Why the Interface series SPI Platform Scale Load Cell (3-15 lbf) is the best in class: Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages. 0.01% nonrepeatability. Environmentally sealed. 0.0008%/ °F temp. effect on output. 10x overload protection. Eccentric load compensated. More... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Force Measured: Compression
- Force Rating: 3 to 15
- Output: Analog Voltage; 3.0 mV/V
from Interface, Inc. - AZ
Why the Interface series ULC Ultra Low Capacity Load Cell is the best in class: Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages. Highest performance gram cell in the world. Overload protected. Safe side load overload to 5X capacity. Low extraneous load sensitivity. Low temperature effect... [See More]
- Package: Plate / Platform
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 0.1124 to 0.4496
- Output: Analog Voltage; +/- 1.5 mV/V