S-beam Force and Load Sensors
Last Updated: April 1, 2025
Description
S-beam force and load sensors, also known as S-type load cells, are designed to measure both tension and compression forces. They have a distinctive S-shaped design, which allows them to effectively measure forces in both pulling (tension) and pushing (compression) directions.
Working Principle
The fundamental principle behind S-beam load cells involves the use of strain gauges. When a force is applied to the load cell, it deforms slightly, causing strain on the built-in strain gauges. These gauges are electrical resistors whose resistance changes proportionally with the applied force. This change in resistance is then transformed into an electrical output, which can be measured and calibrated to determine the force or weight exerted on the load cell. This principle makes S-beam load cells highly useful for precise and repeatable force measurements in various industrial applications.
Applications
S-beam load cells are widely used in industrial applications that require accurate force measurement in both tension and compression. Specific examples include their use in material testing, where they measure the force required to deform a material, and in packaging testing, where they ensure products are resilient to production, distribution, and storage conditions. They are also employed in weighing systems and force measurement setups in manufacturing processes.
Advantages over other Force and Load Sensors
S-beam load cells offer several advantages over other types of force and load sensors. They provide high precision and accuracy, which is crucial in applications where exact force measurement is necessary. Their robust construction allows them to withstand harsh environmental conditions, making them reliable in various settings. Additionally, their ability to measure both tension and compression forces makes them versatile for different applications.
Limitations
One limitation of S-beam load cells is their sensitivity to external factors such as temperature variations, vibrations, or electromagnetic fields, which can affect their accuracy and stability. They may also require careful calibration to ensure precise measurements, which can be a time-consuming process.
Considerations
When considering the use of S-beam load cells, it is important to evaluate initial costs, operating expenses, and maintenance requirements. While they offer high accuracy and durability, the initial investment can be significant. Operating expenses may include regular calibration and maintenance to ensure continued accuracy and reliability. Additionally, users should consider the specific environmental conditions in which the load cells will operate to mitigate any potential interference from external factors.
from Mark-10 Corporation
Series R01 rugged smart sensors are designed for measuring tension and compression force, with applications in virtually every industry. Durable S-Beam design with threaded holes on two sides allows for many configurations. Capacities available from 50 to 10,000 lbF [250 N to 50 kN]. Compatible with... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 112
- Device: Sensor Element / Chip
from Transducer Techniques, LLC
SBO SERIES. CAPACITY RANGES: 50, 100, 200, 300, 500, 750,. 1,000, 2,000, 3,000, 5,000 lb. SB0 Series load cells are offered for tension or compression applications for precision weight and force measurements. Applications might include conveyor scales, check weighers, and counting scales. SB0 Series... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension (optional feature); Compression
- Force Rating: 50
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Powell Electronics, Inc.
Load Cells: S-beams LC100 series [See More]
- Package: S-beam
from Sherborne Sensors
The U4000M ultra miniature load cell is equally suitable for tension or compression applications and is especially useful where space is limited. The internal construction consists of a full bridge of transducer quality strain gauges that are bonded to the transducer element. This element is... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: -112 to 112
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Interface, Inc. - AZ
3-Axis – Fx Fy Fz; independent bridges. • 10N to 50 kN force range. • Compact size. • Low crosstalk. • 1 mV/V output. • Temperature compensated. Interface ’s 3-axis load cell measures forces simultaneously in 3 mutually perpendicular axes: X, Y, and Z - tension... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 2.25 to 11240
- Output: Analog Voltage; 1
from MTS Systems Corporation
Includes a standard 25 pin d-sub connector, cable, self ID module, NIST traceable calibration certificate and a plastic case. Mounting adapters and on-site calibration services must be purchased separately. Designed for load measurement in tension or compression. CAUTION: lower force load cells can... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 110
- 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 Mecmesin Corporation
Combining accuracy and size, Junior S-Beam loadcells are ideal for tension and compression applications where space is extremely limited. Dedicated fixtures can be fitted via threaded holes. Key Features. Miniature design. Peak hold of maximum reading at fast rate 5000Hz when used with AFTI Display... [See More]
- Package: S-beam; Miniature
- Accuracy: 0.25
- Force Rating: 0.2248 to 112
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
from Minebea Intec GmbH
Compression load cells from 100 kg to 5 t. Specially designed for tank and hopper weighing as well as basic dosing systems. For use in EX zones 1, 2, 20, 21, 22 and FM DIV 1. Ultra-high precision load cell for batching applications. Load cell capacity range from 100 kg to 5 t. Accuracy class: 0.04 %... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: 0.01 to 0.04
- Force Rating: 220 to 11023
- Force Measured: Compression
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
•. FM Intrinsically Safe. •. All Stainless Steel for Harsh Industrial Applications. •. 0.25% Interchangeable for Multiple Load Cell Applications. •. 5 Point Calibration with 59 kOhm Shunt Cal Data [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 25 to 40000
- Output: Analog Voltage
from tecsis LP
Model XLSR load cell is a high accuracy 'S-type' unit created specifically for the OEM market. With popular sizes from 2.4" to 7" tall, the XLSR covers a wide range of application requirements at a competitive price. Ranges from 50 to 20,000 lbs. are available, with linearity and hysteresis of... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Output: Analog Voltage
- Force Rating: 50 to 20000
- Device: Sensor / Transducer
from FUTEK Advanced Sensor Technology, Inc.
LRM200 , 100 lb , JR S-Beam Load Cell with Male Thread , Standard , Material - 17-4 PH S.S. , 1/4-28-Thread , Overload Protection , 29 Awg 4 Conductor Spiral Shielded Silicone Cable , 5 ft Long [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: -0.10 to 0.10
- Force Rating: 100
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Sherborne Sensors
These load cells are suitable for use in a multitude of general purpose force measurement applications and are equally suitable for tension, compression of universal load application. The product may be readily customized by Sherborne Sensors ensuring a cost effective optimal force measurement... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 11.24 to 11240
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Interface, Inc. - AZ
Fatigue-rated: 1x107 fully reversed cycles. • Proprietary Interface temperature. compensated strain gages. • Capacities 25 to 2.5K lbf. • Environmentally sealed. • 0.02% nonrepeatability. • Near zero temp. effect on output –. 0.0008%/ °F (0.0015%/ °C). •... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: 0.05
- Force Rating: 25 to 200000
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
from MTS Systems Corporation
Includes force transducer and mating connector (Bendix PT02E-10-6P). Used in conjunction with transducer conditioners in load frame or actuator. Range cards, cables, spiral washer, and on-site calibration services must be purchased separately. CAUTION: lower force load cells can incur damage when... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 2
- Output: Analog Voltage
from NOSHOK, Inc.
Conventional design features internal threads which allow force to be easily introduced via suitable swivel heads. Factory internal calibration performed in tension and compression directions: 4...20 mA and 0...10 V; the zero signal is around 12 mA and 5 V. Calibrations in the tension or compression... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: 0.20
- Force Rating: 0.0 to 11240
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
from Mecmesin Corporation
SMART' S-Beam loadcells provide a versatile solution to general force measurement applications where space is not restricted. Dedicated fixtures can be fitted via threaded holes. Key Features. Peak hold of maximum reading at fast rate 5000Hz when used with AFTI Display and Advanced Force Gauge. [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: 0.25
- Force Rating: 22.48 to 5620
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
•. FM Intrinsically Safe. •. High Accuracy. •. Aluminum for Light Weight and Durability. •. Calibrated in Tension. •. 5-Point Calibration with 59 kOhm Shunt Cal Data [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 25 to 1000
- Output: Analog Voltage
from tecsis LP
Models F2351 and F23CA are standard 'S-type' load cells which utilize thin film sensing technology. In-line tension measurement from 2kN to 50kN is available, with ±0.1% FSO accuracy. These load cells feature integral amplification, excellent long term stability, and stainless steel... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: 0.20
- Force Rating: 450 to 11240
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
from FUTEK Advanced Sensor Technology, Inc.
LSB200 , 1 lb , JR S-Beam Load Cell , Standard , Material - 2024-T4 , #4-40-Thread , Overload Protection , 29 Awg 4 Conductor Spiral Shielded Silicone Cable , 5 ft Long, "No Risk Life Time Warranty" [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: -0.10 to 0.10
- Force Rating: 1
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Interface, Inc. - AZ
Why the Interface series SMA Series Minature S-Type Load Cell (U.S. & Metric) is the best in class: Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages. Performance to .05%. Small compact design. Tension and compression. More Information. The SMC is miniature version of SM where height is... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 15 to 200
- Output: Analog Voltage; 2.5 mV/V
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
•. FM Intrinsically Safe. •. Aluminum for Light Weight and Durability. •. Calibrated in Tension. •. 5-Point Calibration with 59 kOhm Shunt Cal Data Included. •. IP65 Level Protection. •. LC105 Cable Style or LC115 Connector Style [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: -0.03 to 0.03
- Force Rating: 25
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
from tecsis LP
The Model XLSA load cell features a high accuracy ‘S ’ beam design, built for measuring bidirectional forces with a threaded load connection on each end. A variety of sizes from 2.5" to 5.5" tall will fit into most applications, and ranges from 25 to 40,000 lbs. are offered. Available... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Output: Analog Voltage
- Force Rating: 25 to 40000
- Device: Sensor / Transducer
from FUTEK Advanced Sensor Technology, Inc.
LSB210 , 500 g , JR. S-Beam Load Cell , Submersible Version , Material - 2024-T4 , #4-40-Thread , Submersible , 29 Awg 4 Conductor Spiral Shielded Silicone Cable , 50 ft Long [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: -1.00 to 1.00
- Force Rating: 1.1
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Interface, Inc. - AZ
Capacity 5, 25, 50 lbf (20, 100, 200N). • Can be used in tension & compression. • Micro sized 3/4 ” x 3/4 ” x 1/4 ”. • Excellent temperature compensation. (0.005%/ °F Temp Effect on Output). • Overload protected [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: 0.10
- Force Rating: 5 to 50
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
•. Environmentally Protected for Washdown Applications. •. Corrosion Resistant. •. Calibration Certificate Supplied. •. 0.25% Interchangeable [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: 0.04
- Force Rating: 25 to 20000
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
from FUTEK Advanced Sensor Technology, Inc.
LSB302 (QLA220), 300 lb , S-Beam Load Cell (Submersible), Material - 2024-T4, M10x1.5-Thread, Submersible, 28 Awg 6 Conductor Shielded Polyurethane Cable, 15 ft Long [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: -0.25 to 0.25
- Force Rating: 300
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Interface, Inc. - AZ
Why the Interface series SM S-Type Load Cell (U.S. & Metric) is the best in class: Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages. High performance. 0.0008%/ °F temp. effect on output. Lowest creep (0.025%). Tension and compression. More Information. The SM is a low cost highly... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 10 to 1000
- Output: Analog Voltage; 3.0 mV/V
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
•. High Accuracy Industrial Applications. •. 5-Point NIST Traceable Calibration (in Tension) Included. •. 0.25% Interchangeability. •. Lightweight Aluminum Construction Ranges to 1000 lb. •. Rugged Stainless Steel on Upper Ranges. •. Load Buttons and Rod Ends Available [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: -0.03 to 0.03
- Force Rating: 25
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
from FUTEK Advanced Sensor Technology, Inc.
QLA256 (LSB200 Type) , 1 lb , Special JR S-Beam Load Cell , Material - 2024-T4 , M3x0.5-Thread , Overload Protection , 29 Awg 4 Conductor Spiral Shielded Silicone Cable , 2 ft Long with 6 Pins Hirose Mating Connector [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: -0.10 to 0.10
- Force Rating: 1
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Interface, Inc. - AZ
Why the Interface series SMT S-Type Overload Protected Load Cell (U.S. & Metric) is the best in class: Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages. Overload protected in both tension and compression. Safe overload to 10X capacity. High performance. Low creep. 1 to 450 lbf. More... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 1.1 to 450
- Output: Analog Voltage; 2.0 mV/V
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
bull;. Environmentally Protected to IP67. •. All Stainless Steel for Industrial Environments. •. 5 Point Calibration with 59 kOhm Shunt Cal Data. •. Tension Calibration Standard. •. 0.25% Interchangeability. •. Premium Temperature Compensation. •. Rod Ends and Load... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 25 to 20000
- Output: Analog Voltage
from FUTEK Advanced Sensor Technology, Inc.
QLA329 , 15 lb , JR S-Beam Load Cell , Material - 17-4PH S.S , M4x0.7-Thread , Overload Protection , 26 Awg 4 Conductor Spiral Teflon Cable , 8 in. Long [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: -0.10 to 0.10
- Force Rating: 15
- Output: Analog Voltage
from Interface, Inc. - AZ
Why the Interface series SSM Sealed S-Type Load Cell (U.S. & Metric) is the best in class: Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages. Environmentally sealed. 0.02% nonrepeatability. .0008%/ °F temp. effect on output. Lowest creep (0.025%). Tension and compression. More... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
- Force Rating: 50 to 5000
- Output: Analog Voltage; 3 mV/V
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
bull;. Environmentally Protected to IP67. •. All Stainless Steel for Industrial Environments. •. 5 Point Calibration with 59 kOhm Shunt Cal Data. •. Tension Calibration Standard. •. 0.25% Interchangeability. •. Premium Temperature Compensation. •. Rod Ends and Load... [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: 0.03
- Force Rating: 25
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
•. FM Intrinsically Safe. •. All Stainless Steel for Harsh Industrial Applications. •. 0.25% Interchangeable for Multiple Load Cell Applications. •. Calibrated in Tension. •. 5-Point Calibration Included. •. Rod Ends and Load Buttons Available [See More]
- Package: S-beam
- Accuracy: -0.03 to 0.03
- Force Rating: 25
- Force Measured: Tension; Compression