Traction dynamometers and tension dynamometers are used to measure force in tension, traction and weighing applications with cables, guy wires and chain. Traction dynamometers and tension dynamometers are used to measure traction or tension in many different applications, including testing cables on suspension bridges or adjusting tension on electrical cables or telephone wires. Dynamometers are available as simple dials that use a printed scale and needle to show force measurement. They are also available as digital devices with a central processing unit (CPU) for reporting data with great accuracy.

Traction dynamometers and tension dynamometers vary according to weight or force capacity and accuracy. A standard traction and tension dynamometer includes the shackles, hooks, and pins necessary to attach a weighing scale to the cables or wires. Digital traction and tension dynamometers use strain gauge type load cells to measure force, load, tension, or traction control in lifting applications. A load cell is a transducer that converts a physical force into an electric signal. Load cells are used frequently in electronic weighing equipment and force and tension measurement equipment. Traction dynamometers and tension dynamometers may use several different types of load cells, including a compression load cell, a tension load cell, or a combination compression/tension load cell. Load cells can come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, from miniature components to large devices for crane applications. A combination compression/tension load cell is often in an S-beam configuration. It may also be hermetically sealed for use in harsh environments.

Applications

Traction dynamometers and tension dynamometers are used frequently in large construction applications, foundries, oil rigs and platforms, and other applications that involve heavy lifting or the movement of materials with cranes. Traction and tension dynamometers are also used to guard against overloading cranes or other lifting devices, or to prevent putting too much strain or tension on guy wires. Traction and tension dynamometers are also used for monitoring traction control in rigging systems.