Safety instructions

The installation, commissioning and operation of load-measuring bolts must be carried out strictly in accordance with the applicable safety regulations. Installation and commissioning must be carried out by suitably qualified personnel.

Before installation, check that the load-measuring bolt is suitable for the intended application. The specifications and technical requirements set out in the relevant data sheet must be observed.

Failure to comply with the safety regulations may result in serious injury and damage to property.

Mechanical installation

Load cells are sensitive, precision sensors. Never use a hammer to fit them! Impacts and blows can damage the load cell and impair its measurement accuracy.

The force to be measured should be the only force acting on the load cell. The force must always be applied in the direction indicated by the force arrow engraved on the front face..

The load cell must be secured against axial displacement and rotation. A shaft retainer is used for this purpose as standard. The relevant specifications, for example in accordance with DIN 15058, must be observed.

To ensure accurate measurements, all moving parts, such as pulleys and cable guides, should always be adequately lubricated. A correctly installed load cell is, in principle, maintenance-free.

Connection cables and cable routing

The connection cables for VELOMAT load cells are supplied as standard with a PVC outer sheath. For more demanding requirements, such as chemical resistance, UV resistance or abrasion resistance, the connection cables can also be supplied with a PUR outer sheath on request.

If PUR is not suitable for the specific operating conditions, the connection cables must also be routed through suitable protective conduits.

For load cells with a bridge output, the connection cable should not exceed a length of 3 m. If a greater distance is required, a signal conditioner must be connected within the cable.

The connection cables must be routed separately and at a sufficient distance from high-voltage and power cables to prevent interference with the measurement signal.

Causes of failure

Load-measuring pins are robust machine components which, when fitted correctly and operated as intended, can function reliably for many years. However, various external factors or improper loading can lead to premature failure.

The most common causes include:

• Overloading caused by forces exceeding the maximum permissible operating force, for example due to impact forces or torques
• Moisture penetrating the load cell
• Chemical influences that corrode the sensor or its components
• Welding work carried out in the immediate vicinity of the load cell, if welding current flows through the load cell during this process
• Overheating of the load cell
• Damage to the connection cable

Professional installation, adherence to the permissible operating conditions and careful handling of the load-measuring bolt are key to ensuring a long service life and reliable measurements.