3-Component Quartz Force Rings and Links 260 & 261 Series

Three-component quartz force ring sensors are capable of simultaneously measuring dynamic force in three orthogonal directions (X, Y, and Z). They contain three sets of quartz plates that are stacked in a preloaded arrangement. Each set responds to the vector component of an applied force acting along its sensitive axis. 3-component ring force sensors must be statically preloaded for optimum performance. Preloading provides the sensing elements with the compressive loading required to allow the proper transmission of shear forces. Versions are available with ranges up to 10k lb (45k N) in the z-axis (perpendicular to the top surface), and up to 4000 lb (18k N) in the x-and y (shear) axes. Both ICP® and charge output styles are available. 

Highlights:

  • Measure 3-Orthogonal Forces Simultaneously
  • Stainless Steel Construction
  • Hermetically Sealed
  • Choice of ICP® or Charge Versions

Three-component force links eliminate the preload requirement of 3-component quartz force ring sensors, and offers a convenient, 4-screw hole mounting plate on each side end the sensor. Quartz 3-component force links are constructed by installing a 3-component force ring sensor, under preload, between two mounting plates.

An elastic, beryllium-copper stud holds the stainless steel assembly together. This elastic stud permits the applied force to be sensed by the crystals with a minimal amount of shunted force. The stud also provides the necessary normal force, and the friction required to transmit shear forces in the x- and y-axes. Since 3-component force links are factory preloaded, they may be used directly for measurement of compression and tension in the z-axis, and positive and negative forces in the x- and y-axes. Versions are available with ranges up to 10k lb (45k N) in the z-axis (perpendicular to the top surface), and up to 4000 lb (18k N) in the x- and y-axes. Both ICP® and charge output styles are available. ICP® designs use built-in microelectronic circuitry that provides a low-impedance voltage output via a multipin connector. This arrangement offers system simplicity by requiring only a single multi-conductor sensor cable. The low-impedance voltage signal makes this sensor ideal for use in harsh industrial environments.

Charge output 3-component force sensors operate with in-line charge converters or conventional laboratory-style charge amplifiers. The use of laboratory-style charge amplifiers permits each channel to be independently ranged to maximize signal-to-noise ratio. Charge output styles are recommended for higher temperature applications and can be used for quasi-static measurements with long discharge time constant charge amplifiers.