Force transducer with thin film sensor

According to European standard EN 280, every aerial working platform with a payload of more than 200 kg and a space of more than 1 m² has to be equipped with an overload protection. The platform has to be switched off at 110% of the nominal load of the platform, with an accuracy of ±10%.

The force transducer F9301 series, from tecsis, has been developed especially for such applications. As the force transducer has two independent measurement circuits, it fulfils the safety category 3 according to EN954-1, when a safety PLC is permanently testing the function of the force transducer. If an error is detected in one of the two measurement circuits, an alarm is triggered. The PLC will then only allow movements of the platform, which result in a decrease of the load.

The force transducer, which is used as a connection between the jib and the platform, is available with nominal loads of 350, 550, 750 or 1500 kg. The force transducer uses two thin film sensors instead of standard strain gauges. The amplifier is protected inside the measurement block, which is made from stainless steel. With a protection class of IP67 and an operating temperature range from -40 to +80 °C, the force transducer is suitable for outside applications.

The standard version has two analog outputs with 4-20 mA. A redundant CANopen interface or CANopenSafety interface is available as an option. The force transducer is also available in a voltage-proof version according to DIN VDE 0682-742, allowing it to work at voltage-carrying parts up to 1000 VAC and 1500 VDC.