S-Beam Metric Load Cells
Metric S-Beam Load Cells for Universal Testing Machines
S-beam load cells are among the most widely used force sensors in universal testing machine (UTM) applications due to their compact geometry, bidirectional measurement capability, and exceptional accuracy. Designed to measure both tensile and compressive forces, metric S-beam load cells are ideal for laboratories, manufacturing environments, and research facilities operating within ISO-based testing frameworks that require reliable and repeatable force data.
Characterized by their distinctive “S”-shaped profile, these load cells are engineered to deform in a highly predictable manner under load. This controlled deflection allows the internal strain gauges to precisely measure force while maintaining excellent linearity and minimal hysteresis.
How Metric S-Beam Load Cells Work
At the core of a metric S-beam load cell is a precision-machined alloy steel or stainless steel elastic element instrumented with bonded foil strain gauges. These gauges are wired into a full Wheatstone bridge, enabling the sensor to convert mechanical strain into a proportional electrical signal suitable for high-resolution data acquisition systems.
When a force is applied:
In Tension
The upper threaded coupling pulls upward while the lower coupling pulls downward. The center web of the S-beam experiences shear and bending strain, causing two gauges to elongate while the opposing gauges compress. This imbalance in the Wheatstone bridge generates a differential voltage proportional to the applied tensile force.
In Compression
The force path reverses as the couplings push toward each other. Although the direction of strain changes, the bridge remains symmetrical, allowing the load cell to measure compressive force with the same level of precision.
Because strain levels remain extremely small—often measured in microstrain—the elastic element always operates within its designed range, ensuring repeatable measurements across thousands or even millions of cycles.
Key Performance Advantages
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True bidirectional measurement for both tension and compression
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Excellent accuracy, repeatability, and long-term stability
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Compact form factor ideal for benchtop and floor-standing UTMs
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Strong resistance to off-axis loading when properly aligned
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Optimized for SI force measurement in newton (N) and kilonewton (kN) ranges
Metric Threaded Couplings and Load Train Integration
Metric S-beam load cells typically feature female threaded holes on both the upper and lower interfaces. Common thread styles include:
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M6 × 1.0
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M8 × 1.25
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M10 × 1.5
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M12 × 1.75
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M16 × 2.0
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M20 × 2.5
These standardized connections allow the load cell to integrate seamlessly into the load train—the mechanical path through which force travels from the crosshead to the specimen.
Using threaded adapters, eye ends, clevis joints, or grip rods, a metric S-beam can be quickly paired with:
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Wedge grips
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Pneumatic grips
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Peel and adhesion fixtures
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Shear tools
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Compression platens
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Custom test frames
Proper thread engagement and axial alignment are critical. Even minor misalignment can introduce bending moments that degrade measurement accuracy and potentially damage the sensor.
Why Metric S-Beams Excel in Tensile and Compression Testing
Universal testing machines demand force sensors that respond instantly and predictably across varying load conditions. Metric S-beam load cells perform exceptionally well because the force path travels directly through the sensor’s neutral axis, minimizing measurement uncertainty.
In tensile testing, the inline configuration keeps the specimen centered, promoting uniform stress distribution and helping laboratories comply with stringent ISO and ASTM testing requirements.
In compression testing, the same sensor can remain installed—eliminating changeover time and reducing calibration variables. This flexibility makes S-beams especially valuable in multi-discipline laboratories where efficiency and repeatability are essential.
Their geometry also naturally supports lower-capacity testing where measurement resolution is critical, such as:
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Plastics and thin films
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Elastomers and rubber
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Medical device components
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Packaging materials
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Textiles and technical fibers
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Precision springs
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Micro-mechanical assemblies
Metric S-Beam Load Cells from Universal Test Machine Co.
Universal Test Machine Co. supplies precision metric S-beam load cells engineered specifically for integration with universal testing machines and custom force measurement systems used throughout global testing environments.
Our offering includes:
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Replacement load cells compatible with many legacy and modern test frames
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Metric thread configurations for straightforward mechanical integration
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Load cell and indicator packages for customers building their own tensile testing systems
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Capacities spanning from low-force newton ranges to high-capacity kilonewton applications to preserve measurement resolution
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Models suitable for both static and cyclic testing environments
Every load cell is delivered with a detailed ISO/IEC 17025 calibration certificate, ensuring traceability, audit readiness, and complete confidence in your force data.
Built for Accurate Force Measurement
This page serves as the gateway to our metric S-beam load cell product family, where capacities, dimensions, threaded interfaces, and performance characteristics are organized to help you quickly identify the correct sensor for your application.
Whether you are upgrading an existing universal testing machine, replacing an aging sensor, or engineering a custom test setup for international compliance, metric S-beam load cells provide the precision force measurement foundation required for dependable materials testing.
