What is a Loading Pin?

Loading pins are a variation of the load cells used frequently in engineering. They are usually used as a replacement for shafts, clevises, and pivot pins in machinery. Loading pins function by determining the extent of force applied to them, with the assistance of a strain gauge located in the loading pins center.

The outer surface of loading pins is characterized by two grooves, which define the shear planes – the area between the forces to be measured. To supply the required load, the pins output a signal equivalent to the force experienced by the pin.

The Benefits of Using Loading Pins

As loading pins can function in extreme environments they are regarded as one of the simplest and most trustworthy systems for the measurement of system loads.

The pins can be used in extreme conditions, allowing them to be used universally in challenging applications, such as offshore. Loading pins are encased within a central bore, making them waterproof and allowing them to function when completely submerged.

Loading pins can be provided over a large range of different sizes and load capacities. This means engineers can always find the correct loading pin for their application.

Common Applications of Loading Pins

Loading pins are used extensively in a wide range of industries, which includes chemical manufacturing, aerospace, petrochemicals, and agriculture. Their highly versatile nature means that they can be used in many different applications, regularly being used for systems such as hoisting gear, cranes, elevators, and winches.

Loading Pins from HBM

HBM are industry leaders in the supply of transducers and measurement systems base on strain gauge technology, with a large variety of different loading pins for specialized use.

Their conventional loading pins have accuracies of 0.5% and have a capacity of between 0.25 and 100 T. Their overload point is reached at 150% of their capacity and their ultimate breaking point at 300%.

Loading pins from HBM are of a robust constitution, being made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, which allows them to be used in challenging environments with no need for maintenance. The temperature-compensated output signals of the pins are mV/V, 4 – 20 mA, 0 – 5 V DC.

HBM can also provide solution-specific loading pins, which are custom-designed, with unique electronics to suit every application. Conditioning of the pin signal is included in each design and, in addition, HBM can also supply IP 68 protection class anti-rotation keeper plates.

This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Hottinger Baldwin Messtechnik GmbH (HBM).

For more information on this source, please visit Hottinger Baldwin Messtechnik GmbH (HBM).