Force Gauges
A force gauge is a force measurement device for quantifying both compression (push) and tension (pull) forces. Often called a push pull gauge or push pull scale, these instruments provide readings in kilograms, pounds, and Newtons.
Essential for quality control and research, they help verify product strength and ensure industry compliance. Whether you need a digital or mechanical force gauge, a reliable force gauge is crucial for many applications.
Types of Force Gauges
Force gauges are essential tools for measuring push and pull forces, and they come in two main types: mechanical and digital. Typically made from robust materials, these instruments ensure durability and reliability.
Digital vs. Mechanical Force Gauges
Digital force gauges are increasingly preferred over mechanical ones, gradually replacing them in various applications. They consist of a load cell, electronics, and a display, providing accurate measurements. The load cell can be integrated into the main body or connected remotely, enhancing flexibility.
Measurement Capabilities
Some force gauges measure data in a single unit, such as newtons, while advanced models offer multiple measurement types, catering to diverse testing needs. Many digital force gauges come with extension rods and adapters, allowing for versatile testing applications. Additionally, some models can be mounted on test stands for more stable measurements.
Benefits of Force Gauges
Typical applications for force gauges include friction testing, door opening and testing the strength of wire. They are used for many industrial applications and are commonly used in research and development and laboratory environments.
Force gauges help decisions to be made on products or prototypes. For example, an acceptable door latch may need between 6 pounds and 8 pounds of force to open. If the door doesn't open with this amount of force, it won't be fit for purpose.
Force gauges are suitable for tests with a longer duration and are not typically used to measure impact or shock. Sudden increases in force will not be measured accurately by this type of instrument.
How Do Force Gauges Work?
A force gauge operates by converting mechanical deflection into a measurable force value. Both mechanical and digital force gauges utilise a sensing element, typically a load cell or a calibrated spring. When a force, whether tension (pull) or compression (push), is applied, this element deforms.
In a mechanical force gauge, this deformation directly drives a needle across a graduated dial, providing an immediate reading. For digital force gauges, the load cell converts the mechanical deformation into an electrical signal, which is then displayed as a numerical value on a digital screen. This process allows these instruments to provide precise and consistent readings in various units, allowing you to quantify the forces impacting your products and materials.
Applications of Force Gauges
Force gauges are crucial measurement devices across industries, quantifying push and pull for your needs:
Quality Control and Manufacturing
A force gauge can verify the tensile and breaking strength of materials and compounds. They also aid in evaluating the tactile behaviour of buttons and switches, providing data for both destructive and non-destructive testing.
Safety and Compliance
Force gauges are used to check the opening and closing forces of automatic doors in buildings or vehicles, assess the stability of structures, or verify compliance with minimum tensile strength for components like toy parts, ensuring regulatory adherence.
Product Development and Testing
For research and development, a force gauge characterises materials. A push pull scale evaluates adhesion, friction, or mechanical properties, aiding product validation.
Medical and Therapeutic Applications
This specialised force measurement enables clinicians and trainers to evaluate the success of therapeutic interventions and monitor strength gains in competitive sports training programmes.
How to Choose a Force Gauge
To ensure you choose the perfect force measurement device for your specific application, consider these key factors:
- Force Type: Identify the force you need to measure: tension, compression, or both. As such, a versatile push pull scale covers dual directions.
- Capacity and Resolution: Choose a force gauge with capacity exceeding your maximum load; for smaller forces, opt for a digital or mechanical force gauge with higher resolution.
- Configuration: Decide between a handheld push meter for flexibility or a test stand for repeatable measurements.
- Attachments: Most offer basic tension/compression, but some digital force scale or push pull meter units provide specialised accessories for torsion, peel, or adhesion tests.
- Data Output and Connectivity: Many digital force gauges feature internal data logging, USB/Bluetooth connectivity, and software compatibility, enabling detailed analysis and reporting.
- Environmental Considerations: For demanding or harsh conditions, look for push meter with appropriate IP ratings and robust construction materials to ensure durability and consistent performance.
How to Order Force Gauges from RS Hong Kong?
For efficient acquisition of force gauges, trust RS Hong Kong. Our comprehensive catalogue offers a wide choice of push meters, digital force scales, and other force measurement devices from top brands such as RS PRO, Sauter, and Tractel. To order, select your items online, add them to your basket, and complete your purchase via our secure checkout.
Additionally, our catalogue offers other essential tools for your projects, such as thickness meters and digital height gauges.
How Delivery Works at RS Hong Kong
At RS Hong Kong, we ensure your force gauges and other essential equipment arrive swiftly. Leveraging our efficient global network, your order is dispatched promptly from our distribution centres.
With convenient tracking available through your RS Online account, you can easily monitor your package's journey directly to your location in Hong Kong.
To learn more about our delivery options and associated fees, visit our Delivery page.
