Tension Links 101
A tension link load cell is commonly used in lifting, both for short and long distances and weighing applications. This type of load cell sensor generally has capacities ranging from 2.2K lbf to 1.1M lbf (5 to 500 metric tons). All tension links are available in custom versions and large capacities based on the customer’s project requirements.
Interface’s Tension Link series is manufactured from high-tensile aluminum and stainless steel. Matched to shackle sizes, the load links have a rugged design for use in harsh environments on the surface and in water. The tension links are environmentally sealed to IP65, IP66, or IP67. There are higher ratings available upon request.
A major benefit of Interface tension links is the option for custom designs in dimensions, ratings, and capacities. The tension links are easy to install and are highly accurate. They are compact in size and lightweight. Another benefit is the options available, which include standard, wireless and self-indicating, giving the operator a variety of application use cases for quick measurement readings. Self-indicating tension links have a built-inaudible alarm, which the operator can set to warn when an applied weight or force is met.
Often, customers will integrate the tension links with an Interface Crosby-styled load shackle for robust applications that require accurate and reliable force measurement for lifting, weighing, hoisting, or towing apparatus requiring safety and monitoring sensors.
Wireless options are growing in acceptance for all types of uses. Interface provides wireless tension links that are compact and reduce the overall product weight based on the casing used to house the small alkaline batteries, which can be easily accessed by removing the telemetry housing cover while the internal electronics remain completely sealed. The antenna is also internally mounted, protecting it from accidental damage during use and handling, which is ideal for harsh environments.
Watch this discussion to learn more about the Interface Tension Links and Load Shackles wireless features.
Interface’s most popular tension links include:
WTSTL Wireless Tension Link Load Cell – Designed for lifting applications requiring short or long distances. This product can transmit wirelessly up to 600 meters in distance (clear line of sight) to a handheld display or USB base station. Model WTSTL is available in capacities ranging from 11K lbf to 220K lbf (5 to 100 metric tons). Custom versions and larger capacities are available upon request.
ISITL Self-Indicating Tension Link Load Cell – Manufactured from high-tensile aluminum to minimize weight, the ISITL is great for lifting and weighing in rugged or harsh environments. The self-indication tension link load cell is ideal for mobile use cases. It is simple to install and matches standard shackle sizes. They have a built-in display for applied weight or force in tons, kgs, lbs, or kN. Interface can also offer custom software for digital display or readouts to meet specific application requirements.
ITL Tension Link Load Cell – This basic tension link can be amplified with 5VDC, 10VDC, or 4-20mA Outputs. It can also be made to meet ATEX requirements. Model ITL is available in capacities ranging from 11K lbf to 220K lbf (5 to 100 metric tons). Custom versions and larger capacities can be requested at no additional charge based on the exact specifications the customer needs.
Please go here to learn more about our various load pins, load shackles, and tension links.
Load pin, Tension link, and Load Shackle App Note Catalog
