MNM 500 lb x 0.1 lb S-Type Tension/Compression Scale Guide
- pete8781
- Jul 30
- 4 min read
Call MNM Scales at (832) 290-3120 or email mnmscales@yahoo.com for current availability, indicator identification, fixture questions or help deciding whether 500 lb capacity and 0.1 lb readability fit your spring, cable, actuator or pull-force test.
The MNM 500 lb x 0.1 lb S-type tension/compression scale is a calibrated force-measurement package for users who need a portable digital readout with much finer resolution than a typical heavy crane scale. MNM lists a 500 lb capacity, 0.1 lb accuracy/readability, Peak Hold, an alloy-steel S-type load cell, digital indicator, rechargeable battery/power supply and two eye bolts. This combination makes the system relevant for spring-force testing, cable tension, actuator pull/push testing, small winch measurement, clamp force, bench fixtures, quality checks and other applications where the force stays within a 500 lb range.
Verified product features
MNM’s live listing states 500 lb capacity with 0.1 lb accuracy/readability, Peak Hold, tension and compression use, alloy-steel S-type load cell, digital indicator, rechargeable battery and power supply, two eye bolts and calibrated ready-to-use positioning. The indicator description includes a plastic enclosure, mounting bracket, 1-inch LED or LCD backlit display, zero, gross, net, accumulation, printing, counting, check weighing and auto-hold, selectable lb/kg, RS-232 output, gravity adjustment, support for up to eight 350-ohm cells, a 6 V rechargeable battery, and published electronics figures of 6000e, maximum 30,000d and 0.3 µV/e. The exact indicator model/service-menu sequence is not identified on this listing.
Why 0.1 lb readability matters at 500 lb capacity
A tenth-pound display increment provides useful detail for tests where a 1 or 2 lb change is significant. For example, a spring can be compared at the same compressed length, an actuator can be checked at several positions, or cable pretension can be adjusted more precisely than with a coarse hanging scale. Displayed increment should not be confused with total measurement uncertainty: fixture friction, side loading, hysteresis, vibration, calibration quality and temperature can all affect real-world results. The extra digits are useful only when the mechanics are stable enough to support them.
Tension versus compression setup
An S-type load cell can measure axial force in either direction when the fixture applies force through the intended threaded/load points. In tension, eye bolts or aligned adapters can place the sensor in a pull path. In compression, the fixture must push axially without bending the beam or letting attachments buckle. Do not clamp the load-cell body or use it as a structural stop. Side load, torque and off-axis contact can create reading error and sensor damage even when the displayed force is below 500 lb.
Peak Hold and data output
Peak Hold is useful when the highest force occurs briefly—for example at breakaway, during a pull cycle, or as a spring reaches a target compression. Verify static calibration before using Peak Hold to make decisions. Dynamic peaks can be affected by loading rate and sample/hold behavior. MNM also lists RS-232 output, which may support a printer, PC or other serial workflow when the correct cable, format and receiving software are matched to the indicator. Ask MNM to identify the shipped indicator if communication settings are important.
Setup and calibration
Install the sensor in a straight load path, secure the indicator, inspect connectors and verify a stable unloaded reading. Because MNM does not name the exact indicator model on this page, do not assume an OP-901 or LP7515 service-menu sequence. For calibration, unload the system fully, establish mechanical zero, use the correct indicator manual to perform zero calibration, then apply a traceable known force and perform span calibration. Verify several loads and both loading directions if your fixture will use tension and compression. Recalibrate after load-cell replacement or a major fixture change.
Maintenance and troubleshooting
Keep the cable away from moving fixtures and sharp edges. Inspect eye bolts/adapters for looseness and thread damage. If zero drifts, remove all force and check fixture preload or binding. If readings change when the cable moves, inspect the connector and conductors. If tension and compression results disagree, look for backlash or different load paths. If Peak Hold seems too high, reduce shock loading and compare against a slow static test. If the scale is stable but proportionally wrong, verify units, gravity settings and span calibration before replacing the load cell.
Related 500 lb x 0.1 lb guides
Read the calibration guide, the spring/cable/actuator application guide and the bench test-stand and pull-force guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can it measure both pulling and pushing force? MNM lists tension and compression. Does it have Peak Hold? Yes. Is it calibrated? The product is sold as calibrated and ready to use. What is the capacity/readability? 500 lb x 0.1 lb. Does it have serial output? MNM lists RS-232. Does it include eye bolts? Two are listed. Is the exact indicator calibration menu known? Not from this listing; identify the shipped indicator before using service-menu instructions. Is the representative image the exact capacity marking? MNM itself notes that the pictured product image is general, so capacity should be verified from the product title, label and order documentation.
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