MNM MS-1-20K 20,000 lb S-Type Load Cell Guide: 3 mV/V, Wiring & Specs
- pete8781
- Jul 29
- 2 min read
For replacement matching, indicator compatibility or application help, call MNM Scales at (832) 290-3120 or email mnmscales@yahoo.com.
The MNM MS-1-20K 20,000 lb S-type load cell is a bare alloy-steel tension/compression transducer for crane-scale builds, force-test fixtures, replacement repairs and OEM weighing systems. Unlike a complete calibrated scale package, the MS-1-20K is the sensing element itself, so buyers need to match its electrical output, bridge resistance, mechanical connections and capacity to the indicator and fixture.
Published MS-1-20K Specifications
MNM publishes rated output at 3.00 ± 0.01 mV/V, nonlinearity ±0.02% full scale, hysteresis ±0.02% FS, repeatability ±0.01% FS, 30-minute creep ±0.02% FS and zero balance ±1% FS. Input resistance is 385 ± 15 ohms and output resistance is 350 ± 5 ohms. Insulation resistance is at least 5000 megohms and excitation is specified at 10 V DC/AC.
The compensated temperature range is -10°C to 50°C and the operating range is -20°C to 60°C. Published safe overload is 120% of full scale. The supplied cable is listed at 20 ft. Safe overload is a sensor-protection specification, not an expanded normal measurement range; engineered operation should remain within the rated 20,000 lb capacity.
MS-1-20K Four-Wire Color Code
MNM publishes red as +input/excitation, black as -input/excitation, green as +output/signal and white as -output/signal. Before connecting a replacement cell, compare the indicator terminal labels rather than assuming every manufacturer uses the same wire colors. If extending cable, preserve shielding and use a method appropriate for low-level millivolt signals.
What 3 mV/V Means
A rated output near 3 mV/V means the load cell produces roughly 3 millivolts of signal per volt of excitation at rated full load. With 10 V excitation, that corresponds to roughly 30 mV at full-scale output, subject to the rated-output tolerance and actual system conditions. The indicator must accept strain-gauge bridge signals and be calibrated for the installed cell and mechanical system.
Indicator Compatibility Checklist
Check that the indicator supports a 350-ohm-class bridge, provides suitable excitation, accepts the expected mV/V signal, has enough sensitivity for the desired divisions, and can be calibrated to 20,000 lb. Also confirm connector style, cable wiring and whether the application needs Peak Hold, RS-232 or other functions. Mechanical compatibility matters too: capacity alone does not confirm thread size or overall dimensions.
Applications
The MS-1-20K can be integrated into hanging scales, pull-test fixtures, tension/compression test stands, machinery-force measurement, cable/chain test rigs and custom OEM systems. S-beams are most effective when the load is axial and the fixture minimizes bending and torsion.
FAQ
Is the bare MS-1-20K calibrated to my indicator?
A replacement transducer still needs system calibration with the actual indicator and fixture unless it is sold as part of a pre-calibrated matched package.
Can it measure both tension and compression?
Yes, the S-type geometry is used for both directions when mounted in a fixture that applies axial force correctly.
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