MNM Scales 100 lb x 0.02 lb Tension/Compression Scale Guide: Peak Hold, RS-232 & Full Setup
- pete8781
- Jul 29
- 4 min read
Need more details or help choosing the correct force-measurement setup? Call MNM Scales at (832) 290-3120 or email mnmscales@yahoo.com.
MNM Scales 100 lb x 0.02 lb Tension/Compression Scale Guide
The MNM Scales 100 lb x 0.02 lb tension/compression scale is a compact force-measurement system for users who need substantially finer resolution than a typical heavy industrial crane scale. With a 100 lb capacity, 0.02 lb displayed readability, an S-type load cell and a digital indicator with Peak Hold, this system fits spring testing, cable tension work, small actuator tests, component pull checks, packaging test fixtures, light suspended-load measurement and many custom bench-force applications.
MNM lists the system as calibrated and ready to use out of the box. The package includes an alloy-steel S-type load cell, digital indicator, two eye bolts, power supply and rechargeable power. The indicator listing includes zero, gross/net, accumulation, printing, counting, check weighing and auto-hold functions, lb/kg selection, RS-232 output, gravity adjustment, and support for multiple 350-ohm load cells.
Specifications at a Glance
Specification | Published value / feature |
Capacity | 100 lb |
Readability | 0.02 lb |
Sensor type | Alloy-steel S-type load cell; tension and compression |
Peak capture | Peak Hold / Auto Hold functions listed |
Communications | RS-232 output |
Power | Power supply plus rechargeable battery |
Why 0.02 lb Readability Matters
At a 100 lb full-scale capacity, 0.02 lb increments make small changes easy to see. That is valuable when comparing springs, measuring breakaway force, checking cable tension changes, evaluating a small actuator, or recording a peak pull. A higher-capacity system may be physically capable of the same task but can hide useful detail if its displayed increments are too coarse for the force changes you are studying.
How the S-Type Load Cell Works
An S-type load cell is a strain-gauge transducer designed to measure force along a primary axis in both tension and compression. In tension, the fixture pulls through the threaded ends; in compression, the fixture pushes through properly aligned adapters. The indicator supplies excitation voltage to the Wheatstone-bridge sensor, measures the resulting millivolt signal and converts it into a displayed force value after calibration.
Best Applications for the 100 lb System
Spring force and spring-rate comparisons in light mechanical assemblies.
Cable, cord, strap and small-chain tension tests in controlled fixtures.
Linear actuator, solenoid, motor linkage and small winch pull-force checks.
Packaging, closure, handle, seal, pull-tab and light component pull tests.
Small production fixtures where a pass/fail force window must be observed.
Light suspended-load and hanging-force measurements within the rated capacity.
Peak Hold for Breakaway and Maximum Force
Many useful force tests are dynamic. The force needed to start a slider moving can be higher than the running force. A spring may reach a maximum at a defined compression point. A pull tab may release quickly. Peak Hold is valuable because it preserves the highest observed reading long enough to record it rather than forcing the operator to watch a rapidly changing display.
Setup: Getting Better Data from a Small Force System
Mount the load cell so the force travels straight through its primary axis.
Use rod ends, clevises, eye bolts or compression adapters appropriate for the direction of force.
Remove preload that is not part of the intended measurement, then zero the indicator.
Apply force smoothly and keep the fixture from twisting the S-beam.
For comparisons, repeat the same loading rate, attachment points and geometry.
RS-232 and Data Collection
The product listing includes RS-232 output, which can be useful when the force value needs to be sent to compatible logging hardware, a terminal or a custom process. For a simple shop-floor test, the local display and Peak Hold may be enough; for engineering comparisons, capturing the reading electronically can make repeated tests easier to organize and review.
Calibration and Verification
MNM sells the system calibrated, but any force system should be verified periodically and after mechanical changes. A useful verification checks unloaded zero, a known reference load, repeatability at the same load, return to zero after unloading and—if Peak Hold is important—the ability to capture a repeatable maximum. The dedicated calibration guide below covers this in more detail.
Common Problems and What to Check
If the reading wanders, first look for mechanical movement, cable stress, vibration and temperature changes before assuming the sensor is bad. If force reads in the wrong direction, check the signal polarity and indicator configuration. If the system does not return to zero, remove binding or preload from the fixture. If repeated tests disagree, inspect alignment and the consistency of the test procedure.
Manuals & Technical Documents
Frequently Asked Questions
Can it measure both tension and compression?
Yes. The S-type load cell geometry supports axial tension and compression when installed in a fixture designed for the selected direction.
Is 0.02 lb the same as accuracy?
The listing describes the system as 100 lb with 0.02 lb accuracy/readability. In practical use, displayed increment, calibration quality, fixture alignment, reference-load uncertainty and environmental conditions all contribute to measurement quality.
Can it test springs?
Yes. S-beam load cells are commonly used in spring testing to measure force at a controlled extension or compression. Pair force readings with displacement if you want to calculate spring rate.
Can it measure actuator thrust?
Yes, if the actuator and fixture stay within the 100 lb capacity and the load cell is aligned with the actuator’s force axis.
Where should I buy the system?
MNM Scales sells the calibrated 100 lb system directly and can answer questions about the current indicator configuration, accessories and intended test setup.
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