MNM Scales 100 lb Load Cell for Actuator, Packaging & Pull-Force Testing
- pete8781
- Jul 29
- 3 min read
Need help choosing a fixture for actuator or packaging pull-force testing? Call MNM Scales at (832) 290-3120 or email mnmscales@yahoo.com.
MNM Scales 100 lb Load Cell for Actuator, Packaging & Pull-Force Testing
The MNM Scales 100 lb load cell for actuator, packaging and pull-force testing gives small-machine builders, product developers, quality teams and repair shops a practical way to measure force instead of estimating it from motor current, hand feel or component ratings. The 0.02 lb displayed increment is fine enough for many light mechanical tests, while Peak Hold makes short-duration maximums easier to capture.
Measure Small Actuator Thrust Directly
A linear actuator can be rated for a nominal thrust, but actual force depends on supply voltage, speed, mechanical efficiency, stroke position and the load path. Placing an S-beam load cell inline in a controlled fixture lets you observe the force transmitted to the test point. This is useful for actuator selection, comparing units, verifying a repaired mechanism, or measuring the force required to operate a linkage.
Packaging, Handle and Closure Testing
Product and packaging teams often need to answer practical questions: How much force opens this closure? How hard must a customer pull a tab? Does a handle stay within a target pull force? How much force separates two assembled pieces? A bench fixture with a load cell can turn those subjective questions into repeatable numbers. The same system can support comparative tests on caps, closures, seals, handles, tabs, clips and small containers within the 100 lb range.
Breakaway Force vs. Running Force
Many mechanisms have a high initial breakaway force followed by a lower running force. Drawer slides, seals, bushings, latches and guided assemblies are common examples. Peak Hold is useful for the initial maximum, while the live display can be used to observe the lower steady force after movement begins. If you need a full force-versus-time curve, use the RS-232 output with compatible data collection rather than relying only on Peak Hold.
Fixture Design Is the Difference Between Data and Noise
Keep the S-beam aligned with the direction of force and allow attachments to self-center. A crooked fixture can add bending or friction that the product itself does not create. For packaging work, make sure the grip does not cut or deform the sample in a way that changes the failure mode. For actuator testing, make the frame substantially stiffer than the expected load so frame deflection does not change geometry during the test.
Useful Test Metrics
Maximum force or Peak Hold value.
Breakaway force at the start of motion.
Steady running force after movement begins.
Force at a defined actuator stroke or product displacement.
Repeatability across multiple units or production samples.
Calibration Before a Production Test Series
Before collecting a large set of results, verify zero and at least one known force point. If your acceptance limit is near a specific force, verify near that region as well. This helps separate product variation from measurement-system drift.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you measure actuator thrust?
Place the load cell inline between the actuator and a rigid reaction fixture so the actuator’s axial force passes through the sensor. Control speed, stroke and power conditions if you are comparing tests.
Can it measure a package handle pull force?
Yes. Use a grip or hook that loads the handle in the same direction every time, then record the peak or force at a defined displacement.
Does Peak Hold replace data logging?
No. Peak Hold is ideal for one maximum value. Use a logging workflow when you need the full force profile over time or displacement.
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