MNM Scales 20,000 lb Load Cell for Crane & Hoist Load Testing

pete8781
Jul 29
4 min read

Need more details or help with a crane or hoist measurement application? Call MNM Scales at (832) 290-3120 or email mnmscales@yahoo.com.

The MNM Scales 20,000 lb load cell for crane and hoist load testing is built around the kind of inline tension measurement that makes S-beam sensors valuable for suspended loads. The Crane-20k pairs a 20,000 lb S-type load cell with an LP7515 digital indicator and 1 lb displayed resolution, giving maintenance teams, fabricators and industrial users a direct way to observe the force carried through a controlled suspended-load test path.

20,000 lb S-type load cell system for hoist and crane suspended load measurement

Why S-Type Load Cells Are Used in Crane and Hoist Measurement

A suspended load creates tension through the connection between the lifting machine and the load. S-type load cells are designed to sit inline with that force, using threaded ends and suitable fittings to transfer axial tension through the sensor. Engineering references for crane and hoist weighing commonly identify S-beam load cells and load pins as useful sensor formats because the sensor can be integrated directly into the load path and send a live signal to an indicator.

For a shop or maintenance department, that can support controlled load measurement during equipment evaluation, maintenance checks, fixture testing, material-handling studies and other non-trade test work. The load cell provides the measurement; the crane, hoist, rigging and test procedure still need to meet the applicable engineering, inspection and safety requirements for the facility and jurisdiction.

Key Crane-20k Technical Specifications

The system’s 20,000 lb capacity and 1 lb indication give it a useful range for high-capacity industrial force and suspended-load measurements. The MS-1-20K load cell publishes 3.00 ± 0.01 mV/V rated output, ±0.02% full-scale nonlinearity, ±0.02% full-scale hysteresis and ±0.01% full-scale repeatability. Creep over 30 minutes is specified at ±0.02% full scale. The load cell has 385 ± 15 ohm input resistance, 350 ± 5 ohm output resistance and at least 5000 megaohms insulation resistance.

Temperature compensation is specified from -10°C to 50°C, with an operating range of -20°C to 60°C. The cell’s safe-overload specification is 120% full scale; normal planned measurements should remain within the 20,000 lb system rating. The published cable is 20 feet, with red +input, black -input, green +output and white -output wiring on the MS-1-20K.

Peak Hold Helps Capture Maximum Suspended Force

A hoist does not always apply force perfectly smoothly. Starting, stopping and load movement can create short peaks. Peak Hold on the Crane-20k’s indicator is useful when the maximum observed force matters more than a continuously changing display. Tare and zero functions help establish a clean reference before a test, while the indicator’s RS232 capability can support a more formal data workflow when readings need to be recorded externally.

LP7515 indicator with Peak Hold for crane and hoist load measurement

Mounting and Alignment for Better Crane-Load Data

The sensor should be loaded through its primary axis. Clevises, rod ends or properly selected eye hardware are commonly used to help an inline S-beam stay aligned. Side loading, twisting and bending moments can degrade measurement and create unnecessary mechanical stress. In a controlled test fixture, the goal is to let the load settle naturally into axial tension without forcing the S-beam to act as a structural hinge or side-loaded link.

LP7515 wiring diagram for 20,000 lb crane and hoist load cell system

Where This System Fits in Crane and Hoist Work

Potential uses include controlled suspended-load checks after maintenance, comparing hoist behavior before and after service, measuring a known load during fixture development, monitoring an engineered lifting test stand, studying dynamic peak force, and documenting force during R&D or internal quality-control work. It can also serve as the sensing element in a custom force-measurement setup where a 20,000 lb capacity and local digital display are appropriate.

Important Safety Distinction: Measuring Load vs. Certifying Equipment

A load cell can provide force data, but owning a calibrated sensor does not by itself certify a crane, hoist, sling or rigging assembly. Regulatory proof-load tests and inspection programs may prescribe test loads, procedures, documentation and qualified personnel. Treat the Crane-20k as measurement equipment within a properly engineered process, and keep all hardware and structures within their own rated limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an S-beam load cell measure a suspended crane load?

Yes. S-beam load cells are widely used for inline tension measurement in hanging and crane-scale applications when they are installed with properly rated hardware and good axial alignment.

What is the maximum rated measurement of the Crane-20k?

The complete system is sold as a 20,000 lb x 1 lb system. Tests should be planned within that rated 20,000 lb capacity.

Why use Peak Hold during a hoist test?

Peak Hold captures the highest force reached, making it easier to identify a transient maximum when starting or moving a suspended load.

Can the indicator send data to other equipment?

The MNM listing includes RS232 capability, which can be useful when integrating the indicator into a compatible external recording or control workflow.