A digital force gauge, often called a push pull force gauge or tension and compression force gauge, is used in material testing, quality control and assurance, research, development, product testing, laboratory and educational applications. PCE Instruments' (PCE) digital force gauge products are the benchmark of quality and performance. PCE digital force gauge devices provide measurements in kilograms (kg), grams (g), ounces (oz), pounds (lbs) and Newtons (N) of force (f), depending on the force gauge model. Most PCE digital force gauge products are handheld, portable devices that also can be used with a universal test stand. There are several different force gauge products available online in the PCE web shop.
A force gauge with a capacity up to 1000 g typically has a clamp attachment to support the load, while a force gauge with a capacity up to 50 kg typically has a hook attachment. Most force measuring devices with capacities up to 100 kg and beyond have heavy-duty carabiner-style attachments as load supports. When using a force gauge, measuring with a compression kit can quickly and easily convert a tension meter into a compression meter.
At PCE, we offer mechanical force gauge products as well as digital force gauge devices. Most digital force gauge devices are available with RS-232 or USB ports or interfaces. Optional software allows for data to be transferred to a computer for analysis.
Why measure force? Manufacturers strive to optimize their materials, products and processes to achieve maximum performance and safety with minimal cost. To find the right manufacturing mix, many manufacturers put their materials and products to the test. This kind of testing often involves the use of a force gauge to determine under what conditions a material, component or product could break or become loose. A force gauge can be used to identify the amount of Newtons necessary to a open door, turn a handle or push down a vehicle's brake pedal. Force gauges can measure tension forces used to destroy metal pipes or wires. Force gauges even can be used to evaluate how compression forces affect car seats during an automobile accident.
Check out our free force gauge unit converter here. Our handy force gauge unit converter enables you to convert the measurement data you have collected into units such as ponds (p), Newtons (N), kiloponds (kp) or kilograms-force (kgf), kilonewtons (kN), dynes (dyn), poundals (pdl), ounces-force (ozf) and pounds-force (lbf).