Load pins are load cells used in overhead weighing applications.
A load pin is a type of load cell that can be used as direct replacements for clevis, sheave, pivot, normal shaft or equalizer pins. Load pins are reliable, easy-to-install overhead weighing solutions, many of which have capacities over 500,000 pounds.
Made from stainless steel, load pins are strong and corrosion-resistant. Because the strain gauges are completely internal, load pins can successfully be used in a variety of applications, including marine operations.
How do load pins work?
Load pins have a bored center, which contains internal, force measuring strain gauges. Like other load sensors, these strain gauges measure the change in the electrical signal caused by force being applied in a specific direction. This change in electrical signal is then converted to a weight measurement. Load pins are designed to be permanently installed in a sheave, pulley or crane system, meaning they can be used to consistently monitor vertical or horizontal tension.
The exterior circumference of a load pin has two grooves to define the area of the pin between the measured forces. The lug or sheave applies force in one direction on the middle section of the pin, while the fixed support applies pressure in the opposite direction. This is the force, or tension being measured by the load pin strain gauges.
Integrated overhead weighing solutions like load pins provide overload protection without impacting the headroom of an application. Load monitoring with an integrated load pin also helps promote safety and prevent costly overload damage to overhead equipment.
Where are load pins used?
Integrated load pins can be used with almost any application with a repeatable load path including:
Cranes (mobile, bridge, jib, gantry and straddle)
Winches
Elevators
Hoisting gear
Sheaves
Shackles
Bearing blocks
Pivots
A wide range of industries benefit from integrated overhead weighing solutions, including agriculture, chemical processing, energy production, marine cargo and port shipping operations.