What is a Loading Pin?

A loading pin is a type of load cell employed in many different applications, often installed into machines as a replacement for pivot pins, normal shafts, or clevises. It works by sensing the force that is applied to it, via a strain gauge which is placed in the center of the loading pin.

The outer circumference of the loading pin has two grooves that define the shear planes, which is the area between the measured forces. To provide the total load, loading pins output a signal that is equal to the force applied.

Loading Pin Advantages

Loading pins are considered one of the easiest and reliable products to measure loads in various applications. This is due to the fact that they can withstand hazardous elements and operate in some of the worlds most extreme environments, including offshore.

They are waterproof as the instrumented area of the loading pin is completely covered within a central bore, allowing them to operate successfully underwater.

Loading pins are also available in a large range of load ratings and sizes, providing customers with a lot of choices to ensure they find a loading pin suitable for their application.

Loading Pin Applications

Loading pins are used in a variety of industries including oil and gas, agricultural, chemical, and aviation.

The versatility of loading pins allows their adoption in a range of applications, typical uses include cranes, winches, elevators, and hoisting gear.

Loading Pins from HBM

HBM is a global leader in strain gauge based measurement and transducers, and we supply a large range of loading pins for your applications.

Our typical loading pins have a rated capacity from 0.25 to 100 tons, and their accuracy is to 0.5%. The overload level is 150% of the rated capacity, and the ultimate breaking load is > 300% of the rated capacity.

The pins are temperature compensated and are made of stainless steel that is highly corrosion resistant. The rugged construction of our loading pins makes them maintenance free and perfect for use in extreme conditions. The output signals used are mV/V, 4 – 20 mA, 0 – 5 V DC.

In addition to our standard range, we also produce custom loading pins made to exact specifications. We are able to completely customise the design of the loading pin and include special electrical connections if required. Signal conditioning is integral to the design of our custom loading pins, and we also include IP 68 protection class and a supply of anti-rotation keeper plates as additional options.

If you would like any more information about HBM’s range of loading pins, please contact us and a member of our team will be happy to help.