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    Pancake Load Cell | Low Profile Force Sensor | DSCC

    Low Profile, Adaptable and Accurate, with a High Frequency Response
    DSCC Pancake Load Cell no Load Button
    Pancake load cell with optional load button
    DSCC Pancake Load Cell with Base and Rod Ends 3D CAD Screenshot
    DSCC Pancake Load Cell with Load Button 3D CAD Screenshot
    DSCC Pancake Load Cell with Single Rod End 3D CAD Screenshot
    DSCC Pancake Load Cell with Cable Gland for Standard Connector
    Pancake Load Cell on Ankle Joint of Mantis Robot
    Pancake load cell infographic installation guide on how to install an pancake load cell
    Custom Pancake Load Cell 0-2000kN
    360° View Videovideo/mp4
    3D
    Lead Time
    5kN to 200kN: Stock
    250kN: 2 weeks (not DSCC8)
    Over 250kN: 10 weeks
    Prices From
    £608
    (excl. VAT)
    Customizable
    Quantity, OEM & educational discounts
    3D CAD models available

    At a Glance

    • Capacities: 0-5kN up to 0-1000kN
    • Output: 2mV/V
    • High-Frequency Response
    • High Accuracy: <±0.05%/RC
    • Options:
      • Fatigue-Rated Versions
      • IP67 Rated Versions
      • IP68 Submersible Versions
    • Low Profile to Easily Fit Where Space is Limited
    • Perfect for both Weighing and Force Measuring
    • Ideal for Crash Test Walls
    • High-Frequency Response
    • Fully Submersible Marine and Underwater Versions Available
    • Immersible Versions for Humid or Flood Risk Environments
    • Customisation Available to Suit your Specific Application

    Description

    The DSCC pancake load cell / low profile load cell by Applied Measurements is manufactured in stainless steel and is suitable for use in weighing and force measurement applications.  Our pancake load cells are available to buy online with capacities 0-200kN in stock.

    The DSCC can operate in both tension and compression and are commonly used in materials testing and component fatigue testing applications for axial force measurements where a high accuracy, low-profile device is required.

    The high-frequency response of the DSCC pancake load cells also makes them ideal for dynamic force and load measurement applications such as crash test walls.  The high-speed analogue SGA amplifier is an ideal complement to the DSCC pancake load cell, offering a conditioned signal output of 4-20mA, ±5Vdc or ±10Vdc with a bandwidth of up to 6kHz.

    Thanks to the pancake load cell’s dual-diaphragm design and central threaded through-hole, it is largely insensitive to bending, off-axis, bending, side-load/shear loads and torsion.

    As with all Applied Measurements pancake load cell designs, the DSCC low profile load cell can be modified to suit your specific requirements, with alternative threads, custom dimensions, counter-bored mounting holes and higher capacities in excess of 3000kN possible.

    Plus, for harsh, wet or humid environments we can make gel-filled pancake load cells rated to IP67.  IP68 immersion versions are suitable for complete submersion and can also be offered on request.  See Applied Measurements IP ratings guide for more details.

    Our DSCC pancake load cell can be supplied with a BS EN ISO 376 calibration certificate for use as a reference standard.

    If you require a pancake load cell with a rated capacity below 5kN for low-range measurements, the DSCRC low profile load cell covers forces from 0-200N up to 0-2kN.

    Our pancake load cell can be provided with Load Cell Instrumentation many of which are available to buy in our online shop.

    Technical Specifications

    Rated Capacity (RC)kN0-5, 0-10, 0-25, 0-50, 0-100, 0-200, 0-250, 0-300, 0-500, 0-750, 0-1000
    Operating ModesTension/Compression / Tension & Compression
    Sensitivity (RO)mV/V2.0 (up to 200kN) / 2.7 nominal (250kN upwards)
    Zero Balance/Offset±%/Rated Output<1.0
    Output Symmetry (tension vs. compression)%/Rated Load<0.25 (0.8 typical on Ø155 250kN)
    Non-Linearity±%/Rated Output (BFSL)<0.05 (<0.03 typical)
    Hysteresis±%/Rated Output<0.05 (<0.03 typical)
    Repeatability±%/Rated Output<0.05 (<0.03 typical)
    Temperature Effect on Zero±%/Rated Capacity/ ˚C<0.005
    Temperature Effect on Sensitivity±%/Applied Load/ ˚C<0.005
    Effect of Eccentricity%/Applied Load/25mm<±0.25 typical
    Effect of Side Load%0.25 typical
    Bridge ResistanceOhmsSee dimension table
    Insulation ResistanceMegohms @ 50 Vdc>5000
    Excitation VoltageVolts AC or DC10 recommended (2-15 acceptable)
    Operating Temperature Range˚C-20 to +80
    Compensated Temperature Range˚C0 to +70
    Storage Temperature Range˚C-20 to +80
    Safe Overload% of Rated Capacity150
    Ultimate Overload% of Rated Capacity>250
    Maximum Safe Side Load ** (Fx or Fy)% of Rated Capacity40
    Maximum Safe Torque/Bending Moment(Mx, My or Mz) **See dimensions table
    Deflection @ Rated Capacitymm (nominal) at Rated Load0.05 (>50kN) / 0.1 (100-250kN) / 0.13 (300-1000kN)
    IP Rating (Environmental Protection)IP65
    Cable Length (as standard)metres3
    Cable TypeSingle Bridge Versions6-Pin Amphenol Connector + Mating Cable Assembly (4-core screened cable, PUR sheath, Ø5)
    Dual Bridge Versions8-Pin M12 x 1 Connector + Mating Cable Assembly, (8-core screened cable, PUR sheath, Ø^)
    ConstructionStainless Steel
    Resolution1 part in 250,000 (with appropriate instrumentation)
    Fatigue LifeFully Reversed CyclesStandard Versions: 30-50 million typical
    Fatigue-Rated Versions: 500 million
    Versions rated to 1 billion+ on request
    *The resonant frequency is calculated with the body of the load cell attached to a large plate, ensuring that only the sensing element oscillates: This is vital to achieve the highest natural frequency and subsequent frequency response.
    **Extraneous load ratings (Fx, Fy, Mx, My, Mz) are based on application of only one at any time in addition to force in the primary measurement axis (Fz). Contact our engineering department if multi extraneous loads will occur simultaneously.
    CORE PRODUCT REFCAPACITY (kN)Bridge Resistance (ohms, nominal)Deflection at RC (mm, nominal)Resonant Frequency (kHz)Extraneous Load Limit (Mx, My or Mz) (Nm)Weight (kg no base)Weight (kg with base)
    DSCC0-5, 0-10, 0-25, 0-507000.055kN=3.5301.53.7
    10kN=4.560
    25kN=6.5150
    50kN=7.2300
    DSCC0-100, 0-200, 0-25010500.1100kN=6.58453.99.1
    200kN=7.81690
    250kN=8.72000
    DSCC80-250, 0-300, 0-50014000.1250kN=915001124
    300kN=9.31800
    500kN=103000
    DSCC0-300, 0-500, 0-750, 0-10003500.13300kN=8.7203025.565
    500kN=8.93390
    1000kN=9.06780

    Product Dimensions

    DSCC Compression Load Cell Outline
    Core Product RefCAPACITY (kN)ØA (Size)BCØDØEThread FØGN holesHJ
    DSCC0-5, 0-10, 0-25, 0-501072338.533M20 x 2.5908352
    DSCC0-100, 0-200, 0-2501553451160M36 x 213012452
    DSCC80-250, 0-300, 0-50020225212.295.5M56x416516502
    DSCC0-300, 0-500, 0-750, 0-100027867817118M64 x 6*23016844
    *If you require rod end bearings please request an M64 x 4 thread. Note that the maximum rated safe static load on this size rod end is 689kN.

    All dimensions are in mm

    Wiring Details (Single Bridge Version)

    WireConnector PinDesignation
    RedPin A+ve excitation
    BluePin B-ve excitation
    GreenPin C+ve signal (compression)
    YellowPin D-ve signal
    ScreenN/CTo ground - not connected to load cell body

    Wiring Details (Dual Bridge Version)

    WireConnector PinDesignation
    RedPin 8+ve excitation (bridge A)
    BluePin 7-ve excitation (bridge A)
    GreenPin 3+ve signal (compression) (bridge A)
    YellowPin 4-ve signal (bridge A)
    BrownPin 2+ve excitation (bridge B)
    WhitePin 1-ve excitation (bridge B)
    PinkPin 6+ve signal (compression) (bridge B)
    GreyPin 5-ve signal (compression)
    ScreenN/CTo ground - not connected to load cell body

    Ordering Codes & Options

    Core ProductCapacity (inc Engineering Units)Cable Length (m)Specials CodeExample Result
    DSCC5kN003000DSCC-5kN-003-000
    DSCC10kN003000DSCC-10kN-003-000
    DSCC25kN003000DSCC-25kN-003-000
    DSCC50kN003000DSCC-50kN-003-000
    DSCC100kN003000DSCC-100kN-003-000
    DSCC200kN003000DSCC-200kN-003-000
    DSCC250kN003000DSCC-250kN-003-000
    DSCC300kN003000DSCC-300kN-003-000
    DSCC500kN003000DSCC-500kN-003-000
    DSCC750kN003000DSCC-750kN-003-000
    DSCC1000kN003000DSCC-1000kN-003-000
    DSCC8250kN003000DSCC8-250kN-003-000
    DSCC8300kN003000DSCC8-300kN-003-000
    DSCC8500kN003000DSCC8-500kN-003-000
    Other Specials CodeDetails
    029Fatigue rated to 500 million cycles
    033Mounting base fitted
    061Fatigue rated to 500 million cycles + mounting base fitted
    088Dual strain gauge bridges + fatigue rated to 500 million cycles
    126Dual strain gauge bridges
    127Dual strain gauge bridges + mounting base fitted
    128Dual strain gauge bridge + mounting base + fatigue rated to 500 million cycles

    How to Install a Pancake Load Cell Guide

    Our Applied Measurements experts have put together a 5-step guide to demonstrate how to correctly install a pancake load cell.

    Step 1 – Keep the Forces Centrally Aligned

    To reduce any off-axis loading, forces must be centrally aligned through the centre of the pancake load cell.  We can supply optional load buttons and rod ends which work to reduce any side loading.

    Step 2 – Do Not Overtighten the Rod Ends and Load Buttons

    When using rod ends and load buttons be sure not to overtighten them when attaching them to the pancake load cell.  As this can cause damage to the load cell.

    Step 3 – Always Leave a Gap

    Ensure that the threads of rod ends or load buttons do not exceed the length of the internal thread in the load cell or mounting base. If a gap is not maintained, the sensing section of the load cell will not be able to move freely when tensile or compressive force is applied, leading to erroneous readings and potential damage.

    Step 4 – Mount on a Flat Surface

    Always secure the pancake load cell to a clean, flat surface of better than 0.005mm surface flatness.

    Step 5 – Contact with Loading Area Only

    When installing the pancake load cell ensure the load is applied to the loading area only.

    Pancake load cell infographic installation guide on how to install an pancake load cell
    Graphic by Wendy Jeffery

    Mounting and Installation Accessories

    Load Buttons and Rod End Bearings

    Designed to align forces through the principal axis of the load cell thus reducing the effects of extraneous forces, hence offering improved performance from the cell.

    Load buttons are used where compressive forces are applied.
    Rod End Bearings are used where tensile forces are being applied.

    Load Buttons for Compressive Use

    Load Button Diagram
    THREAD TM20 x 2.5M36 x 2M56 x 4M64 x 6
    D336095.5118
    H14254050
    L26405065
    R200200300400

    Rod End Bearings for Tension Use

    Maintenance-free rod ends are a complete units made up of a housing with both an integral shank (with an internal or external thread) and a maintenance-free spherical plain bearing, located within the housing.

    MMC Male Thread Rod End

    Rod End Series K – Maintenance Free – Series GAXSW – DSCC up to 200kN

    For use at high tension loads up to 230kN. Consult sales for rod-end to suit DSCC-250kN.

    Rod ends with male thread made from heat-treated steel, zinc plated with PTFE liner, maintenance free.

    Rod End Bearing GAXSW
    Rod End Bearing GAXSW
    Load CellOrdering CodeDBMAFLOGGLStatic Load C 0 kNDynamic Load C kNLimiting Speed rev/min *Weight g
    DSCC-5kN to 50kNGAXSW20x2.5202518507810324.3M20x2.54793.578190348
    DSCC-100kN to 200kNGAXSW353543288012516537.7M36x2732302051101600
    For DSCC-250kN consult sales.
    Materials:
    HousingHeat-treated steel to 42CrMo4, Aisi 4140, forged.
    InsertFree-cutting steel to 9SMnPb28K, 12L13, with PTFE liner bonded to the inner surface.
    BallBearing steel to 100Cr6, Aisi 52100, hardened, ground, polished.

    Rod End Series GAR..UK-2RS – DSCC up to 1000kN (689kN max load*)

    *Consult sales for rod-ends to suit forces over 689kN.

    • Maintenance-free
    • ISO 12 240-4, dimension series E, type M
    • Sliding contact surface: hard chromium/PTFE
    • Sliding material: Elgoglide®

    GAR..UK-2RS
    (right hand thread)

    • To ISO 12 240-4, dimension series E, type M
    • Shank with external thread
    • Suffix -2RS: lip seals on both sides, for operating temperatures from -30°C to +130°C
    GAR UK rod ends
    Rod End Bearings GAR UK 2RS
    LOAD CELLSHAFT DIAMETERDESIGNATIONMASSDIMENSIONS
    dWITHOUT SEALSWITH SEALS≈ kgdDBdKd1d2d3
    DSCC-300kN to 1000kN80-GAR 80 UK-2RS1280-0.01512055-0.1510589.4180M64 x 6
    DSCC8 0-250, 0-300, 0-500kN70-GAR70-UK-2RS8.280-0.01510549-0.159277.8160M56 x 4
    LOAD CELLDegreesChamfer DimensionBasic Load Ratings 2)Radial Internal ClearanceShaft Diameter
    hC1αl1l2l7r1s min.dyn. Cr Nstat. C0r Nd
    DSCC-300kN to 1000kN27047614036010011 125 000689 0000 - 0.07280
    DSCC8 0-250, 0-300, 0-500kN235426125315871885 000564 0000 - 0.07270

    Downloads

    CAD Model Files

    Our 3D models are provided in STEP format and can be viewed using FreeCAD. Other formats can be provided on request.

    The .zip file below contains a separate model for each product variant.

    Instant Price & Part Code Builder

    You can now buy this product in our online shop. Alternatively, you can find the ordering code, price* and lead time below.

    • Product Details

    • Price*
    • Lead Time
    • Part Code

    *Please note: The prices shown are valid in the UK only and do not include carriage charges. For overseas pricing please contact a member of our sales team or your local distributor.

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