BoltSafe bolt load cells are specially designed load sensors that monitor the actual bolt load in bolted joints. Knowing this information enhances safety, makes joints more dependable and results in better control over bolted constructions. The BoltSafe bolt load cell is placed on the non-driven side of a bolted connection, preferably under a nut. While tightening the bolt, force is being applied to the load washer, which will result in minor deformation of the stainless steel washer. The sensor constantly measures changes in electrical resistance caused by these deformations. This data is used to determine the actual bolt load at any given moment.
There are two different BoltSafe bolt load cells available: the standard Continuous Monitoring System, (CMS) and the CMS-NC. With the second one it is possible to disconnect the cable in situations where continuous monitoring is required and a permanent cable is not an option, for instance when there is a risk of damaging the permanent cable or when there is no place for an IoT-node. These are both available in two kinds of steel: our regular stainless steel, and a stronger version that can withstand 15% more load while keeping the same compact dimensions. Various readout methods are available to monitor the bolt load data.