The strain gauge technology is the most commonly used technology for measuring load in the market, but BoltSafe sensors use a different technology. Contrary to strain gauge load cells, our sensors use magnetoelastic technology, which means they measure the changes in the magnetic field. Because of this, the BoltSafe sensors have a low clearance and are thus more compact. They are also less expensive than comparable sensors. Our load cells are specially designed for measuring and monitoring the bolt load in bolted joints. With this information, safety is enhanced, joints are more dependable and better control over the bolted construction is assured.
BoltSafe load cells are used as washers and are placed on the non-driven side of a bolted connection, preferably under a nut. When the bolt is being tightened, minor deformations on the washer occur because of the applied force. These deformations cause changes in the electrical resistance, which are then measured by our sensor. This is the main difference with the technology of the strain gauge load cells. We use this acquired data to determine the bolt load at any given moment.