HBM to Launch New Force Washers KMRplus

Darmstadt– HBM is introducing its new KMRplus force washer that efficiently solves force measurement tasks in production environments and is particularly suitable for monitoring tasks. It also assists in reliably performing countless measurement tasks in the development process and component testing.

Contrary to common force washers using piezo crystals, KMRplus is built based on strain gauges (SG). This makes it drift-free and optimally suited for long-term monitoring tasks where zeroing is not possible in the application, such as monitoring bolted connections at wind turbines or in track construction.

The force washer is hermetically sealed, has a specially designed cable entry, and is fitted with water-resistant cables. The force transducer thus meets the requirements of the IP68 degree of protection and is suitable for outdoor use or use in climatic chambers. Additionally, both the cable and force washer are resistant to numerous problematic consumables, such as oils, which makes the sensor at home in the production environment.

In order to make it easier for the user to integrate the sensor, it can be ordered with different cable lengths of up to 12 m. Plug assembly at the HBM plant is also offered, which eliminates the need for error-prone cable extensions or soldering work on site.

KMRplus is available with 11 different capacities ranging from 20 kN to 2 MN, with the central hole being designed for thread sizes from M6 to M42. In order to guarantee uniform loading of the force washer and thus excellent repeatability even under unfavorable mounting conditions, two hardened and precisely manufactured force induction washers are included in the scope of delivery.

Besides the new KMRplus sensors based on strain gauges, HBM also offers a wide range of piezoelectric force washers.

About HBM Test and Measurement

Hottinger Baldwin Messtechnik GmbH (HBM Test and Measurement, founded in Germany in 1950) is today the technology and market leader in the field of test and measurement. HBM’s product range comprises solutions for the entire measurement chain, from virtual to physical testing. The company has production facilities in Germany, USA, China, and Portugal and is represented in over 80 countries worldwide.

About HBK – Hottinger, Brüel & Kjær

HBK – Hottinger, Brüel & Kjær, home to the HBM Test and Measurement and Brüel & Kjær Sound and Vibration brands, is a subsidiary of UK-based Spectris plc, which has annual sales of £1,5 bn and employs approximately 9800 people worldwide.