Hollow load cell

A Kingmach hollow load cell is built around a central hole that accommodates anchor bolts, rock bolts, cable stays, or tiebacks—any application where a tension member needs to pass through the sensor. The sensing element is a set of strain gauges bonded inside a robust stainless steel ring, sealed against moisture and dust to typical IP67 or IP68 levels depending on the model. This direct force path means the sensor reads the load right at the bearing plate, without dealing with offset or bending effects that can creep into hydraulic or external systems. Available in capacities from 100 kN up to a few thousand kilonewtons, with custom ranges always an option. Output choices include standard mV/V for data loggers, 4-20 mA for industrial PLCs, or RS485 digital output when you need to daisy-chain multiple cells along a tunnel lining or viaduct. Temperature compensation keeps the zero shift small across the typical -20°C to +70°C operating range, which matters when the sensor sits in a concrete structure that heats up during curing or cools overnight. Many of these cells are used in pairs or arrays to monitor distributed anchor forces, and Kingmach can match the outputs so you get a consistent reading across all sensors. For monitoring companies and consulting engineers, we provide calibration certificates traceable to national standards, and our technical team walks you through wiring, mounting, and data interpretation—especially helpful when a cell gets embedded in a pile test or a permanent dam monitoring scheme. Global shipping and after-sales support are part of how we work, and we hold stock of common sizes to cut down lead times if you’re running against a construction schedule.