Load Requirements
The selection of a load cell is the first step in preparing
for a tension or compression test. If the approximate ten-
sile (or compressive) strength of the specimen is known,
the choice of load cell is simplified. If the tensile
strength of the material is not known, refer to a Proper-
ties of Materials handbook to obtain a close figure.
To calculate the tensile strength in force units for a speci-
men, multiply its tensile strength by its cross-sectional
area. For example:
psi x in
2
= lbf (pounds-force)
kg/m
2
x m
2
= kgf (kilograms-force)
Pascals x m
2
= newtons
EXAMPLE:
Specimen geometry: standard ASTM tensile.
Material: Lexan
Tensile strength: 5200 psi (from a materials handbook)
Specimen area: 0.502 in. wide x 0.125 in. thk = 0.063 in.
Tensile strength = 5200 psi x 0.063 in. = 328 lbf
Therefore, in this example, the 5 kN (1000 lb, 500 kg)
capacity load cell should be installed.
If an approximate value of tensile strength cannot be ob-
tained, then always use the highest capacity load cell in-
itially and perform a preliminary test at a slow speed to
determine the load range required.
Load Requirements M10-94400-1
A-4
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