Floating Running Line Tensiometer

Floating Running Line Tensiometer

This Running Line Tensiometer is ideal for applications involving a moving wire rope of diameter 0.5 to 1.5in and a rope tension up to 100,000 lbs. The scale rides on the rope and determines cable tension by measuring the force of small deflections from its rollers. Common applications include crane boom, cable ferry, and line tension measurement.

Highlights

  • This is a Running Line Tensiometer that allows wire rope to move through it without interference
  • Used in tension applications where a dead end is not available for load measurement
  • It does not use up crane head space
  • Handles load capacities for wire rope sizes specified
  • Digital display options
  • Wireless options to hand held display, PC or 4-20mA PLC interface

Product Details

Running Line Tensiometer

If you have a wire rope with no dead end for load measurement, then the Running Line Tensiometer may be the answer. The Running Line Tensiometer rides on the rope via rollers and its roller configuration causes a slight deflection in the rope. As rope tension changes, the force applied to the load cell changes and weight data is displayed on a digital indicator. A properly installed Floater does not affect or interfere with spooling.

The Running Line Tensiometer arm is anchored at one end to a fixed, solid point (e.g., a boom). The anchor point locks the Running Line Tensiometer so it will not move with the wire rope and cause safety problems. Between the anchor point and the Running Line Tensiometer body is an arm equipped with two “U” joints. The “U” joints allow the Running Line Tensiometer to move freely in all directions and therefore does not affect wire rope spooling. This structure creates the ultimate in wire rope mobility and operator safety.

Although the Running Line Tensiometer converts rope tension to a weight display, the system should be considered a safety device rather than a scale. Accuracy can be dependent on many site specific factors so field calibration must be performed. Based on these considerations, the Running Line Tensiometer is often used in applications such as vehicle mounted cranes and stationary equipment “lifts” in mines. Models vary based on rope size:

  • ½” to ¾” wire rope model
  • ¾” to 1¼” wire rope model
  • 1¼ to 1½” wire rope model

The Running Line Tensiometer is designed for rope tensions up to 100,000 lbs.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

WIRED (HARD CONNECT)

Tension measurement can be displayed by an indicator via wired connection (see wired digital indicator). The cable connection between the Running Line Tensiometer and display can be a seal-over hard connect. This is suitable for installations where the Running Line Tensiometer is not expected to be disconnected from the indicator. Standard cable length is 60 ft but custom lengths can be provided as well.

WIRED (MILITARY CONNECT)

External indicators can also be connected to the Running Line Tensiometer via 4-pin military style quick-disconnects. This allows for easy disconnection and reconnection from the Running Line Tensiometer should the crane scale ever need to be moved, repaired, or stored. Quick disconnect cable comes in 10 ft, 20 ft, and 50 ft lengths.

WIRELESS

The WL-T24-ACM 2.4Ghz wireless transmitter is powered by 2 D cell batteries and is attached directly to the Running Line Tensiometer. It provides up to 500+ hours of continuous use. When not in use, the transmitter enters sleep mode to further extend battery life. The wireless has an open field wireless range of up to 800 meters. Tension measurement can be displayed on a hand held, on a PC, or interface wirelessly with a PLC.

M2000 LOAD CELL INDICATOR

The recommended indicator for tension applications is the M2000. This provides for multipoint calibration to achieve the highest possible accuracy. If the crane is located outside, the M2000 should be purchased in a NEMA enclosure (see left photo) to protect against dust and water. Various enclosures are available (see below images) and more details about the M2000 are available in the Indicators section.

SETPOINT OPTION CARD

The M2000 is available with a setpoint option card. These are overload detection and protection devices. Setpoints utilize solid state relays that can be used to trigger alarms or switch devices (i.e. motors) on or off at specified weights. When ordering the Setpoint option the type of device (AC or DC) being switched must be specified. Setpoints are frequently used in digital hanging crane scale applications.

PARTS OF LINE SOFTWARE

The M2000 can be loaded with a special program that allows a hanging crane scale operator to adjust the indicator for multiple “Parts of Line”. The program is configurable for one to twelve parts of line and the software will be provided free of charge when needed with the purchase of an M2000 indicator and a crane scale dynamometer.

REMOTE SCORE BOARD

Remote score boards are often referred to as “remote displays”. This type of display must be used in conjunction with a digital indicator equipped with a serial output. The remote display mirrors what is displayed on the weight indicator. They are used in applications where weighing information needs to be seen at a distance from the indicator. Score boards are available in 2″ (50 ft visibility), 4.5″ (250 ft visibility) and 6.5″ (300+ ft visibility) lettering.

4-20 mA SIGNAL CONVERTER

We can supply 4-20 mA ouput versus standard mv/V signal. The design incorporates a load cell shield connection and polarity insensitive current loop connections. It is not susceptible to damage from shorting loop leads together or to ground during operation and is specifically designed for ESD hazardous environments. These converters are usually used in systems that use a PLC.

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