How to Measure Impact Force?

Measuring impact force involves capturing the dynamic forces that are generated during a collision event. It’s often used in various machines and testing environments to ensure the safety and durability of an application’s design. One of the most reliable methods of measuring impact force is through the use of impact force sensors, which are also known as strain gauge based load cells.

An impact force measurement system typically consists of a high-frequency response load cell, high sampling rate signal conditioning electronics, and data acquisition capabilities. The load cell plays a crucial role in converting the hyper-fast mechanical force that occurs in milliseconds (the impact) into an electrical signal that can be measured and analyzed.

Common applications where load cells can be used in Impact force measurement are:

• Material Testing: Load cells gauge impact resistance and strength of materials, ensuring compliance with safety standards in construction and other industries.
• Automotive Crash Testing: Load cells measure impact force in crash tests, analyzing vehicle performance and safety by integrating them into dummies or structures.
• Sports Equipment Testing: Load cells measure impact forces on sports equipment, providing insights into performance and safety for athletes' well-being.
• Aerospace and Defense Testing: Load cells assess impact resistance, structural integrity, and safety in aerospace and defense industries, aiding collision and emergency landing analysis.
• Packaging Industry: Load cells evaluate impact forces during transportation and handling, safeguarding fragile or sensitive goods with precise measurement and packaging material assessment.
  

Some relevant standards related to impact force measurement in various industries:

• ISO 6487:2015 - Measurement techniques in impact tests;
• ASTM E23 Standard Test Methods for Notched Bar Impact Testing of Metallic Materials;
• SAE J211: Instrumentation for Impact Test;
• IEC 60068-2-75 Environmental Hammer Test;

How Load Cells are Used in Impact Force Measurement Devices?

Strain gauge load cells are commonly used in impact force measurement due to their high accuracy, reliability, and versatility. Impact force measurement devices incorporate load cells to capture and quantify impact forces accurately. By carefully selecting an impact force sensor with appropriate specifications, such as high natural frequency response and sensitivity, engineers can measure impact forces in a wide range of applications. It is important to highlight that dampening of the measurement apparatus and fixturing, and total system can greatly impact results. That said, it is paramount to assemble a testing setup that minimizes dampening effects on the exerted force so that the sensor can accurately capture the exact impact force on the system.

In terms of selecting the appropriate solution for impact force measurement, FUTEK offers a range of high-quality impact force sensors that meet the demands of even the most challenging scenarios. One highly recommended solution is the LLB500 Load Button, which provides exceptional performance with a frequency response of up to ~20 kHz. Combined with the USB225 Pro Elite, a USB digital signal conditioner capable of signal sampling up to 38,400 SPS, and the SENSIT data logging software, peak and impact forces can be captured and analyzed for optimum accuracy.