How does the CMS bolt load cell work?
The BoltSafe bolt load cell is a specially designed load cell (load sensor) that monitors the actual bolt load in bolted joints. CMS stands for Continuous Monitoring System, which allows for continuous monitoring of the bolt load from one connection point. Several load sensors can be interconnected within a network. Using a BoltSafe load cell eliminates any uncertainties about the bolt load. This results in enhanced safety, dependable joints and better control over the structure. Besides those safety benefits, the costs during installation and throughout the joint’s service life are reduced.
Each sensor utilizes an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), which performs all signal conditioning and digital communication. Because of this, each BoltSafe load sensor has a unique serial number for individual identification and traceability. The digital monitoring system not only measures the bolt load, but can also monitor the sensor temperature. The load cell is available in two kinds of steel: our regular stainless steel, and a stronger version that can withstand 15% more load while keeping the same compact dimensions.
Another application of the load cells is in temporary construction or for Structural Health Monitoring. In this case the sensors are used as washers to check the load in the construction to make sure that the (temporary) construction does not collapse.
