ISA-S37.

8-1982 (R1995)
Approved September 29, 1995

Standard

Specifications and Tests

for Strain Gage
Force Transducers
ISA-S37.8 — Specifications and Tests for Strain Gage Force Transducers

ISBN 0-87664-381-0

Copyright  1995 by the Instrument Society of America. All rights reserved. Printed in the United
States of America. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or
transmitted in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or
otherwise), without the prior written permission of the publisher.

ISA
67 Alexander Drive
P.O. Box 12277
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709
Preface

This preface, as well as all footnotes and annexes, is included for informational purposes and is
not part of ISA-S37.8.
This Standard has been prepared as a part of the service of ISA, the international society for
measurement and control, toward a goal of uniformity in the field of instrumentation. To be of real
value, this document should not be static but should be subject to periodic review. Toward this
end, the Society welcomes all comments and criticisms and asks that they be addressed to the
Secretary, Standards and Practices Board; ISA; 67 Alexander Drive; P.O. Box 12277; Research
Triangle Park, NC 27709; Telephone: (919) 549-8411; Fax: (919) 549-8288; E-mail:
standards@isa.org.
The ISA Standards and Practices Department is aware of the growing need for attention to the
metric system of units in general, and the International System of Units (SI) in particular, in the
preparation of instrumentation standards, recommended practices, and technical reports. The
Department is further aware of the benefits to USA users of ISA Standards of incorporating
suitable references to the SI (and the metric system) in their business and professional dealings
with other countries. Towards this end, this Department will endeavor to introduce SI and
acceptable metric units in all new and revised standards to the greatest extent possible. The
Metric Practice Guide, which has been published by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers as ANSI/IEEE Std. 268-1992, and future revisions, will be the reference guide for
definitions, symbols, abbreviations, and conversion factors.
It is the policy of ISA to encourage and welcome the participation of all concerned individuals and
interests in the development of ISA standards, recommended practices, and technical reports.
Participation in the ISA standards making process by an individual in no way constitutes
endorsement by the employer of that individual, of the ISA, or of any of the standards which ISA
develops.
This Standard is intended as a guide for technical personnel at user facilities as well as by
manufacturers' technical and sales personnel whose duties include specifying, calibrating,
testing, or showing performance characteristics of strain-gage linear accelerometers. By basing
users' specifications as well as technical advertising and reference literature on this Standard, or
by referencing portions thereof, as applicable, a clear understanding of the users' needs or of the
transducers' performance capabilities, and of the methods used for evaluating or proving
performance, will be provided. Adhering to the specification outline, terminology and procedures
shown will not only result in simple, but also complete specifications; it will also reduce design
time, procurement lead time, and labor, as well as material costs. Of major importance will be
the reduction of qualification tests resulting from use of a commonly accepted test procedure and
uniform data presentation.
The development of this Standard was initiated as the result of a survey conducted in December
1960. A total of 240 questionnaires was sent out to transducer users and manufacturers. A
strong majority indicated in their replies a need for transducer standardization. As strain-gage
force transducers were one of the types shown to be most in need of standardization, a
Subcommittee, SP37.8, was formed. To provide a coordinated document, this committee was
composed of representatives from government, user and manufacturer categories. This
Standard was then processed over several mail-review and revision cycles until a consensus of
reviewers was reached.

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 3
The following individuals served on the 1975 SP37.8 committee:

NAME COMPANY

J. J. Elengo, Jr. Chairman Revere Corporation of America

P. F. Fuselier Lawrence Radiation Laboratory
R. E. Gorton Pratt & Whitney Aircraft
H. E. Lockery Consulting Engineer
H. W. Rosenburg Naval Weapons Center
G. W. Godwin Howe Richardson Scale Company

The following individuals served on the ISA Committee SP37, who reaffirmed ISA-S37.8 in 1995:

NAME COMPANY

E. Icayan, Chairman Westinghouse Hanford Co.

J. Weiss Electric Power Research Inst.
P. Bliss, Deceased Consultant
M. Brigham The Supply System
D. Hayes LA Dept. Water & Power
M. Kopp Validyne Corp.
C. Landis Weed Fiber Optics
J. Miller Rosemount Inc.
A. Mobley 3M Co.
J. Mock Consultant
D. Norton McDermott Energy Svces Inc.
H. Norton Consultant
M. Tavares Boeing Defense & Space Group
R. Whittier Endevco
J. Wilson Consultant

This standard was reaffirmed by the ISA Standards and Practices Board on September 29, 1995.

NAME COMPANY

M. Widmeyer, Vice President Washington Public Power Supply System

H. Baumann H.D. Baumann & Associates, Inc.
D. Bishop Chevron USA Production Company
P. Brett Honeywell, Inc.
W. Calder III Foxboro Company
H. Dammeyer Phoenix Industries, Inc.
R. Dieck Pratt & Whitney
H. Hopkins Utility Products of Arizona
A. Iverson Lyondell Petrochemical Company
K. Lindner Endress + Hauser GmbH + Company
T. McAvinew Metro Wastewater Reclamation District
A. McCauley, Jr. Chagrin Valley Controls, Inc.
G. McFarland Honeywell Industrial Automation and Controls
J. Mock Consultant
E. Montgomery Fluor Daniel, Inc.
D. Rapley Rapley Engineering Services

4 ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995)
 NAME COMPANY

R. Reimer Allen-Bradley Company

R. Webb Pacific Gas & Electric Company
W. Weidman Consultant
J. Weiss Electric Power Research Institute
J. Whetstone National Institute of Standards & Technology
C. Williams Eastman Kodak Company
G. Wood Graeme Wood Consulting
M. Zielinski Fisher•Rosemount

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 5
 Contents

1 Scope ....................................................................................................................................... 9

2 Purpose.................................................................................................................................... 9

3 Drawing symbol ..................................................................................................................... 9

4 Characteristics ..................................................................................................................... 10
4.1 Design characteristics ................................................................................................. 10
4.2 Performance characteristics ....................................................................................... 14
4.3 Additional terminology ................................................................................................ 17
4.4 Tabulated characteristics versus test requirements .................................................... 19

5 Individual acceptance tests and calibrations .................................................................... 20

5.1 Basic equipment necessary to perform individual acceptance
tests and calibrations of strain-gage force transducers ............................................... 20
5.2 Calibration and test procedures .................................................................................. 21

6 Qualification tests ................................................................................................................ 24

6.1 Steady state temperature effects ................................................................................ 24
6.2 Temperature gradient error ......................................................................................... 24
6.3 Dynamic characteristics .............................................................................................. 25
6.4 Life test ....................................................................................................................... 26
6.5 Effects of other environments ..................................................................................... 26
6.6 Storage life test ........................................................................................................... 26
6.7 Abnormal loading effects ............................................................................................ 26

7 Test report forms ................................................................................................................. 27

Annex A — References ............................................................................................................ 31

Figures

1 .................................................................................................................................................. 18
2 .................................................................................................................................................. 23
3 .................................................................................................................................................. 25
4 — Individual acceptance tests and calibrations ................................................................. 28
5 — Environmental test record................................................................................................ 29

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 7
1 Scope

1.1 This standard covers strain-gage force transducers, primarily those used in measurement
systems.

1.2 Included among the specific versions of strain-gage force transducers, to which this Standard
is applicable, are the following:
Tension Transducers
Compression Transducers
Universal (Combination Compression and Tension) Transducers

1.3 Terminology used in this document is defined either herein or in ISA-S37.1, Electrical
Transducer Nomenclature and Terminology.

2 Purpose

This standard establishes the following for strain-gage force transducers.

2.1 Uniform general specifications for design and performance characteristics

2.2 Uniform acceptance and qualification test methods, including calibration techniques

2.3 Uniform presentation of test data

2.4 A drawing symbol for use in electrical schematics

3 Drawing symbol

The drawing symbol for a strain-gage transducer is a square of dimensions 2x by 2x, with an
added equilateral triangle, the base of which is the left side of the square. The triangle
symbolizes the sensing element. The letter "F" in the triangle designates "force", and the
additional sub-positioned letters denote the second modifier.

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 9
 2X

FC 2X

C - Compression X
T - Tension
U - Universal

The strain-gage bridge is symbolized by a small square, with diagonals x by x, centered in the
large square. The diagonals of the small square are drawn perpendicular to the sides of the
large square. Lines from each apex of the small square projected to the right side of the large
square represent the electrical leads.

4 Characteristics

4.1 Design characteristics

4.1.1 Basic mechanical design characteristics

The following mechanical design characteristics shall be listed.

4.1.1.1 Type of force transducer

Tension, compression, or universal.

4.1.1.2 Physical dimensions

Outline drawing to be provided with dimensions in millimeters (inches).

4.1.1.3 Force connection

Force connections (both ends) shall be indicated on the outline drawing giving sufficient
information regarding location, size, and tolerance of connection features, as well as any special
considerations, to enable proper application of forces to the transducer.

4.1.1.4 Mountings and mounting dimensions

Outline drawing shall indicate method of mounting with dimensions in millimeters (inches).

10 ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995)
4.1.1.5 Location of electrical connection
Indicate location and orientation of electrical connector or connecting wiring.

4.1.1.6 Overload rating, ultimate

Specify percentage of rated force that will not result in structural failure at environmental
extremes.

4.1.1.7 Mounting torque

Allowable mounting torque shall be specified if it will tend to effect transducer performance.

4.1.1.8 Weight
The weight of the transducer shall be specified in kilograms (pounds mass).

4.1.1.9 Identification
The following characteristics shall be given and preferably permanently affixed to the outside of
the transducer case and indicated on the outline drawing:
a) Nomenclature of transducer (per ISA-S37.1, Section 3)
b) Manufacturer's name, part number, and serial number
c) Range
d) Excitation
e) Identification of electrical connections
f) Bridge identification, if more than one bridge provided.

Listing of the following characteristics is optional:

a) Sensitivity (usually millivolts per volt at full scale load)
b) Customer's specification and/or part number
c) Maximum allowable force that will not influence prescribed performance
d) Maximum operating temperature range

4.1.1.10 Temperature range, safe

Temperature range of environment in which the transducer may be used and which will not cause
permanent calibration shift or permanent change in any of its characteristics shall be listed.

4.1.2 Supplemental mechanical design characteristics

Listing of the following mechanical design characteristics is optional:
a) Case Material
b) Surface Finish
c) Type of Strain-Gage Used — Metallic; bonded or unbonded, wire or foil; Semiconductor;
bonded or unbonded
d) Location of Strain-Gage — Mounted directly on force sensing element or mounted on
auxiliary member activated by force sensing element

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 11
 e) Number of Active Strain-Gage Bridge Arms (elements)
f) One, Two-arm active, Four-arm bridge
g) Number of Strain-Gage Bridges
h) Mounting Surface Requirements

4.1.3 Basic electrical design characteristics

The following electrical design characteristics shall be listed. They are applicable at "ambient
conditions" as specified in 4.2.

4.1.3.1 Excitation*
Expressed as "____ volts dc" or "____ volts rms at ___ Hz," or, expressed as "____ mA dc" or
"____ mA rms at ____ Hz." Preferred values of voltage 5, 10, 15, 20, and 28 volts.

4.1.3.2 Maximum excitation*

Expressed as " ____ volts dc" or "____ volts rms at ____ Hz," or, expressed as "____ mA dc" or
"____ mA rms at ____ Hz," and defined as the maximum value of excitation voltage that will not
permanently damage the transducer.

4.1.3.3 Input impedance*

Expressed as "_____ ± ____ ohms at ____ ± ____ Hz" and "____°C (°F)." If impedance is
resistive, specify "dc."

NOTE — Output terminals are to be open-circuited for this measurement.

4.1.3.4 Output impedance*

Expressed as " ____ ± ____ ohms at ____ ± ____ Hz" and "____ °C(°F) ." If impedance is
resistive, specify "dc."

NOTE — If input terminals are to be short-circuited for this measurement, so specify.

4.1.3.5 Electrical connections

Whether the electrical termination is by means of a connector or a cable, the pin designation or
wire color code shall conform to the following:

*Defined in ISA-S37.1

12 ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995)
:
W = WHITE
3/C -OUTPUT

R = RED
1/A +INPUT

W-R = WHITE-RED
5/E
1 4
W-G = WHITE-GREEN
6/F
3
G = GREEN
2 2/B +OUTPUT
W-B = WHITE-BLACK
8/H

B = BLACK
4/D -INPUT

W-Y = WHITE-YELLOW 7/G

9/I SHEILD (FLOATING)

CONNECTOR

Primary wiring terminals 1/A, 2/B, 3/C, 4/D

Auxiliary wiring terminals 5/E, 6/F, 7/G, 8/H
( Optional)

NOTES
1. The output polarities indicated on the above wiring diagram apply when an increasing
force (compression or tension) is applied to the transducer. For universal force
transducers, the indicated polarities apply when the tension force is applied to the
transducer; a compression force will produce a negative output.
2. For shielded transducers, pins 5, 7, and 9 shall be shield terminals for 4, 6, and 8 wire
systems, respectively.
3. Type connection: Solder or weld.

4.1.3.6 Insulation resistance

Expressed as "____ megohms at ____ volts dc at ____ °C(°F) between all terminals or leads
connected in parallel, and the transducer case."

4.1.4 Supplemental electrical design characteristics

Listing of the following design characteristics is optional.

4.1.4.1 Shunt calibration resistor(s)

Expressed as "____ ± ____ ohms for ____ % ± ____% of full scale output at ____°C(°F)."

NOTE — The terminals across which the resistor(s) is (are) to be placed shall be specified
if the resistor(s) is (are) listed.

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 13
4.2 Performance characteristics

The pertinent performance characteristics of strain-gage force transducers shall be tabulated in

the order shown. Unless otherwise specified, they apply at the following ambient conditions:
Temperature 23 ± 2°C (73.4°F ± 3.6°F); Relative Humidity 90% maximum;
Barometric Pressure 98 ± 10 kPa (29 ± 3 inches of Hg).

4.2.1 Range*
Usually expressed as "____ to ____ newtons (pounds force) compression or tension" or " ____
to ____ newtons (pounds force) compression and ____ to ____newtons (pounds force) tension."

NOTE — If 4.2.2 and 4.2.3 are used to specify performance characteristics, the tolerance
in 4.2.3 may be omitted. Alternately, the following may be specified: 4.2.3 - 4.2.6.

4.2.2 End points*

Expressed as "____ ± ____ mV and ____ ± ____ mV open circuit per volt (mA) excitation," or
"____ ± ____ mV and ____ ± ____ mV open circuit at ____ volts (mA) excitation.”

4.2.3 Full Scale Output (FSO)*

Expressed as "____ ± ____ mV open circuit per volt (mA) excitation," or "____ ± ____ mV open
circuit at ____volts (mA) excitation."

4.2.4 Zero-measurand output

Expressed as "± ____% of full scale output." Determined at full rated excitation, with zero
measurand applied to the force transducer.

4.2.5 Zero drift

Expressed as "±____ % of full scale output over a period of ____ (specify time) with no load
applied."

4.2.6 Sensitivity drift

Expressed as "± ____ % of full scale output over a period of ____ (specify time) with
____ newtons (pounds force) applied."

4.2.7 Linearity*
Expressed as " ____ linearity within ± ____% of full scale output in ____ [specify direction(s) of
loading]."

NOTE — The type of linearity specified shall be one of the types defined in ISA-S37.1;
namely, end point, independent, least squares, terminal, or theoretical slope.

4.2.8 Hysteresis
Expressed as "____% of full scale output upon application of ascending and descending forces
including rated force." Alternately, 4.2.7 and 4.2.8 may be combined as follows.

*Defined in ISA-S37.1

14 ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995)
4.2.9 Hysteresis and linearity
Expressed as "combined hysteresis and linearity within ± ____% of full scale output upon
application of ascending and descending forces including ’rated force.’"

4.2.10 Repeatability*
Expressed as "within ____% of full scale output over a period of ____ (specify time) and with
____ cycles of load application."
Alternately 4.2.7, 4.2.8, and 4.2.10 may be combined as follows.

4.2.11 Static error band

Expressed as "± ____% of full scale output as referred to ____straight line," (see 4.2.7).

NOTE — The static error band includes errors due to linearity, hysteresis, and repeatability.

4.2.12 Creep at load

Expressed as "± ____ % of full scale output with the transducer subjected to rated force for a
period of ____ ( specify time)."

4.2.13 Creep recovery

Expressed as "± ____ % of full scale output measured at no load and over a period of ____
(specify time) immediately following removal of rated force, that force having been applied for an
identical period of time as specified in 4.2.12."

4.2.14 Warm-up period*

Expressed as " ____ minutes for subsequent drifts in sensitivity of zero-measurand balance not
to exceed ____% of full scale output."

4.2.15 Static spring constant

Expressed in newtons per meter or (pounds force per inch), see 6.3.

4.2.16 Equivalent dynamic masses

Expressed in kilograms (pounds mass), for both ends of transducer, see 6.3.

4.2.17 Internal mechanical damping

Expressed in newtons per meter/second relative velocity (pounds force per inch/second relative
velocity), between ends at a frequency of _____ Hz and a dynamic load of ± _____newtons
(pounds force).

4.2.18 Overloading rating, safe

Expressed as "application of____ newtons (pounds force) for____ minutes will not cause
permanent changes in transducer performance beyond specified static error band."

4.2.19 Rated force

Expressed as " ____ newtons (pounds force) either compression or tension." This is the
maximum axial force the transducer is designed to measure within its specifications.

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 15
4.2.20 Thermal sensitivity shift*
Expressed as "± ____% of sensitivity ____ per °C(°F) temperature change over temperature
range from____ to ____°C (°F).”

4.2.21 Thermal zero shift*

Expressed as "± ____% of full scale output per ____°C (°F) temperature change over
temperature range from ____ to ____°C (°F)."

4.2.22 Temperature error band*

Expressed as "output values are within ± ____% of full scale output from the straight line
establishing static error band (as defined in 4.2.11) over temperature range from _____ to
____°C (°F)."

4.2.23 Temperature gradient error*

Expressed as "less than ± ____ % of full scale output while at zero load and subjected to a step
function temperature change from _____ to _____°C (°F) lasting for _____ minutes and applied
to _____ (specify particular part) of the transducer."

4.2.24 Cycling life

Expressed as "± _____ full scale cycles over which transducer shall operate without change in
characteristics beyond its specified tolerances."

4.2.25 Other environmental conditions

Other pertinent environmental conditions that shall not change transducer performance beyond
specified limits shall be listed. The following are examples:
a) Shock – Triaxial
b) High Level Acoustic Excitation
c) Humidity
d) Salt Spray
e) Electromagnetic Radiation
f) Magnetic Fields
g) Nuclear Radiation

4.2.26 Storage life

Expressed as "Transducer can be exposed to specified environmental storage condition for
_____ (days, months, years) without changing the following performance characteristics beyond
their specified tolerances."

NOTE — Environmental storage conditions shall be described in detail. Pertinent perfor-

mance characteristics (examples: sensitivity zero drift) shall be specified.

*Defined in ISA-S37.1

16 ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995)
4.2.27 Abnormal loading effects (Refer to Figure 1.)

4.2.27.1 Concentric angular load effect

Expressed as "± _____ % of full scale output difference from true output (axially loaded output
multiplied by cosine of angle) resulting from a load applied concentric with the primary axis at the
point of application and at _____ degrees angle with respect to the primary axis."

4.2.27.2 Eccentric angular load effect

Expressed as "± _____ % of full scale output difference from true output multiplied by cosine of
angle) resulting from a load applied eccentric with the primary axis and at a _____ degree angle
with respect to the primary axis."

4.2.27.3 Eccentric load effect

Expressed as "± _____ % of full scale output difference from axially loaded output resulting from
a load parallel to but displaced_____ mm (in.) from concentricity with the primary axis."

4.3 Additional terminology

4.3.1 ambient pressure effects: The change in sensitivity and the change in zero-measurand
output due to subjecting the transducer to a specified ambient pressure change.

4.3.2 creep at load: The change in output occurring with time under rated load and with all
environmental conditions and other variables remaining constant.

4.3.3 creep recovery: The change in zero-measurand output occurring with time after removal
of rated load, which had been applied for an identical period of time as employed in evaluating
Creep at Load.

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 17
18

L L L

La B

ECCENTRICITY

L a = L cos B
L s = L sin B
Figure 1

ECCENTRICITY

B B

Fig. 1a Fig. 1b Fig. 1c

a – 1/cos B % Rated a – 2/cos B % Rated a– 3 Rated

Error = X 100 Error = X 100 Error = X 100
a Output a Output a Output
ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995)

a = Rated output at rated axial loading.

1, 2, 3 = Output under any unfavorable rated
loading conditions.

L = Load

L a = Axial Load

L s = Side Load
4.4 Tabulated Characteristics Versus Test Requirements
Design Characteristic Verified During
Characteristics Paragraph Basic Supp. Acceptance Qual.

Type of Force Transducer 4.1.1.1 X

Physical Dimensions 4.1.1.2 X
Force Connection 4.1.1.3 X
Mounting Dimensions 4.1.1.4 X
Electrical Connection Location 4.1.1.5 X
Overload Rating, Ultimate 4.1.1.6 X
Mounting Force or Torque 4.1.1.7 X
Weight 4.1.1.8 X
Identification 4.1.1.9 X
Temperature Range 4.1.1.10 X
Case Material 4.1.2 X
Surface Finish 4.1.2 X
Type of Strain-Gage Used 4.1.2 X
Location of Strain-Gage 4.1.2 X
Number of Active Strain-Gage 4.1.2 X
Elements
Number of Strain-Gage Bridges 4.1.2 X
Mounting Surface Requirements 4.1.2 X
Excitation 4.1.3.1 X
Maximum Excitation 4.1.3.2 X
Input Impedance 4.1.3.3 X 5.2.9
Output Impedance 4.1.3.4 X 5.2.9
Electrical Connections 4.1.3.5 X
Insulation Resistance 4.1.3.6 X 5.2.8
Shunt Calibration Resistor 4.1.4.1 X
Range 4.2.1 X
End Point 4.2.2 X 5.2.3
Full Scale Output 4.2.3 X 5.2.3
Zero-Measurand Output 4.2.4 X 5.2.3
Zero-Drift 4.2.5 X 5.2.4
Sensitivity Drift 4.2.6 X 5.2.4
Linearity 4.2.7 X 5.2.3
Hysteresis 4.2.8 X 5.2.3
Hysteresis and Linearity 4.2.9 X 5.2.3
Repeatability 4.2.10 X 5.2.3
Static Error Band 4.2.11 X 5.2.3
Creep 4.2.12 X 5.2.5
Creep Recovery 4.2.13 X
Warm-up Period 4.2.14 X 5.2.6
Static Spring Constant 4.2.15 X 6.3
Equivalent Dynamic Masses 4.2.16 X 6.3
Internal Mechanical Damping 4.2.17 X 6.3
Overload Rating 4.2.18 X 5.2.7
Rated Force 4.2.19 X
Thermal Sensitivity Shift 4.2.20 X 6.1
Thermal Zero Shift 4.2.21 X 6.1
Temperature Error Band 4.2.22 X 6.1
Temperature Gradient Error 4.2.23 X 6.2
Cycling Life 4.2.24 X 6.4
Other Environmental Conditions 4.2.25 X 6.5
Storage Life 4.2.26 X 6.6
Abnormal Loading Effects 4.2.27 X 6.7

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 19
5 Individual acceptance tests and calibrations

5.1 Basic equipment necessary to perform individual acceptance tests and calibrations
of strain-gage force transducers
The basic equipment for acceptance tests and calibration consists of a force calibrator, a source
of electrical excitation for the strain-gages, and a device which measures the electrical output of
the transducer. The errors or uncertainties of the measuring system comprising these three
components should be less than one-third of the permissible tolerance of the transducer
performance characteristic under evaluation. Traceability to the National Bureau of Standards
should be established.

5.1.1 Force calibrator

The maximum inaccuracy of the force calibrator, for ranges of 50,000 newtons and less, should
be not more than one-fifth the permissible tolerance of the transducer performance characteristic
under evaluation. Force ranges in excess of 50,000 newtons require force calibrator maximum
inaccuracy not more than one-half the permissible tolerance of the transducer performance
characteristic under evaluation. Range of the instrument supplying or monitoring the calibration
force should be selected to provide the necessary accuracy to 125 percent of the full scale range
of the transducer.
The force calibrator may be either continuously variable over the range of the instrument, or may
vary in discrete steps provided that the steps can be programmed in such a manner that the
transition from one force to the next during calibration is accomplished without creating a
hysteresis error in the measurement due to over-shoot.

DEAD WEIGHT CALIBRATOR

Typical ranges (tension or compression)

0 - 2000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.01% of Test Load

0 - 5000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.01% of Test Load
0 - 20,000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.01% of Test Load
0 - 50,000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.01% of Test Load
0 - 500,000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.01% of Test Load

PROVING RING CALIBRATOR

Typical ranges (tension or compression)

0 - 200 newtons Max. Error ± 0.1% Full Scale

0 - 500 newtons Max. Error ± 0.1% Full Scale
0 - 2000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.1% Full Scale
0 - 5000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.1% Full Scale
0 - 20,000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.1% Full Scale
0 - 50,000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.1% Full Scale

20 ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995)
 HIGH ACCURACY REFERENCE FORCE TRANSDUCER
Typical ranges (tension or compression)

0 - 500 newtons Max. Error ± 0.1% Full Scale

0 - 1000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.1% Full Scale
0 - 5000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.1% Full Scale
0 - 10,000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.1% Full Scale
0 - 50,000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.1% Full Scale
0 - 100,000 newtons Max. Error ± 0.1% Full Scale

5.1.2 Stable source of electrical excitation of accurately-known amplitude

For dc excitation, commonly used sources are line powered, electronically regulated,
power supplies.
For ac excitation, commonly used sources are the power line in association with a step-down
transformer or an oscillator. Where radiometric measurement techniques are employed, input
power shall be within both instrument and force transducer specified range.

5.1.3 Readout instrument

Examples of suitable devices are
MANUALLY BALANCED POTENTIOMETER
Typical ranges
0 to 16 millivolts, Maximum error ± 0.015% of reading or ± 1 microvolt,
whichever is greater.
0 to 160 millivolts, Maximum error ± 0.015% of reading or ± 3 microvolts,
whichever is greater.
0 to 1.6 volts, Maximum error ± 0.015% of reading or ± 30 microvolts,
whichever is greater.

DIGITAL ELECTRONIC VOLTMETER WITH PREAMPLIFIER

Typical ranges Sensitivity Maximum error
0 to 10 millivolts 1 microvolt ± 0.02% of reading, or ± 2 microvolts,
whichever is greater.
0 to 100 millivolts 10 microvolts ± 0.01% of reading, or ± 10 microvolts,
whichever is greater.

NOTE — The input impedance of the readout instrument should be as high as possible.
Unless otherwise stated, adjustments and compensation of the transducer apply to open
circuit conditions on the output terminals.

5.2 Calibration and test procedures

Results obtained during the calibration and test procedures should be recorded on data sheets
like the sample data sheets in Section 7. These procedures shall be performed under ambient
conditions as defined in 4.2.

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 21
5.2.1 The transducer is inspected visually for mechanical defects, poor finish, and improper
identification markings.

5.2.2 The transducer shall be connected to the force calibrator with axial alignment as specified
by the manufacturer. The excitation source and readout instrument shall be connected to the
transducer and turned on. Adequate warm-up time for test equipment shall be allowed before tests
are conducted. The force calibrator and connecting hardware shall have passed a prior test for
proper operation. It may be desirable prior to calibration to exercise the force transducer by applying
rated load and returning to zero load, if so, the number of cycles and time duration should be noted
on the data sheet.

5.2.3 Two or more complete calibration cycles (dependent on desired statistical confidence levels)
are run consecutively, including five to ten points in both ascending and descending directions.
Excitation amplitude shall be monitored as required.
From the data obtained during these tests, the following characteristics should be determined:
a) End points 4.2.2
b) Full scale output 4.2.3
c) Zero balance 4.2.4
d) Linearity 4.2.7
e) Hysteresis 4.2.8
f) (or Hysteresis and linearity) 4.2.9
g) Repeatability 4.2.10
h) (or Static error band) 4.2.11

5.2.4 Repeated calibration cycles over a specified period of time after warmup, establish the
following characteristics for that period of time:
a) Zero drift 4.2.5
b) Sensitivity drift 4.2.6

NOTE — They may be abbreviated cycles with fewer data points than required in 5.2.3.

5.2.5 Application of rated force to the transducer during a specified short period of time and
measurement of changes in output at constant excitation during this time should establish
a) Creep at load 4.2.12

NOTE — See Figure 2. Rate of application of force to be as high as possible without

resonant excitation of transducer.

5.2.6 By measuring zero-measurand output and sensitivity over a period of time (one hour should
suffice), starting with the application of excitation to the transducer, the following characteristic
should be determined:
a) Warmup period 4.2.14

NOTE — It is desirable to test for these effects separately, establishing the warmup change
of zero-measurand output first.

22 ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995)
 NOTE: CREEP MAY ALSO
TAKE THIS FORM

t 1

t 2' 2
t
3' 3

t 0' 0

TIME
t t
6' 6 7' 7
t
5' 5
t
4

t – t = Load Application. Should be carefully considered in

1 0
comparative creep measurement.

t 2 – t 1 = Should be as short as possible. (Suggested 5 - 10 s.)

t – t = Creep measurement period. Suggested 3 min., for

3 2
short term and 30 min., for long term.

2– 3
X 100 = Creep in % rated output.

t 4 – t 3 = Load release peroid. (Should equal t 1 - t 0 )

t – t = Should be as short as possible. ( Suggested 5 - 10 s.)

5 4

t 6 – t 5 = Creep recovery period. Suggested 3 min. for short

term and 30 min. for long term.

5 – 6 X 100 = Creep recovery in % rated output.

t = Time at which zero return is measured.

7

7– 0 X 100 = Zero return in % rated output.

Figure 2

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 23
5.2.7 After application of the specified overload a specified number of times (and in the specified
duration for compression or tension), at least one complete calibration cycle shall be performed to
establish that the performance characteristics of the transducer are still within specifications.
a) Overload rating, safe 4.2.18

5.2.8 Measure the insulation resistance between all terminals, or leads connected in parallel, and
the case of the transducer with a megohmmeter or similar acceptable device, using a potential of
50 volts, unless otherwise specified. Insulation resistance should be measured at room
temperature.
a) Insulation resistance 4.1.3.6

5.2.9 Wheatstone bridge (for dc) or impedance bridge shall be used to measure
a) Input impedance 4.1.3.3
b) Output impedance 4.1.3.4

6 Qualification tests

6.1 Steady state temperature effects

The transducer shall be placed in a suitable temperature chamber. After allowing adequate
stabilization time at a specified temperature, one or more calibration cycles shall be performed
within the chamber. This procedure shall be repeated at an adequate number of temperatures
within the operating temperature range of the transducer. These tests should establish the
following characteristics:
a) Thermal sensitivity shift 4.2.20
b) Thermal zero shift 4.2.21
c) Temperature error band 4.2.22

6.2 Temperature gradient error

The force transducer, at "room temperature," shall be subjected to a thermal transient by

immersion in a fluid, which is kept at a specified temperature above or below room conditions."
With no force applied, the output is observed over a specified period of time.

NOTE — The type of fluid and method of application shall be specified.

These tests should establish

a) Temperature transient error 4.2.23

24 ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995)
6.3 Dynamic characteristics

The dynamic response of an installed force transducer depends on the stiffness and mass
distribution throughout the entire system in which the force transducer is a part. In many cases,
especially those which have many springs and masses, the dynamic response of the installed
force transducer may best be determined experimentally by applying a suitable time-varying
force to the complete system and measuring the output vs. time response of the transducer.
Alternatively, if the distribution of stiffness and mass throughout the system is known
quantitatively, the response of the system to a time-varying force may be computed analytically.
This approach, however, is apt to be very cumbersome unless (1) attention is limited to
frequencies from zero to a little above the lowest natural frequency and (2) the stiffness and mass
system is relatively simple.
The dynamic characteristics of the force transducer itself may be determined over a wide
frequency range with suitable test fixtures and instrumentation either by applying sinusoidal
forces or step function forces. Generally, such a determination yields very complex results. Over
a limited low frequency range, however, the dynamic response of a force transducer may be
defined adequately in terms of a simple equivalent model as shown in Figure 3.

M 1 M2

k = Static Spring Constant

c = Damping Force Parameter

M 1 = Effective Mass of "Base" of Transducer*

M2 = Effective Mass of "Top" of Transducer*

* The "base" and "top" of the transducer are defined in

the outline drawing.

Figure 3

M1 and M2 may be determined experimentally or analytically so that the calculated natural

frequency of the M1-k-M2 model agrees with the actual first mode natural frequency of the
transducer. The effective damping parameter generally varies with the force amplitude and
possibly with frequency; consequently, the value of c must be determined for the particular load
and frequency values of interest.

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 25
6.4 Life test

After applying the specified number of full range excursions of force, at least one complete
calibration cycle shall be performed to establish minimum value of
a) Cycling life 4.2.24

6.5 Effects of other environments

Expose transducer to other specified environmental conditions followed in each case by one
complete calibration cycle to test ability of transducer to perform satisfactorily after such
exposure.

6.6 Storage life test

After storing the transducer under specified conditions for the specified period of time, two
complete calibration cycles shall be performed to establish
a) Storage life 4.2.26

6.7 Abnormal loading effects

6.7.1 For determination of the effects of concentric angular loading (and side loading), insert wedge
blocks above and below the force transducers as illustrated in Figure 1a. The angle subtended by
the two larger surface areas (B) of each block shall be equivalent to the angle of interest or shall
result in the side load of interest.

6.7.1.1 Measure zero-measured output.

6.7.1.2 Apply rated load and read output as soon as load has stabilized.

6.7.1.3 Remove load and record zero-measurand output after output has stabilized.

6.7.2 For determination of the effects of eccentric angular loading, remove the upper wedge block
(Figure 1b) and repeat steps 6.7.1.1 through 6.7.1.3. If eccentricities other than that obtained in
the foregoing are desired, a flat load button should be used and the amount of eccentricity should
be adjusted through placement of the force transducer under a convex loading ram surface.

6.7.3 For determination of the effects of eccentric loading, remove the lower wedge block, use a
flat load button, and adjust eccentricity through placement of the force transducer under the convex
loading ram surface (see Figure 1c). Repeat steps 6.7.1.1 through 6.7.1.3.

6.7.4 The effects of the various types of loading related to axial loading conditions can be
determined in accordance with the expressions included in Figure 1.

26 ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995)
7 Test report forms

7.1 The test report forms listed are recommended for use during the testing of strain-gage force
transducers.

7.2 When using the forms, all pertinent information shall be inserted in its proper place. On some
forms, blank space has been provided for additional tests. Where the test is prolonged, more than
one form may be required.

7.3 Individual Acceptance Tests and Calibrations (Figure 4) used during acceptance testing of
Section 5 may also be used during qualification testing of Section 6.

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 27
 Figure 4 — Individual acceptance tests and calibrations

28 ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995)
7.4 "Environmental Test Record" (Figure 5) used to record thermal sensitivity shift, thermal zero
shift, temperature error band, temperature transit error, and other environmental tests.

Figure 5 — Environmental test record

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 29
Annex A — References

ISA

ISA-S37.1-1982 Electrical Transducer Nomenclature and Terminology

ISA-S37.3-1982 Specifications and Tests for Strain Gage Pressure Transducers

(R 1995)

Available from: ISA

67 Alexander Drive
P.O. Box 12277
Research Triangle Park, NC 27707 Tel. (919) 990-9200

MISCELLANEOUS

Handbook of Transducers for Electronic Measuring Systems, Norton, Harry N.,

Prentice-Hall, Inc. (1969).
MIL-E-5272C (ASG) Environmental Testing, Aeronautical and Associated
Equipment, General Specifications for (1970).
MIL-E-5400P, (ASG) Electronic Equipment, Aircraft, General Specifications for (1974).
MIL-STD-810C, Environmental Test Methods for Aero-Space and Ground
Equipment (1975).
Standard Load Cell Terminology and Definitions, developed by the Industrial
Instrument Section of the Scientific Apparatus Makers Association and published by
the Scale Manufacturer's Association (1962).

ISA-S37.8-1982 (R1995) 31
Developing and promulgating technically sound consensus standards,
recommended practices, and technical reports is one of ISA's primary
goals. To achieve this goal the Standards and Practices Department
relies on the technical expertise and efforts of volunteer committee
members, chairmen, and reviewers.
ISA is an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited
organization. ISA administers United States Technical Advisory
Groups (USTAGs) and provides secretariat support for International
Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) committees that develop process measurement
and control standards. To obtain additional information on the
Society's standards program, please write:

ISA
Attn: Standards Department
67 Alexander Drive
P.O. Box 12277
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709

ISBN: 0-87664-381-0