Button Load Cells
Compact compression measurement for test fixtures, robotics, press monitoring, and industrial applications. TC-LB series: 100–10,000 lbf with ±0.15–0.25% accuracy.
Quick Overview
- 7 capacity models: 100 lbf to 10,000 lbf in standard steps
- Accuracy: ±0.15% F.S. for 100–500 lbf; ±0.25% F.S. for 5,000–10,000 lbf
- Stainless steel construction rated for −40 to +93°C operation
- Drop-in replacements for Futek LLB400 and LLB450 series
At-a-Glance Specifications
What Are Button Load Cells?
Button load cells are compact, low-profile force sensors designed to measure compression forces in confined spaces. The TC-LB series from Transcell delivers precision compression measurement in a disk-shaped form factor, making them ideal for integration into test frames, robotic end-effectors, assembly automation, and monitoring applications where space is limited.
Unlike larger cylindrical load cells, button cells sit flush in applications that require point-contact force sensing. The passive mV/V output means the sensor requires only a signal conditioning circuit or data acquisition system — no on-board electronics, no power management, no software initialization. This passive architecture provides exceptional reliability in high-temperature environments and simplifies integration into existing instrumentation setups.
The TC-LB series replicates the mechanical form factor and electrical output of the Futek LLB400 and LLB450, offering a direct replacement for existing systems while maintaining the industrial-grade reliability expected in manufacturing and test environments.
Dimensional drawing of TC-LB button load cell showing disk profile, mounting surface, and cable exit with key dimensions annotated.
Key Features & Technical Attributes
High Accuracy Across Range
Nonlinearity of ±0.15% F.S. (100–500 lbf) and ±0.20–0.25% F.S. (1,000–10,000 lbf) ensures repeatable measurement in test and production applications.
Passive mV/V Output
No power supply required at the sensor. Works directly with standard 12 VDC excitation via any industrial signal conditioner, PLC analog input, or data logger supporting mV/V Wheatstone bridge.
Stainless Steel Construction
304 stainless steel body handles washdown, moisture, and mild corrosive environments common in food, pharmaceutical, and medical device assembly lines.
Wide Temp Compensation
Operating range −40 to +93°C (compensated range −10 to +60°C) accommodates cold storage, ambient, and heated press applications without separate temperature correction.
Low Profile Design
Disk-shaped geometry allows mounting in confined spaces, directly into test frames, or between parts in assembly fixtures without significant modification.
Futek LLB Compatibility
Direct replacement for LLB400 (100–2,000 lbf) and LLB450 (5,000–10,000 lbf). Pin-compatible connectors and same rated output simplify system migration.
Model Selection & Capacity Range
The TC-LB series offers seven capacity points covering 100 lbf minimum to 10,000 lbf maximum. This range spans light compression (electronics assembly, small-part pressing) through heavy industrial pressing, crimping, and material testing.
| Model | Capacity (lbf) | Nonlinearity | Hysteresis | Repeatability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TC-LB-100 | 100 | ±0.15% F.S. | ±0.10% F.S. | ±0.05% F.S. |
| TC-LB-250 | 250 | ±0.15% F.S. | ±0.10% F.S. | ±0.05% F.S. |
| TC-LB-500 | 500 | ±0.15% F.S. | ±0.10% F.S. | ±0.05% F.S. |
| TC-LB-1000 | 1,000 | ±0.20% F.S. | ±0.15% F.S. | ±0.08% F.S. |
| TC-LB-2000 | 2,000 | ±0.20% F.S. | ±0.15% F.S. | ±0.08% F.S. |
| TC-LB-5000 | 5,000 | ±0.25% F.S. | ±0.20% F.S. | ±0.10% F.S. |
| TC-LB-10000 | 10,000 | ±0.25% F.S. | ±0.20% F.S. | ±0.10% F.S. |
Key Selection Tip: For multi-range applications, always select the smallest capacity that accommodates your maximum operating load. Oversizing causes reduced signal resolution at lower forces. A 1,000 lbf cell loaded at 200 lbf loses measurement sensitivity compared to a 500 lbf cell at the same load.
Mounting, Integration & Installation
Button load cells integrate via three primary mounting strategies: direct compression mounting, test frame integration, and OEM-embedded assembly.
Direct Compression Mounting
The most common installation: machine the sensing point flat and perpendicular to load direction, position the button load cell, and apply compressive force directly to the load button. The cell must be supported on its circumference to prevent lateral deflection. For small capacities (100–500 lbf), use precision parallels or guide rails. For heavy loads (5,000–10,000 lbf), integrate into a rigid test frame to maintain alignment.
Test Fixture Integration
Mount the TC-LB cell between upper and lower platens of a universal test machine, compression tester, or custom fixture. Ensure the load button aligns with the test sample to avoid off-axis loading. Attach the 10 ft shielded cable to the data acquisition system, conditioning amplifier, or PLC analog input. The passive output simplifies wiring — no isolated signal loops or impedance-matching circuits required for standard industrial distances up to 100 feet.
Robotics & End-Effector Assembly
For collaborative robot grippers or automated assembly arms, embed the TC-LB directly in the gripper jaws or contact point. The low-profile form factor minimizes gripper bulk. Wire the sensor through the arm’s internal cabling to the control cabinet. The stainless steel body provides durability in multi-shift production environments.
Proper compression mounting for a button load cell showing a controlled vertical load path.
Installation Note: Avoid misalignment. Lateral forces exceeding 10% of rated capacity can cause stress concentration at the load button and accelerate fatigue. Use self-aligning spherical washers or precision guide systems if the application permits transverse loading.
Who These Are For
Measure compression during product qualification, material testing, and R&D. The high accuracy (±0.15–0.25%) meets ASTM and ISO compression test standards. Passive output integrates with existing data loggers.
Monitor press force, crimp pressure, and compression during high-volume production. Direct Futek compatibility simplifies retrofit of aging press-monitoring systems. Stainless steel handles washdown and coolant exposure.
Embed in collaborative grippers, pick-and-place end-effectors, and force-feedback systems. Low-profile form factor minimizes gripper mass. Passive output works with standard industrial controllers.
Pressure-sensitive assembly (tablet compression, capsule filling) requires precision force feedback without on-board electronics that complicate validation. Stainless steel meets hygienic processing requirements.
Test plug insertion force, mating pressure, and connector durability. Small capacities (100–500 lbf) provide sensitive measurement in confined test fixtures.
Standards, Certification & Calibration
The TC-LB series is manufactured to ISO 376 force measurement standards and designed to integrate into test systems complying with ASTM compression testing methods (ASTM D6289, ASTM D695, ASTM C39 concrete compression, and similar). Each sensor undergoes static calibration and is shipped with a 3-year traceability certificate referencing NIST standards.
The stainless steel body meets FDA indirect food contact requirements (CFR Title 21) and is compatible with pharmaceutical washdown protocols. Passive mV/V output avoids complex isolation or shielding requirements common in active sensors.
Recalibration: Transcell offers annual recalibration services with documented calibration reports. For high-cycle or high-temperature applications, schedule recalibration every 12–24 months to maintain measurement traceability.
How Transcell Compares
Transcell TC-LB button load cells compete directly with Futek LLB series (original manufacturer) and generic stainless steel load cells from overseas suppliers. Here’s what differentiates TC-LB:
vs. Generic Stainless Cells: Low-cost imports often sacrifice temperature stability and hysteresis control. The TC-LB maintains ±0.20% F.S. hysteresis even after 100,000 load cycles. Stainless material is certified 304-grade (not 420 with unknown alloy composition). Passive output simplifies integration compared to cells requiring custom signal conditioning.
vs. Load Pins: Load pins offer lower cost but limited accuracy (±0.5–1.0%) and poor temperature compensation. Button cells excel when repeatability and measurement accuracy matter more than minimizing component cost.
Related Transcell Load Cell Types
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Integrate Button Load Cells Into Your Test System?
Download our TC-LB datasheet or contact our technical team to discuss your specific compression measurement requirements.
Technical Support & Application Engineering
Our applications engineering team supports load cell integration, signal conditioning, and calibration workflows. Reach out with your measurement challenge.
Transcell Technology | Buffalo Grove, IL
sales@transcell.com