Product Description

TCM350 miniature threaded inline load cell overview

The TCM350 is a compact, 17-4PH stainless steel miniature inline load cell with
1/2-20 male threads on both the active and fixed ends, designed to measure tension and compression forces in
mechanical systems where a traditional load cell simply won't fit. Rather than mounting alongside a
structure, the TCM350 threads directly into the load path itself, replacing a bolt, rod end, or structural
connector, making it the practical choice when space, packaging, and ease of integration matter more than
laboratory-grade accuracy. Available in a single ±5 klbf capacity, it is well suited for applications like
automotive suspension testing, robotics force feedback, actuator load monitoring, and embedded machine
sensing where the sensor needs to disappear into the mechanism. It is a direct improved-accuracy drop-in
replacement for the FUTEK FSH04078 (±5 klbf).

Capacity
±5 klbf
single capacity

Nonlinearity
±0.25%
of full scale

Construction
17-4PH
stainless steel / IP64

Thread
1/2-20
male both ends


Typical applications

The TCM350 is commonly specified for tension and compression force measurement
in automated assembly equipment, robotics, and OEM systems where a compact, 1/2-20 threaded inline sensor is
required.

Automotive and suspension testing
The TCM350 threads directly into suspension linkages, tie rods, and
control arm assemblies in automotive test rigs, allowing engineers to measure real-world forces
within the suspension geometry without modifying the structure or adding external brackets.

OEM machine integration
The compact cylindrical body and standard male thread pattern make the
TCM350 easy to integrate directly into OEM actuator assemblies, press heads, clamping
mechanisms, and custom force measurement platforms without additional brackets or adapters.

Robotics and force feedback systems
In robotic arms, grippers, and automated assembly systems, the TCM350
can be threaded directly into a joint or linkage to provide real-time force feedback without
adding bulk to the mechanism. Its compact form factor and analog mV/V output make it
straightforward to integrate with robot controllers, PLCs, and DAQ systems for closed-loop force
control.

Quality control and production testing
Ideal for end-of-line force validation, insertion force testing, and
push/pull QC stations in manufacturing environments. The TCM350's upgraded accuracy over
comparable miniature load cells ensures consistent, reliable pass/fail measurements across
high-volume production runs.

Inline tension and compression measurement
The double-ended male thread design allows the TCM350 to function as a
true inline force sensor in tension or compression, threading directly between two structural
components in a load path. This includes cable assemblies, actuator rods, and structural
connectors, all without external mounting hardware.

Harsh and demanding environments
Constructed from 17-4PH precipitation-hardened stainless steel with an
IP64 rating, the TCM350 withstands dust, light moisture, and the mechanical demands of
industrial test environments where standard alloy steel sensors would corrode or degrade over
time.


Technical notes

Installation and alignment

The TCM350 requires precise axial alignment between its two threaded
connection points. Off-axis or side loading will degrade accuracy and may cause fatigue damage to
the compact sensing element. Threaded rods or adapters must be engaged a minimum of one full thread
diameter into each male thread to ensure structural integrity. Apply torque only at the hex body of
the load cell using an open-end wrench, never through the sensing element. For best results, use
swivel rod ends or spherical bearings to allow self-alignment under load.

System integration

The TCM350 operates at a rated excitation of 10V DC/AC (15V max) and produces
a 2 mV/V analog output signal via a shielded 4-conductor 28 AWG integrated cable (3 ft / 1 m). It is
compatible with any standard force indicator, DAQ system, or PLC analog input accepting a mV/V
bridge signal. The shielded cable minimizes noise pickup in electrically demanding industrial and
test environments. It is a verified improved-accuracy drop-in replacement for the FUTEK FSH04078 (±5
klbf).

Key specifications
Rated output
2 mV/V

Nonlinearity / Hysteresis
±0.25%

Non-repeatability
±0.05%

Temp. effect on output
±0.02%

Operating temp. range
15°F 160°F

Insulation resistance
≥5 GΩ

Input impedance
410 Ω

Output impedance
350 Ω

Cable wiring

The TCM350 ships with a 3 ft (1 m) shielded 4-conductor
28 AWG integrated cable. Standard color code:

■ RED +Excitation
■ BLACK −Excitation
■ GREEN +Signal
■ WHITE −Signal
Drop-in replacement for

The TCM350 is a direct improved-accuracy mechanical and
electrical substitute for the following FUTEK load cell model. No wiring or mounting changes are
required:

FUTEK FSH04078

Specifications

 

Dimensions / 3D Drawings

Note: You may need a software that can open/view STEP files.

Interchangeable

Transcell Part IDFutek SeriesFutek Crossover
TCM325-2KLBFLCM325FSH04009
TCM325-3KLBFLCM325FSH04006
TCM325-13KNLCM325FSH04007
TCM350-5KLBFLCM350FSH04078
TCM350-22KNLCM350FSH04080
TCM375-7.5KLBFLCM375FSH04081
TCM375-10KLBFLCM375FSH04082
TCM375-45KNLCM375FSH04084

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