Product Description

TCM375 miniature threaded inline load cell overview

The TCM375 is a compact, 17-4PH stainless steel miniature inline load cell with M16x2 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 TCM375 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 ±45 kN 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 FSH04084 (±45 kN).

Capacity
±45 kN
single capacity
Nonlinearity
±0.25%
of full scale
Construction
17-4PH
stainless steel / IP64
Thread
M16x2
male both ends

Typical applications

The TCM375 is commonly specified for tension and compression force measurement in automated assembly equipment, robotics, and OEM systems where a compact, M16x2 threaded inline sensor is required.

Automotive and suspension testing
The TCM375 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 TCM375 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 TCM375 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 TCM375'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 TCM375 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 TCM375 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 TCM375 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 TCM375 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 FSH04084 (±45 kN).

Key specifications
Rated output
2 mV/V ±1% zero bal.
Nonlinearity / Hysteresis
±0.25% FS each
Non-repeatability
±0.05% of FS
Temp. effect on output
±0.02% RDG/°F
Operating temp. range
15°F to 160°F
Insulation resistance
≥5 GΩ at 50V DC
Input impedance
410 Ω ± 30 Ω
Output impedance
350 Ω ± 5 Ω

Cable wiring

The TCM375 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 TCM375 is a direct improved-accuracy mechanical and electrical substitute for the following FUTEK load cell model. No wiring or mounting changes are required:

FUTEK FSH04084 (±45 kN)

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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