Measuring force

Mechanical dynamometer

Simple and robust

Our range of mechanical force gauges is designed to meet the most demanding tension and compression measurement needs. Made in France.

  • COFRAC
  • Made in France
  • Dedicated After sale

Durability and precision

Our mechanical force gauges provide reliable tension and compression measurements, without the need for electronics, for your most demanding environments.

Accuracy

±4%

Scope

60—300 daN

Maximum stroke

60—100 mm

Units

daN / kgf / lbf

  • UIndustry
  • UAeronautics
  • UAutomotive
  • UQuality Control
  • UTension
  • UCompression

Our product line

Discover our mechanical dynamometers

Mechanical model

TX Traction

TX mechanical tension dynamometer

Compact and robust, with a stop to protect it from overloads, the TX mechanical force gauge measures tensile forces. Since it has no delicate mechanisms, it is not affected by temperature fluctuations or inclement weather.

  • ELoad capacities 60 to 300 daN
  • EOverload limit switch
  • EDisengageable maximum index
  • EWeather-resistant

Mechanical model

CX Compression

CX Mechanical Compression Tester

Compact and rugged, with a stop that protects it from overloads, the CX mechanical force gauge is designed to measure compressive forces.

  • ELoad capacities 60 to 300 daN
  • EOverload limit switch
  • EDisengageable maximum index
  • EWeather-resistant

Why Choose Us

The advantages of our mechanical force gauges

Accurate and easy to read

Accuracy of ±4% with instantaneous readings on a graduated scale, and a disengageable maximum indicator for optimal monitoring of your measurements.

Robustness and reliability

Mechanical design with no fragile mechanisms, guaranteeing high resistance to temperature variations and the elements. Safety factor 5

French manufacturing and certification

Product designed and manufactured in France, ensuring quality and compliance with standards. Comes with a calibration certificate ensuring the traceability of measurements.

Comparison

Which mechanical dynamometer should you choose?

↔ Scroll down to see all the models
Specifications TX 60 / CX 60 TX 100 / CX 100 TX 150 / CX 150 TX 200 / CX 200 TX 300 / CX 300
Scope (daN) 60 100 150 200 300
Graduation (daN) 1 1 2 2 5
Maximum stroke (mm) 60 100 100 100 100
Case Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) 60×60×140 60×60×230 60×60×230 60×60×230 60×60×230

Business Sectors

Our main areas of expertise

Packaging & Bottling

Measurement of closure and pull-off forces on vials, bottles, and cans. Random sampling inspection on the production line.

Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics

Measurement of insertion and extraction forces on metering pumps, aerosol dispensers, and closure systems. Metrological traceability is ensured.

Food & Beverage & Packaging

Opening force for flexible packaging, strength of lids and seals, peelability testing on packaging lines.

Automotive & Aerospace

Testing of tensile forces on cables, connectors, and mechanical assemblies. Verification of critical extraction forces.

Industries & Assembly

Measurement of spring insertion, insertion, and compression forces. Qualification of assembly positions.

R&D & Laboratories

Material characterization, tensile and compression testing of samples, and repeated measurements in a test environment.

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Note

Our solutions are suitable for many other industrial sectors. Please feel free to contact us to discuss your specific needs.

For any special requests, our team of technicians will conduct a project analysis to offer you the best value for your money.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ — Everything You Need to Know About Mechanical Dynamometers

01

What is a mechanical dynamometer?

A mechanical dynamometer is a measuring device used to verify and monitor the force applied to a mechanical component, whether in tension or compression. Unlike digital force gauges, it operates without electronics and is often used for its robustness and reliability.

02

Why choose a mechanical dynamometer rather than a digital model?

A mechanical dynamometer is ideal for demanding environments where electronics could be affected (dust, humidity, extreme temperature). It is also appreciated for its durability and lack of need for a power supply.

03

How accurate is a mechanical dynamometer?

Accuracy varies by model, but mechanical force gauges generally provide excellent measurement repeatability. Our TX/CX series has a tolerance of approximately ±4% of full scale.

04

What are mechanical dynamometers used for?

They are commonly used in industry, aerospace, the automotive sector, quality control, and any application requiring precise control of the applied force, whether in tension or compression.

05

How does a mechanical dynamometer work?

It uses a system of calibrated springs or elastic deformation to measure the force applied. The measuring needle displays the value directly on a graduated dial.

06

Can a mechanical dynamometer measure different units?

Yes, depending on the model, it can display measurements in decanewtons (daN), kilogram-force (kgf), or pound-force (lbf). Some models also feature double graduation.

07

How long does a mechanical dynamometer last?

A well-maintained mechanical dynamometer can last for decades, thanks to its robust mechanism and the absence of sensitive electronic components.

Force Measurement in Industry : Challenges and Applications

Force measurement is used in the manufacturing of a wide range of products. It is essential wherever tensile or compressive forces need to be measured : opening lids, testing the strength of assemblies, inspecting springs, and conducting material tests. Insufficient force can result in assembly defects or leaks ; excessive force can damage parts or components.

These inspections are essential for addressing safety, quality, and regulatory issues—particularly in the pharmaceutical and food industries.

ACRN offers its mechanical dynamometers in three main application categories :

Packaging Industry

The forces required to remove lids, seal containers, and open them must remain within a specified range : neither too low (risk of leakage or contamination) nor too high (difficult for the end user to open). The dynamometer is the standard instrument used for this inspection, which involves random sampling from the production line.

Quality Control and Mechanical Testing

Tensile and compression tests on cables, springs, connectors, and assemblies are used to verify that components meet specifications. The mechanical dynamometer, which has no electronic components, is ideal for quick checks in the workshop or on-site.

Lifting, Material Handling, and Maintenance

In the lifting and industrial maintenance sectors, measuring tensile forces is a fundamental safety parameter. Durable and weather-resistant, our TX dynamometers are suitable for outdoor testing and use in harsh environments.

What is a mechanical dynamometer ?

A mechanical dynamometer is a precision instrument that measures the force applied to an object, whether in tension or compression. Force is measured in decanewtons (daN), kilogram-force (kgf), or pound-force (lbf). Unlike electronic models, it operates without a power source and provides a direct reading on a graduated scale, with a detachable maximum indicator.

There are several technologies available depending on the application : mechanical tensile (TX) and compression (CX) testers for robust testing without electronics, electronic testers for traceability and data export, and tensile/compression testing machines for automated laboratory testing.

How to Choose a Mechanical Dynamometer ?

The choice depends on several factors : the direction of the force (tensile force TX or compressive force CX), the force range to be measured (from 60 to 300 daN), the desired scale, and the operating environment. ACRN supports its clients from needs analysis through to implementation : selecting the model and scope, and integrating it into the existing quality system. Our equipment is designed to be durable, scalable, and serviceable, with the longest lifespan on the market.