How Load Links Work

Load links are tension load cells designed to measure force in lifting and rigging applications. They are commonly used with cranes, hoists, shackles and other lifting equipment to monitor loads safely and accurately.

A load link replaces a standard shackle or lifting link in the rigging system. As the load is applied, the body of the load link experiences a small amount of deformation. This deformation is extremely small but can be measured using strain gauges inside the load cell.

Strain gauges are sensors bonded to the metal body of the load link. When the load link is placed under tension, the metal stretches slightly. The strain gauges detect this change and convert it into an electrical signal.

The electrical signal is then processed by electronics and converted into a load reading, which can be displayed on a handheld display, data logger or monitoring system.

Because the deformation is proportional to the applied force, the system can provide very accurate measurements across the load cell’s rated capacity.

Load links are widely used in industries where monitoring lifting loads is important for safety and operational control. Common applications include crane lifting, proof load testing, offshore operations and industrial load monitoring.

Their compact design and ease of installation make them a practical solution for measuring loads in existing lifting systems without major modifications.

LOAD-MASTER load links are designed for reliable load measurement in demanding industrial environments.