Digital Dynamometers for Overhead Weighing and Load Monitoring
Digital dynamometers are used to measure tension and force during lifting, rigging, and load monitoring applications. Unlike crane scales, which measure the total weight of a suspended load, dynamometers are designed to monitor the forces acting on rigging components during a lift.
American Scale Supply offers a range of digital dynamometers engineered for industrial environments where accuracy, durability, and safety are critical. These devices are commonly used in overhead lifting operations, structural rigging, load testing, and engineered lifts where understanding tension and applied force is essential.
Our dynamometers are available in a wide range of capacities and resolutions to support everything from light-duty rigging to extreme-duty industrial lifting applications.
What Is a Dynamometer?
A dynamometer is a force-measuring device installed in-line with rigging hardware to measure tension rather than weight. It provides real-time feedback on the forces applied during a lift, helping operators verify safe working loads and detect uneven or excessive loading.
Dynamometers are often used when:
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Loads are lifted at an angle
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Multiple lifting points are involved
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Rigging forces must be verified for safety
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Weight alone does not tell the full story
Because they measure force directly, dynamometers are a critical tool for engineered lifts and safety-critical applications.
Common Dynamometer Applications
Digital dynamometers are widely used across industrial and commercial lifting environments.
Typical applications include:
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Rigging force monitoring during crane lifts
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Structural and engineered lifting operations
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Cable, line, and sling tension measurement
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Load testing and proof testing of lifting equipment
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Safety verification during complex or multi-point lifts
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Overhead lifting in construction, utilities, and industrial maintenance
These applications require reliable, repeatable force measurement under real-world job-site conditions.
Key Features of Industrial Digital Dynamometers
Most industrial dynamometers offered by American Scale Supply include:
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High-accuracy digital force measurement
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Rugged, corrosion-resistant housings for harsh environments
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Multiple units of measure, including lb, kg, kN, and tons
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Peak hold and load monitoring functions
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Long battery life for extended field use
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Compatibility with standard rigging hardware
Specific features vary by model and capacity.
Choosing the Right Dynamometer
Selecting the correct dynamometer depends on several factors:
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Maximum expected load and required safety margin
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Resolution and accuracy requirements
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Environmental conditions such as moisture, dust, or temperature
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Whether real-time monitoring or peak force capture is required
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Compatibility with existing rigging hardware
If you are unsure which capacity or model is appropriate, our team can help evaluate your application and recommend the correct solution.
Need Help Selecting a Dynamometer?
American Scale Supply provides application-focused support to help ensure you select the right dynamometer for your lifting and rigging requirements. We can assist with capacity sizing, accessory selection, and compatibility questions.
Contact us to discuss your application or request pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Digital Dynamometers
What is a digital dynamometer used for?
A digital dynamometer is used to measure tension or force during lifting and rigging operations. It is installed in-line with rigging hardware to monitor applied load rather than the total weight of a suspended object.
What is the difference between a dynamometer and a crane scale?
A crane scale measures the total weight of a suspended load. A dynamometer measures tension or force within a lifting system. Dynamometers are typically used for rigging safety, engineered lifts, and load monitoring where force measurement is required.
When should I use a dynamometer instead of a crane scale?
A dynamometer should be used when lifts involve angled loads, multiple pick points, or when monitoring rigging forces is critical for safety. If you need to verify tension rather than total weight, a dynamometer is the correct solution.
Are digital dynamometers legal for trade?
Digital dynamometers are generally used for force measurement and safety monitoring, not for commercial transactions. Legal-for-trade requirements usually apply to crane scales rather than dynamometers.
Are shackles included with dynamometers?
Shackles are not typically included. Compatible shackles and rigging hardware are available separately. Please contact American Scale Supply for recommendations and pricing based on your application.
Can digital dynamometers be used outdoors or in harsh environments?
Yes. Many industrial dynamometers are designed with NEMA or IP-rated enclosures and corrosion-resistant materials for use in outdoor and harsh industrial environments.
What units of measurement do digital dynamometers support?
Most digital dynamometers support multiple units of measure, including pounds (lb), kilograms (kg), kilonewtons (kN), tons, and metric tons.
Can American Scale Supply help me choose the right dynamometer?
Yes. Our team can help you select the correct dynamometer based on load capacity, resolution requirements, environmental conditions, and the specifics of your lifting or rigging application.