{"id":10153,"date":"2026-01-12T08:00:24","date_gmt":"2026-01-12T13:00:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.wika.com\/us\/\/?p=10153"},"modified":"2026-01-12T15:04:24","modified_gmt":"2026-01-12T20:04:24","slug":"what-are-load-pins","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.wika.com\/us\/knowhow\/what-are-load-pins\/","title":{"rendered":"Understanding Load Pins: What They Are, How They Work, and Where to Use Them"},"content":{"rendered":"

Load pins act as both structural connecting components and high-precision force measurement devices. By replacing existing standard pins, these specialized force transducers promote operational safety and machine efficiency, even in harsh working conditions.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Updated Jan. 12, 2026<\/em>
\nClevis and other structural pins securely connect two machine components, such as in hoist and crane systems and in towing winches. A load pin also connects two component, but with the additional ability of measuring and monitoring the force acting upon it. For this reason, load pins are also called clevis load pins.<\/p>\n\n

WIKA load pins<\/p><\/div>\n \n

What is a load pin?<\/h2>\n

A load pin<\/a> is a type of load cell that looks and acts like a regular cylindrical pin connecting two components, but with the addition of a strain gauge<\/a> that precisely measures the tensile and compression forces acting on the sensor. By taking the place of non-measuring retaining bolts, load pins are easy to integrate into existing systems.<\/p>\n

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How does a load pin work?<\/h2>\n\n

A load pin connects two force-transmitting machine elements and<\/i> measures the force acting on its sensor.<\/p><\/div>\n \n

A load pin works by measuring the force acting on its sensor. Embedded within a load pin\u2019s drilled out spaces are strain gauges that detect the pin\u2019s minute physical deformation as force is applied to it. This deformation produces a tiny change in electrical resistance, which the strain gauges convert into a proportional output signal. This signal is typically 4\u202620 mA or 0\u202610 V, with the option for redundant output signals and CANopen\u00ae communication protocol. Load pins with strain gauges can measure both static and dynamic forces.<\/div>\n

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Where are load pins installed?<\/h2>\n\n

Load pins can be used anywhere with a pivot or joint where loads naturally pass through a pin connection.<\/p><\/div>\n \n

Load pins are installed at the connection point between two force-transmitting elements, taking the place of clevis pins and other conventional retaining pins. They can be used anywhere with a pivot or joint where loads naturally pass through a pin connection.<\/p>\n

These specialized force transducers are mounted axially as well as against rotation. A microscopic gap (~1\/5 of a millimeter) between the axle retainer and the slot enables free bending in the thrust bearing.<\/p>\n

Which industrial applications use load pin load cells?<\/h2>\n

Load pins are widely used in lifting gear such as boom cranes<\/a>, offshore cranes<\/a>, anchor-handling systems, and other lifting machinery to prevent dangerous overload conditions<\/a>. These force transducers are also found in guide pulleys and roller bearings, industrial weighing technology, and production automation.<\/p>\n

Clevis load pins are used in many industries to prevent overload and improve safety:<\/p>\n