Klemmmeter

Klemmmeter is a class of measuring instrument designed to quantify the clamping force exerted by a clamp, fixture, or joining device on a workpiece. It is used in manufacturing, assembly, and laboratory testing to ensure process control and repeatability.

Most Klemmmeter devices operate by sensing the deformation of a calibrated element or by integrating a force sensor such as a load cell, strain gauge, or piezoelectric element placed at or near the clamping interface. The sensor output is converted to a force value and, in modern devices, displayed digitally or transmitted to a data acquisition system. Calibration against traceable standards is required for accuracy.

Design variants range from inline adapters built into clamps to portable hand-held units that grip a surface and measure the resulting force. Some devices also estimate contact pressure distribution by mapping multiple sensor points across the contact area. Materials and temperature compensation are important for stability.

Applications include quality control of fastener and adhesive joints, press-fitting processes, cryogenic or high-temperature assemblies, and experimental research where repeatable clamping is essential.

Etymology: the term Klemmmeter derives from the German Klemm, meaning to clamp, combined with meter. In engineering literature the term appears as a generic descriptor for force-measurement devices used at clamps, rather than referring to a single standardized instrument.

Standards: Measurements are typically aligned with general force measurement standards, such as ISO 376 for force verification, and device-specific calibration certificates. Limitations include sensitivity to surface conditions, misalignment, hysteresis, and temperature drift; proper calibration and maintenance are required for accuracy.

Related topics include load cell, force gauge, torque wrench, and clamping force measurement.