The Omega LCKD-50 is a subminiature, compression-only strain-gage load cell rated for 50 lbf (222 N). Machined from stainless steel with an integral load button, it delivers a 2 mV/V nominal millivolt bridge output at +/-0.25% FSO and mounts on a smooth, flat surface at least the 0.38 in (D1) diameter. Each unit ships with a 5-point NIST-traceable calibration sheet and 59 kohm shunt data for fast field calibration checks.
Specifications per the OMEGA LCKD/LCMKD Series product datasheet and User's Guide M4087 (Rev. 0305).
Overview
OMEGA's LCKD Series subminiature compression load cells pack high-performance strain gaging into a package small enough to fit confined assemblies, jigs, and test fixtures. All-stainless-steel construction and precision gaging give excellent long-term stability in demanding environments, while a miniature temperature-compensation board built into the cable holds accuracy across the rated range. The LCKD-50 is a compression-only unit; the load button is machined as an integral part of the body and the cell must rest on a flat surface at least the D1 diameter for proper operation.
Best for
- Compression force measurement in tight spaces where a full-size load cell will not fit
- Test stands, fixtures, and embedded force sensing up to 50 lbf
- Bench and field applications needing millivolt output to a DPiS, DP41-S, or DP25B-S meter
- Quick field calibration checks via the built-in 59 kohm shunt
Key Features
Subminiature stainless build
All-stainless-steel body with the load button machined as an integral part — rugged and compact for confined mounting.
50 lbf / 222 N compression
Compression-only range with 2 mV/V nominal output from a 350 ohm bridge.
+/-0.25% FSO accuracy
Linearity and hysteresis each +/-0.25% FSO; repeatability +/-0.10% FSO for repeatable readings.
5-point NIST-traceable cal
Ships with a 0/50/100/50/0% calibration sheet and 59 kohm shunt data for field calibration checks.
In-cable temperature compensation
A miniature board in the 5 ft cable compensates span and zero. Do not remove the board or cut the cable.
Wide range, IP54
Operates -65 to 250 F (-54 to 121 C) with 150% safe overload and IP54 protection.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Omega LCKD-50 |
| Measurement type | Compression only |
| Rated capacity | 50 lbf (222 N) |
| Rated output | 2 mV/V nominal |
| Excitation | 5 Vdc (7 Vdc max) |
| Bridge resistance | 350 ohm |
| Linearity | +/-0.25% FSO |
| Hysteresis | +/-0.25% FSO |
| Repeatability | +/-0.10% FSO |
| Zero balance | +/-2% FSO |
| Calibration | 5-point NIST-traceable (0/50/100/50/0%); 59 kohm shunt data |
| Operating temp range | -65 to 250 F (-54 to 121 C) |
| Compensated temp range | 60 to 160 F (16 to 71 C) |
| Thermal effect, span | +/-0.018% FSO per C |
| Thermal effect, zero | +/-0.009% FSO per C |
| Safe overload | 150% of capacity |
| Ultimate overload | 300% of capacity |
| Full scale deflection | 0.001 to 0.003 in |
| Construction | Stainless steel |
| Protection class | IP54 |
| Electrical connection | 5 ft (1.5 m) 4-conductor cable with temperature-compensation board |
| Wiring | RED +EXC, BLACK -EXC, GREEN -OUTPUT, WHITE +OUTPUT |
| Dimensions, in (mm) | D1 0.38 (9.6), D2 0.09 (2.2), H 0.12 (3.0), B 0.03 (0.76), C 0.04 (1.0), F 0.05 (1.3), R 0.25 (6.3) |
| Weight | <0.5 oz (<14 g) |
| Compatible meters | DPiS, DP41-S, DP25B-S |
Documentation
LCKD / LCMKD Series DatasheetRelated Products
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the load range of the Omega LCKD-50?
The LCKD-50 measures compression force up to 50 lbf (222 N). It is a compression-only load cell and does not measure tension.
What output does the LCKD-50 provide?
It produces a 2 mV/V nominal millivolt signal from a 350 ohm strain-gage bridge. Supply 5 Vdc excitation (7 Vdc maximum) and read the output on a compatible meter such as a DPiS, DP41-S, or DP25B-S.
How do I calibrate the LCKD-50 in the field?
Use shunt calibration: short a 59 kohm resistor across negative excitation and negative output to produce a simulated load, then adjust your meter span to the calculated value. Each cell ships with a 5-point NIST-traceable calibration sheet and 59 kohm shunt data.
Can I cut or remove the small board in the cable?
No. The miniature board in the cable provides temperature compensation. Removing the board or cutting the cable between it and the load cell voids the calibration and the warranty.
What surface should the LCKD-50 be mounted on?
Mount it on a smooth, flat surface at least as large as the D1 diameter (0.38 in for the LCKD-50) so the cell seats correctly under load.
OMEGA limited warranty: warranted free of defects in materials and workmanship for 1 year (13 months effective with OMEGA's 1-month shipping/handling grace period) from date of purchase. The warranty is void if the unit is tampered with, modified, or damaged by misuse, corrosion, excessive current/heat/moisture/vibration, or operation outside design limits. Removing the in-cable temperature-compensation board or cutting the cable voids calibration and warranty. Not for use in human or nuclear applications.
- Load Cells:
- Industrial Subminiature
- Measurement Type:
- Compression
- Capacity:
- 50 lbf
- Rated Output:
- 2 mV/V
- Accuracy:
- ±0.25% FSO
- Excitation:
- 5 Vdc
- Bridge Resistance:
- 350 ohm
- Construction:
- Stainless Steel
- Outer Diameter:
- 0.38 in
- Cable Length:
- 5 ft
- Calibration:
- NIST-Traceable
