Dynamometers are the go-to tools for tension, force, and suspended load measurement in industrial environments. Unlike crane scales, which focus primarily on weight, dynamometers excel at measuring force in pulling, lifting, and load-testing applications—making them essential in manufacturing, construction, rigging, utilities, aerospace, and safety certification work.
On Hogentogler’s Dynamometers page, you’ll find rugged overhead tension meters designed to be lifted into the load path, giving you real-time force readings while keeping operators safely out of danger. This guide breaks down how to choose the right dynamometer based on capacity, readability, construction, environmental conditions, and the specific use case.
Capacity dominates the decision: Models on this page range from 1,000 lb up to 250 tons (depending on SKU).
Readability varies by load class: From 1 lb increments at lower capacities to 500 lb increments at higher ranges.
Safety is critical: Look for overload protection, robust shackles, and durable housings.
Remote readability: Wireless handheld indicators keep users clear of the load path.
Ideal for tension testing: Perfect for crane load checks, line tensioning, proof testing, and force measurement.
Dynamometers measure tension force, not just suspended weight. That makes them indispensable anywhere cables, cranes, anchors, slings, or hoists are being tested or monitored. They’re widely used for safety inspections, load monitoring, and heavy-lifting verification, ensuring equipment and structures can handle the stresses placed upon them.
Hogentogler’s Dynamometers are built for tough industrial environments, featuring high-strength housings, bright displays, and remote control/readout capability for maximum safety.
The key specification for any dynamometer is its force capacity. The models on this page span:
Largest mechanical & digital units reach up to 250 tons
Readability ranges from fine (1–2 lb) on lower capacities to coarse (200–500 lb) on massive industrial units
These broad ranges cover everything from small tensioning tasks to heavy-duty hoisting and industrial rigging.
Higher-capacity dynamometers necessarily have coarser readability, but still maintain excellent accuracy for industrial load testing.
Industrial dynamometers take a beating, so design matters:
Alloy steel or aircraft-grade aluminum housings provide strength with manageable weight.
High-strength shackles keep the load path secure.
Internal protection against shock loads helps prevent damage.
Weather-resistant enclosures support indoor and outdoor use.
Bright, high-contrast displays remain readable in daylight or warehouse conditions.
The models listed on the page are built specifically for environments with vibration, over-the-shoulder lifting, steel cable tension, and unpredictable loads.
Many models include handheld wireless indicators, which offer important safety advantages:
Operators can stand at a safe distance during lifts.
Readouts remain visible even when the dynamometer is high in the air.
Remotes often include features like zero, peak hold, and unit switching.
Large-format remotes make readings easy to see even with gloves or PPE.
For teams working under cranes, in confined shipyards, or on tugs or rigs, wireless remote visibility is a must-have.
Depending on the model, dynamometers on this page may include:
Peak hold for capturing maximum force or lift
Set-point alarms to alert if loads exceed safe limits
Tare and zero functions
Selectable units (lb, kg, kN)
Overload warnings
Long battery life to support field work
Backlit displays for low-light use
Some models even allow continuous monitoring for long tensioning sessions such as winch pulls, cable tightening, anchoring work, or crane safety tests.
Dynamometers shine in industries where force testing and overhead load verification are routine:
Construction & rigging: Checking line tension, verifying crane loads, proof-testing lifting gear.
Manufacturing: Monitoring pull forces or mechanical stress.
Utilities & telecom: Tensioning cable and aerial line work.
Maritime: Monitoring towing force, mooring loads, and winch pulls.
Warehousing & logistics: Confirming heavy lift loads before movement.
Safety compliance: Certifying slings, chains, hoists, and crane systems.
Because dynamometers can measure force dynamically, they work in environments where traditional crane scales are limited.
Working with tension forces always involves risk. To ensure safe operation:
Select a dynamometer with capacity significantly above your maximum expected load.
Inspect shackles, pins, and connectors before each use.
Avoid shock loading and jerking motions.
Keep clear of the load path at all times.
Use the wireless remote to maintain safe distance.
Calibrate periodically based on manufacturer guidelines.
Construction: alloy steel or aluminum housing
Safety: overload protection, high-strength shackles
Display: bright LCD/LED, often handheld wireless
Units: lb, kg, sometimes kN
Functions: tare, peak hold, alarms
Power: battery operation for field use
Environment: indoor/outdoor, weather-resistant housings
How is a dynamometer different from a crane scale?
Crane scales focus on suspended load weight; dynamometers measure tension force, making them ideal for line tests, pull measurements, and load certification.
Can dynamometers be used outdoors?
Yes. Most models include weather-resistant housings and wireless remotes for outdoor rigging, construction, or marine environments.
How accurate are dynamometers?
Accuracy depends on capacity and resolution. Lower-capacity units offer finer increments, but all models are engineered for reliable industrial-grade force measurement.
Can dynamometers be used for billing by weight?
No. They are not legal-for-trade devices. They are for force/tension measurement, not commercial transactions.
Do dynamometers need calibration?
Yes. Regular calibration ensures accuracy, especially after heavy use or shock loading.
Dynamometers — https://www.hogentogler.com/industrial-scales/dynamometers.asp
Crane Scales — https://www.hogentogler.com/industrial-scales/crane-scales.asp
Pallet Truck Scales — https://www.hogentogler.com/industrial-scales/pallet-truck-scales.asp