Chain Hoist Test Set Digitises Overload Inspections

WIKA has relaunched its FRKPS chain hoist test set, introducing a redesigned hand-held indicator for measuring force on electrical overload protection systems and friction clutches. The system is designed to support inspection procedures for industrial chain hoists without requiring conventional test weights, enabling force measurement and automated documentation during maintenance checks.

The updated FRKPS targets applications where periodic verification of overload protection systems is required to maintain operational safety and regulatory compliance.

Force measurement supports chain hoist overload protection testing
The FRKPS system measures activation forces for friction clutches and electrical overload protection mechanisms by integrating a force transducer with chain adapters and a digital indicator. During testing, the force transducer is connected to the chain and pulled against the chain hoist until the overload protection or friction clutch activates.

Operators can read measured force values directly on the indicator or transfer stored data to WIKA software for automated generation of inspection records. Digital documentation may simplify compliance processes associated with periodic equipment inspections under machinery safety regulations. The current EU Machinery Directive will be replaced by the EU Machinery Regulation from 20 January 2027.

High measurement capacity and data storage for industrial maintenance
The FRKPS supports load ranges from 40 kg to 3,500 kg with stated measurement accuracy below ±0.5%. The force transducer uses a shear load cell architecture intended to minimise sensitivity to parasitic forces and external moments that may affect measurement consistency.

The battery-powered hand-held indicator provides up to 13 hours of operating time and stores up to 30 datasets containing one million measurement points each. Higher sampling rates and large storage capacity may support analysis of dynamic force behaviour during overload testing procedures.

Adapter compatibility expands use across chain hoist configurations
The system includes centring sleeves and chain adapters compatible with chain dimensions ranging from 3 × 9 mm to 11 × 31 mm according to DIN ISO 606. Compatibility across multiple chain formats allows use with different industrial lifting systems without requiring dedicated measurement equipment for each configuration.

The updated FRKPS is supplied as a complete set including transport case, force transducer, adapters, indicator and software.

Edited by Natania Lyngdoh, Induportals editor, assisted by AI.

www.wika.com