Design of a load cell for measuring ultrasonic percussive drilling forces

In this article a novel design of a load cell for the measurement of highly dynamic forces generated during high-frequency percussive drilling is pres ented. It allows for a high-volume accurate measurement of low-amplitude an d high-frequency (ultrasonic) dynamic forces while retaining high mechanica l stiffness. The load cell consists of three piezotransducers mounted betwe en the base and the top disc. To achieve a required level of signal synchro nization between the signals from individual transducers, the piezotransduc ers are appropriately preloaded. The paper discusses the design procedure, instrumentation set-up and sample experimental measurements.