SCHUNK FT Force Torque Sensor Review: Specs, Price and Applications
The SCHUNK FT is a six-axis force/torque sensor that measures Fx, Fy, Fz, Mx, My and Mz at the robot flange. Strain gauges detect the deformation of the sensor body in all six degrees of freedom, and the signals are amplified inside the sensor before being sent to the controller.
The FT family is offered in many sizes with different measuring ranges and with IP60, IP65 or optional IP68 protection. Integrated temperature compensation keeps the accuracy defined, and the coordinate system can be rotated and translated in three directions to put the measuring point exactly where the process happens.
Quick Verdict
A proven sensor platform for force-controlled processes such as assembly, polishing, testing and teaching. Wide size coverage and high protection classes make it suitable for both light cobots and harsh industrial cells.
SCHUNK FT Force Torque Sensor at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Measured axes | Fx, Fy, Fz, Mx, My, Mz |
Sensing principle | Strain gauges, signal amplification in the sensor |
Sizes | Many sizes with different measuring ranges |
Protection class | IP60, IP65, optional IP68 |
Compensation | Integrated temperature compensation |
Coordinate system | Rotation and translation in three spatial directions |
Overload | Robust design with higher overload range |
Cable | Flexible sensor cable shielding against electrical fields and mechanical loads |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
A six-axis sensor is a precisely machined elastic structure instrumented with strain gauges. Every force or moment applied at the tool produces a unique combination of strains, which the calibration matrix converts into three forces and three moments. Amplifying the signals inside the sensor keeps the low-level strain-gauge signals short and less sensitive to noise.
Temperature compensation is essential because strain gauges drift with temperature. With compensation built in, the sensor holds its specified accuracy as the robot and process warm up.
Shifting and rotating the coordinate system lets the controller report forces at the tool tip, for example at a polishing disc or a peg in an assembly, rather than at the flange.
Integration and Selection
Select the measuring range from the expected process forces plus the static load of the tool, and check overload capacity for collisions and accelerations. A range that is too large reduces resolution; too small risks overload.
Plan the data interface and the control loop: force control, monitoring or quality recording each require different update rates and software in the robot controller or PLC.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Automotive assembly | Force-controlled insertion and joining |
Surface finishing | Constant-force grinding and polishing |
Electronics | Connector mating with force verification |
Quality testing | Recording force curves for component testing |
Functional Uses
Force-controlled assembly and insertion
Constant contact force in finishing
Process monitoring and quality data
Hand-guiding and teaching robots
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Full six-axis measurement
Many sizes and ranges
Up to IP68 protection
Integrated temperature compensation
Limitations
Requires calibration and tool-load compensation
Range selection affects resolution
Software integration effort for force control
Who Should Consider the SCHUNK FT Force Torque Sensor?
The FT fits engineers implementing force-controlled assembly, finishing or testing on industrial robots, including in wet or dusty environments.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. SCHUNK prices the FT by size, options and quantity, so the final figure depends on the exact configuration. Budget for the complete tooling package, including fingers or adapters, mounting, air or electrical connections and commissioning time, rather than the module alone.
Further Reading
SCHUNK FT Force Torque Sensor FAQ
What does the SCHUNK FT measure?
Forces and moments in six degrees of freedom: Fx, Fy, Fz, Mx, My and Mz.
Which protection classes are available?
IP60 and IP65, with IP68 as an option.
Is the FT temperature compensated?
Yes, it has integrated temperature compensation for defined accuracy.
Can the measuring point be moved to the tool tip?
Yes. The coordinate system can be rotated and translated in three spatial directions.
Which applications use the FT?
Force-controlled assembly, grinding and polishing, testing and robot teaching.
How much does the FT cost?
Price depends on size, range and interface. Request a quote from SCHUNK.
