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SAUTER FK 1K Digital Force Gauge, Tensile and Compressive Force, Max. 1000 N

Product information "SAUTER FK 1K Digital Force Gauge, Tensile and Compressive Force, Max. 1000 N"

The Sauter FK 1K measures tensile and compressive forces up to 1,000 N (i.e. up to 1 kN) and has a readability of 0.5 N. It measures twice as much as the FK 500 and is suitable when forces exceed 500 N. The display rotates automatically; the housing fits comfortably in the hand and can also be bolted onto a Sauter test stand rated up to 5 kN.

What the device measures

The device measures tensile and compressive forces. The tolerance is 0.5 % of maximum, the overload protection is 200 % of maximum, and the measurement frequency is 1,000 Hz. In peak-hold mode, the maximum value remains on the display for around 10 seconds; in track mode, the display continuously tracks the force. Units are N, lbf, kg and ozf, and an auto-power-off function saves battery power.

For forces of a few hundred newtons, a readability of 0.5 N is generally sufficient. Anyone working with forces below 100 N and requiring readability to the nearest tenth of a newton should choose a device with a smaller measuring range. The FK 500, for example, has a readability of 0.2 N, whilst the FC 500 has a readability of 0.1 N.

Mounting and accessories

Force is applied via an M8 external thread. Clamps with an M6 internal thread can be connected using the AFM 22 thread adapter. According to Kern, the device is compatible with all Sauter test stands up to 5 kN. A hook for tensile force and the standard attachments are included, along with a 90 mm extension rod.

Display and power

The LCD has digits 18 mm high. The plastic housing measures 195 x 83 x 35 mm; the device weighs approximately 0.5 kg net. It runs on six AA batteries (1.5 V) for approximately 25 hours or via the mains adaptor (100 V to 240 V). The mains adaptor and batteries are included, as are country-specific adaptors for the EU, UK, US and Switzerland. The device operates at ambient temperatures between 10 °C and 30 °C.

Typical applications

  • Test laboratories: tensile and compressive forces on joints, springs and components up to 1 kN
  • Automotive industry: actuation and holding forces on fasteners, latches and levers
  • Maintenance and servicing: checking spring forces and adjustment forces on equipment
  • Plastics engineering: pull-off and compressive forces on plastic parts
  • Research and development: force curves in test set-ups

Practical guidance

When testing springs or fasteners, the force is best applied uniformly so that repeat measurements remain comparable. This can be achieved more reliably on a test stand than by hand.

Regulatory information

As an electrical device, the device falls under the ElektroG. The manufacturer Kern & Sohn GmbH is registered under the WEEE registration number DE 80821200. How to return old appliances is described on the page Environment and disposal.

Frequently asked questions

When should I use the FK 1K instead of the FK 500? For forces exceeding 500 N. The FK 1K measures up to 1,000 N and has a readability of 0.5 N, whilst the FK 500 has a readability of 0.2 N.

Does the device measure both tension and compression? Yes, both directions of force. According to Kern, the display rotates automatically.

How long do the batteries last? According to the data sheet, around 25 hours with six AA batteries. Alternatively, the device can be powered by the mains adaptor.

What attachments are included? Standard attachments with hooks for tensile force and a 90 mm extension rod. Clamps and other attachments are also available.

How long is the warranty? According to Kern & Sohn, this device comes with a 2-year warranty. Kern grants 3 years on products with a list price of €500 or more and 2 years on products below that and on components; wear parts such as batteries and rechargeable batteries are excluded. Warranty repairs are carried out by Kern or by a Kern dealer.

Technical details

Measuring range (max)1,000 N (1 kN)
Readability (d)0.5 N
Force directionTension and compression
Tolerance0.5 % of maximum
Overload protection200 % of maximum
Measurement frequency1,000 Hz
FunctionsHold, Peak, Track, Auto-Power-Off
UnitsN, lbf, kg, ozf
DisplayLCD, digit height 18 mm, rotatable
Force applicationM8 external thread
Housing (W x D x H)195 x 83 x 35 mm, plastic
Power supplyMains adaptor or 6 x 1.5 V AA
Battery lifeapprox. 25 h
Ambient temperature10 °C to 30 °C
Net weightapprox. 0.5 kg

Scope of delivery

  • Sauter FK 1K force gauge
  • Standard attachments with hooks for tensile force, as shown in the product image
  • 90 mm extension rod
  • Mains adaptor with plug adaptors for the EU, UK, US and Switzerland
  • 6 AA batteries (1.5 V)

Individual requirements and procurement service

Clamps, adaptors and other attachments are also available, as well as factory and DAkkS calibration certificates for tension, compression or both directions. Enquiries are handled via our procurement service.