Straightpoint has launched a new product for measuring tension on static lines—the Clamp On Line Tensionmeter (or COLT)—with a state-of-the-art Bluetooth load monitoring app among a myriad of standout features.

The COLT measures tension on wire rope up to 11,000 lbf (lb. force) / 5,000 kgf (kg force) and up to 1 in. / 25mm diameter. It clamps onto pre-tensioned wire ropes, eliminating the need for additional sheaves or tooling, as is the case with alternative solutions. An integral Bluetooth module, meanwhile, transmits tension data wirelessly to any smart device running the Android or iOS app that also contains an infinite wire rope library. Tension in wire ropes can be measured and logged within a few seconds.

David Ayling, director at Straightpoint, said: “Therein lies the two revolutionary features of the product. Measuring tension of differing wire rope diameters often requires different sheaves to be exchanged, requiring tools and other ancillary equipment. The COLT boasts an integral quick adjustment mechanism, meaning it can be used to measure wire rope diameters from 3/16 in. to 1 in. or 5mm to 25mm.”

He added: “We’ll launch the app with a library of around 20 differing rope types but as our library here increases over time, the information will be forwarded to all app users via updates. They will be available even to users who download the technology upon its launch.”

The Clamp On Line Tensionmeter (or COLT) measures tension on static lines.

Wire ropes are complex; composition, size, construction, type of core and lay all need to be considered. A 1 x 7 rope behaves differently to a 7 x 19 or 6 x 36 rope; even wire ropes of the same diameter will calibrate differently because of varying rigidity. End users will leverage the hardware and software benefits of the COLT to simplify tension-measuring applications beyond what was previously thought possible.

Ayling added: “As is the backstory to many Straightpoint innovations, we based the COLT on feedback from the end user marketplaces that apply our technologies. Combining industry intelligence with our own research and engineering expertise, we devised a product that fills a gap in the market and supersedes alternative solutions. Further, it raises the bar in tension measuring technology to the stratosphere.”

The COLT offers a lever ratio of 5.3:1, allowing effortless, safe, clamping onto pre-tensioned wire ropes.

The COLT features a computer numerical control (CNC) machined aluminium construction with high precision roller bearing pivot; high leverage tensioning arm; auto-locking magnetic handle mechanism for security when installed; and IP67 / NEMA6 waterproofing rating.

Typical applications will include tower and stack guy wires; pretensioned cable barriers; bridges; elevators; winch rope; overhead electric transit wires; fall arrest systems; aircraft cables; and utilities. It is expected to be most widely utilised in North American markets and will be officially unveiled at the National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE) annual conference, which takes place 27 February-2 March in Fort Worth, Texas. However, it will be consumed in other geographies and is available through Straightpoint’s global dealer network.

The COLT’s Bluetooth module transmits tension data wirelessly to any smart device running the Android or iOS app.

Additionally, the COLT carries many hallmarks of Straightpoint’s extensive range of equipment, including its construction from aerospace grade aluminium; exceptional battery life (up to 1,000 hours operational time); use of standard alkaline batteries; and its supply in a purpose-made carry case, suiting it to on-site cable tension measurement applications across the world.