Kunwei KWR168Ex Explosion-Proof Six-Axis Force/Torque Sensor, 3000–8000 N for Robotic Tooling

Overview

The Kunwei Sensing KWR168Ex six-axis force/torque sensor is an explosion-proof series designed for high bending moments and multi-axis load measurement in robotic tooling and test fixtures. Four models cover 3000–8000 N and 400–1200 N·m per axis. Its 168 mm diameter, 38 mm high electropolished alloy-steel body incorporates intelligent measurement circuitry and supports integration with elongated actuators and tooling assemblies.

Features

• Measurement of three forces, Fx/Fy/Fz, and three moments, Mx/My/Mz.
• Four selectable load ranges: BEx, CEx, DEx and EEx.
• High-strength alloy-steel construction with an electropolished surface.
• 500 Hz sampling frequency, 0.05% FS resolution, 0.5% FS repeatability and 3.0% FS accuracy.
• 200% FS overload level and IP64 protection rating.
• Built-in intelligent circuitry; communication and associated acquisition equipment depend on the supplied configuration.

Specifications

FS means full scale. Accuracy includes measurement errors from crosstalk, hysteresis and nonlinearity. The force and moment capacities are axis ratings, not robot payload ratings. Account for attached tool mass, lever arms and combined loading; the overload figure does not expand the calibrated measuring range. The listed body masses are distinct from packed shipping weights.

Power and Communication

Use the KWR168Ex series rating of 12–17 VDC for selection and verify the supplied unit and associated electronics before connection. Do not substitute the wider supply range of the non-Ex KWR168 or apply 24/48 V solely from generic family information. Some listed electrical and performance parameters apply to the associated acquisition equipment.

The model letters specify measuring ranges, not a choice of every communication protocol at once. RS422, RS485, Modbus, CAN, CAN FD, TCP, UDP, EtherCAT and USB refer to configuration-dependent interface arrangements. Match the actual output, connector assignment and acquisition system to the host controller; use KWR168Ex-specific wiring and protocol documentation.

Mechanical Installation

The mechanical reference gives a body diameter of Ø168 ±0.05 mm and an overall height of 38 mm, with the load reference plane at 37 mm. It shows Ø144 mm outer mounting circles, a Ø76 mm inner mounting circle and a Ø40 mm central bore. The illustrated interface includes six M10 threaded holes with a 12 mm depth indication and two Ø8 locating holes with +0.02/0 tolerance; locating-hole depths differ between the faces, 6 mm and 8 mm.

Use the full drawing for face-specific hole patterns, the Ø92 mm flange detail, 8 mm step, 30°/120° angular references, the counterbore section and X/Y/Z orientation. Match the actual revision before machining an adapter and allow clearance for the side connector. A nominally equal body diameter alone does not establish mechanical interchangeability.

Ex-Series Configuration

The Ex suffix identifies the explosion-proof product series. Hazardous-area suitability depends on the delivered unit's Ex marking, approval documents and installation configuration. Match those documents to the intended installation; the IP64 enclosure rating alone does not specify an Ex protection class or zone.

Applications

• High-moment robotic tooling: monitor forces and moments generated by long tools or elongated actuators.
• Gearbox and precision assembly: measure reaction loads and off-axis moments during component engagement.
• Grinding, polishing and cutting-force test fixtures: provide multi-axis load feedback within the selected sensor's capacity and response range.
• Torque-monitoring and actuator-development rigs that require simultaneous force and moment measurement.
• Humanoid, robotic-arm, exoskeleton, quadruped and guided-vehicle research where the mass, mounting geometry and load range suit the installation.

What's Included

• 1 × Kunwei KWR168Ex sensor in the selected BEx, CEx, DEx or EEx model.
• Downloadable mechanical reference and family selection documentation below.

The model options do not specify a cable kit, power supply, safety barrier, acquisition module, adapter flange or interface converter as included. Establish the required installation equipment for the selected communication and Ex configuration.

Downloads

• KWR168Ex mechanical drawing, English reference (PDF)
• KWR168Ex mechanical drawing, original reference (PDF)
• Kunwei six-axis sensor selection manual, family reference (PDF)

The family selection manual covers multiple models, including non-Ex KWR168 variants. Use the Ex-specific specification above for electrical ratings, sampling frequency and installation selection.

FAQ

Which KWR168Ex model should I choose?

BEx is rated 3000 N / 400 N·m, CEx 4000 N / 600 N·m, DEx 6000 N / 800 N·m and EEx 8000 N / 1200 N·m per axis. Check combined working loads and bending moments, not only axial force.

Can I use a 24 V or 48 V supply?

The Ex-series specification lists 12–17 VDC. Use the actual unit and associated electronics ratings; do not infer wider supply compatibility from a generic family footnote or a non-Ex model.

Does the model letter select RS485, EtherCAT or another interface?

No. BEx/CEx/DEx/EEx select load ranges; the supplied communication and acquisition configuration determines the interface.

Does IP64 establish hazardous-area approval?

No. Match the actual unit’s Ex marking, approval documents and installation requirements to the intended environment.

Can I use KWR63 or KWR75 wiring instructions for this sensor?

Use KWR168Ex-specific documentation. Similar product families do not establish matching pinouts, supply limits, serial settings or package contents.

Visual Details