Dover Flexo Electronics – 
Celebrating More Than 50 Years of Tension Control Innovation

Published: February 20, 2026

Dover Flexo Electronics (DFE), a recognized leader in tension control technology, has been manufacturing tension control solutions since 1974. DFE tension systems deliver improvements in material processing productivity and reliability, helping to reduce waste and operating costs while improving quality. Industries such as packaging, paper, film, foil and web converting are their specialty.

DFE manufactures ten different load cell models able to accommodate any width — from narrow ribbon through wide web formats. Investment in a new tension measurement system often begins with the installation of a Tension Roll® transducer or cantilevered Narrow Web transducer. The Tension Roll® and Narrow Web both combine a roll shell with dual tension sensors in a robust, shaft-centric design. The roller systems are ordered to spec and require no assembly — just bolt them onto the machine and connect the cable.

DFE also manufactures Model C cartridge-style tension transducers, considered to be the industry standard in high-sensitivity semiconductor strain-gage load cells. These workhorse tension sensors are available to support live-shaft and dead-shaft idler rolls with a wide variety of mounting styles and load ratings from 10 to 800 lbs.

The semiconductor strain-gage technology featured in all DFE load cells delivers up to 33x more signal performance than some foil gage alternatives. In combination with refined digital signal processing techniques used in their amplifiers, indicators and controllers — DFE’s tension systems can deliver an incredibly wide range of web sensing performance. This technological advantage allows DFE systems to perform beyond most competitors, especially in high EMI industrial environments.

DFE load cell amplifiers accommodate multiple connectivity options such as EtherNet/IP™, EtherCAT© and analog fieldbus to support both legacy and next-generation PLC systems. All amplifiers feature digital Quik-Cal™ calibration with built-in diagnostics and fault monitoring. TA500 amplifiers feature expanded 16-bit resolution over Ethernet with update rates averaging 5-10 ms.
DFE’s TriView™ series touchscreen display indicator features an easy-to-use menu system for calibration, as well as independent left-right tension readouts. The system is perfectly suited to prevent baggy edges and uneven web tension, and to help diagnose potential web tracking or alignment issues.

For turn-key control retrofits, DFE’s SteadyWeb 6™ digital tension controller delivers precise closed-loop performance with an incredible amount of flexibility and adjustment. SteadyWeb 6™ was designed with modularity in mind, providing torque control options for electric and pneumatic brakes, clutches and motor drive systems. The intuitive touchscreen interface greatly reduces the time and effort needed to train operators.

DFE’s full line of pneumatic tension brakes are both simple to operate and reliable. The time-tested design features stress-relieved iron discs, tool-less quick-change pads and limited-travel pistons. Each brake is assembled and balanced in a methodical process that minimizes runout for ultra-smooth torque engagement. Patented Silencer™ friction pads are extremely effective at eliminating brake squeal — providing environmental and safety benefits for operators who work in close proximity to braking systems.

DFE’s applications engineers and local territory reps are ready to help evaluate machinery and specify components to meet customer objectives and productivity goals. On DFE’s website an expansive knowledgebase and CAD library are also available to help make new projects and retrofits quick and easy.

All DFE products are manufactured in the USA and backed by an industry-leading 5 year tension-free warranty.