the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for measuring cutting forces associated with a machine tool . a force transducer plate forms a part of a bolted joint within the machine tool structure and is positioned within a direct force path . raised force shunting pads are formed on both sides of the plate thereby limiting the load transfer area of the plate . at least one three - axis load cell is mounted closely adjacent one force shunting pad and elevated relative to the pad such that an acceptable pre - load is maintained on the load cell . by strategically placing the load cell closely adjacent the force shunting pad and utilizing the force shunting pads to transfer the majority of loads through the plate , hysteresis is minimized , linearity optimized , and the load cell protected from overload .