A load cell is a particular sensor, which converts force into a measurable electrical output. A typical load cell device consists of four strain gauges in a wheatstone bridge configuration. In an industrial scale this conversion consists of a load being transformed into an analog electrical signal. While there are many different types of load cells (please see our attached overview of load cells on offer), the strain gauge load cell is the classical design. In this type of load cell, the conversion is accomplished by the physical deformation of strain gauges which are bonded into the load cell beam and wired into a wheatstone bridge configuration.
The core of each scale is the load cell. Depending on the type of scale, it is possible that more than one load cell can be installed. While a smaller platform, with a lower capacity, may only require one load cell, a larger platform such as a floor scale, pallet scale and other types of systems often have four or more load cells. High accuracy and reproducibility results from having high-quality load cells installed.
Depending on the application of the weighing system the question of which type of load cell is the correct choice may arise. So, in crane scales and similar applications, where traction is to be determined, an S-shaped load cell will be used. In a vertical shear force, for example, shear beams will come into consideration. Similarly, the rated load is critical in choosing the right load cell. While Singlepoint load cells with nominal loads up to 2000 kg are mainly used for light loads with a high resolution in g or mg range, tension and compression load cells offer a range up to 150 tons, and on request even more.
Wherever tractive or compressive forces or deformations are to be measured from fixed components, load cells are mounted in different ways.
Load cells overview
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