All forms of electrical weighing systems work with the use of load cells. You likely have a load cell in your home, in the form of a simple weight scale. When you step onto the scale, the load cell is what determines your weight. These load cells have many other useful applications beyond just telling you how much you weigh.
What is a load cell?
A load cell is a very accurate transducer that measures physical force levels and converts it to an electrical signal. They can range from mini- or micro load cells, to huge industrial load cells that measure high levels of force. Load cells can measure different types of force, depending on which cell you purchase from a load cell developer. They can gauge compression, bending, or tension and convert that into a digital figure.
The different types of load cells
The specific force you are trying to weigh or measure will determine the type of load cell that will be the best for the job. Here are some of the most common load cells and what their applications are:
Single point
Single point load cells (also called platform load cells) are most often in small to medium platform scales and are the most versatile of all load cells. They can measure weights of up to five tonnes from a single point and are highly accurate. You’ll often see single point load cells in the food, automotive, and medical industries.
Shear beam
Shear beam load cells measure compressive forces with a spring element in the cell. They have a longer shape with two bolts on one end for support and the cell itself on the other end. Shear beam load cells are perfect for force testing and are used in industrial applications.
Bending beam
Bending beam load cells are widespread as they are small in size, meaning they can be used almost anywhere. They are most effective for use in measuring tasks and in commercial applications.
Hydraulic
Hydraulic load cells identify weight based on pressure changes. You place the item you need to weigh on the hydraulic load cell, increasing the pressure and allowing alternate transducers to measure the weight.
Compression
A compression load cell is a block that measures the compression from the load at a single point. These cells measure the force that is pushing down on the cell on a single axis. Compression load cells are compact, making them another versatile option.
How do you choose the best load cell for your required application?
There are a few primary factors that you need to consider in order to determine which type of load cell will suit your required application. These include:
- Output requirements
- Mounting options
- Measurement duration
- Required accuracy
- Temperature (are you inside, outside, in a freezer, etc.?)
- Budget
- Measurement speed requirements
- Load direction (compression or tension?)
By breaking down your specific measurement requirements, you can determine which load cell will function the best for your application.
