Four Tips when Choosing a Load Cell

Different types of load cells have unique benefits and different applications have special requirements, making the process of picking a load cell complicated. Thus, it is important to discuss load cell capacity requirements with an experienced and knowledgeable manufacturer before you make your final decision.

Load cells come in various configurations and standards, depending on the intended application and environment. Some varieties depend on calibrated proving rings for measuring load displacement. These force transducers can be differentiated by the specific method they use for detecting weight and the kind of output signal generated.

If you are on the make for these transducers, below are some tips to help you choose the right load cell for your specific application:

Choose a Cell that Suits your Application

You can understand your application by determining how to perform the measurement and how to apply the load. For high endurance applications, you need a strain gauge load cell. Remote applications require the use of a hydraulic cell as it can operate without a power connection. In addition, pneumatic cells offer precise mechanical balance for quality assurance and safety applications.

Identify your Application’s Minimum and Maximum Load Capacity

For optimal capacity, pick a cell that exceeds the highest capacity load and consider potential variances that could arise such as bridge resistance, nonlinearity, and hysteresis. Also, establish the engineering units required for the process. Your application’s performance can be negatively affected by the combined stress due to extraneous load and moments. Without picking the proper load cell, the accuracy of your application will be compromised.

Consider your Cell Size and Specification you Require

You need to determine what your application needs, along with measures such as width, height, length, and weight. Also, you must make your choice based on whether you will perform the applications in hot or cold temperatures. To determine the cell capacity requirements, consider whether applications are done in submerged settings or out of water.

Be Aware of the Different Types of Load Cells

These force transducers are available in a variety of sizes and shapes to meet various requirements. These sensors create a signal output if a load is applied to it in compression or tension. Below are the various types of load cells you can choose from:

• Button load cells are compression strain gauge measurement devices that work in areas that have minimal space.

• S-beam. These versatile transducers measure compression and tension. They are available in various capacities and be used with a range of hardware.

• Strain gauge. These are valued for their durability, resonance values, and stiffness. A cell’s strain gauge is a planar resistor that deforms based on the cell material’s activities.

• Z-beam. These are the toughest options you can find on the market. They are made from top-grade materials and often come with all the necessary hardware. They are ideal for overhead suspended measurements.

• These generate a voltage in response to the changing form of the cell. The voltage is not a measurement of static values; however, it is still important when the strain goes through changes.

• These are made to control the pressure balance.

• It can be safely used in hazardous environments because they don’t have electrical parts.

• They are made by considering overhead suspension measurements. They feature 500% minimum overload safety and full-rated capacities.