How to Choose A Load Cell?

From low bathroom scales to huge ship-to-shore cranes, various weighing technologies rely on load cells. These force sensors convert compression, pressure, tension or torque into electrical signals, which can be found in many applications. To select the right load cell for a specific application, three factors should be considered: the environment, the location, and the load itself. Since the load cell does not need to be in contact with the material, this liquid level measurement method is particularly suitable for applications that contain corrosive, steam, foam or dusty media.

The process of selecting a load cell

Choosing the digital load cell to use is a multi-step process involving multiple factors. The measurement range, accuracy, linearity, hysteresis and repeatability of the industrial load cell are very important. Not considering these variables can mean the difference between successful results and disappointing performance. When recommending load cells, American force experts believe that factors such as load characteristics and application environment should be considered.

1. Load characteristics

The nature of the load and how it will interact with the precision load cell helps determine the type of load cell to be used. Experts will recommend a suitable load cell through some professional questions. For example, a five-pound bowling ball placed lightly on a scale is a static load and it will not overwhelm the load cell structure. However, the same ball dropped from a height of three feet may generate more than 1,000 pounds of force. This is dynamic loading and can damage load cells that are not designed to withstand such a large force. Different designs of load cell structure can reduce the influence in different ranges.

2. Environmental factors

Where is the actual location of the application? The load cell used outside is often exposed to humidity, humidity, and a lot of dust. These and other environmental conditions may affect the behavior of the load cell. Since the load cell technology is based on a Wheatstone bridge circuit, temperature will have a significant impact on the resistance of the bridge, so in an environment affected by temperature fluctuations, temperature-compensated load cells must be used. Our company's outdoor load cells are made of materials with high water corrosion resistance and a high degree of protection (IP), which can well meet various environmental needs.

3. Load cell location

Since the load cells are integrated into the equipment, they must have a certain size and geometry-all of which depend on how much space is available and how it is configured. This location will also determine the most suitable load cell type. High-tech hospital beds can use various load cells. But when the load cell is installed between the upper and lower racks, a flat (flat) sensor is better.