There are as many types of load cells as there are applications that use them. When you are ordering a load cell, one of the first questions you will likely be asked is:
“What weighing equipment is your load cell used on?”
The first question will help decide which follow-up questions to ask, such as: “Is the load cell a replacement or a new system?” What type of weighing system is the load cell suitable for, a scale system or an integrated system? Is “” static or dynamic? “”What is an application environment? “Having a general understanding of load cells will help you make the load cell buying process easier.
What is a load cell?
All digital scales use load cells to measure the weight of an object. Electricity flows through the load cell, and when a load or force is applied to the scale, the load cell will bend or compress slightly. This changes the current in the load cell. The weight indicator measures changes in electrical current and displays it as a digital weight value.
Different Types of Load Cells
While all load cells work the same way, different applications require specific finishes, styles, ratings, certifications, sizes and capacities.
What type of seal do load cells need?
There are various techniques for sealing load cells to protect the electrical components inside. Your application will determine which of the following seal types are required:
Environmental sealing
welded seal
Load cells also have an IP rating, which indicates what type of protection the load cell housing provides for electrical components. The IP rating depends on how well the enclosure protects against external elements such as dust and water.
Load Cell Construction/Materials
Load cells can be made from a variety of materials. Aluminum is typically used for single point load cells with low capacity requirements. The most popular choice for load cells is tool steel. Finally, there is a stainless steel option. Stainless steel load cells can also be sealed to protect electrical components, making them suitable for high humidity or corrosive environments.
Scale system vs. integrated system load cell?
In an integrated system, load cells are integrated or added to a structure, such as a hopper or tank, turning the structure into a weighing system. Traditional scale systems typically include a dedicated platform on which to place an object for weighing and then remove it, such as a scale for a deli counter. Both systems would measure the weight of items, but only one was originally built for that. Knowing how you weigh items will help your scale dealer determine whether a scale system requires a load cell or a system-integrated load cell.
What You Need to Know Before Buying a Load Cell
The next time you need to order a load cell, have the answers to the following questions ready before contacting your scale dealer to help guide your decision.
What is an application?
What type of weighing system do I need?
What material does the load cell need to be made of?
What is the minimum resolution and maximum capacity I need?
What approvals do I need for my application?
Choosing the right load cell can be complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. You’re an application expert – and you don’t need to be a load cell expert either. Having a general understanding of load cells will help you understand how to start your search, making the entire process easier. Rice Lake Weighing Systems has the largest selection of load cells to meet the needs of any application, and our knowledgeable technical support representatives help simplify the process.
Need a custom solution?
Some applications require engineering consultation. A few questions to consider when discussing custom solutions are:
Will the load cell be exposed to strong or frequent vibrations?
Will the equipment be exposed to corrosive substances?
Will the load cell be exposed to high temperatures?
Does this application require extreme weight capacity?
Post time: Jul-29-2023
