Understanding Different Load Cell Types

Industrial applications need to read and record weight and content and understand mechanical force. Load cells are transducers that convert mechanical force into simple digital values. There are many types of load cells, each with their own benefits for the application. Massload Technologies is an industrial manufacturer of load cells, we offer shear beam, single beam, double beam, S-type, single point bending beam, pancake, column, donut ring, button and canister types.

Our guide can help you understand the different types of load cells, choose the right one for your application and how to maintain them for accuracy and longevity.

Why Load Cells are Used in Industrial Applications

Load cells measure high force and are used in industrial applications where weight readings are critical. Many electronic weighing systems use load cells because of the benefits, which include:

• High Accuracy: Load cells provide precise force measurement, a big plus in industries that require accuracy like manufacturing, transportation and construction.
• Wide Range of Applications: From low capacity sensors used in retail to high capacity solutions in heavy industry, load cells can be used in many applications.
• Reliability: Load cells are tough and provide reliable performance over time, even in harsh industrial environments.

Now that you know why load cells are so important for industrial applications, let’s consider the factors that affect their performance. Here are the things to consider when choosing the right load cell for you:

Load Cell Considerations

When choosing a load cell you need to consider all the factors that affect its performance, accuracy and lifespan. Every application has its own requirements and understanding these factors will ensure you choose the right load cell for your needs. Here are some things to consider when determining how well the load cell will perform in your system:

• Measuring Range: The load cell must be able to handle the full range of forces. A load cell that’s too small will overload, one that’s too big will lack accuracy. Match capacity to the force being measured for best performance.
• Accuracy: Accuracy is critical for applications that require precise measurements, like medical or aerospace. It’s how closely the load cell readings match the applied force, with high accuracy cells having finer sensitivity and resolution.
• Resolution & Sensitivity: Resolution is the smallest detectable change in force, while sensitivity is the load cell’s responsiveness. High resolution and sensitivity are important for precise measurements in research or high-precision processes.
• Zero Balance Error: This error occurs when a load cell is unloaded and you get measurement deviations. Minimize zero balance error for consistent and accurate readings especially in applications with fluctuating loads.
• Linearity: Linearity is how well the load cell’s output matches the actual load across its full range. Good linearity means accurate readings across varying forces and consistent performance.
• Frequency Response: Frequency response is the load cell’s ability to track dynamic changes in force. Fast response is important for applications with fluctuating loads to get timely and accurate measurements.
• Input (Excitation) Voltage: The load cell needs a specific input voltage to work. Ensure compatibility with the power supply to avoid inaccurate readings or damage.
• Lifespan: The load cell’s lifespan depends on its design, materials and environmental factors. Durable and corrosion resistant cells last longer especially in harsh environments like construction or mining.
• Orientation: Load cells are designed for specific orientations (tension or compression). Proper mounting is key to accurate measurements, different load cells for vertical or horizontal forces. All these will determine how well the load cell will perform in your system.

Choosing the right load cell for your specific needs ensures smooth and trouble-free operation, whether you’re dealing with precise measurements for medical devices or monitoring heavy-duty loads in construction. In industries where weight is critical to performance and safety, a good load cell is part of maintaining reliability and avoiding costly mistakes.

Load Cell Types

Load cells come in different designs, measurement methods and application suitability. Here’s an overview of the most common types:

Shear Beam Load Cells

Shear beams measure force by a strain gauge placed on the surface of the load cell. When
force is applied, the strain gauge deforms by bending the load cell. Common in platform scales and silo weighing, shear beams are suitable for high-capacity and stable measurements.

Single Beam Load Cells

A type of shear beam load cell, single beams measure shear distortion from a single point, suitable for low capacity applications like bench scales and packing lines.

Double Beam Load Cells

Two points of shear measurement, double beams are suitable for harsh environments that require higher reliability and stability. Commonly used in tank weighing, silo monitoring and large container weighing.

S-Type Load Cells

S-shape load cells accurately measure small forces and are suitable for tension applications and crane scales. Used in applications that require dual measurement capabilities like tensile strength testing.

Single Point Bending Beam Load Cells

Fixed at one end with the load applied to the other, these load cells are high accuracy for single point weighing and used in food processing and packaging.

Pancake Load Cells

Flat shape load cells, they measure both tension and compression. Stable and precise they are used in dynamometers and fatigue testing in aerospace and automotive industries.

Column Load Cells

Spring element designed for axial loading, column load cells are used for heavy duty applications like bridge monitoring and construction. Durable for large structural loads.

Donut Ring Load Cells

Low profile load cells with through hole, suitable for applications where the load structure needs to pass through the sensor like bolt force measurement.

Button Load Cells

Compact and space efficient button load cells are used in spatially constrained applications like medical device testing.

Canister Load Cells

Similar to column load cells, canister load cells can handle high capacity loads with high accuracy and durability in harsh environments like mining and shipbuilding.

How to Choose the Right Load Cell

When choosing a load cell you need to consider specific requirements and environmental factors. Here’s a checklist to help you:

• Capacity: Can the load cell handle your maximum weight or force requirement? Single point load cells are used for low capacity and column load cells are used for heavy duty applications.
• Accuracy Requirements: For high precision applications (e.g. medical or electronics) consider button or S-type load cells.
• Environmental Conditions: Harsh environments like construction and mining require durable load cells that can withstand extreme conditions without compromising accuracy.
• Load Type: Do you need tension, compression or both? Pancake and canister load cells can measure both.
• Size Constraints: In spatially constrained applications, button or donut ring load cells are the way to go.
• Mounting Requirements: Applications with specific mounting requirements may need single point or S-type.
• Budget: It’s not just about choosing the most rugged or high capacity load cell; it’s about getting the best value for your needs. Think about factors like customization, accuracy and your specific application. By balancing cost with performance you can find a load cell that fits both your budget and your goals.

This checklist will help you ensure your chosen load cell meets your application’s requirements.

Tips for Zero Balance and Lifespan

To keep your load cells accurate and long lasting:

• Calibration: Calibrate every 6-12 months if used frequently or heavily.
• Physical Inspection: Check for wear, corrosion or damage if used in harsh environments.
• Check Connections: Check wiring and connectors to make sure they are secure to prevent signal interference.
• Environmental Protection: If used outdoors or in extreme conditions use load cells designed for those conditions or enclosures or weatherproofing to prevent degradation from moisture, dust or chemicals.
• Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Manufacturer recommendations will get you the most life and accuracy out of specific load cell models.

Proper maintenance will reduce replacements and keep them performing accurately over time.

Now that you know what affects load cell performance, you need to know how accuracy is classified. Different applications require different levels of accuracy and load cells are classified based on how well they measure force.

Load Cell Accuracy Classes

After considering the factors that affect load cell performance, let’s get into how accuracy is measured and classified. Different applications require different levels of precision and load cells are classified based on how well they measure force. In North America, accuracy standards are set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and formalized through the National Type Evaluation Program (NTEP). These classifications make sure your load cell meets your application’s needs.

Here are the most common accuracy classes:

• NTEP Class III: This class covers load cells used in commercial applications with scale divisions from 500 to 10,000. Load cells in this class are found in industries like retail, manufacturing and agriculture. Depending on the number of load cells used, they are further divided into single or multiple load cell applications.
• NTEP Class IIIL: For larger capacity applications, Class IIIL load cells handle scales with 2,000 to 10,000 scale divisions. These are used in heavy-duty applications like vehicle, axle-load, livestock and crane scales, as well as railway track and hopper scales. Class IIIL load cells are designed to provide high accuracy and durability in harsh environments.

Now you know the accuracy classes. Choose the right load cell for your application with Massload Technologies. Need help choosing a force measurement solution for your application?

Request a solution for more information on load cells, their capabilities and finding a load cell that meets your needs. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Ask our experts at Massload about our custom solutions.

How Massload Technologies Can Help You Choose the Right Load Cell

At Massload Technologies, we know choosing the right load cell can be overwhelming. With over 40 years in the industrial weighing industry we can help you navigate the many load cell options. Our team will find the one for you for small applications or heavy duty industrial systems.

• Expert Advice: Our engineers will work with you to understand your needs and recommend the right load cell for your application, environment and performance.
• Custom Solutions: We offer custom load cell solutions to fit your needs. Capacity, accuracy or physical size, we will tailor the load cell to your exact application.
• Total Support: From consultation to maintenance, Massload Technologies has got you covered. Our technicians are available for troubleshooting, repair and calibration services to keep your load cell system running smoothly.
• Ongoing Support: We believe in long term relationships with our clients; we offer expert advice and service throughout the life of your load cell equipment. Need periodic recalibration or adjustments to meet changing requirements? We’re here to help.
• Quality and Reliability: We design and manufacture most of our own load cells to ensure top quality and reliability. Built to handle tough environments, our load cells are made to last. When we do source components we choose trusted manufacturers who share our commitment to excellence.

Choose Massload Technologies for your load cell needs. We focus on quality and customer satisfaction, we’ll get you the best solution for your application.

Get the Right Load Cell for Your Application with Massload Technologies

Choosing the right load cell type, capacity and features is critical for accuracy and efficiency in any application. With so many options to choose from expert advice can make all the difference. At Massload Technologies, we’ll guide you through the selection process to find a load cell that fits your exact needs.

Contact us today to ask about load cell capabilities or request a quote for a solution for your force measurement requirements.