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What is a Load Cell and How does it work?

2021-11-18

What is a Load Cell and How does it work?

A load cell (or load cell) is a sensor that converts force into a measurable electrical output. Although there are many kinds of force sensors, strain type force sensors are the most common type.

Strain gauge load cells dominate the weighing industry, except in some laboratories where precision mechanical balances are still used. Pneumatic load cells are sometimes used where inherent safety and hygiene are required, while hydraulic load cells are considered in remote areas because they do not require power. Strain load cells are accurate in the 0.03% to 0.25% full scale range and are suitable for almost all industrial applications.

How do load cells work?
Load cells work by converting mechanical forces into digital values that can be read and recorded by the user. The internal workings of load cells vary depending on which load cell you choose. There are hydraulic weighing sensor, pneumatic weighing sensor and strain type weighing sensor. The strain load sensor is the most commonly used of the three. The strain gauge load cell contains a strain gauge which emits an uneven voltage when under load. Voltage changes to the extent covered by a digital reading as weight.

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