The purpose of the load cell transducer is to convert the force placed on the load cell by the weight into an electrical signal that can be read by a digital or analog device or transferred as data point measurement to a system. The size or magnitude of the electrical signal produced from the object being weighed increases with the force applied.
As there are different needs for measuring weight, or force, there is a range of different load cell transducer options. Perhaps the most commonly used in the strain gauge, but there are also shear beam, platform, compression load cells and specialized S-types of load cells which are commonly used for tension and compression types of measurement.
Ensuring the load cell transducer maintains optimum accuracy is always important. There are some important application and use factors to keep in mind when choosing load cell and when integrating a particular type into any process system.
Choose the Correct Size and Capacity
Overloading of a load cell is a common cause of inaccuracy in the system. This can occur over time or with a single heavy weight over the load cells maximum capacity rating.
All load cells are designed with an overweight range, however, routinely weighing these loads is more likely to damage the system over time.
Shock And Vibration Issues
Shock occurs when a heavy load, or even a load within the capacity of the load cell, is dropped on the scale. This results in a force suddenly being applied to the load cell, resulting in possible damage.
Vibration in a system can also lead to problems with accuracy in measurement for a load cell. Specialized load cells for use in system applications are designed to account for vibration and have the built-in stability to limit any damage from this type of issue.
