High-Quality Load Cell Kits ( Tank mount )

A load cell scale is a type of weighing system. All digital scales are a form of this because they require load cells in order to detect weight with precision. Whereas analog scales have a needle to point in the approximate direction of the measured weight, digital scales display an exact number.

Industrial load scales are used to measure items too heavy for commercial scales. This can include vehicles, mechanical equipment, large quantities of materials (such as concrete), and other heavy applications. The load cell inside improves accuracy, which is crucial for several weighing industries.

There are several types of load cells, and each one operates differently. However, there are some basic components all load cells have. The biggest similarity is that they all convert mechanical force or pressure into an electrical signal used to measure an applied load.

Another shared feature is that load cells of all types are reliably accurate. The more load cells a scale contains, the more accurate the weight reading is.

There are several load cell types to choose from:

• Stainless steel load cells
• Beam load cells
• Hydraulic load cells
• Strain-gauge load cells
• Pneumatic load cells
• DIY load cell kits

Without question, this is the most common load cell type. Often, people will use the general term "load cell" to refer to strain-gauge load cells.

This weighing system relies on tension and compression. When an item is placed on a scale, each strain gauge inside is put under pressure. The scale measures the resistance from the strain gauges, which results in an output voltage. This output signal is then converted into a readable format to indicate the weight of the applied load.

Though the two terms are often used interchangeably, there is a difference. A strain gauge is a single unit inside a load cell. Each load cell can have multiple strain gauge load sensors. The more sensors a strain gauge load cell has, the more precise it is.

Today, strain gauge load cells commonly contain four strain gauges in each load cell. Older designs may use fewer, which reduces accuracy. Since these gauges are inside the load cell housing, the entire scale must be disassembled to add more.

Beam load cells are a form of strain-gauge load cells. Rather than using a single-point transducer, a set of two or more beams are inside the scale.

An S-beam load cell is named for the shape the beams create. This is the most popular subtype of beam scales.

Often, a beam load cell rests in each corner of the scale. Due to containing strain gauges, their process is not much different. The mechanical force of an applied load causes resistance. This gives an output signal that is then converted into numbers.

Hydraulic load cells are completely mechanical, which means there are no electric components. This makes them safer to use in more varied environments compared to other load cells. Its multi-weighing applications make it one of the most popular choices for load cells.

This type of load cell detects weight by a change in pressure in its internal fluid. As more force is applied, the fluid is put under more pressure. This will then convert into an electrical signal before it's transmitted to a digital reader as a number.

Pneumatic load cells are generally distinguished by their reliance on air pressure. They work similarly to hydraulic load cells. As the air is put under increasing pressure by the weight above it, the machine calculates the resistance. It releases an output signal to a receiver. The data is converted into a measurement on a display monitor.

In hydraulic scales, weight is measured using filling fluid rather than pressurized air. The amount of filling fluid does not affect the output signal. However, this method decreases accuracy.

Despite having lower precision, hydraulic load cells are still sought after for their durability in moist environments. The difference in accuracy is slight enough that most weighing companies can prioritize the longevity of the scale. However, highly precise fields such as medicine may need to rely on pneumatic load cells.

Practice precision when installing a large scale to avoid causing damage to the scale or your foundation. Carefully follow all integration instructions and learn safety measures beforehand. It is best to have a team of experienced contractors complete the installation for you.

Smaller scales often come fully prepared. Sometimes, you may need to assemble individual parts. This allows you to freely add or remove components such as beam load cells.

To weigh products, simply place the item on the scale and wait for a number to display on the digital monitor. You may need to calibrate the scale several times before its first use.

Conduct regular maintenance on the scale to prolong its life and accuracy. Refer to your user’s guide for cleaning instructions. These may vary depending on the load cell type. Any corrosive materials should be cleaned immediately after spilling on the scale.

One of the most common applications of load cells is tank weighing. Tanks rest evenly along the scale, making beam load cells a perfect choice. Hopper weighing is another widely used application ideal for beam load cells.

If you plan to load tanks or hoppers, be certain to check the weight capacities before buying load cells. Additionally, be mindful of the tank level before each use. An overfilled tank may put too much pressure on the scale.

Load cells have multiple weighing applications in commercial and industrial weighing systems. Larger scales are commonly used to weigh tanks, hoppers, heavy machinery, and more. Other scales also have a place in the weighing industry for measuring chemicals, food, and other small items requiring precision.

It is crucial to adhere to the weight limit on any type of scale. Ignoring this can cause the scale to become unbalanced or stuck in place. Slight overweighing will result in decreased accuracy. Severe overweighing may cause the scale to break.

To prevent exceeding the weight limit, always monitor the digital value displayed on the weight indicator. When weighing a new object that you fear might be too heavy, try weighing a smaller piece of it and gradually setting more on the scale. Once you reach the capacity, remove the object to prevent permanent damage to the scale.

Stainless steel load cells have a crucial advantage over aluminum and steel alloy load cells. They are typically hermetically sealed to protect against corrosion and short-circuiting. This makes them more expensive but ideal for measuring fluids or working in high-moisture environments.

Stainless steel load cells also have an advantage in cleanliness.

All load cell types usually come with junction boxes, mounting tools, a digital monitor, and detailed instructions. Your order may include additional accessories depending on the kit you choose. Additionally, you can select accessories separately to add to your order.

There is a variety of industrial scales for different weighing needs. Smaller digital scales are ideal for quick measurements, such as the contents of a beaker. They require less space and are often portable. While they may come in more varied shapes, they generally have a low weight capacity.

Larger scales, such as truck scales, are used for bigger industrial applications. The platforms typically require ground installation and have higher weight capacities. Truck scales are commonly used to measure vehicles, large machinery, tanks, and hoppers.