What Are The Types Of Load Cell & What Are They Used For?
Everything You Need To Know About The Different Types Of Load Cell
Off-the-shelf load cell solutions are convenient, but a one-size-fits-all approach isn't always practical given the requirements of the weighing task at hand. That's why here at Meltrons we offer a wide range of load cells types in a variety of configurations to ensure we have a specialised solution that's right for you.
If this sheer amount of choice has left you scratching your head, you're not alone: the number of load cell types, makes, and models can be overwhelming.
Generally speaking, load cells fall into two major categories based on the way that they work. The first is the output signal they generate - pneumatic, hydraulic, and electric - and the second is the way they detect weight, such as bending, shear, compression, and tension.
To help make the process easier, we've explored the most common types of load cell in more detail below. Don't forget, if you're left with any questions or are seeking a custom load cell solution simply contact us and our friendly staff will be more than happy to help.
The 6 Most Common Types of Load Cell
Rope Tension Load Cell
Rope tension load cells are a popular option for hoists, winches, cranes, and elevators thanks to their ease of installation and use. Designed to measure a wide variety of loads, they boast a compact design and numerous uses for measuring the tension of ropes and wires.
Compression Load Cell
Compression load cells are used for measuring a pushing force along a single axis. Their durability, reliability, and accuracy make them a popular option in applications where performance and accuracy is a must which is why they’re often found in tank, silo, truck, and railway scales as well as consumer-grade equipment such as bathroom scales.
Disc Load Cell
Unlike most other designs, disc load cells often have all of their electronic components housed through the bottom of the load cell, with this low profile design making them the ideal weighing solution for silos, tanks, and hoppers where space is at a premium and accuracy is a must.
Chassis Load Cell
Accurate and reliable payload measurement is paramount to truck and transport operators, which is why chassis load cells are a popular option for users requiring precise, accurate onboard vehicle weighing. With the proper chassis load cell, operators can breathe easy with reliable payload measurement for easy on-or-off-loading.
Load Pin
Load pins are a compact load cell that are specially designed for compression and tension measurement where other load cells just don’t fit, or in applications where an integrated solution is required. They’re ideal for pinned joint or integrated scenarios, including axles, lifting systems, hydraulic presses, and crane load systems.
Miniature Load Cell
Miniature load cells are specifically designed for measuring static and dynamic forces in applications with minimum space and high capacity loads, or where a reliable, high-performance load cell solutions is required such as on fasteners or structural test applications.
