Load cell sensor is indispensable tools in the fields of engineering and measurement, capable of silently but accurately measuring force and weight in various applications. From weighing scales to industrial machinery, weighing sensors play a crucial role.
A load cell is a converter that converts mechanical forces or loads into electrical signals. These sensors are used to measure weight, force, torque, and pressure. Although there are various types of load cells, the most common and widely used is strain gauge load cells.
Components of strain gauge weighing sensor:
Load receiving element: This is the part of the weighing sensor that directly bears the force or load. When subjected to this force, it usually deforms slightly.
Strain gauge: A strain gauge is a thin wire or foil pattern connected to a load receiving component. When the load receiving element deforms under the applied force, it can cause the strain gauge to stretch or compress, thereby changing their resistance.
Wheatstone bridge circuit: The strain gauge is connected in a Wheatstone bridge configuration. This circuit measures the resistance change caused by deformation of the strain gauge.
Working principle:
No load condition: Without any load, the strain gauge is in a relaxed state, and the Wheatstone bridge is in a balanced state, generating zero output voltage.
Application of load: When a force or load is applied to a load cell, it will deform slightly. This deformation causes the strain gauge to change its resistance, causing the Wheatstone bridge to become unbalanced.
Electrical output: A change in resistance produces a small electrical signal, usually within the millivolt range. This signal is proportional to the applied force and is called the output voltage.
Amplification and signal processing: The electronic circuit inside the weighing sensor amplifies and processes the small output voltage to provide more useful and accurate measurements.
Calibration and accuracy:
The load cell sensor has been calibrated to ensure accurate measurement. This process involves applying a known load to the sensor and adjusting its electronic devices to produce the correct output. Calibration is crucial for accuracy, as factors such as temperature changes and sensor wear may cause changes.
Type of load cell:
Compression load cell: designed to measure the force of compression, such as in industrial presses or vehicle scales.
Tension weighing sensor: The tension weighing sensor measures the force acting under tension, making it suitable for applications such as crane scales and suspension scales.
Shear load cells: These sensors measure shear forces and are typically found in material testing machines and industrial equipment.
Bending beam weighing sensors: These sensors are typically used for weighing scales and platforms because they can measure compression and tension.
Application:
Load cells are used in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, aerospace, automotive, and agriculture. They are used for weighing scales, material testing machines, force measuring devices, and even load-bearing structures such as bridges.
CSPPM specialized in manufacturing and selling pressure sensors, pressure transmitters, liquid level sensor, temperature transmitter, automation instrument and system. Based on Central South University (CSU), implemented the quality management system of ISO9001. declared several of national invention patents etc.
