Glossary · Sensors and measurement
Load cell
Also known as: Weighing cell
German: Wägezelle
In weighing technology, a load cell is a force sensor designed for weighing that converts the weight force of a load into an electrical signal, most commonly with strain gauges bonded to an elastic body.
- Sensors
- Standards
In one sentence
A load cell is a force sensor built for weighing that converts a load's weight force into an electrical signal, usually with strain gauges.
Example
Three load cells under the legs of a mixing vessel measure its contents so the batch controller can dose ingredients by weight.
How it applies
- Engineering: Select capacity, accuracy class and protection class. Vessel weighing requires mounting kits that introduce the force correctly and decouple pipe forces and thermal expansion.
- Commissioning: Calibrate the weighing system as a whole, with test weights or a reference, including the weighing electronics.
- Legal metrology: Weighing for trade can require approved instruments and verification under national or EU legal metrology rules. OIML R 60 covers metrological requirements for load cells used in such instruments.
- Documentation: Record the calibration, the mounting and any overload protection. Instructions must warn that welding on a vessel with installed load cells can damage them.
Load cell vs. force sensor
A load cell is a specialized Force sensor, optimized and specified for weighing accuracy. Force sensors in general also cover dynamic forces and process monitoring.