Simply put, a load cell is a weighing machine which uses electrical input to perform their tasks. They come in different varieties and sizes depending on the use of the machine. This requires a potential buyer to know the specific type and function before purchasing the handy machine. In purchasing the machines, the main features to look out for are their range of weights, overloads as well as accuracy. This largely determines the purpose of the cells.
The compression of the DL type is estimated at between 50 and 5000 kgs. The overload capacity of this machine is up to approximately 1000% while its accuracy is described in three aspects- the industrial being 0.10%; high precision estimated at 0.025% and the precision is gauged to be 0.05%. The major advantage of this particular cell is that it is shockproof and the ongoing activities in its surroundings do not affect its readings. It is therefore recommended and mainly used in building sites and other tough environments.
Despite being mechanical in nature, the hydraulic type is more common than other types. Its weight ranges are estimated at up to 10 million lbs while its accuracy is valued at 0.25%. The main advantage of the hydraulic type is its inability to react to temperature. It can also handle all kinds of impact relatively well, making it highly suitable for working with tanks, hoppers and bins. It is normally recommended when working in hazardous conditions. However, this kind of machine is quite complex to operate therefore, it requires an expert on the site. It is also expensive when compared to other cells.
Another type of mechanical cell is the pneumatic which is estimated to have extremely wide ranges of weight and higher accuracies as compared to the Compressor and Hydraulic cells. The merits of the pneumatic cell are its inherent safety since it lacks any fluids.
On the other hand, this machine has a tendency of responding to slowly to weight and requires that one maintains its dryness. This calls for frequent cleaning using dry air. Pneumatic cells are suitable for hazardous conditions and are also used in many food industries.
The bending and shear beam type has one of the least weight capacities which range between 5 to 500kgs. It is made from stainless steel and is very sturdy. Additionally, it is airtight sealed and has a double shield cable for its unique 6 wire technique. In most cases, this machine is used in weighing silos, hoppers and tanks, among other tough equipment.
Apart from the wide usage of these amenities in various industrial quantifying applications. They are also used in weighing objects with the aim of finding their centre of gravity. These devices are also useful in monitoring structural health and railcar weighing.
On top of that, they are used in measuring tension and force as well as onboard weighing and gauging force. Other common devices include the button, washer and fibre optic types. It is important for potential buyers to research on the kind of load cells they require, taking into consideration their purpose before making any purchase.