While it is better to consult our trained technicians and engineers in choosing the best load cells, there are some factors to always consider when you are in the process of purchasing load cells. Deciding on what load cell to get can be quite complicated as each load cell has its own unique benefits, special functions and applications with their own special requirements. This guide aims to equip you with the right and necessary information so that trained technicians can help you find the perfect equipment for your needs.

First, Understand Your Application.

By definition, load cells are sensors that measure and convert weight- or more accurately, directional force into an electrical signal. Designed to be a highly accurate device, load cells can be used to measure compression, tension, shear forces or bending. The right choice for your application can depend on a variety of factors including the environment, space and cost. Another thing to consider is the way in which the measurement system will be loaded. For example, if materials you are going to weigh are coming from the side (imagine a conveyor belt) some considerations must be considered for the force that will be exerted horizontally on the load cells. Another example is if materials items are expected to be dropped onto the scale, you will need to choose load cells that are equipped to handle that additional force.

Select a load cell based on these applications:

• High Endurance Applications: usually used in an industrial setting and involves experimental stress. 
• Remote Applications: can operate without requiring the use of a power connection.
• Quality Assurance and Safety Applications: used for situations such as checking whether or not an IV bag is dispensing correctly or is in need of replacement.

Define Your Capacity Requirements.

If you’re not sure of the correct capacity scale to get, you first need to determine the kinds of materials you’ll need to weigh. These could either be raw materials, stocks, chemicals, goods and livestock. Then, you need to determine the minimum and maximum amount of load capacity needed for your applications. Once you already know what items will be weighed, you’ll then be able to know how accurate the measurements will need to be.

Define the operating environment.

Another important factor to consider is in what kind of environment you will be using the load cells. This will help you decide whether or not you need safe components for your load cells. If your load cells are going to be used in a hazardous environment, you must ensure that your system has the needed certification standards. Next, think about the other substances that will come in contact with your load cells. Remember that the temperature in which the load cells will be operating will play a huge role in its lifespan. Whether you will use your load cells in cold or hot temperatures, your system must be able to work properly. Other factors such as wind flow and vibration should also be considered. Answer yourself these follow-up questions:

• Is the environment dirty, dusty, or otherwise harsh?
• Is it controlled and relatively self-contained?
• Does it react to large or small variances in operating temperature?
• Is it exposed to excessive moisture or humidity?

Define Your Size and Specification Requirements.

When choosing a load cell, you should also determine size requirements depending on your application. You can use the following measures:

• Height and Width 
• Weight
• Length
• Non linearity
• Bridge resistance
• Hysteresis

Make Your Load Cell Selection Process Easier With Us.

If you want to know more about load cells and the weighing industry in general, the dedicated engineers from Gedge Systems will be pleased to help you out.

GEDGE SYSTEMS

27 Rhur Street,

Dandenong South VIC 3175 

Australian Contact (03) 9791 8944

International Contact +61 3 9791 8944