How load cells work

The load cell uses the strain effect caused by the deformation of the elastic material to convert weight into an electrical signal: when the elastic material deforms, the resistance value changes (strain effect); this change is detected by the Wheatstone bridge and converted into voltage Output; the output voltage is proportional to the weight it carries. After calibration, it has high precision, high sensitivity, fast response and durability.

The principle of load cell

A load cell is a device that converts weight into an electrical signal. Widely used in industrial, medical and commercial fields. The basic principle is to utilize the strain effect produced when elastic materials deform.

1. Deformation of elastic materials

The core component of the load cell is an elastic material, such as a metal foil or a strain gauge. When an external force acts on an elastic material, it deforms. The degree of deformation is proportional to the force exerted.

2. Strain effect

Deformation will change the resistance value of elastic materials. When an elastic material deforms, its length increases and its cross-sectional area decreases, causing the resistance to increase. This phenomenon is called the strain effect.

3. Sensor structure

A load cell usually consists of one or more elastic elements fixed in a rigid frame. When an object is placed on the sensor platform, external force is transmitted through the platform to the elastic element, causing it to deform.

4. Electrical signal output

The deformation of the elastic element causes a strain effect, thereby changing its resistance value. This change in resistance is detected by a Wheatstone bridge connected to the elastic element. A Wheatstone bridge is an electrical circuit that converts a change in resistance into a voltage output.

5. Output Calibration

A load cell needs to be calibrated to ensure that its output is proportional to the weight it is bearing. During calibration, a known weight is used to load the sensor and the resistance of the Wheatstone bridge is adjusted so that the output voltage corresponds to the applied force.

Advantages

##High precision
• High sensitivity
• Fast response time
• Strong durability

Application

Electronic Scale
• Industrial Automation
• Medical Equipment
• Science Research

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