Strain gauge load cells are extremely useful tools in many industries. Engineers working in the aerospace, biopharmaceutical and semiconductor industries are all familiar with these devices, which are common instruments for measuring certain levels of force or temperature. Ultimately, however, there is no single device of this nature. Instead, you need to find the right device to meet your needs.
If you're currently in the market for a load cell sensor for a project you're working on, here are a few things to consider before purchasing a particular product.
Capacity
Depending on how you will be using your load cells, you may need to find a device that can handle a certain amount of capacity. For example, some devices are designed to handle very light capacity, such as a few milligrams. Others are needed for larger jobs and will need to be able to handle potentially up to 5,000 kilograms of capacity.
If you need a load cell to handle that kind of load capacity, you may need to have it manufactured specifically for that purpose. This is a common solution, but a bit more expensive than purchasing a standard unit. In this case, it is always a good idea to consult an expert who can design and develop a product tailored to your needs.
Size
The size requirements of the load cell you will use can also vary from project to project. Some devices need to be small and compact, while others may be a bit larger. The size of the load cell you choose will depend largely on the size or amount of material you need to monitor.
For example, if you need a load cell sensor to build some sort of scale, the device you need will depend on the size of the scale you are building. Larger scales may contain a larger device, while smaller scales will likely need a compact and relatively small load cell sensor.
Type
Finally, you will need to consider the type of load cell you want to use. Again, this will depend primarily on the end use of your device, so this is another area where it's best to consult an expert who can point you in the right direction.
Generally speaking, there are three main types of load cells. You can choose between a pneumatic, hydraulic or strain gauge load cell. Pneumatic load cells are typically used for projects where safety and hygiene are important considerations. Hydraulic devices can operate on their own, without an external power source, and are therefore ideal when the strain gauge sensor application is in a remote environment. Strain gauge sensors are among the most commonly used types of strain gauge sensors, as they are incredibly accurate and can be applied in almost any industry.Strain gauge sensors are extremely useful tools in many industries. Strain gauge sensors are extremely useful tools in many industries. Engineers in the aerospace, biopharmaceutical and semiconductor industries are all familiar with these devices, which are common instruments for measuring certain levels of force or temperature. Ultimately, however, there is no single device of this nature. Instead, you need to find the right device to meet your needs.