What is a Load Cell?

A load cell converts a mechanical force into an electrical signal. In truck scales, load cells are typically mounted beneath the weighing vessel and compress when weight is applied. The load cell produces an analog output signal based on applied force, and it’s transmitted to a controller that converts the signal into a digital weight measurement. There are three main types of load cells, and they transmit this information in different ways:

Types of Load Cell Designs

With so many different scales and applications, load cells are designed in various ways to suit the needs of specific environments. Depending on the equipment used at the site and the items being weighed, load cell needs may vary. Different load cells come in varying sizes, which may impact what kind of mount is suitable for the scale. For heavy-capacity situations such as weighing trucks, the following are frequently used:

Rocker Columns:
Rocker columns are often used as a more affordable solution. However, maintenance costs are higher since these load cells require bumper bolts and check rods in the mounts. In the long term, they may be more expensive than similar solutions.

Double-ended Shear Beams:
For heavy-capacity weighing, double-ended shear beams are a common solution. These load cells have capacities of 1,000 to 200,000 pounds, with sturdy designs secured at both ends while weight is applied to the center where the strain gauge is located.

Canisters:
Canisters withstand 20,000 to 500,000 pounds, ideal for applications with very large shipments. Canisters are cylindrical load cells, designed for force to be applied vertically. These load cells require more maintenance than double-ended shear beams, but the components make it
higher capacity.