Sizing load cells is a critical task in designing a weighing system, especially when weighing accuracy and consistency are critical parts of your process. Selecting load cells that are too small can result in weigh system failure. Conversely, load cells that are too large may decrease accuracy and cost more to purchase and replace. To help you and your dealer or manufacturer select the ideal load cell size for your weighing application, consider these three key factors before you decide.
Maximum load weight. If you’re weighing small items in small batches, your maximum load weight is likely easy to calculate. For larger items that have live load and dead load weights or scales that are used for a wide variety of items that vary in weight, this calculation can be a bit more complex. An experienced dealer or manufacturer that understands the capabilities of loads cells under these conditions can help you properly size the load cell for your maximum load weight.
Overload. Depending on how your items to be weighed are delivered to the scale, your scale may be subjected to overload from time to time. Overloads can happen for a number of reasons, but they are common in situations where an operator miscalculates a load or over pours or overfills a container for weighing. The potential for this to occur should be factored in to load cell sizing.
Shock load. Shock load occurs when the load to be weighed is suddenly discharged or dumped onto the scale all at once, as opposed to gradual sliding, pouring, or placing the load onto the scale. To respond to this sudden shock, load cells must be adequately sized to account for this possibility and for the amount of force it could involve.
Correctly sizing load cells comes with a thorough understanding of operating conditions and experience with load cell capabilities and performance, so it’s important to work with a knowledgeable dealer or manufacturer.
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