The Load Cell field is functionally segmented by the type of force measured and the physical design best suited for that application, with Compression Load Cells and Shear Beam Load Cells being two of the most popular and high-volume product categories. Compression cells are designed to measure forces pushing down on them; they are robust, highly durable, and capable of handling extremely high capacities, making them the standard choice for heavy-duty applications like large tank weighing, silo inventory, and vehicle weighbridges.
Shear Beam Load Cells, including the popular Single-Ended and Double-Ended designs, are versatile, typically rectangular in shape, and designed to measure the sheer stress caused by a load. They are highly valued for their compact size and superior resistance to side-load forces and bending moments, making them the industry standard for general industrial platform scales, batching plants, and conveyor weighing systems where space and durability are important considerations.
This diversity in design allows manufacturers to precisely match the load cell type to the application's mechanical and environmental requirements, ensuring optimal accuracy and longevity. The combination of the high-capacity reliability of compression cells and the application flexibility of shear beam designs continues to solidify their position as the workhorses driving the essential industrial applications of the entire force-measurement Load Cell field.
FAQ
Q: What is the main application of Compression Load Cells? A: They are used for high-capacity, heavy-duty applications where force is applied downward, such as in truck scales, large silos, and tank weighing systems.
Q: Why are Shear Beam Load Cells preferred for general industrial platform scales? A: They are versatile, compact, and offer superior performance by resisting side-load forces and bending moments common in standard platform weighing.