Load cells (strain gauge transducers) There are currently many (and perhaps not the vast majority) scales using load cell technology. What is a load cell? First, it's a sensor capable of converting one form of energy into another. Most retail bench scale load cells have four "resistive strain gauges" that help measure the force applied to the item to be weighed. These resistive strain gauges are usually made of metal foil or metal film and adhere to flexible metal scale rods, usually made of aluminum or alloy steel. When the scale rod bends (due to the weight of the items on the scale), the resistive strain gauge will deform, causing the electronic signal to pass through to change. This change is proportional to the weight on the scale.
Due to bending and expansion within the load cell during weighing, it is important to confirm the maximum capacity of the scale when you think that the items weighed may be out of the rated range. Bench scales produced in Continental are specifically designed to provide overload protection for load cells, while other equipment may not have this fail-safe function. Therefore, when the load exceeds the rated range of the scale, the load cell will not return to its original form, and subsequent readings will no longer be accurate. When used correctly, strain gauge load cell scales are not only reliable and durable, but also cost-effective. But as with all commercial equipment, it's important to exercise caution and good judgment when using them.
Did you know? The sensitivity of the original strain gauge load cells was not outstanding, and was mainly used to weigh heavy goods, because weighing such goods did not require high precision and accuracy. But then the technology, especially in terms of accuracy, made a major breakthrough.