Flintec Learn
What is a Compression Load Cell?
A compression load cell is designed to measure pushing or squashing forces, making it unidirectional and solely focused on measuring downward compression. Typically, a compression load cell is installed underneath the object to be measured or weighed. In contrast, tension load cells are often capable of measuring both tension and compression.
As a major category within the weighing industry, compression load cells are part of a broader spectrum that includes tension, beam, and single-point types. The internal workings of a compression load cell can vary significantly, featuring mechanisms based on shear, bending, ring-torsion, or column measurements. This diversity allows for a wide range of applications, with one of the main uses being in high capacity static weighing scenarios, such as in silos and vehicle scales.
How Do Compression Load Cells Work?
Compression load cells, like all other modern load cells, are essentially transducers that convert force or weight into an electrical signal. They do this with strain gauges attached to the body of the load cell. When under compressive load, the body of the load cell deforms slightly. This is detected by the strain gauges which deform in unison with the body, resulting in a change of voltage. This voltage signal is proportional to the initial force or weight and can thus be used to calculate it.
Design
A classic example of a compression load cell is the column-style or canister load cell. These are typically cylindrical-shaped devices with a mounting surface at the top and bottom ends. Inside there is a central core or column that functions as the weight-bearing element. Strain gauges are bonded to the surface of this column, oriented to detect deformations under load, indicative of load cell compression. Usually, the load cell is encased in an outer sheath for protection and isolation of the internal elements from the environment. Many are hermetically sealed for use in harsh or dangerous environments.
These load cells are robust and accurate solutions, well-suited to applications that involve high-capacity static weighing, demonstrating the practical application of load cell compression. It is vital that the cells are properly aligned during installation, to ensure accurate readings. Typically this is achieved by coupling them with specially designed mounting hardware.
Other common designs for compression load cells, sometimes referred to as compression force sensors, include button load cells, which are compact and low profile, and often used within test and measurement applications. Additionally, thru-hole or doughnut load cells feature a central aperture so that the apparatus can be passed through. An example of such an application is in a pump monitoring system within the oil and gas industry.
Flintec Products
Flintec has several different compression load cells for purchase, accommodating both large and small volume orders. All our products are entirely manufactured by us, ensuring high-quality materials and excellent build quality. Should you need something unique, we can help you with a custom solution. As part of our service offering, our capabilities include mechanical design, electrical and software development, testing and calibration, regulatory and certification governance, as well as fully project managed projects.