Load Sensors

Load Sensors

Load sensors are components of measuring devices that monitor and gauge forces of compression, tension and shear. They communicate to a computer system by sending weight data by converting mechanical force into an electrical output signal. These sensors are used in mechanical testing, ongoing system monitoring and as components in devices such as industrial scales. Load sensors and gauges are used in manufacturing, processing and testing industries. The food processing industry uses them to precisely measure ingredients and for product distribution during packaging. Other applications include the testing of bridge building materials such as beams, for tension strength, as well as in railcar weighing and truck scales. They are important components in calibration systems, and are also used in fatigue testing for research and development laboratories.

The most common type of load censor uses strain gauges, which are very small devices that measure the strain of an object by converting internal deformation into electrical signals to precisely measure weight, force or strain. Force gauges use strain gauges in push-pull testing and flow measurement. While most measure and test with strain gauges, some are piezoelectric sensors which use piezoelectric crystals to measure weight, strain, movement and vibrations. Many of these sensors, although quite small, are built to support or hold as much as several tons, while miniature load cells are build to provide precise measurement for much smaller applications. After load sensors transduce mechanical stress into electrical energy, the information that they monitor is then signaled to a recorder or other computerized data collection system. Load sensors use analog or digital technology for the recording and transferring of information.