Choosing Load Cells for Tough Applications: Ensuring Reliability in Hostile Environments

Load cells play a critical role in weighing systems by accurately measuring the weight of materials in various applications. However, some applications subject load cells to challenging and hostile environments, such as corrosive chemicals, heavy dust, high temperatures, excessive moisture, high vibration, unequal loads, and other harsh conditions. Failure to select the right load cell for these tough applications can result in weighing errors or even damage to the load cell itself. This blog post will explore the key considerations and features necessary to choose load cells that can withstand and operate reliably in such demanding environments.

Understanding the Environment and Operating Conditions:

 

Before selecting a load cell, it is essential to closely examine the surrounding environment and the operating conditions the system will endure. Consider the following factors:

  1. Dust and Contamination: Will the area be extremely dusty? Dust particles can interfere with load cell performance, so appropriate measures need to be taken.
  2. Temperature Extremes: Will the weighing system be exposed to temperatures exceeding 150°F? Load cells must be able to withstand high temperatures without affecting their accuracy.
  3. Chemical Exposure: What are the chemical properties of the materials being weighed? Corrosive chemicals can damage load cells, requiring careful material selection.
  4. Wash Down Requirements: Will the system be washed down with water or other cleaning liquids? The characteristics of cleaning chemicals and the intensity of washdown play a crucial role in load cell selection.
  5. Moisture Exposure: Will the load cell be exposed to excessive moisture? Factors such as high-pressure spraying or immersion in liquids during wash down should be considered.
  6. Unequal Loads and Shock Loading: Will the load cells be subject to uneven loading or sudden large loads? Load cells must be robust enough to handle these conditions without compromising accuracy.
  7. Vibration and Torque: Will the weighing system be subject to high vibration or torque forces from nearby equipment? Load cells need to withstand these external forces to ensure accurate measurements.