What is a load cell and why is it better than the levers of a mechanical transducer?
A. A Load Cell is a solid block of metal with strain gauges bonded to it. The strain gauge measures the forces induced in the metal when weight is applied to it. These forces are converted into electrical signals and displayed as weight on the digital display. This type of sensor is ideal when factors such as accuracy and repeatability and durability are crucial. The mechanical transducer uses a system of levers and pivots relying on sharp knife-edges to reduce the amount of friction that will, by its own nature, interfere with the weight reading. When these edges become dirty and worn, they lose the ability to weigh accurately. The advantage of load cell technology is the elimination of all moving parts. There is nothing to wear out with age or to damage with transport.
