4 Description of load cells

A load cell provides an output proportional to a force resulting from applying a load. Load cells may be used as a single transducer or applied together with other load cells in a system where the design allows such application. The term “load cell” in this Recommendation is not limited to any particular type of technology or design principle.

While many technologies are used in the design of load cells, those used in legal metrology applications are commonly designed to provide an electrical output relative to a mechanical input. Both analogue and digital outputs are recognised in load cells within that category. Although strain gauge technology was a primary focus in the development of R 60, it is to be understood that load cells that operate using other principles may also be evaluated under this Recommendation. Variations of transducers that operate using alternative basis of input/output may include, but are not limited to pressure (e.g. hydraulic, pneumatic), vibratory frequency and magnetic forces.

The term load cell may describe an elemental component/module or a somewhat more complex instrument including constituents that perform functions such as signal filtering and analogue-to-digital conversion.