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What Causes a Load Cell to Malfunction?

Load cells are at the heart of every weighing operation. A digital load cell is the most crucial component in most of the weighing scales used today. From a simple bathroom scale to advanced weighbridge systems, load cells determine the weight of any item placed on these scales. 

They convert the mechanical force put by a load into electrical output to display it on the weighing indicator. Thus, without a working load cell, weighing scales would show inaccurate readings.

No matter what the industry or application is, be it a crane scale manufacturer or retail scale manufacturer, load cells are essential for the functionality of all types of weighing scales. But at the same time, a load cell can also be very vulnerable. In this blog, we look at a few common causes that can disrupt the working of a load cell.



Overloading Capacity

Load cells can get damaged due to the overloading of a weighing scale. All scales in the market come with a maximum loading capacity. The load cells are also built as per these capacities. Exceeding the limits of a scale’s maximum load can lead to severe damage to the load cells. The consequences of a damaged load cell could be inaccurate weight measurements or a broken machine. This is why users must always stick to the advised weight allowances while using their weighing scales.

 Moisture Damage

Moisture can cause some serious damage to the electronic components of a load cell and disrupt its operational mechanism of it. If moisture gets inside a load cell environment, it will result in the corrosion of the load cell body as well the rest of the scale system. This will lead to inaccuracy during weighing operations, which in turn, will reduce the loading efficiency. To prevent such circumstances, scale operators must often check for any signs of moisture on the scale body and its internal parts.

Chemical Ingress

When it comes to the internal parts of a weighing scale, chemicals can cause the same type of damage as moisture. If a particularly harsh or toxic chemical gets inside a scale’s load cell container, it can lead to heavy corrosion and seriously damage its structure and internal components. This is why chemical storage areas must always be far away from weighing areas in factories or manufacturing units. And if chemicals are being weighed, then operators must take care that nothing is leaked.

Electrical Damage

Power surges in the electrical voltage supply or a lightning strike could cause severe damage to a load cell and make it inoperable. Grounding and shielding can reduce this risk of electrical damage. When it comes to a truck scale load cell, a pit-mounted truck scale with underground installation can be easily protected from lightning strikes. 

Surface-mounted units are more at risk. To ensure that electrical connections are stable with no power fluctuations, make sure the electrical line is not stretched beyond its capacity.

Conclusion

A digital load cell is an integral component in all weighing systems and operations. Hence, scale operators must ensure that the load cell is always in top working condition. 

When considering buying a new weighing scale, opt for a HiWEIGH product. Our load cells are of high quality and promise durability and longevity. To look at our product catalog, please visit our website.

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