There is wide choice of load cell types available and selecting which type of load cell to use may, at first sight, seem a daunting task. However once the size, type and mode of operation of the weighing system is determined then choosing the type of load cell becomes very straightforward.

Essentially load cells operate in two basic modes.

The weighing vessel (or similar) either sits on one or more load cells -compression mode or hangs from one or more load cells -tension mode.

Although tension applications are relatively easy to set up and gravity ensures optimum load introduction, weighing vessel design and safety considerations usually limit the practical load cell capacity range, typically to 5 tonne and below.