Lastceller

Lastceller, commonly referred to in English as load cells, are transducers that convert a force or load into an electrical signal. They are core components in weighing systems and force measurement equipment in industry, logistics, and research.

Most lastceller use strain gauges bonded to a deformable element such as a metal bar or shear beam. When a load is applied, the element flexes and the gauges experience a change in electrical resistance. In a bridge circuit (usually a Wheatstone bridge) this resistance change yields an output proportional to the applied load.

Common configurations include single-point, shear-beam, or column types. They vary in capacity, sensitivity, and mounting style. In practice, they are used in platform scales, tank weighing, process control, testing rigs, and laboratory balances. Alternative sensor technologies include capacitive, hydraulic, pneumatic, and piezoelectric load cells, though strain-gauge types dominate.

Specifications typically list rated capacity (RC), output, nonlinearity, hysteresis, repeatability, temperature sensitivity, and protection ratings. Calibration with known weights and temperature compensation is important for accuracy. Proper installation and anti-vibration mounting help reduce errors.

In Swedish contexts, lastceller are designed to meet standards such as OIML or CE marking for measurement devices. They provide high accuracy over a wide range and can be integrated with amplifiers and digital interfaces for data logging. Their limitations include temperature drift, overload risk, and the need for regular calibration.