Understanding Hydraulic Load Cells: Applications and Principles
Hydraulic load cells are the key component found in precise weight measurement systems used around the globe. Here’s everything you need to know about these versatile and ultra-reliable pieces of hardware.
What Are Hydraulic Load Cells?
A hydraulic load cell is a sensor that converts a mechanical force into a measurable pressure. As their name suggests, they use fluid pressure to determine weight or force, which makes them better suited for environments where electrical components might pose risks or face interference.
How Hydraulic Load Cells Work
Hydraulic load cells feature a piston-cylinder arrangement that’s filled with a certain fluid, typically oil. When a load is applied, it exerts force on the piston and causes a corresponding increase in the internal fluid pressure. A hydraulic pressure gauge receives that change and then displays the force measurement (i.e., weight in pounds or kilograms).
Applications of Hydraulic Load Cells
Hydraulic load cells are versatile pieces of equipment that are used in a variety of applications, such as the following:
Heavy-Duty Weighing in Industrial Scales
Industrial scales use hydraulic load cells to weigh large containers, silos, and hoppers. The cells are capable of supporting such heavy loads and are less prone to wearing out under rigorous daily use.
Vehicle and Axle Load Measurement
The transportation industry relies on hydraulic load cells to weigh vehicles and measure axle loads. It’s a practice that helps carriers stay within safe operating limits and avoid fines or other regulatory headaches.
Several other industries use load cells to weigh vehicles as well. For example, scrap yards will obtain an entry and exit weight to calculate how much material customers drop off. They will subtract the exit weight from the entry weight and pay customers for the difference.
Extreme Environments
One of the standout features of hydraulic load cells is their ability to hold up in some of the roughest conditions. Users can deploy scales powered by hydraulic load cells in both high-temperature and freezing conditions, and they even work underwater. The cells maintain accuracy without being affected by electrical interference and are less susceptible to environmental changes overa
Key Advantages of Hydraulic Load Cells
There are several reasons why hydraulic load cells have become the preferred option for weighing systems. Chief among them are the following
Durability in Harsh Environments
If you need components that will hold up against rigorous daily use or survive extreme temperatures, hydraulic load cells are a clear choice. They are constructed with rugged materials and devoid of sensitive electrical components, which means you can trust them to deliver accurate readings despite exposure to moisture or dust.
High Accuracy and Reliability
The margin for error is minimal when you are weighing items for customers or verifying that vehicles are within legal operating limits. Hydraulic load cells offer a high degree of accuracy and reliability, largely due to the linear relationship between applied force and hydraulic pressure. Changes in force result in predictable changes in pressure and the corresponding weight readout on your scale.
Resistance to Electrical Interference
Environments that produce significant amounts of electromagnetic interference are not suitable for traditional load cells with electrical components. Hydraulic load cells are immune to such interference, ensuring consistent and accurate readings.
Minimal Maintenance Requirements
With fewer moving parts and no electrical circuitry, hydraulic load cells require minimal maintenance. That low upkeep translates to reduced downtime and cost savings over the equipment’s lifespan.
Choosing the Right Load Cell for Your Application
Selecting the appropriate load cell involves considering factors such as the volumes of weight you’ll be working with and what sort of environment you operate in. You should also consider whether the cells are compatible with your existing systems.
Hydraulic load cells are particularly advantageous in scenarios where durability and resistance to environmental factors are your top priorities. And the clear benefits they provide justify the high initial investment. They require less maintenance and can provide a longer lifespan in difficult conditions, which will provide a strong return on investment while promoting business continuity.
Why Superior Scales?
When it comes to precision weighing solutions, Superior Scales stands out for our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. We offer a comprehensive range of hydraulic load cells and have a team of experts ready to assist with everything from product selection to installation and upkeep.
Don’t settle for subpar components to power your weighing equipment. Turn to Superior Scales and use modern solutions like hydraulic load cells to ensure your scales can get the job done.