Single Point Bending Beam Load Cells
The Compact Powerhouse: What Are Single Point Load Cells?
Single point bending beam load cells are compact, high-precision sensors used primarily in small platform scales and weighing applications. They operate using strain gauge technology, which allows them to convert mechanical force into electrical signals, enabling accurate force measurement even under off-centre loading conditions.
What makes them unique is their ability to compensate for eccentric loading, making them ideal for weighing objects that are not placed perfectly in the centre of the platform. This characteristic ensures consistent accuracy across a wide variety of compact weighing setups.
These load cells are commonly found in retail POS systems, laboratory balances, checkweighers, and small process automation equipment.
Load Cells by Sands Industries
Precision Force Measurement from Milligrams to Megatons
Sands Industries supplies high-accuracy load cells for industrial, OEM, and research applications. From crane overload protection to automated filling systems and sim racing pedals, our load cells are designed for performance, repeatability, and integration. We offer custom engineering and local support for projects across Australia.
Applications in Retail & Industrial Scales
Single point load cells are engineered to handle low to medium weight capacities (typically up to 200 kg) with excellent precision. Thanks to their simple mechanical structure and ease of installation, they are extensively used in:
- Retail Scales: Price-computing and checkout systems
- Laboratory Balances: For high-accuracy measurements
- Postal & Parcel Scales: Accurate, compact, and easy to calibrate
- Food Processing Lines: For checkweighing and portioning
- Pharmaceutical Packaging: Where precision is critical
- Industrial Automation: Light load detection in conveyors and sorting machines
Their low-profile design, minimal deflection, and resistance to temperature variation make them one of the most versatile load cell types in electronic weighing.
Technical Specs: Capacity, Material, Sensitivity
While exact specifications vary by model, most single point bending beam load cells share a set of common performance traits:
| Feature | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Capacity Range | 1 kg to 200 kg |
| Material | Aluminium alloy or stainless steel |
| Output Sensitivity | 2.0 ± 0.1 mV/V |
| Non-linearity | ±0.02% of full scale |
| Creep (30 min) | ±0.02% of full scale |
| Protection Class | IP65 – IP67 |
| Operating Temperature | –10°C to +40°C |
High-end versions also support OIML R60 and NTEP certifications, ensuring compliance in regulated environments.
Installation & Mounting Instructions
Installing a single point bending beam load cell requires minimal effort, especially when working with light-duty scale assemblies. However, precision is still critical:
- Mount the Load Cell Rigidly: One end should be fixed securely to the base; the other end supports the platform.
- Platform Size Considerations: Keep the platform size within the max limits specified (usually < 400 x 400 mm) to avoid off-centre loading beyond tolerance.
- Use Proper Fasteners: Ensure bolts and screws are torque-locked to avoid micro-movements.
- Avoid Overloading: Always use overload protection stoppers or limiters.
- Cable Routing: Keep the strain relief intact and avoid sharp bends in the cable to preserve shielding integrity.
Pro tip: For maximum performance, calibrate using known weights and a digital indicator with tare and zero functions.
Single Point vs. Shear Beam Load Cells: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Single Point | Shear Beam |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Low- to medium-weight platform scales | Medium- to high-capacity systems |
| Eccentric Load Handling | Excellent | Limited |
| Installation | Simple – Single load cell per scale | Requires 2+ cells and junction box |
| Common Applications | POS systems, lab balances | Floor scales, hopper and tank weighing |
| Cost | Economical | Moderate to High |
If you’re designing compact, precision weighing systems, single point load cells are hands-down the smartest choice. However, if you’re scaling up for industrial bulk weighing, it’s wise to explore our Shear Beam Load Cells for better distribution of force and load balance.
Why Choose Sands Industries?
At Sands Industries, we provide high-performance load cell solutions built for Australian conditions and global standards. Whether you’re upgrading lab balances, developing embedded weighing in automation, or building custom industrial electronics — we deliver what works.
External References
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