Load cells

Load cells are a type of force-measuring sensor. They fall under a category of devices known as force transducers, which are sensors developed specifically for converting mechanical tension, pressure, compression, or loads into an electrical output. The output changes proportionally as any force applied to the load cell increases.

At RS, we're pleased to stock a varied selection of strain gauge load cells. These are the type used most frequently in industrial settings. They are a vital component in a range of testing applications across transport, construction, and other major sectors.

Browse our online selection and start a new load cell sensor order with us today. You can use our handy filter to narrow down your search according to specific criteria, including load cell brand, measurement range, supply voltage, series, and more. And if you have any questions in the meantime, it's easy to get in touch with our friendly team.

How do load cells work?

Our online range is focused on providing strain gauge load cells. These are dominant across multiple sectors and replaced mechanical scales in most industrial weighing applications.

Strain gauge load cells are typically manufactured using very fine wires, or foil, installed in a grid pattern. The gauges are attached – or bonded – to a bending beam that changes shape when weight or pressure is applied. This produces a change in resistance.

Anything with a weighing function is more than likely to rely on a load cell. As a result, load cells are available in an array of sizes and formats.

Offering accuracies in the range of 0.03% to 0.25% full scale, strain gauge load cells are suitable for almost all applications. The only exceptions might be load cells designed for certain environments, such as hydraulic load cells used in remote locations that do not rely on a power supply.

Which load cells are available?

We have tension and compression load cells from some of the biggest brands in the industry. We're dedicated to building strong relationships with our suppliers to ensure that the products we provide serve our customers across a range of applications. Our online load cell range features:

Compression button load cells

Compression button load cells boast an efficient design that makes them suitable when space is at a premium. They also provide impressive long-term durability and stability, so they're ideal for permanent machinery in your manufacturing facility. We stock compression button load cells by TE Connectivity, Honeywell, and other leading brands.

Miniature load cells

If you're looking for a specific but small load cell, we likely stock one in a miniature size to suit your desired application. They can cope with high capacity loads and are ideal for applications with minimal space. We offer an extensive range of miniature load cells by Gefran, all manufactured with corrosion-resistant materials.

Low-profile load cells

Low-profile load cells make an excellent choice for those seeking compression and tension load cells. With clean-cut mounting holes and female threads, these load cells are versatile and easy to install. They're a popular choice for in-line force monitoring. The Gefran standard-size load cells make an excellent example.

Single-point load cells

We also provide hi-spec single-point load cells. Our powerful yet affordable RS PRO 2042770 compression load cell is manufactured using a durable aluminum alloy, giving it long-term, reliable operation. Calibrated to national standards, this load cell is specialized for direct mounting on low-cost weighing platforms.

What are some typical load cell applications?

Some of the most frequent industrial load cell applications include agricultural machinery, medical technology, process control and automation, and crash testing in the automotive industry. Above all, load cells are an imperative part of any industrial weighing machinery or systems and processes that require weighing or compressing.

Why choose RS for new industrial load cells?

Whether you're replacing a part in an old unit or building a brand-new system to drive your profits up, we can help. We're one of the biggest electrical distributors in North America, so we're sure that you'll find a sufficient range of load cell sensors here.

We're proud to offer an unrivaled level of service to our customers. Along with fast and reliable delivery with each order, our expert team is on-hand to support you. Whether you have specific questions about our load cells or you'd like to learn more about the services we offer, please don't hesitate to get in touch and we'll do our best to help.

You can also consult our expert hub for more handy technical information. You'll find a range of how-to guides along with the latest industry news and updates.