The difference between weighing sensors and force sensors
2025-10-26
The difference between weighing sensors and force sensors
Core: Measurement ObjectLoad Cell: MassForce Sensor: Force
Measurement PrincipleLoad Cell: Measures the gravity exerted on an objectForce Sensor: Measures any form of force or moment
Unit of MeasurementLoad Cell: g, kg, t, etc.Force Sensor: N, kN, MN, etc.
Measurement RangeLoad Cell: g ~ Several hundred tForce Sensor: Several tens of mN ~ Several tens of MN
Operating TemperatureLoad Cell: -10 ~ 40 °CForce Sensor: High and low temperatures, -40 °C, several hundred degrees Celsius
Loading TimeLoad Cell: Generally short for a single measurementForce Sensor: Long loading time
Loading DirectionLoad Cell: Generally unidirectional, force directed toward the center of the EarthForce Sensor: Unidirectional, tension-compression bidirectional, free installation with no restriction on force direction
Installation FrequencyLoad Cell: Once, usually requires a limit device to prevent the influence of lateral forcesForce Sensor: Multiple times, installation structure designed according to the measurement direction
Parasitic LoadLoad Cell: The force-bearing state is relatively idealForce Sensor: Need to consider the ability to resist parasitic loads, and when necessary, multi-component sensors should be selected for measurement
Calibration MethodLoad Cell: Calibrated using standard weights of known massForce Sensor: Calibrated using a standard force source
Typical ApplicationsLoad Cell: Floor scales, platform scales, hopper scales, belt scalesForce Sensor: Material testing machines, robot joints, thrust testing, industrial process control
Design FocusLoad Cell: High precision, long-term stability, anti-eccentric load capacityForce Sensor: Multi-directional force measurement, dynamic response, overload protection
Can They Be Used Interchangeably?In some cases, they can replace each other, but it is usually not the best choice.