Discover How Strain Gauges Power Load Cell Accuracy

If you’re searching “load cell and strain gauge”, you’re likely wondering how these two technologies are connected. The answer is simple: a strain gauge is the heart of a load cell. While a load cell is the complete sensor that measures force or weight, a strain gauge is the microscopic element that detects tiny deformations in metal when a load is applied.

At Sensors and Gauges, we provide precision load cells and strain gauge solutions trusted across Australia for weighing, automation, and industrial force measurement.

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What is a Strain Gauge?

A strain gauge is a small sensor that measures strain (deformation) on a material. When metal bends under force:

• The strain gauge stretches or compresses

• Its electrical resistance changes

• This resistance change is measured as an electrical signal

👉 Learn More: How Does a Load Cell Work?

What is a Load Cell?

A load cell is a force-to-electricity transducer built using strain gauges. It contains:

• A metal body (steel or aluminium) engineered to deform predictably

• Bonded strain gauges that detect this deformation

• A Wheatstone bridge circuit that converts resistance changes into voltage signals

• Protective housing, cabling, and calibration to ensure accuracy

💡 In short: A load cell = strain gauges + mechanical structure + electronics.

How Load Cell and Strain Gauge Work Together

1. Force/weight is applied to the load cell body

2. The body slightly deforms under load

3. The strain gauges detect this deformation

4. The Wheatstone bridge converts it into an electrical signal

5. Electronics (amplifier, PLC, or display) turn this into a readable weight/force value

👉 Check: Load Cell with 4-20mA Output

Applications of Load Cell and Strain Gauge Systems

• Weighing Scales – retail, industrial, lab

• Cranes & Lifting Systems – safety load monitoring

• Silos & Hoppers – batch weighing in process industries

• Material Testing Machines – compression/tensile force measurement

• Robotics & Automation – precision force sensing

👉 Explore: Load Cell Types Explained

Why Are Strain Gauge Load Cells the Industry Standard?

• ✅ High accuracy (up to ±0.02% FS)

• ✅ Wide capacity range (grams → 500 tons)

• ✅ Cost-effective and reliable

• ✅ Compatible with industrial electronics (amplifiers, PLCs, IoT)

External Resources (DoFollow):

• Load Cell Solutions – Technical insights

• Load Cell Shop – Sourcing strain gauge load cells

Why Choose Sensors and Gauges?

• Australian-based supplier & manufacturer

• Wide range of load cells and strain gauge solutions

• Custom calibration & integration for your system

• Trusted by engineers, OEMs, and industries nationwide

📍 Location: Unit 27/191, McCredie Road, Smithfield, NSW 2164
📞 0477 123 699
📧 sales@sandsindustries.com.au

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