A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Weight Sensor

A weight sensor is an electronic device that measures force or load and converts it into an electrical signal. Depending on the design, application, and capacity, weight sensors go by different names such as load cells, strain gauge sensors, piezoelectric sensors, or capacitive sensors.

At Sensors and Gauges, we provide a complete range of weight sensors for everything from kitchen scales and IoT projects to industrial weighing systems.

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Common Weight Sensor Names

Here are the most widely used weight sensor types and names:

1. Strain Gauge Load Cell

• The most common weight sensor type.

• Works by detecting strain (deformation) on a metal element.

• Applications: Weighbridges, industrial scales, material testing.

2. Capacitive Weight Sensor

• Detects changes in capacitance as load is applied.

• Applications: Low-weight precision measurement, touch-sensitive devices.

3. Piezoelectric Weight Sensor

• Uses crystal deformation to generate voltage.

• Applications: Dynamic force measurement, vibration monitoring.

4. Hydraulic Weight Sensor

• Measures weight based on fluid pressure changes.

• Applications: Heavy-duty machinery, large-scale weighing.

5. Pneumatic Weight Sensor

• Uses compressed air pressure to detect load.

• Applications: Environments where electrical sensors are unsuitable.

👉 External Resource: Load Cell Shop

Names of Weight Sensor Configurations

Depending on the shape and use case, weight sensors are also known as:

• Single-Point Load Cell → Used in retail/kitchen scales

• S-Type Load Cell → Ideal for tension and compression

• Shear Beam Load Cell → Used in hopper & tank weighing

• Button Load Cell → Compact, high-force measurement

• Pancake Load Cell → Flat design for high-capacity loads

• Canister Load Cell → Suitable for weighbridges and heavy trucks

👉 Related: Load Cell for Compression

How to Identify a Weight Sensor by Name

When selecting a sensor, look for:

🔎 Capacity → (1kg, 50kg, 100t etc.)
🔎 Type → (Strain gauge, piezoelectric, capacitive)
🔎 Shape/Design → (S-type, button, beam, pancake)
🔎 Application → (Industrial weighing, IoT, automotive, aerospace)

Applications of Different Weight Sensor Types

✔ Industrial Weighing → Canister & shear beam load cells
✔ Retail & Kitchen Scales → Single-point sensors (1kg–10kg)
✔ IoT & DIY Projects → 1kg–5kg sensors with HX711 modules
✔ Automotive Systems → Seat weight sensors, suspension load sensors
✔ Aerospace & Defense → High-precision button or pancake load cells

👉 Related: Load Cell for Arduino

Why Buy From Sensors and Gauges?

✔️ Full range of weight sensors by type and capacity
✔️ Custom solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT
✔️ Expert support for calibration and integration
✔️ Australia-wide shipping from our Sydney hub

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

👉 Request a Quote for Your Weight Sensor Today

Smart Tip 💡

When searching for a weight sensor name, always consider both the technology (strain gauge, capacitive, piezoelectric) and the configuration (S-type, single-point, beam) to ensure you pick the right one for your application.

Final Thoughts

The term “weight sensor” covers many technologies and designs, often referred to by different names like load cell, strain gauge sensor, piezo sensor, or single-point sensor. Each has a specific role, from kitchen scales to aircraft testing.

At Sensors and Gauges, we offer all major weight sensor types and help you select the best-fit sensor for your project or industry.

👉 Get the Right Weight Sensor by Name Today