At Scales Plus, we sell loads of load cells.

• We sell load cells of all shapes, sizes, and capacities.
• We sell load cells for a wide variety of scales, balances, and weighing applications.
• We even sell load cells from many leading manufacturers, such as Rice Lake, Anyload, and Coti Global.

In other words, we know a thing or two about load cells. But with so many kinds of load cells to choose from, you may be asking yourself: Which types of load cells are the most popular amongst scale manufacturers and users today?

Before we answer that, if you’ve gotten this far into the article and have no idea what a load cell is, you’re in luck. We recently published a complete load cell guide, which goes way too in-depth to explain what they are, where they’re located, and how they work. You should probably start there.

For the rest of you, it’s time to discuss the top five most common types of load cells.

1. Single-Point Load Cells

Single-point load cells are the most common type of load cell in existence today and are most often found in bench scales. Frequently constructed from aluminum, single-point load cells are designed for lighter-capacity equipment, with capacities ranging from 1 to 1,000 kilograms.

2. Single-Ended Beam Load Cells

Single-ended beam load cells are the second most common type of load cell and for good reason. Secured at one end with the load applied to the opposite end, these load cells are designed for capacities ranging from 0.5 to 10 tons. Single-ended beam load cells produce highly accurate and reliable measurements and are ideal for bench scales, filling and packaging machines, and other common weighing systems.

3. Double-Ended Beam Load Cells

Double-ended beam load cells are secured at both ends with the load applied to the center, which allows them to take on maximum capacities ranging from 1,000 lbs. to 100 tons. Primarily designed to be used in agricultural and industrial environments, these load cells are commonly used in high-capacity food and chemical production facilities, non-suspended tank scale applications, and module kits to retrofit vessels into scales.

4. Compression Canister Load Cells

Compression canister load cells are typically constructed of stainless steel and operate using a welded compression seal inside the canister. High-capacity load cells such as these are built for reliability, durability, and extreme precision. Compression canister load cells are ideal for applications where optimum precision and durability are required, such as vehicle, truck, and railcar weighing.

5. S-Beam Load Cells

An S-beam load cell (also commonly referred to as an S-shaped load cell) is typically used to measure the weight of a suspended object, with the tension being applied through the stretching force. Capacities of these load cells usually range from 25 lbs. to 20 tons. S-beam load cells are commonly used to provide superior performance in tank weighing, hoppers, suspended loads, and truck scales.

Choose Scales Plus for all your load cell needs

Whether it's a double-ended beam load cell for your company's platform scale or a single point unit for a bench scale, Scales Plus has the equipment and expertise you need to successfully get your operation back up and running!

Browse our full lineup of load cells, including compression disks, shear webs, tension links, and other load cell types we didn’t cover here today. We also offer tons of great module kits for everything you need to start weighing right away. And don't forget that we offer free product support and application assistance from trained and certified technicians, so don't hesitate to contact us if you need any help.