20/02/2026
🔺3 things to check in a load cell before installation
Installing a strain gauge load cell is not just a matter of mechanics. Even a high-quality sensor can produce inaccurate results if key details are overlooked before installation.
Experts from AIEN Europe explain what to pay attention to in order to avoid costly mistakes from the very beginning.
📌 Load range and accuracy class
Before installation, make sure that:
✔️ the nominal load range (kg / t) is selected with an appropriate safety margin (usually 20–30%),
✔️ the accuracy class (e.g. C3, C4) meets the requirements of the application.
❗️ Too small a safety margin = risk of overload
❗️ Too large a range = reduced measurement accuracy
Expert tip: always consider real operating conditions, not just the theoretical load.
📌 Environmental conditions (IP rating, temperature, humidity)
The load cell must be suitable for the installation environment:
✔️ IP67 / IP68 – for moisture, washdown, and outdoor use,
✔️ stainless steel – for the food and chemical industries,
✔️ temperature range – especially important in cold storage and production halls.
❗️ A load cell without adequate protection will quickly lose signal stability
❗️ Moisture and chemicals are the most common causes of failure
📌 Correct mechanical installation
Even a perfect load cell will not work properly if:
✔️ the mounting surface is not flat,
✔️ lateral or torsional forces occur,
✔️ appropriate accessories are missing (feet, joints, mounting beams).
Golden rule: the load cell should transfer only vertical force, exactly as intended by the manufacturer.
✅ Summary
Before installing a load cell:
1️⃣ check the load range and accuracy class,
2️⃣ match it to the environmental conditions,
3️⃣ ensure correct mechanical installation.
These are three simple steps that determine the accuracy, durability, and reliability of the entire weighing system.
❓ Looking to select a load cell perfectly suited to your application?
Contact the AIEN Europe team — we will help you choose a solution that performs reliably for years.
Automation Industry
