Question

Load cells are used for measurement of:

• A. Strain
• B. Stress
• C. Velocity
• D. Weight

Hint:

Remember, \textbf{load cells = weight measurement}. Internally they use strain gauges, but the output represents applied force or weight.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

A load cell is a type of transducer that converts a force such as weight into an electrical signal.
This signal can then be measured and standardized. The most common type of load cell used in industry is the strain gauge-based load cell.
Here's how it works:
- When a load or force is applied to the load cell, it undergoes slight deformation.
- This deformation changes the resistance in the strain gauges that are bonded to the structure of the load cell.
- The resistance change is converted into a small voltage change, which is directly proportional to the applied load.
- This allows for precise measurement of weight or force.
Important Clarification:
- While strain gauges are a component within a load cell, the device as a whole is specifically designed and calibrated to measure weight or force, not just strain.
- Stress and velocity are measured using entirely different sensors.
Thus, the primary and most accurate use of a load cell is to measure weight.