Local Phone: 0845 260 2602
Shear beam load cells are compact, robust transducers designed to measure force by detecting shear strain in a beam element. They are commonly used in industrial weighing applications such as tank and hopper weighing, conveyor weighing, and platform scales.
Built for stability and repeatability, shear beam cells excel in medium-to-high capacities and environments where side loads or off-centre forces may be present.
Double shear beam load cells are particularly suitable for weighing weighbridges, dosage systems, tanks, silos, etc., complete with support and oscillating spherical joint. CE-M approved.
The T85 stainless steel shear beam is a high accuracy load cell that is widely used in industrial weighing applications worldwide
The SB5 is the ideal choice for high accuracy weighing platforms due to the blind-hole load introduction arrangement when combined with the self-aligning feet.
The SB8 bending beam is available in a wide range of capacities from 10kg through to 500kg allowing for a multitude of applications
The SLB is a high accuracy, low profile, full stainless steel constructed bending beam available in a wide range of capacities.
The SB14 is the ideal choice for high accuracy weighing platforms due to the blind-hole load introduction arrangement
Stainless steel approved shear beam load cells, suitable for creating CE-M approved scales with 4 load cells, or for weighing tanks, vessels and hoppers, with the aid of its accessories.
1. What is a shear beam load cell?
A shear beam load cell measures weight by converting the shear stress generated in a beam into an electrical signal using strain gauges. The beam is supported at one or two points and loaded in a way that produces shear in the sensing element.
2. How do they work?
Strain gauges bonded to the beam change resistance when the beam deforms under load. A Wheatstone bridge circuit translates those resistance changes into a millivolt signal proportional to the applied force, which is amplified and converted to weight by an indicator or controller.
3. Where are shear beam load cells used?
Typical uses include silos, tanks, hoppers, platform scales, batching systems, and process weighing. They are ideal for industrial environments requiring ruggedness and reliable performance at medium to high capacity ranges.
4. What are the advantages of shear beam cells?
Key benefits are mechanical robustness, good resistance to off-axis loads, long-term stability, and suitability for harsh industrial environments. They also offer a good cost-to-performance ratio for many scale and process applications.
5. What capacities are available?
Shear beam load cells are available in a wide range of capacities, commonly from a few hundred kilograms up to tens of tonnes. Choose the cell rated nearest to the expected maximum load while allowing headroom for overload scenarios.
6. How should they be mounted?
Proper mounting is critical. Many shear beams use a single or double-ended configuration with dedicated mounting hardware (pins, pivot pads, or load buttons) to accommodate thermal expansion and avoid introducing bending moments. Follow the manufacturer’s mounting instructions and use recommended accessories.
7. Do they require calibration?
Yes — calibration ensures accuracy. Initial calibration is performed during installation and periodic recalibration is recommended depending on usage, process criticality, and regulatory requirements.
8. Can they be used outdoors or in washdown environments?
Many shear beam cells are available in stainless steel and sealed to IP66/67 or higher for outdoor and washdown applications. Confirm the cell’s ingress protection and material specification for the intended environment.
9. What accuracy and repeatability can I expect?
Accuracy depends on the model and capacity. Typical industrial shear beams offer good repeatability and accuracy suitable for process control and commercial weighing. For high-accuracy needs, consult specification sheets for C3/C4 accuracy classes or better.
10. What common problems should I watch for?
Typical issues include incorrect mounting, side loads, electrical noise, damaged cables, and environmental ingress. Use proper mounting hardware, check wiring and shielding, and schedule regular inspections.
