Which Load Cell Can Measure 0.1g Changes in 5kg?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenge of finding a load cell capable of measuring weight changes as small as 0.1g within a 3-5kg range for a corrosion sensor project. Participants concluded that load cells with a resolution of 0.1g at this weight capacity are rare and likely unaffordable. An alternative solution proposed involves counterbalancing the weight using a spring suspension or a balance beam with a counterweight, allowing for the measurement of a resultant unbalanced force, which is more feasible.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of load cell specifications and resolutions
  • Familiarity with weight measurement techniques
  • Knowledge of mechanical balance systems
  • Experience with real-time data logging systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research load cells with high resolution specifications, such as those from manufacturers like Omega Engineering or Hitec Products
  • Explore mechanical design principles for balance beams and counterweights
  • Investigate spring suspension systems for weight measurement applications
  • Learn about data logging software compatible with load cells, such as LabVIEW or MATLAB
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for engineers, researchers, and hobbyists involved in sensor technology, particularly those focused on precision weight measurement and mechanical design for experimental setups.

TimThang
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Hey everybody!

I am currently doing a project whereby I have to build a test rig for a certain corrosion sensor. As part of this rig, I have to incorporate a real time weighing mechanism to determine the weight loss of the specimen during corrosion, and log it in a PC.

Hence, I am currently looking for a load cell that is capable of accommodating a dead weight (sensor + speciment) of between 3-5kgs. However, I still require the load cell to be able to detect a weight change of 0.1g. Does anybody know of such a load cell available? If not, does anybody have any other ideas how I can go about doing this.

Thanks!
 
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I thknk the chances of finding a load cell with a resolution of 0.1g in 5kg, or 1 part of 50,000, are about zilch (at least, at a price you are likely to be able to afford).

One idea would be to counterbalance most of the dead weight. You could suspend the completel device from a spring, or design a balance beam with a counterweight. You would have to be careful about friction and protect the complete device from shocks, but buying or making a load cell to weigh a resultant unbalanced force of say 10g to an accuracy of 0.1g would be a much more feasible proposition.
 

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