Silo / Vessel Load Cells

Silo, tank, and vessel load cells are sensors fitted underneath a storage vessel to measure exactly how much is inside it, whether that’s liquid, powder, or other bulk material. As weight is added or removed, the load cells detect the change and send a signal to a display or control system, giving an accurate, real-time reading of what’s in the vessel.

Level sensors can tell you how full a vessel looks, but they don’t always give an accurate picture of actual weight, especially with materials that settle, compact, or vary in density. Weighing with load cells gives a true, reliable figure for what’s actually stored, which matters for stock control, dosing, and process accuracy.

Load cells give highly accurate readings and support process control tasks like filling, dosing, and batching. They also allow real-time monitoring for inventory management, helping to reduce waste, prevent overfilling, and make better use of materials. MWS can provide a full turnkey solution, including installation and calibration, along with expert advice for unusual or challenging applications.

They’re widely used across food and beverage, chemical, pharmaceutical, and bulk material handling industries, anywhere that accurate measurement and process control of stored materials is important.

There are several mounting options to suit different vessels and site conditions, including column load cells, bending beam and compression load cells, and dedicated silo mount and lever mount systems. The right choice depends on your vessel’s size, shape, and support structure, and MWS can advise on the best fit for your application.

Capacities vary widely depending on the load cell and mounting system chosen, from smaller bending beam cells rated at a few hundred kilograms through to heavy-duty silo mounts and compression assemblies capable of handling tens of thousands of kilograms per cell. MWS can help you pick the right capacity for your vessel.

Yes. Fully welded, hermetically sealed stainless steel load cells are available for use in hazardous areas, and rugged designs are built to withstand tough manufacturing environments, making them suitable for demanding industrial sites.

Some load cells are specifically designed to resist earthquakes and strong winds, with a rugged construction that can cope with significant sideways, lengthways, vertical, and lift-off forces. This makes them a good choice for exposed or higher-risk sites.

Regular visual checks of the load cells, mountings, and cabling help catch wear or damage early, and periodic calibration keeps readings accurate over time. MWS offers servicing and calibration support to help maintain reliability and compliance. Learn more about our calibration services.

Yes, indeed! Silo, tank, and vessel load cells and mounting systems can be tailored to your vessel size, capacity, environment, and control requirements. If you’re unsure what you need, our process weighing specialists are happy to offer advice and put together a solution that suits your application.