Load Cell Calibration

Load cell calibration is the process of verifying and adjusting (if applicable) the relationship between applied load (force/weight) and the load cell’s output signal so it produces accurate readings across its operating range.

Calibration confirms accuracy and detects drift caused by:

• Mechanical fatigue, overload events, shock loading, or creep

• Temperature cycling and environmental exposure (moisture, corrosion)

• Changes in mounting/fixtures, load introduction hardware, or cable damage

• Electronics changes (instrument replacement, re-ranging, firmware updates)

It depends on risk and use, but common intervals are:

• Every 6–12 months for most industrial applications

• More frequently for safety-critical, trade/regulated, high-cycle, or harsh environments

• After specific events (overload, impact, repair, relocation, cable replacement, or major mechanical changes)

A good rule: calibrate as often as you need to confidently meet your measurement uncertainty and compliance requirements.

• Verification: you check performance against known standards and record results—no adjustments.

• Calibration: you verify performance and may adjust the system (or apply correction factors) to bring it into tolerance.

In practice, customers may use the word “calibration” to mean either—your paperwork should specify what was actually done.

Often, yes—depending on access, loading method, and required uncertainty. Options include:

• In-situ (on-site) calibration using traceable test weights, hydraulic loaders, or transfer standards

• Off-site (laboratory) calibration when best uncertainty, full range access, or controlled conditions are needed

In-situ is convenient but may have higher uncertainty because the mechanical system influences results.

It means the calibration results can be linked through an unbroken chain of comparisons to national/international standards (typically via calibrated reference equipment), with documented uncertainty.

You may need accredited calibration if you operate under quality systems or regulated environments (e.g., ISO 9001 supplier requirements, aerospace, medical, legal-for-trade). If you simply need confidence in performance for internal process control, traceable (non-accredited) may be sufficient. The key is matching the certificate type to your compliance obligations.

Typical quote inputs:

• Load cell make/model and capacity (e.g., 5 t, 50 kN), not always required

• Accuracy class or tolerance requirements (if known)

• Environment and usage (temperature range, outdoor, washdown, hazardous area)

• Whether it’s load cell only or load cell + indicator/amplifier as a process system

• On-site vs off-site preference and location/access constraints

Both are possible:

• Load cell-only calibration assesses the transducer’s output vs applied load.

• System calibration (load cell(s) + junction box + indicator/amplifier + mechanics) validates what your process actually reads.

If your concern is “what the operator sees,” system calibration is usually the better fit.

• As found: performance before any adjustments/repairs—shows drift and current condition.

• Definitive: performance after adjustment/repair (if performed)—shows final condition.

Customers often request both for audit trails.

Common inclusions:

• Identification: serial number, model, capacity

• Calibration method, range, and test points

• Reference standards used and traceability statement

• Results table (output vs applied load), error, repeatability

• Measurement uncertainty (where provided)

• Environmental conditions (temperature/humidity)

• Pass/fail decision against stated tolerances (if requested)

Accuracy depends on:

• Reference standard quality and loading method

• Capacity and design of the load cell

• Test setup (alignment, load introduction, mounting)

• Temperature stability and electrical noise

• Whether calibration is in-lab or on-site

A good provider will specify measurement uncertainty and help you decide if it meets your needs.

Creep is the slow change in output under a constant load over time. Some calibrations include a creep test (e.g., hold at a stated load for a defined period) if it’s relevant to your application, such as batching, tank weighing, or long-duration holds.

Yes—multi-point calibration is standard. Typical sequences include:

• 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, 100% (varies by requirement)

• Increasing and sometimes decreasing runs (hysteresis check)

• Repeatability checks at one or more points

Hysteresis is the difference in output at the same load when approached from increasing vs decreasing direction. It can be influenced by mechanics, mounting, and the load cell’s internal structure. It matters when loads are cycled up and down and you expect the same reading at the same load.

Options typically include:

• Confirm the test setup and mounting conditions

• Inspect for overload evidence, mechanical damage, moisture ingress, or cable faults

• Recalibrate the system (if mechanics are influencing results)

• Repair (if possible) or replace the load cell

• Apply correction factors (where acceptable) and document limitations

Yes. Load cells have temperature effects on zero and span. If your process experiences wide temperature swings, consider:

• Calibrating near typical operating temperature

• Specifying a temperature range requirement

• Using temperature-compensated cells and appropriate cable practices

• Environmental sealing and proper strain relief

Yes we can, provided the test rig can apply the correct direction of force and proper fixturing is used.

Tension requires appropriate pulling fixtures and alignment control; compression requires stable platens and centered load introduction.

Typical ranges:

• Standard lab calibration: often 3–10 working days depending on queue, capacity, and test scope
• On-site calibration: commonly half-day to multi-day depending on number of channels, access, and rigging

Time is mostly driven by setup complexity and whether additional testing (creep, repeatability, temperature characterization) is requested.