Rice Lake load cells are integral components of weighing systems used in various industries. They are responsible for converting weight into electrical signals that are interpreted and read by a device called a load indicator. Load cells are made up of different types, but they all have the same function, which is to measure the weight of an object. However, since they are used in diverse environments, they are also prone to damage, and therefore regular testing is necessary. In this article, we will describe how to test a Rice Lake load cell.
Preparation
Before you can start testing your Rice Lake load cell, you need to prepare a few things. The first and most important item you should get is a multimeter. A multimeter is an electronic tool that is used to measure electrical signals. Make sure that the one you are going to use is digital. In addition to the multimeter, you will also need a set of jumper wires, a power supply, a load cell simulator, and a computer or laptop.
Make sure you also read through the Rice Lake load cell's manual and familiarize yourself with the particular device you are testing. You should also ensure that you have disconnected the load cell from the power source before proceeding to test it.
Resistance Test
The first step in testing your Rice Lake load cell is to perform a resistance test. The resistance test involves checking the nominal impedance of the load cell. To do this, use a multimeter to measure the resistance of the wheatstone bridge in mV/V. The normal range of the resistance for Rice Lake load cells is between 350 – 700 Ohms.
If the readings you obtain are outside that range, it is likely that the load cell is damaged. In such cases, the load cell will need to be repaired or replaced.
Zero Balance Test
The next test to carry out is the zero balance test. The zero balance test is designed to check whether the load cell is able to respond when there is no load on it. To do this, connect the load cell to a load cell simulator. Make sure that the simulator is set to output 0mV.
The reading you get on the multimeter should also be 0. If you get a reading that is not 0, it could indicate problems with the load cell. In such cases, you should consult with a professional or contact the manufacturer for further support.
Load Capacity Test
The final test you should conduct is the load capacity test. The load capacity test is designed to determine whether the load cell can cope with a given weight and still provide an accurate reading. Using your load cell simulator, apply an amount of weight to the load cell that is equal to its rated capacity. Check the voltage output of the load cell on the multimeter to see if it corresponds with the expected voltage output provided in the manual.
If the voltage output matches the expected value, the load cell is functioning correctly. However, if the voltage output is different, it may indicate that the load cell has been damaged. In such cases, it will need to be repaired or replaced.
Conclusion
Testing your Rice Lake load cell regularly is crucial to ensure that it performs optimally and accurately. Conducting the three tests mentioned above, namely the resistance test, zero balance test, and load capacity test, will help you identify any faults or issues with the load cell and allow you to take the necessary steps to rectify them. Remember to always read through the manual and follow the manufacturer's instructions when testing your load cell.
"