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How it Works - Strain Gauge Load Cell


A strain gauge is a long length of conductor arranged in a zigzag pattern on a membrane.

When it is stretched, its resistance increases.
Strain gauges are mounted in the same direction as the strain and often in fours to form a full 'Wheatstone Bridge'.

The diagram above represents what might happen if a strip of metal were fitted with four gauges.

An downward bend stretches the gauges on the top and compresses those on the bottom.

A load cell may contain several similar strain gauges elements.