In high stakes industries, the integrity of load data is critical. But engineers and site managers can only be sure their readings are accurate when load cells are well maintained.

Monitel provides installation and maintenance services for strain gauge, hydraulic and other load cells, keeping both premium and affordable units durable and reliable.

This post breaks down the conditions that weaken load cell accuracy and how to maintain a sensor. For more information, contact Monitel.

Why Monitoring Accuracy Matters

Engineers and site managers use load cells and other sensors to inform critical decisions. If readings are out of calibration, it can have serious operational and safety consequences for construction, health and mining operations.

Maintenance schedules and warning systems are also informed by long term trend data. Should signal accuracy drift, those systems could prove inefficient or redundant.

In short: inaccurate sensors create false confidence.

What Causes Load Cell Drift?

There are several internal and external factors that can reduce load cell accuracy over time:

Mechanical Fatigue

Even high precision, robustly built units can deform after many thousands of uses. Just a fractional change can reduce sensitivity and shift data.

Environmental Exposure

Deployment in WA’s regions can leave load cells exposed to volatile temperatures, moisture, dust and chemicals. Without proper installation, all of these can interfere with internal components and data accuracy.

Electrical Noise and Interference

Some models are prone to noise and interference unless they are properly shielded.

Improper Mounting or Use

If a load cell is installed off axis or used beyond its rated capacity, its condition will degrade rapidly. In extreme cases, it won’t be able to gather accurate data even after reinstallation and the asset will be written off.

5 Signs Your Load Cells Could Be Failing

It isn’t always obvious when a sensor is beginning to drift, but those changes could have a catastrophic impact on your data and decision making.

These red flags can help identify failures early:

Gradual rise above a zero reading when no load is applied
Inconsistent readings under identical repeat loads
Excessive noise and fluctuations in output
Readings misaligned with known reference loads
Sudden drops in signal strength and communications failures

How to Properly Maintain a Load Cell

Keeping load cells accurate doesn’t require constant replacement or a full overhaul of your monitoring system. Good maintenance practices will extend the lifecycle of your setup.

Regular Calibration

Arrange annual calibration checks for low use systems and more frequent assessments for critical units. In between checks, use simulated loads to verify readings. As a part of our comprehensive load cell services, Monitel consultants provide ongoing calibration support.

Climate and Environmental Protection

Protect units with weatherproof housings and sealed cabling if your installation is exposed. If using a hydraulic load cell, ensure fluid reservoirs and tubing remain properly sealed and clean.

Proper Mounting and Alignment

Always install sensors according to manufacturer guidelines. Pay particular attention to orientation and load application, as misalignment here can introduce side forces that alter readings.

Monitor Readouts or Data Logs

Most data loggers are capable of running automated trend analysis and triggering drift and anomaly alerts. This is useful for remote and hard to access sites.

Shielding and Grounding

These protect strain gauge and vibrating wire load cells from EMI and other noise.

How Monitel Promotes Ongoing Accuracy in Geotechnical Monitoring

Our consultants understand that end to end service gives engineers and site managers confidence in their data. Monitel will ensure your sensors are accurate and calibrated from system design onwards:

Know your systems are properly selected and installed with installation quality assurance
Consultants provide ongoing calibration services on and off site
Track data with our remote access dashboards
Schedule maintenance as you wish to ensure sensor performance

Enquire Today to Arrange Servicing for Strain Gauge and Other Load Cells

Maintaining a load cell’s value goes beyond installation. Keeping long term data accurate and getting the most out of your investment relies on proper maintenance, monitoring and support.

Monitel consultants can help you devise a strategy that keeps sensors performing to their maximum year on year.

For more information about the price and availability of strain gauge and other load cells, contact Monitel.

Maintaining Data Accuracy in Strain Gauge and Other Load Cells