OIML Accuracy Classes for Load Cells: An Expert Guide
Recently updated on August 4th, 2024 at 11:58 am
The International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML) sets standards for the accuracy of load cells through its OIML R60 recommendation. These accuracy classes help categorize load cells based on their performance, particularly in terms of precision, error tolerance, and environmental adaptability. The main OIML R60 accuracy classes include D1, C1, C2, C3, C4, and C6, with each class specifying different levels of accuracy and performance.
Load Cell Accuracy Classes and Applications
D1 to C2
These classes provide low accuracy, suitable for simple scales used in weighing materials like sand, cement, or water. They are ideal for applications where high precision is not critical, such as building materials scales.
C3
C3 load cells offer moderate precision and are commonly used in machine construction for applications such as belt scales, platform scales, and other electronic weighing devices. They are ideal for mixing additives in building materials and quality assurance. Of the load cells we provide, C3 is the most common accuracy class.
C3 – C6
C3 to C6 load cells provide high precision, ideal for applications like shop-counter scales, filling machines, dynamic check weighing, and high-precision dosing systems. They are used for measuring grams or micrograms, crucial in food packaging and quality assurance.
C6
C6 load cells offer very high precision, making them ideal for dynamic checkweighers, special shop-counter scales, and vehicle testing. They are used for highly precise production monitoring based on weight, ensuring quality in high-stakes environments such as food packaging and automotive testing. Microtess offers load cells with the high accuracy class C6 already today.
Verification Interval Definitions
The concept of a verification interval is crucial to understanding load cell classes and their applications. Here are some common related terms:
| Term | Definition | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Load Cell Verification Interval | The quantity (expressed in units of mass) into which the load cell’s measuring range is divided for testing purposes. | This interval helps determine the precision and accuracy of the load cell. |
| Minimum Load Cell Verification Interval (vmin) | The smallest quantity (expressed in mass units) that the load cell’s maximum measuring range can be divided into. It represents the smallest increment of weight that the load cell can accurately measure. | Indicates the load cell’s sensitivity and its ability to detect small changes in weight. |
| Maximum Number of Load Cell Intervals (nmax) | The maximum number of divisions that the load cell’s maximum measuring range can be split into. This quantity is determined by the smallest division of mass the load cell can read. | Reflects the resolution of the load cell, which is critical for applications requiring detailed and precise measurements. |
Example Calculations
To illustrate these concepts, let’s consider a load cell with different maximum measuring ranges:
Load Cell with 3,000 kg Range (C3 Class)
- Resolution: 3,000 divisions
- Minimum Verification Interval (vmin): 3,000 kg / 3,000 divisions = 1 kg
- Maximum Number of Load Cell Intervals (nmax): 3,000 kg / 1 kg = 3,000 intervals
Load cells with a lower vmin and higher nmax offer better resolution and are suitable for high-precision applications such as laboratory measurements and quality control.
Choose the Right Load Cells for Your Application with Microtess
Selecting the appropriate load cell accuracy class is crucial for ensuring precise and reliable measurements tailored to your specific application.
Microtess specializes in high-accuracy load cells that meet stringent OIML R60 standards. Our products are designed to provide unparalleled precision and reliability across a range of industrial applications. With a focus on quality and innovation, Microtess load cells achieve up to C6 accuracy, making them ideal for the most demanding tasks.
Explore our range of load cells and discover how Microtess can enhance your measurement systems with unparalleled accuracy and reliability. Contact Microtess today via Kevin@micro-tess.com if you have any questions. We’re glad to help you. Whether you need solutions for manufacturing, research, or any other industry, Microtess provides robust and dependable load cells tailored to your needs.
