Load-cell force transducers

The electrical load cell is basically a form of extensometer applied to a tensile or compressive specimen. Any form of extensometer or micrometer indicating device could be employed, but the electrical resistance wire strain gauge is the most convenient for large loads. These load cells are compared with other forms of transducer in terms of energy level and conversion efficiency, so that the most suitable type may be chosen for a particular applicatinn. Measuring circuits are discussed including those using magnetic amplifiers and transistors, together with automatic self balancing bridges of high accuracy.