Load cells – accurate weight control for silos and animals
In modern agricultural enterprises and farms, accurate measurement is the basis for stable profits. Load cells provide weight control for silos, grain storage bunkers, platforms and weighing stations for animals. If you need a reliable load cell or want to buy load cells for your farm or elevator, VADA solutions offer quality that has been proven by engineers and in practice.
What are load cells?
A load cell is a high-precision sensor that converts mechanical load into an electrical signal, providing reliable weight measurement. It is used for:
- controlling the weight of silos and hoppers;
- determining grain residues in real time;
- protecting structures from overloads;
- automating conveyors and grain feeding;
- weighing animals — both on stationary and mobile platforms.
VADA engineers select load cells based on the load, operating conditions and type of your system.
Advantages of load cells
- High accuracy — sensors have a minimum error of 0.02–0.05%.
- Reliability — load cells are characterised by IP67–IP68 protection for operation in an agricultural environment.
- Durability — the sensor can have a stainless steel or alloy steel housing.
- Load cells are compatible with most weighing controllers and indicators.
How a load cell works in a silo for bulk products
The principle of operation is based on the accurate measurement of microdeformation:
- The silo is installed on a set of 3–4 load cells.
- The increase in grain weight creates a load on the metal support.
- Inside the load cell, a sensitive element (strain gauge) deforms.
- The deformation is converted into an electrical signal.
- The controller processes the signal and displays the exact weight in tonnes or kilograms.
The system remains stable even under vibration, high humidity or temperature fluctuations.
With load cells from VADA, you get more than just accurate weight measurements — you get an automated control system for silos and bunkers, and with our range of ready-made grain storage silos, you get a comprehensive turnkey solution for your farm.
Comparison of load cell types
To choose the best solution for a silo, bunker or animal weighing platform, it is important to understand the features of different types of load cells. Below is a comparison of the main models to help you quickly determine which sensor is right for your task.
| Load cell type | Maximum load | Accuracy | Installation | Scope of application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Column | Very high | High | Simple, on silo supports | Large silos, bunkers |
| S-shaped | Medium | Very high | Compact, under platform | Weighing platforms, animal weighing |
| Shear-beam | Medium/large | High | Simple, on supports and beams | Medium and small silos, bunkers, platforms |
Main characteristics of load cells
To ensure accurate and reliable weighing of both grain in silos and animals on platform scales, it is important to choose the right load cells. Below are the key parameters to consider when selecting equipment, as well as an explanation of how they affect the accuracy and reliability of the system.
| Parameter | What it means | What it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Nominal load | The maximum weight that the load cell can measure | Selection based on silo or animal weight |
| Load cell type | Beam, column, S-shaped, shear-beam | Determines installation and accuracy |
| Housing material | Stainless steel, alloy steel | Corrosion resistance |
| Protection class | IP67–IP68 | Operability in wet and dusty conditions |
| Sensitivity | mV/V | Affects measurement accuracy |
| Operating temperature | -30…+80°C | Suitable for outdoor areas |
| Output type | Tensoresistive bridge | Compatibility with weighing controllers |
Why you should buy load cells from the VADA online store
We don't just sell load cells — we create engineering solutions for farms, elevators, and livestock complexes.
With VADA, you get:
- a complete selection of equipment for weighing silos and animals;
- installation kits and expert advice;
- reliability proven in practice on farms across Ukraine;
- the opportunity to buy a load cell or a whole kit at a favourable price.
Buy VADA load cells and control the weight of grain and animals easily and accurately!
FAQ — Frequently asked questions about load cells
It depends on the design. Usually, 3 or 4 load cells are used to distribute the load evenly and achieve high measurement accuracy.
Yes. When combined with the right controller, the system filters out jerks and movements of the animal, ensuring accurate results.
Yes, installation is possible. Our engineers will help you select the support units and adapt the existing structure.