Load cells are force sensors. It converts forces such as tension, compression, pressure or torque into measurable and normalized electrical signals. As the force applied to the load cell increases, the electrical signal changes proportionally, and the change in the magnitude of the electrical signal becomes a specific weight value through the conversion of the instrument. This is the basic principle of the scale to measure the weight.

Load cells usually consist of elastomers with strain gauges. Elastomers are usually made of steel or aluminum. It is very strong and has little elasticity. Elastomers made of steel or aluminum deform a certain amount under load, but then return to their original position, responding elastically to the load. These deformations of the strain gauges are measured by analytical electronics to determine the weight.

There are many types of load cells used for different purposes. Common types include:
Single point load cell: usually used in small to medium floor scales, placed under heavy objects.
Curved Beam Load Cells: Multiple load cells are placed under the steel structure and loaded with weights from above, used for pallet, platform and small hopper scales.
Compression Load Cells: Multiple high-capacity load cells are placed under the steel structure and loaded with weights from above for truck scales, large platform scales, floor scales and hopper scales.
Shear beam load cell; for small scale and process applications.
Dual Shear Beam Load Cell; for truck scale, tank and hopper applications.
S-type load cell; for tension applications, capable of measuring static and dynamic loads.
Many load cells also have additional features, such as special designs or functions, depending on the application.

Load cells can also be classified according to the type of signal transmission: digital load cells have built-in electronics for processing, displaying and transmitting the measurement results. For analog load cells, additional equipment is required - a measuring amplifier.