Siemens Platform Load Cells – Single-Point Load Cells for Bench & Platform Scales

FAQ About Platform Load Cells

Answers about design, selection, accuracy, protection ratings, SIWAREX integration, installation, calibration, and best practices for Siemens platform load cells.

What are platform load cells and where are they used?

Platform load cells are compact single-point load cells mounted under a weighing platform. They compensate corner load errors internally and are commonly used in bench and platform scales, checkweighers, filling/dosing equipment, packaging machines, and small container weighing applications.

Which Siemens platform load cells are available in this category?

This category includes Siemens platform load cells from the SIWAREX WL260 SP-S series in several versions: AA (cost-efficient standard), AB (wide load range), AE (very small loads), SA (stainless steel, IP67), SB (stainless steel, IP68, legal-for-trade Class III), and SC (stainless steel, IP68/IP69K, high precision).

What is the difference between WL260 SP-S AA, AB, AE, SA, SB, and SC?

The versions differ in load range, accuracy, material, and protection class. AA is a cost-effective standard cell; AB covers a wide load range; AE is optimized for very small loads; SA is stainless steel with IP67 for industrial environments; SB is stainless steel with higher protection and suitable for legal-for-trade scales; SC combines stainless steel, a very small deflection, and high resolution for demanding precision applications.

Which platform sizes and load ranges are supported?

Depending on the model, Siemens platform load cells support a variety of rated loads and platform dimensions—from compact bench-scale platforms to typical industrial platform sizes. Detailed platform limits and load ranges are provided in the technical datasheets and can be verified with ICS Schneider upon request.

Are Siemens platform load cells legal-for-trade?

Yes. Selected Siemens platform load cells of the SIWAREX WL260 SP-S series are OIML R60-approved, e.g. in accuracy class C3 for Class III legal-for-trade scales. Full conformity depends on the entire scale system, including electronics and calibration.

What accuracy can be achieved with Siemens platform load cells?

Depending on the model, the platform load cells offer high resolution and accuracy suitable for industrial and legal-for-trade applications. High-end versions like WL260 SP-S SC deliver very high division counts for fine resolution. Actual system accuracy also depends on mechanical design, weighing electronics, and calibration quality.

What protection classes and materials are available?

The WL260 SP-S series includes aluminium and stainless-steel variants. Protection classes range from IP67 up to IP68/IP69K. Stainless-steel models with hermetic sealing are ideal for washdown, hygienic, and outdoor applications such as food, beverage, and pharmaceutical environments.

Which industries commonly use Siemens platform load cells?

Typical industries include food & beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical, packaging and filling, logistics, machinery & automation, and general industrial manufacturing—any environment where precise platform weighing or dosing is required.

How do I select the right platform load cell?

Key factors include required rated load (platform weight + max load + safety margin), platform size, accuracy requirements, environmental conditions (moisture, cleaning, temperature), legal-for-trade requirements, and integration with PLC/electronics. ICS Schneider supports customers in selecting the optimal WL260 SP-S model.

What should be considered for mechanical installation?

The load cell must be installed on a flat, rigid, stress-free mounting surface. Proper force introduction, avoidance of side loads, binding, and friction, and suitable overload protection are essential. The installation guidelines in the datasheet should always be followed.

How does corner compensation work in single-point load cells?

Single-point load cells such as SIWAREX WL260 SP-S are internally designed to compensate corner load errors. Within the specified platform size, they provide nearly identical readings regardless of where the load is placed, eliminating the need for multi-cell platform setups in most applications.

Can multiple platform load cells be combined in one scale?

Platform load cells are usually intended to be used as a single load cell per platform. For larger platforms, tanks, or hoppers, shear beam or bending beam load cells in multi-cell configurations are typically used. Combining multiple single-point cells is possible in special cases but should be evaluated with ICS Schneider beforehand.

How are Siemens platform load cells electrically connected?

The load cells operate as a strain-gauge Wheatstone bridge with sensitivity in the mV/V range. Depending on the model, a 4-wire or 6-wire connection is available, with SENSE lines used to compensate cable losses. They connect to any compatible weighing transmitter, such as SIWAREX electronics.

Do the load cells integrate with SIWAREX and SIMATIC systems?

Yes. Siemens platform load cells are designed for seamless use with SIWAREX weighing modules and integration into SIMATIC and the TIA Portal. This ensures a continuous solution from the sensor to the PLC, including diagnostics and parameter configuration.

Are these load cells suitable for harsh or hygienic environments?

Yes. The stainless-steel versions WL260 SP-S SA, SB, and SC with high protection ratings and hermetic sealing are ideal for washdown, hygiene-critical, and industrial environments. They withstand moisture, cleaning agents, and frequent wash cycles.

What are the benefits of the low deflection of the WL260 SP-S SC?

The WL260 SP-S SC features an extremely small nominal deflection, enabling very rigid and dynamic weighing structures. This improves stability, reduces vibration sensitivity, and allows high-precision performance in fast dosing and inspection tasks.

How is a platform scale with a Siemens platform load cell calibrated?

Calibration is performed using test weights or defined reference loads. After zeroing, one or more calibration points are applied and configured in the weighing electronics (e.g., SIWAREX module). The system is verified using repeatability checks, corner load tests, and documented if required.

What are typical error sources when using platform load cells?

Common issues include platform misalignment, rigid attachments (pipes, cables, scrapers), uneven load distribution, vibration, and temperature gradients. Proper mechanical design, stress-free mounting, and vibration isolation help ensure stable results.

Does ICS Schneider provide support for selection, design, and integration?

Yes. ICS Schneider Messtechnik provides support with load cell selection, system dimensioning, SIWAREX integration, installation advice, calibration, and full weighing system design upon request.

How can I request a quotation or technical consultation?

You can add your preferred load cell to the inquiry list on the product page or contact ICS Schneider Messtechnik directly by phone or email. Based on your platform size, load range, and environmental conditions, you will receive a tailored technical recommendation and quotation.