Siemens Shear Beam Load Cells – Precise & Robust Sensors for Tank, Platform & Industrial Weighing

FAQ About Siemens Shear Beam Load Cells

Answers about selection, accuracy, installation, protection classes, multi-cell systems, calibration, and integration.

What is a shear beam load cell?

A shear beam load cell measures weight based on shear deformation of the sensor body. Strain gauges detect this deformation and generate an electrical signal proportional to the applied load.

Where are Siemens shear beam load cells typically used?

Typical applications include tank and silo weighing, platform and floor scales, filling and dosing applications, mixing vessels, and multi-cell industrial scale setups.

What are the advantages of a shear beam load cell?

Shear beams are very robust, less sensitive to side loads, and provide excellent long-term stability and measurement accuracy. They are ideally suited for multi-cell systems.

Which protection classes are available?

Siemens shear beam load cells are available in stainless-steel designs with protection classes from IP67 up to IP68/IP69K—suitable for harsh industrial conditions, washdown applications, and outdoor use.

Are Siemens shear beam load cells legal-for-trade?

Yes, many models are certified according to OIML R60 (e.g., C3 for legal-for-trade Class III applications). Legal compliance depends on the complete weighing system (load cell + electronics + calibration).

What accuracy can be achieved?

Industrial Siemens shear beam load cells typically achieve OIML classes such as C3 or higher. Overall system accuracy depends on mechanical design, installation quality, and the weighing electronics used.

How should shear beam load cells be installed mechanically?

Important aspects include a flat, rigid mounting surface, stress-free installation, minimizing side loads, and ensuring a defined vertical force path. Using weighing modules is strongly recommended.

How are multi-cell systems implemented with shear beams?

Typically, 3 to 4 shear beam load cells are used together with a junction box. Proper load distribution, structural symmetry, and installation height must be considered.

Which rated loads are commonly available?

Shear beam load cells typically cover rated loads from around 50 kg up to more than 5 tons, depending on the series and model.

How do side loads affect measurement?

Shear beams are less sensitive to side loads than bending beams, but mechanical decoupling is still important to prevent measurement errors or overload situations.

Which materials are used?

High-quality stainless-steel constructions provide excellent corrosion resistance and hermetic sealing, making them suitable for hygienic and heavy-duty industrial applications.

How are the load cells electrically connected?

Siemens shear beam load cells provide a standardized mV/V strain-gauge signal with 4- or 6-wire wiring. Versions with SENSE lines compensate for cable losses.

Can Siemens shear beam load cells be used with SIWAREX electronics?

Yes, they are fully compatible with SIWAREX weighing modules and can be seamlessly integrated into SIMATIC / TIA Portal.

How is a tank or silo weighing system calibrated?

Calibration is typically performed using test weights or reference water filling. The procedure includes zeroing, applying multiple calibration points, documentation, and verification of repeatability and linearity.

What are common error sources?

• Insufficient structural rigidity
• Rigid pipe or cable connections
• Uneven load distribution
• Vibration or dynamic loads
• Temperature gradients or localized heating

What advantages do shear beams offer over bending beams?

They are more robust against side loads, support higher load ranges, and provide excellent long-term stability in multi-cell configurations.

Which accessories are recommended?

Weighing modules with side-load and lift-off protection, rocker or pendulum bearings, and junction boxes for multi-cell systems.

Does ICS Schneider provide technical support?

Yes—ICS Schneider Messtechnik assists with selection, design, integration, and calibration/documentation topics.

How can I request a quotation?

You can add items to the inquiry list directly on the product page or contact ICS Schneider via phone or email with application details for a tailored quotation.