I have a load cell to measure the force of the puller. What is the easiest way to tell if load cell is working properly. Also, How do i check if there is a problem with the amplifier.
Ahh, days of my youth.
you will need some info on the load cell and a multimeter capable of measuring millivolts.
First use the multimeter to confirm excitation voltage to the load cell on the +Exc and -Exc wires at the summation box or at the amplifier.
Colour codes for load cells vary, but common is +Exc(Red) -Exc(Black) +Sig(Green) -Sig(White).
Ensure the +Sense is connected to the +Exc and -Sense connected to the -Exc , if these wires are required.
Note the voltage, example 10Vdc or 12Vdc.
Next, wil no load on the load cell, use the millivolt setting to measure the signal from the load cell on the +Sig, -Sig wires.
Typically load cells have a millivolt/volt rating , usually 2mv/V or 3 mv/V. This means if a 1000lb load cell is applied with 10V volts excitation, at 1000lb of load a full load signal of 20mv , for a 2mv/V rating, or 30mV full load signal for a 3mv/V rating.
With no load , the +Sig -Sig should be close to 1 or 2 mv signal.
Place a known load on the load cell, and the resulting signal should be a percentage of the full load signal based on (Known Weight/Full load weight) * (Excitation voltage * mv/V rating)