Load Cells
Load cells are interchangeable force sensors (often called force transducers) used to record force during a test. On CellScale systems, the load cell is the part you swap to match the expected load range for your specimen and fixtures. Choosing the right capacity is a practical load cell selection step: it helps you avoid running too close to the noise floor on low-force tests or too close to the limit on higher-load runs.
Compatible with: UniVert, BioTester
When to choose load cells: When you need additional or replacement interchangeable load cells to expand your available force range, restore performance, or replace a worn force sensor for new specimen types and protocols.
At a Glance
Interchangeable force sensors (force transducers) that determine measurement range and sensitivity
UniVert load cells span 0.02 N to 1000 N (with the Eclipse force sensor covering 0.02 N to 0.5 N)
BioTester load cells span 0.5 N to 200 N with model-specific compatibility by force range
Selection is central to resolution: choose the smallest capacity that covers peak loads
Supports protocols from low-force biomaterials tests to higher-load workflows on UniVert 1kN and BioTester 6000
What Load Cells Are For
Load cells are not only about maximum force. They set the usable force range for the test, which affects how clearly you can see small changes in a curve. A practical rule for load cell selection is to use the lowest capacity that still covers your peak load with margin, so the signal stays clean without pushing the sensor near its limit.
What a load cell does during a test
During a test, the specimen load is transmitted through fixtures into the load cell’s sensing element. The force transducer deforms slightly under that load, and internal electronics convert that deformation into a force signal. That force signal is what the software plots as force versus time and force versus displacement. It is also the basis for derived values, such as stiffness and strength, plus time-based metrics when holds are used. Without calibrated force sensors (force transducers), the test becomes motion-only and the results are hard to compare.
What's Included
One load cell is included with your UniVert or BioTester system and can be ordered as part of a package for replacements or as additional capacity options.
Included load cell selection at purchase:
- UniVert S: one choice from 10 N, 20 N, 50 N, 100 N, or 200 N
- UniVert 1kN: one choice from 500 N or 1000 N
- BioTester: one X and one Y load cell, force capacity from 0.5 to 200 N depending on model
What you can order:
- Individual force sensors (by capacity and instrument compatibility – see below)
- UniVert Force Packages that bundle load cells and fixtures for specific force ranges
Typical Workflows
Load cells are used when the test method is consistent but specimen stiffness or geometry changes. Proper load cell selection and the use of interchangeable load cells let a lab run comparable protocols across different cohorts and materials without forcing every experiment into a single force range.
Where UniVert load cells are swapped to match specimen stiffness and expected peak loads
Where force sensors are matched to soft gels or stiffer constructs
Using the Eclipse Ultra-Low Force Sensor on the UniVert for the 0.02 N to 0.5 N range
Where BioTester load cells are chosen per axis to match expected loads and mounting approach
Using the Shear Axis on the UniVert to study how materials respond to parallel or sliding forces
Using the Torsion Axis on the UniVert to apply controlled rotational deformation to a specimen
Instrument Compatibility
UniVert load cells
- The UniVert supports a wide force range through interchangeable load cells and the Eclipse Ultra-Low Force Sensor.
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Eclipse Ultra-Low Force Sensor capabilities:
0.02 N, 0.05 N, 0.1 N, 0.2 N, 0.5 N -
Interchangeable UniVert load cells (model-dependant):
1 N, 2.5 N, 4.5 N, 10 N, 20 N, 50 N, 100 N, 200 N, 500 N, 1000 N
BioTester load cells
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The BioTester uses inline force sensors on each axis. BioTester load cells are selected per axis (X and Y) to match tissue type, protocol, and expected peak loads.
Available BioTester load cells (model-dependant):
- BioTester 3000 & 5000: 0.5 N, 1.5 N, 2.5 N, 5 N, 10 N, 23 N
- BioTester 6000: 0.5 N, 1.5 N, 2.5 N, 5 N, 10 N, 23 N, 45 N, 110 N, 200 N
Load Cell Packages for the UniVert
Eclipse Ultra-low Force Package
1–5 N Force Package
10–200 N Force Package
500–1000 N Force Package
Research Applications Supported
Load cell use on the UniVert and BioTester supports a wide range of mechanical testing needs, from low-force biomaterials protocols to higher-load tissue studies.
FAQs
What is a load cell?
A load cell is a calibrated force sensor (force transducer) that measures force during a test. As it is loaded, the sensing element deflects slightly and the device outputs an electrical signal for continuous force recording.
How do I choose the right load cell capacity?
Use load cell selection based on expected peak loads. Choose the smallest capacity that comfortably covers your maximum expected force to improve resolution and reduce overload risk.
Do the UniVert S and UniVert 1kN use the same load cells?
Yes, except for the 500 N and 1000 N load cells which are used on the UniVert 1kN only. The Eclipse Ultra Low Force Sensor is compatible with both models.
Do all BioTester models use the same load cells?
Most do. The 45 N, 110 N, and 200 N load cells are BioTester 6000 only. The 23 N load cell can be used on BioTester 3000, but it requires the Force Capacity upgrade (which is included with the BioTester 5000 and 6000 systems already).
Do labs reorder load cells?
Yes. Labs commonly reorder interchangeable load cells as replacements or to expand force sensor range for new specimen types and protocols.
What are the UniVert Force Packages, and what do they include?
UniVert Force Packages bundle force sensors and matched fixtures so you can cover a specific force range without piecing components together. They are a common way to expand your interchangeable load cells options over time while keeping grips and platens aligned with your expected loads.
See the UniVert Catalogue here for more details
