Product Description

BSS S-type load cell overview

The BSS is an alloy steel S-type load cell engineered for accurate force measurement in both tension and compression. Its inline, double-ended threaded design makes it one of the most versatile S-beam load cell sensors available, well-suited for applications where a load path passes directly through the sensor: hanging scales, tensile test rigs, silo weighing systems, and process control equipment that alternates between pull and push forces. With ±0.02% nonlinearity and a 150% safe overload rating, the BSS S-beam delivers lab-grade accuracy at an aggressive price point. NTEP certification (CoC 97-028) is included on models from 250 lb to 2,500 lb, making it legal-for-trade in commercial weighing applications.

Capacity range
250 lb
up to 20,000 lb
Nonlinearity
±0.02%
of rated output
IP rating
IP67
dust & waterproof
Safe overload
150%
of rated capacity

Typical applications

The BSS S-beam load cell is commonly specified for applications where forces are applied axially and may alternate between tension and compression.

Tank, hopper, and silo weighing
Used as a tension link in overhead hanging tank systems, suspended hoppers, and silo weighing installations. The BSS S-type load cell threads directly into the load path, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets in many configurations.
Tensile force and materials testing
The S-beam geometry handles pure axial loading cleanly, making it a reliable beam load cell sensor for tensile test frames, pull testers, and OEM force measurement equipment where a calibrated inline sensor is needed.
Batching and process control
Well-suited for blending and mixing systems, belt scales, and loss-in-weight feeders where repeatable, stable readings are required under continuous cyclic loading conditions.
Suspended weighing and crane scales
Rated up to 20,000 lb with a threaded connection on both ends, the BSS S-beam integrates easily into overhead lifting and hanging scale assemblies, including those requiring NTEP legal-for-trade certification.
OEM integration and custom builds
The compact, standardized S-type load cell footprint and industry-common threaded mounting make the BSS easy to integrate into custom OEM machines, test fixtures, and proprietary weighing platforms without modification.
Force monitoring and feedback systems
Compatible with standard analog weight indicators, transmitters, and DAQ systems via its 3.05 mV/V output signal. Suitable for real-time force feedback, overload detection, and closed-loop control.

Technical notes

Installation and alignment

S-type load cells require axial alignment between the two threaded connections. Off-axis or side loading will degrade accuracy and may cause premature fatigue. For best results, use swivel rod ends or clevis attachments at both connection points to allow self-alignment under load. All threaded rods must be inserted a minimum of one full thread diameter into each end to ensure structural integrity.

System integration

The BSS S-beam load cell operates at a rated excitation of 10V DC/AC (15V max) and produces a 3.05 mV/V analog output signal. It is compatible with any standard weight indicator, PLC analog input, or load cell conditioner accepting a mV/V bridge input. For multi-cell systems, a load cell summing junction box is used to balance and combine outputs before passing a single signal to the indicator.

Key specifications
Rated output
3.05 mV/V ±1.64%
Zero balance
±1% of rated output
Nonlinearity / Hysteresis
±0.02% RO each
Temp. effect on output
≤0.002% /°C
Safe temp. range
−10°C to +70°C
Insulation resistance
≥5,000 MΩ at 50V DC
Input impedance
387 Ω ± 5 Ω
Output impedance
350 Ω ± 3 Ω

Cable wiring

The BSS ships with a 20 ft (6 m) cable. Standard color code:

■ RED +Excitation
■ BLACK −Excitation
■ GREEN +Signal
■ WHITE −Signal
Drop-in replacement for

The BSS is a direct mechanical and electrical substitute for the following S-type load cell models. No wiring or mounting changes are required when upgrading or replacing:

Rice Lake RL20001
Vishay Sensortronics 60001
RTI 363
Vishay Celtron STC

Interchangeable

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Close-up view of clevis joint

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