Force Calibration Simplified: Expected Performance in Load Cell Calibration Procedures

Force Calibration Simplified: Expected Performance in Load Cell Calibration Procedures

Expected performance in load cell calibration procedures is a key concept that we have adopted at Morehouse. The term likely originated from discussions during ASTM committee meetings among industry experts. Expected performance helps define how accurately a force-measuring tool works when tested under ideal laboratory conditions. This benchmark gives technicians and quality managers a solid prediction of how their equipment will perform in the field—if it's used properly.

Force calibration helps ensure tools like load cells, force gauges, and dynamometers provide accurate and consistent results. At Morehouse, our goal is to simplify the force calibration process so anyone can get precise measurements and extend equipment life. Whether you're a technician, engineer, or quality manager, this guide will help you understand load cell calibration and improve force measurement accuracy.

What Is Expected Performance in Load Cell Calibration?

Expected performance describes how accurately a force-measuring tool (like a load cell) performs when tested under ideal lab conditions. In our ISO 17025-accredited lab, we use deadweight machines and precision systems to ensure top-tier accuracy.

For example, a 10,000-pound load cell with an error of only ±0.5 pounds has an expected performance of 0.005 % of full scale. However, once that load cell is used outside the lab, differences in setup and conditions can reduce accuracy.

Why Load Cell Performance Changes (De-Rating)

Any change in setup after calibration can reduce accuracy. This process is called de-rating. Here are some typical levels of performance:

• Lab conditions: 0.005 % FS (best-case scenario)
• Minor changes: 0.01 % FS
• Normal shop use: 0.03% to 0.05 % FS
• Poor setups: 0.1 % FS or more

Temperature changes, mismatched adapters, and swapped cables are common causes of drift and error.

Figure 1 Force Calibration Simplified: Expected Performance

What Affects Load Cell Accuracy?

These are the top five factors that impact load cell accuracy:

1. Adapters
   Improper adapters can cause bending, twisting, or side forces. Always use the same adapters that were used during calibration.
2. Setup and Alignment
   If the system isn’t level, square, or rigid, your measurements won’t be accurate. Our lab setups are precisely aligned to avoid this.
3. Temperature
   Calibration is done at stable room temperatures. If you use your equipment in hot or cold conditions, performance may suffer.
4. Cables and Indicators
   Changing cables or meters changes the system’s electrical characteristics. Stick with the original setup for consistent results.
5. Load Cell Quality
   Higher quality load cells with tighter specs perform better under varying conditions. Budget models may degrade quickly.

What Accuracy Can You Expect After Calibration?

If you use a Morehouse-calibrated load cell:

• With original cables, adapters, and indicators
• At similar environmental conditions as calibration

You can likely expect accuracy around 0.01 % FS or better. If you make changes or use poor setups, your results may degrade to 0.03 %–0.1 % FS or worse.

How to Improve Load Cell Calibration Results

Here’s how to reduce uncertainty and get reliable results:

• Send in your complete system for ISO/IEC 17025 calibration
• Use proper alignment adapters and the tension members with sphericals
• Avoid side loading, bending, and limit torsion
• Maintain stable temperature conditions
• Run reproducibility and repeatability tests under consistent conditions

Summary: Accurate Force Calibration Made Simple

Expected performance shows how repeatable and accurate your load cell can be—if you match the lab setup. A system calibrated at 0.005 % FS in the lab may still perform close to that in real use, as long as best practices are followed.

To reduce drift and improve accuracy:

• Replicate the calibration environment
• Use the correct adapters and cables
• Follow good calibration practices every time
• Use high-quality electrical systems with 6-wire connections
• Always send the adapters you use with the load cell system in with it for calibration

• Let your calibration provider know how you are using the load cell system, and work with them to help replicate your use case.

For more expert tips, download our eBook Force Calibration for Technicians and Quality Managers, read our blog post “My Load Cell Calibration Does Not Match What the Certificate Says,” or attend a Morehouse calibration training webinar.

Force Calibration Simplified: Expected Performance in Load Cell Calibration Procedures - Conclusion

We believe in changing how people think about Force and Torque calibration in everything we do, including discussions on force calibration procedures

This includes setting expectations and challenging the "just calibrate it" mentality by educating our customers on what matters and what may cause significant errors.

We focus on reducing these errors and making our products simple and user-friendly.

This means your instruments will pass calibration more often and produce more precise measurements, giving you the confidence to focus on your business.

Companies around the globe rely on Morehouse for accuracy and speed.

Our measurement uncertainties are 10-50 times lower than the competition, providing you with more accuracy and precision in force measurement.

We turn around your equipment in 7-10 business days so you can return to work quickly and save money.

When you choose Morehouse, you're not just paying for a calibration service or a load cell.

You're investing in peace of mind, knowing your equipment is calibrated accurately and on time.

Through Great People, Great Leaders, and Great Equipment, we empower organizations to make Better Measurements that enhance quality, reduce risk, and drive innovation.

With over a century of experience, we're committed to raising industry standards, fostering collaboration, and delivering exceptional calibration solutions that build a safer, more accurate future.

Contact Morehouse at info@mhforce.com to learn more about our calibration services and load cell products.

Email us if you ever want to chat or have questions about a blog.

We love talking about this stuff. We have many more topics other than expressing SI units!

Our YouTube channel has videos on various force and torque calibration topics here.