Nonlinearity refers to the phenomenon that the voltage signal output by the load cell has a nonlinear relationship with the force. Ideally, the output voltage of the load cell should be proportional to the force, i.e. the higher the force, the higher the output voltage. However, in practice, due to various factors, there is often a nonlinear relationship between the output voltage and the force.
Nonlinearity error is an important measure of load cell performance and indicates the degree of deviation between the actual output value of the load cell and the ideal output value. In general, the nonlinearity error is expressed as a percentage, which is the difference between the actual output value and the ideal output value as a proportion of the ideal output value.
There are many reasons for non-linearity errors, such as manufacturing errors in load cells, wear and tear during use, incorrect installation, and so on. In order to reduce non-linearity errors, the load cell needs to be precisely calibrated and adjusted. During calibration, the load cell is loaded and measured using standard weights or other standards, and the difference between the actual output value and the ideal output value is compared. Based on the calibration results, the zero point and measuring range of the load cell can be adjusted to achieve the best measurement accuracy and stability.
In addition to non-linearity errors, load cells can also have other errors, such as hysteresis errors, repeatability errors, etc. These errors affect the measurement accuracy and reliability of the load cell, so regular inspection and maintenance are required during use.
In summary, the nonlinearity of a load cell refers to the nonlinear relationship between its output voltage and the force. In order to reduce non-linearity errors, it is necessary to accurately calibrate and adjust the load cell, and pay attention to the maintenance and upkeep during use.