A Pancake load cell, also known as a Compression Disk or Canister load cell, is characterized by its low profile, large diameter, and high capacity design.

• > Primary Use: These cells are exclusively designed for measuring pure compression forces in high-capacity, heavy-duty applications.
• > Key Feature: Their rugged construction and high stiffness allow them to handle massive static and dynamic loads while maintaining excellent linearity and stability.

Pancake load cells are the go-to choice when a high force needs to be measured precisely in a confined vertical space.

• > High-Capacity Weighing: Used in heavy industrial scales, multi-point tank weighing systems, and vessel weighing for extremely large silos.
• > Force Measurement: Essential in hydraulic press force measurement, deep foundation testing, pile load testing, and large-scale material testing machines.
• > Calibration: Often utilized as high-accuracy Master Load Cells or reference standards for the calibration of other, lower-capacity sensors and equipment.

Since Pancake load cells measure high forces, precise installation is paramount to prevent inaccurate readings or damage from non-axial loads.

• > Axial Loading: The compressive force must be applied perfectly through the central axis of the load cell (axially). Any side-loading or bending moments will introduce significant errors.
• > Load Buttons/Accessories: Always use specialized self-aligning load buttons or load cups provided or recommended by the manufacturer. These accessories are designed to center the applied force and compensate for minor initial misalignment between the two loading surfaces.
• > Flat Surfaces: Ensure the surfaces where the cell is mounted (both top and bottom) are perfectly flat, parallel, and rigid.

Due to their high capacity, the installation environment often involves heavy machinery and potential for impact. Protection is vital:

• > Mechanical Stops: Integrate mechanical overload stops into the surrounding structure. These physical barriers should be set to engage before the load reaches 150% of the load cell’s rated capacity, diverting excessive force away from the sensor.
• > Capacity Buffer: Select a capacity that is significantly higher than the maximum expected force (often 150% to 200% for dynamic applications) to provide an inherent safety margin against shock loads.
• > Impact Isolation: Where dynamic loading is unavoidable, consider mounting the load cell using elastomeric or damping materials to absorb sudden impacts, although this may affect overall system stiffness.

Given that high-capacity applications often occur in harsh industrial or outdoor environments, the IP rating is critical for longevity:

• > IP67 or Higher: For high-value, permanently installed Pancake cells, an IP67 (waterproof) or IP68 (hermetically sealed/submersible) rating is strongly recommended.
• > Benefit: Since these cells are often installed beneath large vessels or in calibration rigs that may be exposed to high humidity, dust, or potential washdowns, a hermetically sealed (welded) stainless steel construction ensures the strain gauge cavity remains protected from moisture and contaminants, guaranteeing long-term stable performance and minimizing drift.