Hygiene load cells for weighing

To meet the strict hygiene regulations required in production, HBM has recently introduced the PW25 and PW27 range of load cells, which have been designed for use in filling systems and packaging plants, in multi-head combination weighers and static scales.

Suitable for use in beverage, food, pharmaceutical and bio industries, the latest range of easy-to-clean load cells are hermetically encapsulated and housed in stainless steel, making them compatible with all cleaning agents and disinfectant agents, which are commonly used in the production process.

Featuring a clean and smooth cylindrical design that is non-absorbent and free from imperfection, such as grooves and gaps, to avoid gathering, the top surfaces of the new load cells are also inclined to prevent the collection of dust, product residue or water droplets. Furthermore, by replacing the usual specification stickers with laser etching, the possibility of contamination is less likely to occur.

The PW25 and PW27 from HBM are ingress protected to IP68, with IP69 as an option for added protection. Furthermore the hygienic PW27 load cell, which enables efficient and accurate weighing equipment to be used in fields where aseptic production is required, has been developed to meet the guidelines set out by the EHEDG (European Hygienic Engineering and Design Group).

These guidelines, set out by the EHEDG, reflect the need for all systems and components, such as weighing systems used in filling and packaging systems, of food processing equipment to comply with stringent hygiene standards.

The latest range of load cells from HBM can be easily connected to the PAD series of digital transducer electronics from HBM to accurately digitise signals of analogue load cells or force transducers, even under the harshest of conditions.

Developed to meet the demands placed on weighing components involved in dynamic filling and metering applications, the PAD series offers integrated measurement signal conditioning, including a selectable or automatic filter and two integrated digital I/O interfaces. Depending on the need, the PAD series from HBM can also be configured via RS485 or CANOpen interfaces, which enable analysis and remote access in networks.

Depending on individual requirements, variants are also available with a pre-wired sensor connection cable (optionally as an aseptic version), or a plug/plug variant, ensuring flexibility for load cells or force transducers. Housed in welded casing and hermetically encapsulated, the robust PAD series offers an IP rating of up to IP68/IP69K, making it suitable for a wide range of demanding applications.

The latest range of innovative load cells and the PAD series of digital transducers from HBM provide a hygienic solution for weighing systems, without compromising on accuracy and quality, which is an important factor in terms of minimising costs associated with maintenance and downtime issues.