S-Type Load Cell Buying Guide: Tension, Compression, Capacity and Mounts
Reviewed by MNM Scales technicians · Updated November 5, 2026 · Prices checked November 5, 2026
Short answer: an S-type load cell (S-beam) measures tension, compression or both for cranes, hoppers and test rigs. Match capacity to peak load, then choose alloy or stainless and the thread or eye-bolt hardware. In stock today: the Optima OP-312-10K (10,000 lb) at $288, the Zemic B3G-N10-10K stainless (10,000 lb, NTEP) at $247, the Zemic H3-N10-20K alloy (20,000 lb, NTEP) at $247, and the MNM Scales MS-1-100 tension cell (100 lb) at $129. Call (832) 290-3120.
This buying guide helps engineers and builders pick an S-type cell for a crane, hopper or rig. It is not a full taxonomy of every load-cell shape — for that overview see our load cell types guide — and it does not walk through resistance or shunt tests (see how to test a load cell only if you need that procedure). MNM Scales has sold, calibrated and repaired scales for over 30 years from Cypress, Texas.
When to choose an S-type load cell
Pick an S-beam when the load path is in-line tension, compression, or both (hanging scales, hoppers on rods, proof fixtures). Pancake or canister cells fit different mounting geometry; keep those for low-profile compression decks. For tension-focused mounts and hardware notes, see our tension load cell guide.
Capacity, material and mounts
- Capacity: size for the heaviest expected load plus shock. In-stock S-beams here span 100 lb tension cells to 20,000 lb dual-mode beams.
- Alloy vs stainless: alloy steel for dry industrial use; stainless for washdown and corrosive areas (Zemic B3G-N10 stainless example below).
- Threads and hardware: many S-beams use UNF threads (for example 3/4-16 on the Zemic N10 cells). Eye bolts and rod ends are not included unless the listing says so.
- Cable: plan length and connector to your indicator; spare cable work is covered in replace a scale cable when you need a harness swap.
S-type load cell models compared at live prices
| Model | Capacity | Material | Key features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optima OP-312-10K | 10,000 lb | Alloy S-beam | Tension and compression; rod-end / eye-bolt mounts sold separately | $288 |
| Zemic B3G-N10-10K | 10,000 lb | Stainless | NTEP S-beam; 3/4-16 UNF; 6 m shielded cable | $247 |
| Zemic H3-N10-20K | 20,000 lb | Alloy | NTEP S-beam; 3/4-16 UNF; 6 m shielded cable | $247 |
| MNM Scales MS-1-100 | 100 lb | Alloy tension | Compact tension cell; related MS-1 sizes 200–700 lb also stocked at $129 | $129 |
Browse load cells. More Zemic context: Zemic load cell guide. Mounts, indicators and junction boxes are not included unless the listing says so.
Wiring to an indicator
Match excitation, signal wires and shield to the indicator manual. Keep cable runs away from VFD noise when you can. After wiring, verify zero and a known load before you trust the system. Calibration of the finished scale is covered below and in load cell calibration.
Rules: NTEP for S-type load cells
In-house proof tests and process checks are not selling by weight. A finished scale used to sell by weight must be legal for trade. Among the cells in this table, the Zemic B3G-N10-10K and H3-N10-20K are NTEP-marked S-beams; call us before you place any cell into a trade system. Our NTEP guide explains certificates, and we handle legal-for-trade scale calibration in Texas.
Texas note: TDA does not require an NTEP certificate for every device, but the scale must meet NIST Handbook 44 and suit its use; some scales do need one, so we recommend NTEP models and can check yours. See TDA’s scales used in trade guidance (PDF) and our TDA scale certification guide, or call us or TDA to confirm your use.
Calibration and rental
- System calibration over 150 kg: our TDA-registered technicians calibrate in-house with a certificate at $495 or with a NIST-traceable certificate at $995.
- Other capacities: call for a quote.
- On-site service: $295 + $2 per mile per visit across the Houston area, plus calibration per scale; see on-site calibration and scale calibration Houston.
- Mail-in and rentals: use mail-in calibration and scale rental Houston while yours is in for service. For a short-job cell instead of ownership, see our load cell rental guide.
Not sure which S-type load cell fits? Tell us tension or compression, peak load, thread size, cable length and the indicator you will use. We will match a cell and can calibrate the finished system. Eye bolts, rod ends and indicators are not included unless the listing says so. Shop: 21249 FM 529 Rd, Cypress, TX 77433, visits by appointment.
Frequently asked questions
What is an S-type load cell used for?
S-beam cells measure tension, compression or both in cranes, hoppers, hanging scales and test rigs. Pick capacity for peak load, then alloy or stainless for the environment.
How do I choose capacity for an S-type load cell?
Size for the heaviest expected load with headroom for shock and overload. In-stock examples run from 100 lb tension cells to 20,000 lb S-beams.
Do I need stainless or alloy?
Stainless fits washdown and corrosive areas. Alloy steel fits dry industrial tension and compression jobs at a lower cost.
Can I sell by weight with an S-type load cell?
Only when the finished scale is legal for trade. Zemic B3G-N10 and H3-N10 models are NTEP-marked; call us before you build a trade system.
Do you calibrate systems built with S-type load cells?
Yes. For systems over 150 kg, in-house calibration with a certificate is $495 and NIST-traceable is $995. On-site service is $295 + $2 per mile. Call for other work.