Sartorius Quintix® OEM Series N/NC Load Cells (WZA224-N, WZA523-N, WZA1203-N, WZA1203-NC)

Overview

The Sartorius Quintix® OEM Series N/NC load cells represent a purpose-engineered family of high-precision weighing modules designed for seamless integration into pharmaceutical machinery, precision dispensing systems, automated assembly lines, and collaborative robotics platforms. Built upon Sartorius’ proprietary Monolithic SuperCell® sensor architecture—patented for ultra-low creep, exceptional long-term stability, and minimal temperature-induced drift—these OEM-grade transducers deliver metrological performance aligned with industrial automation requirements. Unlike conventional strain-gauge assemblies, the SuperCell® integrates the sensing element, compensation circuitry, and mechanical structure into a single monolithic ceramic-metal composite, eliminating micro-friction interfaces and thermal expansion mismatches. The N-series (e.g., WZA224-N) provides high-resolution static weighing with factory calibration traceable to national standards; the NC-series (e.g., WZA1203-NC) adds internal motorized calibration mass actuation, enabling fully autonomous recalibration without external weights or manual intervention—critical for GMP-compliant continuous manufacturing environments where process validation mandates documented calibration integrity.

Key Features

• Monolithic SuperCell® sensor technology ensuring <0.005% linearity error and <0.002% repeatability over full scale, validated per ISO 376:2011 for force transducer calibration
• Stainless steel hermetically sealed housing rated IP44—resistant to dust ingress and low-pressure water splashes during equipment washdown cycles
• Integrated bottom-loading hook mount for direct suspension of containers, syringes, or dosing nozzles—enabling tare-based net-weight measurement in dynamic dispensing applications
• NC variants feature built-in electromagnetic calibration actuators compliant with ASTM E898-22 for in-situ verification under operational conditions
• Low-profile mechanical design optimized for space-constrained integration (e.g., within robotic end-effectors or compact tablet press hoppers)
• Analog output (±10 V) and digital RS-232/RS-485 interfaces support real-time data streaming to PLCs, SCADA systems, or MES platforms

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

These load cells are engineered for non-contact or contact-based mass measurement of solid dosage forms (tablets, capsules), liquid volumes (via density-correlated weight), and semi-solid formulations (creams, ointments) in regulated manufacturing settings. All units comply with electromagnetic compatibility requirements per IEC 61326-1:2021 and meet mechanical safety standards under ISO 12100:2010. For pharmaceutical use, the NC-series supports audit-ready calibration logs with time-stamped events, fulfilling FDA 21 CFR Part 11 electronic record requirements when paired with validated host software. Traceability is maintained through Sartorius’ certified calibration certificates (ISO/IEC 17025 accredited), and stainless steel construction meets USP guidelines for analytical instrument qualification.

Software & Data Management

While the OEM modules operate autonomously as analog/digital transducers, they interface seamlessly with Sartorius’ Q-App™ SDK and LabX® OEM Integration Suite. This enables developers to embed configurable weighing logic—including dynamic averaging, gross/net/tare switching, limit checking, and statistical process control (SPC) triggers—directly into host machine firmware. Calibration data, including date/time stamps, operator ID, and deviation reports, are exportable in CSV or XML formats compatible with LIMS and ERP systems. Firmware updates are delivered via secure OTA protocols, ensuring ongoing alignment with evolving regulatory expectations such as Annex 11 and EU GMP Annex 15.

Applications

• High-speed tablet counting and blister-packing machines requiring sub-milligram resolution at 100+ units/sec throughput
• Robotic liquid dispensers for cell culture media preparation, where ±0.5 mg accuracy ensures consistent viability across bioreactor batches
• Automated powder filling systems for sterile injectables, where IP44-rated housings withstand cleanroom-compatible CIP/SIP cycles
• Continuous manufacturing lines implementing PAT (Process Analytical Technology) frameworks per ICH Q8(R2), using real-time weight feedback for feed-forward control loops
• Custom-built QC test benches for dissolution apparatus validation, where bottom-hook configuration eliminates platform vibration coupling

FAQ

What distinguishes the N-series from the NC-series?
The NC-series incorporates an internal motorized calibration mechanism that automatically deploys and retracts a certified reference mass—enabling unattended recalibration without halting production or requiring operator interaction.
Is the SuperCell® sensor susceptible to magnetic interference?
No—the monolithic ceramic-metal construction is inherently non-ferromagnetic and demonstrates immunity to fields up to 10 mT, verified per EN 61000-4-8 testing protocols.
Can these load cells be used in Class A/B cleanrooms?
Yes—stainless steel housing, IP44 rating, and absence of vent holes or gaskets allow safe deployment in ISO 5–7 environments when installed per manufacturer’s mounting torque specifications.
Does Sartorius provide OEM integration support beyond datasheets?
Yes—qualified customers receive access to application engineering consultations, mechanical mounting templates, electrical interface schematics, and pre-validated communication drivers for Siemens, Beckhoff, and Allen-Bradley PLC ecosystems.