I am looking for some small load cells around 10m/m dia(prob a bit optimistic) from some kitchen scales or such ,, Has anyone bought these cheap from ebay ect and recovered some parts successfully ,, I am looking for a couple for a project iam working on ,,Have found a few scales for sale on fleabay but not sure if they all have the load cells in them
Just about any digital type scale should have the strain gauge(s) you are looking for. You also may find this video interesting and informative. While I have not hacked a scale or harvested parts it should be relatively easy to do. I have worked pretty extensively with strain gauges which is what I believe you are after. The strain gauge being the heart of the load cell.
I doubt you will find a button type load cell in a simple scale. I use a good deal of button, pancake and other load cells at work. Yeah, tell me about the cost. Especially when you get into names like Lebow/Honeywell.
Cheaper Chinese made load cells are starting to turn up. I don't know of any specifically but there must be some button versions out there. What exactly are you trying to make or get done?