Choosing the Best Industrial Weigh Scale for your Application

Many features factor into the purchase of a weigh scale. Maximum weight allowed, how long will it last, how often will it need to be cleaned and how can you clean it are just a few of the features to consider.

You will need to determine the following :

  • Capacity you will need
    • Take into account future business growth as well to maximize your usage of the scale.
      • Common weigh scale capacities are:
        a. 800 lbs.
        b. 1,000 lbs.
        c. 5,000 lbs.
        d. 10,000 lbs.
    • Larger scales are available for large objects like vehicles.  Weigh scale capacity for items like these may range from 20,000 lbs. to as high as 60,000 lbs.
  • Size and shape of the scale you require
    • Different sizes may be required for different items.  Special scales are also available for weighing heavy duty items like forklifts, cars, etc.
      a. Square sizes
      i.  3’ x 3’
      ii. 4’ x 4’
      b. Rectangular
      i.  4’ x 5’
      ii. 4’ x 6’
      c. Large Size
      i.  10’ x 10’
      ii. 10’ x 14’
  • Budget for maintenance and calibration
    • Brand new floor scales will be set by the manufacturer before shipping to read a true-zero weight.  Like any other scale, a weigh scale will need to have regular maintenance done on it.  Professional companies will come in to calibrate the existing weigh scale, so long-term maintenance and calibration costs will have to be factored into the choice of weigh scale.
  • Determine if you need a NTEP certified scale
    • Commercial transactions are required to be weighed by a NTEP scale (National Type Evaluation Program).  These types of scales are also known as a Legal for Trade Scale.  Many weigh scales that are sold today are NTEP certified scales.  Companies may offer scales that are not NTEP certified scales, so verifying the type of scale is necessary.
  • Type of digital weight indicator you require
    • Digital Weight Indicators can be made of plastic or stainless steel.  Making sure the indicator is easy to read is a vital part of a weigh scale.  Most standard indicators are available with an easy connection made to hook up to a printer.

Taking into account these factors should help you choose the correct weigh scale for your company’s application.  Adding a slip resistant surface to weigh scales can help to increase safety and longevity of the scale.  SLIPNOT Metal Safety Flooring provides slip resistant top plates for weigh scales, available in steel, stainless steel or aluminum substrates.  SLIPNOT stainless steel is approved for use by NSF International.  The coating will not chip off or flake off, therefore it is safe to use in food processing environments because it will not contaminate the machines or their end products.

The SLIPNOT surface provides a 100% slip resistant surface in all directions and provides a safe walking/working surface to anyone who comes into contact with the weigh scale.  The SLIPNOT surface can be applied to existing weigh scale top plates; new weigh scales can be purchased through Rice Lake Weighing Systems with the non-skid coating applied to the top plate.  By adding the SLIPNOT non-slip surface, you will be ensuring the durability and longevity of the weigh scale for years to come.

“Industrial Floor Scales: Find The Best Industrial Floor Scales & Weighing Scales“ http://www.industrialfloorscales.org/ January 16, 2012.

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