Crane scales and dynamometers are measuring devices that weigh suspended loads. Although they may look similar, each has its use, and they aren’t always interchangeable. Knowing the differences between a crane scale and a dynamometer will ensure you use the correct scale for the job.

Dynamometers
A dynamometer measures the tension force between two points in a straight line. Basic models use a spring, while modern models use load cells and digital indicators. A dynamometer typically has a shackle on either end and can come with various handles, grips and hooks. It’s also smaller, lighter and more compact than a crane scale.

You can use dynamometers horizontally or vertically, which gives them an advantage over crane scales, which can only be used vertically. Therefore, dynamometers are often used to measure tension on wires and cables. For example, elevator service companies use dynamometers to test elevator safety.

Crane scales
A crane scale is a specialized dynamometer designed to weigh hanging loads as small as supermarket vegetables or as large as shipyard containers. Crane scales weigh heavy loads between 100 kilograms and 225 tonnes with incredible accuracy. However, their design means they can’t be utilized for any other application than weighing suspended loads.

Crane scales increase efficiency and safety at job sites. Outfitted with rugged steel shackles and an onboard indicator, a crane scale allows you to immediately weigh large, awkward objects without needing forklifts and floor scales. You can attach the scale to your crane and leave it without affecting its performance. Manufacturers also make crane scales with rugged shells to protect the inner mechanisms from the harsh environments on industrial job sites.

Things to consider
When purchasing a dynamometer or crane scale, consider the following features:
Maximum weight capacity
Readability and accuracy
Digital or analogue display
Wireless remote readout
Protection from the environment
Certification

Finally, talk to an expert about the best scale for your application and how to use it.

Crane weight scale and dynamometer sales in Alberta
At Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd., we have various crane weight scale options to suit any application. Our scales are durable, and Measurement Canada accredits us to declare scales legal for trade. Our technicians provide fast, professional repairs to minimize downtime if your commercial or industrial scale breaks down. Contact us today to learn more about our crane and hanging scales.

Scales do more than weigh an object. Retail computing scales like the Kilotech KRS-3000 price computing scale also collect and store data so you can easily track sales, monitor inventory, and access records. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for connecting your scale to your computer, so here’s an overview of standard methods.

RS-232

A cable compatible with an RS-232 port is one of the most common ways to connect a scale with a computer. The cable, with nine pins on one end and nine holes on the other, is secured with two screws on either side of the connector. However, this method is outdated and is being replaced by modes that move data more quickly. Your computer may not have the correct port to connect this way.

USB

Computer manufacturers are replacing RS-232 ports with USB ports, which transfer data more quickly and are easier to use. USB cables are inexpensive and readily available. Using a USB cable allows you to see the scale indicator on your computer screen and control its functions. You can also extract the scale’s data, download it to your computer and analyze it using various software.

Computers can monitor and control several scales at once. However, most PCs are equipped with just two USB ports. If you want to connect with more than two scales, you’ll need a USB hub.

Flash drive

If your computer is too far from your scale to connect it with a cable, you can always transfer data using a USB flash drive or thumb drive. Insert the USB port into your scale, collect and save your data, then remove the drive and insert it into the USB port in your computer to upload the information.

Ethernet

Ethernet, or LAN, is a wired local network of devices, including computers, printers and scales. The cables look like larger versions of phone cables and snap into place. The cables run to a central hub, allowing all the devices connected to the hub to communicate with each other.

Wireless network

Wireless technology has exploded in recent years, replacing cables and drives. Scales equipped with Bluetooth wireless technology require only Wi-Fi to connect with a computer. This method means your units don’t have to be in the same room to connect. In fact, you can connect with your scale from anywhere in the world at any time.

Digital computing scale sales in Alberta

At Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd. in Calgary, we offer retail computing scales with various features to help streamline your operations. We are accredited by Measurement Canada, and we can certify devices as legal for trade. Contact us today to request a quote.

Truck scales, also known as weighbridges, provide cargo weight readings by comparing the axle and gross weight of the empty truck against that of the loaded truck. These measures are essential to ensure safety, keep the trucks in good condition, and comply with transportation infrastructure regulations. To help you decide on a truck scale for your operation, here are four features to consider.

1. Permanent versus portable. If you wish to install a permanent truck scale, you’ll need to allow space for trucks to approach the weighing platform. You must also provide enough additional real estate to enable trucks to manoeuvre. Where space doesn’t allow permanent installation, portable truck scales provide an efficient alternative. Versatility is among the portable truck scale’s many advantages. You can use multiple scales simultaneously to deliver a full truck weight reading.

2. Platform mounting.

If you choose a permanent truck scale, you can select either surface-mounted or pit-mounted models. The pit-mounted version is installed by placing the weighing platform over a pit to sit flush with the ground. The surface-mounted scale requires less labour to install, but you’ll need to provide ramp access. When planning to install a truck scale platform, be sure to check with your local authorities to find out what permits you’ll need.

3. Platform material.

Your truck scale platform may be constructed of steel or concrete. The steel platform typically costs less and allows for faster installation. Because it’s lighter in weight, you can move it more easily. However, the steel surface will become slippery in wet conditions and can corrode over time. Concrete is also subject to deterioration with age and weather, but it tends to be more durable under high-traffic conditions.

4. Platform size.

When deciding on platform size, consider both your current capacity needs and any future vehicles you may need to weigh. Platform widths are typically three to five metres, but it’s possible to get wider ones. The length can be as short as six metres or as long as 60 metres.

Industrial scales in Calgary, Alberta

For your truck weighing needs, talk to the team at Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd. We offer a wide selection of portable and permanent truck scales in Calgary and are available to serve clients throughout Alberta. We have decades of experience in the industry and are accredited by Measurement Canada to provide authoritative scale inspection and certification. Contact us to request a free quote.

Scales with high readability are more accurate than scales with low readability and higher capacity, right? Wrong. That’s because readability and accuracy aren’t the same things. A scale with high readability may still be inaccurate, and you need to know why to avoid bad measurements. Here are the differences between readability and accuracy.

What’s scale readability?

Scale readability is the smallest increment the displayed weight can change as weight is added to or removed from the scale, usually defined as the number of zeroes past the decimal point. For example, a precision balance may have a readability of 0.01 milligrams, whereas a high-capacity platform scale may have a readability of 50.0 grams. Smaller readability typically means a higher degree of accuracy, but only sometimes.

Repeatability and maximum uncertainty tolerance

Besides readability, you also need to consider repeatability and maximum uncertainty tolerance.

• Repeatability is the ability of a scale or balance to repeat the same measurement for a given load under the same conditions. The value is the standard deviation of more than 10 multiple tests and is denoted as Rstd.

• Maximum uncertainty tolerance is your acceptable level of uncertainty: the lower your uncertainty tolerance, the more accurate your scale needs to be. If your uncertainty tolerance is 0.1 per cent, you need more accuracy than if your tolerance is one per cent.

Calculating your scale’s minimum weight

There’s a simple calculation that’ll tell you if the scale you want to use is accurate enough for your application:

2 x Rstd (repeatability) / T (tolerance) = W (minimum weight)

So, let’s say you want to measure something about 100 milligrams, the balance’s repeatability is 0.01 and your maximum uncertainty tolerance is 0.1 per cent. Your equation would look like this:

2 x 0.01 / 0.001 = 20 mg

The calculation shows that the scale can weigh as little as 20 milligrams and stay within your uncertainty tolerance, which means the scale is accurate enough for your needs. However, the scale wouldn’t be accurate enough to weigh something that’s only 10 milligrams with the same uncertainty tolerance.

Scale calibration

Using repeatability and uncertainty tolerance can help you avoid inaccurate results, even though your scale may have a high readability.

Furthermore, having your scales calibrated and maintained by a professional scale technician will ensure your scales are delivering accurate results.

Scale calibration and certification in Red Deer, Calgary and Swift Current

At Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd., we provide scale calibration, certification and maintenance services to ensure maximum accuracy for your business. Measurement Canada accredits our technicians as authorized scale inspectors, so all our work is legal for trade. Contact us today to schedule maintenance work for your scales.