A brief guide to bench scales

Bench scales are compact, affordable and versatile tools suitable for various commercial applications. However, there are many models and styles to choose from with different functions and features. Here’s some helpful information about bench scales and how to choose the best one for your business.

What’s a bench scale? Bench scales are weighing instruments designed to sit on a counter or table. They don’t take up much space but generally have a large weighing pan. Some models have the display and keypad built right in, whereas others have a separate display that can be mounted to a wall for easy viewing. Bench scales aren’t generally suitable for weighing fine powders and weighty objects because their range is typically between two and 150 kilograms. In fact, many bench scales are designed explicitly for check weighing and counting. However, most are multi-functional and can be used for various applications. Bench-scale applications Bench scales have a variety of industrial and commercial uses, including:

  • Weighing fruits and vegetables at grocery stores

  • Weighing meat and fish

  • Weighing small animals in veterinary clinics and zoos

  • Weighing goods at farmers markets

  • Weighing ingredients in commercial kitchens and restaurants

  • Weighing screws, nails and bolts at hardware stores

How to choose a bench scale When choosing a bench scale, check the scale’s maximum weight capacity. High-capacity scales are typically less precise than small-capacity units. Also, make sure the weighing plate is large enough to accommodate the items you’ll be weighing to prevent overhang, which can skew your readings. Moreover, determine the scale’s linearity or graduation. This number determines the scale’s accuracy. For example, a scale graduation of 0.5 grams is more accurate than a scale with a graduation of 1.0 gram. Additionally, stainless steel scales with sealed keypads are easy to use and safe to wash down. If your workplace is dusty or messy, look for a scale with a high ingress protection (IP) rating. Finally, if you’re selling any commercial products by weight, you must use a scale that’s certified legal for trade.

Bench-scale features

Bench scales are often equipped with various innovative features, including:

  • Power-saving mode

  • Piece counting

  • Dynamic weighing that filters out vibrations

  • Rechargeable batteries and AC adaptors

  • Quick toggle between metric and imperial units

Many scales also come with USB ports that allow you to connect your scale to a laptop or a printer to quickly and easily compile data, track inventory and print tickets, labels and invoices.

Precision bench scales in Calgary, Red Deer and Swift Current

At Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd., we offer a wide variety of bench scales designed to suit any need. Furthermore, Measurement Canada accredits us to certify scales as legal for trade. Contact us in Calgary to learn more about bench scales and our other products and services.

Scales FAQs: What is the difference between readability and accuracy?

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.

Different ways to check your scale is calibrated correctly

Accurate measurements improve customer confidence, reduce stress on your fleet and ensure your business complies with transportation and trade regulations. Here are some ways to ensure the scale you’re using is properly calibrated.

Why calibration is necessary

Calibration is necessary due to scale drift. Like any machine or piece of equipment, your scales will wear down with constant and frequent use. Scale drift is a term used to describe deviations in performance and inaccurate results based on temperature fluctuations, worn parts, humidity, dust and dirt. Even the force of gravity can cause instabilities that affect scales, depending on your location. Regular calibration of your scales can prevent scale drift and wrong readings.

Calibration preparation

Before calibrating a scale, take the following steps:

  • Test the scale at the exact location you wish to use it

  • Allow proper stabilization and let the scale’s electronics warm for at least 30 minutes before testing

  • Perform the tests on a level surface, or level the scale using the unit’s level bubble

Call a professional scale technician if you’re having problems with or are unsure about scale calibration.

How to know if your scale is calibrated

Check a scale every time you move it to a new location, after a repair or adjustment, after heavy use or if you notice a reading that seems off.

The simplest and most common method of checking your scale is to compare its readings against a known entity. Commercial scales often come with standard test weights, which can help you determine if your scale is accurate. Here’s how to use them:

  • Carefully clean the scale and remove and clean the pan. At the same time, check for defects like broken parts and ensure the batteries are charged and in place.

  • Zero the scale.

  • Place a standard test weight on the scale that’s 80 per cent of the scale’s capacity. For example, if you have a scale with a capacity of 10 kilograms, use an eight-kilogram test weight.

  • Check the reading of the scale. Using our example above, if the scale reads above or below eight kilograms, your scale requires an adjustment.

  • Adjust the scale. Scales have internal or external adjustment features. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions.

Having your scales professionally calibrated and maintained by a certified scale expert is the best way to keep your scales in check.

Scale calibration services in Alberta

At Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd., our certified weigh-scale technicians provide guaranteed scale calibration and maintenance services for commercial and industrial clients in Alberta. Measurement Canada authorizes us to certify your scales as legal for trade. Contact us today to book an appointment.

4 benefits of using scales on farms

The agricultural industry is varied and requires an array of specialized tools. Besides tractors, trucks, and hay bailers, farmers must use scales to maximize their profits, track production and follow the law. The truth is modern farms would be unable to operate without scales. Here are four benefits of using scales on farms.

1. Weigh livestock

Farmers weigh livestock like cows, horses, sheep and pigs to help keep them healthy. For example, livestock scales help farmers determine the amount of food and water each animal needs. Scales also help determine the correct dosage of medicine and supplements. Sharp or unexpected changes in weight can be a sign of sickness or disease.

Moreover, farmers use livestock scales to identify when animals are ready for breeding. Additionally, weighing calves can help determine when to wean them. Farmers buy and sell livestock by weight. Therefore, accurate measurements can significantly impact their profits.

2. Measure feed

Livestock farmers must weigh the feed they give their animals. For example, farmers use hanging scales to weigh hay bales and beam scales to weigh corn. Accurately weighing feed ensures animals get the nutrition they need and reduces waste, maximizing profits.

3. Assess crop yields

Grain farmers need to know how much their fields are producing during harvest. Therefore, they often use truck scales, hopper scales and floor scales to measure the produce coming off their fields. Farmers also use weight data to determine storage space and estimate potential revenue. Additionally, farmers require accurate weight measurements when transporting grain. This ensures they’re carrying loads within legal limits.

4. Measure fertilizer and seed

Farmers routinely buy seeds, fertilizers and pesticides to grow their crops. These products are bought and sold by weight. Therefore, accurate measurements ensure farmers get what they pay for. Moreover, using certified weight scales establishes trust along the supply chain. Lastly, farms of all sizes are legally required to use scales to buy and sell their goods. For example, if selling by weight, vegetable farmers are required by law to use certified scales to sell produce at farmers’ markets or to chefs and restaurant owners.

Livestock scale sales and service in Calgary

At Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd., we have a weight scale for every agricultural need. Whether you’re weighing cows, grain or fertilizer, we have a scale to help streamline your operations. Many of our models can even tolerate harsh Alberta weather. We’re also authorized to certify scales as legal for trade by Measurement Canada. To learn more, contact us at our Calgary location.

5 advantages of using crane scales

Crane scales make weighing large, bulky objects safe and easy. They can be used in a variety of commercial industries, including construction and shipping. Here’s an overview of how crane scales work and five advantages of using one in your business.

How crane scales work Crane scales are attached to a crane’s hook via a steel shackle. The scale consists of a load cell housed in die-cast aluminum housing and an industrial-strength hook that hangs from the bottom. Despite their small size, they have impressive weighing capacities. Benefits of using a crane scale Here are some of the benefits of using a crane scale.

  1. Save space. Crane scales are surprisingly small. For example, a single person can easily detach the scale and store it away. Their compact size makes them perfect for industrial job sites with limited storage space. In fact, floor and truck scales take up much more space than crane scales.

  2. Save time. A crane scale can be taken to the item you need to weigh. Consequently, this can save valuable time loading, unloading and moving objects. Using a crane scale also improves efficiency because you can weigh an object while moving it around the job site.

  3. Make weighing safer. Using crane scales to weigh large objects reduces the risk of injury and property damage. Additionally, crane scales have easy-to-read digital displays and remote controls, so users can take measurements from far away.

  4. Weigh heavy items. Crane scales can weigh large items that other scales can’t. For example, they can weigh loads between 50,000 and 200,000 kilograms — that’s the weight of a locomotive! In addition, crane scales are highly accurate. For instance, some models boast 0.1 percent accuracy.

Easily weigh cumbersome objects. Thanks to their unique design, crane scales can weigh just about anything from a rhinoceros to a backhoe. All you need is a secure place to attach the hook. You can even weigh an object off the back of a truck. If you need help choosing the right crane scale for your commercial business, the team at Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd. can help. Crane and hanging scale services in Calgary, Alberta At Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd., we carry a wide range of crane and hanging scales. Additionally, our scale certifications and inspection services are accredited by Measurement Canada. We also offer a variety of scale rentals for customers in Calgary and throughout Alberta. For more information or to request a free quote, contact us today.

What’s the difference between a platform scale and a floor scale?

Platform and floor scales are the most common in commercial and industrial businesses. While similar in many ways, platform and floor scales have critical differences to consider before you choose a new scale for your business. Here are some of their key features to help you determine what type of scale is best for you.

Floor scales

Floor scales are an asset for companies that need to weigh pallets, ingredients for manufacturing plants, loads for shipping and more. They’re best suited for weighing heavy loads and large objects, with a capacity of between 18,000 and 36,000 kilograms. They have a lower profile than other scales, which makes it easier to place items on the scale. Most models also come with ramps, making loading and unloading even more manageable.

The main advantages of floor scales include the following:

  • High-capacity weighing

  • Heavy-duty, highly durable construction ideal for manufacturing conditions

  • Low profile for ease of use

  • Versatility — floor scales can be combined with accessories such as cages for large animals or containers for cargo

Floor scales are popular for retailers, farms, zoos, shipyards, warehouses and factories. However, they’ll take up a lot of space on the factory floor. They can be as large as 2.5 by 3.5 metres.

Platform scales

Platform scales are perfect for warehouses and factories but can work in almost any industrial environment. However, their weighing capacity is lower than floor scales, and the platform sits much higher off the ground. They can weigh loads between 1,000 and 3,000 kilograms and can also weigh large, awkwardly shaped objects.

Platform scales provide fast, accurate measurements, increased productivity and fewer shipping or overload errors. They’re easy to use and allow your business to operate more efficiently. For example, a forklift driver can set a loaded pallet on the platform, make a quick measurement and then pick it up again.

Another benefit of platform scales is that they take up less space than a floor scale. Moreover, most models have wheels, so you can move them around the factory floor and stow them away when not in use. Platform scales are affordable, effective and convenient.

Floor scale and platform scale sales and service in Alberta

Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd. offers a wide range of durable but precise floor scales and platform scales for your commercial or industrial property. We also provide floor and platform scale rental services, an affordable alternative if you need a scale only a few times a year. Contact us today at our facility in Calgary, Alberta, to learn more about our inventory and services.