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.

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.

Pallet truck scales are manoeuvrable and efficient tools that are used to weigh and move cargo on pallets. These invaluable measuring tools are most often used in warehouses and at shipping docks. Here are six tips on how to get the most out of your pallet truck scale.

1. Use it on a stable, flat surface Always use your pallet truck scale on a flat, stable surface. Using it on uneven or soft terrain can skew the reading. You should also ensure there’s plenty of space to manoeuvre around the scale, so you don’t accidentally bump into it.

2. Use the zero and tare functions Before placing any weight on your pallet truck scale, make sure you zero it out. Using the zero function resets the scale and deletes any previous information to ensure your reading is as accurate as possible. Additionally, you can use the tare function to account for the weight of the pallet. To do so, simply weigh an empty pallet. The scale will record this weight and apply it to any subsequent measurements. Many pallet truck scales can store multiple tare weights at once.

3. Print and store data on the go Modern pallet truck scales often come with built-in printers or are compatible with remote printers, which allow you to print tickets or receipts on the go. This feature is useful for businesses that require hard copies of their transactions. Furthermore, many scales can interface with software applications to collect and store data.

4. Don’t overstack items Never place too many items on one pallet. Overstacking can cause large objects to topple over, resulting in severe injuries. Additionally, unstable loads can throw your readings.

5. Use the automatic switch-off function Pallet truck scales are battery-powered. Therefore, it’s important to conserve the battery to ensure your scale works when you need it. Fortunately, most scales come with an automatic switch-off feature that powers off the scale if you don’t take any measurements within a certain amount of time.

6. Store it properly Never leave your pallet truck scale under load. This can harm the load cells and permanently damage the unit. When you’re finished with your truck scale, remove any items, turn off the power and store it out of harm’s way. Follow these six tips to ensure your pallet truck scale continues to work for years to come.

Pallet jack scales in Calgary, Red Deer and Swift Current
At Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd., we carry a wide variety of cargo lift scales, material handling and forklift scales, including pallet trucks, lift trucks and bucket loader scales. Contact us today at our Calgary location to learn more about our products and services or request a free estimate.

Portable bench scales are ideal for fieldwork. However, they’re sensitive to inclement weather and uneven terrain. Therefore, you must prepare before venturing out into remote areas. Follow these six tips for using your scale in the field.

1. Check the forecast. Avoid using your scale in extreme temperatures, strong winds, harsh sunlight and high humidity. These factors can influence your readings. If possible, wait for a day with good weather. Moreover, move your scale as far away as you can from heavy machinery, busy highways and anything else that may cause vibrations, as this could skew your readings.

2. Prepare your equipment. Make sure to calibrate your scale before leaving the lab. Additionally, remember to bring calibration weights with you because changes in altitude or temperature could require onsite calibration.

Charge your scale’s batteries and ensure that any devices and accessories are in good working order. Furthermore, make sure your scale’s USB port is compatible with your laptop, tablet or portable printer. Just in case, bring a notebook and pencil to write down any important information.

3. Use a carrying case. If your scale didn’t come with one, invest in a carrying case. A solid, high-quality case will protect your scale if it’s dropped or bumped during transportation. In fact, shocks to your unit could result in costly repairs.

4. Use a draft shield. Most precision scales come with a transparent box that covers the weighing plate. This is called a draft shield and protects the weighing area. Even the slightest breeze can adversely affect your readings. Additionally, using a draft shield is crucial when weighing light, powdery substances such as pollen or soil.

5. Keep your scale clean. Working in the field means your scale will inevitably get dusty and dirty. Therefore, pack a few clothes or sponges to wipe down the weighing plate. Even a small amount of dust can impact your readings. Regularly cleaning your scale also prevents sample cross-contamination and rust formation.

6. Find a flat surface. Scales work best on solid, flat surfaces. Fortunately, most models come equipped with a built-in level and adjustable feet to ensure your scale is stable.

If you need advice on how to protect your scale while in the field, the experts at Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd. can help.

Bench and precision scales in Calgary, Red Deer and Swift Current At Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd., we understand the challenges of using scales in the field. Fortunately, we carry reliable bench and precision scales that work as hard as you do. We also provide scale rental services. Contact us today at our Calgary location to learn more about our products.

Hanging scales accurately weigh large and heavy loads by suspending them rather than placing them on a platform. This makes them extremely useful for a variety of applications. Additionally, hanging scales are easy to transport and store. Here are eight uses for industrial hanging scales.

Weighing fish. Fishing vessels use hanging scales to measure their nets and weigh their hauls. Accurate measurements ensure their catches don’t exceed regulated limits.

Weighing fruits and vegetables. Grocery stores use hanging scales to measure the weight of fruits and vegetables. In fact, most grocers provide small hanging scales in their stores so customers can weigh their produce.

Weighing livestock and other animals. Hanging scales are useful in the agricultural industry for weighing livestock. Accurately weighing animals helps monitor their growth and allows farmers and veterinarians to detect unexpected weight changes. Using a hanging scale to weigh animals is easier and safer than getting unruly animals onto a floor or platform scale. Zoos use hanging scales for the same reason.

Weighing livestock feed. Farmers use hanging scales to weigh hay bales and feed to ensure animals get the correct amount of food. This is essential for animals on strict diets.

Weighing steel and other metals. Most metal is bought and sold by weight. Consequently, steel manufacturers use hanging scales to weigh rolls of metal before and after they’re cut. You can also find hanging scales at many scrap metal recycling yards.

Weighing mail. Postal services use hanging scales to weigh bags of mail. Weighing mailbags allow postal workers to pack mail appropriately and ensure each bag isn’t too heavy to lift.

Weighing luggage and cargo. The airline industry uses hanging scales to accurately weigh luggage to ensure items adhere to each airline’s weight guidelines.

Weighing shipping cargo. Shipyards typically use a hanging scale called a crane scale to measure containers and other large items before loading them onto ships. Shipping companies charge by weight, so accurately measuring large loads determines fair prices.

If you need a hanging scale for your operation, Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd. is the place to go.

Hanging scale rental services in Calgary
At Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd., we understand the importance of investing in a precise weight scale, especially if you need to measure large, heavy loads. Fortunately, we have a wide variety of reliable hanging and crane scales for purchase or rent. We’re sure to have the right heavy-duty scale for your Alberta business. Contact us today at our Calgary location for a free quote.