Floor Scale Basics

Beginners Basics

As you start searching for the right floor scale system, there are a few things you may want to consider before deciding on a floor scale to buy. Some of the things that you may want to consider is whether the scale you want will be legal for trade or not. What is the area you will weigh look like, and does the size of the scale suit the area the scale will be installed in? This post will break down the basics of floor scale ownership and help guide you towards purchasing a quality scale that will fit your weighing needs.

The basic floor scale consists of a scale platform which usually has a tread plate on the surface along with four electronic load cells (shear beam) underneath the deck. The load cells underneath the deck are then connected to a J box or junction box inside. The junction box allows each load cell to adjust each load cell under the platform to ensure that they all record the same weight. From the j-box is a cable that  connects to the scale indicator. The majority of floor scales will most likely be painted steel. There are stainless steel variants for floor scales, but those are usually used in washdown environments and tend to have a higher price tag. Scale calibration on a floor scale is the same principle, just with different capacities depending on the weighing applications.

WHERE TO START?

Understanding where to start when searching for a floor scale can be an overwhelming ordeal, it can be a bit simpler if you know where to start. The fact is that there are a lot of factors you should consider when choosing what type of scale to buy. Do you want scale accessories? Will your environment have a remote display or scoreboard? These are questions you would want to consider when pricing your floor scale. The easiest way to determine this is to evaluate what you are using the scale for. This means that you should consider the environment the scale will be in. Will the scale be in a factory where there will be a lot of dust and debris floating around? Are you wanting analog or digital? Will you be weighing heavy materials? These questions are what need to be asked to help guide you toward the best suitable floor scale for your operation.

WHY GO FLOOR?

Specific scenarios call for specific tools, and when it comes to scales, you want the right scale for the job. Floor scales are a great choice for environments that require you to weigh large, heavy and bulky items. The reasoning for this is because the platform of a floor scale is quite literally on the floor, thus making weighing large and heavy items a lot easier. In environments like industrial factories, manufacturers and scrap yards will most likely have a floor scale, due to the heavy items being weighed. Floor scales are able to be installed on a flat or level surface or  it can be installed in a “pit” style, where the scale will sit in the ground a bit. If your operation requires a scale that can handle higher weight and can stand up to the hazards of the environment, then you will want to go with a floor scale.

DETERMINING THE RIGHT SCALE

Knowing what you are generally going to weigh can help you determine the size and shape of the scale you want. It is one thing to weigh rectangular boxes all day, but often enough you will weigh different sized and shaped items, so having a platform size large enough to accurately weigh any of the items you receive. 

The key to ensuring you have an accurate scale is making sure that the weight capacity has a good enough range, and that the scale is positioned in a way that it won’t feel vibrations or any other hazards that could cause you to have an inaccurate measurement. The first step you will want to do is figure out what the typical sizes and shapes of the items you will be weighing, so it can help you decide what scale size will be needed.

Keep in mind that certain types of floor scales will be better suited for certain environments. Usually equipped with a steel deck for heavy duty. Scale manufacturers will usually have different features for different scale models. A good example of this is when you have a floor scale in an environment that is considered a washdown environment. This means that the environment in which the scale is located is subjected to being sprayed or “washed” down by a power washer. The components on a washdown floor scale will Understanding this will help you to avoid purchasing the incorrect scale.

CONCLUSION

The best floor scale for you should be reliable and accurate, providing increased uptime and greater productivity. The amount of industries that legal for trade bench scales are used far exceeds what is listed in this article. The floor scale is a very versatile scale and due to its versatility they are able to service multiple industries and provide accurate weight measurements. Keep in mind that these tips should help increase the lifespan of your scale. At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale related. Be sure to check out our truck scale articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership. Also, take a look at our“Common Problems With Bench Scales'', which can help give insight to what issues could arise while owning a bench scale.

How Much Does A Turn-Key Truck Scale Project Cost?

Cost Of A Turn-Key Truck Scale Project

The installation of a new truck scale involves many different moving parts and pieces. Choosing the right scale and features along with project costs and timelines can become a bit overwhelming. Your scale company will have many questions which can affect the cost of your project. The fact remains that everyone wants to know the answer to a complex question – What does a turn-key truck scale installation cost? In this article, we will lay out what you can expect to be included in your turn-key project and how much you can expect to spend for different features.

Truck Scale Installation Labor & Calibration:

The first thing included on your quote would be a line for labor – installation and calibration. This typically runs between $4,000 and $7,500. If you have a new installation on a new foundation, the cost will be less. If you have a truck scale that you are replacing, the cost is usually a little higher due to the extra trips to your site and preparations made for the installation of your new scale. Installation and calibration will include all parts of your scale. The install team will also make sure that auxiliary devices are connected to include indicators, ticket printers, computer programs, kiosks, outside displays, and intercom systems. Conduit is typically installed by the contractors who you choose to build the scale house or wherever the scale operator will be located. Along with calibration, a “Placed into Service” form that the scale company fills out is sent to your state’s weights and measures office.  This ensures you are able to use your scale in a legal for trade application. 

Crane Cost

Cranes are often used to remove old scales and set new scales into place. Crane costs typically range from $2,500 to $3,500. If you are removing an old scale, the cost of freight to remove the old scale off site to a scrap yard is included in this cost, particularly if it is a steel deck scale.

Concrete Foundation Cost

Concrete and foundation work is a big part of your new scale cost. Most scale companies provide an experienced concrete contractor to perform the site preparations. Once the site is ready, the contractor will form and pour the ramps, approaches, and foundation. For more information on these items, reference the article in our Learning Hub entitled “What Are the Truck Scale Foundation Types” Soil samples and other factors can determine the type of foundation that you need. A typical above-ground scale foundation with ramps and approaches will typically cost $30,000. Ask your service provider how to pick the right foundation. If you have an existing foundation, scales can be customized and built to fit so that no concrete work is needed! This could save you thousands so make sure you discuss this with your scale company.

Truck Scale Cost

Truck scales come in different shapes, sizes, and materials. To understand more about truck scale costs, reference our article in our Learning Hub entitled “How Much Do Truck Scales Cost” As a reference point, a truck scale will typically range from $45,000 for a basic analog truck scale to $80,000 for a high traffic, heavy-capacity scale. Your truck scale cost will include all parts and hardware needed to make your truck scale perform correctly for many years. The options are endless so spend some time in our Learning Hub and get to know how truck scales will help your operation before selecting which scale you buy.

Freight Cost

The final piece of your cost is freight. Freight can range from $2,500 to $4,500 based on your distance from the manufacturer and your local permitting laws. All truck scales are delivered on a flatbed 18-wheeler that is typically oversized load overweight.

Total Cost Turn-key Truck Scale Project

So now the big question – What is the bottom line?

For a new truck scale installation, you can expect to see a turn-key project cost around $100,000 - $115,000. There are factors that you can keep this down for you which your scale company can help explain. If you are replacing an existing truck scale with no concrete work required, your cost will be around $80,000. Don’t let the number scare you! Buying a truck scale from a reputable manufacturer can give you a truck scale that will last for 25+ years.

Also check out our article “Truck Scale Installation: What’s Involved” for more details on what to expect. Also look into our articls Guide To Truck Scale Warranties

 Closing Words

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale related. Be sure to check out our legal for trade truck scale system articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. We also have articles on scale accessories, common problems to prolong your scales lifespan, weighing applications as well as what scale indicator works best with your junction box. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership.

How Much Do Livestock Scales Cost?

Understanding Livestock Scales

Livestock scale systems are a very important part of our food production process. There are many types of livestock scales to consider and they vary based on the application requirements. When considering the purchase of livestock scales, accuracy is paramount and can potentially cost you a lot in lost profits over time. Scale manufacturers try to create scales that can handle the requirements of farming. Weight is an important factor in food production. Owning a livestock scale can be a large undertaking, and there are a lot of important factors that need to be considered before you go along with a purchase. Depending on the type of scale, size and components, a livestock scale can cost anywhere from $2,000 to over $40,000 depending on the aforementioned factors. This article will go over the things to consider while searching for your next livestock scale as well as a cost breakdown of what you can expect when purchasing a livestock scale.

Note: This article will only focus on legal for trade livestock scales. We will not have anything non legal for trade in this article. 

TYPES OF LIVESTOCK SCALES

Mobile Livestock ScalesMobile animal scales (MAS) are designed to be transported to the location of the animals to be weighed. The scales are designed with durability in mind. These scales will also be equipped with steel pens suspended on load cells.There is also a cage that is installed to help keep the animals safe and locked in during transport. This cage can be locked down to the frame while transporting the animals. The reasoning for this design is because it prevents cage movement and load cell damage during transport. The mobile livestock scale is a good choice if you have to actually go to the animals yourself. 

Portable Livestock ScalesPortable Animal Scales (PAS) are designed to be transported to various weighing sites. The majority of portable livestock scales are suitable to be used in harsh and unpredictable conditions of multiple site weighing. They can have a deck and a pen side for a smoother loading and unloading process for the animals.

Stationary Livestock ScalesStationary Animal scales (SAS) are designed to be set up at one location, to which the animals can be guided to the scale to be weighed. One thing to note about stationary livestock scales is that they're available in a myriad of sizes to hold the amount of livestock you need to be weighed.  The cool thing about stationary scales is that they combine the accuracy of fully electronic weighing technology coupled with steel weighbridge designs that are typically found in truck scales.

WHAT INFLUENCES THE PRICE?

Livestock scale pricing has a myriad of factors that influence the overall cost of owning the scale. You have to ask yourself several questions. What are you using the scale for? The weighing applications involved also will affect the price. Do you need a single animal livestock scale or multiple animals? Is the scale going to be stationary, portable or mobile? These are just some of the things that will influence the price of your scale. Below is a breakdown of what goes into the pricing when you are optioning out your scale. 

• Scale Size: The size of the scale will be the biggest contributing factor to the price. You have to look at if you want a single animal scale or if you want a scale that can weigh multiple livestock at once. The size of the scale will need to be known before you can move further with the other options. Single animal scales tend to have the steel deck dimensions of 3’x8’ and 4’x8, while multiple animal scales will have dimensions of 13-19 feet with a width of 9 feet. There is no “right'' size when picking out a livestock scale, just the right size for you. So depending on what size you want will determine the cost you will be looking to spend. The cost for an SAS with dimensions of 3x8 can cost you anywhere from $6,000 to over $11,000. For a MAS with dimensions 13x9 can cost you anywhere from $16,000 up to well over $30,000. Keep in mind that these are for stationary livestock scales. The cost for portable and mobile scales will vary compared to stationary scales due to the other components that are specific to those scales. 

• Scale Components:Optioning your scale is where you will start to get the bulk of your costs. So it is good to think about what is important to you when looking for a scale. A typical livestock scale will be composed of a deck plate,electronic load cells (or analog), scoreboards, remote displays, junction boxes, pen sides as well as kick plates and a stainless steel scale indicator. A lot of these components will have multiple options with multiple features, thus affecting the price for each component. Scale accessories also influence the price as well.

• Load Cells:When choosing a load cell for your scale, you have to choose from analog or a digital load cell. An analog load cell will usually be the most cost effective between the two based on the build of the load cell, which is a lever system. Ensuring proper scale calibration for your loa cells will increase the lifespan of the scale. Going digital will usually have a more precise and faster reading compared to an analog load cell, but is also a bit more expensive as well. 

• Indicator:The indicator on a scale is what you use to get the weight of the animals. The indicator offers a  readout of the animal's weight. Depending on which indicator you decide to go with will determine what features you will have. There are indicators designed for farming and ranching, and are programmed for particular animal weighing requirements. 

PORTABLE OR PERMANENT?

Deciding if you need a permanent or portable scale simply depends on your layout and how you want to go about getting the animals weighed. If your livestock is located at different sections on your ranch, then you will want something that is portable to save time and effort when getting the animals weighed. The portable scale is convenient because there is not a lot of setup time needed. You simply set up the scale in the area where the animals are located. 

If you are looking to weigh livestock in the same location that they will be processed, then you will most likely opt for a permanent installation, in which load bars are placed under your squeeze chute and the scale is bolted to a concrete slab.

Determining if you will go permanent or portable will depend on your layout, and your processing method. These factors will be unique to each person. 

CONCLUSION

When it comes down to it, a farmer will need a good quality livestock scale to ensure that they are getting accurate results. Accurate readings will equal better profit all around. Regardless of whether you have a small or large-scale livestock farm, the importance of accurate weight can be directly tied to your business and how profitable it is. Pricing a scale can be a broad undertaking, but it depends on whether you want single, multiple, stationary or portable. Look to spend anywhere from $7,000 to $40,000 depending on your setup and options selected.

If you are looking to get a quote on our livestock scales, then head on over to our site and our team can help guide you through the process of ordering a livestock scale. At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale related. Be sure to check out our truck scale articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership. Also, take a look at our“Common Problems With Bench Scales'', which can help give insight to what issues could arise while owning a bench scale.

The Guide to Load Testing

Importance of Load Testing.

Understanding the limitations of your industrial equipment is essential in knowing what you can and cannot do at your worksite. This article will go over the aspects of industrial load testing and how to properly go about getting a load test done. 

What is a load test?

A load test is a testing process in which the performance of industrial equipment (for example cranes) is tested under a specific expected load. It determines how the equipment behaves while being under an extremely heavy load. Essentially load testing is putting the equipment up against real world work loads. The goal of Load Testing is to check performance under a specific load, thus preventing potential overloading and also allows the operator to adjust specs wherever needed.

 

How is a load test performed? 

A load test is performed to verify that a specific crane will safely perform all of its functions while supporting a test load whose weight is at least equal to the equipment’s rated capacity. Since load tests confirm the ability of the crane to safely operate, they must be completed whenever this overhead lifting equipment is newly installed, altered, repaired, or modified before being placed into service. Existing crane systems should be load tested once every four years.

The test load used must be at least 100% of the equipment’s rated capacity unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer. The weight itself should be certified prior to testing. Load tests should be dynamic, that is they confirm that the overhead crane and hoist function safely and properly as they move to lift and lower the test load. All results should be kept on file for the life of the equipment.

Workflow of a load test.

Understanding the workflow of a load test will help you get a good idea as to what to expect when you need to have a load test completed. As part of the load test process, both a pre-operational inspection and a periodic inspection should be conducted:

• Pre-operational check: This is where a service technician will assess the equipment to identify any deficiencies or damage that may impact either the safe operation of the crane. Similar to a visual inspection when calibrating a truck scale. Key areas for evaluation include confirming that the hook and latch are not damaged and work properly. Ensure that the wire rope is not broken, or improperly wound. Check that the load chain is not worn, stretched, or twisted.

• Periodic inspection: This inspection should be performed after the load test is complete. Whoever is performing the inspection is evaluating the equipment in great detail. It includes a comprehensive examination of structural and mechanical components. Reviewed are all girders, end trucks, foot walks, handrails, trolley frames, and cabs. Further, inspection for wear, cracks, or other damage is performed on brakes, shafts, axles, wheels, couplings, sheaves and drums, transmission components, runway structures, and below-the-hook devices. The inspector examines electrical components, indicators, gauges, connection points, the trolley and runway rail, bumpers and end stops, covers and guards, and all self-contained electric, hydraulic or gasoline powered generating units.\

Load test standards. 

When performing a load test, one simply cannot attach a random number of weights to a crane and declare that safe. There are specific standards that must be followed when performing a load test. These specifications will lay out all that is required to ensure a safe load test and a passing one as well. Because they are so critical to the safe operation of overhead cranes and hoists, there are several standards and specifications that detail load test requirements. Below is the outline of standards according to different ruling bodies:

• The Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s standard OSHA 1910.179(b)(3) and OSHA 1910.179(k)(2): Modified or rerated cranes shall be load tested. Test loads shall not be more than 125% of the rated load unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer. The test reports shall be placed on file where readily available to appointed personnel.

• The American Society of Mechanical Engineers’ standards ASME B30.2: Overhead and Gantry Cranes, ASME B30.16: Overhead Underhung and Stationary Hoists, and ASME B30.17: Cranes and Monorails with Underhung Trolley or Bridge: New, reinstalled, altered, repaired and modified cranes and hoists should be load tested prior to initial use with a test load equal to 100% to 125% of rated load and to include all design functions (lift, lower, traverse length of bridge, traverse length of runway).

• The Crane Manufacturers Association of America standard CMAA Specification 78, section 4.7: Cites the load test requirements of OSHA 1910.179 and states a load test should be performed at a minimum of once every four years at 100% load with a pre-test and post-test inspection per periodic inspection guidelines, and there must be a written report of the load test and inspection results maintained on file for the life of the equipment.

CLOSING WORDS

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale systems related, including products from the top scale manufacturers. Be sure to check out our truck scale articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership. Also, take a look at our“Common Problems With Bench Scales'', to help prolong the lifespan on your scale.

Tips for Improving Scale Performance.

Truck scales are ubiquitous in the freight industry. Whether it’s at a railroad, on-site weigh station or general freight terminal, truck scales are an essential tool for shippers and truckers alike. These tools allow companies to accurately weigh trucks before they are allowed to enter certain facilities. In addition to providing a means for owners and carriers to accurately weigh their vehicles, truck scales also serve as an important source of data that can be used to improve performance. That being said, not every truck scale is created equal and in this article we will be discussing tips that can maximize your truck scale performance. 

---

Regular Testing

Testing your truck scale regularly is a good way to keep good insight into how your scale performs. A good way to implement this is to set up a maintenance and service schedule for your truck scale. Setting up a service schedule will help you to get ahead of any potential problems that could arise during operation. Essentially a service schedule gives great insight to the overall health of your scale and keeps your scale running optimally throughout the lifespan.

In order to maximize truck scale performance, it would be recommended to test your scale at least once every two months. Considering that the general rule of thumb is to have your truck scale calibrated every quarter (3 months). This testing should be thorough and well documented. A well detailed test will have your scale technician doing a thorough visual inspection of the scale, checking for any discrepancies and any visual issues with equipment. From there they will check the accuracy by using test weights on the scale.

This process can seem a bit tedious and time consuming, but if you are running an operation that has a significant amount of measurements per day, then this may be a procedure that you will want to implement. This will also help prevent future downtime, since the scale will be serviced more frequently.  If anything, this will give you a clear picture of your scale’s performance month to month, thus allowing you to make adjustments where necessary. 

 

Maintain accurate recordkeeping

Good record keeping is essential in order to keep information on your scale organized and up to date. This will also keep a steady stream of info on your scale. You will avoid gaps of service information. When the operator records the data from their truck scale, they need to be careful to make sure that the numbers are accurate.

There are a few methods that truck scale operators can use to keep their load records accurate. For example, some scales will have an “automated” feature that automatically documents the weight. If an operator  is using one of these scales, they can still manually enter the load documentation at the same time they are entering the weight. Depending on the indicator and other accessories that are connected to the scale will determine how much data it can hold.

It is also a good idea to have a backup of all your records as well. If your scale is automated then it most likely will have a setting to record all measurements. It is suggested to also back those documents up to a usb drive, cloud (drop box, google drive) or even an external hard drive. Good recordkeeping is similar to good housekeeping. This gives you an ever growing reference for your scale as well as adding peace of mind due to knowing when each service was performed. 

 

Involve your customers in maintenance programs

When trucking, it’s important to interact with your customers. Setting up a scale service program is a good way of building a relationship. This can be done at the gate or it can be done electronically. The point is that over time you will develop a relationship with the customers you provide maintenance for. Get into the habit of involving your customers in some of the processes to help them gain a good perspective as well as gain confidence in ownership. There are often times where there is very to litte interaction when it comes to service, but building a good relationship will help you and the scale owner get ahead of any potential problems as well as helping the owner better understand their scale.

 

Good Housekeeping

Weighbridge cleaning maintenance should take place as part of a daily or weekly routine depending on the type of site. The build-up of debris and water should be monitored and obstructions should be removed from beneath the scale to provide clearance between the weighbridge and the ground. Otherwise, your scale accuracy will suffer.

Pit weighbridges should be checked to make sure clearances are clean and the correct gap between the deck and pit wall are in place. ‘T’ section rubber can be used to help maintain gaps and should be replaced if worn or damaged. Regular end-middle-end tests with a loaded truck should be carried out to review the accuracy of the scale to see if there are any buildup issues. This basic cleaning and maintenance can be carried out by a site foreman or truck scale weighbridge operator. Also look into scale cleaning programs

 

Conclusion

As you can see, truck scales are a critical part of the freight industry. In order to maximize truck scale performance, it’s important to be proactive when it comes to maintaining accurate records and implementing preventative maintenance programs. Finally, remember that as a weighmaster, you also need to maintain trust with your customers. That being said, by implementing these five tips, you can ensure that you are maximizing truck scale performance.

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale systems related, including products from the top scale manufacturers. Be sure to check out our truck scale articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership. Also, take a look at our“Common Problems With Bench Scales'', to help prolong the lifespan on your scale.

Day in the life of an American Scale Service Coordinator

Coordinating The Day.

Within any company there will be different roles with different responsibilities. Just like any team, everyone has a role to play, and when it comes to ensuring that schedules are kept and that the orders are being completed fall on the shoulders of the company’s Service Coordinator.

Service Coordinators have a lot on their plate and have the responsibility of dispatching techs to multiple work sites to manage client maintenance schedules and repairs. Their job is to make sure that the business runs smoothly so that it can operate at peak performance every day. Service coordinators must ensure that technicians know where they are going and what exactly the job will be for the day. They also keep track of inventory so there are always scales and replacement parts are always in stock.

The service coordinator ensures that the scale technicians are provided with what they need, as well as being able to respond quickly in case there is a service emergency that needs a quick resolution. To truly understand how all of it works, you need to know how a service coordinator  spends their day, and what their responsibilities are. This blogpost will breakdown a typical day for the service coordinator at American Scale Company. 

Morning Check

The service coordinator at American Scale Company starts their day at 7:30 each day. First thing that is done is checking emails and messages. There is a high probability that there will be emails from clients requesting service as well as service technicians requesting parts or tools. 

The main thing is checking in and making sure they fulfill any requests awaiting them. The service coordinator will keep an open line of communication with the service technicians to oversee how they are performing their tasks, and ensure that they have all that they need to complete the job in a timely manner. Essentially the morning is where you get a good scope of what needs to be done.

Note: American Scale Company has 24/7 service, so there is a good chance that there were service orders made during the middle of the night. 

Plan and coordinate activities

Service Coordinators will typically use a variation of an Enterprise Resource Planner (ERP) to set up dispatching, scheduling, quotes and a myriad of other things. It is a good idea to look at an ERP like a command center for service coordinators and the company alike. They use the planning and coordination process to make sure that all activities run smoothly and also to help plan out what the day will look like. Depending on the size of the business, they will have a significant involvement in the scheduling of staff activities. They also usually have to coordinate shipments and other logistics with partners, clients and subcontractors. 

Throughout the day the American Scale service coordinator will answer incoming service requests either via phone call or email. The nature of a service request will vary greatly depending on the client’s needs. For example, there may be a service request where the client has a scale that is not weighing correctly. The inactive scale causes downtime, thus halting the process. The service coordinator then processes the request and coordinates with the available technicians to get the issue resolved in a timely manner. These are the types of ongoing responsibilities that the service coordinator has throughout the day. 

Consistency is Key

One of the main responsibilities as a service coordinator is to manage client service requests. When a client submits a service request, then that means time is of the essence and it is up to the service coordinator to dispatch a technician to their site to get the client back up and running. During the time that you’re working as a service coordinator, you’ll also be responsible for maintaining your clients’ existing service requests. This means that you’ll have to track the status of their current requests and their past communication with you. 

One way a service coordinator will do this at a scale company is by setting up a preventative maintenance (PM) schedule that will automatically dispatch service technicians to the appropriate clients. So for example there can be a client who needs a truck scale calibration done once per month. What in turn happens is that the service coordinator will set that up in the ERP system. 

Supporting Service Technicians 

Service technicians do their best to prepare for the day ahead, but there can still be surprises that will need a speedy solution. This is where the service coordinator’s quick thinking can help the technicians finish the job. A likely scenario would be when a service technician is at a job and it turns out that they need a different part that they don’t have on them. 

Having great communication is a critical skill for a service coordinator. Since they have to keep track of inventory, service orders, technicians as well as incoming inquiries from clients. Besides coordinating the day to day activities, the service coordinator also has a very important support role to the service technicians in the field. 

Close out tasks for the day

At the end of the work day the service coordinator will send out end of the day emails, communicate next day schedules with service technicians as well as any other end of the day procedures that need to be completed. Any end of the day tasks are closed out and ensure that all activities are accounted for. This includes checking that service orders have been completed, schedules are made for the following day, and note anything that needs to attention for the next day. 

Closing Words

Service Coordinators are responsible for ensuring that the services we offer are provided to our clients. They guide service technicians through scheduling, and communication, and provide extra support by providing important service and part information. They regularly meet with their team members to check that the tasks assigned to them are being completed. Ultimately the service coordinator is responsible for how services are completed. They have good communication skills, and can adapt to the ever changing nature of service requests. 

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale related. Be sure to check out our legal for trade truck scale system articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. We also have articles on scale accessories, common problems to prolong your scales lifespan, weighing applications as well as what scale indicator works best with your junction box. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership.

How Scales Benefit Agriculture

Scales are a valuable tool in the agriculture industry, providing accurate and reliable measurements of weight and mass that are essential for many agricultural processes. From weighing crops and livestock to measuring the flow rate of irrigation water or feed, scales play a critical role in ensuring the efficiency and productivity of agricultural operations.

The benefits that come with using scales in a farming operation help to lower overall cost, and help prevent shrinkage with scale accuracy. They can be used to measure the weight and composition of crops and livestock, as well as to ensure that products meet the required standards for quality and safety.

This article will go over the various benefits that scales bring to the agriculture industry, as well as show the type of scales used throughout an agriculture operation. Understanding how certain scales can help you on your farm will help to make better informed decisions in the future regarding your operation.

Benefiting the Farm

Accuracy: One of the key benefits of using scales in agriculture is their ability to provide precise and accurate measurements. This is essential for ensuring that crops and livestock are properly cared for and fed, as well as for accurately measuring the quantity of materials used in agricultural processes. Scales can also be used to monitor the weight and growth of animals, allowing farmers to identify and address any health or nutritional issues.

When looking at the effects of an inaccurate scale, they can directly affect the animals health and weight, as well as affecting your bottom line. This also helps a lot when monitoring the weight and growth of the animals. There is a trickle down effect that occurs with accurate and inaccurate weight alike.

Flexibility: Another benefit of scales in agriculture is their ability to improve efficiency and productivity. By providing accurate measurements, scales can help farmers optimize their use of resources, such as water, fertilizer, and feed, leading to better yields and higher profits. Scales can also be used to accurately measure the weight of crops and livestock for sale, ensuring that farmers receive fair prices for their products.

Scales for agricultural applications

There are many occasions where things need to be weighed on a farm. Although this is often just for verification purposes, special requirements are set on the weighing equipment.
For example, a robust construction and moisture resistance are important features.

Platform Scales: There are different types of farm weigh systems such as platform scales, these are built to withstand the wear and tear of weighing large, bulky items continually all day. The platform itself is large enough to accommodate cumbersome objects which makes it ideal for weighing things on a farm like livestock.

Farm platform scales are close to the ground, often with a diamond plate surface. This makes it easy for larger livestock like cows and pigs to walk on without much effort or alarm. Farm platform scales are multifunctional so their use is not simply limited to livestock; you can weigh things like grain, hay bales etc. However, if you wish to weigh any crops that still might be in wagons or carts, then you would require another type of scale.

Vehicle Scales: If you’re specializing in cash crops, then you’ll like need to invest in some type of vehicle scale in order to weigh harvest loads. Truck scales can be configured in a number of different ways so to determine which size would be best for your needs.

Portable scales are also helpful if you’re navigating a particularly cumbersome load, as they’re easier to maneuver without trying to load it into a barn or garage.

Closing Words

In conclusion, scales are an essential tool in the agriculture industry, providing accurate and reliable measurements that are critical for the efficient and productive operation of agricultural processes. Their ability to improve efficiency, enhance productivity, and ensure the quality and safety of agricultural products make them a valuable asset for farmers and other agricultural workers.

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale systems related, including products from the top scale manufacturers. Be sure to check out our truck scale articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership. Also, take a look at our “Common Problems With Bench Scales'', to help prolong the lifespan on your scale.

Floor Scale Maintenance Guide.

Floor scales are heavy-duty weighing instruments that are used to measure the weight of large objects or items in bulk. They are commonly found in industries such as agriculture, transportation, and manufacturing, logistics or where accurate and reliable weight measurements are critical.

To ensure that your floor scale is providing accurate measurements, it's important to regularly maintain and care for it. Neglecting to properly maintain your floor scale will result in inaccurate measurements, intermittent operation, and all out failure. This article will focus on how to properly care for your floor scale to keep it running for a long time to come.

Keeping your scale calibrated

One of the most important aspects of floor scale maintenance is regular calibration. Calibration is the process of adjusting a scale to ensure that it is providing accurate measurements within its specified tolerance. Most floor scales should be calibrated at regular intervals, typically every six months to a year. If you are unsure of how to calibrate your floor scale, consult the manual or contact the manufacturer for guidance. Some manufacturers will have different parameters when it comes to calibration.

When it comes to how often you should calibrate your scale, you first need to consider how often your scale is being used. For example if you are operating a floor scale that takes multiple measurements per day. It may be a good idea to have your scale calibrated every quarter or four times per year. As mentioned above, if you aren’t using your scale as often as aforementioned, then getting your scale calibrated twice per year should be sufficient.

Good Housekeeping

In addition to regular calibration, it's important to keep your floor scale clean. Dust, debris, and other contaminants can interfere with the accuracy of the scale, so it's important to regularly clean the platform and display. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the scale, and avoid using any harsh cleaners or abrasives. Some chemicals can actually be harmful to your scale. Consult the manual to see which cleaners are safe to use for your scale.

Keeping a clean floor scale is even more prevalent when you are working in an area that requires washing down of the scales. You usually find these sort of environments in food processing plants and meat packing plants. The reasoning is because with the handling of food, there is a good chance that bacteria can build if the scale is not washed down regularly. This in turn can contaminate the products being weighed, thus potentially affecting others as the products are shipped to their destinations.

A good way to ensure a clean floor scale is by having a daily, weekly and monthly cleaning and maintenance schedule. For example, if you have your scale set to be cleaned at the beginning and end of each work day, this can help minimize bigger cleaning tasks that would be done weekly or monthly.

Extreme Environments

Another important aspect of floor scale maintenance is protecting the scale from extreme temperatures. Extreme temperatures can affect the accuracy of a scale, so it's important to avoid exposing the scale to temperatures outside of its specified operating range. Be sure to store the scale in a cool, dry place when not in use.

If you are working in areas like a steel mill, or other places that have extreme high or low temperatures, then most likely you have a scale and indicator with an IP69 rating. The IP rating will ensure that your scale and indicator can handle extreme temperatures, as well as high powered washing.

Keeping a schedule

Finally, it's a good idea to regularly check your floor scale for errors or incorrect readings. Even with regular maintenance and proper use, scales can sometimes experience errors or provide incorrect readings. To help detect and troubleshoot these issues, it's a good idea to regularly check your floor scale for errors or incorrect readings.

Keeping a cleaning and maintenance schedule/log is the best way to accomplish this. A good cleaning schedule should have a checklist as well as certain tasks that should be completed in daily, weekly and monthly increments. Keeping a notebook or an online spreadsheet to keep track of when you perform cleaning and maintenance duties is an easy way to ensure that you don’t miss a cleaning or important maintenance.

Closing Words

In conclusion, regular maintenance is an important part of ensuring that your floor scale continues to provide accurate and reliable weight measurements. By performing regular calibration, cleaning, and checks, you can help to maximize the performance of your floor scale and ensure that it continues to provide accurate data.

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale systems related, including products from the top scale manufacturers. Be sure to check out our truck scale articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership. Also, take a look at our “Common Problems With Bench Scales'', to help prolong the lifespan on your scale.

Truck Scale Maintenance. Why is it important.

Truck scales, also known as weighbridges, are an essential tool for the transportation industry. These large scales are used to weigh vehicles, typically trucks, to ensure compliance with weight regulations. An inaccurate truck scale can add to potentially bigger issues if it remains unattended.

Proper maintenance is integral for keeping your truck scale in good working order. Regular maintenance not only helps to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the scale, but it can also extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs. In general depending on the frequency that the truck scale is being used, will determine how many calibrations it will need per year.

Calibration

One of the most important aspects of truck scale maintenance is regular calibration. Truck scales should be calibrated at least once a year, or more frequently if they are used heavily. Calibration involves adjusting the scale to ensure that it is providing accurate weight measurements. This is typically done by a professional technician using specialized equipment.

Typically when a truck scale calibration is performed, there a several steps that need to be followed. First, the scale technician will perform a visual inspection of the entire scale, taking notes of any potential issues that could possibly arise. After the visual inspection, the scale technician will load a weight cart onto the scale and start checking the weight against what is on the board.

Additional Tasks

In addition to regular calibration, there are a few other key maintenance tasks that should be performed on a truck scale. These include cleaning the scale and its surrounding area, checking the condition of the load cells and other components, and tightening any loose bolts or other hardware.

It's also important to keep a maintenance log for your truck scale. This log should include details about when the scale was last calibrated, any repairs or maintenance that were performed, and any other relevant information. This can help you keep track of your scale's maintenance schedule and ensure that it is always in good working order.

Closing words

Overall, regular maintenance is essential for keeping your truck scale in good working order. By performing regular calibration and other maintenance tasks, you can ensure that your scale is providing accurate and reliable weight measurements, and prolong its lifespan.

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale systems related, including products from the top scale manufacturers. Be sure to check out our truck scale articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership. Also, take a look at our “Common Problems With Bench Scales'', to help prolong the lifespan on your scale.