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The 2023 Scale Calibration Guide.

Scale calibrations are an important part of the measurement process, whether it's in a laboratory, manufacturing setting, or even in your own home. Calibration ensures that the readings you get from your scale are accurate and reliable, which is essential for making informed decisions and ensuring quality control.

In this article, we'll explore what scale calibrations are, why they are important, and some of the methods used for calibrating different types of scales. For more articles about scales, calibration and other services, be sure to check out our Learning Hub.

What are scale calibrations?

Scale calibration is a process of verifying the accuracy of a weighing instrument by comparing its readings with a known standard. The standard weight is a reference point used to evaluate the accuracy of the scale. Calibration is done by adjusting the scale to match the standard weight. This process ensures that the scale's measurements are accurate, consistent, and reliable.

Scale calibration involves comparing the readings from a measuring instrument to a known standard. If the readings do not match the standard, adjustments are made to the instrument to bring it into alignment with the standard. This process ensures that the measurements taken by the instrument are accurate and reliable.


Why are scale calibrations important?

Accurate and reliable measurements are critical in many industries. Inaccurate measurements can lead to a range of problems, from incorrect product specifications to costly production errors. In some cases, inaccurate measurements can even pose a safety risk. it is important to follow the NIST standards when calibrating your scale to avoid the risks.

For example, in the medical industry, accurate measurements are essential for ensuring that patients receive the correct dosage of medication. In the food industry, accurate measurements are necessary for ensuring that products meet nutritional standards and are safe for consumption. In manufacturing, accurate measurements are crucial for ensuring that products meet quality standards and are safe for use.

In addition, many industries are subject to regulations and standards that require regular calibration of measuring instruments. Failure to comply with these standards can result in fines, legal action, and damage to a company's reputation.

How are scales calibrated?

The method used for calibrating a scale depends on the type of scale and the properties being measured. Here are some of the most common methods used for scale calibrations:

Weights and measures calibration

Weights and measures calibration is the most common method used for calibrating scales. This method involves comparing the readings from a scale to a known standard weight or measure. The standard weight or measure is usually provided by a national or international organization, such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the United States.

To perform a weights and measures calibration, a technician will first verify that the scale is level and that there are no external factors that could affect the measurement, such as vibration or air currents. The technician will then place a known weight or measure on the scale and record the reading. The process is repeated with several different weights or measures to ensure that the scale is accurate across its entire range.

Load cell calibration

Load cell calibration is a method used for calibrating scales that use load cells to measure weight. Load cells are devices that convert mechanical force into electrical signals, which are then used to calculate the weight of an object.

To perform a load cell calibration, a technician will apply known weights to the scale and record the output signals from the load cells. The technician will then compare the output signals to the known weights and make adjustments to the scale as necessary.

Volumetric calibration

Volumetric calibration is a method used for calibrating scales that measure volume, such as pipettes and burettes. Volumetric calibration involves measuring the amount of liquid dispensed by the instrument and comparing it to a known standard.

To perform a volumetric calibration, a technician will first clean the instrument and check for any defects that could affect the measurement. The technician will then dispense a known volume of liquid and measure it using a calibrated measuring cylinder or other

Types of Calibration

There are several types of scale calibration. The type of calibration required depends on the industry and the scale's intended use. The most common types of calibration include:

  1. Linearity Calibration: This type of calibration ensures that the scale's readings are consistent across its entire range of measurement. You will generally see this type of calibration performed on laboratory or precision balances.

  2. Eccentricity Calibration: This type of calibration ensures that the scale's readings are accurate when the weight is placed in different locations on the scale's platform. When a scale technician is performing this sort of calibration, then they will usually place a test weigh on each corner of the scale to ensure that the weight is consistent.

  3. Sensitivity Calibration: This type of calibration ensures that the scale's readings are accurate at low weight values. This type of calibration will usually be performed on laboratory balances. It takes a weight of a specific size (usually very small) to test the scale’s sensitivity. Which is finding the lowest weight that will register.

  4. Repeatability Calibration: This type of calibration ensures that the scale's readings are consistent when the same weight is measured multiple times. For example, you place a 50kg weight on a bench scale. The scale should read 50kg. You test the repeatability by placing the weight multiple times and checking that the weight is showing the same value.

  5. Traceability Calibration: This type of calibration ensures that the scale's readings are traceable to a recognized standard.

Conclusion

In conclusion, scale calibration is a critical process that ensures the accuracy, reliability, and consistency of measurement equipment. It is essential for ensuring compliance with regulations and standards, reducing errors, improving quality control, and increasing efficiency. By understanding the importance of scale calibration and following the proper procedures, industries can ensure that their measurement equipment provides accurate and reliable measurements over the life of the 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 scale maintenance, repair, technical articles and all around general scale information. American Scale is your sour for all things related to industrial scales.

Tips For Improving Scale Accuracy.

Maintaining the accuracy of a scale is crucial for anyone who relies on precise measurements for their work or daily life. An inaccurate scale can lead to errors in freight loads, incorrect dosages of medication, or inaccurate readings in laboratory experiments. Therefore, it is important to understand how to keep your scale accurate and calibrate it regularly. In this article, we will discuss the steps you can take to keep your scale accurate and extend its lifespan.

How to Keep Your Scale Accurate:

Step 1: Keep your scale clean

One of the easiest ways to keep your scale accurate is by keeping it clean. Over time, dust, dirt, and other debris can accumulate on your scale, affecting its accuracy. To clean your scale, you can use a soft cloth or a microfiber towel to wipe the surface and remove any dirt or debris. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes, as they can scratch the surface of your scale and cause damage.

Depending on the scale you are cleaning will determine how you clean the scale. For example, when cleaning a truck scale you won’t be able to use a micro fiber towel seeing as how the scale will be too large. You would want to use a high powered pressure washer to rid the scale of debris. Setting a good daily, weekly and monthly cleaning schedule and following it will help keep your scale accurate.

Step 2: Store your scale properly

When not in use, store your scale in a cool, dry place to protect it from moisture and humidity. Moisture can damage the delicate components inside the scale and cause it to malfunction. You should also store your scale in a protective case or cover to prevent dust and debris from accumulating on the surface.

This applies to smaller scales like bench, counting and lab scales. Storing these scales in a safe space will prevent dust and debris from getting into the load cells and circuitry.

Step 3: Calibrate your scale regularly

Calibrating your scale regularly is essential to ensure its accuracy. Calibration involves comparing the readings on your scale to a known weight to ensure that it is measuring accurately. You can purchase calibration weights online or from a certified scale dealer like American Scale. Calibration weights come in a variety of sizes and weights, so be sure to choose the appropriate weight for your scale.

To calibrate your scale, follow these steps:

  1. Turn on your scale and wait for it to display the zero reading.

  2. Place the calibration weight on the scale and wait for it to stabilize.

  3. Compare the weight displayed on the scale to the weight of the calibration weight. If the readings match, your scale is accurate. If they do not match, you will need to adjust your scale according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 4: Avoid overloading your scale

Avoid overloading your scale as this can cause it to malfunction and affect its accuracy. Most scales have a maximum weight limit, so be sure to check the manufacturer's specifications and follow the recommended weight limit. Overloading your scale can cause damage to the internal components, leading to inaccuracies in measurements.

There are instances where scales are overloaded and in turn damage the load cells. When purchasing a scale or replacement load cells be sure to check the max capacity listed. Choosing the wrong capacity could cause you to overload and damage your scale.

Step 5: Handle your scale with care

Handle your scale with care to prevent damage to the delicate components. Avoid dropping your scale or placing heavy objects on it. Also, be careful when moving your scale, as jarring movements can affect its accuracy. If you need to move your scale, be sure to place it in a protective case or cover to prevent damage.

In environments like warehouses and shipping facilities, which often use forklifts to load items onto floor scales. It is common for those scales to get damaged due to worksite hazards, collisions with forklifts and just careless handling. Remember to taky care of your scale.

Closing Words

Maintaining the accuracy of your scale is essential for anyone who relies on precise measurements. By following these simple steps, you can keep your scale accurate and extend its lifespan. Remember to keep your scale clean, store it properly, calibrate it regularly, avoid overloading it, and handle it with care. By doing so, you can ensure that your scale provides accurate measurements for years to come.

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale related. Be sure to check out our articles on scale systems, scale maintenance and the different scale types. These articles will help with the basics of 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.

What Is A Truck Scale Project Timeline

The truck scale Roadmap

The truck scale installation process can seem a bit convoluted when one doesn’t understand all that is involved. The infographic above helps lay out the entire truck scale building process. This article will briefly go over each step in the truck scale building process.

Site Review

The site review is what you do before you ever even begin to break ground and start the construction process. When you are performing a site review you want to do a walkthrough of the build site, noting the possible places to install the scale as well as noting potential pitfalls that could arise at the site. Essentially this step is the initial preliminary step of mapping out the truck scale build.

Purchase Scale

This step is where you spec out and make your scale purchase. Depending on which company you decide to go with will determine the delivery time and cost. Once you have secured a delivery date and shipping destination, the next step is to start getting te site prepped.

Set Schedule

Setting the schedule for the truck scale build is where you work with the site manager to get a build schedule into place. Coordinate with the site manager and walk the site and plan which components will be installed in designated locations. This is also the time where you coordinate with the contractor who will be pouring concrete. This step is reserved for setting the schedule for the remainder of the build.

Construction Begins

This is the “breaking ground” portion of the build. In this step is where you start digging the trenches for cables and electronics connecting to the truck scale being installed. Along with digging the trenches, this is also when the pouring of the concrete for the foundation begins as well. Keep in mind that the curing process for the foundation will take 14 days to completely cure.

Scale installation

The scale installation is where all the planning and scheduling comes together. The scale is delivered via tractor trailer to the build site. The scale deck is set into the foundation by a crane. Once the scale is properly set, the team installing the scale will then anchor down the deck and all accompanying wiring and connections. Typically if the deck is a steel deck then the installation process can tak one day to complete. It will be a lot onger (30 days) for a concrete deck.

scale calibration

After the scale has been properly installed, it is time to calibrate the scale and do a final systems check. During the calibration phase, the installation team will check to make sure the load cells are measuring the weight and that the scale is properly weighing correctly. After calibration is complete, the team will run final tests on the systems operating the scale.

conclusion

Installing a truck scale is a lengthy process, but with proper planning and scheduling, the entire process will seamingly flow together. You can download the roadmap infographic to help you track your progress.

Truck Scale Cleaning Guide.

The Importance Of Cleaning Your Truck Scale.

Keeping your truck scale well maintained and clean is an important part of truck scale ownership. Not only is it good practice to keep your weighbridge clean, it also helps you to have a productive maintenance schedule for your scale. This will help significantly reduce the risk of downtime and inaccurate weighing.

What it means to clean.

Cleaning your truck scale does not mean simply spraying the deck with some water, it also means visually inspecting the scale for any loose or missing parts that could contribute to an inaccurate weight. When discussing cleaning, it means the areas of the scale where dirt, mud, debris and other things get stuck and thus cause the scale to not work properly. It is fine having a clean deck, but the underside of the truck scale will need the most attention. 

Over time, the build-up of mud and debris can have a negative impact on a weighbridge performance. Compacted mud can set hard and reduce the movement of the weighbridge. This in turn causes reduced accuracy in weighing. Certain types of site environment will suffer more with mud and related issues and weather conditions can also play a part.

Keep in mind, weighbridge cleaning can be a bit tricky. For one you need to remove the mud and buildup so the scale platform can perform correctly. However, the water jet force required to remove dirt and debris from around a weighbridge’s critical weighing points can, if not performed correctly, damage load cells, cables, junction boxes, and summing boards.

When cleaning the scale, the lightest amount of water pressure you can use and still get adequate cleaning, the better.

Building a maintenance schedule

Weighbridge 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.

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.

The Guide to Scale Calibrations

Understanding the importance of calibrations.

Using a scale for an extended amount of time, especially in a business will require you to get your scale calibrated. Scales are not able to be accurate forever, there are factors that cause it to need calibrations periodically. Normal wear and tear occurs and over time, accuracy slips. It can degrade even quicker if the scale is exposed to electric or mechanical shock or is in a manufacturing environment with moisture, oils, metal chips, etc.

Calibration is the process of testing the scale, to ensure the level of accuracy you require. In a laboratory setting, where results are dependent upon exact weights, scale calibration is of particular importance. An inaccurate scale could significantly hurt your business. In processing and manufacturing, incorrect measurements could result in product quality issues, scrapped batches, or even a product recall. This guide will help  give some insight to scale calibration, helping to create a plan of action and ensure that less issues involving an inaccurate scale.

How Does Scale Calibration Work?

Using a test weight on your scale is the standard to properly calibrating your scale. The test weight reading is recorded, and if the weight readings match the standards applied or fall within the calibration tolerance, the scale does not need any adjustment. If the weight readings do not match or fall within the tolerance, service will likely be needed to restore the scale to the acceptable state of accuracy.

While an instrument may be capable of measuring a particular range of weight, it may or may not be calibrated for that entire range. Instead, there may be a calibration range that’s chosen, which ranges from zero to a maximum weight of your choosing (also known as the span). Once the calibration range is defined, the calibration is done at several points from zero to span to ensure high accuracy.

 

Factory Calibration                

When you purchase a scale, it often comes with factory calibration, which means that it was calibrated at the facility before you got the scale. In the few days that have passed since it left the factory, you might assume that your scale is delivered calibrated and ready for use, right? Wrong. The location of the factory and your location are two different places – with two different elevations and therefore, the on-site calibration is the only way to ensure your scale is accurate where you intend to use it.

If you do decide you want to have your scale calibrated once it arrives, then a third-party scale company is your best option. Your ultimate goal is to restore your scale to its original, optimal accuracy state, so the details matter. Some scale dealers will also offer calibration services, like American Scale, will not only calibrate the scale, but also make adjustments and perform repairs as needed to get the deviation from the mass standard back within tolerance.

How Often Should You Calibrate Your Scales?

How often you calibrate your scales depends on a few different factors; manufacturer’s recommendations, how often you use the scales, the environment they’re in, and how essential an exact weight is to your business. Some are calibrated once per month, others are only calibrated once per year, while some are even spot checked daily for accuracy.

After considering these factors, it’s determined that somewhere in the middle —certified calibration once per quarter with a weekly user spot check is ideal to ensure quality control of scales that are used fairly often. However, your needs may vary based on the information below.

Always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations first. Manufacturers should have a recommendation for the frequency of calibration, and since all scales are made differently, it’s usually safe to assume the manufacturer knows best.

If your scales are used multiple times throughout the day, every day of the week, normal wear and tear will occur faster than in scales that are used a few times per week. Therefore, if you use these scales more frequently, they should be calibrated more frequently.

The surrounding environment also plays a role. For example, if your scale is in an area that contains dust, fluids, or other substances, your scale could have a buildup of these substances that interfere with the performance of the scale. If you have the scale located in a place where there are vibrations, static electricity or mechanical shock, scale accuracy can suffer.

In general, you should also consider a more frequent calibration to ensure these substances and other work environment factors are not getting in the way of getting a precise weight.

Calibrations are done at a variety of frequencies, depending on a variety of factors. It’s important to note that if your equipment is frequently calibrated and almost always needs adjustment or repairs, it could be a sign of a bigger issue.

While the frequency of calibrations depends upon use, the rapid deterioration of accuracy warrants additional troubleshooting.

Once you’ve determined the appropriate frequency for your scales, you should look into signing a service plan with a calibration company. Many companies, like American Scale will work with you to learn more about your process and then create a maintenance plan tailored to you and your equipment

What Is Calibration Tolerance?

Calibration tolerance is defined by the International Society of Automation (ISA) as “permissible deviation from a specified value; may be expressed in measurement units, percent of span, or percent of reading.“ When it comes to scale calibration, tolerance is the amount the weight reading on your scale can differ from the nominal value of the mass standard that has optimal accuracy. Of course, ideally, everything would match up perfectly. Since that’s not the case, tolerance guides ensure that your scale is measuring weights within a range that will not negatively affect your business.

While the ISA specifically states that tolerance can be in measurement units, percent of span or percent of reading, it’s ideal to calculate the measurement units. Eliminating the need for any percentage calculations is ideal, as those additional calculations only leave more room for error.

The manufacturer will specify accuracy and tolerance for your particular scale, but you should not use this as your only source to determine the calibration tolerance you will use. Rather, in addition to the manufacturer’s specified tolerance, you should consider:

  • Regulatory accuracy and maintenance requirements

  • Your process requirements

  • Consistency with similar instruments at your facility

What Is Legal-for-Trade Calibration?                

Commercial scales require legal-for-trade calibration. That means the scale needs to be calibrated according to the standards found in “Specifications, Tolerances, and Other Technical Requirements for Weighing and Measuring Devices” — also known as “Handbook 44.” This comprehensive list of requirements is mandatory for all scales used for commercial purposes. A new version is published every year by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

Do I Need Legal-for-Trade Calibration?

If you use your scale for commercial purposes, you need legal-for-trade calibration. For example, at the grocery store, your lunch meat and cheese is weighed on a scale and is sold to you at a price determined by that weight. That grocery store scale is an example of a commercial scale.

Commercial scales require legal-for-trade calibration. A state weights and measures inspector will follow up to ensure that your commercial scale has proper calibration.  A device found to be out of tolerance by a state inspector is generally tagged and taken out of service.  To avoid the problems associated with a device being found out of calibration by a state inspector, owners of commercial scales should have them calibrated and adjusted periodically to keep them in proper operating order.

Do I Need to Register My Weighing Device?

Yes. Many states require that you register commercial scales with the state. Also, you must make sure that the state you plan to use the scale in approves of the purchase. Most states accept scales that are National Type Evaluation Program (NTEP) approved. NTEP-approved scales get a Certificate of Conformance (CC or CoC), showing its approval. This document is usually in the form of a metal plate or tag on the scale with the make, model and capacity information.

The state will inspect and test the scale then review the results.  As long as your scale has the Certificate of Conformance, and the scale performs to all of the relevant standards and tolerances in Handbook 44, you will pass inspection. If your device is out of tolerance, the state weights and measures official will not adjust it to bring it back within tolerance. Rather, you will be required to repair and adjust the scale. Only a licensed and professional scale calibration and repair company like Precision Solutions can do this.

Closing Words

Acuuracy is paramount when it comes to scales and weighing, an innaccurate scale can really cuase you a lot of lost time and money, if not remedied quickly. Remeber that in the long run if you have an innaccurate scale then you will lose a lot of potential profits. Consider how important an accurate weight is to your business. If your company can’t afford to have even the slightest inaccuracy in weight, it’s likely that more frequent calibrations will be necessary.

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.

The Guide to Scale Rentals

The Guide to Scale Rentals

Bench Scales

Scales, both large and small, greatly impact certain industries with their many features for recording weight data. Sometimes when in need of a scale, but just need it temporarily, then it may be a good idea to look into scale rentals. Often the purchase of weighing equipment is not the most economical or practical option. There will be cases where renting a scale can offer you a quick and reliable alternative while saving costs. In this article we will go over the benefits and drawbacks of scale rentals, and we will also take a look at the industries that tend benefit the most from scale rentals.

Renting vs Buying

When adding an industrial scale to your processing operation, you may wonder if you should purchase a new or go with renting a scale for what you need. One of the main things that you need to consider is how long you need the scale for. For instance, you work in a warehouse and need to do an end of the year inventory and make adjustments. You may only need the scale for the duration of your inventory check. These type of applications use bench scales or counting scales to complete their project. In this case purchasing a scale to only be used once per year would seem like a steep investment with little return. 

The factors that you will want to take into consideration is duration of rental, frequency of use, and what type of items are getting weighed. The reasoning for considering these factors is because they great affect the cost of whether renting is a better option over buying.

Benefits of rental Scales

There are several upsides to going the rental route, and the biggest upside is the potential cost savings. Considering that purchasing an industrial scale is a substantial investment, it can be a lot of upfront costs that may not fit into a budget. Renting a scale can help greatly reduce costs, especially if you only need it for a short amount of time. Below are a list of benefits that come along with renting an industrial scale.

  • Rental duration is flexible to your needs

  • Pickup and delivery of scales is included

  • Setup & calibration is included

  • Training on scale operation is available for your employees

  • ISO Certified documentation provided with each rental scale

The benefits of renting an industrial scale can definitely give you a speedy solution for your processing operation. If you are a site manager and need to keep the project under a certain budget and have it completed in a certain time frame, then renting a scale can possibly keep you under budget and ahead of deadline.

Best uses for rental scales?

When looking at who are doing more rentals over buying, it usually comes down to the general purpose of needing a scale temporarily. Usually when there is an uptick in scale rentals among, say retail shops, then it most likely is happening around inventory time. These places usually rent a bench scale or counting scale because of their ability to do bulk counting, thus providing the company with a quicker way to check the inventory and make adjustments.

The reasoning for this is because they are checking the inventory on a lot of very small parts. Having to check the inventory on lets say 10,000 screws would take entirely too long to count by hand and update the list. Using a counting scale can take a small sample size (say 10 screws) and then once the weight is calculated it can accurately count a much larger sample size.

Aside from renting smaller scales for inventory, there are other scales like crane and truck scales that you can rent when you are in need of weighing something substantially larger. When working on a construction site or some sort of work site that does not allow you to install a permanent scale, there are portable options available for rental. There are some work sites that do not allow you to excavate for whatever reason and require a less permanent option to complete the project. So renting a portable truck scale is the next solution, because it can be placed on a level surface with temporary ramps and approaches attached to it.


Who are renting scales?

When considering which industries are renting scales the most, it will almost be warehouses and retail shops. But they are not the only industries that benefit from renting a scale. There are places like construction sites, farms, feed mills that also benefit from renting a scale. Below are a few honorable mentions regarding scale rentals.

  • Racing industry

  • Aircraft

  • Fishing (especially fishing tournaments)

  • Food industry

  • Fairs, Carnivals

  • Warehouses (inventory)

  • Retail shops

There are a number of industries that use rental scales. Some will use wheel weighers (aircraft), while others may use an axle scale (race cars). Small scale aircrafts benefit greatly from a rental wheel weigher. The reasoning is because making sure that the weights and balances for the aircraft are correct. You may receive inquiries about these particular scales, due to the convenience that comes with them. There are even construction sites that need to rent a crane scale, to ensure the crane isn’t overloaded, thus adding an extra layer of safety to the crew and work site. Ultimately you will be able to find a rental scale for just about any application that you need.

Knowing what to look for

When looking at the scale companies that offer scale rental services, there are a few things you want to consider before renting a scale. The first thing is to see what scales are available for rent. That will greatly impact which direction you decide to go in. From the different types of scales available, then you next have to consider what you need the scale for and what the capacity level that you need. 

Drawbacks to renting a scale

Just like anything that has benefits, there are also drawbacks. When it comes to renting a scale this is no different. Granted the drawbacks to renting a scale may not be equal to the benefits, but it is still good to be aware of the possible issues when renting a scale.

One of the biggest drawbacks when deciding to rent a scale is that you are responsible for returning the scale in working order. That means that for the duration the scale is under your care, you are responsible for any possible damages that may occur. It goes back to the age old saying “you break it, you buy it”. So say for example you have a portable truck scale that you rented for 2 months. Say during the time you were in possession of it there is damage to the scale. If that happens then it is on you to pay for the broken product.

So if a short term rental has the risks of potentially damaging the scale, then you could possibly look into purchasing a truck scale. A good way to combat this, is to ensure that the work site where the scale will be going is void of any obstacles or hazards that could potentially damage your crew or the scale.

Another drawback is that the length of time that the scale is being rented could end up costing more than actually buying the scale outright. Granted there are some variables that come into play, and that is determined by the scale company that you are considering going to. Mainly it is good to really look at the time needed to use the scale. Calculating your schedule will help you to determine to correct length of time to rent the scale.


Closing words

Renting an industrial scale has a lot of positives and can greatly reduce the overall cost of your project. Looking at which scale companies offer you the best options in regards to rental scales, can help make a clear and informed decision. Use this guide as a reference when you are in the need of a rental industrial scale.

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.

Forklift scale Maintenance. Why it is important.

Forklift scales, also known as in-motion weighing systems, are an essential tool for any business that handles heavy loads. These scales are attached to a forklift and used to weigh materials as they are being moved, providing an accurate and convenient way to measure weight. Maintaining the integrity of your forklift scale is paramount to ensuring that your forklift scale gives accurate measurements.

Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your forklift 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. This article will go over why maintenance is important and what the different services that you can perform to ensure the integrity of your forklift scale. Also be sure to check out our learning hub for more articles on forklift scales and more.

Calibration

One of the most important aspects of forklift scale maintenance is regular calibration. Forklift 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.

There should be a routine calibration schedule for your forklift scale in place. The schedule will depend on how often your scale is being used. Generally you want to calibrate your scale at the least semi annually, but depending on the frequency of use, you may want calibrate it either quarterly or even monthly. Consult your local scale company about preventative maintenance packages. This can help eliminate some of the leg work with ensuring your scale is calibrated.

House Keeping

In addition to regular calibration, there are a few other key maintenance tasks that should be performed on a forklift 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.

If you use the forklift scale often, then a good practice would be to perform daily, weekly and monthly checks to ensure everything on the scale is working as it should and that it is also void of any dirt or debris.

Recording the service

It's also important to keep a maintenance log for your forklift 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.

There are different ways you can keep maintenance records. One of the ways you can keep track is by keeping an electronic log. Usually an excel sheet or or a notebook dedicated to that particular scale

Closing Words

Overall, regular maintenance is essential for keeping your forklift 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 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:

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.