Scale Indicators 101

The Guide To Scale Indicators

An industrial scale indicator is an important part of a legal for trade scale and helps collect and read information. A well maintained indicator can cause your weigh operation to run smoothly. Essentially an indicator can come with a lot of options or features that can include things like check weighing and counting. Ultimately the scale indicator is like the controller for a scale. It can provide weight values as well as perform specific tasks when collecting weigh data.

Weight indicators are digital or analog display devices that indicate the weight of an object located on a connected scale. The weight and measurements standards are created and maintained by the National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM). The standards are a way to keep things in order and hold up safety standards. Scale indicators are used in commercial and industrial applications to display the weight of products of various sizes. The devices offer a number of display variations to match the requirements of their many applications.

The use of scales has been around for a very long time. Granted the technology has advanced by leaps and bounds, the basis of scale usage is still the same. For the longest time scales were analog and were equipped with analog displays. Spring scales with analog displays were used a lot by shipping and parcel companies, because it helped increase overall efficiency. With the advancement of technology, digital weight indicators started to become the standard in industrial scales. 

INDICATOR TYPES

Weight indicators are available with a wide variety of features designed for specialized applications. Depending on the application and the type of device needed will determine the primary functions needed. Weight indicators are programmed to work with different scale types to work with a scale system and vary in type by a digital or an analog readout. An intricate indicator will be able to connect to a scoreboard/remote display or even monitor electronic load cells for scale calibration. Being able to connect to the junction box and monitor different aspects of the scale is a benefit for the operation as a whole. There are other features that can be included with an indicator like counting, checkweighing and wireless functionality. 

Modern weight indicators are generally used in industries such as industrial, factories, warehouses, shipping and receiving, food, chemical, energy and just about any other industry where materials are being weighed. 

One misconception to those new to industrial scales is that the indicator does everything. In reality, the weight indicators are not the ones that perform the weighing of an object. What happens is that the devices convert the weight measured by load cells into a digital readout. Essentially, weight indicators are like the computer for the scales. 

INDICATOR FEATURES

Indicators can come with a lot of features, depending on how you get them optioned. Weight indicators are grouped in accordance with their features.

Several features of weight indicators include:

• Washdown enclosures

• Size of the digital readout screen

• Light Emitting Diode (LED) Display

• Configurable analog to digital measurement rate

• Numeric keypad

• Three-stage digital filtering

• Various mounting options

The majority of weight indicators are optimized for a certain set of measurements. The figures will vary depending on the application. The indicator used for a bench scale will be optimized differently compared to an indicator optimized for weighing vehicles. Various indicators work automatically for use in unmanned weight terminals as well as units equipped with keypads or more advanced user interfaces. The additional features of advanced user interfaces provide more control to account for climate and unique material variations.

You will also find that Indicators equipped with oversized displays are used so they can be seen at distances of up to 50 feet or more. Industrial indicators usually feature a stainless steel casing. This is designed to allow the indicator to operate in extreme environments. Materials avoid rust, corrosion and degrading effects caused by excessive heat and wet conditions. There is also a washdown option for indicators as well. This encases the indicator making it completely sealed and is rated with an IP rating. These are used for environments where there is a lot of high powered washing and drastic temperature changes. 

INDICATOR APPLICATIONS

There are a wide variety of commercial and industrial applications for weight indicators. You will find indicators used in these following industrial applications:

• Bench scale applications

• Floor scale applications

• Tank or hopper scale applications

• Overhead track scale applications

• Truck scale or other transfer station applications

• Ready mix and concrete products dispensing applications

• Weigh house applications such as landfills or recycling centers

• Weigh lock applications (used in weighing canal barges)

• Tax, postage, freight and other cost levying applications

• Industrial process control applications

• Mining applications
  

INDICATOR SPECS

Industries can require specific features out of weight indicators. Pairing the features and specifications to the right indicator will ensure that your operation is running efficiently.

Typical specifications of weight indicators include:

• Maximum weight output 

• Hardware compatibility and other device compatibility measures

• Primary power source or alternate power source options

• Display type, size, brightness and clarity requirements

The interior of weight indicators includes electronic components and solid-state devices similar to those found in a computer. These materials normalize the flow of electricity and store, process and transmit data necessary for display. Circuitry comprises resistors, transistors, diodes, memory chips and various processing units that work together to perform the functions of the indicator. The electronics are silicon based with tin, silver or gold leads connecting them to main circuit boards. Circuit boards are manufactured from fiberglass and plastics. Several wires and controller ribbon cables made of flexible rubber and plastic work to connect displays and send input data and output data. Base units, springs and other mechanical pieces consist of metals such as stainless steel, durable plastics or polycarbonate materials.

The majority of weight indicators are appropriate for general-purpose weighing uses. However, certain applications require a device with tailored features to make sure it is suitable for the job. If the application involves weighing massive objects, choose an indicator with a high maximum weight display. For harsh outdoor conditions, there are many models with durable, washdown enclosures. Some devices are optimized for highly specialized uses like weight-based admixture dispensing.

Calibration and standards for weight indicators depend on which piece of equipment is being used. Each device must be calibrated to the weight scale system it operates with. Based on the weighing application the devices are designed to work with, weight indicators each have their own calibration and standards. Consult manufacturer’s guidelines to determine the calibration and standards requirements.

CONCLUSION

Ultimately, a scale indicator is a tool used to measure weight and track other measurements, thus making the work move efficiently.  There are a lot of factors to consider when looking for an indicator. Understanding the application that your indicator will be paired with can simplify your search and eliminate any unneeded extras or options from your search. If you are in the market for a new indicator or want to learn more about what options are available, then it is highly recommended that you check out our article on scale accessories as well as heading over to our scale accessories on our product page. 

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.

Costs Of Scale Accessories

The Cost of Extras.

Industrial scale accessories can greatly help with the overall efficiency and productivity of your operation. One of the main questions that is usually asked is “how much will it cost?” which is usually the main factor that determines if one will purchase any sort of product. In this article we will dive into the cost of different accessories for your industrial scale as well as offer our recommendations for accessories in each category. If you have not read our article about Industrial scale accessories, then it would be a good idea to read that as well. 

Indicators

An indicator is a device that turns electrical signals (that are caused by distortions in the base’s load cells) into something that can be read by users. The signals are converted to legible results on the display integrated into the indicator. Indicators include various applications to add functionalities (like counting or checkweighing) to platforms, offer data communication capabilities and buttons to navigate through menus or for sample entry. Essentially scale indicators are an integral part of any industrial scale operation, and because of the vast array of options available, it can prove to be quickly overwhelming to someone just starting their search. 

Types of indicators

Like scales and balances, there are many kinds of indicators. This list includes the most commonly used indicators and their main features are counting, Checkweighing indicators and washdown are the common indicators that you will encounter. Depending on the indicator type will determine the overall cost of the indicator. This section will give a quick overview of the indicators listed as well as the price you will expect to pay.

• Counting: Counting scale indicators You might have noticed most indicators include a counting function. So what makes a counting indicator different? It’s the inclusion of a full numeric keypad. A full numeric keypad allows users to enter sample numbers, unit weight and more quickly and easily. It’s especially useful when dealing with unwieldy numbers (for example, a unit weight of 15.78 grams) and for large inventories. Prices for these types of indicators can range anywhere from $550 to upwards of $2,000. 

• Checkweighing: a dedicated checkweighing indicator is designed to speed up checkweighing tasks. LED indicators or even the whole display will change color to indicate if a sample is over, under or within preset limits. They also often include an audible alarm that sounds when a limit is reached, so users don’t even have to look at the indicator while they work. Checkweighing indicators will range around $450- $1,500. 

• Washdown: These indicators are built to withstand dust, humidity and wet or harsh conditions. Their sturdy housings are rated a minimum of IP67 and often made of easy-to-clean stainless steel. They’re well-suited for weighing tasks in docks, ships, agricultural settings, food processing plants or demanding industrial environments. Combine them with a stainless steel platform for a rugged scale with high performance.

Remote Displays

Remote displays are not an essential part of your weighing operation, but can prove to be beneficial, especially if you are tight on space and need to free up space by mounting it to a wall. When it comes to remote displays, it is entirely up to you to determine if it is something you need. A good way to determine this is by evaluating the environment that you will be weighing the most and then look at if a remote display is necessary. When choosing a remote display, you can choose among a few options. There are single display and multi display options which allow you to view more than just one measurement. The differences are really broken down into the size of the display and also the viewing range of the display, which typically will start at around 150 feet on up. The cost of purchasing a remote display will start around $850 for a standard entry level display, and can reach up to $3,000 for a quad display. 

Printers

Including a printer in your operation is a good way to tie everything together and also have a way to print out measurements when needed. The most common printer used is the thermal printer. Dot Matrix is still used in some places, but is a lot bigger and heavier than a thermal printer, so for the sake of consistency we will just focus on thermal printers. Just like other accessories, it really comes down to preference. Depending on what you want to do, you are able to program the printer to print certain values or a report for the measurements recorded. When looking for a printer to add to your operation, expect to spend anywhere from $530-$1,230 for a 2”-4” thermal printer.

Closing Words

Industrial scale accessories can definitely tie your weight operation together and ensure that it runs in an efficient manner. Equipping your operation with a good digital display, printer and indicator will essentially remove extra steps when going through your entire process. To get a good grasp on what accessories can do for you, then check out our article on industrial scale accessories. Also be sure to check out our scale accessories page. There you can place orders and check prices on all that we carry.

Guide To Scale Accessories

Scale Accessory Basics

Accessories for your scale is an aspect that can change the dynamic of your weighing operation for the better. Typically when shopping for an industrial scale, one is already greeted with a plethora of base, deck, and load cell (analog or electronic load cells) options. When considering accessories for your scale, the main thing to remember is looking at your operation and knowing what you will actually need and if you will put the new equipment to good use. These aforementioned factors contribute to other things like calibration, and how well the scale indicator will connect. When you’re in the market to purchase an industrial scale for your operation, there are a number of different accessories that can really help your business to increase efficiency, speed and overall safety. This article will cover the accessories that you will most likely come across when considering your options.

WEIGHT INDICATORS

The first accessory that you will want to look at is a weight indicator. Weight indicators are an essential accessory for viewing the weight value when taking measurements. In harsh environments, your indicator and junction box are usually sealed to keep moisture from compromising it. Some are stainless steel for a washdown environment. This also factors in for your scale calibration. When taking weight measurements, an indicator will display your weight as well as offer other features. Depending on your operation, setup will determine what type of indicator you will want to consider. For example, if you have your scale located in a heavy washdown area, then you will want to consider an indicator with a high IP rating (IP65) which can withstand extreme environmental changes. Weight indicators have a lot of options as well. Not just for displaying the weight, but also can be optioned with features such as process control and the ability to communicate wirelessly with other additions. A good weight indicator will help save time and expedite weight measurements, while carefully organizing critical weighing information. A good scale and indicator combination will change the way your operation works for the better. Be sure to check out our indicators over at our products page. 

REMOTE DISPLAYS

Remote displays or scoreboard make viewing information much easier from a distance. You may have a floor scale placed in a meat packing plant but are unable to place the display next to the scale. That is where a remote display comes in. You now have versatility in that you can place the display in a more convenient area. Having a remote display will save time and effort for your operation when space limitations force you to relocate your display.  A remote display makes the weighing process a lot quicker and adds an extra element of safety for those operating the scale by reducing the back and forth of the weighing process. 

TICKET PRINTERS

Ticket printers are a great tool for scales due to offering the option to have a printed record of your weight measurement. Ticket printers allow users to print out readings at the scale itself. Some Active Scale ticket printers easily load paper, prevent paper jams, and feature an easily-accessible cabinet allowing the truck driver to simply reach down from their truck to retrieve their ticket. Coupling a good scale, indicator, and ticket printer will help your operation run a lot smoother and efficiently. 

GUIDE RAILS

When operating a vehicle scale, having guide rails is a great preventative measure to take to ensure the vehicle is safely on the scale platform. Guide rails are meant to direct vehicle traffic and prevent drive-offs on elevated platforms. These usually are welded to a steel deck. They are usually reserved for heavy duty weighing applications like truck scales. Typically guide rails will be of a rugged make and are bolted on so they will break away after being run into or struck to prevent hardware deformation. Guide rails are essential to vehicle scale safety. Knowing which style of guide rail is best for you will depend on how your vehicle scale is set up. 

UNATTENDED VEHICLE SCALE WEIGHING

With the advancement of technology, there is a push for things to be more autonomous. With scale operations, having a well set up operation designed to be unmanned will remove a lot of extra work and add some efficiency. With some instrumentation designed with a weather-proof enclosure, internal heater, thermal printer, and a rain hood, an unmanned weighing terminal performs well in all weather conditions. Terminals are able to be optioned with additional peripherals like, RFID readers, credit card collector, and money collectors can be added for convenience.

FINAL WORDS

Scale accessories can have a positive effect on the operations. The accessories listed above can help boost your operation’s efficiency as well as increasing the safety and all around flexibility of your operation. Be sure to check out our accessories section on our products page to place an order or to see what is offered. 

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.

Troubleshooting A Counting Scale

Troubleshooting Your Scale

When counting thousands of pieces or parts, accuracy is a key component that cannot be compromised. Even the smallest mistake can translate into significant expenses, missed production cycles, and wasted components. Using a counting scale is an effective and efficient way to determine the number of parts in receiving, warehousing, production or shipping. Whatever components your operation needs to count, it requires keeping the counting scale clean and well maintained. This article will cover basic troubleshooting tips as you get used to your new counting scale. 

Human Error

The technical level of the scale plays a major part in defining a scale's capability to weigh accurately. But no matter how advanced your weighing technology, when counting manually, the major sources of counting error are operator mistakes and piece-weight variance. Those operator errors are caused not only by misreading scale results or incorrect handling.

Miscounting  often starts one step earlier, namely when taking the reference weight. Take the correct reference To start a counting operation, you must first determine the average piece weight. Because even highly standardized parts have small deviations in weight, you have to calculate an average weight per piece to then count the bulk quantity.

When taking a sample of 10 pieces, for example, you can calculate the complete batch. Logically, the greater the sample quantity, the greater the likelihood that the sample will represent the bulk quantity. But more counting leads to more errors. Efficiency pressure, shift change or lacking operator concentration are common reasons for even this small number of reference pieces to be miscounted.

Not Reading Weight:

A common issue with any scale is when you have weight on the scale but it is giving a reading of zero. There are a few reasons for this. Sometimes it is as simple as checking the power source or ensuring that it is receiving power. Other times you may need to repair or replace the scale. Some ways to troubleshoot this issue are:

• Make sure all the supports of the scale are in direct and solid contact with the floor and that the scale is level.

• Make sure you have removed all the shipping screws from the platform.

• Make sure the feet are screwed in properly and not screwed in too high where a stud may be blocking the load sensor from flexing.

Reading Fluctuations:

You have weight on the scale, but the reading never settles down to a consistent number, jumping back and forth. If you experience this issue, your scale most likely needs service, repair or adjustment. Professionals can help you determine the issue and decide whether the scale needs calibration once it works properly again. Some ways to troubleshoot this problem are:

• Make sure the scale is not on a vibrating surface or being buffeted by winds.

• Make sure the scale is plugged in with a clean power source.

• Make sure any devices that might cause RF interference, like two-way radios or heavy industrial electric motors, are not interfering with the scale.

• Make sure no pins are missing from the load cell cable.

Inconsistent Readings

Depending on where you place the weight, you get a different measurement. Sometimes in our environments, we won’t realize that some surfaces may not be suitable for the counting scale. Environments and surfaces matter and could be the factor to causing you inconsistent readings. These tips below can help ensure a more consistent measurement. 

• Make sure you did not screw in one of the feet so tightly that it prevents the load sensor from flexing.

• Make sure all feet are on the floor.

• Make sure nothing is interfering with the platform.

Honorable Mention

Error Codes Manufacturers typically use error codes in their software to help diagnose issues with their scales. Error codes are usually clearly documented in the scale's manual. The code could mean anything from the scale needing calibration or that a particular component is malfunctioning. Referring to the manual is always the first step if an error code is displayed. 

Drifting

Drifting is another common problem scale users may face. Drifting occurs when a scale's display continuously fluctuates and is generally caused by water exposure. Water in the scale's indicator, junction box, load cells, cables, or internal components can cause erratic readings. If you discover water in the system, immediately shut it down. Allow the scale to completely dry. You may be able to use it again if there is no permanent damage.

Closing words

Owning an industrial scale is pretty straightforward, but like any piece of equipment will have its own issues throughout the duration of the ownership. These tips will serve as a good quick reference guide to help when you experience the aforementioned issues. For more information concerning counting scales, then check out our Counting Scale Basics article. 

How Much Does A Counting Scale Cost?

Breaking Down The Cost.

Pricing a counting scale can seem a bit daunting due to the amount of options, features and capacities. This article will break down what goes into the cost of a counting scale.A digital counting scale measures the weight of the items you place on the weighing platform and divide the weight by the number of pieces you entered, to compute the average piece weight. This is how a digital counting scale displays the number of pieces or parts or better yet how it works. The items that you are weighing have to be uniform in weight. Be sure that your weigh samples do not have a big variation in the weight of the items. Remember that the larger the weight sample is the better results the counting scale can provide.

What goes into the cost of a counting scale?

The anatomy of a counting scale is similar to different bench scales with different applications. When breaking down a digital counting scale, the parts that make up the scale will vary in price depending on features and quality of the part. A good example of this is if you were to price out an Ohaus counting scale (Ranger Count series) which costs roughly $900. This particular scale has a simple design with several features. This particular scale is by no means along the higher end of scales, but it is a well made scale with decent features but is not the absolute best scale you can buy.  On the other side you could be considering a higher end counting scale (A&D® FC-i/Si Series) which is $1,800 and has a lot more features which overshadow the Ohaus.  The A&D is going to be the better option with a lot more features.The item(s) you are counting must be uniform in weight. No counting scale will ever work if there is a significant variation in the weight of the items. The larger the initial sample (100 pieces versus 5 pieces) the better results the counting scale can provide since it averages out any variations in the piece weights.

Capacity Matters.

Many people buy a counting scale with more maximum capacity than they typically need. A good example is If 75% of the time you are counting no more than 10 lbs of parts at a time, a 10 lb. capacity counting scale is the ideal choice as opposed to a 50 lb. The reasoning for this is because having a too high of capacity will cause you to sacrifice resolution. Keeping your capacity in check will also help keep costs down when optioning your scale. Also a quick note; If you think you may need to weigh and count larger items in the future, just make sure you buy a counting scale with a remote scale option available or a counting scale with an accumulation function. A scale with the accumulation feature are, A&D HCi and the A&D FCi series scales.

Choosing the right scale.

When selecting the scale you want, it is a good idea to figure out what you will weigh the most. If you are to be counting lots of different weights, identify the weight of the lightest item. This will allow you to choose the appropriate scale resolution to obtain a precise and accurate weight. Knowing this will help you to pick the appropriate counting scale. Once you figure out your maximum capacity and know what you will be weighing it is time to select a scale. In the second half of this article we will discuss the scales that we recommend for each level. This will help give some insight as to where to start. 

Our recommendations

Intro Level:

• Cardinal C Series: The Cardinal C series portable counting scales are a good scale to get started with. The C series counting scales are ideal for inventory counting where you need a more mobile option. The scales come in 30 lb/15 kg, 65 lb/30 kg, and 100 lb/50 kg capacities and feature a rechargeable battery pack standard for mobile weighing. These durable counting scales offer a full keypad to enter and recall known piece weights and tare weights, metric conversion, 1/300,000 counting resolution, bubble level, and non-skid feet for stability. You can quickly count multiple inventory parts with ease, and 15,000 weight divisions makes them capable of counting the smallest of parts. Starting Price: $569

Mid Level:

• Rice Lake Counterpart Series:More than a weight indicator and more than a counting scale, Counterpart from Rice Lake stands alone as a configurable counting indicator, able to convert almost any scale base into an intelligent piece-counting device—for parts of every shape and size. Unlike traditional counting scales, Counterpart uses Rice Lake’s simple configuration method to adjust to the parameters and resolution of any attached scale base, whether a floor scale, bench scale, or laboratory balance. Counterpart also connects with most barcode scanners, label printers, and inventory management software, making it a versatile piece of equipment. Starting Price: $1,080

High Level:

• A&D® FC-i/Si Series:The FCi Series counting scales utilize ACAI, A&D’s exclusive Automatic Count Accuracy Improvement. ACAI combines the two most critical performance requirements of a counting scale: count accuracy & operation expediency. Initial Average Piece Weight can be determined through an operator’s choice of fixed, random, keyboard entry, or memory recall.Starting Price: $1,800

Conclusion

Counting scales are a great way to streamline and make your operation a lot more efficient. Knowing what type of items you will weigh and the frequencies of each measurement will make your job a lot smoother. The scales mentioned above are good starting points to help guide you with your scale purchase. For more information, please check out our article on counting scale basics. You can also head over to our products page to check out our counting scales selection.

Beginner's Guide To Counting Scales

What Is A Counting Scale?

A counting scale is a scale designed to count items placed on a weighing machine. These types of scales are legal for trade and a convenient option compared to manual counting. They usually have a small stainless steel deck, and will require lower weight for scale calibrations. Have you ever tried counting out two bolts or nuts at a hardware store? It is a part of a scale system that allows for one to quickly sort through inventory. Depending on the weighing application will determine how heavy your measurements will be. The process is very time consuming and mundane. Now imagine having to count over 1,000 bolts. That would take entirely too long and would take away from productivity. This is where counting scales come in. They are designed to keep you from spending all your time counting inventory.

HOW DOES A COUNTING SCALE WORK?

To understand how a counting scale works, is to also understand the layout of the scale. On most dedicated counting scales there will be three displays - 'Weight', 'Piece Part Weight' and 'Total Count’. Weight gives the total weight applied to the scale, piece part weight is the individual average weight of the items being counted and the magic resulting total number of pieces is on the last display.

In order to count accurately, counting scales will need to know what exactly they will be weighing. To do this we provide a weight sample to let the scale know what is being weighed. The scale is communicating with the junction box and scale indicator by signal from the electronic load cells. The sample gives the scale two pieces of information, the weight and how many pieces that weight is. So we counted a sample of say 30 bolts and placed them on the pan and the weight was 30g. So the scale knows that the individual weight is 1g, 30g divided by 30 items. Once the scale has this information you can now add more bolts to reach your desired number of pieces, and watch the total count.

WHY DO I NEED A COUNTING SCALE?

Imagine having to count out your inventory by hand, and you have thousands of items that will need to be counted. The amount of time needed to count out your entire inventory is way too long. Having a counting scale helps take out the manual aspect and helps speed up the entire process. Having a counting scale is essential to saving time

Selecting the right counting scale is also very important, as it would be unfortunate to find that the scale you purchased is not counting correctly and costing you time and money.

Keep in mind that just because an item looks the same does not mean it is the weight. Even load cells (analog or electronic) have differences amongst them. Even with calibration, the scale could have varying capacities. The items may have been made with different materials or even machining and operator tolerances. So just because they look the same they may not weigh the same. If you do not take into account the tolerances then the error can quickly multiply up when counting your bulk resulting in inaccurate counting.

3 STEPS TO FINDING THE BEST COUNTING SCALE

1) Determine the average piece part weight

Consider your application. If you are going to be counting lots of different items with various weights, first identify the lightest item you will be counting. This will determine the resolution required from the scale. So we have an item we wish to count, take 10 of those items and weigh each one on a precise scale and record the individual weight. Next add those weights together and divide by 10, the result gives you the mean average weight. This takes into account the variations in tolerance of the part. So we now have the average weight for the smallest item being weighed.

2) Determine the maximum weight

So we have an item that we know the average weight of, so how many are we going to count out. Are you bagging say 200 pieces to be sent to production? Or is there 5,000 pieces in a bin and you are checking for stock? Either way the maximum weight is literally the average piece part weight times the quantity.

3) Choose your scale

So we know the average weight and the maximum weight, 2.5g and 25.0kg. Now let's determine the capacity of the scale. Our example has an average weight of 2.5g. The counting scale needs to be able to measure this and allow for the variations in tolerance, so it is commonplace to either divide the average by 10 or half the average weight. In this case we will half the average weight to 1.25g. This means that I will need to look for a scale that will weigh in steps of 1.25g up to or over 25kg in capacity. I know in this case the CBC 32 has a resolution of 1g and a working capacity of 32kg, so this will cover my needs.

CLOSING WORDS

Counting scales are essential to operating in an efficient manner. Being able to weigh as well as count out the amount of items will greatly decrease time spent on the sorting/counting aspect and save the bottom line. Counting scales have definitely made sorting through smaller pieces a lot easier. They are easily customizable, one can even order different scale accessories for it like a remote display or scoreboard. Be sure to check out our counting scale page to see which scales we carry.

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale 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.

Top Livestock Scales For Each Application

Picking The Right Scale

Working with cattle and livestock is an involved job, and maintaining the animal’s weight and health is a large part of the process. Accuracy is an essential element within the Agricultural Industry, and scales used for weighing livestock are no exception. The scales must be up to date, scale calibration must be performed at regular intervals (no matter electronic or analog), and maintained to ensure that you obtain the most accurate results possible. Inaccuracies when dealing with livestock weight can affect the bottom line. So make sure that you keep your scale and scale indicator void of anything that can cause issues. Ensuring that you are reading accurately depends on choosing the right scale for your operation. Knowing about the different types of livestock scales upon the market can feel overwhelming, but research can make the task of finding the right scale not as difficult.  There are hundreds of livestock scales available, and manufacturers like to claim them to be the best for the job. This article will break down the top livestock scales (stationary, mobile, and portable) available on the market today. 

CHOOSING A SCALE

When choosing a scale, remember to think about when and where the scale will typically be used. Will you primarily be weighing one animal at a time, or multiple? Is it important for you to get a Legal for Trade reading? Is it important that the scale is NTEP certified? These are a few questions you should answer before looking for a scale to ensure that you’re investing in the agricultural scale which is best suited for your needs.

STATIONARY SINGLE ANIMAL SCALES

Single Animal Scales are great for smaller operations where only one animal needs to be weighed at a time. Not only do these give you the animal’s weight, they also give you a legal for trade weight reading. SAS include heavy-duty stainless-steel bars to keep the animal in place in order to get an accurate reading. Different variations also come with advanced features such as noise reduction or padded flooring.

Rice Lake: (SAS) Single Animal Scale:

Rice Lake single animal scales (SAS) offer safe and reliable weighing for a wide range of livestock including cattle, bison, horses, sheep, swine, and exotics. With a load capacity of up to 5,000 pounds and Legal for Trade readability in one pound increments, the SAS is ideal for county fairs, youth agriculture organizations, university research centers, veterinary practices, and other small- to medium-size operations that do not require a multi-animal scale.

• Gate configurations: swing gates, sliding gates, combination swing and slide gate, or head gate with swing or slide gate

• Solid 48-inch kick panel sides

• Ships assembled

• Durable X-Lug or X-Plank floor over steel

• Rugged all-weather powder paint

Cardinal: SLS Series:

Cardinal Scales SLS series steel deck single animal livestock scales are available with or without a livestock pen and dual slide-out gates. They feature an extremely accurate 2,500 lb x 0.5 lb, or 5,000 lb x 1 lb capacity, varying widths and lengths. NTEP certification and quality construction throughout the scale for weighing cattle, swine, horses, sheep, goats, and more. Indicator sold separately.

• TB 2,500 lb stainless steel load cells with adjustable support feet

• Side-access stainless steel junction

• Rubber mat interior flooring for sure footing and noise reduction

• Customizable pen options for versatility

B-Tek: SAS Series:

The B-TEK Small Animal Livestock Scale offers reliable weighing for a wide range of small livestock with a capacity of 1,000 or 2,500 lbs. Ideal for veterinary practices, agriculture organizations, research centers, county fairs, and operations that do not require a multi-animal scale, the B-TEK Small Animal Livestock Scale is versatile to meet the needs of the environment and animals.

• Plated alloy steel, 350 Ohms, 3.0 mV/V, FM Approved

• 1K capacity: (4) 500 lb cells

• 2.5K capacity: (4) 1,000 lb cells

• Optional hermetically sealed (IP68) cells are available

• Electrical Junction Box: NEMA 4 box with signal trim summing board

MULTIPLE ANIMAL SCALES (STATIONARY AND PORTABLE)

Group Animal Scales are capable of providing legal for trade weights in locations where the scale may need to weigh more than one animal before transport or at the processing site. In addition to the scale’s ability to meet the physical demands of remote cattle weighing, the instrumentation package that complements the scale provides a complete report for each batch and lot of animals weighed. 

 

Rice Lake: MAS-LC Stationary Animal Scale Series:

This scale combines the accuracy of fully electronic weighing technology with steel I-beam weighbridge designs typically found in heavy capacity vehicle weighing scales. With a wide range of sizes, the MAS-LC is the right choice for any stationary cattle weighing application. Like all MAS series scales, the MAS-LC is certified for commercial use in both the United States and Canada. Certified scales are held to exacting design characteristics providing accurate weights allowing you to sell across the scale. 

• Bolt-on racks and swinging gates

• Durable X-Lug or X-Plank floor over steel I-beam

• Solid 48-inch kick panel sides

• Spring-loaded latch on swinging gates

• Rugged all-weather powder paint

• Scale collapses for shipping

Cardinal portable MAS series:

Cardinal Scales portable Weight Wrangler group animal scales provide a self-contained NTEP legal for trade weighing system that can be used on any firm surface with up to a 5% grade (maximum allowed by NTEP). The hoof-gripping rubberized component deck and steel cattle pen enclosure with dual swing gates are all suspended at four points within a portable base frame. 

• Calculates Shrink Loss for Livestock Group

• Can Be Used on Any Firm Surface With up to a 5% Grade

• Durable Steel Cattle Pens

• Includes Lower Frame for Portability

• Includes Mobile Weighing Center

• NTEP Legal for Trade

FARM BARS

The most basic livestock scale you can get is a Farm Bar Scale. Farm Bar Scales are a type of farm scale that are easy and convenient to use due to the fact they can be placed under platforms or cages and used to weigh livestock in virtually any location. Farm bars are extremely durable, and often weather-proof as they are typically constructed from steel. These heavy-duty, electronic load cell scales can be mounted under most cattle squeeze chutes, hog crates, feed hoppers, and custom platforms.

B-Tek Weigh Rails

B-Tek Weigh Rails are ideal for all types of farm and animal weighing applications. Weigh Rails can also be adapted for industrial uses that are not practical for regular platform scales. Rugged all-steel construction, sealed components, and stainless steel load feet for outdoor use year-round. The lag-down foot retainer plates are great for a permanent install, can become portable for temporary or seasonal use. The B-Tek Weigh Rails are a good option for a setup that requires versatility. 

• Rail Capacity: 2,500 to 10,000 lb system gross capacity

• Rail Length: 22 in long weigh rails, 2,500 lb capacity x 0.5 lb

• Rail Height: 4-1/4 in

• Junction Box: Remote mount NEMA 4X stainless steel junction box with signal trim summing board

 

Adam Equipment Pallet Beam Livestock Scale

The Adam Equipment pallet beam scales are made from superior grade rugged stainless steel. The rugged stainless steel does not just protect it against water and dust, but makes it durable and eco-friendly as well. These pallet beams are designed for smaller to medium sized animals. 

• Measures in g, kg, lb, oz 

• Allows you to track capacity

• Wall-mountable indicator

• Changes color when the weight is over or under the limit

• Weighing, parts counting, check weighing, and dynamic weighing

MOBILE LIVESTOCK SCALES

A step up from stationary and portable, mobile scales allow for the weighing of multiple animals at once with the versatility of being portable. Many of these scales also come with legal for trade weight reading features, as well as NTEP certifications. A full-size livestock scale comes in various forms such as a Livestock Ring Scale, a Mechanical Stationary Livestock Scale, or a Mobile Group Livestock Scale. They are designed to equip various scale accessories including remote displays and scoreboards. When choosing from the different types of portable scales, it’s important to consider why, when, and where the scale will be most frequently used.

Cardinal Weight Wrangler: LSM series

Cardinal Scales mobile Weight Wrangler group animal scales provide a self-contained NTEP legal-for-trade weighing system that can be used on any firm surface with up to a 5% grade. This livestock scale includes an integral air pump to easily lift and lower the trailer's air bag suspension. Models come in 18-ft-long tandem axle or 13-ft-long single axle sizes. The X-lug rubberized component deck and steel cattle pen enclosure with dual gates are all suspended at four points within a mobile base frame. 

• High-Quality X-Lug Composite Flooring for Livestock Stability and Assurance Included Standard

• 3 Heavy-Duty Panels and Bows on 18-ft Models. Cardinal Scales Panel Construction is the Heaviest in the Mobile Cattle Scale Industry

• Available in 13-ft-long Single Axle or 18-ft-long Tandem Axle Sizes

• StableSense Digital Filtering Compensates for Animal Movement While Weighing to Provide Accurate Weights

• Calculates Shrink Loss for Livestock Groups

Rice Lake: MAS Series

Built with the physical demands of remote weighing in mind, the MAS-M livestock scale provides legal for trade measurements even when the scale is placed off-level by up to three degrees (or 6%). No other model brings as much flexibility as Rice Lakes Livestock Scale performance. The scale employs an independent air ride suspension which allows it to be moved in and out of weighing mode by simply adjusting the air pressure in the air bags. Load is applied to and or removed from the cells through a manual lift/lower lever system.

CONCLUSION

The livestock scales listed are not the final word on livestock scales. This merely serves as a guide as to what to look for when it comes to familiarizing yourself with the scale system as well as getting a better idea as to what you want and what works best for you. Be sure to check out our Livestock Scales 101 article which breaks down the basics of livestock scales. If you are looking to start the process on your livestock scale, then be sure to check out the Livestock scales under the product section.

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale 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.