Bench scales are everywhere and are used in various industries, such as shipping and receiving, manufacturing, and food processing. Bench scales generally have a compact footprint, making them ideal for processes with limited space. However there are various sized bench scales available from small portion control type scales up to large 24″x24″ scale platforms.

Selecting a bench scale seems pretty simple but there are actually a lot of things you need to consider before you make the purchase. Important things to consider include: platter type, capacity and size of the scale, accessories, industry requirements and manufacturer support.

Scale Material, Construction, & Enclosure
It is essential to ensure the bench scale’s construction is suitable for the environment. You should consider a stainless steel bench scale for applications involving corrosive materials or heavy washdowns. Stainless steel operates well in corrosive environments because it does not rust or corrode easily. For less demanding applications, a mild steel bench scale could be a comparable alternative to a stainless steel one.

Bench Scale Platter Top
Another thing to consider when choosing a bench scale is the scale’s top: flat top, ball top or roller top. A flat-top bench scale is used in many diverse industries for general purposes. A ball-top bench scale has multiple moving cylinders built into the top that allows a package, for example, to be rolled on or off the scale in any direction. The roller-top bench scale has multiple rollers built into the top, allowing the item being weighed to move forward or backward along a production line.

Capacity and Size
Before choosing a bench scale, evaluate the items you will be weighing. Observe the dimensions and weight of the smallest and largest items to determine if the capacity and size of a single bench scale would be suitable. If not, you will need an additional scale to obtain accurate weighments. While choosing a bench scale, you should ensure the scale’s capacity is higher than the heaviest object that will be weighed.

Power Requirements
Most scales operate on standard 110VAC power.  However, do you plan on moving your bench scale to different locations?  Will all those locations have power nearby?  You may need a bench scale with rechargeable battery. 

Industry Requirements
When considering bench scale options, it is important to understand the installation guidelines required for approval. For example, selling goods based on weight involves a Legal for Trade installation, which requires the scale’s measurements first to be certified. This certification is performed by state certified scale technicians. Scales used in hazardous environments have additional certifications. The desired bench scale must meet the safety requirements for potentially explosive environments.

Bench Scale Accessories & Features
You should also consider the types of accessories you may need. Will your scale require any type of mobility or extra indicator columns? Depending on your manufacturer, they may be able to provide you with a portable bench scale or a mobile scale cart to securely hold your bench scale in place while providing extra mobility. A bench scale indicator column holds the associated indicator (if one is needed) above your bench scale for easy weight readings. You also want to consider things like LCD or LED displays and check weighing capability as well.

Manufacturer Support
Lastly, you should find a scale manufacturer and local scale dealership to support you during the selection process, installation, and regular calibration and scale maintenance. Rice Lake Weighing Systems works with an extensive network of authorized dealers like Central Carolina Scale who are ready to help you during the selection process. Rice Lake also offers in-house technical scale specialists who can assist with product selection and create custom bench scale solutions. Call our sales team (919) 776-7737 to get started designing your perfect bench scale system.