Author Archives: Scale Man

Importance of Vehicle Scales at a Rail Logistics Facility

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Using vehicle scales at a rail freight logistics facility is important for a variety of reasons, including cost savings, safety, and efficiency. Below, we will explore these reasons in more detail.

Rail service has an amazing history of fueling this country’s overall economic growth by moving freight across the country.  But if you think about it, rail service isn’t the most popular choice of travel in most folks minds when it comes to their logistics and supply chain optimization strategy. 

In addition to railroad track scales, rail logistics service solutions can often benefit from having a 70’x11′ truck scale at their facility. Or perhaps a larger platform such as 80′ x 11′ or even 90′ x 11′ would work better?

70 ft long truck scale for rail logistics

Intermodal Travel for Containers or Trailers

Intermodal freight focuses on the best way to send long haul shipments domestically, utilizing both truck and rail to move containers & the traditional 53′ domestic containers that you’ve surely seen on the highways. Basically, in a lot of people’s minds, “intermodal” is the better way to ship, both economically and environmentally, for truckload shipments of 700 miles or more. There are two types of domestic intermodal shipping in container-on-flatcar (COFC) and trailer-on-flatcar (TOFC). 

Using truck scales at a rail freight logistics facility can help to save money. Accurate measurement of cargo using vehicle scales allows facilities to optimize the use of railcars and ensure that they are not overloading or underloading them. Overloading railcars can lead to additional costs, such as the need for additional railcars or the need to pay overweight fines. On the other hand, underloading railcars can lead to wasted space and lost revenue. By using scales to accurately measure the weight of cargo, facilities can optimize the use of their railcars and reduce costs. Continue reading →

How Does a Load Cell Work?

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You can step on a scale at the doctors office or buy fresh produce off a scale at the farmers market. Either way the scale you are looking at includes a load cell inside. But, how exactly does that load cell work?  What does a load cell do?  How does a load cell send weight data to a digital weight display?  Let’s find out.

What is a Load Cell?

For our example, we are going to focus on the most common load cell which is the strain gauge cell.  A strain gauge load cell is a type of device used to measure weight or force. It is commonly used in a variety of applications, such as weighing scales, process control automation, and testing and measurement. The load cell works by converting a force, such as the weight of an object, into an electrical signal that can be measured and send weight data to a computer.

There are several types of strain gauge load cells. This type of load cell consists of a small metal beam or rod, often made of aluminum or alloy steel, which is attached to a base. The beam is designed to flex or bend slightly under the weight or force applied to it.

how does a load cell work

How Do Load Cells Work?

At the heart of the strain gauge load cell is a thin, flexible strip of material called a strain gauge. The strain gauge is attached to the beam in a specific pattern, known as a Wheatstone bridge configuration. When the beam is subjected to a force, it will flex or bend slightly, causing the strain gauge to stretch or compress. This change in the length of the strain gauge results in a change in its electrical resistance. Continue reading →

Importance of Vehicle Scales at Solid Waste Facilities

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The waste industry demands heavy-duty scale equipment that is built to survive long periods of service and harsh environments. From truck scales and onboard weighing systems to digital weight indicators and scale controllers, we have several heavy-duty weighing products ideal for the waste industry.

Using scales at a solid waste facility is important for a variety of reasons, including regulatory compliance, cost savings, and environmental protection. 

First and foremost, using scales at a solid waste facility helps to ensure regulatory compliance. Many states and localities have laws and regulations governing the handling, processing, and disposal of solid waste. These regulations often include requirements for the accurate measurement and reporting of the weight of waste materials, which can help to ensure that waste is being properly managed and disposed of. By using scales to measure the weight of waste materials, solid waste facilities can ensure that they are in compliance with these regulations, which can help to avoid costly fines and penalties.

rice lake truck scales for solid waste facility

In addition to regulatory compliance, using scales at a solid waste facility can also help to save money. Accurate measurement of waste materials using scales allows facilities to accurately charge customers for the disposal of their waste. This can help to reduce the risk of overcharging or undercharging customers, which can lead to lost revenue and a less competitive business. In addition, using scales can help facilities to optimize their operations and identify opportunities for cost savings, such as by identifying and reducing the amount of waste that is being generated or by identifying and separating recyclable materials that can be sold to generate additional revenue. Continue reading →

Why it’s Important to Use Accurate Scales and Load Cells on Concrete Batching Hoppers

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Using scales at a concrete batching facility is extremely important to guarantee the quality and consistency of the final product. In fact, it can be argued that the use of scales and weighing equipment, is one of the most critical aspects of the entire concrete production process. There are several reasons why this is the case, which we’ll discuss below.

Accurate Ingredient Mix

Using scales and strain gauge load cells helps to ensure that the correct amount of ingredients are used in the concrete mix. Concrete is made up of a mixture of cement, water, sand, and aggregate, and the proportions of these ingredients play a major role in determining the strength and durability of the final product.

If the amounts are not accurately measured, the concrete may be too weak or too brittle, which can result in costly failures or repairs down the line. By using hopper scales and load cells to measure the exact quantities of each ingredient, concrete producers can ensure that the batch is consistent and accurate. 

load cells for a cement hopper

Quality is important. But, utilizing scales at a concrete batching facility can also help to reduce waste and save the concrete company quite a bit of money. If the proportions of ingredients in the concrete mix are not accurately measured, it can lead to excess or shortages, which can result in wasted materials and additional costs. By using hopper scales with strain gauge load cells to measure the exact quantities of each ingredient, concrete producers can become more efficient. 

Load Cells for a Hopper 

Scales and weighing equipment is used at batch plants. Strain gauge load cells are installed on hoppers to weigh the elements of the mix. It is very important that any moving parts of the batching system are inspected on a regular basis for any buildup or seizing.

Furthermore, using scales at a concrete batching facility can help to improve efficiency and productivity. Accurate measurement of ingredients using scales allows for the production of consistent batches of concrete, which can be processed more quickly and efficiently. This can help to reduce the time and labor required to produce each batch, resulting in increased productivity and profitability for the concrete producer. Continue reading →

55 Gallon Drum Scales Buying Advice

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In today’s entry we are going to look at weighing scales that are designed to weigh 55 gallon drums with ease. There are quite a few scale choices out there from the Brecknell DS1000 to the Rice Lake Roughdeck BDP and everything in between.

There are numerous things took look out for when you are looking to purchase a drum scale. We’ve seen some pretty good choices that are relatively affordable and we’ve seen some affordable scales that are not very good or repeatable.

Thoughts on the Rice Lake BDP Drum Weigher

When you’re in the market for a drum scale, first decide what brands and/or price range you are interested in. We mention this because the quality, accuracy, and consistency of Rice Lake Roughdeck BDP drum scales is going to be higher than some of the low cost platform scales you might find online. Why you might ask? One reason is the load cells. Of course, these systems are also likely going to cost more money as well.

55 gallon drum weigh scale

Painted Steel Drum Scales for Steel Weighing?

While we’re at it, just to be clear, don’t confuse these low profile drum scales with a steel drum scale. The latter are sometimes mentioned as choices for weighing large steel coils, which is not what a drum scale can accommodate.

Ok, now that we have that out of the way….

A lot of industrial warehouse locations or perhaps a busy shipping area where goods are constantly being moved around by a pallet jack can use a drum weigher. A drum scale is typically a low profile floor scale that is actually a lower profile than a traditional 4×4 floor scales that virtually every warehouse utilizes.

Drum scales can be used with or without one or more ramps. Other weight choices to consider with a drum scale system include digital weight indicator features such as LCD display, RS-232 communication for connecting to a printer or computer, or battery power. Battery power is helpful and would allow the scale to be installed in remote locations where a power outlet might not be available. Another feature that is handy for a portable application would be either a portability frame, wheels, or two handles.

What are the Capacities and Readabilities of each model?

An imported drum scale platform typically features integral ramps, live side rails, wheels, and handles for the ultimate in versatile weighing. The majority of drum weighing scales are available in 500, 1000, or 2000 pound capacities. Popular platform sizes of most drum scales are typically somewhere around 30″ x 30″ or 36″ x 36″.

Also, it’s worth mentioning a special note regarding dimensions. You will want to make sure what dimensions you are going by when choosing a drum scale. Obviously, you want a low profile scale that is easy to roll heavy drums onto. But, there are the overall dimensions and there are the actual low profile platform portion of the scale to consider as well.

CAS R2 Portable Drum Weigher

Thoughts on the CAS Corporation R2 SERIES DRUM SCALE

The CAS R2 Series Drum Scale stands out for its numerous features that make it a versatile and portable weighing solution. First, it is constructed with reinforced mild steel, ensuring durability and longevity. The anti-skid diamond plate deck guarantees a secure grip for the drums being weighed. The light weight R2 Series has two heavy duty handles and two casters built into the frame. Need to move your scale? No problem. Pick it up and roll it. It’s that easy! This product is manufactured overseas but supported by CAS USA headquartered in NJ. 

One of the key characteristics of this drum scale is its portability. The integral ramps make it easy to roll drums onto the scale, and the live side rails provide added safety and stability during the weighing process. The scale is also equipped with built-in casters, allowing for effortless transportation from one location to another. Additionally, handles have been included to further enhance portability.

Lastly, the CAS R2 Series Drum Scale comes with a 1-year warranty, providing peace of mind to users. This limited warranty covers defects in workmanship during the first year of use.

What are the features of the Brecknell DS1000 Drum Scale?

The Brecknell DS1000-LCD Drum Scale boasts a range of impressive features that make it an excellent choice for bustling shipping areas and drum weight monitoring. Designed to handle the constant movement of goods by pallet jacks, this scale is both portable and low-profile. Its rugged steel deck is powder coated for durability, ensuring that it can withstand heavy use.

One standout feature of this scale is its unique 9% entry and exit ramp, which facilitates easy rolling of drums on and off the platform. This gradual incline eliminates any hassle or difficulty when maneuvering drums, saving time and effort.

With its user-friendly design, the imported Brecknell DS1000-LCD Drum Scale is incredibly simple to operate. Its indicator offers a comprehensive range of weighing functions, making it suitable for a wide variety of applications. Additionally, it features a display-hold function, allowing users to retain results on the screen for reference.

This scale is highly versatile in terms of power options. It can be both AC and battery powered, enabling installation in remote locations where power sockets may not be readily available. This portability allows for greater flexibility in using the scale wherever it is needed.

Key Points to Know about Electronic Scales for Weighing a 55 Gallon Barrel

Most drum scales, which can also be called barrel weighing scales, are constructed of painted steel. The actual weighing platform is usually a diamond tread design. You can also get a stainless steel drum scale as well. Items can be weighed on the scale platform and/or across the side rails for larger items. A low profile design with ramps can be a great choice for dollies, wheeled carts with a drum to be easily rolled onto the platform.

In most cases, drum scales are designed to be durable and accurate. But, they are also designed to be lightweight and portable in many situations. That is a balancing act for many situations. In order to make a drum scale portable, it needs to be able to roll and be light enough for an average person to pick up on it’s side.

One of the issues that we sometimes see with drum scales is a tendency for the scale to be dropped. This can happen fairly easily. Someone sets the drum scale on its side and rolls it to a new location. They set the scale up against the wall and leave it. Then someone else comes by and knocks the scale platform over.

This can be a problem if precautions are not taken into consideration. Knocking over a scale can damage a load cell, bend or break a foot, and lead to down time without a scale.

Drum Scale Final Thoughts

We hope this article on 55 Gallon Drum Scales Buying Advice has helped you better understand the overall drum scale market. In our opinion, if you can afford it, a drum scale from a scale manufacturer like Rice Lake is a better choice for industrial applications than some of the low cost options in the marketplace which use really cheap components, especially when it comes to load cells and summing boards. The Rice Lake version is generally more consistent, accurate, and serviceable with shear beam load cells that can actually be replaced if necessary.

To Order or Request a Quote

Please contact our sales department if you need any assistance or quotes on any of our products. 

Heat Resistant Crane Scales

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Why do I need a heat resistant crane scale? 

Operations regularly exposed to extreme temperatures need equipment designed to withstand those extremes, including overhead weighing systems. Crane scales used in foundries or rubber processing facilities must be heat resistant to ensure proper operation and capture accurate weights.

heat resistant crane scale

What is a heat resistant crane scale?

Heat-resistant crane scales are constructed with heavy-duty enclosures to protect sensitive electronics. When preparing to purchase a heat-resistant crane scale, it’s important to consider the most extreme temperatures of your operation to ensure you select a scale designed to withstand those temperatures. Continue reading →

Pet Weighing Scales for Cats, Dogs, etc… are Ideal for Animal Health

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Odds are that you know someone, or it might even be you… that loves their pets so much that they take great pleasure in spoiling them with excessive treats and food scraps. However, too much poor quality food, paired with a lack of physical activity, can lead to persistent weight gain.

Pet Weight Scales Can Help with Obesity

With an increase in pet obesity, it is important to use accurate measuring equipment to effectively assist in treatment. Obesity is linked to a number of health concerns such as difficulty breathing, high blood pressure, and overweight pets also have a higher risk of tumors, cancer, heart disease and arthritis. The pet’s quality of life is negatively impacted as daily activities that require stamina or mobility, such as grooming, running or climbing stairs become a strain. Continue reading →

What Does a Counting Scale Do?

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When you’re seeking solutions for increased efficiency and productivity. A counting scale can be a great choice. But, what exactly does a counting scale do?

We’re going to take a look at what a counting scale actually does

First, let’s define what a counting scale is. Counting scales are used for counting the same items, like bolts for example. As for how to use a counting scale, when a group of identical items are placed on the platform of a parts counting scale, the scale can determine the average piece weight and the scale display shows how many pieces are on the platform. Consider the human effort involved to count small items like screws or washers.

With a counting scale, this task requires just a few seconds of time. This leads to highly accurate parts counting results. Compare this to counting parts out by hand, which is virtually guaranteed to include human error. Remember when you were a child sitting on the floor counting pennies? It took time, and then even more time when you lost count and had to start over again! Consider a counting scale the industrial solution for saving time while providing extremely efficient counting accuracy. Continue reading →

Should I Buy a 4×4 or 5×5 Scale for Weighing a Pallet?

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Today we attempt to answer the question that many a purchasing agent or warehouse manager has surely pondered….

Should I buy a 4×4 or a 5×5 floor scale?

Have you ever gone looking for a simple floor scale to weigh pallets? Only to be confused by whether you need a 5×5 or a 4×4 model. You’re not alone. There are many before you that have had the same question or something similar. It may have been about low price floor scales online or possibly about pallet scale calibration or scale troubleshooting. These are all platform scale subjects we have covered many times on this website. But getting back to the main point, should you buy a platform scale that’s 48″ x 48″ or 60″ x 60″?

This article is meant to provide a brief comparison while giving you confidence to make the correct decision when shopping for a standard industrial floor scale. While the 4×4 floor scale is actually the most common scale purchased, the 5×5 has a slight advantage of being able to, accommodate the full length of a pallet jack without fear of rolling off the back of the scale.

 

Which Scale is Better for me?  5×5 or 4×4

As we say, with truck scales, trucks aren’t getting any shorter, and pallets, by the same token, aren’t getting any smaller. So, if you have the room in your warehouse, then you should strongly consider the 5×5 pallet scale. With the exception of the additional surface area and the additional cost of the 5×5 floor scale. These two scales are identical from most manufacturers. One exception would be since the 4×4 floor scales are often mass produced, Manufacturers may try to use a thinner deck plate that is more widely available. This naturally makes the mass produced scale less durable and exposed to more deflection of the weighbridge and that could possibly lead to more inconsistent weights and possibly even a shorter lifespan. Although they are less common, another consideration that might make sense for you would be a 5×4 scale.

4x4 or 5x5 pallet scale

4 Foot Long Scale Ramp is Recommended for a Pallet Jack

And don’t forget if you’re looking to roll a pallet jack onto the scale, then you will need to have enough space for a ramp for pallet jack use. Most scale manufacturers recommend a four foot long ramp. So you will want to make sure you have the floor space for a 5×5 scale and a 5×4 ramp as well. You might also want to check out our entry about scale with a ramp vs. in floor scale.  

We hope this entry has helped you out. If you need assistance or you’re looking to get some product and price information, please fill out our RFQ form on our site or you can call us at (919) 776-7737.

Load Cell Wiring & Adjusting / Trimming / Summing Overview

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The Basics of Load Cell Wiring and Trimming Load cell wiring and trimming are critical to a weighing system’s accuracy and should always be performed by trained scale technicians.

However, general load cell wiring knowledge can help you better understand how your weighing system works and how potential errors occur.

Load cell cables typically have four or six wires. Both versions have positive and negative signal and excitation lines, though a six-wire cable also has positive and negative sense lines. Sense lines are linked to the sense connections of the system’s indicator, sometimes through a junction box, allowing the indicator to sense a load cell’s actual voltage. If there is a voltage drop between the indicator and load cell, the sense lines send that information to the indicator, which automatically adjusts voltage. This compensates for the loss of voltage or amplifies the return signal to compensate for loss of power to the load cell.

truck scale load cell

Load Cell Color Codes

Load cell wires are color coded to help ensure proper connections. Different load cell brands use different color codes, which is why there are load cell wiring guides available for scale technicians to use during installations.

Adjusting / Trimming / Summing Load Cells

Load cell trimming is sometimes called load cell summing because it involves tying or summing multiple load cell output signals together. This happens in a junction box, also known as a summing box, which sends one system signal to the weight indicator. It’s necessary to trim load cells in a multi-cell system when the weight distribution to each load cell isn’t equal. Click the following link for more about how a load cell works.

For example, in vessel loading processes, the presence of agitators or the type of material, such as powder, can affect how material and weight are distributed to each load cell. Additionally, it’s nearly impossible to make every load cell exactly alike. Tolerances in the manufacturing process allow for some variation in individual load cell specifications, which, if trimming isn’t applied, doesn’t allow for the accuracy necessary for most applications.

Signal trimming is the most common and popular type of load cell trimming because it is the easiest to use. Signal trimming is compatible with nearly all indicators and is relatively unaffected by temperature changes or excessive system vibrations. It involves adding a relatively high parallel resistance between the signal of each load cell, which creates a leakage path that diverts some of the available load cell signal away from the indicator. More load cell signal will be available to the indicator as parallel resistance increases.

Be sure to visit Central Carolina Scale.com often for all your weighing related needs.