Category Archives: Floor Scales

Top 4 Options To Consider on A Floor Scale

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We have been selling floor scales literally since the early 1980’s, so we know a thing or two about what floor scale options and features you might want to consider. Of course back in the 80’s almost all your floor scale choices were built in the United States. Fast forward to today and that is not always the case. So, what are the top four options to consider on a floor scale?  Let’s take a look. 

battery powered scale controller

Battery Powered Floor Scales

Most standard floor scales on the market come standard with standard 110 VAC power. And, most of the time this works fine. However, there are some situations where a battery powered industrial floor scale makes perfect sense. For example, what if you’re planning on the placing the scale in a shelter that is a hundred feet away from your main building? Or what if you’re weighing is a very important part of your business and you need to make sure your floor scale is operational even if the power goes out? Luckily in most cases it’s not very expensive to add battery power to a floor scale. However, please note that it is usually much easier to order the scale with a battery powered digital weight indicator as opposed to swapping indicators down the road.

floor scale with ramp

How are You Going to Weigh Items on the Floor Scale?

Before you purchase the floor scale, think about the flow of your warehouse. How are you going to weigh your pallets or whatever it is you are looking to weigh? Do you need to cut a hole in your floor and put in a pit frame and place the floor scale in the floor?  Or do you need to buy the floor scale and order a ramp at the same time?  If you choose a ramp, you will need to factor in how much overall floor space you will need since in most cases a ramp is going to be either 48″ x 48″ or 60″ x 48″ each. So once you have a 60″ x 60″ scale and then add a 60″ x 48″ ramp, you will need a lot of warehouse space to accommodate that.

Do You Need a Portable Floor Scale?

Maybe you already decided that you need battery power…. Do you need to take the next step and purchase a truly portable floor scale?  Now you can move just about any standard floor scale with a forklift.  But it does require you to be careful and not rip the homerun cable out of the scale display. However, today we have numerous ways to make a heavy duty industrial floor scale truly portable. We have portability carts, portability frames, and we have forklift channels that can be built into the side of the scale platform. Any of these scale options can make moving your floor scale around your warehouse much easier and safer.

5x5 pallet scale

Do You Need to Connect Your Floor Scale to a Printer or Your Computer?

Most floor scale customers are just looking to purchase a four by four foot square shaped scale for weighing pallets. However, quite a few customers could benefit from adding an additional element to their weighing. When you’re looking to purchase a floor scale why not go ahead and add a label printer to the scale?  With a label printer, you could easily add a label to everything that you weigh including things like the gross weight, maybe a tare weight and a Net weight.  You could even add the time and date of the weighment if you wanted to. Also, in a similar situation, you could also look into having your weighments be sent to your computer. We have several different ways to send scale weight data to your computer. 

Conclusion

I hope this entry has been helpful for you. These top four options to consider when purchasing a floor scale are based on many years of customers buying floor scales and listening to their requests and what they actually purchased. Of course, there are other things to consider as well like NTEP certification, industrial heavy duty versus light industrial, imported floor scale versus made in America, etc… but once you get those things figured out, these four options that I mentioned above are important to think about.

Please contact us with your questions or request for quote. You can call, email. or complete the RFQ form on our website.  Thanks for visiting our website and I hope that you will consider us for your next weighing equipment purchase. 

Precision Mastery: Top Grain Weighing Scales for Perfect Brewing Balance

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Looking to elevate your beer brewing with precise grain measurements? Grain weighing scales are pivotal to ensuring the consistency and quality of your brews. Whether you’re running a commercial brewery or home brewing, selecting the right scale will make all the difference. This article dives into the features and considerations necessary for picking the best grain scale to suit your needs.

  • Grain scales enhance brewing precision by ensuring accurate measurements of ingredients, which is crucial for maintaining consistent beer quality, taste, and alcohol content across batches.

  • The selection of the right grain scale involves considering factors such as the brewery’s size, weight capacity and durability needs, with features like stainless steel components, tare function, and IP66 rating or higher for cleanliness and ease of maintenance.

  • Advancements in grain weighing technology, like digital scales with high precision and integration capabilities, support brewing efficiency, consistency, and help in scaling production while minimizing human error and labor.

The Essential Role of Grain Scales in Brewing

 

Brewing equipment including grain scales

The craft of brewing is akin to the delicate artistry of a symphony orchestra’s conductor, pivotal though often out of sight. In this intricate ensemble, scales designed for measuring grain function as virtuosos in ensuring exactitude within beer recipes. These instruments are vital for consistency, certifying that each new batch mirrors the exceptional taste and maintains the alcohol level anticipated by consumers—elements central to defining both character and standard.

In facilitating this meticulous process, digital scales have become transformative tools. They work by converting pressure applied on a load cell into an electrical signal which then manifests as an accurate digital display. This advancement permits unfailing measurement of every component—from grains to hops—fortifying each brew with uniformity in quality that enthusiasts have come to expect with every pour.

Precision Meets Practicality

In the beer brewing industry, precision in weight measurement trumps volume. This ensures that varying factors such as ingredient shape, density, and temperature do not compromise flavor or recipe exactitude. Grain scales step up to be the ideal solution here due to their many benefits.

  • They yield more precise measurements than those based on volume.

  • Their expansive plate comfortably supports grain containers.

  • The digital display remains visible for easy reading while blending functionality with accuracy.

The use of a grain scale can substantially refine your brewery operation and lead to consistent, flavorful outcomes.

These scales empower brewers with the capability to craft exceptional beers effortlessly. A straightforward dial allows them accurate weighing of grains so they’re prepared to concoct the perfect brew. Thanks to their ease of cleaning and stainless steel weighing surface, these scales seamlessly integrate into any brewery’s setup, whether it aims high volumes or operates at a modest scale.

The Tare Function Advantage

The tare function on scales provides many benefits, especially for brewers who require precise and immediate weighing during the brewing process. This handy feature allows for the container’s weight to be subtracted so that only the net weight of the grain or other ingredients is measured. Such accuracy is essential not just for crafting original recipes, but also when making incremental additions or modifications.

Grain scales equipped with a tare function greatly streamline production by allowing bulk materials to be weighed without including the weight of their containers in measurements. Effectively acting as an invisible helper, this function ensures simplicity throughout brewing operations while guaranteeing that ingredient measurements are both accurate and focused solely on their actual weights.

Selecting the Right Grain Scale for Your Brewery

THBC Tank Scale Load Cells for placing under the tank legs

Choosing an ideal grain scale is as crucial as selecting the finest specialty grains for your brewing process. The chosen scale needs to be in sync with the production scope and size of your brewery. Smaller operations like home or microbreweries may opt for precision balances tailored to minor ingredients, alongside bench or floor scales suited for heftier batches. Meanwhile, larger-scale breweries typically require robust platform scales or tank scale load cells that accommodate extensive batch sizes and fulfill shipping demands. Continue reading →

Scales for Chemical Processors: Enhancing Efficiency and Safety in Chemical Weighing

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The chemical processing industry plays a pivotal role in manufacturing a wide array of consumer and industrial products. From organic alcohols and petrochemicals to industrial acids, catalysts, compounds, pigments, paints, and other inorganic substances, chemical processors encounter a diverse range of hazardous materials. Ensuring the safety and accuracy of these processes is crucial for both human well-being and product quality.

One of the fundamental aspects of chemical processing is weighing equipment, which demands exceptional precision, reliability, and resistance to harsh chemicals and environments. In this article, we explore the significance of scales for chemical processors and how they enhance efficiency and safety in the chemical industry.

The Importance of Corrosion-Resistant Weighing Equipment

Chemical substances used in the processing industry can be highly corrosive, leading to the degradation of materials over time. Standard weighing equipment might not withstand the aggressive nature of these chemicals, resulting in equipment malfunction, measurement inaccuracies, and potential safety hazards. Therefore, chemical processors require specialized corrosion-resistant weighing equipment to maintain the integrity of their operations.

weight indicator

Meeting Industry Demands: A Focus on Reliability

Reliability is the backbone of any industrial process, and the chemical processing industry is no exception. The selection of appropriate weighing equipment plays a pivotal role in ensuring that processes run smoothly and efficiently. Corrosion-resistant scales, made from materials like stainless steel and other durable alloys, offer a reliable weighing solution that can withstand exposure to a variety of harsh chemicals. These scales are designed to resist rust, oxidation, and chemical attacks, prolonging their lifespan and maintaining accuracy over time.

Accurate Measurements for Quality Control

Quality control is a critical aspect of chemical processing. Accurate measurements are essential to ensure that the final products meet specific standards and exhibit consistent quality. Corrosion-resistant scales provide precise measurements, allowing chemical processors to monitor the composition of their products and make necessary adjustments to achieve the desired outcomes. This level of precision is particularly important for applications where even slight variations in chemical ratios can significantly impact the final product’s properties.

Ensuring Operator Safety

The chemical processing environment can be hazardous for operators and technicians. Exposure to corrosive chemicals and harsh substances can pose serious health risks. By investing in intrinsically safe weighing equipment, chemical processors can minimize the chances of equipment failure and subsequent chemical spills or accidents. Additionally, these scales often come equipped with advanced safety features, such as overload protection and anti-slip platforms, to further enhance operator safety during the weighing process.

cardinal scale thbc brewery tank scales

Scales for Chemical Processors

From organic alcohols and petrochemicals to industrial acids, catalysts, compounds, pigments, paints and other inorganic substances, the chemical processing industry is composed of a broad range of consumer and industrial products. To optimize chemical manufacturing and maximize chemical material handling efficiency, we offer heavy-duty weighing solutions for hostile materials and hazardous environments.

During chemical reactions and refining, exact measurements are crucial. Chemical vessels—from tabletop beakers to industrial drums and tanks—require special corrosion-resistant material to withstand the chemicals’ hazardous properties. Weighing equipment used in these processes also needs to stand up to harsh chemicals and environments.

The SURVIVOR® RL2100 HE weigh module kit is ideal for medium and heavy-capacity hostile environments found in chemical blending and batching applications. Heavy capacity kits include all stainless steel compression mounts and weld-sealed, double-ended beam load cells. The JB4SS NEMA Type 4X stainless steel junction box and 25-foot hostile environment load cell cable complete the kit.

The Rice Lake RoughDeck® HE hostile environment floor scale is specifically designed for corrosion resistance and longevity in harsh chemical and washdown environments. Constructed from stainless steel and incorporating stainless steel, IP67 weld-sealed load cells, the RoughDeck HE is ideal for chemical material processing and handling.

Choosing the Right Scale for Specific Applications

Different chemical processes have varying requirements when it comes to weighing equipment. Some applications might require high-precision analytical balances, while others demand heavy-duty industrial scales for bulk weighing. The chemical processing industry encompasses a wide range of products, each with unique properties and handling considerations.

For instance, in laboratories and research facilities, analytical balances with high precision and sensitivity are essential for accurately measuring small quantities of chemicals. On the other hand, industries dealing with large volumes of chemicals might rely on robust floor scales or tank scales to handle bulk weighing. The diversity of applications calls for a comprehensive range of scales tailored to the specific needs of chemical processors.

Innovations in Weighing Technology

As the chemical processing industry continues to evolve, so does the technology behind weighing equipment. Manufacturers are continuously innovating to meet the increasing demands of the industry. New developments include advancements in load cell technology, digital signal processing, and connectivity options. Cloud-based data storage and integration with IoT (Internet of Things) platforms enable real-time monitoring of weighing processes, allowing for quick decision-making and improved traceability.

Scales for chemical processors are an integral part of the chemical processing industry. With their corrosion-resistant properties and precision weighing capabilities, these scales contribute significantly to the efficiency, safety, and quality control of chemical processes. By investing in reliable and accurate weighing equipment, chemical processors can optimize their operations, ensure compliance with safety standards, and produce high-quality products that cater to the diverse needs of consumers and industries alike. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more sophisticated weighing solutions to further revolutionize the chemical processing landscape.

All You Want to Know About a Pallet Scale

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In today’s entry we focus on pallet scales and discuss some of the most popular questions that we receive regarding these items. One challenge that sometimes exists with pallet scales is the naming of the actual scale. 

Customers refer to them as everything from pallet scales to floor scales to platform scales to warehouse scales. They are even called freight scales or shipping scales by some customers. And sometimes customers refer to a pallet jack scale as a pallet scale.  So it can be confusing for both the customer and the scale technician!

What is a pallet scale?

A pallet scale is usually defined as a platform scale that is large enough to weigh a standard wooden pallet.  The size is normally 48″ x 48″ approximately.  The capacity is usually 5000 pounds. 

4x4 or 5x5 pallet scale

Are pallet scales accurate?

Yes a pallet scale is accurate. A standard industrial style pallet scale is accurate to within 0.1 of one percent. So if you were to place 5000 pounds on the scale, the weighing instrument would display a reading of +/- 5 pounds from 5000.  This is sometimes related to the question, how accurate is a floor scale?  It basically means the same thing.

How much does a freight scale cost?

A typical “freight scale can cost anywhere from $900 to $2800. That’s a wide range but it often depends on who manufacturers the weight indicator and who manufacturers the scale platform. If you’re using a freight scale to weigh an occasional pallet, a lower priced scale might work fine. However, if you’re weighing heavy totes all day long, we recommend you purchase one of the heavy duty scales that are more expensive.

How do you use a pallet scale?

Normally the way that customers use a pallet scale is by simply driving their forklift to the pallet scale and gently setting the pallet down on the scale platform. The pallet weight will then display on the scale controller.

How do you calibrate a pallet scale?

To calibrate a pallet scale you will need to have at least 10% of the capacity available in test weights, a copy of the digital weight indicator technical manual, and ideally a licensed scale technician.

What type of scales are the most accurate?

The most accurate scales are typically laboratory balances and pharmaceutical grade scales. See our balances section on our website or our Sartorius  & Minebea Intec products.

 

How much does 1 empty pallet weigh?

One empty wooden pallet typically weighs around 45 pounds but that number can vary greatly depending how sturdy the pallet was constructed. This sometimes referred to as how much does a 4 foot pallet weigh? This basically is the same question, just re-worded.

Can you use a regular scale as a shipping scale?

You can use a regular scale as a shipping scale as long as the item you’re weighing is able to be accurately weighed. You really need to define what a “regular scale” actually means. If you’re weighing a box that weighs 20 pounds and your “regular scale” only has a 10 pound capacity, that will not work.  Also if you’re weighing a box that is odd shaped like say an umbrella for example, that could possibly hang over the side of a small “regular scale” and touch the desk. If that happens, your weight of the package won’t be correct.

nci shipping scales by Avery Weigh-Tronix

What kind of scale do I need to weigh packages?

The scale you need to weigh packages ideally can be interfaced to your shipping software. If that happens, it will make shipping easier for you because the weight will populate automatically right into the software. You also need to look at the capacity and platform dimensions to make sure those match up with what you are consistently weighing. Most standard shipping scales that we offer have a 150 pound capacity and the platform dimensions are around 12″ x 14″.  Other sizes and capacities are available.  Same is true with pallet scales.  4×4 5000 pound is the standard but we have all kinds of freight scales available from 3×3 to 4×6 to 5×7.  

high quality scales and weighing equipment

Can I use any scale for shipping?

You can use just about any scale you want for shipping but it often makes more sense to use the correct scale for your application. If you’re shipping pallets via LTL truck, you need to use a 5×5 pallet scale with 5000 pound capacity. If you’re shipping boxes for UPS or FedEx pickup then you need to use a shipping scale that connects to your shipping software like UPS Worldship for example. You’re also going to have to come up with a reliable way to measure the dimensions of the box or pallet as well.

Which pallet scale do you recommend?

The pallet scale that we recommend for you will vary depending on your weighing application. For example, if you are a metal recycling center and you are using your platform scales on a regular basis and putting large amounts of weight on the scale, then we recommend a heavy duty pallet scale. Rice Lake Roughdeck, B-Tek Clydesdale would be a couple of the better choices.  

We hope this entry about pallet scales and shipping and freight weighing has been helpful. Many times customers contact us and they kind of know what they’re looking for but they just need a slight push in the proper direction.  To discuss your application with us call (919) 776-7737 or fill out the RFQ form on our website.

Recycling: A Sustainable Pathway to a Thriving Society

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In a world where environmental consciousness is becoming increasingly critical, recycling stands out as one of the most effective tools in our arsenal to combat the escalating challenges of waste management and resource depletion.

Recycling not only helps conserve natural resources but also has far-reaching benefits for our society, economy, and the environment. This article explores the multifaceted advantages of recycling and highlights the pivotal role that scales play in this process, weighing collected materials and enabling efficient transportation for a more sustainable future.

  1. Resource Conservation

One of the primary benefits of recycling is resource conservation. By reusing and repurposing materials, we can reduce our dependence on virgin resources. Many valuable resources, such as metals, plastics, and paper, can be recycled multiple times, lessening the need for extensive mining, drilling, and deforestation. Scales play a crucial role in recycling by accurately weighing the collected materials either on a floor scale or a truck scale. By knowing the precise weight, industries can better manage their resources, plan for production, and contribute to a circular economy.

floor scale

  1. Energy Savings

Recycling offers substantial energy savings compared to extracting raw materials. The energy required to process recycled materials is significantly lower than that needed to produce products from scratch. For example, recycling aluminum consumes only about 5% of the energy required for primary production. By using scales to monitor incoming materials and outgoing products, recycling facilities can optimize their energy consumption and identify areas for further efficiency improvements.

  1. Waste Reduction and Landfill Diversion

As the global population grows, so does the waste generated. Recycling helps divert a substantial amount of waste from landfills, reducing the burden on these sites and mitigating the associated environmental and health risks. By efficiently weighing the collected materials, municipalities can measure their recycling success, set targets for waste diversion, and develop waste management strategies that promote recycling and resource recovery.

  1. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction

Recycling plays a pivotal role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. When materials are discarded in landfills, they undergo anaerobic decomposition, releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas. By recycling materials instead, we can significantly decrease methane emissions and contribute to mitigating climate change. 

  1. Job Creation and Economic Growth

Recycling creates a multitude of job opportunities across various sectors, from collection and sorting to processing and manufacturing. The recycling industry not only fosters local employment but also contributes to economic growth. Moreover, by reducing waste management costs and conserving resources, recycling can lead to cost savings for industries, promoting competitiveness and overall economic resilience.

steel deck above ground truck scale

  1. Promoting Sustainable Consumption

Recycling is not solely a responsibility of waste management facilities. It also plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable consumption patterns. As people become more aware of the importance of recycling, they are encouraged to make eco-conscious choices, such as opting for products with recyclable packaging. 

  1. Preserving Biodiversity

By reducing the demand for raw materials and minimizing waste disposal in landfills, recycling helps preserve natural habitats and protect biodiversity. Deforestation for resource extraction and landfill expansion can have devastating effects on ecosystems. 

  1. Community Engagement and Environmental Education

Recycling initiatives often foster community engagement and environmental education. As people participate in recycling programs, they become more connected to sustainable practices and take pride in their efforts to protect the environment. 

Recycling is a powerful mechanism that benefits society in multifaceted ways. It conserves resources, reduces energy consumption, diverts waste from landfills, curbs greenhouse gas emissions, stimulates economic growth, and preserves biodiversity. Scales play a vital role in weighing collected materials, usually on either a floor scale or a truck scale. By embracing recycling as a collective responsibility, we can create a more sustainable world for generations to come, where environmental consciousness and social well-being coexist in harmony.

Challenges Confronting Food Processing Companies: Navigating Quality & Weighing Accuracy

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Food processing companies play a crucial role in ensuring the supply of safe, nutritious, and consistent food products to consumers. However, this industry faces a myriad of challenges that demand constant innovation and diligent attention to overcome. Among the most pressing issues are maintaining product quality and achieving precise weighing accuracy in daily production. In this article, we delve into these challenges and explore how companies are navigating them to meet consumer expectations and regulatory standards.

1. Quality Assurance and Food Safety

One of the paramount concerns for food processing companies is maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety for their products. In an era of heightened awareness about foodborne illnesses and allergens, consumers demand transparency and accountability from manufacturers. Ensuring quality begins with sourcing top-grade raw materials and implementing stringent quality control protocols throughout the processing chain. Companies must adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), and other regulatory frameworks to minimize contamination risks.

Advanced technologies such as blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) applications are now being integrated to enhance traceability, allowing companies to identify and rectify potential issues swiftly. This level of transparency and proactive approach to quality assurance instills consumer confidence and cultivates brand loyalty.

2. Weighing Accuracy and Product Consistency

Accurate weighing is a fundamental aspect of food processing, directly impacting product consistency and cost management. Errors in weighing can lead to variations in product composition, affecting taste, texture, and appearance, which is unacceptable in a competitive market. Moreover, inaccuracies can result in overproduction or underproduction, leading to wastage or stock shortages, respectively.

check weighing

To tackle this challenge, companies invest in advanced weighing technologies such as more automated weighing systems, over & under check weighing, longer lasting accurate load cells, and precision portion scales built to withstand the food processing environment. Regular calibration and scale maintenance of these instruments are crucial to ensure their accuracy and reliability. Additionally, implementing Statistical Process Control (SPC) methods enables real-time monitoring and data analysis to identify potential deviations and maintain optimal performance.

3. Optimal Utilization of Weight Scales

Food processing companies often operate on tight profit margins, making efficient utilization of resources paramount. Electronic scales play a central role in production, and their performance directly impacts productivity and cost-effectiveness. The challenge lies in selecting the right type of weight scale for specific applications and ensuring its proper maintenance.

Different locations in the facility may require different types of weight scales, ranging from bench scales for small portions to heavy-duty stainless steel floor scales for bulk quantities. Integration of programmable scale controllers can streamline production and reduce human error. Regular training of personnel in operating and maintaining weight scales is essential to ensure their longevity and reliability.

Doran 2200CW stainless steel checkweigher

4. Compliance with Evolving Regulations

The food processing industry operates in a dynamic regulatory environment, with standards and guidelines subject to change. Companies must keep pace with these evolving regulations to avoid compliance issues and legal repercussions. Non-compliance not only jeopardizes consumer safety but also undermines brand reputation and market position.

Staying compliant requires continuous monitoring of regulatory updates, participation in industry associations, and investing in workforce training programs. Collaborating with regulatory experts can provide valuable insights into current and upcoming requirements, helping companies stay ahead of the curve.

5. Sustainability and Environmental Impact

As the world becomes increasingly environmentally conscious, food processing companies are under pressure to reduce their environmental footprint. This entails minimizing food waste, optimizing energy consumption, and adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions. Moreover, companies are exploring alternative sourcing of raw materials and engaging in responsible sourcing practices to support sustainability initiatives.

Final Thoughts:

The food processing industry faces a multitude of challenges, with maintaining quality and improving weighing accuracy, while improving the durability of the weighing equipment. By embracing cutting-edge technologies, adhering to best practices, and staying attuned to regulatory changes, companies can surmount these hurdles and continue to deliver safe, high-quality food products while safeguarding the environment and consumer trust. Be sure to contact our sales department (919) 776-7737 for more info on our food processing scales and weighing equipment that we offer.

The Weighty Issue of Waste: Scaling Up Solid Waste Management

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Garbage and waste have long been persistent challenges for modern societies. As our communities continue to grow, so does the amount of waste we generate. Proper management and transportation of solid waste are crucial for maintaining environmental sustainability and public health. One of the key tools in this endeavor is the use of scales to accurately measure and transport waste efficiently. In this article, we will delve into the world of garbage, waste management, and the importance of utilizing scales to tackle this ever-expanding issue.

The Growing Mountain of Waste

Waste is an inevitable byproduct of human activity. From household waste to industrial and commercial refuse, we generate vast amounts of garbage daily. Rapid urbanization, population growth, and consumerism have intensified this problem. This mounting waste poses significant threats to the environment, including pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change.

Proper Waste Management: The Need of the Hour

To tackle the waste crisis, efficient waste management practices are essential. Effective waste management encompasses collection, transportation, recycling, and disposal. Without a well-structured waste management system, our communities risk being overwhelmed by the waste they produce.

digital truck scales

Scales: Pivotal Instruments in Waste Transportation

When it comes to the transportation of solid waste, scales play a pivotal role. Accurate weighing of waste is crucial for several reasons:

Cost Efficiency: Billing and charging waste generators based on the weight of their waste ensures fair and accurate billing. This incentivizes waste reduction and recycling, leading to cost savings in the long run.

Resource Allocation: Knowing the precise weight of waste aids in appropriate resource allocation for waste transportation and disposal, preventing overloading and reducing the carbon footprint.

Compliance and Regulation: Scales help waste management authorities comply with environmental regulations, ensuring that waste is disposed of or recycled responsibly.

Data for Decision-Making: Reliable waste weight data assists in making informed decisions for waste management policies and practices.

Scales in Waste Transportation: The Process

Waste transportation involves various stages, and scales come into play at several of these points:

Collection: At the collection stage, residential, commercial, and industrial waste needs to be accurately weighed before loading onto waste collection vehicles. Scales installed at waste transfer stations or designated collection points provide accurate measurements.

Transfer Stations: Waste transfer stations act as hubs for consolidating waste from multiple collection points. Scales at these facilities measure the waste before transferring it to larger vehicles, such as garbage trucks or waste haulers.

Landfills and Recycling Centers: At the final destination, be it a landfill or a recycling center, scales are crucial for weighing incoming waste. This data helps landfill operators or recycling facilities to track waste volumes, manage capacity, and plan future operations effectively.

high quality scales and weighing equipment

Innovations in Waste Management Scales

The waste management industry has witnessed notable advancements in weighing technology to improve efficiency and accuracy:

On-board Weighing Systems: Some waste collection vehicles now come equipped with on-board weighing systems that provide real-time weight data. These systems help optimize collection routes, prevent overloading, and reduce wear and tear on vehicles.

Accurate Hi Tech Scales: Integration of scales with smart technologies and data management systems has revolutionized waste management. These scales provide real time info about their current status and if any errors exist. 

Portable Weighing Solutions: Portable scales are invaluable for weighing waste in areas where permanent installations are not feasible, such as construction sites or temporary waste collection points.

As the global waste crisis escalates, the importance of accurate waste management and transportation becomes even more apparent. Scales serve as indispensable tools in this endeavor, helping ensure efficient waste collection, fair billing, and compliance with environmental regulations.

By integrating smart technologies and innovative solutions, we can work towards a more sustainable future where waste is seen not as a burden, but as a resource to be managed wisely and responsibly. Through collaborative efforts between governments, waste management authorities, industries, and individuals, we can scale up our efforts to combat waste and protect the environment for generations to come.

Unboxing the Challenges: Navigating the Dimensions of Shipping Boxes and Pallets

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In today’s globalized world, shipping boxes and pallets have become an essential part of our daily lives. From online shopping to business logistics, these containers play a crucial role in moving goods from one place to another.

However, as convenience and efficiency have increased, so have the challenges faced by customers when dealing with freight companies. One of the most significant challenges is the shift towards using dimensional measurements in addition to weight when determining shipping costs. This article explores the various hurdles customers face daily, and how they can navigate through them to optimize their shipping experiences.

nci shipping scales by Avery Weigh-Tronix

The Dimensional Dilemma

Traditionally, shipping costs were determined solely based on weight. You placed your box on your Mettler Toledo BC60 and the weight displayed in your shipping software. It was easy! 

However, with advancements in technology and a growing focus on sustainability, freight companies have moved towards utilizing dimensional weight (DIM weight) calculations. DIM weight considers not only the actual weight of the package but also its dimensions to estimate the space it occupies in the carrier’s vehicle or aircraft. This means that even if a package is relatively light, its large size might result in higher shipping charges due to the wasted space it takes up in transit.

Customers are often caught unaware by this shift and may receive unexpected bills if they fail to measure their boxes accurately or overlook the significance of the dimensions. Furthermore, when shipping multiple items together, the combined dimensions can impact the total shipping cost significantly. If you’re shipping a decent amount of boxes or pallets each day, you’re going to get tired of taking out the tape measure or the yard stick.  You need a more automated solution for obtaining your dim weights.  

Automated Solutions

To ease the burden of manually calculating DIM weight and reduce the chances of human error, customers can leverage automation. Integrating shipping software that incorporates dimension measuring capabilities can streamline the entire process, providing real-time calculations and ensuring accurate billing.

Automated solutions can also help customers compare shipping rates between different carriers, allowing them to choose the most cost-effective option for their specific needs. This level of efficiency and transparency not only enhances customer satisfaction but also boosts overall productivity.

dim weight scale

How Dimensioners Benefit Shippers

When shippers use an automatic dimensioner, they experience fewer invoice corrections, which saves time and money. Shippers can also use a Transportation Management System (TMS) to provide an eBOL with accurate data from a Legal for Trade dimensioner and scale save on freight rates. A TMS offers the carrier data transparency before pickup to help with load planning.

Accurate weights and dimensions are essential to ensure your invoice will match the original carrier quote. Because LTL carriers also rely on Legal for Trade measurement systems, using freight dimensioning systems in your facility can help everyone ensure correct freight classification.

By choosing a dimensioning system that includes high-resolution cameras, you will have images of freight as it leaves your facility, documenting its condition and verifying it was properly packaged and wrapped. This will allow you to hold your LTL carriers accountable for any damage to your freight.

Rice Lake Weighing Systems developed iDimension® Flex Series automatic dimensioners to help shippers prevent invoice corrections. A Legal for Trade dimensioner and scale is the best way to safeguard against reweighs, reclasses and unexpected chargebacks from LTL carriers. The economical iDimension Flex is designed for shippers—it is affordable, easy to install and maintain, and has a full integration toolkit to connect with your network.

The iDimension Flex is designed to fit nearly any shipping environment. It can be installed as a free-standing unit or suspended from the ceiling and mounted over a shipping scale, conveyor or pallet stretch wrapper. With the iDimension Flex, you can easily organize your shipping department to weigh, wrap and dimension freight in one efficient step. The iDimension Flex accurately measures your outbound freight, simplifying eBOL processes and increasing the trust LTL carriers have in your measurements.

Accurate Measuring – A Necessity

To overcome the dimensional measurement challenge, customers must prioritize accurate measuring of their shipping boxes and pallets. Investing in a reliable measuring tool, such as a tape measure or a dimensional weight calculator, can save them from unnecessary expenses. It is vital to measure the length, width, and height of the package, ensuring accuracy to the nearest inch or centimeter.

Some freight companies may also apply additional surcharges if the dimensions are not provided correctly, leading to further complications and financial strain for the customer. Hence, attentiveness to accurate measurements is crucial in avoiding billing disputes and promoting transparent shipping practices.

Packaging Optimization

Aside from accurate measurements, optimizing packaging is another way to navigate the challenges presented by dimensional weight. Selecting appropriate box sizes, eliminating excess void fill materials, and securing the contents efficiently can significantly impact DIM weight calculations.

Customers should consider using custom-sized boxes that snugly fit their products, reducing the amount of empty space within the package. Additionally, choosing lightweight but sturdy packaging materials can also help strike a balance between protection and weight reduction.

This is something we have worked on over the past few years and it has absolutely saved us (and our customers) money.

Collaboration and Communication

To enhance the shipping process, customers must establish clear lines of communication with their freight companies. Inquiring about their dimensional weight calculation methods, applicable surcharges, and any other cost-related factors will enable customers to make informed decisions and prevent unwelcome surprises in the final billing.

Additionally, maintaining open channels of communication allows customers to negotiate better shipping terms, especially for regular or bulk shipments. Building a healthy partnership with the freight company can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes, fostering a smoother shipping experience overall.

Education and Awareness

An essential aspect of overcoming the challenges of shipping boxes and pallets is fostering education and awareness among customers. Many individuals and businesses are still unfamiliar with the concept of DIM weight and its implications. Providing relevant information and resources on websites, customer portals, and through customer service representatives can empower clients to take the necessary steps to optimize their shipping processes.

Freight companies can also conduct workshops, webinars, or tutorials to educate their customers on best practices for measuring, packing, and shipping items. In the long run, informed customers will not only benefit from cost savings but also contribute to sustainability efforts by reducing the carbon footprint associated with shipping inefficiencies.

As a society, we probably ship more boxes and pallets than ever before. It’s important to find various ways to reduce the cost of moving these boxes from point A to point B.  By embracing accurate measuring techniques, optimizing packaging, fostering communication, educating themselves, and adopting automated solutions, customers can navigate these challenges effectively. In doing so, they can not only reduce unnecessary expenses and billing disputes but also contribute to a more sustainable and efficient shipping industry.

The Peril of Monopoly: The Dangers of Choosing an Industrial Scale Provider who Basically Only Recommends One Scale Brand

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In the world of industry and commerce, precision measurement and weighing accuracy are paramount, making industrial scales and laboratory balances an indispensable tool in many industries. When it comes to selecting a reliable provider for your weighing needs, many local businesses seek convenience by opting for a one-stop-shop that sells scales and offers calibration and service support. And, often folks search for old and familiar scale brand they may have heard of years ago.

However, one mistake that some customers make involves choosing a scale supplier who essentially is only offering one brand of scale 99% of the time. This cozy relationship with a sole brand may appear convenient on the surface, but it comes with a range of potential pitfalls that businesses should be wary of. Do the terms Protected Territories, Limited Competition, and High Prices sound familiar? 

This article explores the perils of such an arrangement and underscores the importance of keeping an open mind when it comes to selecting a local industrial scale provider in your area.

1. Limited Product Options:

Relying on an industrial scale provider who predominantly offers one brand of scales leaves your business with limited options. Each industry has unique requirements, and no single scale brand can cater to the diverse needs of every enterprise. By restricting yourself to just one brand of scales, you risk overlooking better-suited alternatives that might provide more accurate readings, advanced features, or even more cost-effectiveness. Opting to work with a local scale company with a wide array of scale options ensures you can find the perfect match for your business requirements.

2. Bias and Unreliable Recommendations:

The inherent conflict of interest in exclusively recommending one scale brand raises questions about the objectivity and credibility of the provider’s suggestions. Is the recommendation driven by the best interest of the client, or is it motivated by financial gains or meeting sales quotas from promoting a particular brand? A biased recommendation might lead to investing in scales that are not truly suitable for your operations, leading to suboptimal performance, increased maintenance costs, or even safety hazards.

3. Lack of Customization and Product Flexibility:

Industrial operations vary widely, and a one-size-fits-all approach to scales simply won’t suffice. By relying on a local scale provider who predominantly deals with one brand, you may face limitations in customizing the scales to match your specific requirements. Customization could involve factors such as scale capacity, platform size, and specialized features, which are critical to ensuring optimal performance and efficient workflow.

There could be situations where your number one scale brand might be a good choice for the scale platform but the scale controller might be a different brand. Is the scale company willing to use another brand?

4. Inadequate Support and Service:

Calibration and regular maintenance are vital to the accurate functioning of industrial scales. Choosing a local scale sales and service provider that primarily deals with one scale brand may limit your access to reliable service and support. They may lack the expertise to handle other scale brands effectively, resulting in subpar calibration or repairs. In contrast, a diversified local scale provider (like Central Carolina Scale) is more likely to have a skilled team capable of servicing a wide range of scale models efficiently.

5. Competitive Pricing:

Monopoly situations can also sometimes lead to inflated pricing. With limited options and no direct competition, the scale provider may not have any incentives to offer competitive prices. As a result, your business might end up paying more for a scale that could be obtained at a better price elsewhere.

high quality scales and weighing equipment

Final Thoughts:

Choosing an industrial scale provider is a crucial decision that directly impacts the efficiency and accuracy of your operations. While the convenience of an all-in-one provider might be tempting, the dangers of opting for one who predominantly deals with a single brand of scales cannot be ignored. The limited product options, protected territories limiting competition, biased recommendations, and inadequate support could all hamper your business’s growth and success.

Instead, we recommend working with a scale company like ours. At Central Carolina Scale, we have good working relationships with many different scale manufacturers. If a customer approaches us and asks for a product or solution for their weighing, we are going to base our product recommendations off things like past success, proven products, overall value, etc… We typically provide multiple reputable choices to customers to consider.

In our experience, rarely is one scale manufacturer the best choice for everything. Some manufacturer really good truck scales. Some manufacturer easy to use digital weight indicators. In fact, we often provide scale systems to customers that have one brand of scale platform and a different brand of digital weight indicator. Most of the time we do that because we’re trying to provide the customer with the best overall scale equipment for their needs.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance and Calibration for Industrial Floor Scales

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Industrial floor scales are essential tools in various industries and environments. From warehouse and manufacturing environments to metal recycling and food banks… Accurate weight measurements are critical for safety, compliance, and operational efficiency. However, like any other equipment, industrial floor scales require regular maintenance and calibration to ensure their accuracy and reliability. Here are some reasons why…

Compliance with Regulations

In most industries, there are regulatory requirements that mandate the use of calibrated and well-maintained weighing equipment. In commercial applications, scales need to be tested by the state and be within tolerance.  Compliance with such regulations is critical.

Accurate Weighing Results

Industrial floor scales are designed to measure the weight of heavy or bulky items accurately. However, over time, factors such as wear and tear, exposure to environmental factors, and shock or impact can affect their accuracy. Regular testing, maintenance and calibration can help identify and correct such issues, ensuring that the scales provide accurate weighing results consistently.

Safety in the Workplace

Industrial floor scales are often used to weigh large and heavy items, such as pallets, drums, or machinery components. If the scales are not calibrated or maintained correctly, they can produce inaccurate results that could lead to safety hazards. For example, if an employee overloads a pallet because the scale shows an incorrect weight, it could result in accidents or injuries. Regular maintenance and calibration help ensure that the scales are working correctly and prevent such safety hazards.

Industrial Floor Scale with Ramp

Cost Savings

Regular maintenance and calibration of industrial floor scales can help prevent costly repairs or break downs in the near future. Small issues that are left unaddressed can lead to more significant problems that require more expensive repairs or even replacement of the equipment. By conducting regular maintenance and calibration, you can sometimes identify and correct small issues before they become more severe, saving your business money in the long run. For example, many times a small cut in a cable can be seen and either removed or fixed. Or, perhaps a load cell foot has been bent or damaged and can easily be replaced before it leads to inaccurate weights.

Improved Productivity

Industrial floor scales play a critical role in many warehouse and manufacturing operations, such as inventory management, quality control, and shipping and receiving. If the scales are not working correctly, it can lead to delays, errors, or inefficiencies that can affect productivity. Regular maintenance and calibration help ensure that the scales are working correctly and improve productivity.

Regular maintenance and calibration are essential for industrial floor scales. How frequent the scales are checked should be discussed with your trusted scale company. Often, the service intervals are based on how often the scales are used and how valuable the products being weighed actually are. If you need some assistance with buying a floor scale or with your floor scale repairs and calibration, please call us (919) 776-7737 or complete the RFQ form on our website.