Category Archives: General

Truck Scale Manufacturers You Need to Consider

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A truck scale is a rather large purchase for many businesses. In many cases, whether you choose a 70×11 legal for trade truck scale, or portable truck scales, or portable axle scales… Once these items are purchased and installed on a concrete foundation, it’s likely going to cost over $100,000 when it’s all said and done.

So, anytime that you invest that kind of money into a new truck scale, you would like to know as much as possible about the items and the companies who build the items. So, in today’s article we’re not going to answer questions like how much does a set of truck scales cost or how long should a truck scale last?  We’ve already answered those questions. Instead, we’re going to look at some of the top vehicle weighing scale factories in the U.S.

Who are the Top Truck Scale Manufacturers?

As we’ve established, truck scales are a relatively expensive purchase for most companies. So, you want to make sure that you make a smart buying decision.

We’ll discuss this later in more detail, but it’s also important to rely on your peers and your trusted local scale company too. For example, maybe you think that you have found the right scale, but it turns out that it actually has a load cell issue. Perhaps, it’s becoming difficult to source load cells for that scale or perhaps it’s something else.

More on the local scale company influence later….

rice lake truck scales

So, who are the best truck scale builders? In our opinion, the following scale manufacturers are the top companies in the business. And, this applies to all you fans of used truck scales too. 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 →

Floor Scale with Ramp VS. Floor Scale in a Pit

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Today, we’re going to talk about the advantages of buying a pallet scale with a ramp vs. installing a pallet scale into your concrete floor.

Maybe you would like a more portable floor scale that sits above ground with a ramp beside it. Or perhaps you would rather just have an in ground style floor scale and not have to deal with ramps.

We’re going to look at the advantages and disadvantages of both types of industrial scales, while helping you make a more informed buying decision.

A floor scale is a type of scale that can be used directly on the warehouse floor. A typical floor scale usually has a 4 inch height and the vast majority of platform scales are usually 4×4 or 5×5 dimensions. Great for weighing most pallets and in many situations, your scale company can ship your floor scales direct to you, either from the scale company or the scale manufacturer.

 

When buying a 5000lb floor scale these days, most folks tend to choose an above ground scale. If they plan on rolling a pallet jack onto the warehouse scale, they typically buy a ramp for this scale. This is generally the most cost effective weighing solution.

Basically, besides cost, there are two main reasons why you would choose one version of a industrial floor scale over the other. The #1 reason is the amount of space, the floor scale and any ramps would occupy and the #2 reason is the ease of loading products onto the scale.

Pit Type Floor Scale Advantages & Disadvantages

Several years ago, placing a floor scale into a pit was fairly common. This was mainly due to a couple of factors. Floor scales had taller profile heights and construction costs. So, putting it in a pit was less expensive. While today’s floor scales have a lower profile design, which usually eliminates the need for a pit. There are a few applications where a pit scale still makes sense.

For example, a company that needs a 4×4 floor scale with ramps on both sides, A typical ramp is 48 inches in length on each side. This type of floor scale setup will take up to 12 ft in length. That’s a lot of space that your scale and ramps would occupy. When the scale footprint needs to be smaller, putting scales into a pit might be the right decision when placing this scale into a pit. The ramps are not needed. This eliminates 4ft of ramping on each side of the scale.

Another reason for placing a floor scale into a pit is the ease of getting the product onto the scale. Because the scale is set in a pit, the transition from the floor surface to the scale is seamless. Imagine having to push a loaded pallet jack onto an above ground scale several times per day. Having a pit type scale makes this process much easier vs one with ramps.

Pallet Scale with Ramp

Floor Scale with Ramp Advantages & Disadvantages

Today’s floor scales are built to have a low profile height, usually around 4 inches. When space isn’t an issue, having a floor scale with ramps may make sense. Having a longer ramp makes loading products with a pallet jack much easier.

Another reason many people choose to use an above ground pallet scale with ramp is that this setup is fairly portable. It can be moved to different parts of a warehouse or factory if needed. In our example, we’ve been mentioning ramps. However, ramps aren’t required with an above ground floor scale. You can also drive your forklift to the scale and set pallets on the scale. So, standard pallet weighing while loading and unloading the scale with a forklift is the most portable and cost effective solution.

IMPORTANT POINT REGARDING SCALE REPLACEMENT

Another variable to consider, is the potential to outgrow the size of your in-ground floor scale. An above ground floor scale can be easily replaced — without needing to backfill a 4×4 or 5×5 hole in your concrete floor!

Hopefully this information helps you make the correct decision when deciding where to put your next floor scale. Be sure to contact our sales team for buying advice and product recommendations.  

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.

Truck Scale Basics & Terminology You Need to Know

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We’re going to try & help you understand all the truck scale terminology that you need to know. Especially if you’re new to truck scales.

So let’s say your business has decided to purchase a truck scale in order to determine accurate and reliable vehicle weight for your application. That’s great! Understanding fundamental truck scale basics and how a truck scale works will help you know which questions to ask your local scale distributor to ensure you purchase the truck scale style that fits your needs with the options and accessories that can enhance your application.

 

Whether monitoring a vehicle’s weight for safety guidelines or to complete business transactions, you should know what the info determined by a truck scale means to your business.

For example:

Gross weight is the total weight of the vehicle and loaded product.
Tare weight is the weight of only the vehicle.
Net weight is the weight of only the loaded product.

how accurate are truck scales

Today, most scales at solid waste facilities or recycling centers are installed with above ground or concrete pit foundations. Depending on state or regional requirements, scales can also be installed in a shallow pit, as opposed to the deep pit required by older mechanical scales. A pit installation requires less space than an above ground scale since longer approaches are generally required for above ground configurations. However, pit-styles require sump pumps and drains, and are generally more vulnerable to corrosion due to potential standing water.

The truck scale’s driving surface is called the weighbridge. Weighbridges are composed of steel or concrete decks, and are typically manufactured in modular designs that are connected together during installation.

weight indicator

The indicator, also called a controller, or terminal, can display basic weight functions, as well as serve as the command center for a weighing system with truck in & out programs to control the entire truck scale system, including any remote displays and ticket printers.

Load cells are vital to truck scale performance. There are various types of load cells, but they all basically have the same function—to accurately measure weight on the scale. How do load cells work, you may be asking?  All load cells take an analog measurement, and then that signal is converted to a digital output either at the load cell, junction box, or in the scale indicator. Load cells are typically constructed of steel and are integrated within the weighbridge, usually at the corners of each module.

A junction box properly manages multiple load cells. By matching the signal of each load cell and summing them into a signal that’s sent to the indicator, junction boxes equalize the system for accurate and reliable weight readouts.

Handwriting a ticket for each weighment is time consuming and tedious, and also leaves room for human error. Ticketing kiosks, scale data management software, and/or ticket printers eliminate those problems. Most states also require ticket printers and Remote Displays.

We’re going to wrap up our entry on truck scale basics and terminology.  I hope we made all this truck scale jargon a little easier to understand for those of you in the market for a truck scale. If you need some truck scale buying advice or scale recommendations, we are just a phone call or email away.  

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.