The Top 5 Washdown Scales You Should Consider For Food Processing Applications

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For this entry, we’re going to focus on food service or food prep environments where the scales need to be stainless steel and are washed off regularly.

In these environments it is essential to have a “waterproof scale” that can be hosed down with warm soapy water and cleaned to minimize operational downtime. When we discuss washdown bench scales we often use the IP ratings which you’ve probably heard of. Normally, the higher the rating the better the washdown capability. Same is true for washdown floor scales. 

So let’s go ahead and list our top 5 choices for water resistant scales. These choices are based on our past experience and manufacturer reputation. I also want to mention that it’s not just about the digital weight indicator. The load cell that is inside the scale platform is also a factor in the overall weighing and washdown performance as well. Ideally for washdown applications the load cell should be stainless steel and hermetically sealed. Some would even recommend hydrostatic cells for this type of environment.

cw-90x check weigh scale for commercial fishing

#1 Rice Lake CW90X

We listed the CW90X as the top choice but really it’s the Rice Lake lineup as an entire group. Made to withstand sharp knife-point contacts as well as contaminants and liquids, Rice Lake’s CW-90X features an amazingly tough piezo keypad. Its extra-strength material is the most durable in the industry, ensuring your scale will continue to work through any challenge.

Manufacturers with harsh production environments look for the IP69K rating to provide the highest level of protection available. The CW-90X uses a hermetically sealed load cell and stainless steel indicator, which have both earned IP69K rating, guaranteeing protection from repeated high temp/high pressure washdowns. Complete with 304 stainless steel construction, the CW-90X will help meet all of your HACCP and food industry requirements.

Rice Lake actually has several weight indicators that are now rated as IP69K including the 680 and 682 in addition to the CW90X. And, they also now have the 380 Synergy as well as the 380X available. So, overall this is one of the top brands of “waterproof” scales that we would recommend for this type of environment. 

#2 Cardinal 190

Cardinal Scale weight indicators are one of the most vital pieces of equipment available in the company’s extensive product line. These valuable implements can couple with virtually any scale or weighing equipment to provide easy, digital viewing in almost any setting, indoors or outdoors. Each indicator is developed with the highest durability, data integration, and resolution in mind. Cardinal Scale Manufacturing weight indicators service a wide range of industries, from food service and medical to industrial and agricultural weighing applications. Cardinal Scale’s indicators range from waterproof, color-changing displays to full-fledged programmable indicators that can be remotely controlled.

Built for extreme-use applications in the weighing industry, the Cardinal 190 STORM IP69K rated polycarbonate enclosure withstands high-temperature up to 176º F and high-pressure wash downs (1450 PSI). The 190 STORM features capacitive touch keys, 1-inch-high clearly visible LCD digits, built-in RS232 communications port, and versatile power options: AC, DC, and rechargeable battery.

The 190 STORM bright vivid display changes color automatically as the pre-assigned target weights are reached. The operator knows immediately when they’ve reached the acceptable weight range based on the amber, green, or red color changes for UNDER, ACCEPT, or OVER weights. NTEP, OIML, and Measurement Canada.

The 190 is consistently a favorite among customers over the past several years due to it’s enclosure rating, easy to read display, and overall features. 

#3 Ohaus Defender Series

In our opinion, no washdown scale list is complete without at least mentioning the robust lineup of washdown scales under the Ohaus Defender banner. There are NUMEROUS choices available to meet just about any specification or requirement you can think of. In fact, I could have easily moved this selection up in our top 5 since they do have so many choices available. 

For example, the Defender 6000 Series Extreme Washdown Bench Scale is specifically designed for food, chemical and pharmaceutical applications, including production and packaging. Defender 6000 handles the most demanding applications with 316 stainless steel platform and frame, and hermetically sealed stainless steel IP69K load cell. Defender 6000 meets metrological approvals, NSF listing, and supporting HACCP systems.

IP66 rated weight indicator

Meanwhile for those looking for a more simple stainless steel washdown scale, the Defender 3000 Washdown – i-D33 Stainless Steel Bench Scale for basic industrial washdown applications features a i-DT33XW weight display that is easy to read using the large, bright backlit LCD display. In Checkweighing mode display changes color (yellow/green/red) to alert when within the target weight range. This tough industrial scale features a 304-stainless steel platform and frame, IP67 load cell. The Ohaus i-DT33XW weight indicator features an IP66 washdown protected 304-stainless steel housing with mounting bracket. Great for parts counting, check weighing and totalization. Includes RS232 with optional USB Device or Ethernet for printing or data connectivity.

#4 Rinstrum X320

The Rinstrum X320 combines innovation in industrial design and engineering excellence to create a weight indicator that is ideal for use in food processing, automotive, chemical or pharmaceutical applications or basically any applications that require reliable operation in harsh environmental conditions. The Rinstrum X320 indicator builds on Rinstrum’s already successful R320 indicator that you’ve probably seen over the years. Constructed of a high tech plastic alloy that is food grade and chemical resistant, temperature resistant, and impact resistant. 

x320

The double “o” ring seal which provides great performance over traditional stainless steel enclosures. IP69K rating: the industry’s highest environmental protection rating – designed to withstand cleaning with high pressure water jets (1400psi) at high temperatures from multiple angles. The X320 features built-in check weigh function with 3 colored high intensity LEDs. Rinstrum also has a variety of scale bases to use with the X320 as well. 

#5 Pennsylvania Scale Co

The Pennsylvania Scale Co now offers hygienic washdown scales & washdown indicators that feature an easy-to-clean design for demanding wet and washdown environments. 

The Pennsylvania Scale Co 6500 Series washdown scales and weighing systems include indicators, washdown scales, and bases that provide high-performance, easy-to-clean designs for demanding wet and washdown environments. Systems are available as indicator only, bench scale only, bench scale and indicator, and bench scale, indicator, and column.

All 304 stainless steel construction, including hardware and load cell, helps to maintain sanitary requirements while delivering dependable performance in demanding environments, such as food manufacturing and food processing. Other hygienic design features include a fully sealed indicator, welded corners on the platform cover, and an open design base structure that won’t collect water or debris.

Choose from the simple interface 7400 WD or, for more advanced operation, the 7600/4 WD indicator. The Pennsylvania washdown lineup at this time features an IP66 to IP67 rating.

We put this lineup in our top 5 washdown scales list for several reasons. PA Scale items are generally well built and tend to last for many years. Many of the items are constructed in the USA so hopefully lead times should be reasonable. The scales feature a generous manufacturers limited warranty. And, we feel this company is heading in the right direction when it comes to quality, product development, leadership, etc…  (We can’t say that for all our suppliers)

Well there you have it. Our top 5 washdown scales. It’s actually more than five, especially when you factor all the Ohaus Defender choices!  If you need some help deciding amongst all these great washdown scales, just call our sales team at (919) 776-7737

 

 

One Key Feature to Look For in Your Medical Scales: Connectivity

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When facilities look to purchase new medical scales, some buyers may ask: “Does the product have connectivity?”

When a device has “connectivity” it means the product can send data to another device, such as a vital sign monitor or a PC. This connection to another device can work in variety of ways such as integration partnerships between device manufacturers or Bluetooth pairing. When data is sent from a device, a medical scale for example, to the secondary connected device, the information can then be saved into a patient’s electronic medical record. This direct transmission of patient measurements has several benefits in the healthcare environment.

With no handwritten data to transcribe, sending data electronically can eliminate manual errors such as inputting a decimal point in the wrong place or entering an incorrect digit in a weight measurement. Having a correct weight entered into a patient record is especially critical in areas of care where medication dosage relies on an accurate weight measurement. Direct data transmission also greatly improves efficiency. When data is sent automatically into a patient record this saves the caregiver valuable time by not having to manually enter the information. Automatic data entry can also standardize the way patient information is recorded.

 

For example, using a connected kilograms only scale means patient weights will only be transmitted and recorded in kg units. This is beneficial not only for standardized data but also for safety where weight-based dosing is being used. Healthcare facilities evaluate new equipment based on several features and connectivity is often an important attribute. How a new device will integrate into a facility’s workflow and system should also be considered.

portable HOM medical scale for wheelchair

Choosing a supplier that offers several options to meet the provider’s needs is ideal. Our selection of high quality Health o Meter Professional scales provides several connectivity solutions for transmitting weight, height, and BMI measurements to vital sign monitors, computers, and EMR systems. These solutions enhance healthcare facility workflow efficiency, patient safety, and provide a quick and simple method to record patient information.

Learn more about our many connectivity solutions by completing the RFQ form on our website.

Do New Scales Arrive Calibrated & Ready to Weigh?

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Is my new scale calibrated and ready to use?  If you are purchasing a scale from us and you are located in central NC then there is probably a 99.9% chance we have tested and calibrated your scale. However, if you are or have purchased a scale from us and it is being shipped to you from the factory then that is a different situation.

In fact, we are asked this question quite often…. Do your scales come calibrated? I would say probably at least 95% of the time the answer is yes, they have been calibrated. The calibration is what we refer to as factory calibration. Most new scales are calibrated at the scale manufacturer or “factory” location. 

The vast majority of our suppliers calibrate the scales before the end user starts weighing.  But, that factory calibration can vary. We have some suppliers who have the scales calibrated overseas. So, they are not calibrated in the US. As you probably know, a lot of rough handling and bumps and tumbles can occur between the manufacturers location and yours. Some suppliers also charge extra fees to calibrate their scales in the US.

scale repair and maintenance

Many scales these days are manufactured overseas and the scales are tested and basically run through QC before final packaging. So your scale will be calibrated at that point. However, that doesn’t guarantee it will be correct once it’s shipped halfway around the world. You also will not typically receive any calibration documentation from this testing either. In fact, many of the scale manufactures located in the US don’t like providing written calibration reports either.  

So, you may be wondering, what can I do?  If you’re purchasing scales online, you really need to have your scales tested and calibrated once you put them into service in the location where you plan to use them. You will need to contact a reputable local scale company in your area to do this. They should have certified test weights.  At that point a calibration certificate or report should be able to be generated that is actually valid. 

So, do new scales come calibrated?  Basically, if you’re one of our local customers and you purchase a scale from us, your scale calibration should be taken care of and you will likely be able to find it online using our best in class software. If you’re purchasing a scale online, you need to verify with the sales department what type of calibration and/or documentation you need. Questions?  Call us at (919) 776-7737.

Benefits of Using a Mobile Scale Cart

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I think most scale buyers don’t think about a scale cart when they’re looking to purchase a bench scale. I also don’t think a lot of scale sellers think to offer a mobile scale cart as an option either.

Adding a mobile scale cart to your bench scale purchase can be a great choice. In today’s article we are going to go into greater detail regarding the benefits of adding a mobile scale cart to your bench scale purchase.

What is a Mobile Scale Cart?

Normally customers order a counter-top bench scale with capacity ranges of anywhere from 5 lb to 100 lb and they typically place these scales on a counter top.  The scale platform sizes are usually between 12″ x 12″ and 20″ x 20″ or so.  And in many cases these counter top weighing locations work out just fine and the scale delivers great accuracy and everyone is happy.  But what if you could buy a specialized mobile cart that the scale sits on top of?

The mobile scale cart is basically a portable cart that is designed by the scale manufacturer to fit certain scales and to easily allow you to move an industrial scale from place to place in your warehouse. These mobile scale carts are ideal for customers who need to have a weighing device in multiple locations in their business. 

The scale carts are manufactured with a painted steel construction. Sometimes a stainless steel version can be made available as well. Often a couple of the support columns will have swivel casters that can lock in place.

You might be thinking, well I can just buy some cheap cart from Uline and do this…. Well the beauty of the mobile scale cart is they also include other features sometimes like adjustable legs which allow you to change the overall heights of the cart as well as a column to mount the weight indicator. For example, the Rice Lake BenchMark MSC-20 mobile scale cart features two swivel, locking casters and two rigid casters and is designed to easily transport a counting scale and secondary scale anywhere you need to place it in your facility.

mobile scale cart

Benefits of a Mobile Scale Cart

Sure you can try to physically carry a bench scale all over your facility. However, all it takes is one mistake and now you have a broken scale or perhaps a load cell cable that has been ripped out of a weight indicator. The smart choice would be to place the scale system on a mobile scale cart and transport the scale where ever you need it. You can probably even place a power strip on the platform safely or maybe even place a label printer on there as well for maximum efficiency. 

We often talk about portable scales, but most of the time we think of the scales themselves being portable with carrying handles built in or perhaps wheels inside the scale platform.  We don’t often think about mobile scale carts that can also provide true portability. For example, the Rice Lake BenchMark MSC-10 mobile scale cart features two swivel, locking casters and two rigid casters. It also features adjustable height with telescoping tube designed legs and a 18-inch indicator stand for mounting weight indicators like the CW-90X, 480 Plus, 482 Plus, 680 Synergy, & 380 Synergy.  As you can see from this indicator list, you could use this cart for basic weighing, over/under check weighing, or even parts counting.

Today we focused most of our attention on portable bench scale systems. But we also have many different ways to make floor scales portable as well. Things like portability frames with wheels, scale carts, floor scale portability frames with forklift channels, etc… If you need more information on our mobile scale carts be sure to contact the sales department by completing the RFQ form or calling (919) 776-7737.  

Grain Testing Scales for Sample Houses

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Grain testing scales are essential tools used in agricultural sampling houses for coops, large farms, and the food processing industry to determine the quality and value of grain. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of their use and requirements for legal-for-trade classification:

Sample Collection

Grain samples are typically collected by a probe while the grain is loaded in a truck and being weighed on a static truck scale. Proper sampling is crucial to ensure the sample is representative of the entire batch, so the probe will typically select the sampling from random spots within the batch.

Weighing

The grain sample is brought into the scale house via the probe. There the sample is placed on a testing scale to measure its weight. This measurement helps in determining the test weight of the grain, which is a key factor in marketing and pricing. Test weight indicates the density of the grain and can influence its market value.

Grain scales such as Cardinal Detecto models 420-3000, 420-1200, and 420-600 provide quick and accurate weight measurements for a variety of grains. These small countertop scales are typically situated next to the grain moisture meter in the scale house.

Moisture Testing

After the sample has been weighed, it is then tested for moisture content using a grain moisture meter. This step is essential for assessing the grain’s quality and suitability for storage and processing.

Dockage Testing

Dockage testing helps separate impurities from the grain. Dockage is foreign material typically not included in the market price.

Data Recording

The weights and measurements obtained from the scale and grain moisture meter are recorded and analyzed. These data points provide insights into the quality, purity, and potential yield of the grain batch.

Quality Grading

Based on the weight and size distribution, the grain is graded. Higher test weights generally indicate better grain quality, which fetches higher prices on the market. These procedures ensure that the grain meets industry standards and helps in making informed decisions regarding its sales and processing.

detecto 420 series ntep scales

Detecto model 420-3000 class II legal-for-trade scale is a popular choice for grain testing weighing due to its 60,000-division resolution combined with a price point nearly $1000 less than any other competitor’s NTEP scales in that resolution category. Multiple other 420 series models with varying capacities and similar price range are also available in the 60,000-division category, making them NTEP (National Type Evaluation Program) legal-for-trade for grain sampling weighing applications. They only take up 8.6 inch x 11.5 inch of counter space and come with an AC adapter and rechargeable battery.

The 420-3000 sampling scale has a 7.4 inch by 5.8 inch stainless steel platform that can be lifted off for easy cleaning after grain weighing. The precision digital balance scale has a 3,000 gram capacity with 0.05 gram divisions, conforming to NTEP class II Handbook 44 requirements, for use in both commercial and GIPSA (Grain Inspection, Packers, and Stockyards Administration) applications.

The scale division for grain testing scales, according to Handbook 44, must not exceed 0.2 grams for loads through 500 grams, and must not exceed 1 gram for loads above 500 grams through 1,000 grams, so the 420-3000 is well below those requirements at only 0.05 gram divisions.

One of the factors in grain quality that sampling houses will be looking for is dockage, such as debris and hulls. Dockage refers to the foreign material and impurities, such as fungus, in grain that needs to be removed to assess its true quality and value.

Scale house operators will test for fungus by weighing good grain samples first and weighing grain samples with fungus present afterward to extrapolate from the total load and subtract the dollar amount from the load’s value. These minute weight differences between dockage and live weight samples are why grain test scales with tight division values are critical in the process.

The grain samples are subjected to dockage testing using specialized equipment like dockage testers. These testers help in separating the impurities from the grain, providing a clear measurement of the dockage percentage.

Dockage testing is a critical step in the grain grading process, ensuring that only high-quality, impurity-free grain reaches the market, which benefits both producers and consumers. The grain elevator purchasing company discloses dockage prior to the transaction being completed, so the farmer can accept the offer or decline it and check if they can get a better dockage elsewhere, and therefore a better price, from another buyer.

The USDA’s Grain Inspection, Packers, and Stockyards Administration, otherwise known as GIPSA, establishes regulations for grain weighing under the United States Grain Standards Act (USGSA).

These regulations ensure accurate and fair grain weighing practices, which are critical for maintaining market integrity. GIPSA sets official performance and procedural requirements for grain weighing equipment. This includes the guidelines for accuracy, calibration, and maintenance of weighing devices used in grain handling facilities.

Sampling houses in commercial applications must use grain testing scales that are NTEP approved and placed in service legal for trade. Depending upon the state, the scales would be placed in service by a state scale inspector or a registered scale service agency. Most states will not place a scale in service that does not have NTEP certificate or conformance, but in the end that is determined by the state.

The owner of the scale is responsible for the scale, so if it is either not suitable or out of tolerance, the owner is liable and could face fines, which are generally levied by the state attorney office. Detecto 420 series scales combine NTEP legal-for-trade class II status that conforms to Handbook 44 and USDA GIPSA requirements, in the division size necessary, with a much lower price point than any other competitors’ scales on the market making them a clear choice for grain testing weighing.​

Contact our sales department today to learn more about the 420 series.

The Top 4 Pallet Jack Scales for Weighing Pallets in Your Warehouse

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Most warehouses in the United States have at least one pallet jack somewhere. An even greater luxury is to have a pallet jack scale that you can utilize. Sure you can always take a regular pallet truck or forklift and go find a platform scale. But if you have a pallet truck with built in scale, you just roll under the pallet, lift it up and get a weight!

These pallet trucks or pallet jacks or non motorized forklifts with scales built inside are actually very useful and are available in various fork sizes, max capacities, and brands. Some have printers. Some choices could be offered in stainless steel. Some choices could be legal for trade. Below I’m going to list my top four choices of the best pallet jack scales in America. 

CAS CPS SERIES
The CAS Corporation CPS Series Pallet Jack Scales are the ideal solution for commercially approved or general industrial mobile weighing. With its built in printer the CPS is the ideal scale to weigh pallets due its heavy duty construction. Choose from the industry standard, rugged, commercially approved CPS-1 & 2 pallet jack scales. These CAS pallet jack scales have been around a long time and have a proven track record.

The CAS CPS Series Pallet Jack Scales feature heavy duty construction – Designed and built to last with four shear beam load cells which provide stability, durability, & accuracy. The scale itself is easy to use with optimum maneuverability. Lift loads easily with hydraulic lift pump assembly and it’s easy to read the weight with the large 1″ high intensity backlit LCD display which is powered by the long lasting rechargeable battery which includes the programmable SLEEP mode to conserve the battery. 

The CPS series is available in either:
CPS-1N   3,000 x 1 lb     (NTEP/Legal for Trade)  
CPS-2N   5,000 x 2 lb     (NTEP/Legal for Trade) 

Standard fork dims are 45 x 27.8 x 3.1 inches in the model C.  Models A and B are also available with different fork dims via special order.

CAS CPS PLUS SERIES
The CAS CPS Series Pallet Jack Scales are the ideal and economical solution for general industrial mobile weighing. With it’s heavy duty construction, long lasting battery, and versatility; the CPS Plus is easy to read, easy to use. Designed and built to last. Features
5,000 x 1 lb capacity. Easy to read LCD with Backlight (CI201A Indicator) and Rechargeable Battery/AC Adapter Included. This scale is non-ntep but is a great value for customers who are looking for the proven CAS product but don’t need the legal for trade commercial grade equipment. Fork dims are 45 x 27.8 x 3.1 inches.

Rice Lake RL-HPJ Hand Pallet Jack Scale
Weigh and transport pallets in one streamlined process with Rice Lake’s RL-HPJ Hand Pallet Jack Scale. Easy to use, the RL-HPJ offers maximum precision for tracking shipping and receiving weights. Battery power keeps the weighing and transport process moving, while the integrated digital indicator provides a clear weight readout in any lighting condition. With a Rice Lake pallet jack scale, material handling is faster and more efficient for your warehouse.

The RL-HPJ Pallet Jack Scale features steering wheels and double loading polyurethane rollers along with four stainless steel IP68 load cells. The weight indicator is a IP65 stainless steel water-resistant enclosure with configuration, calibration and diagnostics from the keyboard. The system includes a rechargeable battery mounted on the pallet jack. Includes a 115VAC 50/60 Hz battery charger.

With fork dimensions of 48.75 × 26.75 × 3.125 inches the RL-HPJ will soon become one of your favorite pieces of equipment in your warehouse.

pallet jack scale

Atlas Kwik-Weigh Pallet Jack Scale
The all in one Pallet Truck with Scale allows product to be weighed while being moved to storage or to the production line service. Scale has 1 lb. resolution with maximum error of /-.2% of applied load. 4,500 lb. weighing capacity. LB/KG toggle switch and push button tare. English nomenclature on the indicator face. Lowered height of 2.9″ makes for easy pallet entry. Raised height is 7.6″. Equipped with rechargeable battery pack for a 35 hour continuous operation on a single charge. Portable Electronic Scale Operations include verify incoming and out going freight, batching by weight, drum filling, and inventory control. This is an all purpose mobile scale. Not legal for trade.

The Kwik Weigh pallet jack scale features a maximum weighing capacity of 4500 lbs or 2045 kg. The digital display has a 1.5″ tall LCD display. The manufacturer states that the Max error from 0 lbs to 2500 lbs is +/- .1% of applied load (which is 2 lbs at 2500 lbs). And, the Max error from 2500 lbs to 4500 lbs is +/- .2% of applied load (which is 8 lbs at 4500 lbs). The pallet truck has a lowered height of 2.95″ for easy pallet entry and a three position lowering control with loop handle for finger tip release. The high quality leak proof pump provides maintenance free service. Other features include sealed ball bearings throughout the device. Powder coated safety/color paint after anti-rust treatment and Non-marking polyurethane wheels.

Well there you have it, the top 4 Pallet Jack Scales for weighing pallets in your warehouse everyday. You might be wondering… how did you come up with this list?  Well, I’m glad you asked. It is 100% based on past sales and how well the scales have worked once sold. I also like to work with scale manufacturers that I know are going to build their products to a certain level of quality. Other pallet jack scales that I might look at in the future include Optima, Adam Equipment, and Worldweigh but we don’t have a lot of sales experience with those brands so far.

Contact Central Carolina Scale for Pallet Jack Scale Buying Advice 
When I did some research and put together this list of the The Top 4 Pallet Jack Scales for Weighing Pallets in Your Warehouse I realized that in many cases we’ve been recommending and selling pallet jack scales long before a lot of the internet “scale experts” ever thought of selling a scale. So be sure to contact our experienced sales team for honest product reviews and buying advice on which pallet jack scale is the best for your weighing application. Be sure browse our entire lineup of pallet truck scales and either call us (919) 776-7737 or complete the RFQ form today.

The Ultimate Veterinary Scale Buyers Guide

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Today’s ultimate veterinary scale buyers guide entry is designed to provide you with some insight into purchasing vet scales to weigh everything from little dogs, kittens and rabbits to big dogs and more. There are really several key points you need to consider before making the scale purchase. And since we’ve been recommending vet scales to customers for over forty years, please allow us to provide you with several things to consider…. 

ANIMAL SCALE PLATFORM SIZE

What size weighing platform do you need for weighing animals?  What animals are you going to be weighing?  These are important questions when it comes to buying a veterinary scale. Many vet scales are around 36 to 40 inches long and somewhere near 20 inches wide.  That generally covers most animals like cats and dogs. However, if you’re only weighing kittens or bunnies, then you likely might need something smaller like the VS-11 from Rice Lake or the Vet75 from Detecto. And, likewise if you’re looking to weigh larger animals then you might need to look at the Brecknell PS2000.

VET SCALE POWER REQUIREMENTS

How are you going to power your vet scale?  If you’re just using it your vet clinic, then you can simply plug the weight display into the wall and you’re ready to weigh. But, what if you’re taking the scale on the road to weigh animals in their habitat.  Then, you will likely need some type of battery powered scale. Over the past few years, battery powered weight indicators have become more common in veterinary weighing equipment, so that should not be a problem to source. Of course, there’s always the question of do you prefer rechargeable battery or AA / AAA batteries?  

weight scale for dogs

ANIMAL WEIGHING SCALE MOBILITY

If you’re planning to take your vet scale to different locations or you are looking to move the scale around your animal hospital, then you will need a portable vet scale that is relatively easy to move throughout the building.  Often these types of vet scales will be a little lighter and will have handles on one side and sometimes they will have some wheels built into the scale platform. In this situation, we might recommend the Tree LVS-700 or the Detecto Vet550 for portable animal weighing.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Vet scales are available from various manufacturers these days. We strongly suggest that you stick with the reputable brands that both you and your scale company trust. You know the names… Detecto, Brecknell, Rice Lake, & Weighsouth to name a few.

Remember, as we’ve discussed before, there are always cheaper imported products being dumped into the market every year but they often aren’t as durable AND they often lack the manufacturer support or spare parts capability that are necessary for long term use. In many situations, we recommend the Weighsouth VS-2501 vet scale.  If you need assistance choosing the right vet scale for your application, be sure to contact the sales team by phone or by completing the RFQ form.

Industrial Scale Maintenance Overview & Recommendations

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Today we’re going to look at the subject of industrial scale maintenance. Generally, there are a couple of different types of industrial scale maintenance available. Scheduled, where your scale company comes out and checks your scales on a regular basis. Or, Unscheduled, aka… we’ll call you when it breaks. As for industrial scales, those are basically things like crane scales, pallet scales, bench scales and truck scales. So, let’s take a look at the two types of scale maintenance. 

Scheduled Scale Maintenance

Scheduled scale maintenance is sometimes referred to as preventive maintenance. We try to avoid calling it preventative because while there are a few things you can possibly prevent or catch before it becomes a big deal, there are a lot of scale issues you really can’t prevent. That being said, often scheduled scale service is a good idea at certain intervals because it helps to make sure your scales are accurate as much as possible and it can help facilitate things like having your scale cleaned regularly which often goes together with consistent accuracy and increased equipment lifespan.

scale repair and maintenance

The scheduled scale service intervals are usually a collaboration between your scale company; (hopefully that is or will be Central Carolina Scale), and yourself. These intervals are typically monthly or quarterly but can also be other time frames depending on what you and the scale technician decide. Scheduled scale maintenance hopefully keeps your scales accurate year round, minimizes any downtime, and can possibly even extend the weighing equipment lifespan in certain situations, like greasing a mechanical truck scale. 

These scheduled visits are also often referred to as service agreements. And, they usually offer the customer a discounted labor and mileage fee.

Unscheduled Scale Maintenance

Some customers for whatever reason do not want to commit to a service schedule at certain intervals. So, they essentially only call us whenever they have a break down. This can sometimes save them money throughout the year. But, when the scale breaks, they are now experiencing downtime while waiting for a scale technician to arrive, troubleshoot and fix the scale issue. We hope this is a short time but it can sometimes be a long wait. What if the service schedule is already full?  Most scale companies prioritize their service agreement customers. And of course any scale service or repairs performed will be charged at the standard price level. Therefore, we highly recommend that most customers have their scales checked on a regular interval.

Industrial Scale Maintenance Overall Recommendations

We’ve been repairing and calibrating industrial scales since Reagan took office and there are a few recommendations we suggest that most companies consider. First, find a scale company that you like and trust. (Hopefully they are located on this webpage : )  Discuss your scale usage and calibration intervals with them. Then put a service agreement in place so you can have your scales checked regularly, save a little on rates, reduce downtime and increase accuracy. This will hopefully help you to experience minimal downtime in your business. We also suggest discussing with your scale company what replacement scale parts they stock and what parts they suggest that you stock on your shelf.

asset management software

One nice feature of working with us at Central Carolina Scale is that we offer a wonderful asset management software that allows us to provide you with not just online scale calibration certificates, but an overall history of your scales performance over time. Most of our local competitors can’t offer that. They just offer an online scale cal cert that they can store online or email to you. On the other hand, our weighing data acts essentially like a mix of maintenance records and historical data on each of your scales, helping you make better decisions about your scales.

At Central Carolina Scale, we always are working on improving our service and calibration offerings. We are always trying to learn about the different scale indicators and controllers available from various scale manufacturers. We focus our attention completely on scales and weighing equipment. While others are working with everything from material handling pallet racks to color testing to airbags…. we focus all our attention to scales and weighing equipment. 

So, when it comes to buying or servicing industrial scales in North Carolina, be sure to contact Central Carolina Scale for the best product knowledge and service around. You can call us at (919) 776-7737 or complete the RFQ form on our website for more info today. 

The Return of the Digital Smart Sectional Controller (DSSC)

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Back in September 2010, Thurman Scale originally released the Digital Smart Sectional Controller (DSSC) for converting Mettler® DigiTOL® scales to Intalogix. In July of 2018, the DSSC went End of Life (EoL) due to several electronic components used in the design no longer being available.

However, recently Thurman has been able to source components to allow them to again manufacture and offer the DSSC for customers who desire to convert their Mettler scale to Intalogix.  Please continue reading as we discuss what the DSSC is all about and how it can help out a lot of customers who have older MT truck scales.

What is a Digital Smart Sectional Controller?

This is a special type of Smart Sectional Controller manufactured by Thurman Scale in St Johnsbury, Vermont specifically designed to interface to the Mettler 760 Powercell and MTX cells. These cells will have the cable connector on the top half and usually an orange label on the top half.

thurman dssc truck scale junction box

How do the DSSCs work?
The DSSC is very similar to the SSCs you may have heard of. DSSCs feature Thurman Scale Intalogix Technology. The DSSCs wire up very similar to the standard SSCs. Besides the ability to interface with the Mettler 760 Powercell and MTX cells, the DSSCs will drive four (4) load cells each, whereas the SSCs drive two (2) each. The DSSC was specifically designed to be a drop-in replacement for the existing Mettler junction box. The DSSCs even use the exiting Mettler mounting hardware. The DSSCs also use the same Pit Power Supplies as the standard SSCs.

Do the DSSCs only work with the Mettler 760 Powercell and MTX cells digital cells?
No. One of the best features of the DSSC is the ability to mix and match load cells.
As the Mettler 760 Powercell and MTX cells eventually fail, you can replace them with the standard analog 7.5” tall RC load cell (part # 95544 with 26’ cable). Other cable lengths available.

What scale instrumentation does the DSSC require?
The DSSC work with all Thurman Scale’s Heavy Capacity instruments which use Intalogix Technology. Such as TS611, TS612, & TS613.

Is special software required in the scale instrument to work with the DSSCs?
No special software is required to work with the DSSCs. Just 100% standard catalog products. From the instrument side, everything is exactly the same. You lose no instrument features or functions. You still have the very best load cell diagnostics available through Intalogix technology. You still have digitally isolated load cells. You still have optically isolated load cells. You still have the digital front panel calibration. Those items all remain intact because it is the exact same instrument. Simply choose the instrument that provides the best solution for you.

We also have an analog load cell scale kit replacement as well. However, in most cases we would probably recommend going with the Thurman digital scale equipment versus the older analog style load cells.

Is there a cumbersome load cell addressing scheme like some Mettler instruments require?
No. Just like any Intalogix system using our standard SSC, the cells are automatically
found and addressed by the DSSC ID. No connecting, disconnecting and reconnecting cells to find cell addresses. 

Is this a new product?
No. The DSSCs were originally introduced by Thurman Scale in September 2010.

Have we done many conversions?
Completed conversions number over five hundred (500+) scales. This is a hardened, field-tested in the most demanding of all applications.

Will the DSSC work with the Mettler PDX digital cells?
No. The DSSC was designed specifically for the Mettler 760 Powercell and MTX cells. The Mettler PDX cell is a different digital load cell with a different digital interface compared to the Mettler 760 Powercell and MTX cells.

Will the DSSC work with the Cardinal digital cells or the B-Tek digital cells?
No to both the Cardinal & B-Tek.  The DSSC was designed specifically for the Mettler 760 Powercell and MTX cells. The Cardinal digital system uses its own unique digital load cell with a unique and different digital interface compared to the Mettler 760 Powercell and MTX cells. Likewise, the B-Tek digital system uses its own unique digital load cell with a unique and different digital interface compared to the Mettler 760 Powercell and MTX cells.

So, why would someone want to buy this Thurman DSSC solution?
Mettler has updated their digital cells a few times over the years. Their current PDX load cell is not backward compatible with older digital cells. Mettler no longer manufacturers the 760 Powercell and MTX cells. This means if a customer has an older cell that fails, the MT solution is to replace every cell in the system to upgrade to the PDX cell.

Additionally, Mettler is no longer manufacturing instruments and replacement parts compatible with the Mettler 760 Powercell and MTX cells. This means the customer could face replacement of all load cells and the instrumentation. As you can imagine, this is not a desirable solution for most customers.

Until now, the owner of a Mettler Toledo truck scale using the Mettler 760 Powercell or MTX cells had no options but to replace all their load cells and possibly the instrument as well. No other manufacturer offers a similar solution to the DSSC. This is a unique product offering from Thurman Scale.

If this sounds like a product that would interest you, please complete our RFQ form on our website for more information.

5 Reasons You Should Consider Hydrostatic Cells for Your Next Tank, Hopper, Silo, or Vessel Weighing Application

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Most of the time when you think about tank scales or hopper style scales you often think of load cell mounts or weigh modules with strain gauge load cells placed under the vessel. But in today’s entry we take a look at a few of the advantages of using a hydraulic load cell instead. Out of all the weighing technologies available, hydrostatic load cells often standout as one of the most robust and dependable solutions on the market today. Let’s take a look at five of the advantages of choosing a hydraulic load cell system for placing under your tank.

Durability and Resilience 

Hydrostatic load cells are engineered with simplicity and resilience in mind. Unlike electronic load cells which contain delicate components vulnerable to environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations, moisture, and electromagnetic interference. This inherent simplicity not only reduces the risk of component failure but also enhances longevity, making hydrostatic load cells ideal for harsh industrial environments where reliability is crucial. The factory believes in the quality and durability of the hydrostatic load cells so much that they offer a lifetime load cell guarantee. 

Minimal Maintenance Requirements

Electronic load cells sometimes require periodic calibration and maintenance to ensure accuracy and performance. In contrast, hydrostatic load cells have minimal maintenance requirements. This translates to reduced downtime and lower maintenance costs, providing a clear advantage for businesses seeking efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Accuracy and Precision

Hydrostatic load cells offer exceptional accuracy and precision, even in demanding conditions. As a result, users can rely on hydrostatic load cells to deliver precise measurements with confidence, whether for process control, material testing, or other critical applications.

emery winslow tank load cell

Intrinsically Safe Design

In environments where explosive gases or flammable materials are present, safety is of utmost concern. Hydrostatic load cells offer an intrinsically safe design, with no electrical components in direct contact with the measured load. For industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, or mining, where safety is non-negotiable, hydrostatic load cells provide a reliable solution for accurate weight measurement without compromising safety.

Cost Effectiveness 

With minimal maintenance requirements, extended durability, and reliable performance, hydrostatic loadcells offer excellent long-term value. Businesses can benefit from reduced downtime, lower maintenance costs, and improved operational efficiency, leading to a higher return on investment (ROI).

So those are some of the advantages of using hydrostatic load cells under your tank. Now to be fair there can be some disadvantages to choosing a system like this.  A hydrostatic system like this can cost more than a traditional weigh module kit with strain gauge load cells. And, installation and regular maintenance would need to be handled by a local scale company with hydraulic load cell experience. In other words, not every scale company out there has experience with this type of weighing equipment. 

If you are interested in learning more or getting a quote on a 120 Series or 136 Series. Please contact our sales department via the RFQ form on our website.  We look forward to working with you.