This article contains everything you need to know about Platform Industrial Scales.
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A platform scale is a type of weighing apparatus featuring one or two metal plates designed to support items being weighed. These plates can have either a smooth or diamond-patterned surface. Platform scales are robust and designed for heavy-duty use, available in various sizes, capacities, styles, and models to accommodate diverse industrial requirements.
The low-profile design of platform scales allows for the weighing of large items such as pallets, animals, substantial loads, or individual crates and boxes. The item to be weighed is placed on the scale's surface.
The platform's role is to transfer the weight of the object to an internal measuring system and provide stable support during the weighing process. Different types of devices can be integrated into the platform scale to assist in weight measurement. Platform scales come in a variety of designs, sizes, and load capacities to suit different customer or user needs.
Platform scales find practical use in a variety of settings. They are commonly employed in sectors such as trading, manufacturing, logistics, and services to measure or verify material weights. In industries where precise weight measurements are crucial, platform scales play a key role in revenue generation, ensuring safety, and maintaining high standards for products and services. Beyond commercial and industrial applications, these scales are also suitable for small-scale weight measurements in personal, domestic, medical, and laboratory contexts.
Using a platform scale is a simple process. To weigh an object, you place it on the platform, and the scale handles the rest. The object exerts a compressive force on the platform, which is then transferred to an internal mechanism. This mechanism converts the force into a readable weight measurement, which is displayed on the scale’s screen or indicator for the user to record.
Platform scales are primarily categorized into two types: electronic and mechanical. The distinction between them lies in their methods for determining weight. Mechanical platform scales use levers, springs, and reference weights to measure weight, while electronic scales use electronic components and sensors for this purpose.
Load cells are devices that convert mechanical forces, such as tension and compression, into electronic signals. They achieve this by using a spring mechanism combined with a strain gauge. The load cell changes physical forces into digital readings that can be measured and displayed. The type of load cell used in platform scales depends on the size of the items being weighed and the specific requirements of the scale.
The most commonly used load cells are strain gauge load cells. These devices measure the strain or deformation applied to a material. Strain gauges transform mechanical forces, such as tension, pressure, and compression, into electrical signals that can be shown digitally.
Strain gauges play a crucial role in load cell design and manufacturing. They detect the amount of force or strain applied to the load cell structure and convert it into electrical signals. The strain experienced by the load is directly measured by the strain gauge(s), which results in a linear change in electrical resistance.
In load cells, strain gauge assemblies are inside the load cell housing and act as an electronic sensor. They contain a metal foil insulated by a flexible substrate that changes its resistance in response to an applied external force. Voltage fluctuations cause a deformation of the metal foil as electrical current passes through its leads. The change in voltage is converted by a digital meter into measurable weight readings.
Platform scales commonly utilize several types of strain gauge load cells, including single point, planar beam, bending beam, shear beam, dual shear beam, and S-type load cells.
A shear beam load cell features a metal component that deforms elastically when subjected to a load. The strain experienced by the metal is detected by a strain gauge, which converts it into an electrical signal. Shear beam load cells are typically used for medium-sized loads, generally up to five tons.
Single point load cells feature an aperture, which is a cut-out section of the load cell's body. This aperture regulates the thickness of the metal across the load cell. When a load is applied, the shape of the load cell changes, causing deformation that is detected by strain gauges. This deformation generates a voltage signal proportional to the weight of the load.
Magnetic force restoration (MFR) scales are sophisticated electromechanical balances that use electrodynamic converters with permanent magnets to convert the force applied to the scale platform into a proportional electric current. These scales are among the most expensive but offer superior stability and repeatability.
Unlike strain gauge scales, which measure the force directly, MFR scales generate a counteracting force to balance the load's weight. The measurement occurs when the platform is in equilibrium, allowing for highly precise readings.
In MFR scales, the weighing platform is connected to a force coil suspended in a magnetic field created by an amplifier. This amplifier produces the necessary current to maintain balance. The current flowing through a resistor generates a measurable voltage that keeps the platform balanced, which corresponds to the weight of the material.
The scale’s measurement is processed by an A/D converter, which transforms the voltage readings into a digital signal. This signal is sent to a microprocessor with specialized software to display the weight on a screen. The accuracy of the measurements is maintained by a displacement detector and temperature sensor that regulate the amplifier.
Weighing oversized and heavy materials requires a highly durable and resilient scale that can handle the demands of heavy-duty use. Among the various weighing solutions available, platform scales are the most commonly used due to their efficiency and ease of use in industrial weighing processes.
Despite their straightforward operation, platform scales incorporate technical features that ensure highly accurate weight measurements. These scales are versatile and are equipped with indicators that connect to the platform.
Platform scales consist of several essential components: load cells with strain gauges, a platter or deck, a platform base, and indicators. Load cells are the core components, bearing the weight of the material and generating readings. The platter or deck rests on the load cells, providing a surface for placing the load. The indicator or terminal then displays the weight readings transmitted from the load cells.
Floor scales are engineered to handle heavy, oversized, and cumbersome loads that are too large for standard scales. A typical floor scale system includes a deck, a weight indicator, and four shear beam load cells. Within the scale platform, a junction box containing a summing box calibrates the load cells to ensure uniform weight measurement across all cells.
Floor scales are designed to be placed directly on the floor and are commonly used in environments such as factories, warehouses, and shipping departments. They are built to support substantial loads and endure harsh and hazardous conditions. Various types of floor scales are available, each offering different features and capabilities tailored to specific needs.
A basic floor scale is the most straightforward type, featuring a simple rectangular platform that rests directly on the floor. The platform is slightly elevated above the floor. Items are placed onto the platform either manually or using equipment like pallet jacks, forklifts, pushcarts, or hand trucks. There are two main methods for loading items onto a basic floor scale:
One option is to install ramps on the edges of the floor scale to facilitate the loading and unloading of items. While ramps make it easier to move items onto the scale, they require additional floor space and can pose a risk to workers when pushing heavy loads onto the scale.
Another option for basic floor scales is to install the scale within a pit frame. This setup helps eliminate safety hazards for workers and reduces the amount of floor space required. A pit frame is placed slightly below the floor level, allowing the floor scale platform to align flush with the surrounding floor surface. However, this installation method involves additional costs.
A low-profile floor scale is a variation of the basic floor scale with a platform positioned much closer to the ground, typically 1 to 2 inches above it. This design simplifies manual loading and unloading for workers and makes the scale more accessible for moving equipment. Additionally, a hinged ramp can be added to the edge of the scale to assist with item handling.
Low-profile floor scales may feature raised side rails with load cells placed underneath to ensure accurate weighing of large items. However, this design can present challenges when dealing with irregularly shaped items.
Washdown scales, also known as lift scales, feature a top deck that can be lifted to provide access to the internal components for thorough cleaning and maintenance. The deck can be raised either manually or with an automated system using pneumatic or hydraulic mechanisms. During washing, the electronic components are protected from exposure to harsh substances.
These scales are designed for use in environments where high levels of sanitation are required, such as in the food, beverage, agricultural, and pharmaceutical industries. They are ideal for weighing liquids and corrosive chemicals, and they facilitate frequent cleaning to prevent chemical and microbial contamination. Constructed from materials with high chemical and corrosion resistance, such as stainless steel, washdown scales are built to endure these demanding conditions.
Portable floor scales offer enhanced mobility compared to other types of floor scales. Using a portable floor scale can be more cost-effective than installing multiple stationary scales in different locations.
To take advantage of their mobility, most portable floor scales are battery-powered and include a rechargeable feature, allowing them to operate at various locations without needing a fixed electrical outlet. They are equipped with durable casters or rubber wheels for easy movement and positioning. These features make it possible to weigh items anywhere within an industrial setting. Additionally, a ramp can be added for further convenience.
Flexure lever scales are equipped with an S beam load cell designed to handle shock loading. These floor scales are specifically used in environments where heavy, sudden impacts may place significant stress on the scale.
Truck scales are designed to weigh vehicles along with their cargo. They are essential for monitoring overloaded vehicles on highways and bridges, as well as for managing incoming and outgoing shipments at various facilities.
Truck scales are essentially large floor scales with a significantly higher load capacity. They are commonly installed at highway checkpoints and inspection stations. Given their need to handle large weights, truck scales are equipped with multiple load cells—typically ranging from 6 to 12—to ensure accurate measurements.
Manufacturers of platform scales provide a range of accessories designed to improve the functionality of their scales and address the specific requirements of their customers. Since the types, sizes, and materials to be weighed can vary greatly, these accessories help tailor the scale to different applications, potentially eliminating the need to purchase additional scales.
Pit riser stands are frames designed to secure a floor scale within an existing pit that is deeper than the standard depth for the scale. Installed beneath the scale with anchor bolts, these stands raise the height of the floor scale system to accommodate the deeper pit.
Portability frames are designed to convert fixed floor scales into mobile units. Various options are available for making fixed floor scales portable, including designs that feature casters or forklift compatibility.
Access ramps enhance the functionality of a floor scale by making it easier to weigh loads on pallets or boxes moved by a dolly. They offer a more convenient method for loading and unloading materials onto the scale. Access ramps are particularly useful for floor scales used to weigh barrels and drums that are transported on trolleys.
Pit frames are used to convert a standard floor scale into a low-profile platform scale. This involves placing the existing deck into a pit, which facilitates easier access and use of the scale.
Bumper guards serve two key purposes: they protect a platform scale from damage caused by forklift forks, pallet jacks, and other accidental impacts, and they act as a safety feature to alert employees in the vicinity, helping to prevent trips and injuries from contact with the scale's edge.
Constructed from robust and durable materials, bumper guards are designed to absorb and deflect impact forces. Some models also feature a reflective surface to enhance visibility and further improve safety.
Mixing scales are designed for the precise measurement of fine ingredients that significantly affect the quality and characteristics of a product. They are commonly utilized in industries such as automotive paint manufacturing to ensure accurate ingredient ratios.
SAW scales represent a new advancement in platform scale technology. Unlike traditional scales that use strain gauges, SAW (Surface Acoustic Wave) scales measure displacement through the interaction of receiver and transmitter transducers. These transducers generate and receive waves that travel back and forth between them.
In a SAW scale, the transmitter transducer generates a wave that travels to the receiver transducer and is then reflected back. When an object is placed on the scale platform, it causes the spring to deflect, altering the frequency of the waves between the transducers. The weight of the object is determined by measuring this change in frequency.
Digital platform scales are the standard for the platform scale industry. They are capable of weighing very large objects that can weigh up to 10 tons. Digital platform scales have bearings and pivots on their sides and sliding or spring dials. The popularity of digital platform scales is their accuracy and ability to provide clear and concise weight readings.
Digital platform scales, categorized as essential electronic instruments, play a crucial role in industrial and manufacturing processes. Accurate weight measurement is vital for production operations. Historically, mechanical platform scales were used to measure components, parts, and raw materials, but they often delivered inconsistent results.
The advent of digital technology has revolutionized weighing by providing highly accurate and reliable measurements. This advancement enhances the efficiency of weighing processes and improves measurement precision, offering manufacturers a competitive advantage and increased profitability.
The previous chapter described various types of platform scales, each offering different features tailored to the needs and desired levels of service and automation of customers. When selecting, upgrading, and maintaining a platform scale, the following aspects should be carefully considered:
Capacity denotes the maximum load that a platform scale can accurately measure. It is a critical specification to review when choosing a scale. However, scales with higher capacities may not always be ideal, as increasing capacity can often compromise accuracy. Additionally, higher-capacity scales typically involve greater investment and maintenance costs. Therefore, it is advisable to select a capacity that is only slightly above the maximum expected load.
Readability indicates the smallest measurement increment that the scale can display. It refers to the number of decimal places in the scale's measurements. Greater readability implies enhanced accuracy and a higher number of significant figures in the measurement. This is especially important for laboratory scales to minimize calculation errors and for weighing valuable items where precision is crucial. Smaller increments also reflect the higher functionality of the scale's weighing sensors.
Accuracy measures how closely the scale's measurement aligns with the true value. To ensure accurate performance, platform scales require regular calibration to maintain their accuracy.
Linearity describes the scale's ability to provide correct measurements from zero weight up to its maximum capacity. It is assessed by measuring objects with known weights and plotting the results; a straight line should be produced. Another method involves cutting a stable sample into equal parts, weighing each part separately, and verifying that the combined weight matches the weight of the whole sample.
Drift refers to the variation in readings while weighing a sample, leading to unstable and inaccurate measurements. It is caused by environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations, vibrations, air currents, static electricity, and radio frequency interference (RFI). To minimize drift, install ionizers and position the scale in an environment free from RFI, vibrations, and air currents.
When choosing a platform scale, the materials used in its construction are crucial. Scales should be made from strong and durable materials like steel (such as carbon steel or stainless steel) or aluminum (for smaller capacities) to support the load during weighing. Corrosion resistance is also important and can be enhanced with protective coatings. Additionally, rugged platform surfaces can be selected to prevent loads from slipping during placement.
When selecting a platform scale, consider the dimensions of the items to be weighed and the available floor space where the scale will be placed. Large items are best weighed on a floor scale, while smaller items are suited for a bench scale. Additionally, evaluate the platform's inclination to determine if a ramp or pit frame is needed. A high inclination can make it difficult to load heavier items onto the scale.
For platform scales exposed to harsh or wet environments, where spills might occur, regular and thorough cleaning is essential to prevent cross-contamination. Certain platform scales, such as washdown scales, are designed to facilitate frequent cleaning and sanitation in such conditions.
Platform scales can be equipped with automated systems, such as automatic weight verification and data transmission, to enhance operational efficiency and accuracy. However, incorporating more automation features can lead to higher investment costs.
Various types of industrial scales are utilized to measure and weigh products and materials. Each scale type is tailored to the specific industry, the materials being weighed, the weighing method, and the precision required. Among these, platform scales feature a flat surface that accommodates cumbersome and irregularly shaped loads with ease.
Platform scales are adaptable to any industry and purpose. Whether in warehouses or production facilities, they offer durability and precision even in challenging work environments. They can serve as a single scale for various locations or be used at multiple sites.
The design of platform scales with a flat platform allows for efficient weighing of heavy loads. A forklift can place a pallet on the scale, weigh it, and remove it swiftly, which is advantageous for time-sensitive tasks. Measurements are delivered quickly, enhancing operational efficiency.
Platform scales facilitate rapid and precise measurement of loads, which boosts productivity by reducing turnaround times and improving the ability to meet deadlines.
Errors in data and calculations can hinder operations. Advanced platform scales are equipped with security software and digital displays that help minimize errors and prevent inaccuracies. This ensures that every load leaving a location is correctly weighed and documented.
Overloading a truck can lead to several issues, including increased stopping distances, diminished brake performance, and mechanical failures, all of which can result in accidents, delays, and higher costs.
Platform scales ensure accurate measurements, helping to keep truck loads within recommended limits. Adhering to these limits helps shipping operations comply with regulations and avoid fines for exceeding weight restrictions.
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