Author Archives: Scale Man

How to Use a Triple Beam Balance

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When you think of the triple beam balance, you probably remember it from science class in school.  You probably remember an accurate and dependable weighing scale that could operate with no battery and now 110 VAC power. But it’s been awhile and you may be wondering how to use a triple beam balance?  We’ll show you how to use the Adam triple beam balance below.

The triple beam balance has been the standard in science classrooms for decades. Whether you’re weighing solids, liquids, powders or even animals, a triple beam balance is well equipped to handle the job. These balances offer the accuracy and convenience of a toploading balance while allowing users (many times these are students) to gain hands-on experience through manipulation of the poises and attachment weights (usually sold separately).

triple beam balance

Triple Beam Balance Instructions

To weigh using the triple beam balance, place the item to be weighed on the stainless steel pan. The beam will move up. Adjust the weights on the 3 beams until the beam pointer is aligned with the zero mark again. Start with the largest weight and work towards the smallest. Each weight should be moved until the beam falls below zero then moved back one notch and then the next weight moved. The last weight moved will be the sliding weight on the front beam. Slide this weight until the beam pointer aligns with the zero mark. Read the weight by adding the values for each weight. For example 400 + 20 + 5.7 = 425.7g 

If the sample is more than 610 grams it will be necessary to add a weight to the hanger on the right side of the beam. Add the 500g counter weight first, then increase to 1kg, 1kg plus 500g or 2 of the 1kg masses. Add these counter masses to the readings from the sliding beams to determine the mass. Counter weights are supplied only with the TBB 2610S and TBB 2610T.  These instructions above specifically correspond with the Adam Equipment brand of triple beam balances but they should give you a good idea of how a triple beam balance generally works from any scale manufacturer.

 

Affordable & Reliable Weighing Device for Schools

A triple beam balance is a type of mechanical balance that is commonly used in scientific and laboratory settings to accurately measure the mass of an object. It consists of a horizontal beam with three weights that can be moved along the beam to balance the object being weighed.

One of the primary benefits of using a triple beam balance is its high level of accuracy. The balance uses a lever system to measure the mass of the object, which allows it to be extremely precise. This is important in many scientific and laboratory applications where accurate measurements are critical.

Another benefit of the triple beam balance is its simplicity and ease of use. It does not require any electricity or batteries, and it is straightforward to operate. The user simply places the object being weighed on the platform, moves the weights along the beam until the balance is achieved, and reads the mass of the object from the marked scale on the beam.

The triple beam balance is also highly durable and reliable. It is made of sturdy metal components that are designed to withstand the rigors of laboratory use. It is also resistant to temperature changes and other environmental factors that can affect the accuracy of electronic balances.

In addition to its accuracy, simplicity, and durability, the triple beam balance is also a cost-effective solution for measuring mass. It is significantly less expensive than many electronic balances, making it a budget-friendly choice for educational and research institutions such as junior high school science class.

So, we showed above how to use a triple beam balance and it’s an excellent tool for accurately and affordably measuring the weight of smaller objects. It is easy to use, highly accurate, durable, and cost-effective, making it a valuable addition to any scientific or laboratory setting on a budget.

Dangers of Buying Certain “Cheap” Scales Online

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The article below is courtesy of Mr. Boon Lim who has been involved in the weighing industry for many years. It really hammers home the points that we have been trying to discuss with customers for literally decades! 

There are differences in quality between certain brands of scales. We’ve discussed this numerous times over the years either here in our learning center or on our Youtube channel or perhaps via phone or email with you. A lot of times it’s a balancing act between value & accuracy. Many customers don’t have the budget or the requirements for the top of the line most expensive scale… but they also don’t need to buy the cheapest scale under the sun either. Let’s take a look at what Boon found when he purchased some of the cheapest scales available online. We hope you enjoy the article below.

Have you noticed a quality shift in the weighing industry? Quality standards have
decreased significantly on consumer scales with “assembly only” operations making big
waves in the scale community. Large sellers are dominating the online retail space for
consumers, and this is not any different for scales. Whether you support the
unstoppable rise of these ecommerce giants or not, there is no denying the profound
impact associated with their operation.

So, we bought some of the “Best Selling”, highly rated, affordable scales and balances to test the quality.

Yes, with 2-day free shipping too.

Our discoveries were astounding… Continue reading →

Ways to Clean & Protect Your Truck Scale from Snow & Ice this Winter

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Just like any tool or device that generates revenue for your business, a high quality truck scale should perform reliably for many years. But, with many years of use comes years of changing seasons. And, in many areas throughout the United States, a truck scale may be affected by winter weather conditions such as extreme temperatures, along with snow and ice.

snow around a truck scale weighbridge

Once you’ve invested in a truck scale and installed it in an area that experiences freezing temperatures, you may wonder… How do I protect my truck scale from ice and snow, and precipitation build up around a truck scale?  

If snow and ice accumulate around suspension components or between the weighbridge and the foundation, it can compromise scale functions. This can result in incorrect weighments and a potential loss of profit. Even if you manage to avoid the snow, build up of dirt and debris may contain moisture which can freeze and prevent a scale from functioning properly. Continue reading →

Importance of Vehicle Scales at a Rail Logistics Facility

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

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

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

70 ft long truck scale for rail logistics

Intermodal Travel for Containers or Trailers

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

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

What Does 5000 x 1 Mean? Scale Capacity x Readability

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We’re going to discuss something that many folks wonder about the first couple of times they are tasked with buying scales.

What Does it Mean when you see 5000 x 1 on a Scale?

If you’ve done any research at all online for scales, you’ve probably seen something written like 5000 x 1, or perhaps you’ve requested a quote and seen that number written. Either way, you may be wondering what these mean. 5000 x 1 lb, or it could be 60 x 0.02lb or it may have been 3000 g by 0.01g. 120,000 x 20 lb, 500 x 0.1 lb etc….

600 x 0.1 LB

 

 

But what exactly does that mean? It’s actually pretty simple.

In the case of 5000 x 1 lb, this means that the total weighing capacity of the scale is 5000 pounds and the scale increases or decreases in weight by 1 lb increments from zero all the way to 5000 lb.

Some people refer to the 1 lb in this example as the readability or the graduation size. In the 60 x 0.02 lb example, it would be as follows, 60 lb is the capacity and 0.02 lb is the graduation size that the scale increases or decreases by from zero all the way to 60 lb. Continue reading →

How Does a Load Cell Work?

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

What is a Load Cell?

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

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

how does a load cell work

How Do Load Cells Work?

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

Importance of Vehicle Scales at Solid Waste Facilities

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

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

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

rice lake truck scales for solid waste facility

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

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.

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.

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.

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 has helped you better understand the 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. The Rice Lake version is generally more consistent, accurate, and serviceable with load cells that can actually be replaced if necessary. Please contact our sales department if you need any assistance or quotes on our products.