How to Buy Professional Grade Food Service Kitchen Scales

Posted on September 5, 2024 by Scale Man

Where do you start when shopping for a commercial grade food service kitchen scale? When purchasing a scale for your kitchen or restaurant, the options can be overwhelming.

We offer a range of foodservice scales that can be used for a variety of weighing needs including portion control, batching, and even parts counting. In order to determine which scale is best for you, start by asking yourself the following questions.

First, start with basic application questions about how you will be using the commercial kitchen scale. What do you want to do with the scale? What weight capacity are you looking for? What weight increments will you need the scale to read in? For example a hundredth of a pound or a tenth of a pound. Will you need the scale to read in pounds, ounces, kilograms, grams, or pounds and ounces? Will you be buying or selling over this scale? If so, your scale will need to be legal for trade. Will your scale need to be NSF certified?

Then, ask yourself more product specific questions about what requirements your scale will need to meet. Do you need a stainless steel scale? Will you be washing the scale down? And if so, how often? How large of a weighing platform will you need? Will the scale need to be readable from a distance? Are there any other functions you’re looking for? Such as Checkweighing, grading, piece counting, etc.

Other questions to ask yourself include: Are you looking for a scale with communication capability? Such as USB, Serial, Bluetooth, etc.) Will the scale be picked up and/or moved frequently? Is update speed or filtering a factor in weighing your products? Would a bowl on your scale make weighing easier? If so, do you want the bowl permanently attached? Or do you need it to be removable?

Are Mechanical or Digital Kitchen Scales Better?

We offer a variety of Yamato mechanical and digital scale models. Choosing between mechanical and digital often comes down to personal preferences, yet there are distinct advantages to each option.

Mechanical Scales operate without power, cords, or cumbersome setups. This makes them effortlessly portable. These scales are durable and some can even withstand regular washdowns.

Digital Scales are renowned for their accuracy and rapid measurement capabilities. While they require power, they offer versatility with multiple measurement units such as pounds, ounces, kilograms, and gram modes. Furthermore, they often come equipped with advanced features like check weighing, grading, and batching to cater to more diverse needs. Water resistant options are also available.

Answering the questions outlined in this video and considering if you prefer a mechanical scale or a digital scale is a good place to start when shopping for a new commercial kitchen scale. Our commercial weighing experts can help guide you to the right scale model that will best meet your needs. Complete the RFQ form on our website to get started.

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

Posted on August 27, 2024 by Kevin Lamberth

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.

#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.

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.

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

Grain Testing Scales for Sample Houses

Posted on July 25, 2024 by Scale Man

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.

Precision Mastery: Top Grain Weighing Scales for Perfect Brewing Balance

Posted on March 12, 2024 by Scale Man

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

Grain scales enhance brewing precision by ensuring accurate measurements of ingredients, which is crucial for maintaining consistent beer quality, taste, and alcohol content across batches.
The selection of the right grain scale involves considering factors such as the brewery’s size, weight capacity and durability needs, with features like stainless steel components, tare function, and IP66 rating or higher for cleanliness and ease of maintenance.
Advancements in grain weighing technology, like digital scales with high precision and integration capabilities, support brewing efficiency, consistency, and help in scaling production while minimizing human error and labor.

The Essential Role of Grain Scales in Brewing

Brewing equipment including grain scales

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

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

Precision Meets Practicality

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

They yield more precise measurements than those based on volume.
Their expansive plate comfortably supports grain containers.
The digital display remains visible for easy reading while blending functionality with accuracy.

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

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

The Tare Function Advantage

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

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

Selecting the Right Grain Scale for Your Brewery

THBC Tank Scale Load Cells for placing under the tank legs

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

5 Ways Food & Beverage Industry Companies Benefit from Waterproof Scales

Posted on March 7, 2024 by Scale Man

When it comes to the food & beverage industry, cleanliness is extremely important and there’s rarely room for equipment downtime. Given that weighing ingredients and keeping the weighing scales you use clean can be quite messy, it’s important to use an electronic scale that can withstand harsh environments and won’t let you down.

Please see our selection of waterproof bench scales. Below are the top 5 benefits that companies enjoy from using our washdown safe scales.

#1 NSF Certified Weighing Equipment

One of the biggest benefits of our waterproof scales is that many of the scales are NSF Approved. Many of our washdown products meet strict standards for public health protection. You can use them when dealing with food and beverages safely.

stainless steel portion weigher The Aqua stainless steel scale lineup offers check weighing, percentage weighing and parts counting, while the Gladiator range offers those as well as check counting, dynamic/animal weighing, and a helpful Hold function.

These applications can be exceptionally helpful in the food and drink industry. Dynamic weighing and the hold function on the Gladiator can be particularly useful when dealing with cans, bottles or barrels filled with liquid. Since it’s moving around inside, you don’t want to have to wait for the liquids to settle before weighing, so the dynamic weighing feature takes an average weight to solve this issue.

Checkweighing can be used to help make sure that each completed product, such as peach pies, are within acceptable limits and not under or over filled. Parts counting can help pack bags or boxes with the same amount of product – bags of candy should have the same number of pieces in each!

checkweighing

#2 Full Protection from Water Ingress

Some customers and scale companies like to use the term waterproof scales. We prefer washdown scales. A waterproof scale is generally a scale that has an ingress protection (IP) rating of at least 68 (IP68). This means that it’s fully protected against solids (6) and liquids ( 8) getting inside and messing up the hardware.

Technically, you can immerse a waterproof scale with an IP68 rating in depths of water over one meter for an extended period. For more information about IP ratings, check out our past entry how much does a waterproof scale cost?

Many ingredients are made of liquid and if there are any spillages, there’s no need to worry about the safety of your waterproof scale. Dry or wet, it will operate exactly as it was designed.

One note about scale enclosures and ratings… If you’re a food processing facility and you have internal maintenance workers who can do basic scale work… Remember, you can have the highest IP rated equipment ever made, but if your maintenance department either leaves screws loose or completely off the equipment, water will get inside no matter how great your IP rated equipment is.

adam gladiator bench scale

#3 Durable and Easy to Clean Weighing Equipment

Another benefit of waterproof scales is that when spills happen, they’re very easy to clean. IP68 rated waterproof scales can handle low temperature water jets. If you need to take your scale out back and hose it down, your washdown safe scale is capable of handling that.

Cross contamination can also become a real issue, especially when dealing with perishables like meat, fish, or dairy. Scales used for weighing these items should be cleaned thoroughly with soap or gentle cleansers every day to maintain hygiene standards. This way, you’ll protect consumers from the threat of food poisoning or unhealthy bacteria caused by build-up on a dirty food scale.

We’ve established that waterproof scales are protected from water, which obviously makes them pretty durable. However, most of our selection of waterproof scales are constructed from high quality Grade 304 stainless steel, which has quite a few benefits as well.

Many components of the foods and beverages we eat and drink are acidic, and could cause damage to a less durable scale over time. Grade 304 stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion, so frequent contact with corrosive liquids will not be a hindrance to your operations.

stainless steel waterproof nsf scale

In general, metals like mild steel or cast-iron rust easily when left in contact with liquids for too long. Stainless steel is much less susceptible to rusting. For example, the Adam Equipment Aqua ABW-S features stainless steel housing and pan, making it durable top to bottom. Also, the Gladiator series is constructed from a stainless-steel platform as well as the stainless steel IP68 AE 403 indicator, both of which can be purchased individually or combined in one scale system.

#4 Scales That can be Used Outdoors

Many waterproof weighing scales include rechargeable batteries. This can be an extremely helpful feature when harvesting fruits and vegetables at a farm, orchard, or wine vineyard. Harvesting staff can effectively organize produce by weight, which any grocery store or farmer’s market will appreciate.

If many of the boxes of produce weigh about the same, or if you organize the produce from heaviest to lightest, this makes it easier to calculate prices later. We offer a wide variety of NTEP approved scales so you can legally use them to set prices for your products according to weight.

The durability of waterproof scales, with their protection against water, dirt, and corrosion, make them perfect outdoor tools. Is it starting to rain? No need to pack up your scale. Are the vegetables dirty? Get as much dirt off as possible, since dirt weighs something too. But, best of all, if the scale gets dirty, just wash it off when you can.

Don’t forget about washdown floor scales and/or floor scales that can be placed outdoors and can handle the elements such as rain and snow.

industrial floor scale

#5 Overall Great Value for Your Investment

Waterproof scales are convenient, improving operational efficiency with less effort and fuss. They have superior longevity, preventing you from needing to frequently replace your scale. These days there are cheap scales everywhere, with little to no quality control. Be sure to trust the buying advice of your trusted scale company and reputable scale manufacturers.

A slightly higher price is worth long-lasting peace of mind (see value vs accuracy). And many of our washdown safe scales come with high quality components, longer warranty periods, and impressive weighing accuracy.

Do you need some help deciding on a “waterproof” scale? Contact our sales team for assistance.

Continue reading →

How Weighing Scales are Utilized in the Organics Recycling and Compost Manufacturing Sector

Posted on February 20, 2024 by Scale Man

The impact of weight scales for organics recycling and compost manufacturing is critical to the success of any sustainability initiative. Users searching for the right scales are typically looking to refine accuracy, manage waste volumes, and ensure the quality of the compost produced.

This article delves into the key roles these weighing scales play in the industry, from smaller kitchen compost setups to large-scale operations, shedding light on their essential contribution to an accurate eco-friendly composting process.

Important Points

Organics recycling includes home, community, and industrial composting, each serving different levels of organic waste management, with industrial composting playing a crucial role in urban waste management strategies.
Lots of industries use scales throughout production. In organics recycling and compost manufacturing, weight plays an important role from waste inventory tracking and maintenance, to waste disposal and sustainable initiatives. Weighing and process-control equipment help waste-industry businesses improve overall efficiency.
Composting transforms organic waste into a resource that improves soil fertility and supports sustainable agriculture, while innovations in composting equipment and data-driven operations enhance the efficiency and quality of the compost production process.

Understanding the Spectrum of Organics Recycling

There are various methods of managing organic waste, each with its own advantages and challenges. Organics recycling includes three main techniques: home composting for individual use, industrial composting on a larger scale, and community composting as a collective effort to make an impact at the local level.

These approaches play an essential role in promoting eco-friendly practices by transforming organic waste into valuable material like compost. Some examples of what can be turned into nutrient-rich soil through this process include food scraps, garden waste, food soiled paper and grass clippings.

By choosing to engage in any form of organic recycling such as these mentioned above, you have the power to contribute towards an economy that values sustainability. Converting materials like kitchen leftovers or lawn trimmings into usable resources for enriching soil fertility makes your efforts impactful both locally within your community and globally overall.

Home Composting: A Personal Approach

Home composting is a straightforward and effective method for managing organic waste at home. It involves an aerobic process that naturally breaks down food scraps and garden waste into nutrient-rich soil amendments.

The success of home composting relies on maintaining the right balance of four elements: carbon-rich “browns,” nitrogen-rich “greens,” water, and air. These components create ideal conditions for microorganisms to facilitate the composting process. One example of this technique is worm farming, which uses worms to break down food scraps and food waste resulting in high-quality soil amendment.

Aside from reducing household waste, home composting also has positive effects on mitigating climate change by improving soil health. By diverting organic materials away from landfills where they release methane gas as they decompose without oxygen present.

To be beneficial for our environment, such practices provide us with another way we can turn what would otherwise become “waste” or leftovers back into productive material. Hence showing how sustainable it could be if everyone embraced simple acts like these. Continue reading →

Slice Your Expenses: A Deep Dive into Pizza Ingredient Costs Management

Posted on January 23, 2024 by Scale Man

Discover how to manage pizza ingredient costs without skimping on flavor. This practical guide breaks down the prices of dough, cheese, and toppings, and provides actionable tips for cost-conscious pizza enthusiasts or business owners. Dive into an analysis of ingredients expenses and uncover strategies to optimize your pizza-making budget.

Key Takeaways

Ingredient costs for pizza vary widely with dough varying per pizza and toppings like muenster cheese and meat being costlier than vegetables with significant markup rates.
Minimizing pizza ingredient costs involves selecting cost-effective ingredients, buying in bulk while managing storage, and using technology, such as ingredient scales for consistent portioning.
Pizza profitability is influenced by managing food and operational costs. Most pizza restaurants can make a decent profit, and with strategies like smart inventory management, supplier negotiation, and portion control, can possibly increase profits and assist with cost reduction.

Breaking Down the Basics: Pizza Ingredient Costs Explained

pizza ingredients

Navigating the realm of pizza expenses is akin to embarking on a grandiose voyage through various components, each contributing its own distinct taste to the price structure, much like the ingredients in a deliciously crafted pie. The type and amount of ingredients used as well as the size of the pizza can all impact its cost.

Feeling overwhelmed? Do not worry, we are here to provide guidance through this complex world of costs!

The Price of Perfect Dough

pizza toppings

The foundation of a pizza is its crust. This wide range of pizza crust costs can be attributed to the various ingredients used in making the dough, such as high gluten flour, sea salt and yeast. These ingredient prices have a significant impact on the total cost of creating the perfect crust for your pizza. (At CCS we’d recommend checking out a bakers scale and scale scoops). Larger pizzas require more dough and result in higher ingredient costs – so don’t forget that when you order an extra large size!

Sauce Economics

Shifting our cost analysis to the sauce component of pizza, we find that a key factor in creating a delicious pie is often the quality of its tomato sauce. Various factors such as ingredient quality and market fluctuations can significantly impact the costs associated with this crucial element. Continue reading →

Scales with Rechargeable Battery Usually Recommended

Posted on November 14, 2023 by Scale Man

We’re going to discuss the top benefits of buying a scale with a built in internal rechargeable battery. Many scales on the market today contain internal rechargeable batteries. Why would you choose battery power over the simplicity plugging your scale into a wall outlet? Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of a rechargeable battery powered scale.

battery powered scale

No Electricity? No Problem…

Whether you need to work somewhere without a convenient electrical outlet or the power has temporarily gone out, you’ll be able to perform weighing tasks without missing a beat with a battery powered scale. Be mindful of when the battery needs to be recharged. The last thing you want is to lose power while working in the field.

Easy Mobility

Without the need to rely on a power cord while working, your scale can be anywhere you need it to be. For example, are you taking inventory? You can transport an easy to carry portable counting scale throughout your warehouse and save time. Be sure to store your rechargeable scales somewhere convenient at the end of each workday. And if you know that you’re going to be using the weight scale where there is no AC power, be sure to charge the portable scales overnight so you’ll have 100% battery life.

Sharing a Scale

If they aren’t using it all day every day, employees at different workstations or in different areas of your facility can share the same device since it’s battery powered and fairly easy to transport.

“Economical batteries” can be expensive…

Think of your kid’s toys and every remote control in the house, but rechargeable batteries can be charged hundreds of times or more before ever needing to be replaced. In some cases, over time, your scale can actually pay for itself in battery savings. And electric rates are lower in some localities at night, so recharging scales overnight also offers another opportunity for savings.

Do you need some help selecting the right battery powered scale? Browse our website and contact us (919) 776-7737 You can see all the portable scales that we offer. And if you need some assistance, we’re just an email or a call away.

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

Posted on November 7, 2023 by Scale Man

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

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

The Importance of Corrosion-Resistant Weighing Equipment

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

weight indicator

Meeting Industry Demands: A Focus on Reliability

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

Accurate Measurements for Quality Control

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

Ensuring Operator Safety

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

cardinal scale thbc brewery tank scales

Scales for Chemical Processors

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

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

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

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

Choosing the Right Scale for Specific Applications

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

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

Innovations in Weighing Technology

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

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

Recycling: A Sustainable Pathway to a Thriving Society

Posted on September 19, 2023 by Scale Man

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

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

Resource Conservation

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

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Energy Savings

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

Waste Reduction and Landfill Diversion

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

Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction

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

Job Creation and Economic Growth

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

steel deck above ground truck scale

Promoting Sustainable Consumption

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

Preserving Biodiversity

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

Community Engagement and Environmental Education

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

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