Key buying considerations – industrial weighing equipment

Do a thorough assessment

If you’re in the market for industrial scales, then you need to do your homework. Rushing into a decision without proper consultation with colleagues, a risk assessment and consideration of operational, environmental and legal requirements could prove risky.

Any investment in new systems or equipment, particularly if it could affect your manufacturing capability, product quality or processes, requires careful planning and execution.

Properly assess all practical, physical and cost considerations

Understanding where and how weighing scales are to be used, is crucial. That means knowing where the scales will be located – ie: do you need floor standing, mobile, bench or worktop scales? Some may even be wall mounted. Many mobile weighing solutions such as portable axle-weighing pads come with a special indicator, or handheld devices. Others come with mounting kits.

Don’t overlook specific product features that could prove useful. For example, if weighing scales are to be used in a restricted access area, a surface that is low maintenance and easy to clean, might be preferable.

ATEX-Weighing solutions

If weighing scales are to be used in potentially flammable, explosive or hazardous environments, then they need to be ATEX-approved, to meet current legislation requirements

Some models are better suited to certain environments than others. For example, stainless scales are commonly used in the food and drink industry, given they are hygienic, can be made wash-proof, right through to water-proof and, therefore, perfect for use in damp, humid and even wet working environments. Your proposed supply partner can provide detailed guidance in this respect.

Talking to colleagues, operational staff and quality control personnel will give you a broad appreciation of what you should be looking for – you can then move forward with confidence, knowing that the equipment you have selected is right for you.

General questions to ask of your preferred supplier:

1.      Period of guarantee

2.      Installation support

3.      Calibration requirements and service provision

4.      Future parts availability and maintenance

5.      Test standards (compliance) and precision

6.      What after-scale care is available

7.      Terms of delivery details

8.      Costs and benefits