Crane v floor scales – which one is the best fit for your environment?

Understanding crane scale technology

Crane scales weigh objects that are above the ground.  The crane is typically attached between a hook and the load that is being lifted.

Many think that crane scales are a very practical way of accurately weighing heavy duty, large or awkward loads that cannot be easily placed, or loaded on to a floor or platform scale.

Correct location of the load and use in a controlled environment, will contribute to the degree of weighing accuracy that you secure; it will also affect operator safety, as improperly mounting a crane scale could potentially cause life-changing injuries.

Take care when loading your crane scale

Each time you load your crane scale, you need to be sure that your mounting method is sufficient to support the scale, along with the item being weighed.

In general terms, your overhead structure should be able to support a load which is equal to twice the weight of the scale’s maximum capacity.  But remember to not overload the scale in excess of 20% of the scale’s rated maximum capacity or it could lead to issues.

You should also protect your scales from extreme temperature variations and high humidity; likewise it should be free from environments where dirt, dust and corrosive liquids are present. 

Don’t forget to check the relevant product certification before purchasing to ensure what level of protection your crane scales actually have.  This will avoid disappointment later.

Should I buy floor scales?

When could you possibly need a floor scale?  This might be the case if the items you are planning to lift cannot be done manually.

Most equipment, such as Dini Argeo Weighing Scales by Abacus Weighing Services, is supplied with an on/off ramp, allowing efficient loading and unloading.   That makes them particularly suited to busy industrial environments like warehouses and factories.

Floor scales are available in stainless steel, corrosion-resistant and intrinsically safe options, so ask your supplier for details.

Axle weighing technology in the spotlight

Enhanced mobility

If you work in the industrial weighing industry, you will understand the excitement that many people have shared about the growing development and capabilities of portable axle weighing pads.   Combining versatility with user functionality, scales are suitable for a range of industry environments and applications.

Portable weigh pads have fast become the new industry standard.  In comparison to other static weighing mechanisms, which, to be frank, have proven to be inferior, portable weigh pads provide optimal convenience and efficiency.

Dini Argeo has led the way

Recent developments in portable weighing pads have been the consequence of much research conducted over the years by designers like Dini Argeo, represented in the UK by Abacus Weighing Services. 

They have optimised and finely tuned the portable weighing technology that is now available across the UK, through approved dealers. 

The end result is that businesses are enjoying cost savings, in addition to manpower and time efficiencies. 

Aluminium is a preferred material

Aluminium is many people’s preferred material choice when it comes to portable weigh pads.  Aluminium makes scale systems light and, therefore, extremely portable.  This is a particular advantage in busy automotive workshops and service areas where space is limited and increased mobility enhances working conditions.

One such example of leading weigh pad technology is supplied by Dini Argeo and known as the WWS System.  This can accommodate vehicles up to 60 tonnes.  

The WWS System features a portable weight terminal and is designed with an easy use, backlight LCD interface (so it can be seen).  This allows operators to see and print vehicle weights for payload management. 

Where will the industry go next?

So as Abacus and Dini Argeo continue to break new ground and set new standards across the portable axle weighing industry, they are fast becoming ‘first choice’ as a supply partner.

Stainless scales for tough environments

A robust, reliable material

There are many industries across the UK, where stainless scales are the preferred option. 

In particular, the Food Industry, given the nature of manufacturing and food prep, needs access to accurate, reliable weighing scales that keep on performing and provide protection against contamination with water and liquids.

Resistant to harsh materials

But it’s not just the Food Industry where stainless scales are used.   Many laboratory environments too, where chemicals are present, openly endorse stainless steel as a material that is more resilient to contact with harsh materials.

What is the IP rating system?

When you are looking to purchase any weighing scales from a supplier, whether you are considering stainless steel or aluminium, you need to be aware of the IP rating system as this will confirm the extent of protection your weighing scales provide.

Also known as ‘Ingress Protection’, this rating defines the amount of protection digital scales have, in terms of resisting foreign matters that may have otherwise got inside of the product and caused it to fail.

 Understanding what protection your scales actually have

The first number of the IP rating, relates to the amount of protection a scale has against matters such as dust, and the second parts defines the level of protection against liquids.

The larger the digit, the more protection

To develop that, if the first digit is a 1, then this provides protection against solid matter that is up to 50 mm, whereas if it is rated a 6, it is dust tight.

In relation to the second digit, a rating of 1 provides protection against vertical dripping water, whereas a 9 protects against close-range high pressure, high temperature spray downs.  

What do you really need?

The nature of the environment where you scales are going to be used will dictate the performance properties and features that you really need.  Make sure you do your research.