A scale that is used to measure the weight of a load as it is lifted—usually by a crane, hoist, or winch—is called a crane scale. This type of scale is suspended from a crane or cable in the air and its measurements are extremely accurate due to the fact that it isn’t attached to any type of platform. Because a crane scale is hanging in mid air, disruption in the weight measurement is prevented, and the user can be assured of precise readings. Crane scales are used for lifting, force measurement, and weighing applications and are used in transport and logistics, shipping and receiving, overhead weighing in steel, and the aerospace, chemical, marine, mining, and petroleum industries.

Older crane scale designs use hydraulic force to weigh objects. The force applied to a piston or diaphragm transmits it through hydraulic lines to a dial or LED/LCD indicator. More modern designs use load cells, with the must rugged units using all stainless steel construction for the cells.

Crane scales come in many different weight capacities and can measure loads as small as 500 pounds all the way to 30,000 pounds, depending upon the manufacturer and type of scale. The variety of weight capacities enables users to get the right scale for their needs.

A common feature of crane scales is a high-capacity weight hook. The hooks swivels, which offers convenience when weighing large and unwieldy objects. The hook is equipped with a closure to ensure safety and stability for the object being weighed. This closure also ensures the user’s safety because once the object is secure on the hook, he or she can step away to a safe distance when weighing the object (provided the scale has a remote or removable display).

There are a number of different types of crane scale models available, depending on the industry in which it will be used and the weight and measurement needs.

Crane Scales with Integral Display

Crane scales with integral displays display the weight on the scale, usually below the hook. Most displays available today are either LED or LCD, with the numbers typically being around 1” high. The large display is crucial so that the operator can read it at a safe distance away from the object being weighed.

Crane Scales with Remote Display

Crane scales with remote indicators increase the users’ safety. The indicator is separate from the load cell and held by the user. This separation increases the user’s safety since he or she will not have to approach the load to read the weight. The separation also increases the stability of the scale.

Crane Scales with Removable Display

In crane scales with removable displays, the indicator is detached from the load cell and held by the user. Similar to the models with a remote display, the operator can read the weight from a safe distance, which ensures their safety. The scale is also more durable when there is a separation between the hanging load cell and the display.