Bench Scales

Bench scales include a platform that is separated from the weight display with a cord 5 feet or more in length. The weighing capacities can range from 6 lb to 2000 lbs. Some models feature a stainless steel platform, while others have a waterproof surface that enables the user to wash them down after each use. The platforms typically have a low-profile height, which makes it easy to load and unload large containers from the scale.

For automatic filling operations, many types of bench scales can be programmed for specific target weights. The scale operator can input the desired weight of the filled container on the scale’s front panel. A filling device such as a valve, solenoid, screw augur, or vibrating system is then activated to begin the filling operation. When the target weight is reached, the scale will switch off the electronic signal to the fill component.

Because bench scales are used to weigh many types of produce in containers of varying sizes at different times, a useful feature is the ability to store a variety of different target weight values and trickle feed or intermediate values for more than one filling task. Many bench scales enable the scale operator to label each set of target weights with their associated product. When he or she moves on to another product, they can use a menu option to search for it by name or product number. When the next filling operation begins, the target weights can then be automatically implemented.

Platform Scales

Another type of scale that is used to weigh produce in commercial applications is a platform scale. These high-capacity scales are characterized by a large heavy-duty weighing plate, typically made of stainless steel. This ensures the scale will be durable and stable during all types of weighing operations. The display of the platform scale is typically mounted on a pole attached to the platform and many displays are enclosed in a rubber gasket for water resistance. Some platform scales, however, have a display similar to that of a bench scale, with the display being at ground level and separated from the weighing plate via a cord.

Many platform scale models have specialized features such as a stand to elevate the display device, piece counting, water resistance or water proofing, and calibration with internal weights.

Most of the features found in bench scales mentioned above are also found in platform scales—programmable target weights for automatic filling operations as well as the ability to store target weight and trickle feed or intermediate values.

Additionally, the ability to transfer the weight data to a computer is found in both bench and platform scales. Many communication methods are used, from the long-standing, industry standard RS-232 to USB or Ethernet. The data can be stored in the computer in database or spreadsheet format. Reports can be created using this data for later analysis, or for entry into inventory control or accounting systems.

A number of different industries need high capacity scales. Medical establishments often use high capacity scales to weigh larger patients. In addition, high capacity scales are often built to accommodate handicapped patients and are equipped with wheelchair ramps, seats, and railings for people to support themselves. Warehouses also use them to weigh the large objects they are storing and shipping. Research laboratories may also use high capacity scales in their research. Veterinarians, farmers, and ranchers often need industrial scales to measure livestock or crop yields.

There are an endless variety of high capacity scales available on the market today, and many have specific functions that make them ideal for one industry or another. After comparing thousands of scales, however, we determined that the best high capacity scales are the versatile hanging high capacity scales. These crane scales can accurately weight up to 10,000lbs, with 0.1% accuracy in a full load. That in itself is fairly impressive, but these scales also feature a useful digital display and calibration, with push button tare and zero settings. They’re also among the most durable scales we’ve ever encountered. They can definitely withstand the heavy loads that they’ll be weighing, without taking a beating from the material.

We were also impressed with their high capacity platform scales. We were able to get quotes for these up to 30,000 lbs, and definitely recommend these as an alternative for anyone who doesn’t use a crane scale in their operations. These scales looked very sturdy, and their load cells are all made out of the highest grade of stainless steel, so I’m pretty confident that they could withstand just about anything. They’d be easy to clean too, which is a nice bonus.