How to choose reliable scales up to 5 kg
Choosing scales, first of all, you need to decide on the mass that he is able to weigh. The popular value of this value is 5 kg. On such scales it is easy to determine the portion size, prepare the dough and prepare vegetables for canning. Whole chicken or fish easily falls within the measuring range.
Characteristics of kitchen scales up to 5kg
When choosing scales with a load of up to 5 kg, it is important to decide on other parameters.
Functionality, service life and appearance – these points should be considered when choosing.
When deciding which measuring product to give preference to, it is recommended to adhere to the following course of action:
- Decide what error will give sufficient measurement accuracy.
- Determining the type based on the principle of action.
- Design choice.
- Determination of required additional options.
- Design solution.
- Familiarization with the rules of care and use.
Measurement error
The measurement error is the degree of deviation of the mass from its true value. The accuracy with which they work depends on this characteristic. It is impossible to find out the true value, but you can reduce the error value.
The smaller the division value, the higher the measurement accuracy. Since many recipes contain components in an amount of just a couple of grams, it is advisable to choose with a minimum error.
It should be noted that the smaller the division value, the more expensive the scales.
The minimum value for measurement is also important. The weighing step ranges from 1g to 50g. It is recommended to choose a device that allows you to measure products weighing from 1 g. This will allow you to make not only preparations with a large mass, but also complex culinary dishes, with accurate dosing of spices.
Values such as the maximum allowable weight and measurement error are usually marked on the case, so even without instructions, you can find out these two important characteristics.
Constructions
Kitchen scales are available in two types:
- With flat platform.
The main advantage is the ability to weigh in the dishes that are used for cooking.
In order to obtain accurate and correct values, it is important to know the tare weight in which the product is located.
The zeroing function is useful here: empty dishes are placed on the platform, and the value of the mass indicator is reduced to zero. After that, the container is no longer involved in the measurement process. Another flat surface is suitable for ready-made portions laid out on plates.
Large fruits and vegetables (pumpkin, watermelon) should be placed on a flat plate. Meat, poultry and other products, the size of which may not allow to be placed in a special container, should be rationally placed on the platform.
Suitable for baking lovers. Suitable for mixing multi-component formulations.
Models with removable and non-removable bowls are available. The collapsible design is convenient in operation, as the container can be washed without fear of filling.
There are models that are convenient for storage. It packs itself into a removable bowl, which saves space in the closet.
It is important to understand that flat or bulky items may not fit in the bowl.
A separate measuring scale inside the bowl allows you to determine the weight of the liquid and its volume.
It is impossible to make an unambiguous choice in favor of one or another design. Each of them has pros and cons. And you need to choose one or another scale based on the nature of the dishes being prepared.
Types of kitchen scales up to 5kg
Scales operating in the range up to 5 kg can be divided into 2 categories:
- Mechanical.
- Electronic.
Mechanical scales
These measuring devices, in turn, are:
- Manual.
- Desktop.
Manual (“steelyard”).
These are elementary lever scales. Types of execution in different countries are different, but the essence remains unchanged.
The maximum value that allows you to measure is 10 kg. But there are also “steelyards” with a maximum load of 5 kg.
In some cases, they are convenient (for example, for weighing bags of groceries), but they are not relevant for cooking in a modern kitchen.
Desktop mechanical.
By their design, they are able to measure a large weight (up to 20 kg), but there are models with a lower limit value.
The kitchen does not always need bulky ones, so manufacturers produce more compact models that allow you to measure weight up to 5 kg.
Principle of operation: a spring is installed in them, which, under the action of an object placed on it, stretches, thereby shifting the arrow along the measurement scale.
Many housewives choose this type, as they have a number of positive characteristics:
- Low cost.
- Do not require any power source (neither from the network, nor batteries).
- Resistant to external influences. They are not afraid of water, but in the kitchen this is important.
- Long service life.
- Easy repair. It is possible even at home.
These scales, although they are an old way of measuring, still have not lost their relevance. But they also have disadvantages:
- Large degree of error. For mechanical measuring devices, the accuracy is equal to the division value on the dial. One division is up to 25 grams or more. For high-quality scales, this value is less, but the price of the product then increases significantly.
- Over time, the spring is able to stretch and the measurement error increases.
- Lack of additional options.
Electronic balance
A very popular measuring instrument. It is among this type of scales that the largest selection of products with a maximum weighing weight of up to 5 kg is observed.
They are gradually replacing mechanical structures from the market of goods.
Operating principle.
As the main part in the design of electronic scales, a strain gauge (force sensor) is distinguished.
The sensor is made of elastic material, which is deformed under the influence of gravity. This deformation is converted into electrical resistance (output signal).
The value of which ranges from 0 to 50 mV. The signal is then sent to an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), which converts it into a digital signal. This signal interacts with the microprocessor, which translates the impulse into a quantitative mass value.
This chip is the main part of electronic scales, their “brain”. The microprocessor interacts with the keyboard and display.
Advantages and disadvantages.
Electronic scales confidently occupied a niche among buyers. The advantages, compared with mechanical ones, are obvious:
- Bulky parts (springs) are replaced by a compact load cell. Thanks to this, electronic measuring instruments have become more compact and lighter than their mechanical counterparts.
- They are reliable and durable. Since there are no moving parts, there is no friction force between the parts, and wear is reduced accordingly.
- Resistant to mechanical stress.
- They have a variety of additional options.
- The maximum error of electronic kitchen units is not more than 1 gram.
Among the shortcomings are:
- Requires a power source (mains, batteries or accumulators).
- High purchase price.
- Expensive repairs.
Functions of kitchen scales
Additional options are only possible in the electronic version of the measuring device.
Mechanical, by virtue of their design, cannot perform anything other than their main function.
Electronic models, depending on the complexity, are programmed to perform the following functions:
- Time display mode. When the balance is turned off, the display shows the current date and time.
- Battery charge indication. Used when the scale is powered by batteries or accumulator.
- Overload indication mode. If the weight of the product exceeds the maximum allowable value, then the corresponding inscription appears on the screen.
- Automatic switching on and off. This option keeps the surface and control keys clean, and also saves electricity or battery power. When the set time is not being used, they go into standby mode, turning the display into clock mode.
- sequential weighing. It is useful to use with a multicomponent composition of the product. After each new product, the value is reset, and at the end of the measurement, the total weight of the ingredients used is shown.
- Accounting for tare weight (zeroing). Brings the readings to zero when there is a container on the scales.
- Measurement of liquid volume. This function is possible in mechanical and electronic scales if they are equipped with a special bowl with divisions applied inside, corresponding to the volume of liquid.
- Built-in timer.
- Built-in thermometer.
- Accounting for calories, cholesterol, proteins, carbohydrates and fats in the product.
- Transferring data to a computer or phone. This function is used as part of the smart home project.
Other functions are also possible. It depends on the developer.
Design
A kitchen scale is a device that is often not put away in a closet, but is displayed on a table. Therefore, design in this case is given additional attention. They should harmoniously fit into the interior of the room where they are installed, combine beauty and functionality.
The body material is selected from expensive plastic or metal. This will ensure a pleasant appearance of the product, and durability. Glass and chrome surfaces add chic.
The case material does not affect the operation of the product, so the choice is based on durability and appearance.
There are models produced with rubberized or film-covered buttons – this will provide protection from moisture and eliminate breakage due to water.
Unusual bowl design, patterns on the body and platform, color schemes – every housewife will be able to choose a device to her liking.
Care
Each type of device is individual, but a number of general operating rules apply to any measuring instrument.
- Before starting work, it is required to inspect for the presence of damage. This must be observed for a mains operated machine. If the wires are damaged, the operation is prohibited. When the hull is destroyed, it is not recommended.
- Do not place in direct sunlight or near hot kitchen appliances.
- Water immersion is prohibited. We recommend using a damp cloth or sponge for cleaning and cleaning.
- The use of abrasives scratches the surface and spoils the appearance of the product.
Compliance with these simple rules will allow the device to work without breakdowns.
Scale verification
Verification is the precise calibration of mass values compared to reference weights. The primary and only verification of purpose is carried out at the factory, before sale.
But since during operation the value of the measurement error changes due to defects or design features, it is recommended to check after several years of use.
Faults
Broken devices are those that either do not turn on or show the wrong value of the measured parameter.
Another device is called faulty, in which the measurement error exceeds the documented one.
Reasons for breakdowns:
- Mechanical impact on scales.
- Violation of operating conditions.
- Marriage admitted at the factory.
There are two types of repair:
- Middle. Calibration. Applies if the settings are disabled. Passes without replacing parts.
- Capital. Replacement of components and mechanisms is required.
It is subdivided into:
- Warranty. If the failure occurred due to the fault of the manufacturer.
- Not guaranteed. The fault of the buyer has been proven.
The service department determines the type of repair. In case of disputable situations, it is possible to contact the factory.
A kitchen scale is a useful item in the kitchen. The choice is determined by the technical characteristics and aesthetic preferences of the buyer. Each hostess decides for herself what parameters to be guided by so that the device works with maximum efficiency and pleases with its appearance.
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