Tool Reviews

Scale device

Scales are designed to measure the mass of goods, goods, products, people and animals. Systems can be automatic, semi-automatic or mechanical. According to the principle of operation, measuring units are divided into three categories:

• Hydraulic scales. The algorithm of operation of hydraulic mechanisms is based on the operation of piston or membrane cylinders. The pressure from the mass is transmitted through the cylinders to the fluid that is inside the piston or membrane.

The load from the physical volume is fixed by a manometer.

• lever scales. The design of the mechanism consists of several levers interconnected by earrings or steel prisms. Gravitational balancing works on the principle of a rocker arm. Lever mechanisms are divided into square and prismatic.
• Tensometric scales. Tensometric scales work on the basis of sensors, the internal resistor changes resistance from deformation.

The principle of operation of portable and stationary measuring mechanisms is based on balancing the moment created by mass pressure.

When it is necessary to measure bulk cargo of a large volume, then special electric trolleys with a forklift are used. With pressure, the force is transferred to the prisms and levers.

In electronic scales, balancing occurs automatically. There is no lever system in this mechanism. The design of electronic mechanisms is arranged in such a way that the weighted value is converted into current or voltage.

Such units can be connected to other measuring and computing devices.

The built-in microprocessor allows to achieve a high level of automation, and also provides the ability to expand the functionality of the measuring device.

Types and characteristics of scales

Scales are classified according to their purpose into types:

• Laboratory. The main parameter of a laboratory measuring unit is accuracy. Precision have a discreteness from one gram to one milligram, analytical – no more than 0.1 milligram.

There are brands of devices with additional options. These include dynamic weighing, which involves measuring animals or non-static objects. Hydrostatic weighing involves determining the mass of liquids.

Laboratory measuring instruments are also subdivided according to the type of calibration into devices with automatic calibration, internal weight and external weight.

• Scales of simple weighing. The unit with an electronic mechanism is a compact mechanism that allows you to measure small loads. Such devices include scales for control weighing, packing and portioning.

The latter are used for simple mass measurement that does not require high accuracy, where additional functionality is not needed.

• Trading. They are used to measure the mass of goods, for packaging, for portion weighing, with the subsequent calculation of the amount based on the price per unit. This model has a display located on the stand or on the body of the device.

• Counting. This model has three panels with displays that display additional information about the measured samples.

The first display shows the total weight, the second shows the value of one sample, and the third shows the number of these samples.

The electronic unit is used to measure various loads. Such models usually have additional functionality:

• waterproof for rooms with high humidity;
• corrugated surface of the platform, which allows you to measure the mass of unstable loads; the possibility of weighing large loads;
• a device with an additional power supply that measures mass while away from the mains.
• Medical. This model of the device is intended for use for medical purposes, namely for measuring and controlling the body weight of patients.

Baby measuring devices are a cradle in which the baby is placed, and the display on the main panel shows the result.

• Crane. Such scales belong to the warehouse category, they are used for weighing loads up to 50 tons. The design of the crane scale is very durable, it consists of a metal case with an indicator of indicators and a powerful hook.
• Platform. Structurally, this model is a platform, the indicator is installed either in a wall or on a rack.

• Industrial. This model is used to measure the mass of goods of any size and volume, and also solves many problems. There are two groups of such devices: electronic and mechanical.

Currently, all enterprises use only electronic versions of scales, mechanical devices are already considered obsolete, since they are inferior to modern ones in terms of reliability and price.

• Packing. Such devices are classified as simple, they are used by devices for weighing a small mass of goods not exceeding 35 kilograms.
• Electronic with receipt stamp. No modern supermarket can do without such devices. Printing a label on a product in automatic mode improves the quality of customer service.

Scales not only measure the mass of products and issue labels with a barcode and other information, but also keep records, store all kinds of parameters in memory.

• Pallet. Such scales are designed for weighing goods on pallets.

The design of the pallet measuring device allows using four sensors to determine the weight of the cargo and display the data on the display located on the designated terminal.

These devices are used at wholesale depots, in industrial shops, at customs, at trade enterprises and in logistics centers.

• Car weights. This category of scales is designed to measure the mass of the car – both laden and empty. Weighing methods are different, it all depends on the application, design and other parameters of the device.
• Luggage scales. The luggage weight measurement unit is the simplest type of scale. There are mechanical models and electronic ones.

The mechanism is a simple compact device that easily fits in your hand, the load is hung on a hook, and the display shows the result. Pocket scales are easy to take with you.

• kitchen scales. A device for measuring the mass of products is necessary in the kitchen of a real housewife, who observes the accuracy in the proportions and quantities of ingredients for preparing delicious dishes.

Classification of weighing measuring instruments by type of installation:

• Stationary
• Suspended
• mobile
• floor standing
• Desktop
• Embedded

According to the accuracy class, measuring devices are divided into three types:

• high class of accuracy,
• middle;
• normal.

According to the type of lifting mechanism, groups are distinguished:

• Bunker
• Rail
• Platform
• Conveyor
• Hook
• Bucket

Additional options

Some models of weighing instruments have additional options:

• Taro compensation. This option allows you to make weight measurements without tare. Before weighing, it is necessary to put an empty container on the scales, then reset the result to zero, and then weigh the load together with the container.

In electronic and mechanical kitchen scales, this parameter helps to accurately determine any bulk and liquid products.

• Sequential weighing. The sequential weighing option is designed to find out the total number of kilograms of products weighed in turn. When resetting, intermediate results remain in the instrument’s memory.
• Kitchen scales with volume measurement liquids. This function allows you to measure liquid in milliliters.
• Height measurement. In some medical measuring devices, a height meter is additionally attached.

• Voice notification. This option is rare. The unit reports its actions with sound signals and voice.
• Clock. Electronic devices are often equipped with a built-in clock.
• Calculation of body mass index. This option is installed in specialized scales. To find out the index, you need to enter height data and weigh yourself, the device will automatically give the result.

For people who are losing weight, a device with such a function will be indispensable. Daily monitoring of not only weight, but also the mass index will allow you to achieve your goal faster, and the result will be more effective.

• calorie calculator. Kitchen scales with calorie counting are equipped with a special counter for several tens and even thousands of products (the size of the list depends on the model of the device).

Selecting the desired product from the proposed list and weighing it, you will see the calorie content on the display. Such units are perfect for people who monitor the number of calories consumed. A good floor scale solution for the whole family.

• Synchronization with PC/phone. This option allows you to transfer the data received from the scales to a computer or phone.
• Automatic shutdown. When the device is not in use, it automatically turns off.

Diagnostic

Diagnostic measurements in electronic scales allow you to determine physical indicators, which leads to effective weight loss. All received data is stored in the device memory.

Diagnostic floor scales perform measurements in such a way that signals pass through the entire body of a person when he stands on the surface of the measuring unit. Electrical signals are completely safe for health, as they are very weak.

The device draws conclusions about the tissues in the body based on the difference in signal resistance.

Parameters measured by diagnostic scales:

• Body mass
• Fat mass
• Muscle mass
• bone mass
• Visceral fat
• Water
• calories
• Internal age
• Dynamics of physical development

Each indicator has certain standards. In order for the results to correspond to reality, it is necessary to weigh daily at the same time, three hours after eating. It is important to stand on the instrument panel with bare feet so that there is direct contact.

kitchen

In kitchen scales, two types of containers are used: either a platform or a bowl. Anything can be measured on the platform, even long products. With the tare compensation option, the measurement can be made in an additional vessel. In kitchen scales with a bowl bulk and liquid products are weighed.

Bowls and platforms in kitchen scales can be made of glass, wood, steel or food-grade plastic:

• Plastic does not absorb odors, durable, does not have its own smell.
• Steel will not rust, but it is better not to use soda and vinegar in such containers.
• Glass is the best option, considered durable, acid resistant.
• Wood retains the taste of food, but the material is short-lived.

Maximum load

The maximum load that the measuring device can withstand is set individually for each category of scales. In electronic kitchen scales, this is 2 kilograms, and production crane units take on a load of 50 tons. There are models of kitchen scales with a load of up to 5 kg.

Advantages

Advantages of mechanical measuring instruments:

• The mechanism is easy to use.
• Long service life.
• Structural strength.
• Low price compared to electronic models.
• There are no batteries that require regular replacement.
• There are no special storage requirements.

Advantages of electronic measuring instruments:

• Additional options (memory, the ability to calculate body mass index and others).
• Measurement accuracy at the highest level.
• There are no bulky elements, compactness in comparison with mechanical units.
• Automatically when disconnected, the product is set to the zero position.
• Fashion design.
• High load limit.
• Automatic shutdown and inclusion when touching the surface.
• Quite a large assortment offered by manufacturers.

disadvantages

Disadvantages of mechanical measuring instruments:

• Modern technologies are not used in the production of measuring mechanisms.
• Measurement accuracy is not at the highest level.
• There are no additional features.

Disadvantages of electrical measuring instruments:

• Batteries that need to be changed from time to time.
• The high cost of the device, and the more additional options it has, the higher the price.
• The device requires careful handling and storage, there is a risk of damage to electronic components.
• Difficulty in repair in case of breakdowns.

How to choose scales

When choosing a device for home use, you should follow some recommendations:

• First, it is important to check in which units of measurement the device operates. Not all devices determine the mass in kilograms, there are imported models with a measuring system in pounds. Perhaps you need pounds.
• Next, you need to verify the accuracy of the measurements of the device. Right in the store, make sure that a pack of kilogram granulated sugar weighs exactly one kilogram. For verification, test on several models. Buy a device with a minimum error.
• A device with a corrugated surface is much more convenient, the weighed load will not slip. Also look for a non-slip bottom, rubber pads at the bottom are possible.

• When buying a unit for a bathroom, sauna or pool, take a model with a waterproof case. Electronic models without this protection will fail very quickly.
• When choosing the material from which the floor options are made, give preference to metal. When buying kitchen weighing devices, choose a device with a glass bowl.
• Mechanical floor scales can be checked for accuracy on site. Press the surface with your hand and release your hand abruptly. In a quality device, the arrow returns immediately back to zero.
• If you can’t see well, buy a device with large numbers. There are also options with a separately displayed scoreboard.

Which is better

Which measuring units are better – electronic or mechanical? There is no definite answer, since each species has its own buyer.

It is enough for one person to simply know their body weight with an error within one kilogram, for another it is important to know about the minimum fluctuations in weight and control other parameters, such as body mass index, the amount of water, fat, bone mass.

Before buying, it is recommended to compare all the disadvantages and advantages of the presented types of weighing devices, and you yourself will understand what is best for you.

How to use

It is necessary to use measuring units in accordance with the instructions supplied with the purchase.

• It is important to initially install the device correctly on a flat surface so that the readings are more accurate. For adjustment and alignment, a building level is used.

There are models in which the level is built in, you only need to tighten the adjusting legs. The air bubble should be in the center of the control ring.

• The mechanism must be stable and must not wobble when in use. With the correct installation of the measuring unit, the arrow shows zero on the dial.

Also, in dial mechanical measuring devices, the frequency of oscillation of the arrow is adjusted, for this the damper rotates in a certain direction.

• Readings from a mechanical device are taken while facing directly to the dial. It is forbidden to cut and pack products on the platform.

Precautionary measures:

• Do not use the unit for other purposes.
• Handle with care as the measuring mechanism is a precision instrument.
• Do not use in hazardous areas using flammable liquids and gases.
• Do not use the device in an area affected by electromagnetic or electrostatic waves, as the readings will be incorrect.
• You cannot disassemble the device yourself.

Guarantee

The warranty period is usually several years, during which time the warranty card must be kept. The coupon specifies the date of purchase, the brand of goods and the store’s seal is required (note that the coupon is invalid without a seal).

If during the service period any damage to the device occurs due to the fault of the manufacturer, then the repair is carried out at the expense of the seller. It is important that the unit is operated in accordance with the conditions specified in the instructions.

The warranty does not apply in the following cases:

• Defects arose in the event of force majeure (power surges, traffic accidents, fire or natural disasters).
• The operating conditions specified in the manual are violated.
• If the buyer independently or with the help of third parties repaired the product.
• Failure to comply with safety standards.
• Making changes to the design of the product by the buyer.

• Damage due to improper transportation of goods by the buyer. If the delivery is carried out by the manufacturer or seller, then the guarantee is valid.
• The presence of mechanical damage on the body or platform of the device.
• Use of equipment at high humidity (over 90%) and elevated temperatures over 25 degrees.
• Penetration of liquid, dust, insects or other foreign objects into the mechanism of the product.
• In case of equipment breakdown due to the use of low-quality or expired parts.

Also, the warranty does not apply to components and individual structural elements.

Faults

During operation of the measuring unit, malfunctions are periodically possible. You can fix the problems yourself:

• If there is no indication on the display, the machine may not be connected to the network. Or the batteries are out of order, in which case they must be replaced with working batteries.
• If the weighing result is incorrect, the calibration or zeroing may not have been performed.
• In case of problems with the power cord, you can replace the electric plug or simply clean the contacts.

Spare parts for a specific model are purchased in specialized stores that are focused on the sale of such units.

Manufacturers offer additional components for measuring devices: buttons, indicators, legs, keyboard stickers, transformers, platform shock absorbers, platforms themselves, sensors, power supplies, voltage stabilizers.

Scale Manufacturers

Bosch

Bosch offers customers about a dozen different models of floor measuring devices. The official website contains all possible options. The design is stylish, the case is thin.

In addition to weighing units, the company sells all kinds of household appliances: automatic washing machines, food processors, washing vacuum cleaners, dishwashers, etc. The manufacturer gives a ten-year warranty on their products.

Maxwell

Maxwell presents a wide range of measuring equipment: electronic and mechanical home floor scales, as well as kitchen devices. The company’s website offers to buy any option you like.

The company is engaged in the production of any household appliances: for the kitchen, for house cleaning, for beauty and health.

Polaris

Polaris sells a variety of measuring devices: desktop and wall-mounted kitchen scales, as well as floor scales for weighing people. The site contains all the necessary information on this product.

The company also sells climate control equipment, water heaters, household appliances, heating radiators and crockery. Modern design developments and a unique approach to consumers are an integral part of the company’s activities.

scarlett

Scarlett offers home and kitchen appliances, health and beauty products. The site presents mechanical and electronic models of measuring devices.

The models of this company are distinguished by their bright design, there is a collection of scales with Disney comics.

Supra

Supra offers a wide range of kitchen measuring devices and floor standing units. The official website of the company will allow you to get acquainted with the entire range of products.

Tefal

Tefal sells household appliances, including measuring units. The presented models on the site look aesthetically pleasing and elegant. The product is guaranteed by the manufacturer.

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