Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Type of Scale – Currently there are three types of scales being offered today

Mechanical – This is the oldest type of scale available. The advantages are lower cost of maintenance and replacement part and longer life expectancy. The disadvantages are most designs require a pit installation and there are currently only three companies that still manufacture a mechanical scale.
Electronic Scales – This is the preferred type of scale being sold by scale companies today. The scale is designed with 8-10 load cells that sense the pressure being applied to the weigh bridge. The advantages are the low profile design and it is the most understood by servicing scale companies. The disadvantages are expensive, often unnecessary scale repairs, susceptibility to lightning and surges, and downtime when parts aren’t readily available .
Hydraulic Scales – This is most reliable and durable type of scale being manufactured today. The electronic load cell is replaced with a hydraulic compression canister which is connected to pressure transducers or a single load cell (depending on the manufacturer). There are no mechanical or electronic components located under the scale deck to go out or be destroyed. The major advantages are life time warranty on the load cells, no susceptibility to lightning or surges, and much lower maintenance costs. The drawback of this scale is limited brands and dealers available ( make sure you deal with a reputable scale dealer with plenty of references.

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