In this article we’ll give you a brief guide to platform scales, with a focus on answering two main questions: what is a platform scale? and how do platform scales work?
What is a platform scale?
If you’ve never used a platform scale before, the first question you should ask yourself is what is a platform scale? A platform scale – or what is sometimes called a weighing scale – is a weighing machine that comes equipped with its platform to hold and weigh heavier objects that more mainstream scales aren’t equipped to manage. They are designed specifically to measure an object or piece of equipment from top to bottom accurately with their wide surfaces.
Can platform scales be customised?
One of the biggest benefits of using a platform scale over another type of scale is that they can be designed specifically to meet your customer’s requirements and specifications. Another benefit of using a platform scale over other scale is the sheer size of the weighing platform. You can measure the weight of a larger, bulkier item much more accurately and efficiently than other scales one might use in a factory setting.
Why use a platform scale?
A platform scale can be used in a variety of different industries, rather than simply in one industry alone. For instance, a platform scale may be of use in:
- Hospitality
- Pharmaceuticals
- Health and fitness
- Veterinary clinics
- Construction
- Logistics
- Farming and agriculture
Are platform scales more durable and adaptable than others on the market?
Platform scales can be a lot more durable and adaptable than other models of scales. As previously mentioned, platform scales can be adapted or customised to your customer’s needs – be it on a construction site or in another industry. This is one of the biggest benefits of using a platform scale.
How are platform scales more beneficial to workplace health and safety?
When using a platform scale for heavier machinery or equipment, it can be a lot more beneficial in terms of occupational or workplace health and safety requirements. This is largely because of their ability to be customised to your or your customer’s specific needs. They can be mobile when required, meaning you don’t have to physically lift an object and place it on the scale to get an accurate measurement of the equipment or object.
As such, it can also be considered as a lot more efficient than other scales available to those in industries that use equipment that is more heavy duty. Their sturdy construction and ability to hold bulkier items like pallets is also quite useful.
They’re also a lot easier to maintain, but do require regular servicing and cleaning, which is where we come in.
How do platform scales work?
When discovering a platform scale, you may wonder ‘how do platform scales work’, specifically in their ability to give a more accurate measurement and weight. A modern platform scale works by measuring load cells.
There are four main types of load cells which may feature in a custom-built platform scale:
- Pneumatic load cells
- Hydraulic
- Strain gauge
- Capacitance load cells
This is different to the older balance beam scales which relied on a lot more manual manipulation.
A platform scale considers the force gauge – an electrical current of sorts that indicates the load weight has changed. When the weight is placed upon a platform scale, the load cell bends as the weight is transferred, hereby measuring with accuracy the weight of the load. It is digital so requires regular updates to ensure the software and digital components are running correctly.
If it’s been a while since you’ve had your platform scale serviced, contact SWIA today.
