Why buy branded industrial scales?

When you're in the market for a new industrial scale, you probably already realised that there is are bewildering number of choices, so how do you go about choosing one.

As with most things, buying cheap is often be a false economy. Why?

Here are some clues.
• Cheap components and load cells
• Inferior build quality
• Lack of CE Marking (a requirement by law!!)
• Availability of spares and serviceability.

Who are we and why should you read more?

We've been in the weighing trade long enough to know what makes a good scale. The influx of low cost scales from the far east has impacted heavily on prices especially on line.

Scalesmart have been selling industrial scales on line for 10 years,and we ensure that we do not jeopardise our reputation by selling cheap products that don't last. Buying an industrial scale that last a long time in areas where the operators may have a rugged approach needs to be researched carefully.

Cheap Components and Load Cells

Load cells are made up of machined metals, such as stainless steel of aluminium, within the assembly of the load cell a small strain gauge is placed. The strain gauge is used to measure minute voltage changes, this is basically how a scale works. Cheap strain gauges do not measure as well and thus the weighing performance is impaired.

Build quality

Looking at images on the web of scales doesnt really give you a true reflection of an industrial scales build quality. You're pretty much taking a chance on any scale you buy. So what can you do to minimise the chance of buying a dud? One good way is to pick from a range of well known brandnames which are respected within the weighing trade. Three of the most well known are Ohaus, Kern and Son and UWE, who manufacture some of the best low cost industrial scales on the market.

Scalesmart are dealers for all of these companies.

CE Marking

Whilst CE marking is required by law, sadly there are some scales on the market that lack the CE mark. The need for this mark is important as it qualifies the item as passing electrical safety tests set by the EU. Using a non CE marked scale may invalidate any employee liability insurance. Before purchasing an industrial scale always reseach the model you are interested in, ask to see Certificates of Conformity, they're important. Suffice to say Scalesmart only sell CE marked scales.

Availability of Spares

Sticking with brand name weighing scales ensures that you will always be able to repair, calibrate and protect your investment. Buying a model that has no pedigree could end up costing you in the long run when you can't find a scale repair company to support the product you have purchased.

Recommended Bench Scales

Budget Model - Ohaus Defender 3000

Simple to use industrial bench scale, tough ABS housing for heavy use from £210.00 save £40.00

Middle Range - UWE Paco

Heavy duty platform with a range of sizes up to 800mm x 600mm and 600Kg from £295.00 save £45.00

Top End - Ohaus Defender 5000

Rugged bench scale with a wide range of options, including battery and relays. from £325 save £60.00

Hopefully this FAQ will help you make a decision on what type of industrial weighing scale to buy, there are many available on the market at the moment. It is best to research a little before going for the cheapest industrial scale, it may cast more in the long term.

Scalesmart & MWS Ltd strive to be the number one supplier of premium weighing equipment that ensure purchases today and in the future.

To all of you, from all of us at Scalesmart & MWS Ltd

Andrew Clarke
Sales Director