BENCH SCALE ISSUES
Industrial legal for trade bench scales are ideal for small spaces as they take up a minimal amount of room while providing maximum accuracy and durability in a variety of industrial environments. These multi-purpose scales are built to withstand daily use in both wet and dry areas and are typically affordable. There are some models that are even approved for use in hazardous areas like chemical plants, steel mills, etc. Regardless of how small the bench scale is, however, it’s critical to keep it maintained and cleaned so it continues to perform in a reliable manner. This article will cover the common issues that occur during the ownership of a bench scale.
SCALE IS NOT RECEIVING POWER
Believe it or not, one of the common issues with a bench scale is lack or loss of power. A scale not powering on can be a variety of issues from mechanical to electronic. Begin by checking the power source for any issues and that it fits into the outlet. If the scale operates with batteries, double-check that they are charged and don't need to be replaced. These might seem like basic items to check, but you'd be surprised how much time and hassle this could save you in the long run.
Check the power supply to make sure it is correctly plugged into the scale and power outlet.
Check that the power switch to the scale is flipped on
Verify the voltage going to the scale matches the power supply labels on the scale
DISPLAY IS NOT WORKING
An issue that somewhat gets overlooked is a blank display or the display is not reading or working correctly. One way you will notice this is when the display may be pixelated or is displaying non sequential figures. These can be from the cause of a faulty display. There are a few reasons why this could occur. One reason could simply be that the power source is not plugged in or the scale is not turned on. Other contributors to this issue is that a fuse in the scale could be burned out or the screen display is broken and needs to be replaced.
Check power is going to the scale and the switch is on
Verify the voltage going to the scale matches the power supply labels on the scale
Check the display screen that there is no damage and that it is proper connected from the inside
If you have a remote display, be sure to check the cables are connected properly.
Check the scale indicator to see if it is properly connected
If you have a scoreboard, then check to ensure it is properly connected
INACCURATE WEIGHT READINGS
Inaccurate readings can plague a scale more than one may realize.These inaccurate readings are primarily the result of a scale being out of calibration, debris buildup under the weighing platter or a broken component. An inaccurate reading can cause significant issues in almost any business. A bind prevents the scale from receiving the correct amount of load. A bind can occur when a buildup of debris or foreign objects accumulate under or around the scale. It is good to set up a daily and weekly cleaning schedule for the scale to make sure it is void of any dust, debris or moisture.
Check pan is installed correctly and clear any obstructions
Calibrate to make sure that the scale is measuring correctly
Make sure that the scale is set to the correct measuring units
Check the junction box to ensure everything is wired properly
Is there a scale calibration schedule? If so, is it being followed
Check the weight platter to see if there is debris under. Most are stainless steel for easy cleaning
Check your load cell, whether it is analog or an electronic load cell depends on the owner
SCALE NOT ZEROING OUT
There can come a time where your scale is not zeroing out between measurements. One of the reasons for this is the amount of debris and grime buildup. Dirt, dust and other residue can build up in the seams of your scale over time if you’re not cleaning it regularly. Even the slightest bit of dust underneath the actual scale can affect your measurements, and any buildup directly on the pan certainly affects it. Make a point to do daily and weekly checks on your bench scale. Checking the power source, under the platter and around load cells to ensure that the scale is free of moisture, debris and built up dust. Also make a point to run a few tests to make sure that the scale is zeroing out between each measurement.
Check the weighing platter and ensure that there is no build up underneath
Do a weight test between measurements to ensure the scale is zeroing out
Clean scale around and under the platter and load cells
UNSTABLE SURFACE
When weighing anything, it is important to make sure that the scale is on a level and stable surface. This will keep the scale from shifting, thus providing an inaccurate measurement. The unstable surface causes the measured weight to shift, thus giving an inaccurate reading. Since bench scales are designed to take up minimal space as well as sit on a flat surface, be sure to make sure that the adjustable feet on the scale are all the same height and that the bench itself is also level and stable.
Check the platform that the scale is on that it is stable
Ensure that the scale’s adjustable feet is on the scale is level
Check the weighing platter to be sure that it is level and even on the load cells.
HONORABLE MENTION
The aforementioned troubleshooting tips for your bench scale system are a good standard to follow when it comes to figuring out any issues that your scale will have. One less common issue is receiving different weight measurements on different areas on the platform. For example, if you weigh an object on one side of the scale and the reading is the correct size. Then if you weigh the same object on a different side of the scale and the measurement comes up inaccurate. This can happen by the platter not being correctly on the platform. One of the feet on the scale could need adjusting to be level because they are causing the scale to not be level. A good practice to prevent this is to check the platter, platform and around the load cell to ensure that there is not anything that is obstructing the scale from getting an accurate measurement. Another thing of note is that knowing your weighing application, essentially what the scale will mainly weigh and how often.
CONCLUSION
A bench scale just like any other scale needs to be properly taken care of. Scale manufacturers will usually include a suggested maintenance schedule to follow to prevent common problems. Neglecting maintenance and service will cost you time and money in the long run. Looking after your product can prolong its lifespan, provide more consistently accurate results and potentially reduce your parts and labor costs. Remember to Avoid prolonged exposure to harsh environments, Calibrate your balance at regular intervals and keep your scale clean and tidy. These issues may be common, but they will become less common if you follow the aforementioned tips.
At American Scale Be sure to check out our Learning Hub to find more in depth articles on all things scale related. From scale accessories to truck scale foundations, or warranties we offer articles on everything scale related. To learn more about bench scales, be sure to check out our article Bench Scale Basics.