Scales are used to determine how much a specific item weighs. A measurement cannot be ascertained unless there is some standard to compare with the object being weighed. Every scale must be aligned with the standard of measurement, which is usually a certified weight.
Good scale manufacturers attempt to ship scales that are properly calibrated. However, there are many factors that can cause a scale to lose its calibration setting and offer faulty measurements. Sometimes, simply jarring the scale will cause it to look its alignment with the standard of measurement.
In these cases the scale must be recalibrated so that it measures correctly. This process of lining the scale back up with a standard of measurement is called calibration.
How Calibration Works
Calibration can work in different ways. For a scale that does not require extreme precision, it might be fairly easy to calibrate the scale by hand.
One example of calibrating a scale is when the dial is turned on a bathroom scale to line it back up. The proper procedure involves moving off the scale then moving the needle to zero while nothing is on the scale.
Technically, the scale should be measuring zero when nothing is sitting on it. It could be argued that it would be easy to not line the needle up exactly on the zero. However, high levels of precision are generally not needed for a bathroom scale.With other types of scales, calibration might be more difficult.
When Is Calibration Necessary?
There can be many factors that make calibration necessary. When a scale is purchased, it will need to be calibrated before it is used. Yes, the manufacturer probably tried to calibrate it as accurately as possible. However, the scale may have traveled a good distance in motor vehicles to arrive where you are. After the jostling around, it is likely that the scale will need to be calibrated.
Most instruments will also include a recommendation that they will need to be calibrated after a certain amount of time has passed or after they have been used a certain number of times. This will help to ensure that the weight of the objects and the jostling of workers has not compromised the calibration of the instrument.
Differences in weather may also cause the scale to need calibration. The bottom line is that if any measurement seems suspicious, it is probably a good time to test calibration.
What Are The Disadvantages In Calibrating A Scale?
Some scales may be easier than others to calibrate. Some scales may actually require a good amount of time to calibrate. While employees are calibrating a scale, they are unable to do anything else. While the scale is being calibrated, no one else can come through and use the scale, either.
Some scales may also be harder to calibrate and may required more skilled technicians to calibrate them.
Calibrating scales may use valuable time of employees and also keep other employees from using the scales while they are being calibrated.
Can Just Anyone Calibrate A Scale?
With some scales, it is possible that anyone might be able to complete the calibration process. Other types of scales may involve more complicated calibration processes.
It is possible that only one employee might be trained to perform the needed calibrations. This means that if the scale has become inaccurate and needs to be calibrated, work comes to a standstill until the proper employee can arrive to calibrate it.
It might even be possible that some scales would require the use of outside sources for calibration. This could result in unnecessary loss of time and added expense for the business.
What Is Self Calibration?
Self calibration is a process in which a piece of equipment is able to calibrate itself. This reduces the amount of time, energy and knowledge that must be expended by employees to calibrate the scale.
Self calibration eliminates the need to wait for a qualified person to arrive and calibrate the scale.
Self calibration also helps keep work running smoothly. Some types of self calibrating scales are able to continuously calibrate themselves as they are being used. This ensures that there is no unnecessary loss of work while waiting for the scale to be calibrated.
What To Consider When Selecting A Self Calibrating Scale
Just as with any other type of scale purchase, there are things that should be carefully considered before making a purchase.
- Consider exactly which type of scale you need.
- The type of job the scale will do determines which scale you will need. Scales that will need to measure larger objects, of course, will need to be larger scales. However, don’t forget that even smaller objects will require larger scales if those objects are heavier.
- Consider the quality of the scales. Are the scales made of high quality materials? Will the scale hold up for as long as you will need it? If not, you might consider buying something different.
- Consider the use of the scale. Some reasons for using the scale will require the scale to have many more functions than other uses. Will you need to be able to perform calculations from the scale?
- Consider the reputation of the company. The reputation of the company is important. Ask around to see who may have used the company before. Those people will be able to relate stories of their experiences, whether good or bad. If only one person relates a bad story, that could simply be a problem with that one person. However, a chain of reactions from several people might indicate an actual issue that you should consider.
We Offer Reliable and Affordable Self Calibrating Scales
When looking for a self calibrating scale, look no farther than Arlyn Scales. Their scales are reliable. When you need to use the scale, you can feel confident that it will be ready and accurate.
We offer scales at affordable prices. Find the perfect scale for your job without breaking your bank account to do so.
Our customer service is beyond compare. Let us help you find the perfect scale for your exact weighing need. Contact us for assistance in choosing a self calibrating scale.
If you are in the market for self calibrating scales, contact us now to find out how we can help you get the scale you need.
