Experimental work in laboratories usually requires exceptionally accurate weight measurements, and Arlyn Scales offers the required accuracy more reliably and at greater capacities with its SAW (Surface Acoustic Wave) technology, which cannot be found anywhere else. The Ultra Precision Scales line runs from the SAW-X with a capacity/resolution of 10 pounds/0.0001 pound to the SAW-KL with a capacity/resolution of 500 pounds/05 pound. Between the ends of this product line are models that will fit the requirements of any current or planned laboratory.
SAW Technology Raises the Bar
SAW technology accomplishes these astounding performance levels by utilizing surface acoustic waves rather than electrical resistance (Strain Gauge) or changes in electromagnetic fields (Force Restoration, also known as Force Motor). Surface acoustic waves are impervious to outside influences that can significantly throw off electrical resistance and tolerate higher temperatures than electromagnetic fields.
Due to an extraordinarily stiff load cell block, SAW technology handles maximum loads that other technologies cannot approach. This combination of high accuracy and high capacity opens the doors to more extensive experimentation in a broad range of categories. New compounds can be tested to a greater extent for determining potential manufacturing limits, which would be important while working with alloys, polymers, finishes, medications, and many other products that depend upon tightly controlled proportions.
Better Performance at Reasonable Prices
You may be thinking that SAW technology must be very expensive, perhaps too expensive for the typical laboratory, but this is definitely not the case. Prices for the Ultra Precision Scales line are no more expensive than for high-quality Strain Gauges, which Arlyn Scales also carries. You can have your gram precision scales and keep within budget while benefiting from their high capacities. SAW technology also handles higher environmental temperatures than Force Restoration, which may be an important consideration.
Inside SAW Technology
SAW technology is not too complicated in its overview. Two SAW transducers, similar to the IC chips used in computers but very specialized, work in tandem to measure displacement of the load cell block as a weight is applied. One transducer transmits the surface acoustic wave and the other receives it. Then the receiver amplifies the signal and sends it back to the transmitter, in a feedback loop. Change in the frequency of the surface acoustic wave oscillation is the key to accurately measuring the weight, and the results are digitized for readout and recording.
The SAW transducers are built with a different substrate than the typical IC chip. Rather than silicon, lithium niobate is employed for its unique characteristics, primarily its piezoelectric effect that converts mechanical energy to electrical (and vice versa), that are ideal for SAW.
Creation of the SAW transducers uses photolithography, which is similar to how IC chips are manufactured, but no transistors or logic gates play a role. The whole point is to accurately measure load cell block displacement rather than to perform calculations. This means that SAW is the origination of weight data, while computers perform meaningful calculations on the raw data. Still, Arlyn scales do have control-level intelligence that makes working with them very easy.
Ultra Precision Scales Intelligence and Connectivity
The Ultra Precision Scales line features LCD displays that are large enough for comfortable viewing. Multiple weight units are supported, such as kilogram, gram, pound, ounce, and so forth. When used for counting units, an automated function is provided, along with zero-tracking and stability control. These scales also have automatic calibration, which eliminates setup and dealer service.
Most modern laboratories incorporate networked computers and storage devices. The Ultra Precision scales can be configured with Ethernet ports, thereby allowing them to connect to the laboratory network. If your laboratory does not need network connections, then you can opt for USB ports that allow direct connections to PCs and storage devices.
Tough, Not Fragile
Unlike other kinds of gram precision scales for laboratories, the Arlyn Scales SAW line is not at all fragile. The scales are made with die-cast aluminum frames, stainless steel weighing pans, and click-style switches. You can expect your investment to give many years of trouble-free service. Besides having greater capacities, SAW technology also performs well at higher temperatures than the electromagnetic Force Restoration technology and can withstand greater overloads and shocks.
The following is a rundown of Arlyn Scales SAW models currently available:
- SAW-X with capacity/resolution of 10 lb. x 0.0001 lb., 4,600 g x .05 g, 9 x 12 platform
- SAW-T with capacity/resolution of 25 lb. x .0002 lb., 12 kg x 0.1 g, 12 x 16 platform
- SAW-L with capacity/resolution of 50 lb. x .0005 lb., 22 kg x 0.2 g, 12 x 16 platform
- SAW-C with capacity/resolution of 100 lb. x .001 lb., 45 kg x .05 g, 12 x 16 platform
- SAW-H with capacity/resolution of 200 lb. x .002 lb., 90 kg x 1 g, 12 x 16 platform
- SAW-HL with capacity/resolution of 200 lb. x .002 lb., 20 x 23 platform
- SAW- JL with capacity/resolution of 300 lb. x .002 lb., 20 x 23 platform
- SAW- KL with capacity/resolution of 500 lb. x .005 lb., 20 x 23 platform
Notice that the SAW-H, SAW-HL, and SAW-JL products differ only in platform size and/or capacity. The resolution remains the same. If your laboratory needs to handle an even larger capacity but at a somewhat lower resolution, the SAW-KL can take 500 pounds with a .005 pound resolution. Remember that you can select among 15 different weight units to fit your needs.
SAW technology, only available from Arlyn Scales, is a revolutionary breakthrough for gram precision scales. The Ultra Precision Scales line covers the current laboratory requirements and expands the potentials for future advancements in experimentation, not only in capacity but also for harsher environments. The products offer tremendous cost/performance ratios, reliability, and longevity. Your next step should be obvious: Contact Arlyn Scales for more information using the form on our Contact Us page or by calling (800) 645-4301.
You can then ask questions and discuss your needs with friendly customer relations personnel, technical personnel, and sales staff. Remember that only Arlyn Scales offers SAW technology and that higher capacities with fine resolutions can set your laboratory on a path toward greater significance for research and development.
