Platform Scales – find manufacturers and suppliers

Platform scales - the universal workhorses among scales

Platform scales are sold in very different designs, with different weighing ranges, by numerous manufacturers in Germany and abroad. The range extends from high-resolution industrial scales to robust platform scales. Depending on the design, mobile use is also possible with an additional battery. Platform scales, in which the weighing technology and the display module communicate wirelessly with each other, are becoming increasingly popular. However, not every manufacturer offers this type of platform scale yet.

Where are platform scales used?

The platform scale has a number of other names, depending on the design and weighing range: Floor scale, bench scale, laboratory scale, checkweigher, recipe scale or industrial scale are just a few examples. As a floor scale in the medium weighing range, it can be found in veterinary practices, for example. With a weighing capacity of up to 300 kg, possibly supplemented by a loading ramp, the platform scale provides good service as a floor scale in the storage area. In the version as a table scale, it often serves as a checkweigher for parcel shipping. In laboratories, too, the platform scale - often equipped with a very wide range of functions - is indispensable as a laboratory scale.

What are the advantages of a platform scale?

The platform scale is so widely used, and not just in industry, because it has a number of advantages.

• It is robust and easy to use.
• The stainless steel weighing plate is impact resistant, easy to clean and can withstand harsher industrial use.
• Weighing plates are offered in numerous sizes. You can almost always find something suitable.
• The platform scale can be calibrated. This is important when the price of a product is calculated from the weighing.
• Platform scales are offered with weighing ranges from 3 to 300 kg. They are therefore suitable for a wide range of applications.
• They have a high overload protection.
• Platform scales are available in all price ranges, depending on the design and range of functions.
• The smaller models are portable, lightweight and can be used anywhere thanks to internal or external rechargeable batteries.
• The ability to place the indicator on a tripod, in a wall mount or next to the scale means that the user's view of the weighing result is not restricted.
• Platform scales can be equipped with RS interfaces for communication with other devices.
• If the platform scale is equipped with the "vibration-free weighing" function, it also provides reliable values when weighing animals, for example, or when weighing in unstable locations. For this purpose, the platform scale calculates the average value from various weights that are weighed in quick succession.

Useful accessories

For the smaller models intended for mobile use, it is advisable to purchase a carrying case.

Many platform scale models offer the option of mounting the display unit in a wall bracket. This allows the user to always have a clear view of the display, regardless of the size and position of the item being weighed.

A tripod used to raise the display unit offers similar advantages to a wall mount. The user gets a better view of the display unit, which cannot be obscured as quickly by the weighing product.

For floor scales in particular, an anti-slip mat placed under the scale can do a good job.

Appropriately large models can be supplemented with a drive-on ramp. This is ideal for axle load measurement, for example.

Many modern platform scales today are equipped with RS interfaces. These interfaces allow them to communicate with suitable printers, for example.

A protective cover for the evaluation unit protects it from dust and splash water. This not only increases the service life of this unit, but also makes reading easier.

A signal lamp can be used to indicate correct weighing so that it can be determined even from a distance.

External and internal rechargeable batteries, as well as the appropriate chargers, are important accessories as soon as the platform scale is to be used in mobile applications. However, not every scale is suitable for this purpose.

RS-232/Ethernet adapter for integrating the scale into the operating network, if the scale is equipped with a corresponding interface.