How to choose an industrial scale: capacity, division, IP rating and interfaces

Choose an industrial scale in this order: real maximum load, required division, working environment, pan size and connections. Price comes afterwards: an undersized instrument costs more over time.

1. Capacity

Consider the heaviest item, the container and a margin for knocks and off-centre loads. A prudent rule is to choose a capacity about one third higher than the usual load.

2. Division

The division should be at least ten times finer than the tolerance you need to meet. The higher the capacity, the coarser the division: heavy loads with fine readings need high-resolution instruments such as Radwag PM C32 «Urano».

3. Environment

4. Pan and format

The load must sit entirely on the pan. For parcels and pallets move to a weighing platform with a separate indicator.

5. Connections

RS-232 and USB are enough for PCs and printers. If you want the data on your network, look for Ethernet or Wi-Fi: Radwag WLC X7 «Marte» offers both.

Mistakes to avoid

• Working constantly close to maximum capacity.
• Confusing the displayed division with real accuracy.
• Forgetting CE-M verification if the weight sets a price for third parties.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need calibration?

If you work under a quality system, yes: see Calibration and certification.

Bench scale or platform?

Below 30 kg a bench scale is usually enough, such as CI 310 «Ganimede»; above that a platform is better.

See all industrial scales.

Not sure which one to choose? Open «Find the right product» at the top of the page or request a quote: a technician will reply.