Choose from many mechanical scales in the Certified Material Testing Products catalog. Scales from Adam Equipment and Ohaus. Tough enough for the job, accurate every time. Looking for a crane scale for a shipping warehouse or a triple beam balance for your classroom? You’ll find them here.
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Overview
Mechanical scales and balances with a stainless steel pan have been around for centuries. Many high-quality mechanical balances incorporate aluminum pressure castings, which contribute to their unparalleled precision and reliability. Simple, tough and reliable they remain a popular choice for many industries and educational institutions. In this article we will explore the world of scales and balances, their types, features and benefits. We will also give you guidance on how to choose the right scale weights for your needs.
Types of Scales: Triple Beam Balance
Mechanical scales and weights come in many forms, each for a specific weighing application. Here are some of the most common:
Triple Beam Balances: Three beams to measure weight. High readability and precise. Educational and laboratory use. Some models, like the Triple Beam Balance - 700 Series, come with five weighing pans of different sizes and designs, enhancing their capability to handle various weighing applications.
Two-Pan Balances: Comparative weighing. Two pans. Scientific research and quality control of weights. These balances often feature a self-aligning beam, which ensures precise and consistent measurements without the need for frequent adjustments.
Platform Scales: Flat platform. Weigh larger objects. Industrial and commercial use.
Spring Scales: Spring mechanism to measure weight. Educational and field use.
Mechanical Balances
Mechanical balances are a cornerstone in the world of weighing instruments, utilizing a mechanical system to measure weight with exceptional precision. These balances are often considered the gold standard against which all other balances are measured. One of the most well-known types is the triple beam balance, which employs three beams to provide extremely precise mechanical balance measurements. This type of balance is particularly suitable for educational settings, where its simplicity and ease of use make it ideal for younger students.
The high readability and precise measurements of mechanical balances make them indispensable in various applications. For instance, the two-pan balance is specifically designed for comparative weighing, allowing users to measure the weight of an object by comparing it to a known weight. This feature is particularly valuable in teaching environments, where students can learn the fundamental concept of comparative weighing through hands-on experience. Mechanical balances, with their robust design and reliable performance of weights, continue to be a preferred choice for accurate weighing in both educational and professional settings.
Precision Mechanical Scales
Precision scales are a marvel of engineering, operating without the need for electricity or batteries. These scales rely on a system of springs, levers, or gears to deliver accurate measurements, making them a reliable choice for various weighing needs. Known for their simplicity, durability, and reliability, precision scales are suitable for weighing a wide range of weights, from small goods to larger objects.
These scales are widely used across different industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and retail, where accurate measurements are crucial. The design and functionality of precision scales ensure that they provide consistent and reliable results, making them a cost-effective alternative to digital scales. Their robust construction and ease of use make them a valuable tool for anyone in need of precise and dependable weighing solutions.
Comparative Weighing
Comparative weighing is a fundamental technique used to determine the weight of an object by comparing it to a known weight. Mechanical balances are specifically designed for this purpose, making them an ideal choice for educational settings. The two-pan balance, a type of mechanical balance, is particularly well-suited for comparative weighing, allowing students to easily grasp this essential concept in science and mathematics.
Mechanical balances are designed to provide accurate and reliable results, making them perfect for comparative weighing applications. Some mechanical balances come equipped with built-in sliding masses, which simplify and expedite the comparative weighing process. This feature is especially beneficial in educational environments, where students can quickly and efficiently learn the principles of comparative weighing. By using mechanical balances, students can develop a valuable skill that will serve them well in their scientific and mathematical endeavors.
Educational Scales
Educational scales are specifically designed to introduce young scientists to the fascinating world of weighing. These scales feature large, washable pans that provide ample space for samples to be weighed accurately. Additionally, educational scales often come with an 18-piece color-coded stackable plastic mass set, allowing for hands-on learning and experimentation.
One of the standout features of educational scales is the front and rear pointers, which enable students to view results from both sides of the balance. This design fosters a collaborative learning environment and nurtures the scientific curiosity of budding scientists. Each educational scale typically includes an activity guide containing 16 engaging exercises, making it easy for educators to teach students the concept of comparative weighing. With their user-friendly design and educational focus, these scales are perfect for inspiring the next generation of scientists.
Features and Benefits: Accurate Measurements
Mechanical scales and balances have many features and benefits that make them great for accurate weighing. Here are some:
Superior Magnetic Damping: Minimizes oscillation for faster and more stable weighing.
Notched and Tiered Beams: Easy to read measurements. Educational use.
Accurate Measurements: Mechanical scales and balances are known for their accuracy and reliability.
Zero Adjust Compensator: Ensures the balance reads zero before taking any measurements, crucial for accurate results.
Comparative Weighing: Mechanical balances teach comparative weighing to students.
Durable Construction: Minimal moving parts and long life.
Stainless Steel Pan: Provides unparalleled precision and reliability during weighing.
Weighing Pans: Essential for comparative weighing and precise measurements in educational and laboratory settings.
Industrial and Laboratory Applications
Mechanical balances are a staple in industrial and laboratory settings, renowned for their high accuracy and reliability. These balances are used in a variety of applications, including quality control, research, and development, where precise measurements are essential. The triple beam balance is a popular choice in these environments due to its high readability and precise measurements.
Designed to withstand heavy use, mechanical balances offer long-lasting performance and are easy to calibrate and maintain. This makes them a cost-effective option for industrial and laboratory settings, where accurate and reliable weight measurements are crucial. Whether used for quality control in manufacturing or for research in a laboratory, mechanical balances are a valuable tool that ensures consistent and dependable results.
How to Choose: Magnetic Damping Minimizes Oscillation
Choosing the right mechanical scale or balance can be overwhelming with so many options. Here are the factors to consider:
Weighing Capacity: What’s the maximum weight you need to measure? Choose a mechanical scale with that capacity.
Accuracy: Look for high accuracy and reliability.
Ease of Use: Choose a mechanical scale with a simple design and easy to read measurements.
Durability: What’s the construction and materials of the mechanical scale? Can it withstand daily use.
Budget: Mechanical scales and balances vary in price. Set a budget and choose a mechanical scale that fits within that.
Easy Grip Carrying Handle: Enhances portability and ease of use, making it ideal for educational and laboratory settings.
Summary: Weighing Pans
Mechanical scales and balances are a great choice for accurate weighing because of their simplicity, durability and reliability. Now you know the types of scales, their features and benefits and how to choose the right one. Whether you’re a scientist, educator or industry professional, mechanical scales and balances are for you.
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