Crane scales: what it is, types, application

Crane scales are devices for weighing goods directly in the process of their movement. In this case, there is a great saving of time in determining the weight during unloading and loading. Externally, the scales are similar to household bezmen, however, they are capable of weighing goods weighing up to 20-50 tons. Crane scales are used at such facilities:

• at railroad stations;
• in terminals of sea and river ports;
• at construction sites and warehouses of building materials;
• in metallurgical shops;
• chemical plants;
• customs terminals;
• in logistics centers.

Types of crane scales

By execution, crane scales are divided into mechanical and electronic. Consider their features.

Mechanical crane scales

They are easy to use, do not require recharging. They are used at low heights. Otherwise, it will be difficult to see the numbers and divisions on the scale, and it is impossible to display the readings on the remote control.

Electronic crane scales

Such models are more expensive than mechanical scales, but they surpass them in accuracy. The result of measurements practically does not depend on external factors. Electronic scales are operable on the street and in indoor premises. Before weighing the load is attached to the strain gauge sensor, when the load is lifted, the weight measuring device is triggered, then the screen displays the readings. For the convenience of working with scales, some models are equipped with an infrared remote control. From it you can control the weighing process. There are variants of remotes with weight readings on the display.

Siluminous, plastic and steel bodies of crane scales are made. When choosing scales should take into account such factors:

• When working indoors, scales often suffer from impacts against walls and columns. Therefore, it will be better to stop on shockproof versions.
• When loading metal products into freight cars, there may be impacts on the body of the scales. Only steel scales can withstand them.
• Electronic crane scales operate from batteries, switching to stationary power supply is not provided. Charging the battery takes at least 10 hours.
• For difficult working conditions, devices with dust and moisture protection are required.

What are the differences between crane scales

All manufacturers of crane scales produce models of different price categories. They are conditionally divided into budget, average cost, expensive. There are differences in functionality, but there is no clear gradation between the last two categories. Good-quality crane can belong to any price category.

The most affordable scales for the price are devices with a lifting capacity of up to 1 ton. Rotating hook and ring are not always important.

Inexpensive crane scales

They are produced without dust and moisture protection and without a display on the control panel. The hook and the ring for suspension are fixed. The remote control operates no more than at a distance of 10-15 meters from the device.

Medium-priced crane scales

In them, the radio channel of the remote control is designed for 25 meters. The functionality is almost the same as in inexpensive models. There are variants with rotating hook and ring.

Expensive crane scales

The weight can be fixed both from the display and from the remote control. The level of dust and moisture protection is high. A visor is provided over the display, with it the figures do not glare in bright sunlight. The remote control operates at 50 meters.

Type of load cell in crane scales

The load cell forms an electrical impulse and is considered the most important element in the weight measuring device. Strain gauges are divided into S-shaped and rod gauges. According to the type of output signal, analog and digital sensors are distinguished.

Types of batteries

Batteries for crane scales come in two variants:

• Stationary. Included in the body of the scales. They work uninterruptedly for 18-30 hours. Recharging takes about 10 hours. The housing is always sealed. Difficult to replace.
• Replaceable. Working time - 8-12 hours. Easy to replace. Heavy weight.

Scales with long periods of operation from 50 to 300 hours are equipped with several rechargeable batteries. It is important to remember that if the weighing equipment is idle, i.e. used less than once every 3 months, the batteries still need recharging.