Choosing the right counting scale is important to ensure accuracy, quality and to reduce loss of profits. There are several variables to consider before making a purchase. We've narrowed it down to the four most important things to consider when buying a new counting scale. Although this isn't an exhaustive list, these 4 steps will get you well on your way to buying the right counting scale.

Sample Size

Determining your sample sizes is the absolute most important piece of information to consider when buying a counting scale. Since count is determined by the individual weight of each piece versus the total weight of the batch, the scale has to be capable of accurately measuring the Average Piece Weight, or APW. Once you've identified your average piece weight, search for a counting scale that matches it. 

Many manufacturers will identify a 'Minimum Average Piece Weight' in their spec sheets. For example, if you're counting lock nuts that weigh 0.01 pounds each, you'll need a counting scale that supports an APW of 0.01 pounds or better. In the spirit of higher accuracy, I'd recommend going with a scale capable of 0.001 pound minimum APW. Having that extra decimal adds a little more piece of mind when profits are on the line.

Capacity

You don't have much of a choice with capacity after determining your sample size because often times a scale's readability dictates the maximum capacity it can support. However, it is still an important specification to consider because you don't want to end up over capacity or under performance.

Be sure to choose a scale that can handle the weighing capacity your process dictates. If you're weighing 35 pounds of parts, you'll need a scale that can handle that. Overloading a scale can damage internal components like the load cell which can be a costly mistake. Using a scale well below the rated capacity is unnecessary and it's likely you'll have over paid for the scale. 

Once you've determined your sample size, find a scale that is suitable for your per batch capacity without going too high or too low. You'll do yourself an injustice either way due to loss of profits or damage costs.

Pan Size

Now that you've determined your sample weight and capacity, a scale without adequate pan space is as good as a table without legs. Bench style counting scales typically offer a wide range of pan sizes while compact scales usually come one-size-fits-all.

For visual reference, the scale pictured above perfectly accommodates the size of the samples and sample container being used. There is plenty of space on the pan to support the entire dimension of the weighing container. Although it won't change the measurement much if your sample container overhangs the pan, it is a best practice to prevent this as much as possible.

Data Communication

Data communication is often times missed when making purchasing decisions. However, it is very important if your operation requires record keeping and documentation. 

Many scales are capable of connecting to a PC or peripheral devices such as printers to record weighing results and special IDs. When quality guidelines or processes dictate record keeping, it may be necessary to choose a counting scale that can export weighing results, sample IDs and other relevant data. You'll want to know if this is required before making your purchase so you can weed out any scales that lack communication capability. 

If you do in fact require communication, make sure you choose a model that supports the type of interface required. For example, if you need to transmit data via RS-232, you'll need to look at models that support RS-232 serial communication.

Conclusion

These four simple steps will help you make a more informed purchasing decision when buying your next counting scales. We want you to avoid overspending on unnecessary equipment while also ensuring you're getting whats needed to do the job right.

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