Bench Scale Guide: What They Are & How to Choose

Bench scales are one of the most in-demand scale types we see, and for good reason. They’re versatile pieces of equipment that have applications in numerous industries.

While they have many uses, all bench scales aren’t all the same. Choosing the right bench scale can make your work more efficient and accurate.

So, how do you choose the best scale? By focusing on purpose, capacity, and accuracy. Here’s how it works.

What Is a Bench Scale?

As the name describes, a bench scale is a small scale that can sit atop a bench or a workspace. Because of their size and simplicity, they have endless applications. Your bench scale choice will depend on how you need to use it. For example, if you need a bench scale for simple weighing, you can choose from various options and will probably want to choose an economical, user-friendly machine. If you’re filling a box to a certain weight, then you might want a basic weighing scale such as an Ohaus Defender 3000 series.

Here are some common uses for bench scales:

• Basic weighing
• Checkweighing
• Portion control
• Parcel/ Post Shipping
• Percent weighing

We have bench scales available on our website for most applications.

Factors in Choosing the Right Bench Scale

Many bench scales can be used for multiple purposes, so you can narrow it down by adding in other factors you need for your bench scale.

Size and Capacity

Your bench scale’s weight capacity and platform size must accommodate whatever you’re weighing. So, if you know your items are usually around 20 pounds, look for a bench scale that has a minimum capacity higher than 20 pounds – we recommend choosing scales with weight limits double what you need to avoid the risk of damaging the scale.

Platform size is also an important factor. The platform must accommodate the surface of the large item. The calculated weight may be inaccurate if the item is larger than the platform. Again, you don’t want to worry about minimums and wonder if an object will exceed your platform size. It’s best to go over what you think you need rather than being unable to get an accurate weight because the platform is too small.

Materials & Portability

Most bench scales are made of metal or plastic.

Our manufacturers use carbon or stainless steel for their metal bench scales. Both types are durable and tough, but carbon steel’s composition makes it so that it can corrode or rust over time when regularly exposed to moisture. Carbon steel scales are a good fit for package weighing and manufacturing needs. Carbon steel is also slightly lighter and less expensive than stainless steel, making these bench scales an economical and portable option.

On the other hand, stainless steel is an ideal fit for clients in pharmaceuticals, food processing, and anyone who deals with harsh and corrosive chemicals. The stainless steel holds up over time and is incredibly durable in these environments. For example, the Pennsylvania 6500 series scale is a stainless steel, washdown check-weighing scale that would work well for harsh environments.

Bench scales made with ABS plastic are notable for their portability and functionality. These economic scales aren’t as durable as the steel scales discussed above but are a good choice if you need a portable, light option.

Bench scales of all materials can have digital displays, so you get an efficient, accurate reading.

Communications

Many bench scales have digital communications power, making tracking your data easy. You can connect your bench scale to a portable drive, computer, or tablet.

Depending on how often you upload your data and your storage options, you can opt for bench scales with RS232, USB, or Ethernet ports so your scale can communicate directly with your devices. Decreasing time on manual input means faster and more accurate data.

Safety

Safety is a top concern for your bench scale purchase. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Safety Ratings: Our products come with several different ratings – sometimes all of the above.

• NTEP: Certifies that a bench scale meets requirements for legal-for-trade applications, aka selling packaged goods to consumers
• NSF: Certifies that a scale is hygienic for food-grade applications. Restaurants and food packaging companies often look for this certification.
• FM, IECEx, and UL Certification: These approvals certify whether or not the bench scale is safe in hazardous environments.

2. IP Rating: The Ingress Protection Rating is the device’s ability to protect against dust, debris, and liquids. Bench scales have these to help you decide if they can be useful and safe in different environments.
3. Washdown: Washdown bench scales such as the Weightronix ZQ375 can handle exposure to water and are ideal for environments where you have to clean your scale frequently.

One final factor is whether or not the distributor offers service on the products. Johnson Scale’s service center is a top reason customers choose us for bench scales, and we provide top-tier customer service at every step of the process. No matter what kind of bench scale you need, we can help.