What are Crane Scales?

crane scale

Crane Scales are heavy-duty industrial scales that can be used for weighing large or awkwardly shaped goods where you may not have the floor space to put a large platform scale or unable to balance the shape of the goods. You may also hear them be called suspended scales or overhead scales.

In this article we'll explain how they are used & what to think about when purchasing:


How are Crane Scales used?

 

  1. The object being weighed needs to have a secure attachment for it to be hooked on to the crane scale and lifted.
  2. Before lifting make sure it’s level and the crane scale is zeroed.
  3. Using the crane scale hook (pictured below) securely connect to the item being weighed.
  4. Using the controls on the crane scale/remote lift the item slowly with care.
  5. Make a note of the weight and slowly lower the goods.

 

crane scale hookcrane scale hook

What to consider when purchasing?

 

  • What are you going to be weighing? You need to think about the maximum capacity you’re going to need so you don’t overload the crane scale. Are you a company who only weighs goods up to around 3t or are you going to be weighing much heavier items upwards of 20,000kg? Either way there are many capacities to choose from, but this does have an impact on the price.
  • Do you need a trade approved crane scale? Are you selling or buying product depending on how much it weighs? If the answer is yes, you will need to choose a crane scale that is “trade approved/verified”.
  • How accurate do you need the crane scale to be? Do you need a weight reading to the nearest 0.2kg or 5kg for example? Keep an eye on the division size.
  • Do you have something secure enough to suspend the crane scale from? Crane scales don’t have to be used on an actual “crane” they can be suspended from a bar on the ceiling or even a special attachment to a forklift. Before purchasing you need to ensure you have somewhere safe to hang it that will be able to bear the weight of the load.
  • How far away will you need to see the reading from? Do you need a large bright display, a handheld device or printer connection?

Did you know we can offer Crane Scale Calibration?

 

Crane scales need to be calibrated using specialist equipment and trained engineers to ensure they're giving you an accurate reading. We would recommend this is done on an annual basis. Get in touch today if you'd like a price for Calibration & Certification of your Crane Scale. We have ISO 9001:2015 accreditation.

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