Category Archive: Blog

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WITH PORTABLE VEHICLE SCALES

When measuring the weight of vehicles, accuracy and portability are two crucial factors to consider. Portable vehicle scales have gained popularity recently due to their convenience and versatility. For farmers, trucking companies, and government agencies, having access to reliable and user-friendly scales can help save time and money while complying with weight regulations.

It is important to remember that not all portable vehicle scales are equal in quality and features. Therefore, knowing what to look for when considering a purchase is crucial. This article will discuss the essential features and elements distinguishing a good portable scale.

Elements of a High-Quality Portable Vehicle Scale

To ensure reliability and ease of use, a good and effective scale should possess certain elements that set it apart. Here are some of the key components making up quality weighing equipment:

Accuracy

A good portable scale should provide accurate weight measurements within a reasonable margin of error. The error should ideally be around 0.1–0.2% of the total weight. This level of accuracy ensures that users can rely on the scale’s readings to make informed decisions regarding the weight of their vehicles.

The type of scale affects accuracy. For instance, scales that use wheel weighers can provide more accurate measurements than those that use axle scales. The number of load cells the scale uses is also important to consider. Scales that use more load cells are generally more accurate as they distribute the vehicle’s weight more evenly.

Durability

The durability of the scale is determined by various factors, including the design, components’ quality, and materials used during construction. Typically, a scale built with high-grade materials like aluminum or steel is more durable than equipment made with subpar materials. Moreover, a good product should have a robust and stable design that can withstand harsh environments and rough handling.

Weight Capacity

The weight capacity is the maximum weight the scale can handle, typically expressed in pounds or kilograms. Therefore, when choosing a vehicle scale, it is essential to ensure that the weight capacity matches or exceeds its weight. Otherwise, the risk of damaging the equipment or obtaining inaccurate readings will increase.

User-Friendliness

One of the essential features of a user-friendly portable vehicle scale is its ease of setup and installation. The scale should come with clear instructions and be straightforward to assemble without requiring specialized tools or technical knowledge. The display interface should also be easy to read and interpret, with clear and accurate measurements that are easy to understand.

Calibration Options

Calibration is critical to any vehicle scale, as it ensures the accuracy and reliability of the scale’s measurements. One of the primary calibration options is manual calibration, which typically involves adjusting the scale’s settings to match a known weight. This option allows the user to calibrate the scale whenever necessary, ensuring accurate measurements.

Another option is automatic calibration, which involves the scale calibrating itself based on specific parameters, such as time or temperature. This is convenient as it requires less user intervention, but it may not always provide the same level of accuracy as manual calibration.

Data Management Features

Data management features allow users to store and manage data related to their weighing operations. These provide valuable insights and facilitate record-keeping and compliance with regulations. One critical element is integrating with other systems, such as logistics management software. This allows for streamlined record-keeping, reducing the risk of errors and improving efficiency.

Here are other data management features:

  • Report generation and data analysis tools
  • Real-time data monitoring and display
  • Data export options for easy sharing and analysis
  • User access controls for data security
  • Cloud-based data storage and backup

Choose Carolina Scales for Exceptional Industrial Weighing Equipment

Carolina Sales is committed to delivering exceptional service and leveraging our industry knowledge to surpass our customers’ expectations! Our expertise lies in the sale and service of precision weighing equipment, including material batching and blending systems, PLCs, and weighing control systems. Moreover, we offer comprehensive calibration services and maintain an extensive rental scale inventory.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and capabilities or request more information!

USED TRUCK SCALES

Truck scales are essential equipment for businesses transporting and selling goods or products by weight. However, investing in a new scale can come at a steep price. Thus, buying used truck scales is a great alternative for those seeking a cheaper option. These scales provide a practical and economical solution for companies requiring accurate product weighing without incurring exorbitant costs.

Used truck scales are weight measurement equipment previously owned and used to weigh commercial vehicles, including trucks, trailers, and other heavy-duty machinery. They come in various sizes, from small portable models to large, permanent installations.

Advantages of Used Truck Scales

Opting for used truck scales instead of purchasing new ones can offer several benefits, such as the following:

Cost Savings

New scales can come with a hefty price tag, particularly for larger or permanent models. In contrast, choosing used equipment can result in significant cost savings for businesses without compromising the precision of weight measurement. They may also include warranties or service agreements that can further reduce company maintenance and repair expenses. This is especially advantageous for startup or low-volume users.

Reliability

Used truck scales have a proven track record of use, which can be reassuring for businesses prioritizing reliability. They have undergone rigorous trials in real-world situations, and their accuracy and durability have been tested over time. This means business owners can have more confidence in their equipment and rely on them to provide consistent and accurate measurements.

Availability

Businesses have numerous options when purchasing a used truck scale, with various types and sizes available. This includes onboard scales, small portable scales, and more. In addition, used scales are always in stock. Thus, businesses can avoid the long lead times associated with ordering new equipment, which can take up to 42 to 52 weeks to manufacture.

The availability of used truck scales also means businesses can find equipment that fits their budget. Since secondhand is generally more affordable than brand new, companies can find a reliable scale without spending more money than necessary.

Quick Installation

Unlike new scales that need to be manufactured and assembled, used scales are already pre-built and ready for installation. This means the installation process can be much quicker, reducing downtime. Additionally, some used scales may even come with installation services from the seller, further streamlining the process and making it more convenient for the buyer.

Sustainability

By opting for secondhand equipment, businesses are contributing to reducing waste and extending the lifespan of the equipment. This is a responsible and eco-friendly option for companies prioritizing sustainability and wanting to reduce their environmental impact. Furthermore, purchasing used scales can indirectly support the circular economy by reducing the demand for new equipment and encouraging the reuse of existing resources.

Versatility

Used truck scales have a versatile range of applications across various industries, such as agriculture, mining, construction, and transportation. They can also be adjusted to weigh different types of vehicles and loads, making them adaptable to changing business needs. This feature benefits companies that need to weigh an array of products, as they can use the same scale for multiple applications.

Carolina Scales: The Leading Provider of High-Quality Industrial Weighing Equipment

Since 1950, Carolina Scales has been delivering premium quality industrial weighing equipment to multiple industries! We focus on selling and servicing weighing equipment, including material batching and blending systems, PLCs, and weighing control systems. We also offer full calibration services and have an extensive selection of rental scales.

Get in touch with us today to explore our products and services, or request more information to kickstart your project with us!

KEY CONSIDERATIONS WITH INDUSTRIAL FLOOR SCALES

Click to ExpandKey-Considerations-With-Industrial-Floor-Scales

Industrial floor scales are large, heavy-duty scales for accurately weighing large items or bulk materials in industrial settings. They also determine the weight of a shipment, measure the mass of manufacturing materials, and monitor inventory levels.

Compared to traditional scales that use numeric displays and a few buttons, modern industrial scales feature digital interfaces that can be linked to an electronic device. These allow for easier data collection and analysis.

Given the variety of available scales, finding a product that integrates seamlessly with your current production process is essential. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting the right industrial floor scale for your application:

Areas of Application

You can incorporate industrial scales at nearly every stage of the production process. Consequently, one of the initial steps in the selection procedure must include determining the tasks it will perform. The following are common application areas:

  • Order picking for delivery
  • Statistical managing for manufacturing processes
  • Validating ingredients, production quantities, or product quality
  • Weight-based classifying, sorting, and counting
  • Weight verifying and integrity testing

Scale’s Capacity and Size

Selecting a scale’s proper capacity and size is essential for obtaining accurate and reliable weight readings. It will also prevent damage to the equipment or the objects being weighed. For example, if an item exceeds the scale’s weight capacity, it may not provide an accurate measurement or even damage the device.

Likewise, the scale’s size and platform determine the dimensions of objects that can be accurately weighed. For example, weighing large pellets requires a scale with a large platform, or it may not accommodate the object’s size.

Quality

Accurate weight measurements are important for quality control, cost management, and compliance with industry regulations. Thus, a precise and properly calibrated floor scale will increase uptime and productivity. Contrarily, inaccuracy can result in issues, including incorrect billing, product waste, and even fines for noncompliance with regulations.

Digital Readouts

Digital readouts are important for industrial scales because they provide simple-to-read and practical measurements. They can also be linked to other systems to facilitate data recording and storage. In addition, they enable customization to specific requirements or applications.

It is strongly recommended that you choose an industrial scale with a digital readout equipped with remote displays and printers. This allows operators to view and record weight data from a distance, which is advantageous for large or complex operations.

NTEP Approval

National Type Evaluation Program (NTEP)-approved industrial scales have undergone testing and evaluation to ensure compliance with National Conference on Weights and Measures standards. This includes assessing the scale’s construction, calibration, and performance under various conditions.

Having NTEP-approved industrial floor scales ensures you are using reliable and accurate devices that can be used for legal trade. This is especially important for businesses dealing with commercial transactions.

Carolina Scales: Your Trusted Provider of Premium Industrial Weighing Equipment

Choosing the optimal industrial floor scale for your application offers numerous benefits. Some of these are increased productivity, accurate weighing, cost and time savings, and error-free operations.

At Carolina Scales, we combine our industry expertise with exceptional customer service to ensure the best user experience! We provide industrial floor scales with standard models built specifically for various projects and applications.

Visit our website to learn more about our high-quality DIGI and Rice Lake scales! You may also contact us today or request more information about our products and services.

HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT INDUSTRIAL WEIGH SCALES

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How To Pick the Right Industrial Weigh Scales

Choosing the appropriate weighing scale for your industry can be tedious. However, once you have found the best one for your application, that instrument can bring limitless advantages. Thus, it is important to invest in high-quality industrial weigh scales that can improve the efficiency and profitability of your business.

While most companies look for scales solely on price, assessing the scale’s value and effectiveness in relation to your application is equally crucial. This article will examine the factors to consider when picking the right industrial weigh scales.

Key Considerations When Choosing the Right Industrial Weigh Scales

Research is essential when determining which scale best fits your demands. This will help you choose a device that will not restrict your ability to follow compliance and trade requirements, slow down your operations, or reduce the quality of your products.

Before deciding on a certain product, you should consider the following factors:

Use Of The Scale

Various scales have various features and functionalities, so it is essential to determine how you will utilize the scale. For instance, the scale required for weighing bulk materials and containers would differ from a device for weighing small and light products.

Application Area Or Location

Scales are not one-size-fits-all devices, so not every type will match the attributes and capabilities of your application. Furthermore, the environmental conditions to which the scale will be subjected can range from dirty industrial floors to wet outdoor environments. That said, the location where you will use your scale can significantly impact its performance and expected longevity.

Type Of Materials

You can ponder the following questions to gain a clearer picture of what to purchase:

Would you require a liquid-resistant scale if you were handling liquid?
How likely are the fluids being measured to leak onto the scale?
Is it preferable to use portable scales for weighing lightweight commodities?
For large and bulky products, would you require additional support mechanisms?
Accuracy
The accuracy of many scales is within 0.1% of the actual weight, which is adequate for most applications. However, if you are dealing with a product that is very sensitive to weight changes, you will need a scale that is even more accurate. Also, remember that you can achieve better findings through regular calibration.

Capacity

Each scale is constructed with a different purpose; not all are designed to weigh large materials. Therefore, when purchasing a scale, it is essential to know your maximum and minimum weighing capacities and whether or not the scale requires overload protection.

Readability

A scale’s readability corresponds to the number of decimal places it displays. For example, the readability of a big-capacity industrial weigh scale would be 0.1 lb less than that of a smaller-capacity device.

If you require a high readability level, you should buy a specialized scale, typically one with electromagnetic force restoration. However, these are often costly and sensitive to industrial conditions.

Connectivity

Select a scale that is simple to operate and compatible with other computer systems, devices, and printers. Doing so will allow you to improve quality control, workflow tracking, inventory management, and documentation. You may also opt to buy scales that connect readily to other equipment to automate procedures by controlling their output lines.

Choose Carolina Scales for Your Industrial Weigh Scales Needs

At Carolina Sales, we combine industry-specific product expertise with superior customer service to provide a variety of industrial weighing and measuring equipment. We are professionals in selling and maintaining weighing equipment, including material batching and blending systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and weighing control systems.

You can visit our website to browse through our extensive catalog of products and equipment. You can also contact us, and we will gladly assist you!

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT RAILROAD SCALES

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Everything You Need To Know About Railroad Scales

One of the most crucial components of every rail operation is rail weighing. It is an element that aids in expenditure control and compliance in nearly every aspect of train transport — from tracking product shipping and deliveries to avoiding overloading penalties. Therefore, the dependability and accuracy of the methods and technologies utilized throughout the weighing process are critical to obtaining reliable results. And one way to achieve this is through railroad scales.

This article will walk you through everything you need to know about railroad scales, including their importance, procedure, and various types.

What Is a Railroad Scale?

A railroad scale is a weighing technology that uses strain gage systems. It is also used to ensure that the railroad car is not overloaded, which could damage the rail tracks and pose a security risk to the public. In addition, it prevents undocumented cargo and minimizes theft before and after transit.

Several sectors have recently recognized the significance of a railroad scale and have expanded its application for various purposes. For example, the construction and agricultural industries have benefited from rail-scale technology through shipments of industrial parts and food crops recycling.

Importance of Using Railroad Scales

Railroad scales are considered the ultimate technology for accuracy, resulting in cost-effective weighing for transportation and shipping. Here are some of the reasons why these scales are used in a wide range of industries:

To invoice customers for the exact amount of products and goods transported, transaction purposes, and verifying that customers are not overcharged or undercharged.

  • To prevent overloading occurrences that could impact infrastructure and avoid eccentric loading that could cause delays and cancellations.
  • To ensure that potentially damaging shipment leaks are spotted upon entry at the transfer station to avoid hazardous situations.
  • To facilitate chemical components because most existing systems do not possess cavities or structures that lock up air heavier than explosive gasses.
  • To align material flow specifications and manage loads during automated bulk loading to gain maximum capacity without overloading.
  • To calculate the weight to collect the freight revenue from shippers.

How Railroad Scales Work

The scales are installed on the train tracks. First, the total weight of the cargo within the railroad car is calculated by measuring the vehicle’s mass and then applying the tare weight or the weight of an empty car. Then, you can compare it to other data obtained to ensure that the cargo and everything else is in order.

Most Common Types of Railroad Scale Products

The following are different types of rail scales, with each requiring varying site preparation, scale foundation, and track work to ensure a successful installation:

Pit Design Scale

Railcar scales in pit design are constructed into a trench so that the plate or load cell is at floor level. They operate very similarly to a standard human weighing scale. They also have more complicated mechanisms because railcars must pass over the scale to have their weights measured.

Railboss® Railroad Track Scale

The Railboss® Rail Scale from Rice Lake Weighing Systems is a low-cost and simple-to-install piece of equipment for weighing stationary rail cars. It is operated by Rice Lake’s 920i and Railboss software and comes in eight-section full-draft or four-section double-draft configurations. Furthermore, MS quick-disconnect cable connectors are used on these scales to lessen unprecedented repairs and maintenance.

Here are the scales’ specifications:

Standard Features

  • MS quick-disconnect cable connectors
  • 80,000 lb. axle capacity
  • 320,000 lb. full-scale capacity
  • 40,000 lb. rail section capacity
  • 115 RE or 132 RE rail sections
  • Five ft. 10 in rail sections, pre-drilled for joint bars

Full-Draft Package Features

  • (8) 5 ft 10 in rail sections
  • 30 ft of connecting cable
  • Pre-drilled joint bars with connection hardware
  • (2) Rice Lake junction boxes with transient protection
  • 30 ft of homerun cable

Double-Draft Package Features

  • (4) 5 ft 10 in rail sections
  • 30 ft of connecting cable
  • Pre-drilled joint bars with connection hardware
  • (1) Rice Lake junction boxes with transient protection
  • 30 ft of homerun cable

Survivor® PL Low Profile Rail Scales

Another great product by Rice Lake Weighing Systems is the Survivor® PL, a low-profile rail scale design that eliminates the need for a pit to save time and costs on construction and pit maintenance. This rail scale type is deemed to be the highest-performing and the longest-lasting in the industry. The Survivor® PL is manufactured with more steel content than competitive models making it the most durable.

Here are the scale’s other features:

  • 100,000 lb capacity compression load cells
  • Standard platforms sizes: 12 ft 6 in, 15 ft, 18 ft and 25 ft
  • 7 ft 8 in platform width
  • 18.5 in profile from top of pier to base of rail
  • 24.5 in profile from top of pier to top of rail
  • Surge protection kit
  • Built-in conduit runs
  • 1/4 in bolted checkered steel top plate
  • Designed for 115 lb or 132 lb rail (other sizes available)
  • Configurations: Single, single/single, single/double, double and double/double

Survivor® RT Rail and Truck Combination Scale

Heavyweight loads need heavy-duty track scales, and this is what Survivor® RT railroad track scale does. This Rice Lake product has a high-quality weighbridge design that creates a rugged, high-precision, heavy-duty weighing system. This pit-type, rail/truck combination scale is perfect for weighing a variety of car sizes, rail cars, and trucks. Survivor® RT is also ideal for bulk cement, aggregate, grain, scrap metal, and chemical applications.

Here are the scale’s specifications:

  • 200,00 lb capacity compression load cells
  • Standard platform sizes: 60 ft, 66 ft, 70 ft, 72 ft, 80 ft, 90 ft, and 100 ft
  • 4 ft 9 in profile
  • Factory welded modules
  • Steel or concrete deck
  • Lightning and surge suppression kit
  • In-bridge conduit runs
  • 7 in reinforced concrete deck design
  • (1) 24 in square manhole ring and cover
  • Fully assembled factory-welded modules

Carolina Scales for High-Quality Industrial Weighing Equipment

At Carolina Sales, we integrate our industry product knowledge with exceptional customer service to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations. We are experts in the sale and service of weighing equipment, such as material batching and blending systems, PLCs, and weighing control systems. We also offer full calibration services and one of the most extensive rental scale selections available.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and capabilities or request more information to start your next project with us!

Solid Foundation

PRODUCING OVER ONE MILLION TONS OF PRODUCT PER YEAR IS AN IMPRESSIVE FEAT FOR ANY INDUSTRY. At Giant Cement in Harleyville, S.C., this annual quantity reflects the effective strategies implemented throughout their lean manufacturing process. Producing and transporting this amount of cement requires a devoted workforce and equipment that never stops. The 24/7 demands can take its toll on equipment and installing durable scales is integral to keep product moving. Giant Cement requires the most durable truck and rail scales to handle its high volume of trucks per day and constant stream of rail cars so they turned to Carolina Scales when they needed a railroad scale to meet their needs.

Solid Foundation

An existing competitor’s truck scale still resides on its original installation site, inhabiting low ground on the lot and providing a reminder that proper installation is an essential ingredient for optimal weighments. Because of its location, every rainfall washed any nearby debris beneath the scale and would often create pools of standing water. “That scale was a maintenance nightmare,” explains Brad Locker, Industrial Controls Engineer for Giant Cement. “It seemed like we were always calling someone out here to make adjustments or clean the foundation.”

Nate Keisler, President of Carolina Scales, recommended Rice Lake’s SURVIVOR® SR truck scale and custom-designed rail scale which will withstand a cement factory’s high production. Carolina Scales installed the SURVIVOR SR with special considerations for the cement factory’s needs. “Nate really knows his stuff,” remembers Brad. “Because he is a former installer, he gives us a great perspective on our needs for the entire project – not just the scale selection but also what we need for the right installation.”

“Any equipment in this area is going to be put to the test because of the sheer quantity of product they produce,” explains Nate. “I knew they needed the toughest scale possible so I recommended the SURVIVOR SR because of its added strength.” The SR provides increased rigidity and reinforced, easy-access load cell pockets for uncompromising performance and quick maintenance.

Utilizing their experience and knowledge of the site, Carolina Scales installed the SR in an optimal location. The new scale towers above a nearby small drainage pit. This ensures any rainfall is diverted past the truck scale and any debris is carried away in the flow.

Todd Keisler, head of construction for Carolina Scales, is a maestro truck scale installer. He takes every precaution to ensure the scale will last as long as possible. The optimal installation site was a solid foundation for this goal, but Todd went one step further. He ran all conduit along the top of the scale’s prominent side rails, guiding the system’s electronics away from the perils that led to the demise of the competitor’s truck scale.

Carolina Scales’ expertise and the SR’s rugged durability are the perfect combination for the factory’s demanding truck scale needs. One solution was in place, but a more challenging problem resided in the rail car loading area. Here, two 50-year-old rail scales were buried beneath an offset in the track. Once fully mechanical, the scales received an electronic conversion in the 1980s, but the pits were originally built to accommodate the original cantilever system. This required the rails to be slightly off-center and would necessitate a tailor-made scale to match the unusual design. Carolina Scales worked with Rice Lake to custom-design a massive rail scale that would fit the pit and its existing rail, but installation would not be easy. Once the old rail scale was removed, a half-century’s worth of rail-car residue was revealed. It would need to be removed before installation of the new rail scale could commence. “The pit required a lot of cleanup,” Brad remembers. “There was an incredible amount of buildup after fifty years of rail cars passing over the scale. In places, it was so tough to clean that even a jackhammer got stuck. It took a while, but we were finally able to clear out the pit remarkably well.”

Solid Foundation

Once the pit was clean, the colossal rail scale was ready for installation. Its extraordinary weight required a gigantic 200-ton crane, but there was little room for navigation and no room for error. The scale pits were in the middle of the rail car loading station and the crane could not fit inside. An expert crane operator was required to skillfully maneuver the modules into position and gently lower them into the pit. “It was nerve-racking,” Brad says. “The scale had to be exactly the right size to fit the pit and the crane operator had to get them into just the right position. He just went really slowly and once the scales were down, everyone breathed a sigh of relief. They fit perfectly.”

A perfect fit was accomplished, but the rail scales had to meet performance expectations as well. Avoiding downtime is critical for the cement plant. “On the old scales, we would have load cells go bad from time to time,” Brad explains. “It was a huge issue because the scale would typically be down for three or four hours for maintenance. That’s a big reason why we decided to replace them with Rice Lake. One of the best features is iQUBE2® because it can emulate a good load cell if one has gone bad, and keep going just like all the load cells were still good. That’s incredible. We believe the scale will pay for itself just because of that!”

The rail scales are controlled by 920i® indicators, which interface with the factory’s sophisticated PLC equipment. Once a rail car is ready for loading, the delivery chute slowly lowers and self-corrects its position with onboard video cameras. The cameras identify the opening in the rail car and coordinate the chute’s automated guidance system. Once it has successfully created a seal with the rail car, cement powder is released for a few minutes to reach capacity. The next rail car is moved into position and the process is repeated. Giant Cement is always looking for ways to streamline their operation. Reducing downtime and avoiding maintenance costs have captured additional revenue and increased efficiency. Because the new rail scales are more responsive, loading time has been reduced by an average of 5-10 minutes. That increases the factory’s throughput and allows them to process more cement each day.

The increased durability supplied by Rice Lake’s SURVIVOR SR truck scale and custom rail scales provides a solid foundation for the cement factory’s daily operations, and they expect the scales to endure the test of time. “The old rail scales lasted for over 50 years,” Brad concludes. “After seeing the construction of the Rice Lake scales, I’m confident they will last even longer.”

Unlocking durability is the secret to long-lasting scale performance and return on investment.

Contact:

Nate Keisler

President,

Carolina Scales

803-739-4360

nkeisler@carolinascales.com

www.carolinascales.com

Ensuring Accuracy and Reliability During Logging Season

Traditionally, most logging activities are reserved for winter, meaning that we are currently in peak logging season. This is because throughout history, horse pulled carts were the only available method for moving heavy logs. Having a layer of snow on the ground reduced traction, making it easier to drag the heavy load. Though newer methods and equipment exist today, winter has remained a popular season for logging.

Weighing Tools and Equipment for the Logging Industry

Logging industry equipment must be robust, should be assembled from the highest quality parts, and should be able to function accurately, even in extreme conditions of cold and moisture.

Carolina Scales offers companies:

  • Crane Scales & Hanging Scales – These crane or hanging scales are ideal for taking the first weight of the felled logs (at-site) as they are handled by cranes or winches. These scales boast controlled tensioning, a convenient IR remote, properly lit displays to avoid failing vision in winter fogs and s1 bearing swivel hooks that can endure heavy duty applications. Some models like the MSI can even take note of the number of weighments and the total weight. They come with user-defined Peak Load warnings to prevent accidents and machine wear and tear.
    Solid Foundation

    Hanging Scale for Logging

  • Truck Scales – Carolina features a large and diverse roster of manufacturers in this niche, including but not restricted to Intercomp, Rice Lake, B-Tek and UniBridge. There are multi-truck scales available, as well as retro-fitted custom pieces. From portable alternatives to scales for steel and concrete decks, there are models and variants for all heavy duty purposes. Ideally truck scales should be able to weigh all road vehicles and their loads without malfunctioning or needing frequent replacements. Carolina Scales’ recommendations are a perfect blend of durability and weight sensitivity.
    Solid Foundation

    Truck Scales

Carolina Scales embodies reliability, top notch quality, and parts longevity. To know more about how our products support the logging industry, write to us at: info@carolinascales.com.

Improving Ease of Use with Remote Displays for Low Visibility Situations

Every ounce counts. It truly does. Weighing accuracy is undergoing drastic changes with the rising popularity of concepts like big data management and data aggregation. What was once an isolated practice of noting weights of cargo and consignments is now a connected and important activity. Thanks to sensors and intercommunication standards like Modbus, Devicenet and Ethernet companies can monitor weight measurement results from factories, ports, terminals and warehouses to have a very clear idea of how their goods are being handled and if there is any tampering with sealed packages.

Addressing Challenges in Weight Accuracy:

Weighing is generally conducted at touch points. And there might be a number of factors hindering proper measurement. One of the most widespread of these is low visibility during inclement weather or at night.

n order to combat this issue, the use of backlit remote displays is recommended. An ideal display unit is bright, has a non-glare lens, is of high intensity and offers immediate augmentation of visibility. Carolina Scales is a purveyor of such quality products that are compatible with a variety of digital weighing indicators.

Remote Display

Backlit Remote Display

Under the following circumstances, remote displays prove themselves invaluable:

  • Inclement weather at ports and terminals can cloud vision and confuse ‘callers’. Fog and mist are common annoyances and they plague data read out of package weights. A crisp, sharp display cuts through the haze and offers accurate readings.
  • Loadings and un-loadings at inconvenient times of the day may also require visibility aids to facilitate proper weighing. Early mornings and late nights are particularly susceptible to errors. Read outs that have displays in bright colors like red help improve visibility.
  • Weight measurements that take place in poorly lit quarters like warehouses that are typically dim also benefit from remote displays that are back-lit and thus do not require the presence of additional natural or artificial light for spot on readings.
  • Factories and settings that produce a lot of dust and smoke, like foundries or steel mills need sharp remote displays for accurate measurement recording.

Carolina Scales has been serving customers for well over 60 years and is a well-established supplier of weighing accuracy equipment like balances, check weighers, counting scales, crane scales and remote displays of unparalleled quality and precision.

If you would like to know more or request a custom quote, write to us at info@carolinascales.com.

Improving Safety on Construction Sites Using Crane Scales

Solid Foundation

Hanging Scale from
Carolina Scales

As the United States begins to re-invest in critical infrastructure and continues to build taller buildings, we need to recognize the hazards that accompany working with heavy equipment such as cranes.

Many crane accidents come from one of two possibilities – inexperience and/or overloading. The first is something that can be dealt with only through years of training, and teaching operators proper technique. The second, however, only requires the use of crane scales. We can look at incidents in recent years that demonstrate the need for crane scales in large construction projects:

  • In May, ten injuries were caused, traffic was diverted, and thousands of dollars of property damage were caused when an air conditioner broke free from the crane that was lifting it in midtown Manhattan.
  • In July, in Pembroke Pines, Florida, a crane overturned and caused damage to its load due to being overloaded.
  • In the Chicago area in August of 2012, a crane that was lifting a gantry section for an overhead railway signal fell across numerous train tracks due to the load being too heavy, disrupting train traffic for hours.
  • Overloaded cranes regularly cause damage to infrastructure such as water lines, roadways, sidewalk, and more – often, these problems aren’t even noticed until after the crane has left the site.

Had construction crews been using crane scales, and paying attention to the cranes’ weight requirements and load capacities, these accidents may have been avoided. There are numerous other incidents that happen on a worryingly regular basis, leading to damage, injury, and sometimes death, that can be avoided through the use of specialized weighing equipment. Make sure that if you are using a crane in your summer construction project, you are also using a crane scale to prevent accidents from happening.

Carolina Scales is a trusted supplier of crane scales and hanging scales. These scales measure the weight of a load being lifted before it is suspended from a crane, hoist, or winch. For more information, please feel free to call us at 1-800-277-2439, or email info@carolinascales.com.

Providing Weighing Equipment and Services Locally and Across the U.S.

Although Carolina Scales is based out of South Carolina, we sell industrial weighing equipment to customers across the United States. Such customers include warehouses, shipping companies, medical suppliers, construction crews, and more. We have the ability to ship everything from balances to floor scales, bench scales, crane scales, indicators, load cells and everything in between. When a customer is looking for accuracy and reliability, Carolina Scales has the products to give them exactly what they need.

Carolina Scales Map

While our service area includes the Carolinas and Georgia, we’ll also assist customers throughout the U.S.

Not only do our customers get high quality weighing devices, but Carolina Scales offers software that matches each product for optimum functionality. The software is integrated for all parts and has the ability to scan, manage inventory, and streamline record keeping. Some equipment even has software that can give detailed transaction and productivity reports. The software runs off of any PC. This is just one example of how we work to best serve our customers.

In addition, we maintain ISO/IEC 17025 accredited calibrations. A company must first adhere to strict standards outlined by the International Organization for Standardization. Then, getting certified requires an independent company to observe and track how we are manufacturing products so as to make sure the standards are being met. This takes time and a commitment to doing what is best for customers and the environment, and Carolina Scales believes this is the right way to conduct business.

Carolina Scales services local customers throughout the Carolinas and Georgia, although we are more than happy to service any balance, scale, or other piece of weighing equipment that is sent to us from customers who are located elsewhere in the country. We are dedicated to providing the highest customer service. When you call on Carolina Scales, you can rest assured knowing you’re getting a quality product from a quality company.