In this article, we explain the difference between a bench and counting scale, highlight the functionality of these electronic scales, and recommend some popular digital bench scales and counting scales used by our customers…
What is a bench scale?
Bench scales are small and robust weighing scales that are often portable and used to weigh smaller items and are typically used on a worktop or bench, hence the name ‘bench scale’. Many digital bench scales are manufactured using stainless steel, making them ideal for use in wet and dry environments because they can be easily washed down.
Bench scales can be trade-approved and non-trade-approved depending on what the use for the digital scale is.
Trade-approved bench scales
If you are a business buying or selling products based on their weight, a trade-approved bench scale is needed. This is dictated by the Non-Automatic Weighing Instruments (NAWI) directive, a piece of legislation that was introduced to protect consumers. Trade-approved scales undergo strict testing to ensure they are accurate, reliable, and give repeatable readings.
The Ohaus Ranger 3000 Bench Scale is a great example of a trade-approved bench scale, and it benefits from a maximum weighing capacity of up to 30kg, together with stainless steel plate and a 40mm backlit LCD display.
If you are weighing items and not buying or selling the goods based on weight, then a standard bench scale will suffice. The Super SS Bench Scale is a great example of a digital bench scale that also weighs up to a maximum capacity of 30kg, has stainless steel construction, and can be powered using a plug or rechargeable batteries which could be useful if the scale is positioned in an area with no power supply.
What is a counting scale?
Counting scales can be a type of bench scale, however, there are some floor counting scales available on the market for heavy-duty industrial use.
Generally, a counting scale is small to medium in size and is specifically designed to count small components and checkweighing.
Counting scales can be trade approved or non-trade-approved, again, dependent on their use. If they are being used for items that are bought or are going to be sold based on weight, you will need a trade-approved counting scale.
Trade-approved counting scales
One of our popular trade-approved counting scales is the Ohaus Ranger 4000 Counting Scale. This counting scale has four application modes:
- Weighing
- Parts Counting
- Checkweighing/Counting
- Accumulation
It’s also available with a range of capacity options, 1:1,500,000 internal counting resolution, and auto-optimisation software that reduces errors.
Why should I use a counting scale over a bench scale?
If you need to calculate how many smaller components you have, for example, bolts, a counting scale would be the better choice between a bench scale and a counting scale.
A counting scale counts and weighs objects simultaneously meaning you reduce the need to manually count the items. This is achieved by using a sample weight of the product, either weighing the first piece or manually entering the detail in the keypad yourself. The scale counts by dividing the total weight by the sample weight, so only one type of product must be weighed out at once.
For more information and specifications for various bench and counting scales, please click here. Alternatively, please get in touch with one of our team who will be happy to advise you on the best digital scale for your requirements.
