It doesn’t matter what industry you operate in, accurate weighing will always be a requirement if you want to provide quality products and services. From pharmaceuticals and manufacturing to retail and mining, precision is mandatory for compliance reasons, among others. Even the smallest weighing errors can lead to significant issues, from quality control problems to financial losses, so you need to do what it takes to prevent this from happening. In this blog, we’ll talk about the most common weighing errors equipment get, what they mean, and how you can address and prevent them from happening again.
The Hidden Influence of Environmental Factors
Environmental conditions often contribute to weighing errors that go unnoticed. Even the mildest drafts, temperature fluctuations, and vibrations can impact how well weighing scales perform, so you need to be very mindful.
Solution: To minimise environmental impacts, you need to exercise a certain degree of control in your workplace. You can do this by placing or installing your equipment on a stable, vibration-free surface and away from sources of drafts or temperature changes like air conditioners and windows. Additionally, always allow equipment to warm up in the space before use, as sudden temperature changes can affect readings. If possible, create a confined space where you can combat these changes.
Be Wary of Improper Calibration
Scale calibration is the foundation of accurate weighing. It doesn’t matter if you have the most expensive or advanced weighing equipment; if it’s not calibrated up to standards, it will still produce erroneous results that can result in financial losses and more issues.
Solution: Stick to a consistent calibration routine. The principle of weighing balance is an easy guide to help you understand how your equipment should function under ideal conditions. It also highlights the importance of using certified calibration weights for the most accurate outcomes. If you’re put off by the idea of doing all this work on your own, there are many professional calibration services that meet industry standards you can use.
Incorrect Use of Tare and Zero Functions
Incorrect use of tare and zero functions is another frequent cause of weighing errors. In simpler terms, tare subtracts the holder or container weight so you can measure the net weight. Meanwhile, zero in this context refers to the process of resetting the scale values so it reverts to a true zero reading.
Solution: Weighing balance SOPs allows you to measure the actual net weight of a certain item accurately. You can work with companies like Hunter Weighing to make sure that these factors are accounted for in all your equipment in any line of business.
Understanding Mechanical or Technical Error Codes
Not all weighing scale error codes are spelled out in digital displays (some equipment don’t even have monitors) so even if they indicate a problem, operators won’t always know what’s wrong from the get-go. But it’s important to be knowledgeable about these codes because you can lose precious time and other resources by not proactively researching what they mean.
Solution: Familiarise yourself with the error codes for your specific weighing scale model. All of these errors are provided by manufacturers in their guides. To make things more convenient, find a digital copy so you can easily search (use the find function) what the code means and get the help you need immediately. The sooner your issue is fixed, the sooner you can resume operations.
Routine Maintenance and Cleaning: Preventative Measures
Dirt, dust, or residue on a scale can affect its accuracy, especially for precision balances used in labs. Over time, these elements can accumulate and cause errors by interfering with the balance mechanisms.
Solution: Regularly clean the weighing scale according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Additionally, routine maintenance checks should be scheduled to detect wear and tear that could lead to more significant issues.
When picking a weighing solution supplier, it’s essential to ask targeted questions to ensure alignment with your operational needs. Inquire about their experience with industrial weighing scales. Confirm their calibration service capabilities, response times for technical support, and familiarity with industry-specific standards to guarantee reliable performance and long-term value.
Best Practices for Accurate Weighing
Accurate weighing isn’t just about the equipment; it’s also about proper handling, consistent procedures, and a controlled environment. By understanding and addressing these common weighing errors, you can improve your weighing accuracy, minimise waste, and ultimately boost productivity. Prioritising regular maintenance and training on best practices will save time and reduce the risk of errors in the long run. Get in touch with Hunter Weighing today and figure out those weighing errors and what can be done to address them.
