FAQs
What does 200 kg x 0.05 kg mean?
The scale will weigh up to a maximum of ‘200 kg’ and the ‘readability’ also known as ‘resolution’ or ‘division size’ is ‘0.05 kg’ i.e. the display goes up in 0.05 kg increments.
Do I need a calibration certificate?
A calibration certificate provides verification that the weighing equipment has been checked and has been found to be reading within the specification quoted. Weighing equipment is compared against calibrated test weights and the information on the certificate gives traceability back to national standards. A traceable certificate provides the documentary evidence of calibration as required by a quality system such as BRC or ISO accreditation etc.
(Calibration certificates do not make the scale Trade Approved)
Calibration certificate options and prices are on the product pages.
Do I need a “Verified For Trade Use” scale?
If you are buying or selling by weight, the scale or balance must be ‘Trade Approved’, also known as ‘Verified for Trade Use’, ‘Stamped’, ‘Weights & Measures Approved’ or ‘Class III Approved’.
Only certain scales can be Trade Approved. Accuracy tests are carried out on the scale and stickers added to the scale to confirm the tests were successful.
Medical scales used in Hospitals, Doctors’ surgeries and Pharmacies etc. must be ‘Class III approved’ when used for treatment or diagnosis.
Scales used for buying or selling gold and silver must be ‘Class II Approved’.
How often should I have my scales calibrated?
Typically we suggest that weighing equipment is calibrated annually and certificated if required. But for critical or high accuracy applications it is recommended that the equipment is checked daily prior to use. A longer certification frequency of two or three years can be justified if the accuracy drift between calibrations is much smaller than the accuracy that is required and if the application is not critical.
What are the accuracy classes for test weights, M1 , F1 etc.?
Accuracy (100g & up) – Class of weight (Suggested use)
+/- 0.1% – Proof Load Test Weights (LOLA testing etc)
+/- 0.05% – M3 (Check/calibrate course scales)
+/- 0.005% – M1 (Check/calibrate standard scales)
+/- 0.0015% – F2 (Check/calibrate portable balances)
+/- 0.0005% – F1 (Check/calibrate precision balances)
+/- 0.00015% – E2 (Check/calibrate analytical balances)
How to pack a scale
If the original packaging is not available, choose a sturdy box that is significantly larger than the item so that when the packing material is added, the item is securely held in place and cannot touch the sides. Cushioning and shock absorbing packaging material such as bubble-wrap is the ideal packaging material.
To protect the load sensor, where possible, remove the weighing pan and any under pan support and pack these items separately in the box. If the equipment has a shipping/locking device or screw then secure it as per the manual.
Please ensure that your contact details are sent with the item. Please see the home page for our address.
Please note: We cannot accept any liability for damage caused when an item you send us is damaged in transit.