Accuracy Counts: Common Counting Scale Questions

Counting scales are used in various departments and industries to count multiple units of the same, identical item. Understanding the functions and components of counting scales is important so they can be used appropriately.

How Does A Counting Scale Work?

A sample size is used to verify scale accuracy before the official counting process begins. The scale takes the total weight of the sample then divides it by the weight of an individual item.

What Size Sample Should Be Used?

The sample size depends on the items being counted. The minimum sample size should be 10 items, but a larger sample size of 50 to 100 pieces is recommended to achieve the best accuracy. Count the items in groups of ten, by hand, before placing them on the scale to verify the scale is counting correctly.

However, your task may not need such a large sample quantity. Consider the following when deciding your sample size:

• Is a 10-piece sample a sufficient weight on the platform? The sample should be at least 0.1% of the total capacity.

• How uniform are the parts that will be weighed? A larger sample size provides sufficient data to determine the most accurate unit weight.

How Can Counting Scale Accessories Save Time?

Pairing a scanner or printer with a counting scale streamlines processes and eliminates incorrect documentation. Scanners accurately transfer data in a fraction of the time, whereas replicating data manually can be time-consuming and may lead to errors. With an associated software program, the operator can scan barcodes and begin counting immediately. All data can be uploaded and downloaded to the software for easy organization and access. Printers can also be connected to print count data and eliminate the possibility of incorrect transposition or illegible handwriting.

Depending on the application, one or more platform scales may be needed in addition to the counting scale. Multiple scales can be used without introducing different information in different places, and all counting activities for one part number can be recorded in one place.

How Do You Size A Counting Scale?

Sizing a counting scale means choosing the proper scale with the capacity and resolution to accurately weigh and count items. The internal resolution of the scale must be less than or equal to the weight of one part. Best practices would require the weight of 10 parts to be equal to 0.1% of the total capacity. The scale's capacity should handle your largest container of the heaviest parts. For counting items in larger quantities, two to three platforms may be needed.

What Is the Accuracy of A Remote Scale?

A secondary platform scale, also known as a remote scale, is used in tandem with the main counting scale. The pair can be connected wirelessly or with a cable and can be placed in convenient locations for simple operations and access. Remote scales allow you to view and manage counts from a distance, which is especially helpful when handling large or heavy items.

The unit weight determined on the counting scale is used to dictate the count on the larger scale. For example, a 5,000-pound counting scale with a one million-count resolution divides 5,000 into 1,000,000 parts. This means each internal resolution is translated to 5,000/1,000,000 or 0.005 pounds.

When discussing the accuracy of a remote scale, the weight of the parts to be weighed on extra platforms is an important consideration. To obtain the best accuracy, ensure the sample scales are not larger than 10,000 times the piece weight. The second scale can be used for sampling in a three-platform system. With three platforms, you can effectively sample and count smaller parts on the first and second platforms, then use the third as the bulk.

How Many Scale Platforms Do You Need?

The number of platform scales needed for a counting system is determined by the product being weighed and the accuracy desired. A counting scale is used to determine a more accurate sample size, so the sample size can be used to count pieces in bulk more accurately. A good sample size is key.

What Is the Difference Between Average Piece Weight and Unit Weight Per Thousand?

Average piece weight refers to the weight of each individual item. Average unit weight per thousand refers to the weight of an item in regards to its volume rather than mass. Unit weight per thousand is also a more accurate reading.

For example, if a screw weighs 0.00594 pounds, that would be the average piece weight. If we were to display this as unit weight/1,000 we would discover the screw actually weighs 5.94 uw/1,000. If the average piece weight window is limited to five digits, the unit weight per thousand allows the significant digits to be entered without being “crowded out” with the leading zeros. The lighter the part, the more it affects accuracy.

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