While scales and balances are both used as weighing devices, their intended purposes slightly vary. A scale is used to measure weight (weight = the force of gravity on an object on the scale) whereas a balance is used to measure mass. (mass = the amount of matter in an object).   

 

Scales VS Balances – the basics. 

While the design and inner functions of a scale will vary between brands, size, and even country, they all work the same by calculating weight and measuring force. Essentially, the scale takes then measures the force of the load converting the information to the reader. While scales are common in grocery stores and even household bathrooms, they’re used for precise measurements in the medical industry, through to weighing transport 

One of the earliest forms of measuring, a balance determines mass by balancing an unknown mass against a known mass – think of a see-saw. Today, most modern balance instruments typically use a force mechanism to create a balance by the force exerted by the unknown mass.  

 

Scales VS Balances – the nitty gritty 

Today’s terminology would define a balance as a scale with a higher resolution. Balances have features including mass unit conversion, counting, percentage, limit functions for check weighing, or specific-gravity weighing. Scales, on the other hand, have gross, tare, and net indications, printing, and units-of-measure conversion. 

In terms of components between the two, a scale normally consists of a load cell base, a display, A/D and CPU processor. A balance on the other hand may have a load cell, force restoration, or tuning-fork weighing mechanism, a display, processor, and display graduations in excess of 100,000. 

While scales normally do not specify repeatability, balances typically do have one displayed graduation. Although both the scale and balance could be used to weigh a product, balances have limited capacity and size in order to maintain high display graduations. 

 

Purchasing – Which is best for me? 

Choosing between a scale and a balance largely depends on how you want to use the product. Will you be weighing large trucks or small batches of pharmaceuticals? Will you require indoor or outdoor use? While there are many things to consider, here are what we consider to be the top two: 

  1. Readability: Typically, balances offer better readability than scales, especially when used for weighing in smaller increments.
  2. Capacity: How much weight will you be weighing? Don’t underestimate! Doing so could mean a faulty read or an expensive repair/replacement.  

 

If you still have more questions about the difference between a scale and a balance or if you’re ready to make a purchase give us a call toll-free at 1-866-284-2223. From heavy truck and vehicle scales to floor scales and portable scales, Active Scale has the solutions to meet your weighing challenges. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a weighing scale?

A scale is a measuring device that is used to determine an object's weight. To physically measure how much an object weighs, almost all weighing scales rely on load cells. When you put weight on a scale, the load cell bends slightly, changing the electrical signal that runs through it. The analog signal change of the load cell is then read by an electronic device and converted to a digital weight value.

What are different types of balances ?

The different types of balances are as followed: 1. Spring Balance 2. Top loader Balance 3. Analytical Balance 4. Equal arm Balance 5. Portable Balance

What are different types of scales?

While there are scales of many types, it typically depends on the industry or use of the scale. At Active Scale, we offer many types of scales including: Vehicle/truck scales, industrial scales, hopper scales, overhead rail scales, and even some custom solutions! Contact us to learn more.

How Do I check or balance a scale?

The process of calibrating, checking, testing, or verifying a scale is also significantly different than calibration with adjustment for a balance. Calibration verifies correct performance of the balance or scale. First, you need to power up and exercise the platform. Do this by applying light pressure with your hand or on a larger scale by walking around the corners. Then, perform the following tests: Check for repeatability by placing a weight 10 times in the centre Check for sensitivity or discrimination test by applying a check weight at no load, half capacity, and full capacity Complete a build-up test by applying weights to cover 10 different weigh points Check for off-centre loading by placing a weight equal to ¼ or 1/3 capacity in the centre Check to make sure the platform is within tolerance error Complete uncertainty of measurement calculation if required