Monorail Scale Guide: How to Be An Expert Buyer

Btek monorail scale

Nowadays, weighing scales are necessary for many industries, including the food, pharmaceutical, and logistics sectors. There are different scales with various features to suit specific industrial needs, such as railroad and truck scales. One of these is the monorail scale.

Monorail scales are commonly used in facilities where there is a need to weigh large and bulky items. These scales are designed to be installed on a single rail track. Here’s an overview of monorail scales and their benefits.

What Is a Monorail Scale?

A monorail scale is used for measuring the weight of objects (such as carcass) that fit on a single beam. This type of scale is found in factories and other industrial settings. The scale has a large beam that the object is placed on, with the beam being supported by two or four legs. The legs are adjustable so that the beam can be level. 

These scales are instrumental in industrial and commercial settings, such as factories, warehouses, and shipping facilities.

How Does a Monorail Scale Work?

monorail scale by Avery Weigh Tronix holding piece of meat on the hook.

 

Image Source: Avery Weigh-Tronix

A monorail scale typically consists of three main parts: the weighing platform, the load cells, and the indicator. The weighing platform is the spot where the item to be weighed is placed. The load cells are sensors that measure the item’s weight on the platform.

The indicator is a device that displays the weight measurement. Monorail scales are accurate and can weigh items to a very precise degree. Sometimes, they can even weigh items within a fraction of an ounce or a gram.

To use the scale, the object being weighed is placed on the platform. The weight is then added to the platform. The amount of weight needed to counterbalance the object being weighed is read from the scale. The scale can be used to weigh objects that are up to several hundred pounds. 

Types of Monorail Scales

Rice Lake monorail scale

 

Image Source: Rice Lake

There are typically two types of monorail scales: static and in motion. Static are best suited for weighing large, stationary objects that do not require frequent moving. 

These scales are designed to support large weights and can handle objects up to several tons. Static monorail scales are standard in industrial settings, such as factories and warehouses.

Meanwhile, in-motion monorail scales are better suited for weighing smaller objects frequently moving from one place to another. You can choose between the two based on your specific needs.

Monorail scales have a variety of applications, including:

  • Weighing containers during filling or emptying processes
  • Checking the weight of materials before and after packaging
  • Inspecting the weight of vehicles before and after transportation
  • Measuring the weight of livestock

Another lesser-used type of monorail scale is the overhead scale. Overhead scales are crane scales used to weigh large and bulky items. These scales are suspended from an overhead monorail system, making them ideal for weighing objects that are difficult to move or transport.

These scales are functional in factories and warehouses to weigh materials during manufacturing. You can also use them to weigh vehicles before transportation.

Benefits of Monorail Scales

Monorail scales have many benefits, making them ideal for different industries. Some benefits include:

  • Inexpensive Maintenance: Since they have fewer moving parts, they require less maintenance than other scales. Thus, you’ll save money on maintenance and repairs over the lifetime of the scale.
  • High Accuracy: They are known for their high accuracy, which is essential in many industries.
  • Durable: They tend to last the test of time, even following heavy use.
  • Easy to Install: They are relatively easy to install, which is helpful if you’re unfamiliar with scale installation.
  • Simple to Use: These scales are very user-friendly, so you’ll be able to train your employees quickly and get them up and running on the scale in no time.

Features to Look For in a Monorail Scale

A monorail scale is a handy investment, as it has many applications. 

If you’re thinking about purchasing one, here are some features to keep in mind:

Certificate of Conformance

Make sure you buy a monorail scale with a Certificate of Conformance from the NON-NTEP. The Certificate of Conformance certifies that the scale has been tested for accuracy and is compliant with national standards.

Size and Weight Capacity

These scales come in a range of sizes, so choosing one that can accommodate the items you’ll be weighing is essential.

Pay attention to the scale’s maximum weight capacity. Some models have a higher weight capacity than others. If you plan on weighing heavy items, choose a scale that can accommodate them.

For example, the American Scale B-TEK Stainless Monorail Scale has a maximum weight capacity of 2,000 lbs. You can also opt for custom models with a weight capacity of up to 4,000 lbs.

Accuracy

Accuracy is essential when it comes to scales. After all, you want the scale to give you an accurate reading, so look for a scale with high accuracy.

Regular calibration is also important to ensure accuracy. Most monorail scales come with a calibration certificate.

Durability

These scales are built to last. They’re made with durable materials that can withstand heavy use. However, some scales may have a substandard construction that could impact their longevity.

The B-TEK Stainless Monorail Scale has stainless steel construction, and the exposed surfaces are sandblasted for a consistent and clean appearance. You can expect such a scale to last you for years.

Live Rail Size

The rail should be long enough to accommodate the items you’ll be weighing. For instance, the B-TEK scale mentioned above has a 24″ x 2-1/2″ x 1/2″ standard size rail.

This length is good for most applications. However, custom models are also available if you need a longer rail.

Find the Best Monorail Scales at American Scale

Monorail scale being calibrated by an American Scale technician

Monorail scales are very accurate and are used in many industries. Whether you need one for rent to meet your short-term needs or require a long-term solution, American Scale has you covered. 

We offer a wide range of monorail scales with the features discussed above. If you have any specific needs, you can opt for custom options suited for your applications. Contact American Scale today to learn about our customization options