IP65-Rated Platform Scales Solve Multiple Weighing Tasks

The SFE Platform Scale is Easy to Clean
The SFE Platform Scale is Easy to Clean

Platform scales are workhorses of weighing, often finding themselves in environments that cause less rugged weighing systems to fail.   The new Kern SFE platform scales, now available from Tovatech, build on the ruggedness and reliability of platform scale weighing systems.  Their silicon-coated load cells and separate free-standing or wall mounted stainless steel control panel/display units are packaged in IP65-rated housings.  This means these high-precision but rugged platform balances are totally protected against dust.  When exterior surfaces need cleaning they resist low-pressure jets of water.*

Three Models with Readouts of <1 oz

SFE platform scales provide maximum weighing to 15, 30 and 60 kg (33, 66 and 132 pounds).  Respective readouts are 5, 10 and 20 grams (all less than one ounce).   Easy-to-follow instructions allow operators to use the control panel to perform a variety of weighing tasks including recipe, tolerance, and animal/dynamic.   Tolerance (check weighing) to an upper/lower value is supported by a visual and audible signal. A pre-tare function discounts a known container weight, including that of the optional stainless steel tare pan.

These platform scales operate on standard current or an internal rechargeable battery pack providing approximately 10 hours of service before a 12 hour recharge.  The battery charge condition is noted on the LED display.

Preparing and Using the SFE Platform Scale

Before using the SFE weighing system the balance must be adjusted in accordance with the effects of gravity at its location by using an external calibration weight.  The process is outlined in the SFE operations manual but in brief,

  1. Turn the scale on and allow the scale to stabilize
  2. Initiate the calibration program as described in the instruction manual
  3. Place a calibrated test weight (not furnished) approximating the scale’s maximum weight on the platform
  4. The balance will carry out a self-test. Remove the adjusting weight during self test and the platform balance will return into weighing mode automatically.

These steps should also be undertaken on a regular basis as outlined in your company’s operations manual or if the scale is moved, or if there is a significant change in temperature.   

Then you can use the keyboard to program the scale for the type of weighing you are undertaking.  Manually and carefully place material to be weighed in the center of the SFE weighing plate. As soon as a stable weighing value is reached the weighing value can be read and recorded.

For more details on the versatile SFE platform scale or other precision weighing equipment contact the scientists at Tovatech.

* IP protection requires using the rechargeable battery pack instead of connecting to a 120-volt outlet

About Rachel Kohn

So how did an MIT Ph.D. end up selling refrigerators? When I figured out that a lot more scientists buy lab refrigerators than innovative leading-edge instruments. I hope that my many years of lab experience will help you find the right equipment for your work. Before co-founding Tovatech I worked in business development and project management at Smiths Detection, Photon-X, Cardinal Health, and Hoechst Celanese. And before that I spent 12 years as an R&D chemist at Hoechst Celanese and Aventis working on advanced drug delivery systems, polymer films and membranes, optical disks, and polysaccharides. Some day, eventually, I’ll make enough money to develop an innovative technology that will change the world. Read More