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Getting to the Point of Point Loading
When weight isn’t properly dispersed across a scale, it can cause complications over time. Point loading often strains the scale and can risk warping it permanently, so it’s important to use a scale designed for point loading if it's necessary.
What Is Point Loading?
The manner in which a load is positioned on a scale drastically impacts scale performance and longevity. Most scales are designed to weigh a widely dispersed load. For example, a floor scale can repeatedly weigh large shipments on pallets because the load is spread across a wide surface area.
However, the same weight can cause complications if it is not dispersed. If placed on a tote with casters, the load creates focused points rather than a dispersed load. This is known as point loading.
Repetitive, near-capacity point loading can damage a scale’s physical integrity. A floor scale’s top plate may warp at point loading locations, eventually leading to scale failure.
Common Applications with Point Loads
Point loading can occur in any environment and at a variety of scale capacities. What matters most is how the load is distributed. Typically, it occurs with:
- Containers on wheels
- Pallet jacks
- Forklifts
- Repetitive weighing patterns or “traffic lanes”
With these weighing applications, it’s especially important to monitor how loads are being weighed to ensure scale longevity. Always keep in mind the weighing habits at your application before deciding on a scale.
Some manufacturers can design custom scale solutions for applications with point loading. Scales can be built with thicker top plates or additional support to reduce the impact of point loading.
Scales for Concentrated Loads
Rice Lake Weighing Systems offers customized RoughDeck® floor scales with thicker top plates that can withstand point loads. Backed by repeatable accuracy and strong structural designs, RoughDeck floor scales can handle any challenge.
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