How to Test Accuracy or Calibration Drift on Trade Approved Scales

Purchasing trade-approved scales ensures legal compliance for buying and selling by weight. Although trade-approved scales can be more accurate, over time scales can become uncalibrated as a result of wear and tear, damage, or even battery issues. To test the accuracy of your scales, either use a simple test by weighing two options and checking their weights together, or purchasing test weights. If the scales are faulty, they’ll need to be calibrated, or you’ll have to purchase a trade-approved replacement. 

Scale users rely on their accuracy across a vast array of industries, to provide precise and accurate measurements as well as promising quality control in production. Put simply, the accuracy of your balance scales is non-negotiable. 

If the scales were faulty this would mean you could not legally sell any products until it was repaired or a trade approved spare/replacement used. In a laboratory environment, even the slightest issue with measurements can create a totally different substance to the one you’re aiming for. 

Bear in mind that there’s a difference between accuracy, precision, and readability. Precision refers to how consistently a scale gives the same measurement for the same object, while accuracy refers to how close the measurement is to the actual true value. Readability is the smallest increment the scale can display. A scale can be precise but not accurate, or have high readability but still be inaccurate.

Whether you’ve bought a new set of balance scales or you’re working with the old faithful’s that you’ve had for years, regular accuracy testing is a must to ensure you’re conducting your business fairly and accurately. 

You can test the accuracy of your balance scales in a few ways. Let’s explore them. 

Simple Test

One of the easiest ways to establish whether your balance scales are working as they should be is to pick two objects and weigh each one individually. Make a note of the weight of each object. 

Then, weigh the two objects together on the same scale. The weight shown should be the combination of the individual weights added together. If it is, the scales are likely accurate. 

Another way is if you have multiple scales. Use the weight across each scale to see which ones produce anomalous results.

Test Weights

Calibration weights can test the accuracy of your scales, as well as testing LOLER, but they’re ideal for establishing whether your balance scales are working as they should be. 

Calibration weights calibrate weighing scales and ensure consistent weighing performance. They can be used across all types of scale balances and come in a range of weights and materials. They’re particularly common in industries such as labs and pharmaceuticals, where accuracy is non-negotiable. 

Different calibration weights are suitable for different levels of resolution, so consider the type of scale you’re testing as well as your budget when you look to buy calibration weights. At Scales and Balances, we offer a wide range of calibration weights to help test the accuracy of your balance scales. 

E1 class calibration weights are the most precise on the market, perfect for machines with very fine resolutions. M1 class test weights are the most commonly used, suitable for when exact precision isn’t a must, for machines without an especially fine resolution.  

Here’s how you can use test weights to check the accuracy of your scales:

1. Use certified test weights that match your scale’s readability.
2. Place the scale on a flat, level surface to increase accuracy.
3. Zero the scale.
4. Place the known weight in the centre of the scale’s platform using gloves or tweezers.
5. Check if the displayed weight matches the test weight’s actual value.
6. Test with multiple weights to verify accuracy across the scale’s range.
7. Record any discrepancies.
8. If the scale is inaccurate, seek professional calibration.

Why Are My Scales Inaccurate?

Most of the time, balance scales lose inaccuracy as a result of time, wear, and tear. There’s not much you can do to prevent accuracy loss, however, it’s much less likely if you invest in a set of high-quality balance scales from a brand that promises a long lifespan. 

Sensors can malfunction over time, and in battery-powered scales, accuracy issues can point to a problem with the battery, which might need replacing. 

The Most Accurate Types of Balance Scales

Ensuring accuracy and precision starts the minute you choose the types of balance scales you’ll use. Some are more accurate than others. Trade-approved scales, for example, have to meet an industry-approved standard, so they’re almost always more accurate than their non-trade-approved counterparts. 

If you work in a laboratory setting, precision and analytical scales offer the most precise and accurate readings to the smallest of measurements. 

If you work with a third-party supplier that offers access to a wide range of scale brands and types, you can find the most accurate balance scales for your needs easily. At Scales and Balances, our expert team are ready to recommend scales promising accuracy and precision. 

Selling everything from analytical scales to trade-approved scales in both floor and portable sizes, we’re home to a huge and varied range of accurate scales. The best part? There’s something for every budget. 

Explore our extensive range today and find the perfect set of accurate scales for your needs.