Choosing the Right Scale for Your Farm: Portable, Fixed or Both?

As a farmer, you don’t just need a scale, you need the right setup. The choice between a fixed scale and a portable scale can be tricky – which one will work for you? This blog helps explain what you can expect from either type, and when it might make sense to get both.

What is a Portable Scale?

Portable scales are those that are easily maneuverable from one place to another. This includes both their size and how they’re powered. Because compact and bench scales like Dune and Aqua ABW-S are lightweight and small, they can be carried by one person without trouble, and don’t take up a lot of room. However, their main draw is their rechargeable batteries, which allows you to take them with you into areas that don’t have a ready supply of electricity, like out into a field or a barn.

What is a Fixed Scale?

Fixed scales are those that are difficult to move, like large, heavy floor and platform scales. A fixed scale takes up dedicated floor space and you would bring what you’re weighing to the scale, rather than taking the scale to what you’re weighing. Even if the scale is rechargeable, which most platform scales aren’t, requiring a steady electrical output, you’re not likely to relocate a fixed scale very often simply due to the inconvenience.

Not all small scales are portable, and not all heavy-duty scales are fixed. Whichever you need, we’ll help you make the best choice for your farm.

Power Availability

When making the choice between a fixed and a portable scale, consider how reliable your power supply is. With scheduled load shedding and every outlet precious in the first place, the ability to work without power can be paramount. Animals still need to be fed, given medication in the right proportions, the work must go on! If power is iffy, invest in a rechargeable scale just in case.

For those who have more plentiful power, you should consider where you want to weigh. Would it be easier to take your scale with you, or take what you’re weighing with you? If you’d prefer to leave your scale where it is, you’re likely safe to consider a fixed machine. If not, consider a rechargeable scale just for the ease of moving it!

Environment and Durability

If you want a portable scale for your farm, it must be rugged. The Aqua ABW and ABW-S are washdown scales rated IP67 and IP68 for protection against damage from dirt and water. The IP68 Gladiator series offers larger platforms with capacities up to 600kg. They can survive dust, rain and mud just fine and keep working well.

Fixed scales like the PT platforms, while made from mild steel and durable enough to hold a heifer, aren’t meant to be left in the elements. Ensure it’s on level ground with shelter for the best and most consistent results.

Accuracy & Consistency

You want the most accurate and repeatable results – that’s why you have a scale to begin with. Fixed scales are typically more stable, since they’re always in the same place and in the same position. This is excellent for repeatability. Because portable scales are moved around so often, it takes a bit more effort to obtain accurate and precise results consistently.

Always ensure that the weighing pan is clear, the scale is level, it’s out of direct sunlight, and there aren’t any major vibrations happening in the vicinity (like drilling, stampeding, etc).

Cost, Installation & Long-Term Value

Because fixed scales are typically larger and heavier-duty, they’re a bigger upfront cost than most portable scales, and they’re likely harder to install. However, fixed scales also don’t require as much regular upkeep after installation as portable scales might. It also depends on how much use it’ll get! Overall, portable and fixed scales are balanced in terms of their cost vs. value.

When a Combination Makes Sense

Another option is to purchase one of each. A fixed scale for your larger weighing tasks with a portable scale for everything else. Consider a fixed platform for weighing your livestock with a portable scale for weighing their feed and medication. Or a fixed scale for weighing all produce before shipping to market with a portable scale for categorising in the field while picking.

Consider whether the true solution for you might be investing in two scales!

Whatever you need, Scaletec can help you decide. Give us a call, we’re always willing to chat.