Scales and Balances

PCE Instruments offers a wide range of scales: industrial scales, laboratory scales, precision scales, table top scales and many more. All of scales possess the characteristics and performance necessary to take measurements quickly and safely, and they come with a 2 or 3 year guarantee depending on the model.
A lot of our scales can transfer data to a computer for further analysis, some have piece count functions and others hopper functions. The balance some calibrated and can also come with a DIN ISO certificate. Also, if required our calibratable models can be adjusted to suit your needs.
Call us if you cannot find the scales you are looking for to perform the job effectively: our offices can be contacted on +44 (0)2380 987030 or you can request a copy of our catalogue of scales (printable version) in which you can browse our vast selection of scales at your leisure and compare the various models.
Below there is a selection of our scales scales in a general index with links to the corresponding products where you will be able to see some images of specific products we carry in this range which will help clarifying the types of instruments you may be looking for. A legal verification of scales (only for verifiable models) can be done by us (class II and class III) or by an authorised verification centre for class II. Once an authorised verification has been performed, the scales cannot be calibrated when using an external calibration weight. An authorised verification is valid for 2 years, at which point a verification must be performed annually. For companies that have an internal control or external audits, it is acceptable to perform an annual ISO calibration. The ISO certification comes with an additional document containing the test values. The certification can also include the company's address and details.

Together with our range of scales and the professional assessment of our engineers and technicians, we also provide an alphabetical list of relevant terminologies to help our customers in familiarising with our products before purchasing them.

Absolute density: determination of the weight of an object in units of milligrams (mg), grams (g), kilograms (kg) or tons (t).

Accurate weighing scales: Accurate scales can be found in our general index. Their accuracy, wide weight range as well as their high quality, are the most valuable factors which convince customers to buy our products.

Adjust: establishing an exact magnitude of measurement in a device, such as a scale, by technically intervening with the measurement system.

Adjust weight range: this can be done by using a control weight and the adjustment setting (CAL), or with an internal automatic adjustment connection. This is required due to changes in temperature, changes in ambient conditions, location change, etc. This adjustment should be done routinely throughout the day.

Analytical scales: In our product range you will find analytical scales which come with software and the possibility to measure with an accuracy of 0.01 mg (more analytical devices are available upon request).

Authorisation of adjustments to scales: calibrations of scales are documented once the device has been authorised. The device must first be submitted to a technical calibration test which is done by an official organisation, usually a state meteorological institution. The technical requirements of the measurement and the specifics of the device are taken into consideration. This authorisation is documented with an EU certification (IEC Type approval certificate). This EU authorisation is valid across all member states of the EU.

Authorisation of scales: this is carried out by the PTB Federal Office. scales can only be adjusted if there is an authorisation for this format.



Calibration: According to EU directives 90 / 384 / EWG, all scales should be officially calibrated if they are going to be used in:
a) Commercial ventures where the cost of a product is determined by its weight.
b) The manufacture of medicines in pharmacies, such as in the analysis in medical laboratories or pharmaceuticals.
c) For determing fees, tariffs or official fines, also for technical expertise in court cases.
d) The manufacture of packaging.
All scales are tested in an authorised calibration centre and are identified with a calibration mark. This marking corroborates its accuracy within the tolerance frame of calibration. The scope of EU calibrations extends across all the member countries of the EU.

Calibration of scales with an automatic adjustment or with an automatic connection. All the previously mentioned references lose validity, which can be managed by an automatic adjustment after a calibration. In this case the calibration is done independently of an enclosure.

Calibration value: measured by the calibration tolerance according to the type of scales, between 1 and 10d.

Calibrate: to establish a correction of the magnitude of measurement in a device without intervening in the system of measurement. Example: testing of scales with a test weight. The term 'calibrate' used to mean 'adjustment'.

Calibrated / non-calibrated scales: in respect to technical measurements, they are almost identical. In case of scales which can be calibrated, some prescribed specifications exist, such as software modifications or additional labels.

Capacity indicator: a luminous band ascending on the display indicates the occupied weight range and the available range. It eliminates the risk of intentionally going out of range.

Minimum load (min): lower limit of an adjustable measurement range. It can be found indicated on the adjustment plate. scales can also function below the minimum load.

Calibration certificate: document containing the technical characteristics of scales or test weights, which are traceable to a National Standard.
Certification according to DIN EN ISO 9001: the certification shows that a company meets with all the required quality management system according to DIN EN ISO 9001 standards. After consulting the appropriate authorities, a certificate can be obtained according to the quality management system standard DIN EN ISO 9001.

Characteristic line of scales: graphical representation of the weight indication of the scales with weight control from zero up to a maximum load.

Commercial scales: class III scales. These typically include shop scales.

Commercial weights: weights of OIML within error limit class M3.

Compensation for electromagnetic energy: electronic analysis scales and precision scales of higher quality operate according to this measurement principle. The base constitutes the physical effect of the energy experienced an electrical coil within current or permanent magnetic field.

Control of the testing method: performance of quality management systems according to ISO 9000 and others such as the GLP. The method of measurement (scales) and the methods of control (weights) have to be tested at defined intervals, to determine if a calibration is required. This test should include documentation.

Conventional value of a weight: effect of a weight on scales under ideal circumstances: material density 8000kg/m³, relative temperature 20°C, density of air during the measurement 1.2kg/m³.
The conventional value of a weight is facilitated by precision weights, and the present oscillations due to the density of air up to ±10% do not have to be taken into consideration.



Declaration of conformity: the declaration of conformity documents that a product corresponds with EU directives. In terms of electronic scales, they come with the CE certification mark.
Declaration of conformity for scales

Determination of percentage: for example, the reference weight of a sample before drying it is 50g = display of the scale at 100%. After drying, the sample is 40g = display of the scales at 80% absolute (dry mass) or 20% relative (humidity).

DKD: German calibration service.
An authorised DKD laboratory for issuing calibration certificates.

Division: in digital scales, this is also called Reading capacity d. In non-mechanical scales, the minimum value is indicated in a scales composed of lines and figures that are read by way of an index or indicator.

Document of conformity: when scales are calibrated a document of conformity is drawn up by the authority carrying out the adjustments.

Dosing scales: Many of our scales are used as dosing scales. The economic platform scales are giving way to special dosing scales which are more expensive. Solidity, wide weighing range and high accuracy are the main advantages of dosing scales.

Duration of the validity of a calibration of scales: analytical scales of calibration class I, 2 years; precision scales of calibration class II, 2 years; industrial scales of calibration class III, 2 years; all other classes, 1 year.

Duration of the validity of a calibration of weights: weights in error limit class E2, 4 years; weights in error limit class F1 - F2, 4 years; weights in error limit class M1 - M3, 4 years, weights in all other classes, 1 year.



EA: European co-operation for Accreditation (previously WECC or EAL). Regulates the mutual international recognition of DKD certificates for scales. Link for the EA.

Effects of air: each body experiences a push of air, a loss of weight, that does not disappear when using highly accurate weights. To neutralise this, in practice, a conventional weight value is introduced. The effects of air should be taken into consideration when weighing an object.

Error limit for scales: refers to adjusted scales. The error limit refers to the permitted tolerance which means the allowed deviation of weight. There is a difference between error limits from the first adjustment and error limits used by the scales.

Error limits for weights / classes of error limit: a weight's error limit corresponds with the permitted tolerance, which means the largest allowed deviation from the nominal value. Error limit classes for weights are established by OIML in a strict hierarchical manner.

Error limits when used: they are the double of error limits for scales for their first adjustment. They are the permitted error limits for scales in use.

External test weight: (calibration weight), used to adjust or calibrate precision scales, also see 'Adjust weight range'. An external test weight can come with a DKD certificate.



Filter to adapt to ambient conditions: they filter the sudden movements increasing the number of internal measurement cycles in the scales or increasing the time of integration. It is additional security above the control status that is eliminated in a measurement value that is being read or printed too quickly. Different levels of filters can be adjusted. See also weighted value.



Gross weight: weight of an object including packaging and or the transport container see also Net weight and Tare.



Heavier / lighter weight: for testing quality: load the scales with a nominal weight - reset the tare to zero by pressing the TARE key, which saves the nominal value - all measurements taken will be shown in relation to the nominal weight.

High resolution scales: under this denomination are analysis scales and precision scales with a resolution of >100,000 digits. The resolution is calculated from the weight range: reading capacity d
Example: weight range of 300g, at a reading capacity of 0.001g corresponds to 1mg, the resolution = 300,000 digits.
scales - Classifications of accuracy

Hook scales: On our website you will find hook scales for the industry. Industrial hook scales have a big display which makes it easy to read the weight properly.

Hopper scales: Many of our scales are used as hopper scales. The economic platform scales are giving way to special hopper scales which are more expensive.

Household scales: Within our range of household scales you can find all types of scales for kitchen usage. Household scales have many advantages including their ease of use and a tare function making it convenient to put together ingredients for recipes.

Humidity scales: PCE humidity scales are designed for both industrial and professional sector. Humidity scales can determine the remaining dry matter after a drying process with infrared energy of the original matter which must be previously weighed.



Influence of temperature on scales: these are physical conditions and can only be corrected with internal device compensation. It is necessary to adjust scales after a change in temperature. >> Adjust.

Ingress protection (IP): the higher the number, the better protection against dust and water that the scale's enclosure has. IP 54 is standard for scales. Table of the types of Ingress Protection

Indication of an overload: shown on the display of scales when a minimum or maximum load is exceeded.

Industrial scales: this covers a wide range of scales, covering tabletop scales, platform, scales, crane scales as well as scales used for shipping and receiving.

Interface parameters: almost always RS-232 C. to connect directly to a computer or printer.

Internal test weight: like the external test weight, but is incorporated within the scales and functions using a motor.

Inventory scales:We offer you a wide range of inventory scales as well as scales for weighing items, reference scales or verified industrial models for professionals which are used either for piece counting function or for weighing.

ISO 9000 and higher: quality management system within the quality assurance standard for companies known as DIN EN ISO 9000 and above.

ISO / GLP protocol: in quality assurance systems, it's necessary to print weighting results, first values, and the weight correction adjustment with the date and time, as well as the scales identifier. The easiest way is by connecting a printer.



Laboratory scales: under this classification you will find analytical scales and precision scales.

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display): term used to identify a type of display which incorporates liquid crystal and is not illuminated on its own.

LED display (Light Emitting Diode): It uses the light emitted from light diodes to display values or indicators.

Linearity / Correction of scales: maximum deviation of the weight display with respect to the test weight value across the entire range.

Load control at scales edges: control of the scales when a load is placed near the edge of the weighing pan.

Load cranes: On our website you will find load cranes for the industry. Industrial load cranes have a big display for reading the weight properly.

Load scales: On our website you will find load scales for the industry. Industrial load scales have a big display for reading the weight properly.



Margin of error for scales: the uncertainty in measurements characterises the range in which you will find the real measurement range.

Maximum weight range: operating range for scales. scales can be loaded up to the maximum load limit.

Metrology: measurement discipline of measurement units and systems. In the case of scales, it is directly related with the calibration technique. Also see OIML

Metric carat: a metric carat is 1ct = 0.2g. It is used for determining the weight of precious stones.

Micro scales: Analytical scales which can take a minimum load of between 5g and 50g, with a reading capacity d = 0.001mg or higher.

Mixing components: weighing different components in a receptacle allowing for them to be mixed, for making recipes. >> Total net



Net weight: weight of an object excluding packaging and or the transport container >> Gross weight, >> Tare.

Newton: the Newton (N) is a unit of force in the System International (SI).
A body accelerates at a force of 1 kg for 1m/seg².

Number of reference pieces: number of pieces needed to obtain a representative weight reference for piece counting. Usually between 5 and 50 pieces.



OIML: International Organisation of Legal Metrology. This organisation regulates the metrics of legal calibrations (Metrology). A link for the OIML



Package scales: In the general index you will find package scales for mailing/shipping. With package scales you will be able to calculate immediately the weight of the object which is going to be sent. Package scales can be used for various purposes.

Paper scales: On our website, you will find both mechanical and digital paper scales for professional weighing of sheets of paper in g/m² (in relation to a square meter of paper).

Pasteur tube: manual device that offers the possibility to measure the weight of small quantities of liquid.

Piece counting: if you weigh, for example, 10 equal pieces, the reference number of pieces is 10. scales automatically determine the average weight by the quantity of pieces. From this moment, the identical components to count are referred to as pieces. A larger number of reference pieces results in a more accurate calculation.

Precision scales: You will find precision scales in our general index. Our precision scales convince people by their accuracy, their wide weight range as well as by their high quality. Many of our precision scales have a built-in level to direct scales with a high precision an accuracy.

Prototype of the International kilogram: Also called 'the original kilogram' and it is the base unit for the mass. This piece of 1 kilogram is kept in Paris. It is the global standard for the metric system from which derive gram (g), milligram (mg) and ton (t).

PTB: Physikalisch Technische Bundesanstalt in Braunschweig. This Federal Offices responsible for the legal Metrology OIML in Germany. In the case of scales, they regulate calibrations.



Re-adjust: periodical testing and adjustment of scales by an authorised centre. Also see 'Duration of validity of calibration of scales'

Reading capacity d: the smallest legible value on scales.

Recalibration: periodical measurement of the method of measurement or control, to test its correction.

Recovery of the national norm: the ISO 9000 standard ensures that all measurements meet the defined tolerance of the official standard. Also see 'International prototype kilogram'.

Reference weight: the representative weight for piece counting equal components. Also see 'Number of reference pieces'.

Repeatability: (standard deviation) the coincidence of repeated measurements under the same conditions. Usually 1d or less. Qualitative characteristic.



Scales for carat:On our website you will find scales for carat for weighing both carats and jewellery. In some models of our scales for carat weighing units (grams or carats) can be chosen.

Semi-micro scales: analytical scales with a reading capacity d = 0.01mg.

Surface scales: Mechanical and digital surface scales used to obtain the weight of a sheet of paper in g/m² are available on this site.

scales with 'stand by': they partially shut down if not being used. This eliminates the start-up time when they need to be re-used, which saves time.

scales with various ranges: scales with a variety of different weight ranges. Each weight range begins at zero and stops at the maximum load for the scales. Each weight range has its own reading capacity "d".

Start-up time: the amount of time from when the scales are turned on until it has reached its operating temperature.
This is almost always indicated in the user's manual. Also see 'Changes in temperature'.

Systems (Hanging): We offer you an overview of the hanging system which is ideal for both trading and leisure. Hanging system has almost all the weighing ranges (from 20 g to 10 t) and is equipped with a shockproof device.



Tare: the possibility to reset the display to zero once a receptacle is placed on the weighing pan. This can be done as often as required with electronic scales. The tare is subtracted from the device's maximum weight range. For example: the maximum weight range is 6000g, the tare (= a receptacle) 470 g, maximum available weight range = 5530g.

Tare weight: weight of the container or packaging of an object. Also see 'Gross weight' and 'Net weight'.

Temperature range: the range in which scales can be used. If the scales are used in temperatures too high or low, errors can occur.

Terrestrial forces: destabilising influence on electronic scales. The scales should be adjusted in an enclosure as the device's energy will be different at different points of the earth.

Test weights: weights that correspond with a measurement class of error limit M1 of the OIML. Used for testing precision scales and industrial scales.

Thermo scales: PCE thermo scales have been designed for the industrial and professional sectors. Thermo scales can determine the remaining dry matter after a drying process with infrared energy of the original matter previously weighed, so humidity is calculated in relation to the weight of the wet matter.
Tolerance of a measuring device: each device has an indicated tolerance to physical conditions. Tolerance defines the most deviation allowed. Also see 'Error limit'.

Total net: the possibility to put the weight in separate memory locations for making recipes. The net total is the sum of weights of all the components, excluding the weight of the receptacle and can be calculated at the press of a button.



Validation: document demonstrating that a process is more appropriate for performing a tare.

Verification: document demonstrating that the device has met with an established requirement.

Verifiable scales: Our online offer includes a range of verifiable scales with a readability of 0.01 mg and available software.



Weight: the weight of a body is a physical magnitude. It is measured by the effect of the inertia of a change in velocity, such as an attraction to other bodies. Weight is always the same, independent of the effects of air and the attraction to the earth. The metric unit is the kilogram.

Weight differential: determination of the difference in weight of an object after a process, such as drying. Both weights are taken on the same scale under the same conditions.

Weight range tolerance: The upper and lower value limits are individually programmed into the scales either with weights or by using the keypad. To classify a luminous bar oscillates between value limits and an acoustic signal is emitted. Limit values are done in grams (g) per piece or percentage (%).

Weighing table: analysis scales and precision scales should exclude all sudden movements. The solid stone plates should rest upon wall mounted consoles or stable tables. Their horizontal position should not need to be modified.

Weight value: indicated by the scales after weighing. This is usually shown in either (g) or (kg). Results can be simply read or printed.

Wind screen: apparatus that protects the weighing pan against disruptive movements produced by the air flow. It is required by precision scales with a reading capacity d <10mg. It comes with all analytical scales.