Crane Scales 101

What is a crane scale?

Crane scales are force measurement devices used specifically for cranes, to verify the weight being lifted and ensure crane capacity is not exceeded. For example, if you’re shipping a product via truck, you’ll have to know how much a given amount of product weighs so you know how much you can load onto each truck.

How do crane scales work?

Crane scales hang vertically with a hook on one end. As force is loaded onto the hook, internal gauges within the device deflect to produce an accurate load reading. Crane scales are essentially dynamometers, but with a hook on one side instead of a shackle.

Why is it important to measure load with a crane scale?

When lifting with a crane, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re not exceeding the lift capacity of the equipment. Otherwise you run the risk of damaging the crane or injuring your workers. Accurate load measurement is also important when verifying the weight of a product before moving or shipping it out.

What are the different types of crane scales?

While both analog and digital crane scales are available, digital crane scales have no moving parts and allow you to connect to external handheld devices, as well as record and store readings.

Dillon/Quality Plus sells two brands of digital crane scales: Dillon and MSI. Dillon’s crane scales use their AP Mechanical, EDJunior, and EDXtreme dynamometers as the base unit. MSI crane scales are purposely built as crane scales/overhead weighing systems.

What factors should I consider when selecting a crane scale?

The right crane scale for your application will depend on the capacity needs, accuracy requirements, and physical environment of the project. If you want to be able to record readings or connect an external handheld device, a digital dynamometer is the best choice.

Additionally, consider how much headroom is available for the application–how much space is there between the top of the load being lifted and the end of the crane boom? Our expert team can help you select the crane scale that’s right for you based on your specific application.