8 Tips for Safe, Accurate & Efficient Load Measurement

As leaders in industrial load measurement and control, we believe that the first step in getting safe, accurate measurements begins with your load measuring devices. Here are our top tips for using load indicators to help ensure correct and efficient load management. 

1. Cross Check Accuracy & Capacity—Then Use the Right One

The relationship between the weight of your load and the capacity of your rigging gear and lifting equipment is crucial. It’s essential you know how much your lifting equipment can manage otherwise you may risk a topple.  When it comes to selecting a load indicator, there are a wide variety of devices available capable of handling a huge range of different load capacities with varied accuracy ranges. That means that when selecting the right load measuring device for your use case, keep in mind not only your expected load weight, but also your potential device’s accuracy range. For example, a lower weight capacity load indicator (40 lbs to 400 lbs) with a ± 0.5% accuracy range leaves you with a 0.2 lbs to 2 lbs margin of error, depending on the actual load. Make sure your lifting equipment’s capacity can account for this range in accuracy when selecting your measurement device.

2. Use Your Tare Weight & Peak Hold Features 

Knowing the unladen weight of your containers can be essential to making the right assumptions when it comes to lifting and shipping, as well as any taxation that may be associated with your load. Likewise, knowing your peak hold is useful when weight is applied and removed quickly or when your load is being weighed and processed at the same time (eg, when pressure or other processing could affect weight). These key features assist in both accuracy and efficiency—look for them when evaluating your load monitoring systems and put them to good use. 

3. Stay on Top of Your Units of Measurement 

It should go without saying that any load indicators you purchase should be able to toggle back and forth from metric to imperial units of measurement. Check yours are set to the right system as a best practice every time to prevent costly mistakes. 

4. Check the Temperature

Temperature range is an easy feature to overlook. Some load measuring devices can be affected by extreme temperatures, reducing the accuracy of measurements. For a wide range of use, we recommend a load measuring device with an operational = temperature range of -4°F to 120°F (or -20°C to 50°C). Whatever the range of your particular device, make sure you’re well within it. 

5. Be Smart About Power Supply & Battery Life

Battery-operated load indicators are great for simple ease of use. Obviously, the longer the battery life, the better. To avoid errors, keep on top of your system’s life and replace your batteries before they start to run low. 

6. Don’t Overlook Your Unit’s Ergonomics

When it comes to load indicators, we like rugged, lightweight devices that are easy to transport and can withstand a fall or two. From a design standpoint, devices with snag-free angles help reduce impediments during lift operations, while large LCD displays make readouts easy—and difficult to misinterpret. 

7. Get Tech Savvy

Today’s load monitoring systems have upped the standards when it comes to weight measuring. From remote and wireless displays and loading and monitoring software to downloadable apps that let you manage your device from your smartphone, load measurement has never been easier. If you’re in the market for a new device, make sure it offers these accessories and add-ons. 

8. Stay Up to Speed on the Latest Training

Load measuring requires skilled operators, heavy equipment, and various rigging components. Whether your business engages in force measurement testing, research and development, towing applications, safety and rescue operation, or simple overhead weighing and heavy hoisting, it’s up to you to make sure your employees are well-versed in standard safety and operating procedures. 

Load Measuring Devices You Can Trust

Despite the wide range of options available, it may seem like all load measuring systems are the same. At Tractel®, our products are known for their pinpoint accuracy, durability, and quality, helping you ensure a safe lifting environment every time. Our equipment is tested to the highest standards and backed by a team of experienced engineers. With a wide capacity range from 40 lbs./20 kg to 250 t/227 mt, our solutions are reliable, robust, and can be customized to integrate into your existing lifting system. Interested in finding the right system for your worksite? For further information, contact your local Tractel® representative.