Despite what the rock and scissor industries claim, not all paper is alike! In fact, there are different styles of paper, with varying weights, thickness, and materials.
To regulate these different types and qualities, companies need a way to measure the weights of the paper accurately. Paper scales are designed for exactly this purpose.
At Arlyn Scales, we’ve used, reviewed, and maintained a wide variety of paper weighing scales. Below, our metrology professionals discuss the benefits of using these counting scales to maximize precision in inventory control.
What is a Paper Counting Scale?
Paper scales are a category of counting scales that provide accurate measurements of the weight of paper. This information enables you to determine the quantity of individual sheets of paper.
How to Use a Paper Weighing Scale to Count Paper
Paper counting scales, or simply counting scales, answer three questions:
- How much is the total weight?
- How much does each piece weigh?
- How many pieces or parts are there?
To calculate paper weight, you must find the average weight for one ream (500 sheets) of paper in that type of paper’s average size. It can be difficult to find this type of weight because different types of paper can weigh the same amount, but measure at varying thicknesses.
The best way to measure paper weight is to use a paper scale. Paper scales are also used to measure the weight of paper in grams per meters squared. This means the weight of the paper is measured as it relates to the area of paper.
Different uses for Paper Counting Scales:
-Media production and copy centers use paper counting scales for when CDs, DVDs, and digital media are created, sorted, weighed and packed for shipping. The scales measure stacks of CDs to make sure the packages are not short or too generous.
-Plumbers and contractors use the scales to measure the weight and sizes of copper fittings. This prevents fitting from being too large and makes sure the exact amount of necessary copper is used.
-Hose, cable, chain and rope manufacturers use paper counting scales by calculating the weight of one size cable. Then the weight of the one cable and the number of feet can be used to determine the feet of other cables, simply based on weight.
-Homebuilders use paper counting scales to measure wire and cable products throughout a home to save overall costs on wiring a home.
In the United States, paper weight is measured in pounds.
Alternatively, it is standard to measure in grams-per-square-meter outside of the US. This is determined by weighing a ream in the basis size of a particular paper.
However, card stock and other paper sizes can also be weighed efficiently with a precision weighing system. Use the same math to convert paper weight (in your local units) to paper quantity.
Office Paper Counting Machines Benefit Any Industry
Paper counting by hand is susceptible to human error, particularly for large orders. Therefore, it’s best practice to use the proper equipment to ensure accuracy.
Paper counting scales are ideal for businesses in any industry. This is understandable, since variations in weight and quantity can cost you cents and dollars, regardless of your business.
Print shops and copy centers, for example, use paper counting scales to weigh business cards and standard paper in 8½ -by-11-inch sheets. A paper counting scale guarantees that your customer receives the correct number of business cards, which maximizes customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Paper Counting Machines Reduce Inconsistencies
The essential function of a paper weighing scale is to eliminate unnecessary costs for you, and excessive complaints for your service team. These tend to occur when your products are inconsistent, with some using too much material and some using too little.
Types of Paper Weighing Scales
A basic type of paper scale is the digital paper scale. Digital paper scales are accurate enough to even be used for laboratory functions.
These paper counting scales feature digital weight indicators for industrial scales. This improves your control and boosts clarity when weighing a variety of materials in relation to a square-meter of that material.
As an example, a digital paper scale can be used to weigh fabrics, papers, or even floor tiles. As with many types of digital scales, the output is displayed in a digital numeric format.
Different Uses for Counting Scales
There are nearly endless applications for an industrial paper weighing scale. First, homebuilders use paper counting scales to measure wire and cable products throughout a home to save overall costs on wiring a home.
Plumbers and contractors use the scales to measure the weight and sizes of copper fittings. This prevents the fitting from being too large and ensures that you use the exact amount of copper that is necessary.
What Other Industries Use Paper Weighing Machines?
Media production and copy centers use paper counting scales for when CDs, DVDs, and digital media are created, sorted, weighed and packed for shipping. The scales measure stacks of CDs to make sure the packages are not short or too generous.
Finally, hose, cable, chain and rope manufacturers use paper counting scales by calculating the weight of one size cable. Then the weight of the one cable and the number of feet can be used to determine the feet of other cables, simply based on weight.
What to Look for in a Paper Weighing Machine
An accurate paper counting scale relies on several, vital features:
- High Resolution
- High Readability
- Predictable Repeatability
- Fast Stabilization Times
- Portability
- Durability
A paper scale must offer high resolution and readability to ensure that your platform can detect minute changes in weight. A good level of repeatability guarantees that multiple measurements don’t yield different results that could change prices or add to your frustration.
The typical stabilization time for paper scales is two seconds. A fast stabilization time allows users to weigh more items in a shorter period of time, with fewer pauses and delays.
A Paper Counting Scale Must Be Portable & Durable
A paper counting scale, like a handheld calculator, is best used everywhere. That way, the scale can go to the objects, instead of objects always having to be delivered to the scale.
An AC adapter and the option to add battery power maximizes portability. This enables you to use the unit in your office or on the road, and the AC adapter recharges your paper counting scale at a moment’s notice.
However, a paper counting scale must also be durable for the rigors of portability. For example, storage and transport in industrial warehouses and manufacturing can pose hazards that your unit must be prepared to endure.
More Features to Look For When Reviewing Paper Scales
We recommend an easy-to-use interface with several rich digital displays and fewer buttons that require less of the user. The displays should show total weight, unit weight, and quantity.
You should also opt for an internal memory that keeps a running count of items. This allows for multiple measurements, and it saves time when weighing large loads that contain several smaller packages.
For example, you could accurately measure a box of CDs spindles that contain CDs on each spindle. Finally, your scale should feature a buzzer or light to alert users when the payload meets or exceeds a certain quantity or weight.
Stay Precise with Paper Counting Scales from Arlyn Scales
Paper weighing scales are the most accurate way to determine weight, of course, as well as quantity. Many in the paper industry use these types of scales for quality control, ensuring that the paper being produced matches what the label claims.
If your business is in need of paper scales, then Arlyn Scales can provide you with high-quality paper scales made with the highest quality workmanship. Here, you are certain to find reliable, durable, and accurate scales that exceed your expectations and serve the needs of your business.
To learn how you can use a paper counting machine to improve inventory control and quality at your business, reach out to our team today.
