Weighing System for Alloy Feeders | Precision Measurement

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Weighing System

Definition

The Weighing System is a critical component of the Alloy Feeder System responsible for accurately measuring the weight of alloy materials (such as aluminum, magnesium, zinc, or other metal alloys) during the feeding process. It ensures precise material dosing according to production recipes, directly impacting product quality, material efficiency, and process control in metal manufacturing operations. The system typically uses load cells or strain gauge sensors that convert the force exerted by the material weight into an electrical signal. This signal is processed by a controller or indicator to display and transmit the weight measurement. In continuous feeding applications, it may employ belt scales or loss-in-weight technology, while batch systems use platform or hopper scales. The Weighing System is designed for integration into automated production lines, providing real-time weight data to a PLC or other control system via a 4–20 mA analog output or RS-485 communication with Modbus RTU protocol. It operates within a temperature range of -10 to 50 °C and requires a stabilized 24 V DC supply (±10%). The system's accuracy class is III per OIML R76, with a weighing capacity of 0–100 kg and a resolution of 0.01 kg. Repeatability is ±0.02 kg, and linearity is ±0.03 kg. The load cell is made of 17-4PH stainless steel (ASTM A693), and the housing and contact parts are stainless steel, with aluminum alloy for structural frames. The system has an ingress protection rating of IP54–IP65 (IEC 60529) and consumes ≤5 W. The net weight depends on platform size and capacity, typically 15–25 kg. For any specific application, verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier.

Working Principle

The Weighing System operates on the principle of converting gravitational force into an electrical signal. Load cells or strain gauge sensors deform under the weight of alloy material, causing a change in electrical resistance. This change is measured and converted into a weight reading by a controller or indicator. In continuous feeding, belt scales or loss-in-weight systems measure the rate of material flow, while batch systems use platform or hopper scales for discrete weighing. The system provides a 4–20 mA analog output or RS-485 digital communication for integration with PLCs. Calibration and verification are essential to maintain accuracy within specified repeatability and linearity limits.

Common Materials

Stainless steel (for housing and contact parts), Aluminum alloy (for structural frames), High-grade steel (for load cells and mechanical parts)

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Weighing Capacity	0–100 kg	Maximum mass of alloy material per batch
Resolution	0.01 kg	Smallest readable mass increment
Accuracy Class	III	Legal metrology class for industrial scalesOIML R76
Repeatability	±0.02 kg	Maximum deviation between successive weighings
Linearity	±0.03 kg	Deviation from ideal straight-line response
Operating Temperature	-10–50 °C	Beyond this range accuracy may degrade
Supply Voltage	24 ±10% V DC	Stabilized DC required for consistent performance
Power Consumption	≤5 W	Includes load cell excitation and electronics
Ingress Protection	IP54–IP65	IP65 for dusty/wet environmentsIEC 60529
Load Cell Material	17-4PH	Stainless steel for corrosion resistanceASTM A693
Output Signal	4–20 mA	Analog current loop for PLC integration
Communication Interface	RS-485	Modbus RTU protocol supportedTIA/EIA-485
Net Weight	15–25 kg	Depends on platform size and capacity

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Load Cell
Converts mechanical force (weight) into electrical signal for measurement

Material: Stainless steel with strain gauges
Weight Indicator/Controller
Processes signals from load cells, displays weight, and controls feeding operations

Material: Electronic components in protective housing
Weighing Platform/Hopper Part
Container or surface that holds the alloy material during weighing

Material: Stainless steel or carbon steel
Signal Cable
Transmits electrical signals between load cells and controller

Material: Shielded copper cable with protective jacket

Application & selection

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits

pressure:	Atmospheric to 0.5 bar gauge (typical feeder environment)
other spec:	Flow Rate: 0-100 kg/min (typical alloy dispensing), Slurry Concentration: Not applicable (dry granular/pelletized alloys), Accuracy: ±0.1% of full scale, Resolution: 0.01 kg
temperature:	0°C to 50°C (operating), -10°C to 60°C (storage)

Media Compatibility

✓ Ferroalloys (FeSi, FeMn) ✓ Non-ferrous master alloys (Al-Ti, Cu-Cr) ✓ Pure metal additives (Mg, Ca, Si)

Unsuitable: Highly corrosive molten metal environments (e.g., direct contact with molten aluminum with high chlorine flux)

Sizing Data Required

Maximum alloy dispensing rate (kg/hr)
Required weighing accuracy (% of full scale)
Alloy material density and particle size distribution

Risk, maintenance & compliance

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause

Load cell drift

Cause: Environmental factors (temperature fluctuations, moisture ingress) or mechanical overload causing permanent deformation of strain gauges, leading to inaccurate weight readings over time.

Signal interference/noise

Cause: Poor cable shielding, improper grounding, or electromagnetic interference from nearby equipment disrupting the low-voltage signals from load cells to the indicator/controller.

Maintenance Indicators

Inconsistent or fluctuating weight readings under static load conditions
Audible grinding or scraping noises during platform movement or load application

Engineering Tips

Implement regular calibration schedules using certified test weights and environmental compensation adjustments to maintain measurement accuracy
Install proper cable conduits with adequate shielding, maintain clean/dry junction boxes, and ensure all electrical connections are secure and corrosion-free

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards

OIML R76-1 - Non-automatic weighing instruments EN 45501:2015 - Metrological aspects of non-automatic weighing instruments

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision

Accuracy class: ±0.1% of applied load
Repeatability: ≤0.05% of capacity

Quality Inspection

Calibration verification with certified test weights
Environmental testing (temperature, humidity, vibration)

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

Compare the published product scope and source details, then include your specifications and quantity in an enquiry.

Manufacturers of Weighing System

8 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Guangdong Kenwei Intellectualized Machinery Co., Ltd.

Zhongshan, Guangdong, CN

Also makes: Checkweigher, Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) Machine, Packaging Machinery and 2 more