Volume vs Weight Batching
A question we often hear customers ask is if they should be using weigh modules or flow meters for different batching or tank applications. Each has specific pros and cons associated with batching. While flow meters often are less in upfront investment, they typically have more issues associated with them depending on your product. They are also much harder to maintain and will shut production lines down for longer. Weigh modules are usually easier to operate and maintain but are more complex with initial setup and communication.
Volume Based Batching
When we look at a system that is built using a volume-based solution, we usually see flow meters attached inside of the feed or exit piping of the system. Flow meters operate by measuring how fast or slow the liquid product is moving through the piping of the system. These are tied to an indicator of some sort to measure how much of the ingredient has flowed into the tank. These solutions are often times less accurate due to a number of different factors. For starters, flow meter readings vary based on the physical properties of the ingredient. Viscosity, pressure, temperature, and consistency all have an effect on the flow meter reading. There are also inaccuracies due to the consistency changes of the flow.
Often times the flow of the product is not measure correctly when the system is ramping up or down. Spill loss is also a consideration with flow meters, due to where they often sit inside of the piping of a system. Flow meters are also more difficult to maintain, due to their location inside of a production system. However, flow meters do have less of an upfront cost when installing into a system. They also require basically no operator interfacing, which means that there is no training needed on the part of your operators.
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Weight-Based Batching
Weight batching is a highly accurate, more consistent means of controlling a batching process. Weigh modules are often placed under a tank or from suspension points to measure the gain 
and loss of mass to the vessel. With a weigh module system, the physical properties and state of the batching solution doesn’t matter since the weigh modules are outside of the process itself. These systems have been used to measure applications ranging from concrete mixtures to full liquid processes. Weigh modules are also easier to maintain than volume-based batching solutions, due to their location in the process and how easy they are to get to.
The only concerns with accuracy on a weight batching system would be regular calibration of the equipment by a local provider. Weigh module systems have a higher upfront cost, but with a higher ROI due to longer life of the equipment. There is more training for operators on terminals, but batching systems with a dedicated batching controller have many more options for automation. Batching controllers also give you advanced weighing options, such as preemptive flow control to avoid overfilling or over batching.
Measuring volume or weight ultimately depends on your process. Flow meters are typically less of an upfront investment, which may work for applications where accuracy is not imperative. Weigh modules are typically the best solution for when accuracy is vital to the success and profitability of the operation. At Carlton Scale, we work primarily with weighing devices like weigh modules to improve production processes. Request more information to find out if weighing devices are right for you!