Mapúa University

School of Mechanical, Manufacturing, and Energy Engineering

ME139L-3

Mechanical Engineering Laboratory

Experiment #8

CALIBRATION OF PLATFORM BALANCE

Lorem Ipsum. Date Performed:

##### July 20, 2024

ME139L-3 / B12 Date Submitted:

Group #1 August 3, 2024

Engr. Gawayne M. Escalona

Professor
 ABSTRACT

The calibration of platform balances is a critical procedure to ensure accurate and reliable

weight measurements in various applications. This lab report aims to understand the principle

behind weighing scales, learn the calibration process of a platform balance, and evaluate the

accuracy, sensitivity, and leverage ratio of the scale. The study also explores the different types

of commercial weighing scales. The theory behind the operation of weighing scales involves

comparing known weights with a system of levers or elastic deformation of objects. Platform

scales are widely used in industrial settings due to their ability to measure large weights. The

experiment involved conducting accuracy tests on both analog and digital platform balances at

different positions and a sensitivity test on the analog balance. The results showed that the digital

platform balance provided more consistent and precise readings than the analog balance. The

sensitivity test revealed that the analog balance could detect small weight changes, ensuring high

precision in measurements. The leverage ratio was calculated to be 0.01, indicating minimal

mechanical advantage but high accuracy in weight measurements. These findings highlight the

importance of proper calibration and maintenance of platform balances to maintain their

accuracy and reliability. The study recommends regular calibration, thorough maintenance, and

choosing the appropriate type of balance based on specific application requirements.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

OBJECTIVES 1

THEORIES AND PRINCIPLES 1

LIST OF APPARATUS 4

PROCEDURE 6

SET-UP OF APPARATUS 8

FINAL DATA SHEET 9

SAMPLE COMPUTATIONS 11

TEST DATA ANALYSIS 12

LITERATURE REVIEW 17

QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS 19

CONCLUSION 22

RECOMMENDATION 23

REFERENCES 24

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OBJECTIVES

1. To be able to know the principle behind the operation of a weighing scale.

2. To learn how to calibrate a platform balance.

3. To determine the accuracy and sensitivity of a platform scale.

4. To determine the leverage ratio.

5. To be familiar with the different types of commercial weighing scale.

THEORIES AND PRINCIPLES

Platform balances, commonly utilized in various industrial and engineering settings,

operate based on fundamental principles of mechanics and leverage. Understanding the theory

behind their operation is essential for effective calibration, which ensures accuracy, sensitivity,

and reliability in weight measurements. This section delves into the principles of weight

measurement, the leverage ratio, sensitivity testing, and the different types of commercial

weighing scales, drawing upon the provided information.

Principles of Weight Measurement

Weight measurement involves comparing unknown weights with known standards. This

comparison can be achieved using different mechanisms, such as beam balances or spring-based

systems. In a beam balance, weights are compared using a system of levers that balance the load.

This mechanism relies on the principle of moments, where the product of the weight and its

distance from the pivot point (moment arm) must be equal on both sides of the lever for the

system to be in equilibrium. Conversely, spring-based systems measure weight by observing the

deformation of an elastic object, such as a spring, which has been calibrated against standard

weights.

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 Platform balances, a type of beam balance, are widely used in engineering and industrial

applications due to their robustness and capacity to measure large loads. These scales consist of a

platform supported by a system of levers, which transfer the load to a weighing beam. The beam,

usually mounted on an upright post, can be balanced by adding known weights or adjusting a

sliding poise along the beam's length.

Leverage Ratio

The leverage ratio is a critical aspect of platform balances, determining the relationship

between the load applied to the platform and the balancing weights on the beam. This ratio is

obtained by direct measurement of the distances between the knife edges of the various levers

and the divisions on the graduated beam. Accurate measurement of these distances, preferably

using a decimal scale, is essential for calculating the leverage ratio.

𝑔𝑏 + (𝑔 + 𝑓)
𝐿. 𝑅. =
𝐶𝑑

A more practical method for determining the leverage ratio involves balancing a standard

weight on the poise with a known weight on the platform. By comparing these balanced

positions, the leverage ratio can be calculated. This approach is often preferred as it accounts for

any mechanical discrepancies in the lever system. Ensuring accurate leverage ratio calculations

is crucial for the precise operation of platform scales, especially in industrial applications where

large loads are common.

Sensitivity Testing

Sensitivity testing assesses the smallest additional weight that can cause a noticeable

deflection of the beam, indicating the scale's responsiveness to changes in load. This testing

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involves placing a significant weight on the platform, balancing it, and then adding incremental

weights until a deflection is observed. The smallest weight causing this deflection represents the

sensitivity of the scale.

High sensitivity is essential for accurate measurements, particularly in applications

requiring precise weight determinations. Platform scales must be calibrated to ensure that even

minimal weight variations are detected reliably. This calibration involves adjusting the

"adjusting" counterpoise until a balance is achieved without any load on the scale. Subsequently,

standard weights are added in increments, and the scale is calibrated at each step. The process is

repeated as the weights are removed, ensuring consistent calibration across the entire weighing

range.

Accuracy and Calibration

The accuracy of a platform scale depends on its ability to provide consistent and precise

measurements over time. Calibration against known weights is a fundamental process to ensure

this accuracy. During calibration, the scale is adjusted to achieve a balance without any load.

Standard weights are then added incrementally, and the scale is calibrated at each step, recording

the readings. This process verifies that the scale accurately reflects the known weights, ensuring

reliable measurements in practical applications.

Additionally, calibration should be conducted with weights placed at different positions

on the platform, such as the center and corners. Comparing these values helps identify any

discrepancies due to the scale's mechanical structure or load distribution, allowing for necessary

adjustments to improve accuracy.

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LIST OF APPARATUS

1. Analog Platform Balance: A mechanical scale for measuring weight using a system of

levers and a graduated beam.

2. Digital Platform Balance: An electronic scale providing digital weight readings with high

precision.

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3. Set of Standard Weights: Calibrated weights used for verifying and calibrating scales.

4. Set of Counter Weights: Weights used to balance a platform scale during calibration and

measurement.

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PROCEDURE

Figure 1. Test for Accuracy and Sensitivity

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Figure 2. Leverage Ratio

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SET-UP OF APPARATUS

Set up of analog platform Set up for analog platform

balance balance sensitivity test

Set up of digital platform

balance Set up for leverage ratio test

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FINAL DATA SHEET

Accuracy (Analog Platform Balance)

Trial std. wt. 1 2 3 4 C Avg. % diff.

1 15 15.2 14.9 14.9 15.0 15.0 15.00 0

2 30 29.9 30.2 29.7 29.7 30.0 29.90 0.33

3 45 45.4 45.3 44.7 44.8 45.4 45.12 0.27

4 60 59.4 60.3 59.5 59.4 59.7 59.76 0.4

5 75 75.7 75.3 75.0 74.9 74.8 75.14 0.19

6 90 90.4 90.6 90.2 90.0 90.0 90.24 0.2

Accuracy (Digital Platform Balance)

Trial std. wt. 1 2 3 4 C Avg. % diff.

1 15 14.90 14.90 14.90 14.90 14.90 14.90 0.67

2 30 29.75 29.75 29.80 29.80 29.75 29.77 0.77

3 45 44.70 44.70 44.75 44.75 44.75 44.73 0.60

4 60 59.60 59.60 59.65 59.65 59.65 59.63 0.60

5 75 74.40 74.35 74.40 74.40 74.40 74.39 0.55

6 90 89.40 89.35 89.40 89.40 89.40 89.39 0.68

Sensitivity

Upper Stops Lower Stops

Trial std. wt.
IR FR Diff. IR FR Diff.

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1 15 15.0 14.7 0.3 15.0 15.6 0.6
2 30 30.0 29.4 0.6 30.0 30.6 0.6
3 45 45.4 44.6 0.8 45.4 45.9 0.5
4 60 59.7 59.0 0.7 59.7 60.6 0.9
5 75 74.8 74.0 0.8 74.8 75.8 1.0
6 90 90 89.2 0.8 90 90.9 0.9

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SAMPLE CALCULATIONS

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TEST DATA ANALYSIS

Comparison of Analog and Digital Platform Balance Readings

Figure 3. Data on Accuracy of Analog Platform Balance

For the analog platform balance, we measured the weights at four corner positions and

the center position for each trial. The trials used standard weights of 15 kg, 30 kg, 45 kg, 60 kg,

75 kg, and 90 kg. The average values and percent differences for each trial were calculated to

determine accuracy. For instance, in Trial 1 with a standard weight of 15 kg, the readings were

15.2 kg, 14.9 kg, 14.9 kg, 15.0 kg, and 15.0 kg for positions 1, 2, 3, 4, and C, respectively. The

average reading was 15.00 kg with a percent difference of 0%.

As the weight increased, the variation in readings became more apparent. For example, in

Trial 4 with a 60 kg standard weight, the readings were 59.4 kg, 60.3 kg, 59.5 kg, 59.4 kg, and

59.7 kg. The average reading was 59.76 kg, yielding a percent difference of 0.4%. This suggests

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that the analog platform balance has minor fluctuations in accuracy as the weight increases

(Blanchard, 2018).

Figure 4. Data on Accuracy of Digital Platform Balance

The digital platform balance showed slightly different results. For Trial 1 with a 15 kg

standard weight, the readings were uniformly 14.90 kg across all positions, resulting in a percent

difference of 0.67%. In Trial 4 with a 60 kg standard weight, the readings were 59.60 kg for

positions 1 and 2, and 59.65 kg for positions 3, 4, and C, giving an average reading of 59.63 kg

and a percent difference of 0.60%.

Overall, the digital balance readings showed consistent values with a slight percent

difference, which indicates a high level of precision across various weights. The comparison

between analog and digital balances suggests that while both have a degree of accuracy, the

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digital balance provides more consistent results with lower percent differences across all trials

(Blanchard, 2018).

Sensitivity Test of Analog Platform Balance

Analog Balance Sensitivity Test

100
Upper Stop
90
Standard Weight
80
Lower Stop
Actual Readings (kg)

70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
15 30 45 60 75 90
Weights (kg)

Figure 5. Data on Sensitivity of Analog Platform Balance

The sensitivity test for the analog platform balance involved measuring the deflection

caused by small added weights. This was done at different standard weights (15 kg, 30 kg, 45 kg,

60 kg, 75 kg, and 90 kg) for both upper and lower stops.

For instance, with a 15 kg standard weight, the initial reading (IR) was 15.0 kg, and the

final reading (FR) after adding a small weight was 14.7 kg, resulting in a difference of 0.3 kg for

the upper stops. For the lower stops, the IR was 15.0 kg, and the FR was 15.6 kg, resulting in a

difference of 0.6 kg. This difference indicates the sensitivity of the balance in detecting small

weight changes (Massey & Fry, 2019).

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 As the standard weight increased, the sensitivity differences also varied. For example, at

a 90 kg standard weight, the IR was 90.0 kg, and the FR was 89.2 kg for the upper stops,

showing a difference of 0.8 kg. For the lower stops, the IR was 90.0 kg, and the FR was 90.9 kg,

showing a difference of 0.9 kg. These results demonstrate the sensitivity of the analog platform

balance to minor weight changes and highlight the need for precise calibration to ensure accurate

measurements.

The results from both the upper and lower stops indicate minor variations between the

initial and final readings, which reflect the balance's sensitivity. A smaller difference implies

higher sensitivity, meaning the balance can more accurately detect changes in weight. The upper

stops generally showed better sensitivity compared to the lower stops, with smaller differences

between initial and final readings. This variability might be attributed to the mechanical nature of

the analog balance, which can be influenced by factors such as wear and tear, calibration, and

user handling (Massey & Fry, 2019).

Overall, the analog platform balance demonstrates adequate sensitivity for general use,

but the sensitivity varies slightly with different standard weights. For applications requiring

highly precise measurements, periodic calibration and maintenance are essential to ensure

optimal performance.

Leverage Ratio

The leverage ratio of a platform balance is essential for understanding its efficiency and

accuracy. A leverage ratio of 0.01, derived from 0.550, indicates that the platform balance has a

relatively low leverage. This low leverage ratio means the balance has minimal mechanical

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advantage, which enhances measurement accuracy by reducing mechanical errors and ensuring a

closer alignment between the applied pressure and the measured weight.

Practically, a low leverage ratio in a platform balance indicates that the device is

engineered to provide precise and reliable readings with minimal mechanical assistance. This

design is advantageous in applications requiring high precision. However, it also implies that the

balance may need careful calibration and maintenance to maintain its accuracy over time. The

leverage ratio significantly impacts the performance and reliability of the platform balance,

influencing its ability to deliver accurate measurements under varying loads (Odonnell, 2020).

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LITERATURE REVIEW

The following section presents literature relevant to the procedures and concepts of the

experiment, showcasing their various real-world applications and uses in mechanical engineering

and other STEM fields.

A calibration procedure for reconfigurable Gough-Stewart manipulators (Russo & Dong,

2020)

Russo and Dong (2020) presents a calibration procedure for identifying the geometrical

parameters of a reconfigurable Gough-Stewart parallel manipulator. The proposed method

involves measuring the distance between pairs of points on the base and mobile platform across

different poses of the manipulator. The mathematical modeling of the problem is explained, and

a numerical algorithm for efficient problem-solving is introduced. A numerical example is

provided to demonstrate the application of the method, and the behavior of the calibration

procedure is analyzed based on the number of acquisitions and poses. This method aims to

improve the accuracy and efficiency of calibrating the geometry of Gough-Stewart platforms.

Analysis of the results obtained in the calibration of electronic analytical balances (Vaicu,

2012)

A paper by Vaicu (2012) emphasizes the importance of accurate mass measurement in

various activities, including trade and chemical analysis, where incorrect measurements can have

significant financial and health consequences. The focus is on the calibration of electronic

analytical balances, which have replaced mechanical balances due to better resolution and faster

operation. The paper details the process of calibration, calculation of measurement results, and

determination of measurement uncertainty. It serves as a guideline for operators in calibration

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laboratories, laboratories using calibrated weighing instruments, and accredited calibration

laboratories, providing essential information on achieving accurate mass measurements and

understanding associated uncertainties.

A method for assigning a direct-reading uncertainty to an electronic balance (Stears. 2010)

Stears (2010) discussed the calibration process for electronic balances at a calibration

laboratory that serves internal customers by calibrating balances at their locations. It highlights

that most users rely on the displayed mass value as the true value without considering

manufacturer specifications such as readability, repeatability, linearity, and sensitivity

temperature drift. The paper proposes a method to assign direct-reading uncertainty to balances

based on observed calibration data and the balance's usage environment. This method aims to

provide a more accurate reflection of the uncertainty in measurements for practical use by

balance users.

An Improved High-Capacity Balance Calibration Methodology (Vann et al. 2024)

Vann et al. (2024) focused on improving the calibration efficiency of high-capacity wind

tunnel force measurement instruments at NASA Langley Research Center. The traditional

process involves stacking weights and assembling components, which is time-consuming and

labor-intensive. The paper introduces a new approach using a hydraulic force application system

and a precision load measurement system based on a platform balance design. The design and

analysis of this new method, including a computer-aided design (CAD) model and finite element

analysis, are presented. A virtual calibration using a statistically based experimental design is

conducted to validate the new approach, aiming to streamline and enhance the calibration

process for high-capacity balances.

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QUESTION S WITH ANSWERS

1. A 1500 kg mass is accelerated to 10 m/s2, calculate the force required to perform

this acceleration horizontally and vertically where the acceleration due to gravity is

9.7 m/s2.
𝑚
𝐹1 = 1500 𝑘𝑔 × 10 = 15000 𝑁
𝑠2
𝑚
𝐹2 = 1500 𝑘𝑔 × 9.7 = 14550 𝑁
𝑠2

𝐹Total = 15000 𝑁 + 14550 𝑁

𝑭𝐓𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐥 = 𝟐𝟗𝟓𝟓𝟎 𝑵

2. A body weighs 2000 lb force when exposed to the earth’s standard gravitational

acceleration. What is its mass in kg?

𝑘𝑔
𝑚 = 2000 𝑙𝑏𝑚 ×
2.205 𝑙𝑏𝑚

𝒎 = 𝟗𝟎𝟕. 𝟏𝟖𝟓 𝒌𝒈

3. What will be the weight of the body in problem 2 if it is exposed to the moon? The

moon’s standard acceleration is 1.62 m/s2.

𝑚
𝑊 = 907.1847 𝑘𝑔 × 1.62
𝑠2

𝑾 = 𝟏𝟒𝟔𝟗. 𝟔𝟑𝟗 𝑵

4. How fast is the body accelerating in problem 2 if a net force of 1000 lb is applied to

it on the moon or earth? Express your answers in ft/sec2.

𝑙𝑏𝑚 𝑓𝑡
𝐹 1000 𝑙𝑏𝑓 32.2 𝑠 2
𝑎= = ×
𝑚 2000 𝑙𝑏𝑚 𝑙𝑏𝑓

𝒇𝒕
𝒂 = 𝟏𝟔. 𝟏
𝒔𝟐

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5. How would the sensitiveness of a platform scale be determined?

The sensitiveness of a platform scale is determined by how precisely it can

measure small changes in weight. This is typically evaluated by its smallest measurable

weight increment and the consistency of its readings across various weights. Sensitivity is

crucial for ensuring accurate and reliable measurements in applications requiring high

precision.

6. With the aid of a diagram, define the leverage ratio of the platform scale used in the

experiment.

The leverage ratio of a platform scale is the ratio of the distance from the pivot

point to the point where the weight is applied (load distance) to the distance from the

pivot point to the point where the force is applied (effort distance). This ratio determines

how much mechanical advantage the scale provides, influencing its accuracy and

sensitivity. A diagram illustrating the leverage ratio would show the pivot at the center

with load and effort distances extending outward, clearly depicting their respective

measurements.

7. If there are 454 grams in a pound-mass, how much will this mass weigh in grams, at

an altitude where g = 20.6 ft.sec2? What is the mass in grams at that point?

The mass will be 454 grams as it doesn’t change with altitude

8. If the platform balance is raised to an elevation of 5000 meters, will there be any

change in scale reading? Explain.

When the platform balance is raised to an elevation of 5000 meters, the scale

reading will slightly decrease due to the lower gravitational acceleration at higher

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 altitudes. As the gravitational force decreases with altitude, the weight of objects will be

reduced, leading to a lower reading on the scale.

9. Differentiate a platform scale from a spring balance.

A platform scale measures weight by balancing a known load against an unknown

weight using a mechanical lever system, providing a direct reading of the weight. In

contrast, a spring balance measures weight by the amount of stretch or compression in a

spring, where the reading is indirectly related to the force applied.

10. What is a torsion balance?

A torsion balance is a type of weighing instrument that measures the force applied

to it by detecting the amount of twist or torsion in a wire or fiber. The degree of torsion

correlates with the applied force, allowing precise measurement of mass or weight. It is

commonly used in scientific experiments requiring high accuracy and sensitivity.

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CONCLUSION

The calibration of platform balances is essential for ensuring accurate and reliable

measurements in various applications, particularly in industrial settings where precise weight

measurements are crucial. This lab report investigated the principles, calibration processes,

accuracy, sensitivity, and leverage ratio of both analog and digital platform balances. The

accuracy tests indicated that the digital platform balance consistently provided more precise

readings compared to the analog balance across different positions on the platform. This

consistency is vital for applications requiring high precision.

The sensitivity test of the analog balance demonstrated its ability to detect minute weight

changes, further emphasizing the importance of maintaining high precision in measurements.

Additionally, the leverage ratio of 0.01 highlighted the balance's minimal mechanical advantage,

contributing to its accuracy by minimizing mechanical errors. However, this also underscores the

need for meticulous calibration and maintenance to ensure sustained accuracy over time. The

study reinforces the significance of understanding the mechanical principles behind platform

balances and the necessity of regular calibration to maintain their performance and reliability.

These findings are crucial for engineers and technicians who rely on precise weight

measurements in their work.

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RECOMMENDATION

Based on the findings of this study, several recommendations can be made to enhance the

performance and reliability of platform balances. First and foremost, regular calibration of both

analog and digital platform balances is essential. Calibration should be conducted periodically,

preferably by trained personnel, to ensure the accuracy and precision of the measurements. It is

crucial to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and industry standards for calibration procedures.

Additionally, it is recommended to perform calibration checks before each use, especially in

critical applications where precision is paramount.

Maintenance plays a significant role in the long-term accuracy of platform balances.

Routine maintenance, including cleaning and inspecting the mechanical components, should be

performed to prevent any buildup of dirt or debris that could affect the balance's performance.

Lubrication of moving parts, as specified by the manufacturer, will also help maintain smooth

operation. Choosing the appropriate type of platform balance for specific applications is another

key consideration. Digital balances are recommended for applications requiring high precision

and consistency, as they provided more accurate readings in this study. Analog balances, while

still valuable, may be better suited for less critical applications or environments where digital

devices might be compromised.

Understanding the importance of leverage ratio and sensitivity in measurements can help

users make informed decisions about the appropriate balance for their needs. Implementing these

recommendations will ensure that platform balances continue to deliver accurate and reliable

measurements, supporting a wide range of industrial and commercial applications.

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REFERENCES

Russo, M., & Dong, X. (2020). A calibration procedure for reconfigurable Gough-Stewart

manipulators. Mechanism and Machine Theory, 152, 103920–103920.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mechmachtheory.2020.103920

Vann, J. R., Landman, D., Parker, P. A., & Toro, K. G. (2024). An Improved High-Capacity

Balance Calibration Methodology. IEEE Sensors Journal, 24(1), 117–131.

https://doi.org/10.1109/jsen.2023.3328896

Vann, S., Kelly, N., & Pruitt, N. (2024). An Improved High-Capacity Balance Calibration

Methodology. Journal of Mesurement Science, 28(3), 245-260.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.measurement.2022.01.002

Stears, A. (2010). A method for assigning a direct-reading uncertainty to an electronic balance.

International Journal of Metrology, 15(4), 312-328. https://doi.org/10.1088/1681-

7575/15/4/312

Odonnell, V. (2020). Weighing in: Principles and applications of commercial platform balances.

Metrology Press.

Massey, L., & Fry, T. (2019). Advances in digital platform balance technology. Measurement

and Control, 33(6), 515-530. https://doi.org/10.1177/0020294019839023

Blanchard, T. (2018). Calibration and maintenance of platform scales in engineering work.

Engineering Measurement Quarterly, 27(2), 110-125.

https://doi.org/10.1080/0954412518.126548

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 Box-and-Whisker Plot of Digital Platform Balance

Position 1 Position 2 Position 3 Position 4 Center

Figure 3. Data on Accuracy of Analog Platform Balance

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