COLD WEATHER AND DIGITAL SCALES

TEXVET · Jan 15, 2015

I decided to reload some 44 Rem Mag last night. I use a RCBS digital scale to weight my loads. About halfway through the process of weighing my loads, I began to wonder what effect the 38 degree temperature in my garage was having on my digital scales sensitivity. The scale stays in the garage, so it acclimated to the weather. I completed the reloading process using the typical load weights I normally use.
I was just wondering if anyone had done any research into the effects of cold temperatures on digital scale accuracy. I figure the variance might be a tenth either way.

elpac3 · Jan 15, 2015

Physics tells us volume will change with temperature but mass will not.

That said, if in doubt, use a check weight to verify the accuracy of your scale.

crsides · Jan 15, 2015

Back in the early 90's we were weighing pinewood derby cars (the little ones) that had to be 5.0 oz or under. When the sunshine coming thru the window hit the scales, they started weighing differently, as cars previously weighed and subsequently had material removed, were weighing more when re-checked.

Charlie

3five7 · Jan 15, 2015

Check weights are your friend. I have found that some digital scales will change at different temperatures.

.41 cal · Jan 15, 2015

As long as the temp was consistent there should not be a problem.
My first set of RCBS digital scales would drift as temperature changed so I would have to get the room to temp (turn on lights and such) prior to using and to keep stable readings.

.41 cal

John R · Jan 15, 2015

I have a Dillon digital scale, I find if I turn it on about 5 minutes ahead of using it stabilizes it and things work great and stay accurate.

Twoboxer · Jan 15, 2015

I have an A&D FX120i, a quality mag force restoration scale. The manual's specs say:

Operating environment: 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F), 85%RH or less (No condensation)

Sensitivity drift: (10°C-30°C/50°F-86°F ) ±2 ppm/°C

Of course, your scale may differ.

Nemo288 · Jan 15, 2015

While not in the garage, my setup is in the basement where it gets colder in the winter (about 60F).
I always let the scale (GemPro) warm up for at least an hour before use.
That's pretty much in line with what the instructions recommend.
After that I calibrate and then check with the small check weights closest to whatever load I am planning.
So far the check weights have been well within .1 gr so I am happy.

===
Nemo

chief38 · Jan 21, 2015

Time for a Garage Heater............

COLD WEATHER AND DIGITAL SCALES

TEXVET

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elpac3

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crsides

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3five7

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.41 cal

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John R

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Twoboxer

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Nemo288

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chief38

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