A&D HW Series Precision Bench Scale

Overview

The A&D HW Series Precision Bench Scale is an industrial-grade weighing instrument engineered for high-reliability applications in quality control laboratories, production lines, logistics hubs, and pharmaceutical manufacturing environments. Designed and manufactured in Japan, the HW Series employs electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) load cell technology — a hallmark of A&D’s metrological heritage — ensuring long-term stability, minimal drift, and high reproducibility across temperature fluctuations and mechanical stress. Unlike strain-gauge-based platforms, EMFC architecture delivers superior linearity (< ±0.005% FS), exceptional repeatability (≤ ±0.5e), and immunity to thermal zero shift — critical for regulated operations requiring traceable calibration and audit-ready performance. The series comprises two display variants: the HW-KGL models feature backlit LCD displays optimized for ambient-light flexibility and low-power operation, while the HW-KGV models integrate high-brightness fluorescent displays for visibility in dim or high-glare industrial settings. All units comply with international metrological standards including OIML R76-1 (Class III) and are type-approved for legal-for-trade use in multiple jurisdictions.

Key Features

• Robust stainless-steel or reinforced polymer housing rated to IP65 — fully protected against dust ingress and low-pressure water jets from any direction, enabling safe deployment in wet processing zones, cleanrooms, and food-handling areas.
• Dual-function indicator interface supporting both dynamic process control (e.g., checkweighing, filling, batching) and static laboratory-grade mass measurement.
• Configurable high/low limit alarms with visual (LED) and audible (buzzer) feedback — programmable per application via front-panel keys or optional RS-232/USB host communication.
• Integrated tare, preset counting, auto-zero tracking, and unit conversion (g, kg, lb, oz, ct) — all accessible without software dependency.
• Modular design with standardized mounting holes and optional accessories including printer interfaces (RS-232), analog output modules (0–10 V / 4–20 mA), and external relay kits for PLC integration.
• Factory-calibrated with NIST-traceable documentation; supports user calibration using certified test weights (M1 or F1 class) in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HW Series accommodates a broad range of sample types — from small vials and reagent bottles to large containers, palletized goods, and irregularly shaped components — thanks to its wide pan dimension options (250 × 250 mm up to 390 × 530 mm) and reinforced load-bearing structure. Its overload protection (150% FS) and mechanical shock resistance (up to 10 g) ensure operational continuity under routine handling stress. Regulatory alignment includes compliance with ISO 9001:2015 quality management systems, adherence to FDA 21 CFR Part 11 data integrity principles when paired with A&D’s optional WinCT software, and suitability for GLP/GMP environments where electronic records require audit trails, electronic signatures, and secure user access control. All models undergo factory verification per JIS B 7720-1 and meet CE marking requirements under the EU Measuring Instruments Directive (MID 2014/32/EU).

Software & Data Management

While fully functional as a standalone instrument, the HW Series integrates seamlessly with A&D’s WinCT data acquisition suite — a Windows-based application supporting real-time weight logging, statistical process control (SPC) charting (X-bar/R, Cp/Cpk), export to CSV/Excel, and automated report generation. When configured with optional communication modules, the scale transmits timestamped weight data with operator ID, batch number, and pass/fail status — satisfying ALCOA+ (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available) data governance expectations. Firmware updates are performed via USB memory stick, ensuring version traceability and minimizing downtime during regulatory revalidation cycles.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical formulation: Precise ingredient dispensing and final product checkweighing in tablet/capsule packaging lines.
• Chemical manufacturing: Batch blending verification and raw material receipt inspection under ISO 80000-1 mass metrology protocols.
• Food & beverage: In-line portion control, yield monitoring, and HACCP-critical weight validation at critical control points (CCPs).
• Electronics assembly: Component counting, PCB tray loading verification, and ESD-safe weighing in Class 1000 cleanrooms.
• Logistics & warehousing: Parcel consolidation, pallet load verification, and returnable asset tracking with integrated barcode scanning (via optional USB HID support).

FAQ

What calibration standards are supported for field verification?
The HW Series accepts standard M1- and F1-class test weights per ISO 9001 Annex A.3 and ASTM E74 procedures; internal calibration routines are accessible via password-protected menu navigation.
Is the scale compatible with industrial automation systems?
Yes — RS-232, USB virtual COM, and optional 4–20 mA analog outputs enable direct integration with SCADA, MES, and PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens S7, Rockwell ControlLogix). Modbus RTU protocol support is available via firmware update.
How does the IP65 rating impact installation flexibility?
IP65 certification permits installation in washdown zones, refrigerated storage areas, and outdoor canopies — provided ambient temperature remains within –10 °C to +40 °C and relative humidity stays below 90% non-condensing.
Can the HW Series be used for legal-for-trade transactions?
All HW-KGL and HW-KGV models carry OIML R76-1 Class III approval and national type evaluation certificates (e.g., NTEP Certificate of Conformance in the U.S., MID approval in EU member states), subject to local verification and stamping by authorized metrology institutes.
What is the recommended recalibration interval under GxP conditions?
Per USP <1058> and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Clause 6.5, initial verification is required at installation; subsequent intervals depend on usage frequency, environmental risk, and historical performance — typically every 3–6 months in high-throughput GMP environments.