For any type of manufacturing, processing, packaging or production type of business, finding ways to save on the cost or repairs and replacement parts is always a good thing. Many companies strive to find cost-effective ways to complete repairs, and some of these are terrific ways to save a significant amount of money on repairs over a year.
However, when it comes to replacing industrial scale components, choosing a generic or cheap option in load cells and other components can actually end up costing a company. The top load cell manufacturers offer the best products, and the cheaper generic and aftermarket types of parts simply aren’t designed and built with the same attention to detail and quality control.
The Accuracy Factor
Not all load cell manufacturers are focused on the long-term accuracy and durability of the load cells they produce. While they will be calibrated and accurate when installed, with low-quality components and without careful design features to minimize wear and tear on the components, these load cells will not remain accurate for extended periods of time.
With inaccurate measurements, a business can end up spending significant amounts in overuse of materials, in dealing with incorrect production issues in batching and blending operations, and in a decrease in consumer satisfaction when packaging or production standards are inconsistent.
The Life Cycle Factor
With load cells from top manufacturers, there is both a warranty as well as a list of standards that the load cells meets or exceeds. This not only provides confidence in the accuracy and the durability of the load cell, but it also demonstrates a commitment to quality that translates into a superior life cycle.
With a longer life cycle with limited downtime, the cost of the purchase is offset. Cheap load cells result in the need for more frequent replacement, increased risk of downtime and increased costs of repairs.
The Compatibility Factor
Yet another consideration in selecting reputable and recognized load cell manufacturers is the ability of the load cell to match with your current scale system and software. With OEM types of equipment this will never be a concern as the load cell is specifically designed for that particular scale system.
The small amount of initial cost saved in choosing a generic or aftermarket type of load cell is quickly wiped out by the costs associated with inaccurate measurements, increased repairs and downtime, and shorter life cycle. Comparing these factors proves that an OEM option is actually more cost effective, and it is also the best option.
