Overhead Weighing Systems for Lifting, Rigging, and Load Monitoring
Overhead weighing is the process of measuring loads while they are suspended during lifting or rigging operations. It is commonly used in industrial environments where traditional floor scales are impractical or where real-time load monitoring is critical for safety and efficiency.
American Scale Supply provides a full range of overhead weighing systems, including crane scales for direct weight measurement and digital dynamometers for tension and load monitoring. These solutions are designed for applications such as crane lifting, rigging, structural installation, load testing, and material handling across a wide range of industries.
Whether you need to determine the exact weight of a suspended load or monitor lifting forces to ensure safe operation, our overhead weighing equipment delivers reliable performance in demanding environments. Use the options below to select the solution that best fits your application.
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Crane Scales vs. Dynamometers: What’s the Difference?
While crane scales and dynamometers are both used for overhead weighing, they serve different purposes depending on how the load is being measured.
Crane scales are designed to measure the total weight of a suspended load. They are commonly used when an operator needs to know how much a load weighs while lifting with a crane, hoist, or overhead lifting device.
Dynamometers measure tension or force rather than true weight. They are used when monitoring lifting forces, rigging tension, or load distribution is critical, such as during structural lifts, engineered rigging, or safety verification.
If your goal is to determine the weight of a load, a crane scale is typically the correct choice. If you need to monitor lifting forces or tension during a lift, a dynamometer is usually the better solution.
Common Overhead Weighing Applications
Overhead weighing equipment is used across many industries where suspended load measurement is required for safety, compliance, or operational efficiency.
Typical applications include:
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Crane weighing in scrap, recycling, steel, and material handling
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Overhead load measurement during shipping and logistics operations
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Rigging and lifting force monitoring for construction and infrastructure projects
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Cable and line tension measurement during installation or maintenance
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Load testing and proof testing of lifting equipment
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Structural lifts where controlled force measurement is required
Both crane scales and dynamometers are designed to perform reliably in demanding industrial environments, including outdoor and job-site conditions.
Choosing the Right Overhead Weighing Equipment
Selecting the correct overhead weighing solution depends on several factors, including load capacity, resolution requirements, environmental conditions, and how the measurement will be used.
Key considerations include:
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Whether you need weight measurement or tension measurement
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Maximum load capacity and safety margin
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Required resolution and accuracy
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Environmental exposure such as moisture, dust, or temperature extremes
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Accessories such as shackles, rigging hardware, or remote displays
If you are unsure which solution is right for your application, our team can help evaluate your requirements and recommend the appropriate equipment.
Why Buy Overhead Weighing Equipment from American Scale Supply
American Scale Supply specializes in industrial weighing and force measurement solutions. We work directly with trusted manufacturers to provide reliable overhead weighing equipment backed by knowledgeable application support.
When you purchase from American Scale Supply, you benefit from:
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Application-specific guidance to ensure proper product selection
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Access to a wide range of crane scales and digital dynamometers
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Assistance with compatible shackles and lifting hardware
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Support for industrial, construction, rigging, and lifting environments
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Responsive customer service before and after the sale
Our goal is to help you select equipment that improves safety, accuracy, and efficiency in your lifting operations.
Need Help Selecting the Right Solution?
If you are unsure whether a crane scale or dynamometer is best for your application, or if you need assistance with capacity sizing or accessories, contact American Scale Supply for expert support.
We’re happy to help you find the right overhead weighing solution for your operation.
