There are a number of different systems for connecting rod balancing on the market today. Some are designed for use in custom car shops while others are designed for high volume use as well as custom applications.
Many of these systems are relatively bulky and challenging to use. Others are very streamlined and designed for user-friendly operation. Finding the right match between cost and functions with the size and performance required can be a challenge.
Ideally, start the process by noting the specific requirements for the connecting rod balancing system. Be specific to include all aspects of the scale system from how the rod needs to be weighed as well as the throughput required for the system. Additionally, think of the technology basics and advanced features which allow for increased precision in weighing both in-line and for stand-alone applications.
Weighing Speed
Depending on the specific application, and particularly for in-process and on-line use, it will be critical to find a connecting rod scale with the ability to weight at the speed of the line.
Top systems will be able to handle up to 100 weight samples per second, which means there is no bottleneck at the scale when used in-process. For stand-alone scales used for quality control and testing, the speed of weighing samples is less of an issue, but still important to consider.
Weighing Method
The weighing method used with the connecting rod balancing system will be a central consideration. For accuracy and speed in the process, a scale which weighs both the pin and crank end of the rod at the same time is highly effective.
Look for systems where the display indicates the weight of both ends simultaneously as compared to the ideal balance. This provides a quick visual read on the balance of the connecting rod, with the scale automatically zeroing before the next sample is weighed.
