In today's agriculture, it's easier to imagine running a successful operation with modern machinery and weighing equipment. Farmers would spend far too much time harvesting, planting, fertilising, and more. And these activities can quickly become overwhelming when done manually or by traditional means.
Using specialised farm machinery and weighing systems offer many advantages. And if you're looking for a reliable and efficient way to measure your feed ingredients, look no further than feed mix bins and hopper scales. While both tools are commonly used in the agricultural industry, some key differences can impact your operation's productivity and profitability.
9 Differences Between Feed Mix Bin and Hopper Scales
1. Capacity
Feed mix bins handle higher volumes than hopper scales, with some models holding up to three tons of feed. This makes them ideal for large-scale operations and farms that store and dispense large feed over an extended period. Feed bins also feature a more stable platform, making them less prone to shifting and tipping over.
2. Weight Accuracy
Hopper scales provide higher accuracy and precision than feed mix bins. For example, the advanced models can measure weight to the tenth of a pound or gram.
This level of accuracy is significant for operations requiring precise measurements when weighing out animal feed. Hopper scales also feature a more sophisticated control system, which you can program with various weight and property settings.
3. Dispensing Method
Feed mix bins dispense animal food and grains by gravity, so the feed drops into a chute or trough at the bottom of the container.
On the other hand, hopper scales feature a conveyor belt that slowly dispenses feed at a more controlled and consistent rate. This makes them ideal for operations that require precise measurements of feed ingredients.
4. Refilling Method
You should empty feed mix bins entirely before refilling them, as their design does not allow for multiple fillings. This can be time-consuming and may limit the amount of feed stored in a given time frame.
In contrast, hopper scales allow multiple fillings until they reach capacity. This makes them ideal for operations that require a steady feed supply over time.
5. Automation
Feed mix bins are typically manual devices, so they are unsuitable for automated operations. Hopper scales, however, can be connected to computerised systems, allowing them to dispense feed at specific times or in particular amounts. This makes them perfect for large-scale operations that need automated processes.
6. Ease of Use
Feed mix bins are typically easy to use because all you have to do is open the lid and fill it with feed. Hopper scales, however, require additional steps that involve calibrating the device and programming its settings before using them.
7. Maintenance
Feed mix bins require minimal maintenance, as most models must be cleaned regularly and checked for signs of wear and tear. Hopper scales, however, require a bit more attention, as their complex components must be monitored for accuracy and calibrated regularly.
8. Installation of Weighing System
Hopper scales typically use a load cell-based weighing system integrated into the platform. This allows accurate measurement of the hopper and its contents.
On the other hand, feed mix bins use various weighing systems, depending on their design and manufacturer. Some feed mix bins use load cells, similar to hopper scales. However, other weighing systems, such as strain gauges or air pressure sensors, can be used.
9. Design
Feed mix bins are designed to feed out of one side only, while hopper scales feature four sides that can dispense or receive material at once. This makes feed mix bins ideal for larger farms or operations with multiple feeding operations going on at the same time. Hopper scales are best suited for smaller operations that need precise control over how much feed they dispense.
Hopper scales and feed mix bins are helpful tools for measuring feed ingredients. And choosing the right weighing system is crucial to your operation's success. Ultimately, it's essential to consider your specific needs and requirements when selecting between a hopper scale and a feed mix bin.
To ensure that you get the best agriculture weighing kits for your farm feeding needs, contact Meltrons Australia today!