The balance is a balances, also called Dynamomètre when it is mechanical; it is thus an apparatus which measures forces: Weight or Mass. The traditional or mechanical balance consists of a Ressort which one measures lengthening thanks to a small rule moving on a graduated scale.

The electronic balance is a device which allows the weighing by transforming a force into electricity. It consists of four resistances including one Strain gauge laid out to form a Wheatstone bridge. One feeds the bridge by an electric current; when the balance is subjected to no effort, the bridge is with balance. On the other hand, when a force is applied to him, the electrical resistance of a strain gauge is modified by the deformation. This resistance is measured then by balancing of the bridge, and one can thus determine the effort undergone by the balance.

Even if the majority of the balances are electronic devices, one finds other kinds of them, in particular the hydraulic balances. Those are used when the use of the electronic balances poses problem. For example, a hydraulic balance will not be sensitive to very high tensions, due to the Foudre at the time of a Orage in particular. One will thus use it more readily outside the buildings.

Inter alia applications, one can quote the weighing of silo S or Trémie S, the weighing of Camion S and Wagon S within the framework of road or railway rockers, or the material weighing convoyed by a Conveying belt.