West Coast Groundfish Observer Program Manual, Part2 - NOAA

APPENDIX T
Appendix T: Chattilon Flatbed Scale Care and Maintenance
Although useful, the Chattilon scale will only perform if you properly lubricate and maintain it.
Before You Use the Scale
Prior to taking the scale from training, you should familiarize yourself with how to use it.
Additionally, you will need to ensure the scale is properly lubricated and tested. Record the serial
number and the test results in your logbook.
Lubricating the Scale.
The bars on the bottom of the scale form an “X” shape. The platform floats on the tips of this
“X,” and there is a flex point where the bars cross. Each of these five points must be liberally
lubricated. Generally, the flex points will be lubricated with a thick grease prior to issue.
However, if this grease washes off during your deployment, ask the boat’s engineer for thick
engine grease to lubricate these points. The two bars on the front of the scale, on which the
weights slide, also need to be lubricated. You may use a
WD-40 type oil, or the food grade lubricant oil issued as part of your normal observer gear.
Check all lubrication points often. The weight bars should be oiled daily, and the points on
the “X” bars beneath the platform need to be re-greased at least every few days.
Using the Scale
Whenever you are not using the scale, lock the platform in place using the black lever on the
right side of the scale. Turn the lever forward to unlock the platform, and back to re-lock the
platform.
Checking the Scale for Accuracy and Recalibrating.
Weigh an object on the platform scale prior to using it at sea. Record the weight of this object,
and use it periodically to check your scale. If the scale no longer reads the correct weight, you
will need to recalibrate the scale. The small, rectangular bar on the upper left of the weight bar
has a screw head on the far left hand side, with a nut on the other end. Inside this rectangular
bar is a small weight that will move when you turn the screw head. The nut on the other end will
also move; this is normal. Put an object of a known weight on the scale and place the weights
on the weight bar to show the known weight. If the scale is unbalanced where the known weight
appears too light, turn the screw to the left until the scale balances on the correct weight. If the
scale is unbalanced where the known weight appears too heavy, turn the screw to the right until
the scale balances on the correct weight.
Returning the Scale
Prior to bringing the scale back to NMFS, rinse it with fresh water and let it dry. Remove any
rust on the five pivot points on the bottom of the scale, and on the sliding weight bars.
Lubricate the scale and transport it to NMFS with the platform in the locked position. Test the
scale and record the results in your logbook. If the scale does not test out within the approved
NMFS accuracy range, please alert your debriefer when you return for your final debriefing.
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