Description
The M5 Series is a heavy-duty marine platform scale for weighing loads from a few hundred kilograms up to 3000 kg where deck space is limited. It is the successor to the WPL M4 and is available with three platform sizes, three capacities and a range of communication options.
A flip-up platform for tight decks
The M5 platform can be raised when it is not in use. That gives two practical benefits: the area underneath can be cleaned properly, and the deck space is available for other work. On vessels where every square metre is shared between catch handling, gear and crew movement, a platform that folds out of the way can be the difference between having a floor scale and not having one.
Compensation for motion, tilt and gravity
The M5 corrects automatically for vessel motion, tilt of the deck and changes in gravity. Each effect alters the force on the load cells in its own way: vertical acceleration adds to or subtracts from gravity, tilt reduces the force measured by the cells, and gravity itself varies with latitude. How motion compensation works explains what compensation achieves, gravity, latitude and calibration explains why a scale calibrated in one port reads differently far to the north or south, and weighing accuracy in rough seas covers what to expect in heavy weather.
Four load cells in AISI 316
The platform rests on four load cells, a construction that gives stable and repeatable results wherever the load is placed. The scale is made of AISI 316 stainless steel with smooth, hygienic surfaces for quick washdown, and it is engineered to withstand daily cleaning and harsh marine conditions. EU hygiene rules require equipment on board to be corrosion-resistant and easy to clean and disinfect (Regulation (EC) No 853/2004, Annex III, Section VIII); see the hygiene and materials hub.
Connectivity and options
A wall mount for the indicator is included. Options include RS232, Ethernet and WiFi communication, USB, Bluetooth LE, a battery, remote displays, relay boards, digital I/O signals, label printers and report programs. The WeightControl IOT module logs every weighing automatically; the EU weighing rules require non-automatic scales used to weigh pallets of fishery products to keep at least an automatic or semi-automatic log (Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1932, Annex I, Part B, point 5). Approval for such use is a matter for national authorities; see the legal metrology hub. For data handling, read weighing data logging.
Typical applications
- Weighing bins, tubs and pallets of product on factory vessels and trawlers.
- Heavy weighing on aquaculture and well boats where space is limited.
- Stores, gear and waste weighing on offshore vessels.
Calibration certificate
Every M5 scale can be supplied with an EURAMET cg-18 calibration certificate as an option. The certificate records the repeatability, eccentricity, errors of indication and measurement uncertainty of the scale, which quality systems and audits often ask for. Calibration is not the same as legal verification; EURAMET cg-18 calibration explained sets out the difference.
Choosing the right configuration
All three capacities (600, 1500 and 3000 kg) are available on all three platforms (1000×1000, 1200×1200 and 1500×1500 mm), and higher capacities are available on request. Size the platform to the footprint of your largest container or pallet, and the capacity to the heaviest gross load including tare. The platform size guide, capacity and readability explained and installing marine scales help with the choice. Compare with the M6 Series, then request a quote.