Weighing in the Danger Zone: ATEX Scales for Propulsion and R&D

Working in propulsion, aerospace and space R&D means dealing with materials that don’t leave much room for error. Fuels, oxidisers and pressurised systems all need to be handled with care, and that includes how they’re weighed. In these environments, it’s not just about getting an accurate reading. The equipment itself has to be safe to use in potentially explosive atmospheres.

At scalesandbalances.co.uk, part of the Brash Group, we configure, support and supply weighing systems designed for exactly these conditions. Whether it’s component measurement, fuel handling or testing, the focus is always the same: reliable data without compromising safety.

Supporting the UK’s Growing Space Sector (And More!)

The UK space industry has been building momentum, particularly around launch capabilities and propulsion development. We’ve been involved in supporting some of these projects, including supplying weighing equipment for a UK-based rocket propulsion programme where we selected and specified Minebea Intec ATEX equipment.

In practice, this kind of work involves more than just putting something on a scale. Engineers might be calculating dry mass, checking propellant loads or monitoring changes during testing. Each of those steps depends on consistent, dependable measurements, often in environments where standard equipment simply isn’t suitable.

Why Minebea Intec Is Often the Go-To

For hazardous area weighing, we regularly work with Minebea Intec among others. These systems are widely used in industries where both precision and safety are critical.

• Designed for hazardous environments
  Their ATEX-certified systems are built to limit electrical energy, reducing the risk of ignition in explosive atmospheres.
• Accurate where it matters
  Even in demanding test environments, you still need precise measurements, especially when dealing with fuel mass or component tolerances.
• Straightforward data integration
  Data can be transferred safely out of hazardous zones, allowing engineers to monitor results in real time from a control room.

 Ongoing Support and Compliance

Supplying the equipment is only part of the job. ATEX systems need to be maintained correctly to stay compliant and safe to use.

• Calibration and servicing
  Our engineers are trained to work with hazardous area equipment, both on-site and in-house, helping you stay aligned with regulations like DSEAR.
• Guidance on ATEX zones
  Choosing the right zone rating is key, and we can help assess what’s needed based on your environment and process.
• UK-wide coverage
  With support across the country, we can work alongside teams involved in propulsion, testing and wider R&D.

Keeping It Simple: Safety and Accuracy Go Hand in Hand

In these environments, accuracy and safety aren’t separate considerations. The right equipment supports both. With the correct setup and ongoing support, weighing becomes one less thing to worry about during critical stages of development and testing.

Explore Related Solutions

• ATEX-Certified Scales: Intrinsically safe equipment designed for fuel handling and chemical environments.

• Aerospace, Motorsport, and Drone Weighing: Precision balances and force measurement tools for advanced R&D.

• RAVAS Mobile Weighing: Built-in weighing for logistics, including pallet truck and forklift solutions.