KERN FKB – High-Resolution Precision Balances for Industrial Applications

Professional weighing technology for industry, quality control and technical laboratories

The KERN FKB high-resolution precision balances combine advanced weighing performance, a generously sized stainless steel weighing platform and versatile functions for professional industrial applications.

Designed for demanding weighing tasks, the FKB series provides a practical solution for industrial quality assurance, manufacturing, component inspection, materials testing and technical laboratories.

Whether determining the weight of manufactured components, checking production tolerances, counting small parts or comparing material samples, KERN FKB offers an effective combination of fine readability, convenient operation and flexible weighing capabilities.

Unlike basic weighing instruments designed primarily for general weight determination, the FKB series is particularly interesting for users who need to detect relatively small weight differences while maintaining sufficient weighing capacity for industrial applications.

Different models offer different combinations of weighing capacity and readability, allowing businesses to select the most suitable balance for their individual requirements.

The generously sized 340 × 240 mm stainless steel weighing platform provides ample space for a wide range of components, containers and technical samples.

In addition, compatible optional interface adapters enable digital communication with computers and other suitable systems, supporting the documentation and further processing of weighing results.

KERN FKB – High-resolution precision weighing for industrial quality control, manufacturing and technical applications.

Key advantages of KERN FKB precision balances

• High-resolution weighing: Fine weight increments for demanding industrial applications.

• Multiple weighing capacities: Different models for different weighing requirements.

• Large stainless steel weighing platform: Generous space for components, containers and technical samples.

• Professional weighing performance: Suitable for industrial inspection and quality control.

• Parts counting: Efficient quantity determination based on average piece weight.

• Checkweighing: Verification of weights against predefined tolerance limits.

• Percentage weighing: Comparison of measured weights with a reference value.

• PRE-TARE function: Convenient consideration of known container or packaging weights.

• Easy-to-read display: Clear presentation of weighing results.

• Digital connectivity: Flexible data transfer using suitable optional interface adapters.

• Versatile applications: Ideal for manufacturing, quality assurance, materials inspection and technical laboratories.

• KERN weighing technology: Professional weighing solutions for commercial and industrial environments.

High-resolution weighing – When small weight differences matter

Fine readability for demanding weighing tasks

One of the defining characteristics of the KERN FKB series is its high resolution.

In industrial environments, determining the approximate weight of a component is often not sufficient.

Many inspection procedures require the ability to identify relatively small differences between individual parts, samples or production batches.

The KERN FKB series addresses these requirements through different combinations of weighing capacity and readability.

Depending on the model, relatively fine weight increments are available even at higher weighing capacities.

This makes the series particularly attractive for applications that require both sufficient load capacity and detailed weight indication.

Readability, resolution and accuracy – Understanding the difference

When selecting a professional precision balance, it is important to distinguish between readability, resolution and weighing accuracy.

Readability describes the smallest weight increment displayed by the balance.

Resolution refers to the number of display increments available across the weighing range.

Accuracy concerns how closely a measurement result corresponds to an appropriate reference value.

These characteristics are related, but they are not interchangeable.

A high-resolution display does not automatically guarantee an equally high level of absolute measurement accuracy.

For demanding industrial applications, users should therefore consider additional technical specifications, including repeatability, linearity and the conditions under which measurements are performed.

Advantages for industrial quality assurance

High-resolution weighing is especially useful when relatively small weight differences provide information about a component or manufacturing process.

Typical applications include:

• Inspection of precision components.

• Comparison of material samples.

• Verification of production tolerances.

• Monitoring of filling and dosing operations.

• Weight inspection of mechanical assemblies.

• Technical testing and development procedures.

• Comparison of manufactured parts.

The appropriate FKB model should always be selected according to the required weighing capacity, readability and measurement performance.

Large stainless steel weighing platform – More flexibility for industrial components

Generous weighing area for different types of samples

The KERN FKB series features a spacious stainless steel weighing platform measuring 340 × 240 mm.

This provides a practical advantage when weighing larger components, containers or technical samples.

Compared with compact precision balances, the larger platform offers more room for positioning objects with different shapes and dimensions.

This makes the FKB series suitable for a broad range of industrial weighing applications.

Practical stainless steel surface

Stainless steel provides a durable, smooth weighing surface that is convenient to clean under normal operating conditions.

This is particularly useful in environments where different materials and components are weighed throughout the working day.

Typical weighing objects include:

• Mechanical components.

• Metal parts.

• Plastic components.

• Packaging units.

• Material samples.

• Containers and trays.

• Small mechanical assemblies.

• Technical test specimens.

Please note: A stainless steel weighing platform does not mean that the entire balance is waterproof or suitable for wet cleaning. The manufacturer's cleaning and environmental instructions must be observed.

Precision parts counting – Efficient quantity determination

Determine quantities by weight

The integrated parts counting function enables users to determine the number of identical or sufficiently uniform items from their total weight.

The balance first establishes an average piece weight using a reference quantity.

It then calculates the number of items based on the total measured weight.

This method is particularly useful when large quantities of small components need to be counted.

Typical parts counting applications

• Screws and nuts.

• Washers.

• Plastic components.

• Electronic parts.

• Mechanical fasteners.

• Small metal components.

• Standardised production parts.

• Assembly components.

Reduce manual counting effort

Counting large quantities of small items manually can be time-consuming and prone to mistakes.

The parts counting function supports a more efficient workflow.

It is particularly useful for:

• Inventory checks.

• Production preparation.

• Assembly operations.

• Order picking.

• Stock management.

• Quantity verification.

The reliability of parts counting depends on factors such as piece weight consistency, reference quantity and the readability of the selected balance.

Checkweighing – Verify weights against predefined limits

Efficient tolerance control

In industrial manufacturing, products and components often need to remain within defined weight limits.

The KERN FKB checkweighing function supports this type of inspection.

Users can establish upper and lower tolerance limits for a weighing operation.

The balance then helps determine whether the measured weight falls within the specified range.

Depending on the configuration, visual and audible signals support the evaluation of results.

Applications in manufacturing and quality control

Checkweighing is particularly useful for:

• Inspection of manufactured components.

• Verification of packaging weights.

• Control of material quantities.

• Weight inspection of assemblies.

• Comparison with specified target weights.

• Repetitive quality checks.

• Production process monitoring.

Faster decisions during inspection

Immediate feedback helps operators identify whether a product meets the defined weight requirements.

This can simplify repetitive inspection procedures and reduce the need for manual comparison with reference values.

Checkweighing is therefore a valuable function for production departments and quality assurance teams.

Percentage weighing – Compare weights with reference values

Evaluate relative weight differences

Percentage weighing allows a measured weight to be expressed as a percentage of a defined reference weight.

Instead of evaluating only the absolute weight, users can assess the relationship between a sample and its reference.

This function is useful whenever relative differences are more important than the individual weight value.

Typical applications

• Comparison of material samples.

• Verification of mixing ratios.

• Evaluation of weight changes.

• Comparison of manufactured components.

• Materials development.

• Technical inspection procedures.

• Laboratory testing.

Percentage weighing provides an additional evaluation method for professional weighing applications.

PRE-TARE – Convenient determination of net weight

Account for known container weights

Industrial materials are frequently weighed in containers, trays or packaging.

The PRE-TARE function allows a known tare weight to be taken into account.

This enables the balance to determine the net weight of the material without requiring the empty container to be weighed separately every time.

Benefits for repetitive weighing procedures

PRE-TARE is especially useful when the same type of container is used repeatedly.

Typical applications include:

• Weighing materials in containers.

• Checking packaged products.

• Preparing manufacturing materials.

• Repetitive weighing operations.

• Determining net quantities.

• Production batch preparation.

The function can simplify daily weighing procedures and support more efficient workflows.

Digital data connectivity – Integrate weighing results into business processes

From weight indication to digital documentation

In modern manufacturing environments, determining a weight is often only one part of a larger process.

Measurement results may need to be recorded, evaluated or transferred to other systems.

The KERN FKB series offers flexible connectivity options for these requirements.

Using compatible interface adapters, suitable models can be equipped with different communication interfaces.

Optional interfaces for different applications

Depending on the instrument configuration and available accessories, possible connections include:

• USB

• RS-232

• Ethernet

• Wi-Fi

• Bluetooth

These interfaces are not necessarily integrated into the standard instrument configuration. Suitable interface adapters may need to be purchased separately.

The available connection options depend on the specific model and compatible accessories.

Benefits of digital weighing data

Digital connectivity can support:

• Transferring weighing results to a computer.

• Recording quality control measurements.

• Documenting inspection procedures.

• Processing weight values in compatible software.

• Integrating weighing into existing workflows.

• Supporting traceability and quality documentation.

The functions available depend on the interface, software and system configuration.

KERN Communication Protocol (KCP)

The KERN Communication Protocol (KCP) supports communication between compatible KERN balances and external systems.

For industrial users, the practical benefit is the ability to incorporate weighing results into digital processes.

Rather than focusing on complex technical terminology, the essential advantage is straightforward:

Weight measurements can be transferred digitally and made available for further processing.

The specific implementation depends on the connected hardware and software.

Industrial applications of KERN FKB precision balances

Industrial quality control

In manufacturing, component weights are often compared with predefined specifications.

The KERN FKB series supports these procedures through high-resolution weighing and practical inspection functions.

Typical applications include:

• Component weight verification.

• Inspection of manufacturing tolerances.

• Comparison of material samples.

• Weight control of assemblies.

• Repetitive inspection procedures.

• Documentation of weighing results.

Manufacturing and production

Production departments use weighing instruments for a wide variety of tasks.

These include material preparation, component inspection, quantity determination and weight verification.

The KERN FKB combines a generous weighing area with fine readability and versatile weighing functions.

This makes it suitable for numerous professional weighing operations.

Technical laboratories

Not every laboratory application requires an analytical balance with a draft shield.

Technical laboratories frequently work with larger samples, components and containers.

The KERN FKB can be an attractive option when a spacious weighing platform and fine weight indication are required.

Typical applications include:

• Materials testing.

• Technical development.

• Sample comparison.

• Component weight inspection.

• Preparation of experimental procedures.

• Recording of weight values.

Research and development

Engineering departments frequently use weight measurements to evaluate new products and materials.

The KERN FKB supports the determination and comparison of weights for different test objects.

Its weighing functions and optional digital connectivity can help organise measurement results for further evaluation.

Warehousing and inventory management

High-resolution balances can also be valuable in materials management.

The parts counting function is particularly useful for determining quantities of small, uniform components.

Possible applications include:

• Inventory control.

• Order picking.

• Preparation of production orders.

• Verification of delivered quantities.

• Parts counting.

• Material allocation.

The selected balance must have sufficient capacity for the total load.

Technical characteristics of the KERN FKB series

Important: Weighing capacities, readability, measurement deviations and additional technical specifications vary between KERN FKB models. The specifications of the individual product reference should always be consulted.

KERN FKB weighing capacities and readability options

Selecting the right combination of capacity and resolution

The KERN FKB series includes different model variants.

These differ primarily in maximum weighing capacity and readability.

When selecting a precision balance, maximum capacity should not be the only consideration.

It is equally important to determine how small the weight differences are that must be detected.

Fine readability for detailed inspections

For applications involving relatively small weight differences, a model with finer readability may be preferable.

However, its maximum weighing capacity must still be sufficient for the intended samples.

Higher capacities for larger components

When weighing heavier objects, a higher weighing capacity may be the priority.

The selected KERN FKB model should accommodate the maximum expected load, including containers and additional fixtures.

Balance capacity and readability

A higher maximum capacity is not automatically the better choice.

For applications requiring fine weight differentiation, the relationship between capacity and readability is particularly important.

The ideal precision balance provides the appropriate combination of weighing capacity, readability and measurement performance for the intended application.

External adjustment – Maintaining reliable weighing performance

Why adjustment matters

Professional weighing instruments must deliver reliable results under their actual operating conditions.

Adjustment is the process of adapting the balance's indication to suitable reference values.

The KERN FKB series uses external adjustment with an appropriate adjustment weight.

When should a balance be adjusted?

Verification or adjustment may be appropriate following:

• Initial installation.

• Relocation of the balance.

• Significant temperature changes.

• Mechanical impacts.

• Detection of weighing deviations.

• Scheduled inspection intervals.

The required procedure depends on the manufacturer's instructions and the organisation's quality requirements.

Adjustment and calibration – Two different processes

Adjustment and calibration are often confused.

Adjustment changes the balance's indication or measuring behaviour to bring it into agreement with suitable reference values.

Calibration compares the instrument's indications with reference values and documents the resulting deviations.

Calibration does not automatically change the balance's settings.

For organisations with documented quality requirements, an appropriate calibration may be beneficial or necessary.

KERN FKB calibration – Supporting documented quality requirements

Traceable weighing results

Measurement traceability is important in many industrial quality assurance processes.

Appropriate calibration helps document the metrological performance of a balance under defined conditions.

This can be valuable for organisations operating under internal quality procedures or recognised quality management systems.

Accredited calibration

Depending on the specific model and available calibration scope, accredited calibration may be available for suitable KERN FKB balances.

The availability of the required service should be confirmed for the selected weighing capacity and instrument configuration.

A calibration certificate is not automatically included with every KERN FKB balance.

If calibration is required, it should be specified when ordering.

KERN FKB compared with other weighing instrument categories

KERN FKB versus conventional industrial scales

Conventional industrial scales are often selected primarily for load capacity and routine weight control.

The KERN FKB is particularly interesting when high resolution and versatile inspection functions are required alongside practical industrial weighing capacity.

It is therefore well suited to more demanding weight verification tasks.

KERN FKB versus laboratory precision balances

Laboratory precision balances are often designed for controlled environments and specialised laboratory procedures.

The KERN FKB combines a spacious weighing platform with fine readability and functions that are particularly useful in industrial and technical settings.

It can therefore be an attractive alternative when larger samples or components need to be weighed with a high level of resolution.

KERN FKB versus analytical balances

Analytical balances are designed for very small masses and extremely fine readability.

They commonly feature a draft shield to reduce the influence of air movement.

The KERN FKB follows a different concept.

It combines greater weighing capacity, a larger weighing platform and high resolution for practical industrial weighing tasks.

The appropriate instrument category always depends on the measurement requirements.

Buying guide – How to choose the right KERN FKB precision balance

1. Determine the maximum weighing capacity

Start by identifying the highest weight that will regularly be measured.

Include containers, fixtures and any additional loads.

2. Define the required readability

Consider the smallest weight differences that matter for your application.

The balance's readability should be appropriate for the intended inspection task.

3. Consider measurement performance

For quality-critical applications, readability should be evaluated alongside repeatability, linearity and the required measurement uncertainty.

4. Check the weighing platform

The spacious stainless steel platform accommodates many types of components and containers.

For unusually large or irregularly shaped objects, mechanical loading conditions must also be considered.

5. Identify the required weighing functions

Determine which functions are relevant to daily operations.

Parts counting, checkweighing, percentage weighing and PRE-TARE are particularly useful for many industrial applications.

6. Plan digital connectivity

If weighing results need to be transferred to a computer or another system, the appropriate interface solution must be selected.

Compatible adapters and software may need to be purchased separately.

7. Clarify calibration requirements

For documented quality procedures, determine whether calibration is required before ordering.

Frequently asked questions about KERN FKB precision balances

What is the KERN FKB?

KERN FKB is a series of high-resolution precision balances designed for industrial applications, quality control, manufacturing and technical laboratories.

What applications is KERN FKB suitable for?

Typical applications include component weight inspection, parts counting, materials testing, checkweighing and technical weighing procedures.

What does high-resolution weighing mean?

High-resolution weighing means that the balance displays weight in relatively fine increments. The actual readability depends on the selected model.

Does high resolution automatically mean high accuracy?

No. Resolution describes the fineness of the weight indication. Actual measurement performance also depends on repeatability, linearity, environmental conditions and other factors.

What weighing capacities are available?

The KERN FKB series includes different weighing capacities. The available ranges depend on the specific model.

What readability does KERN FKB offer?

Readability varies between models. The technical specifications of the selected product reference should be consulted.

How large is the weighing platform?

The KERN FKB features a stainless steel weighing platform measuring 340 × 240 mm.

Is KERN FKB suitable for industrial applications?

Yes. The series is designed for professional weighing tasks in industrial, manufacturing and quality control environments.

Can KERN FKB count parts?

Yes. The integrated parts counting function determines quantities of sufficiently uniform items based on their weight.

What is checkweighing?

Checkweighing verifies whether a measured weight falls within predefined tolerance limits.

Does KERN FKB support percentage weighing?

Yes. Percentage weighing allows measured weights to be expressed relative to a reference weight.

What is the PRE-TARE function?

PRE-TARE allows a known tare weight to be taken into account when determining the net weight of a sample.

Can KERN FKB be connected to a computer?

Yes, using a suitable interface solution. Depending on the configuration, a separately available adapter may be required.

Does KERN FKB have a USB interface?

USB connectivity can be provided through an appropriate optional interface solution. It is not necessarily included in every standard configuration.

Can KERN FKB connect via Ethernet?

Ethernet connectivity may be possible using compatible accessories.

Is wireless data transfer possible?

Depending on the model and available accessories, suitable Wi-Fi or Bluetooth interface solutions may be used.

What is the KERN Communication Protocol?

The KERN Communication Protocol supports digital communication between compatible KERN weighing instruments and external systems.

Is KERN FKB a laboratory balance?

KERN FKB can be used in technical laboratories. However, its primary positioning is high-resolution weighing for industrial and technical applications.

Is KERN FKB suitable for quality control?

Yes. High resolution and functions such as checkweighing and parts counting make the series suitable for numerous quality assurance tasks.

Does KERN FKB have internal automatic adjustment?

The KERN FKB series described here uses external adjustment. The specifications of the selected model should be checked.

Can KERN FKB be calibrated?

Yes. Suitable calibration services may be available according to the model and its technical specifications.

Is an accredited calibration certificate included?

Not automatically. An appropriate calibration service may need to be ordered separately.

Is the stainless steel weighing platform waterproof?

A stainless steel platform does not mean that the complete balance is waterproof. The manufacturer's environmental and cleaning instructions must be followed.

Which KERN FKB model should I choose?

The most important selection criteria are weighing capacity, readability, measurement requirements, weighing functions and any necessary digital connectivity.

Buy KERN FKB precision balances on SMI

The KERN FKB high-resolution precision balances combine fine weight indication, a generously sized stainless steel platform and versatile functions for demanding industrial weighing applications.

Whether used for industrial quality assurance, component inspection, materials testing or parts counting, the series supports professional users in a wide range of weighing tasks.

Different combinations of weighing capacity and readability make it possible to select a model that matches specific application requirements.

Integrated weighing functions help simplify repetitive inspection and verification procedures.

Optional digital connectivity provides additional possibilities for recording, transferring and processing weighing results.

The KERN FKB series is therefore particularly attractive to organisations that require professional weighing performance, practical operation and flexible application possibilities.

Explore the KERN FKB range and select the high-resolution precision balance that best meets your industrial weighing requirements.

KERN FKB – High resolution. Versatile functions. Professional weighing performance.