27/02/2017
How to Choose a Weighbridge?
Truck Scales, also known as Weighbridges, are essential weighing machines for entrepreneurs who are in the road cargo transportation Business. These devices help to calculate the weight of the load being carried by weighing a truck before and after it is loaded. It is important to choose one that is suited for your industry and your specific needs. An unsuitable truck scale will not serve your requirements effectively and could even create costly problems for your business. The following are important factors that truck scale buyers should take into consideration when buying a truck scale/weighbridge.
The first factor is the configuration. Weighbridges/Truck scales come in many different configurations. However, there are three main categories from which to choose, with the first one being full- length vehicle scales. These scales usually have 6-10 load cells joined together on a single platform. They are designed to measure the entire weight of the vehicle at once. As a result, full-length truck scales are the best for industries that charge for cargo by its weight, such as recyclers and cement transporters. Single axle scales usually measure the weight of one axle group at a time. These scales are not approved for commercial trade where transporters charge for cargo based on weight. With multi-axle vehicle scales, it is possible to to get the aggregate vehicle weight along with individual axle weights for greater flexibility.
Decide whether to go for a pit-style or above-ground foundation. With the first option, the ground is excavated and the scale is installed in a pit so that it is level with the road surface. While this type of vehicle scale foundation takes up little space, you still need to install a drainage system to prevent underground water and debris from causing damage.As the name implies, above-ground scales remain on the road’s surface. These scales are easier to maintain and service, but they take up more space, since ramps are required on either end to allow trucks to drive onto the weighing platform.
The third is software solutions. Your weighbridge has the potential to provide a wealth of information that can help you to control wastage, monitor costs and improve efficiency. Carefully consider what you need from your weighbridge –whether data transfer for invoicing and purchasing, added security and fraud protection, reporting for legislative purposes or sharing data across multiple sites.It is vital that your software supplier understands the weighing industry and has a prove ability to develop software that seamlessly integrates with your business systems and requirements. Selecting the right peripherals - from software integrated with your back office systems to intelligent weight indicators that can analyze and store date - can greatly increase the value of your weighbridge system.
The last but not least is Maintenance, repair and calibration. A weighbridge is a major investment. It is wise to also invest in a service and maintenance contract that will minimize downtime, maximize up-time and ensure that your weighbridge keeps operating accurately and efficiently. Not all suppliers have the expertise and experience to maintain or repair all types and makes of weighbridge. Thoroughly check the credentials of your service provider, including whether they have extensive coverage in your area, the number of quali¬fied technicians and their quali¬fications and training. When it comes to weighbridges, be sure to look for a supplier that has a dedicated fleet of weighbridge test units to reduce your waiting time if your bridge needs to be reverified.
