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Weighbridges come in several types, each suitable for different operational requirements. They include:
Electronic weighbridges, also known as digital weighbridges, have weight measurement systems based on sensors. Deformation-weighted metallic beams, or load cells, are the most common type of sensor. When the vehicle drives over the scale, these sensors measure the weight, and the electronic system shows the weight.
In industrial settings, electronic weighbridges are widely used because they can connect to computers for easier use. These weighbridges are known for their precision and ability to handle large loads.
The hydraulic type uses fluid pressure to measure weight. Some weighbridges lift and tilt part of the platform when the vehicle drives over it to measure weight. This kind of weighbridge does not need much space because it has a small size. It is often suitable for sites where space is limited and not for weighing large trucks.
The mechanical types have levers and springs that measure the weight. When a car drives onto the scale, its weight causes levers to move, and springs help measure the weight. These are strong, last long, and need little power. They are good for simple work in outdoor environments.
This configuration includes several load cells placed under the platform. When a vehicle drives over the bridge, the load cells measure the weight and send this information to a digital display. They are very accurate and widely used in many commercial and industrial applications. This make them suitable for large-scale trucking, shipping containers, and manufacturing industries.
This weighbridge type has a pit for the load cells or mechanical parts below the platform. It offers the benefit of being flush with the ground, making it easy for vehicles to drive on and off. This type is ideal for places where trucks must drive without ramps or extra height. It is commonly used in places with limited space but the need for precise weight measurements.
The choice of materials for weighbridges is critical to their performance and longevity. Some of the key features include:
Concrete weighs more than steel and the weighbridge is more stable. Concrete handles heavy rain, chemicals, or water without getting damaged. Strong steel can also work well and is good for extremely heavy weights. Steel resists bending and warping better when under heavy-use conditions.
Weighing platforms must be durable enough to support heavy vehicles without bending or breaking. All weighbridges are built strong enough to handle the weight of large trucks and machinery. Steel frame platforms are best for this due to their rigidity and ability to withstand strain.
If weighbridges are used outdoors, they need protection from rust caused by rain, salt, or harsh weather. Longer-lasting weighbridges do this by coating steel platforms with zinc or using stainless steel. Concrete platforms are naturally immune to rust and chemical damage.
Changes in heat and cold affect weighbridges fitted with load cells more than other types. Cold causes materials to contract, while heat causes them to expand. Regular thermal strain makes materials crack or warp over time. Select materials that handle temperature shifts well. Examples are temperature-tolerant steel or special concrete mixes.
Precision weight data helps these sectors avoid issues with safety, cost, and rules. Some of these commercial uses include:
Big trucks carrying goods need to be weighed at each stage, from loading to leaving. Weighbridges give the weights needed for safe transport. They stop overloading from damaging roads or causing accidents. Weighing first pays less in fees to the government. It also improves efficiency by cutting delays during delivery.
Farms with large harvests use weighbridges to measure their crops and bulk grains. Accurate weights determine fair payments to farmers for their crops, ensuring they are not shortchanged.
Building companies that use large trucks for materials, like cement or steel beams, need weighbridges too. The scales check that each truck does not exceed weight limits on narrow roads.
In mining, trucks load raw materials like minerals and ores. Weighbridges measure these loads before the trucks leave the site. This measurement avoids fines from exceeding legal weight limits on public roads and ensures better safety.
Garbage trucks and recycling vehicles also use weighbridges in their work. The scales check the weight of waste collected to fairly charge customers based on how much waste they produce.
Buyers should keep the following in mind when buying a weighbridge:
The first consideration is what maximum weight the weighbridge should manage without failure. Trucks and trailers commonly used in the business all exert great pressures on the bridge. Choose a capacity that exceeds the heaviest vehicles by a good margin. This avoids damage to the bridge from overloading over the long term.
Consider the type of work to be done. Simple tasks may need only rough weights. But measuring for taxes or shipping requires precision. In these cases, choose a digital bridge that offers fine resolution. It provides accurate weight totals.
Analog switches usually cost much less than digitals. So, if there are no advanced needs, the simple switch is the more affordable option. Also, balance total expenses like installation, upkeep, and software when estimating costs.
Think about upkeep, too. Load cell scales need electrical work sometimes. But they include software to track usage. Mechanical scales have less tech but require frequent checking of parts.
The bridge also must properly fit the trucks. The platforms should accommodate the largest vehicle length and width currently in use. The longest truck needs extra room on all sides for safe weighing.
Consider the proposed installation location. PIT-style bridges are good when levels can be dug out easily. But ramped styles suit uneven ground. The existing terrain will determine the appropriate style without needing extensive editing.
A. They all have a platform for vehicles, load cells for weight measuring and electronics for data handling. Some also have software for managing results on computers.
A. Bridges exposed to weather or heavy traffic may last 10 - 15 years with good care. Mechanical ones might last even longer with routine checks.
A. Many have safety features that shield them from hackers attempting to steal data or control the system.
A. Companies that handle high truck numbers may use multiple scales at once to speed up the process. Otherwise, trucks must wait too long to be weighed.
A. Certain designs resist temperature effects, such as special materials that limit expansion or contraction. This keeps the system accurate in tough conditions.
