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Purchasing Truck Scales

6 Factors To Consider When Purchasing Truck Scales

Truck scales are used to weigh trucks or heavy-duty vehicles while in motion or rest. The platform of truck scales is made of steel or from a mixture of steel and concrete. The platform is mounted using a ramp or pit, and the truck ascends on this ramp for measurement. The modern truck scales function with load cell systems, which combine sensors, electric current, and technology for accurate measurements.

A truck scale can conduct weight measurement by following any of these methods: Weigh-In-Motion (WIM), one-stop, or One-Axle. In WIM, the axle weight is calculated as the truck passes over a sensor pad. The truck is weighed as a whole for the one-stop method, and the truck should not be in motion. Multiple scales attached to a sensor box are used to calculate the weight, and for the final measurement, all the axles are added together. In one axle method, the truck needs to stop multiple times. Each axle weight is measured to determine the total weight.

Truck scales are of paramount importance to the trucking business. It helps to determine the weight of the loaded goods to decide whether it is within the permissible weight limit. It also helps to monitor the intake and output volumes at various facilities, construction sites, mining areas, or solid-waste processing and recycling centres, and more. Truck scales also ensures that the vehicle remains compliant with the standard road policies to prevent road accidents. It helps to maintain a balance between trucking businesses, drivers, and law enforcement. Hence, if you want to buy truck weighing scales for your business, you need to consider the following factors.

· Scale Longevity

While purchasing truck scales, ensure that it is engineered and tested in real-world scenarios for better longevity. You can ask your manufacturer to provide testimonials about the truck scales’ performance in real-world conditions before you make your purchase. Make sure that the supplier has conducted lifecycle testing instead of concentrated load capacity [CLC] testing. Ask your vendor to detail the truck scales’ capacity to determine how many trucks it can handle per year. Load cells are central to the truck scales, it should be durable and of high-quality. The load cells should be kept protected from external conditions, like rough working conditions and harsh climates. ‘

· Accuracy

Determine the scale type that you want for your business. You can either digital or analog load cells. Analog truck scales display weight to the nearest decimal point, whereas digital scales give an accurate measurement. Hence they are more reliable. Analog scales operate with the help of a spring system which has a probability of getting loose over time. Digital scales function with the use of batteries. However, it needs to change frequently. Scale accuracy and dependability are essential factors that will help you to make the right choice. Traditional analog load cells have a lower initial cost, but the maintenance over its lifecycle is high. Digital load cells provide more remarkable accuracy as compared to analog ones.

· Warranty

Warranty on truck scale facilitates better communication between you and your manufacturer if any manufacturing issues arise in your truck scales after your purchase it. Before you sign on the agreement, look at their warranty cover to check for hidden fees and exceptions to coverages. Most of the vendors only cover the truck scale but charge you for repair/replacement of broken parts. Find a manufacturer who provides you with a transparent, simple warranty that will cover the parts cost, labor cost, travel time, and mileage cost.

· Installation 

Installation is another key parameter. The time taken for installing a truck scale depends on the weighbridge type, contractor, and delivery time. Choose a vendor who will deliver the truck scale to your site and install it at a cost-effective price. If the truck scale needs to be installed at a place that requires more planning and effort, you can also outsource it to a third party. In that case, you will have to co-ordinate specific processes like crane rentals, delivery schedules, and concrete companies. The installation process takes a period between 1 to 2 months.

· Testing And Calibration

The truck scales should be tested and calibrated for improved accuracy and reliability. Ensure that your vendor practices accredited testing and calibration methods to reduce the potential risks of inaccurate measurements, product failures, and accidents. Ask your manufacturer if relevant regulatory authorities have approved the testing and calibration process. Truck scales should be calibrated effectively to verify their performance at specified loads. Robust testing and screening should be performed before you make your purchase.

· Build Quality And Design

Depending on your business needs, configure the type and size of the truck scale so that it can adapt to your working space quickly. Sturdy build quality will enable the truck scale to withstand adverse climate conditions like freezing temperatures, torrential rain, or lighting strokes, or rough working conditions without sustaining any damage. It should use top-quality load cells. The appropriate design will also make the installation, maintenance, and operation process more accessible. It will maximize uptime and reduce downtime effectively. Ask your vendor about how they will support your truck scale throughout its lifecycle and if they will provide a nationwide cover if the truck scale fails to operate properly.

While choosing a truck scale, make sure it is not poorly designed; it should have an adequate drainage system, the design should support the truck scale structure. Evaluate the design closely to avoid any future issues.

To Conclude:

Truck scales are long-term investments. These points will enable you to choose the correct truck scale for your business. Keep a close eye on the installation process, certifications, testing and calibration, and your truck scales’ longevity.