How does a weighbridge work?

Know the key principles

Almost all weighbridges have components in common, which work together to measure weight. It is important for a buyer to know these components well to determine the truck scale best suited to meet their needs. There are some concepts that you should know before selecting a weighbridge for your business:

Foundations: You can install a truck scale below ground level, so that the running surface is at ground level. You can also install it on the ground with ramps, thus allowing the trucks to enter and exit the equipment. Whatever the type of permanent installation, you need concrete foundations.

Platform: Also known as the weighbridge’s deck, it is the structure that creates the road surface for trucks. The platform is usually composed of modular sections that are assembled together to cover the desired length. The modules can be manufactured with a tear-lacquered surface or designed to be filled with concrete, creating a concrete surface.

Load cells: It is the load cells that measure the weight on the truck scale. Modern models use load cells as elements integrated into the structure. This means that the platform is supported on the load cells. There are a few different types of load cells, and they are usually placed at the angles of each platform module.

Indicator: Also known as the weighing terminal, the weight indicator is the control panel of the weighbridge. It shows the weight value to the operator and often serves as a connection point to other peripherals.

Cables: The information is transmitted from the load cells via cables. These may be susceptible to rodent attacks. We recommend the use of cables with metallic ant-rodent protection, offered in Barbal ® TC-A and TC-DC load cells.

Junction box: The cables from each load cell are routed to the junction box, from where a single cable exits towards the indicator. In sporadic cases, it is possible for a truck scale to have more than one junction box, depending on the number of load cells present. Some newer systems do not require the use of a junction box, like Barbal ® digital TC-DC load cells.

Information management: Handwritten weighing slips gave way to printed forms. Truck weighing management software plays a key role for companies, small or large, allowing to accelerate weighing times and reduce the risk of error.

Accessories: They can be road controls, such as barriers and traffic lights; weight repeaters, which show the weight at a distance for viewing by the truck driver; special equipment, such as cameras and detectors, can also be incorporated into the truck scale. Moreover, some companies, as Barbal ®, are exploring new self-service and automation features.

Check with our staff to get more information.