Selecting the Right Truck Scale Solution

When investing in a truck scale system, it is important to consider your specific weighing needs and choose the right solution accordingly. By evaluating a few key factors, you can determine the scale type, capacity, platform, and features that best fit your application and budget.

Understanding Truck Scales 

A truck scale is a large set of scales, typically installed permanently on a concrete foundation, used for weighing entire vehicles and their contents. By doing so, it helps in complying with legal weight restrictions and in maintaining vehicle efficiency.

Compliance with Regulations on Public Roads

Ensuring that vehicles meet legal weight limits is essential for compliance on public roads. The Gram PR scale is particularly beneficial for transport companies needing to adhere to such regulations, including the Haulage Regulations in the UK. Regular checks for compliance with haulage regulations are crucial to avoid vehicle stops. Common issues leading to stops include overloading, improper documentation, and safety violations.

Gram PR Series

The Mobile scale for weighing trucks Gram PR consists of low-profile aluminium portable scales perfect for flexible weighing needs. With capacities up to 20,000 kg and integrated handles for mobility, this modular scale is easy to transport and store when not in use. It comes in four sizes to handle small and large loads.

Key features include:

• Low profile and high capacity: With a height of just 60 mm and a maximum capacity of 20,000 kg, the Gram PR scale is ideal for heavy loads.
• Installation versatility: It can be installed both above ground and built-in, making it suitable for both mobile and permanent weighing stations.
• Robust construction: Made of high-strength aluminium, it ensures durability and reliability.
• Easy mobility: Thanks to the integrated handles, it is easy to transport and store.

Wide range of applications for the Gram PR mobile truck scale

1. Axle load weighing for compliance with regulations on public roads: The Gram PR scale is ideal for weighing the axle load of vehicles. This is particularly important for transport companies who need to ensure that their vehicles do not exceed the legal weight limits.
2. Incoming and outgoing goods inspections: In the logistics industry, it is essential to accurately determine the weight of goods entering and leaving the warehouse. The Gram PR scale enables fast and accurate weight determination, resulting in more efficient work processes.
3. Creation of mobile or permanent weighing stations: Due to its flexible installation options, the Gram PR scale can be used for both temporary and permanent weighing stations. This gives companies the flexibility to use the scale as needed.

How does the Axle Load Weighing work?

Axle load weighing is a method of determining the weight that each axle of a vehicle transfers to the road. This method is particularly important for traffic monitoring, load control and to prevent road damage that can be caused by overloaded vehicles. Axle load weighing is often used for lorries, buses and other large vehicles.

Axle load weighing works as follows:

1. Weighing platform: The vehicle travels over weighing platforms, which can be embedded in the floor or designed as mobile systems. Each axle of the vehicle is weighed individually. There are different types of scales, such as platform scales, weighbridges or mobile weighing systems.
2. Measurement: When an axle of the vehicle crosses the weighing platform, the system measures the weight of this axle. You can see in the picture, which buttons you have to press on the Indicator of the Gram PR to initiate the weighing of the axle load.
3. Data processing: The recorded weight data is transferred to a computer system. We provide the so calles EX-Link, which is a free Excel file prepared to receive data from our industrial scales. The data can be analysed and recorded.

Gram Xtrem Speed

On the other hand, the Xtrem Speed is a heavy-duty truck scales designed for in-ground installation, allowing vehicles to drive over the low-profile platform from any direction. Available in 10,000kg capacities in 5m or 6m deck sizes, these fully electronic scales leverage Xtrem digital technology for top accuracy and data security.

Key features include:

• Digital weight data transmission
• Hermetic stainless steel connections
• Industry-leading sensors
• Advanced connectivity options
• Easy access load cell compartments
• Auto data capture through Indicators, PC, tablets, or smartphones

Key Capacity Considerations 

The weighing capacity required is another essential factor. Light-duty axle scales typically handle 20,000 lb or 40,000 lb capacities. Heavy-duty weighbridges range from 60,000 lb to over 100,000 lb. Make sure to select a scale rated for your target vehicle weights plus a safe margin. Overloading scales will impact accuracy and durability.

For high-volume sites with multiple vehicle types, a weighbridge with an 80,000+ lb capacity and 10-foot width provides flexibility. For single-axle loads under 20,000 lb, a set of portable axle scales in the 20,000-40,000 range should suffice. Consider future operations growth when selecting scale capacity.

Other considerations

• Durability and Maintenance: Consider the durability of the scale and the level of maintenance it will require. A more durable scale may have a higher upfront cost but can save you money in the long run.
• Legal Compliance:  Ensure that the scale you choose complies with all local and national legal requirements to avoid fines and other legal issues.

Advanced Features

 Look for truck scales outfitted with features that enhance functionality:

• Load cells measure weight data. Digital options give higher accuracy.
• Weight terminals capture and display load cell readings. Choose user-friendly models.
• Digital weight ticket printers document each transaction.

For best value, target scales with the specific features your application requires. Avoid overspending on unnecessary capabilities.

Making the Final Decision 

Choosing the right truck scale is a critical decision. Take your time, do your research, and consider all the factors mentioned above to ensure that you select the best solution for your needs. If you would like more information or help selecting the ideal truck scale products for your weighing operations, please contact our knowledgeable support team for guidance.

Conclusion 

Selecting the right truck scale takes careful consideration – but following this guide will set you up for success. Determine your weighing needs, capacity and platform requirements, and any useful features. With the right solution matched to your facility, you’ll leverage your investment in truck scale equipment for maximum efficiency and productivity. Reach out if you need any guidance finding the ideal scales for your operations.