A weighbridge, also referred to as a truck scale or railroad scale, is a large weighing device utilised for weighing vehicles. Typically found at truck stops, trucking terminals, quarries, landfills, or ports, weighbridges are primarily used to weigh heavy commercial vehicles like trucks, trailers, and railway cars.
What is a weighbridge used for?
The purpose of weighbridges is to determine the weight of a vehicle and its contents. This information serves several important functions, including ensuring compliance with weight restrictions and regulations, assessing tolls or fees, and monitoring vehicle weight for safety reasons.
To illustrate, let’s consider a scenario involving a shipping company transporting a load of goods. Prior to loading the truck, it is driven onto a weighbridge and weighed. The weight data is then recorded and stored in the company’s computer system.
Next, the truck is loaded with the goods and driven onto another weighbridge to be weighed once again. The weight reading is compared to the previously recorded weight to ensure the truck does not exceed weight restrictions and is not overweight.
If the weight exceeds the limit, the company may need to unload and redistribute the goods or pay additional fees for transporting the excess weight. By utilising a weighbridge, the shipping company can ensure compliance with regulations, avoiding potential fines and safety risks associated with overweight vehicles.
How are weighbridges constructed?
Weighbridges typically consist of a platform made of steel or concrete, supported by load cells that measure the weight of the vehicle as it passes over. They may also include a computer system to record weight readings and other relevant data such as vehicle identification numbers, as well as the time and date of weighing.
There are four common types of weighbridges available:
- Pit-mounted weighbridges: These weighbridges are installed in a dug pit, with the weighing surface flush with the ground level. They are suitable for sites with limited space or where a low profile is necessary.
- Surface-mounted weighbridges: Installed above ground level, trucks drive onto the weighing surface via a ramp. Surface-mounted weighbridges are easier and more cost-effective to install but require more space compared to pit-mounted weighbridges.
- Portable weighbridges: Designed for easy mobility between different locations, these weighbridges are lightweight and typically made of durable materials like aluminum or steel. They are ideal for temporary sites or remote locations.
- Axle weighbridges: These weighbridges are specifically designed to weigh individual axles or groups of axles instead of the entire vehicle. Commonly used in industries such as mining and construction, axle weighbridges ensure that each axle stays within weight limits.
When choosing a weighbridge, you should consider factors such as available space, budget, and specific application requirements. Researching different manufacturers and comparing their products, pricing, reliability, durability, and customer support is recommended.
How much does a weighbridge cost?
The cost of a weighbridge can range from £12,000 to £25,000, depending on the required application and sophistication. Solutions that connect to internal systems for data capture and management may be more expensive.
Weightru offers a range of high-quality weighbridges suitable for various applications, along with a dedicated support team for service, calibrations, and repairs. Contact one of our specialists today to find the right weighbridge solution for your needs.