#scalesystem

Weighing scales are essential for maintaining safety standards of trucks and drivers. There is a weight limit to every truck, which should be adhered to. If it exceeds, there is an increased risk of accidents. Along with that, overweight trucks cause damage to road surfaces by accelerating wear and tear. Heavy trucks may also cut through your pockets as toll policies,taxation and overweight fines are based upon the load carried by a truck.These factors have contributed to further development and diversification of truck weighing technology.

Types of Truck Scale Mechanism Systems

Based on the material and mechanism involved, three kinds of scale systems are used to measure a truck’s weight. Using either of them, you can determine the overall weight of a truck, load exerted by a moving truck etc.accurately with a low error percentage

 Piezoelectric Scale Systems

This system is the most commonly used scale mechanism for trucks. It is composed of a sensor made of copper strand surrounded by a piezoelectric material, which is covered by copper sheath. When pressure is applied, the piezoelectric material produces an electric charge. This system is embedded on pavements whose material characteristics influence the output signal. The axle weight or passing tire can be determined by measuring and analyzing the charge produced.

The piezoelectric scale system provides gross vehicle weights within an error range of ±15% of actual vehicle weight for almost 95% of measured trucks. It has a lifespan of 4 years, after which it needs to be replaced.

Bending Plate Systems

Bending plate system consists of two steel platforms which are placed adjacent to each other, covering a predefined lane. The steel plate is then connected to strain gauges at various critical points, which give measurements whenever tires or axles pass over them. The output given by strain gauges is analyzed, following which the axle load is determined.

The truck scale installation technique depends upon the material of the roadway. When installed and calibrated properly, this system gives vehicle weight with an error range of ±10% of the actual vehicle weight for 95% trucks measured. Its lifespan is around 6 years and is quite rugged.

Single Load Cell Scale Systems

It consists of two weighing platforms placed next to each other, creating a normal traffic lane. A single load (hydraulic) cell is installed at the center of two weighing platforms, which measure the force applied on the road. It is installed like the bending plate scales; however the inductive loops and axle sensor are fitted in. These provide information regarding axle spacing and vehicle length.

Miscellaneous system electronics are employed to assist in analyzing recorded measurements to determine axle and tire loads. A well-calibrated single load cell scale system produces an error range of ±6% of the actual vehicle weight of 95% measured vehicles.It’s the most durable system with a lifespan of 12 years.