When it comes to weighing machines, there are two main types: Second hand and new.

Both have their own set of pros and cons, so it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you.

In this blog post, we will compare Second hand vs new vehicle weighing machines, so that you can make an informed decision about which type is best for your business.

Advantages of Second Hand Weighing Machines

Second hand weighing machines have a few advantages.

First, they are usually much cheaper than new machines.

Second, they often come with a warranty or guarantee, so you can be sure that they will work properly.

Finally, Second hand machines are often easier to find than new ones.

Disadvantages of Second Hand Weighing Machines

However, there are also some disadvantages to Second hand weighing machines.

First, they may not be as accurate as new machines.

Second, they may not last as long as new machines.

Finally, Second hand machines may not have all the features that you want or need.

Advantages of New Weighing Machines

New vehicle weighing machines also have some advantages.

First, they are generally more accurate than Second hand machines.

Second, they often come with more features and options.

Finally, they usually have a longer warranty or guarantee than Second hand machines.

Disadvantages of New Weighing Machines

However, there are also some disadvantages to new vehicle weighing machines.

First, they can be very expensive.

Second, they may not be as easy to find as Second hand machines.

Finally, you may not be able to get the same warranty or guarantee with a new machine that you would with a Second hand machine.

Concluding Remarks

So, which is better for you? Second hand or new vehicle weighing machines?

The answer depends on your needs and budget.

If accuracy is your top priority, then you should go with a new machine. However, if you are on a tight budget, then a Second hand machine may be the better option for you.

Whatever you decide, make sure to do your research so that you can make the best decision for your business.

To learn more, get in touch with us today.

You may also like:

1. A Complete Guide on Weighing a Lorry
2. Electric Vehicles: Is The Future Light?
3. Fines & Penalties for Overloading Vehicles – Preventative Solutions

The post Second Hand vs New Vehicle Weighing Machines: Which is Better for You? appeared first on Weightru.

If you are in the transportation industry, then you know that it is important to know how to weigh a truck. 

This is because there are regulations governing how much weight a truck can carry. 

And with the rise in the number of Weigh in Motion (WIM) Sensors and random checks, it is more important than ever to know the weight of your vehicles to avoid any big fines. 

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of weighing a truck, so that you can be sure to stay within the legal limits. 

Let’s get started!

How to Weigh a Truck?

A vehicle may be overloaded on any of its axles, its gross weight, or its trail weight, which are all considered separate offences. 

For instance, if a truck was overloaded on two axles and its gross weight, this would result in 3 separate fines. 

To ensure you don’t exceed this, weight limits are provided on the manufacturer’s plate on the vehicle – they are determined by the technical specification of the truck and the need to protect UK roads. 

Currently, there are only two ways to weigh a truck directly: weighbridges and axle weigh pads. 

However, weighing products before they are loaded is an alternative that extends the range to pallet truck scales, platform scales, and weigh beams/U-Frame scales.

Weighbridges

Weighbridges are used to calculate a vehicle’s load, which is measured by weighing the vehicle when empty and when full. 

This may be done with either your personal on-site weighbridge or one of the private weighbridges available throughout the country. 

Having a weighbridge on the site is one of the most straightforward methods to guarantee that you’re following legal requirements. 

You may avoid financial or legal penalties by weighing your vehicles before they depart the site. However, they aren’t the most popular solution because they cost around £16,000 and above. There’s also a second restriction: weighbridges need a lot of space, which isn’t always available.

Axle Weigh Pads

Axle Weigh Pads are used to compute individual axle weights and overall gross weight of a vehicle. 

And one of the benefits of them is that they are intended to be lightweight and portable. This means they may be taken with a truck and used throughout the trip, as needed. 

The cost of weighing your vehicle with an axle scale is significantly lower than installing a weighbridge, and they are in some ways more accurate; a weighbridge can only measure the overall weight of a truck, however, Axle Weigh Pads can calculate the total weight of each axle. 

This implies that they will also draw attention to uneven loading, which can help to minimise wear and tear on your trucks.

Weighing Goods Before Loading the Truck

Pallet Truck Scales

Pallet truck scales are a great choice for weighing your cargo before loading it onto a truck. 

Because it takes less time to weigh the load and pallet truck scales are far less expensive than both Axle Weigh Pads and Weighbridges, this helps to improve efficiency. 

However, you should keep in mind the weight of your truck when empty (the tare weight), as it’s not feasible to weigh the vehicle itself with these scales.

Platform Scales

While pallet truck scales are not as fast and flexible as platform scales, which allow you to weigh and move the items at the same time, they are typically more precise than pallet truck scales and, if needed, can measure up to a higher capacity. 

If you need to weigh palletised products and use a fork truck, consider a pit mounted platform scale, which only requires you to go over the scale to get a weight. However, in order to remove the fork truck from the scale’s reading, you’ll need to know its weight.

Weigh Beams and U-Frame Scales

Platform scales are popular, but they’re inconvenient to move and difficult to store. 

Weigh Beams and U frame scales are a portable alternative that may be taken to the item to weigh it instead of vice versa. When not in use, Weigh Beams and U frames can be stored away.

The Bottom Line

Overloaded trucks will contribute to a wide range of concerns. 

Trucks that are heavier than the standard limit increase the risk of accidents (as they are more unstable, need a longer stopping time, over-speeding when driving downhill etc.), accelerate the deterioration of roads and infrastructure, and create uneven comparisons between transportation modes and operators.

Not to mention, overloading is breaking the law!

Please contact us today to find out more.

In the meantime, check our full range of vehicle weighing solutions here.

You may also like:

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2. 3 Common Types of Vehicle Weighing Solutions
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The post How to Weigh a Truck? appeared first on Weightru.

Load cells are sensors that are used to measure weight or force. 

They are commonly found in industrial and manufacturing settings, but they can also be used in a variety of other applications. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the different types of load cells, how they work, and some of the common applications for them. 

What Are Load Cells?

Most industrial weighing equipment contain load cells, which are essential components. 

The most basic definition of a load cell is that it measures weight – or, more accurately, directional force – by means of a combination of springs and strain gauges converted into an electrical output.

Depending on the intended application and environment, load cells come in a variety of forms and standards. 

Some types, however, require calibrated proving rings to determine load displacement – although this is less common. Strain gauge load cells are widely used in the weighing sector, with the exception of certain laboratories where precise mechanical balances are still utilised.

Among the many sorts of load cells available, distinct types and designs can be distinguished in two key ways:

• By the specific technique they use to detect weight (compression load cells, tension load cells, and other measurement types)
• By the type of output signal generated (hydraulic load cells, piezoelectric load cells and other various configurations)

It should be stated that, in a strict sense, any true load cell will always be designed to operate (and should therefore be aligned) in the direction of gravity. 

However, the term “load cell” is frequently used to refer to a wide range of force-sensing device kinds, many of which are specifically designed to detect forces applied from all directions.

Many workplaces nowadays have a similar meaning for these phrases, so it’s good to be precise about the sort of device you’ll be using for your intended application when calculating load cell prices or planning to purchase load cell components.

How Do Load Cells Work?

Spring elements attached to strain gauge materials (usually foil meshes or semiconductors) are most often made of steel or aluminium, resulting in a strain gauge that is both extremely durable and somewhat elastic. 

Deformation will occur to some extent under enough pressure, whether it is down force from above (compression) or a pulling force from below (tension), before returning to their original form and shape. The strain gauges can precisely measure the degree of this deformation in the spring components. 

In a typical load cell, it’s this micro deformation analysis that is transformed into an extremely precise weight reading using electronic means. In this way, directional pressure affects a load cell transducer and generates an electrical signal that is proportional to the measured force. 

Because they are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, load cells may be affected by a variety of external factors that must be adequately controlled, monitored, and adjusted. 

Overall temperatures, for example, might influence the structure (and therefore electrical resistance) of any material, as well as a wide range of other environmental issues such as bad weather, dampness and dust ingress, and changes in ambient conditions between sites.

Types of Load Cells

In the UK and the rest of the world, there are several load cell types and configurations available for industrial, manufacturing, and household usage. 

In this section, we will give a brief outline of each of these types and what sorts of applications they might be best suited to.

Compression Load Cells

A compression load cell measures downward or lateral “pushing” forces only, much like a traditional weighing machine. They are also known as “column load cells,” “pancake load cells,” or “donut load cells.” 

They’re often equipped with an integrated button design, making them a lightweight and efficient type of load cell for use in tight spaces. They’re especially prevalent at silo and boat weighing stations in industrial settings.

Tension Load Cells

A tension load cell is a type of strain gauge that measures forces that “pull” on it – usually from below – in the same way as a hanging digital scale at a grocery store fresh produce aisle. 

Tension load cell transducers (also known as tensile load cells, tension links, or load links) are frequently used on an industrial scale for weighing vessels and suspended hoppers, material research and testing, laboratory environment general force measurement applications, and in aerospace process monitoring.

Hydraulic Load Cells

Hydraulic load cells incorporate a diaphragm attached to the piston that measures displacement under force. The tube of filling fluid is compressed or expanded as pressure rises or falls, which is then detected and converted by the load cell into a readout. 

Hydraulic pressure load cells are frequently used in riskier, more environmentally harsh, or difficult-to-reach places because of their greater robustness compared to the delicate electrical circuitry of many other load cell types. 

That said, they are typically used in simple industrial and agricultural weighing applications, where common environmental challenges include moisture, dirt or chemical exposure.

Micro Load Cells

Due to its compact nature, micro load cells usually rely on semiconductors, rather than foil strain gauges to sense and measure deformation. 

They’re available in a number of configurations and styles, including both compression and tension varieties, and they may be used in a wide range of settings as bigger versions (as long as they can tolerate enough pressure). 

Miniature or micro load cells are frequently used in cases where space is limited. They generally provide extremely accurate and precise readings ranging from 10 g to 2000 pounds, depending on the brand and model. 

When shopping for micro load cells, it’s important to note that the majority of micro versions are restricted to measuring force from a single direction, so it’s vital to understand any “parasitic forces” (i.e., forces being applied from another direction) that may jeopardise the measurement’s accuracy or usefulness.

Piezoelectric Load Cells

In the case of dynamic loading, less sturdy strain gauge-type load cells can fail as a result of repeated application of sufficiently high dynamic load cycles. 

Essentially, piezoelectric load cells function on similar principles to conventional strain gauge load cells – that is, they use the basic principles of deformation. 

However rather than strain gauge foils, piezo cells are constructed of a different sort of transducer material. This material is able to transform the readings of dynamic and frequent force applied on it into an electrical output based on changes in resistance across the material. 

Compared to regular load cells, piezoelectric sensors can’t be used for taking static measurements of weight or strain, because these create a fixed amount of charge on the material. 

As a result, the voltage output does not change under static load, but some piezoelectric applications can be adapted with accessories like charge amplifiers to provide quasi-static measurements in the right conditions.

The Takeaway

An often overlooked but crucially important component, load cells are used in almost every modern industrial, manufacturing, weight-based sales or quality assurance environment you could name. 

Today’s markets offer a wide range of configurations, brands, and load cell transducer types, and some understanding of what they are and how they function is necessary when selecting the best product type for your intended application.

To find out more, please get in touch today.

In the meantime, take a look at our Vehicle Weighing Solutions here.

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The post How Do Load Cells Work? A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Weightru.

In the modern world that we live in today, we are lucky to have extremely high-tech devices that provide precise measurements, touchscreen features and internet connectivity that give the most accurate and reliable measurements. 

But, it’s not always been like that and the history of the weighing scales is a long and interesting one.

Did you know, the first recorded evidence of a weight-measuring device was found in the tomb of an Egyptian pharaoh who died in 2300 BC? 

Since then, weighing scales have been used for a variety of purposes, from measuring food portions to ensuring that goods are being sold at the correct weight. 

In this blog, we take a look at the history of weighing scales and some of the most important innovations that have taken place in this field over the years!

Ancient Measurements

The most ancient relics of a weighing scale have been found in the Indus River Valley, Pakistan, dating back to around 2,000 B.C. near present-day Pakistan. 

As trade developed during these times, merchants discovered a need to assess the value of items such as crops, textiles, and gold in order to trade for their stuff.

Here, the devices were simple, yet effective, and relied on balancing goods; two plates were attached to an overhead beam which was fixed on a central pole. 

Then, measurements were taken by placing the objects on one plate and weight stones on the other until an equilibrium was reached.  

Although this early form of weighing scales proved to be very accurate, it was not without its problems – large objects could not easily be weighed and there was always a risk that the object being measured would move or disturb the balance.

The Beam Scale

The beam scale is thought to have been invented in ancient Greece, sometime between 600 and 300 BC. 

Simply, this type of weighing scale consisted of two beams placed horizontally across each other with a fulcrum (or pivot point) in the middle. 

The object to be weighed was placed on one end of the beam and weights were added to the other until equilibrium was reached. 

And the position of the weights along the beam was then used to calculate the weight of the object being measured.

Positively, one of the main advantages of this type of weighing scale is that it could be used to weigh large objects such as sacks of grain or even people! 

And the beam scale continued to be used for many centuries and was only replaced by more accurate devices in the 19th century.

The Balance Scale

The balance scale is a more sophisticated version of the beam scale and is thought to have been invented by Archimedes, a famous Greek mathematician, around 212 BC. 

Briefly speaking, this type of weighing scale consisted of two pans (or dishes) placed on either end of a lever which was balanced on a central fulcrum. 

The object being weighed was placed in one pan and weights were added to the other until equilibrium was reached.

On the plus side, this could be used to measure very small objects, as well as large ones. 

The disadvantage, however, is that it was not very accurate and could be easily disturbed. 

The Steelyard Scale

The steelyard scale is a type of balance scale which was invented in Europe during the Middle Ages (between 500 and 1500 AD). 

And this type of weighing scale consisted of a beam with a movable counterweight on one end and a suspended weight on the other; the object being weighed was placed on the beam and the counterweight was moved until equilibrium was reached. 

Then, the position of the counterweight was then used to calculate the weight of the object being measured.

As with the other devices, this scale could only be used to weigh small objects and was eventually replaced by more accurate devices in the 18th century.

The Platform Scale

The platform scale is a type of weighing scale which consists of a flat surface on which objects are placed to be weighed.

It is thought to have been invented in China during the Tang Dynasty (618-905 AD), and is still used today and is the most common type of weighing scale.

Unlike the other scales, this one can be used to weigh large objects, but whilst the platform scale continues to be used in many industries, it has been largely replaced by more accurate devices in recent years.

Digital Weighing Scales

Digital weighing scales are a type of electronic weighing scale which use digital displays to show the weight of an object being measured.

First invented in Japan in 1965, digital scales have since become the most popular type of weighing scale worldwide.

Today, a strain gauge load cell is the weight transducer in digital industrial scales.The load cell is a metal block that bends in a similar manner to a spring when subjected to force, and when the strain is removed, like a spring, the load cell reverts back to its original form.

Typically, several strain gauges are attached to the load cell and these flat metal folds make up these resistors. When the load cell bends and the strain gauges are stretched, their resistance varies in accordance with the amount of force being applied to the load cell. 

Simply, strain gauge output is sent to an ADC (analog-to-digital converter), which converts it to a final weight value.

If you’d like to know more, please contact us today.

Take a look at our Industrial Weighing Solutions here in the meantime.

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The post Weighing Scales: A History of Innovation appeared first on Weightru.

The construction industry is an extremely dynamic environment to operate in.

And a construction site used a lot of different heavy machinery on a daily basis, but this poses some challenges when it comes to measurement and weighing systems.

Many activities include the transportation of different materials, back and forth from different points within the site area or other locations.

But, when loads are transported from one construction site to another, it’s not possible to maintain a metered control of the vehicle’s weight.

Consequently, this can result in either overloading or unloading of a truck, which can lead to higher maintenance and fuel costs, as well as accelerate the wear and tear of a vehicle.

As such, it’s important to implement advanced, efficient weighing solutions that can help you bring control and manage safe load transportation.

Before we look at why construction businesses need weigh scales, let’s look at 3 popular weighing solutions:

1. Onboard Truck Scales

When it comes to keeping a track of materials, onboard truck scales are the biggest time-saver.

Simply, these scales are designed to collect all the data you need, which helps you to keep a track of what’s coming in, and what’s going out of your construction site.

Positively, this helps to reduce the potential of any unnecessary waste, as you have all the information you need to make informed, operational decisions.

Once configured, they are compatible with any loading system and are designed to handle various weights and material types in different weather conditions.

2. Portable Truck Scales

Portable truck scales are super beneficial due to their durability and weight.

And this enables the user to transport, assemble and dismantle them with ease.

Also known as axle weighers, these can be used in any type of terrain, as well as be customised to suit the nature of activities carried out and meet specific requirements.

For maximum precision, they can be integrated with software, delivering accurate measurements and boosting operational efficiency. 

3. Load Volume Scanner

A load volume scanner is an efficient tool that uses laser technology to weigh goods.

To put it briefly, it translates a high definition 3D image of a truck’s load into weight with the help of software, and generates real-time results,

Plus, the user can detect any shift of the load in the truck bed, as the scanner is effective in managing design of a load.

Advantages of Using Weigh Scales in Construction Industries

Here are 5 reasons why businesses in the construction industry should invest in a weighbridge.

1. Safer Operations

Trucks used for transporting goods, such as rubble, equipment, fue, machinery etc. need to be loaded properly.

Improper loading of vehicles can lead to uneven distribution, and this can result in fatal accidents on the road or cause damage to the terrain.

In other words, scales allow for safer operations, especially when transporting goods from construction sites.

2. Reduce Maintenance and Fuel Costs

When vehicles are overloading, this can cause parts to wear and tear more quickly.

However, it also results in a higher fuel consumption for a business.

As such, measuring loads accurately before they hit the road will ensure the vehicle is not overloaded, and save on maintenance and fuel costs in the long run.

3. Remain Compliant

By using scales, you can ensure your operations remain compliant with rules and regulations and avoid any hefty fines.

In addition, this helps construction businesses to keep the weight of a vehicle within the limits, ensuring safety for the driver and other people on the road.

4. Control and Manage Fleet

As mentioned earlier, a construction site can operate numerous vehicles and machinery at once, and transport goods between different sites.

Managing a big fleet of vehicles is not an easy task and requires timely attention to the maintenance of vehicles.

Luckily, weighing solutions can help control large fleets by monitoring their daily loading pattern.

5. Increase Credibility

As scales allow you to measure and monitor the amount of incoming raw materials and the exact output, this means you can accurately calculate the amount of resources needed for the next order.

As a result, you’ll be able to foresee the amount of taxes and waste disposal fees that could be levied.

Precision, in terms of operations and data, establishes credibility – not only in the project but for your business on the whole.

The Bottom Line

The choice of which weighing solution is required on your construction site largely depends on the nature of your business and its requirement.

With advancements in technology, you can either select from a wide range of options or even get them customised.

On the whole, it doesn’t matter how big or small your requirement is, scales are incredibly important in the construction industry to achieve optimal output in your business, both operationally and financially.

For more information, please get in touch today.

In the meantime, take a look at our Vehicle Weighing Solutions here.

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The post The Importance of a Weigh Scales in Construction Industries appeared first on Weightru.

Accurate and reliable industrial weighing scales are essential for many businesses to ensure safe and successful operations.

But as is the case with most technology, after a while, scales can become less reliable and begin to not display readings properly, or provide inaccurate ones.

And this is especially true if they have not been properly handled, maintained, or stored, or regularly serviced and calibrated.

To avoid any serious consequences from poor readings, here are 5 tell tale signs your industrial weighing scales may need replacing.

1. Inconsistent Readings 

Inconsistent readings are the first obvious sign it’s time to replace your industrial weighing scales.

When objects with an average weight basis begin to show a significant change in weight, it’s probably safe to say, your scale has an issue.

To check this out, take an object and place it onto the load cell a few times. You should expect to see the same reading each time.

However, if this is not the case, your scales have a mechanical problem, which may require a quick calibration – so check this first before making any assumptions.

However, if the issue does not resolve after resetting the calibration mechanism, you’ll need to replace the scales.

2. Inaccurate Readings Between Scales

Inaccurate readings between scales mean when you take the same object and weigh it on a different scale that is known to be accurate and well calibrated.

Usually, this problem lies with the load cells of the inaccurate scale. Like the previous point, you should calibrate the scale first (this should be done every few months as good practice).

But if the reading is still off, it could be that one of the cells has been shock loaded and therefore causes some damage; i.e. an object may have been dropped from a significant height.

Furthermore, this could happen as a result of the scales being overloaded, meaning the load cells have bent beyond their capacity and therefore resulting in inaccurate readings.

3. Display Readability 

When the scale display reader becomes difficult to see, it’s probably time to replace your scales.

Consequently, this occurs when sections of the display are burned out, or there could be a problem with the power source.

However, if you’re unable to change the batteries or power source cable, it could be a sign of a bigger malfunction or that the scales have broken.

Moreover, if there aren’t any objects on the scale, make sure the display shows a reading of zero. If this isn’t the case, it may signal your scales need calibrating or even replaced.

4. Unstable Readings

When a scale is functioning properly, once an item is on the load cell, after a brief moment of assessment by the scales, a final weight should be displayed as your reading.

By unstable readings, we mean when the reading doesn’t hold steady when the object is placed on the scale.

Sometimes, this is referred to as “drifting”, which means the numbers are moving up or down and do not hold still when the object is on the scale.

Typically, the scale will signal an electronic malfunction in the digital indicator.

One of the biggest culprits for this is when during certain times of the year there is low humidity, which causes static buildup on load cells.

As the humidity changes, the static charge in the air does too. And the weight controller is looking for changes in input voltage, which static can affect and therefore cause the reading to drift.

5. Rust or Corrosive Damage

This is a mechanical issue that is seen in moisture or other corrosive-intense environments.

When a scale’s parts or load cells come into contact with different chemicals or water, it can cause the components to degrade and malfunction.

In addition, if the scales are moved to and from extreme temperatures, it can affect the internal mechanisms which can result in inaccurate measures too.

As such, if you notice any signs of rust or degradation, it may be time to replace your scales.

The Bottom Line

Deciding if it’s time to replace your industrial weighing scale can be a challenge, but if you’re constantly provided with unstable, unclear, and inaccurate readings, that’s a strong indication for doing so. The same applies if your scales look visibly damaged.

If you’ve noticed any of the above signs, you’ll want to replace your scales so you can have peace of mind you’re not going against any regulations required if your business is dependent on recording weight, i.e. freight

The good news is, the above signs can take some time before they appear. And so, if you notice any problems, no matter how small they seem, it’s best to contact a repair service right away before it becomes worse and makes your scales inoperative.

Want to know more? Get in touch today.

Take a look at our Vehicle Weight Checker solutions in the meantime.

You may also like:

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2. 3 Factors Affecting The Accuracy of Your Weigh Scales
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The post 5 Tell Tale Signs Your Industrial Scales Need Replacing appeared first on Weightru.

We weigh a lot of things for a lot of different reasons.

Chances are, if you’re on a diet, you stand on scales every so often to check your breakfast. Or, you may want to weigh out your food before you cook.

Similarly, if you’re sending a parcel, you’ll probably get it weighed at the Post Office or you may buy loose grocery products based on their weight and sometimes it’s to check a vehicle load to ensure your compliance with road regulations.

With so much of our world driven by weight, the accuracy of weighing is very important.

Have you ever stopped to wonder, how do weighing scales even work?

Well, let’s take a closer look!

Weight and Mass

Before we start, let’s just be clear about the difference between weight and mass.

Generally speaking, when we’re referring to weight, we actually mean mass. Whether it’s measured in kilograms, stones, pounds or ounces, these are all units of mass and not weight.

The difference is, mass is the amount of matter an object is made from whereas weight is the measurement of how much the force of gravity acts on a given amount of mass and so it should be measured in newtons.

Sounds a little confusing, but weight is the gravitational interaction between objects that have mass and mass is how much “stuff” is in an object.

Anyhow, it’s acceptable to refer to weights in mass units, (e.g. kilograms) because any mass on Earth converts to weight the same way anyway. You don’t hear people saying, “I weigh 700 newtons”, but scientifically speaking, they should!

How Do Weighing Scales Work?

Traditionally, scales consisted of two plates or bowls that were suspended at the same distance from the middle. 

Then, a series of different weights were used to make the two sides the same level. For example, you would add objects that you knew the weight of so you could work out the weight of the item on the other side. Sometimes known as beam balance scales, this required manual work by adding counterweights until the beam was completely horizontal.

Given technological advancements, we are now able to measure weight digitally. 

Modern Weighing Scales

Almost all digital scales used today, be it for medical, industrial, retail or personal purposes, work through devices known as load cells which record the weight. A load cell is a force transducer, which basically converts force into an electrical signal that can be measured.

Essentially, when any weight is placed onto the scale, this causes the load cell to bend a little, and that triggers the electrical signal that runs through the load cell to change. 

In other words, as force is applied, the load cell increases and the electrical signal changes accordingly. The signal then is read by an electronic device and transforms it into a digital weight value which is then displayed for the reading. And, no matter how complex the scale and weight indicator is, they all work in similar ways.

Load Cells

Differences between the types of scales and how they work are dependent on the type of load cells in the device.

Here are three main types:

1. Strain Gauge

This is the most popular type of load cell used in industrial settings, as it is highly accurate, versatile and cost-effective.

In terms of structure, the load cell has a metal body, usually aluminium or steel, where strain gauges have been fixed to it. These metals are used as they’re sturdy and have minimal elasticity, which gives it a spring element; when force is applied on the load cell, the spring element slightly changes shape but returns to its original form – unless overloaded. As this change happens, the strain gauge also deforms and this is measured in voltage. And the change in voltage is proportional to the amount of force applied to the load cell, therefore calculates weight from the output.

Otherwise known as Wheatstone Bridge configuration: an electrical circuit which measures resistance and gives accurate measurements when it is bent under the weight of an object.

2. 2. Pneumatic Load Cells

These cells deal with air pressure and are designed to automatically regulate the balance. How it works is air pressure is applied to one of the diaphragm and then it passes through the tube placed at the bottom of the load call. The pressure gauge is attached to the load call to measure how much pressure is inside, which is used to determine how heavy the object is. Then, the pressure gauge converts this into an electrical signal to give a reading.

3. Hydraulic Load Cells

These cells work by using a liquid like water or oil, for example.

Scales that have hydraulic load cells work like pneumatic load cells, but rather than using air they use a piston and a pressurised fluid.

When an object is placed on the scale, the movement of the piston causes an increase in pressure and once calibrated, you can take an accurate measure of weight.

If you’d like to know more, please get in touch today.

Check our Vehicle Weight Checker solutions in the meantime.

You may also like:

1. 3 Factors Affecting the Accuracy of your Weigh Scales
2. 5 Benefits of Modular Weighbridges
3. Choosing The Right Axle Weighing Solution for your Business

The post How do Weighing Scales Work? appeared first on Weightru.

If your business depends on vehicles being weight compliant, then having vehicle weighing systems that provide accurate readings is critical.

Be it a modular weighbridge or a portable axle pads, these scales need to work accurately to avoid potential fines or in extreme cases, fatal accidents.

Unfortunately, even scales that are of the highest quality can be affected by a number of different factors which can affect accuracy.

So, being aware of these can help you spot any external factors that may be playing a part, as it could indicate whether or not you need a new weighing system.

Here are 3 factors that could be affecting the accuracy of your weighing scales.

1. Load Cell Accuracy 

A load cell is one of the most important components in any digital weighing scale: scales cannot function without it.

Essentially, when an item (in this case a vehicle) is placed on a scale, the load cell bends and it’s this movement which measures the weight. Therefore, if the load cell is not working properly, this is going to cause inaccurate readings.

There are a few things that can affect the load cell, these are 3 of the most common:

• Response Time: this is how long it takes the load cell to stabilise and give a reading. Whilst it doesn’t sound like an issue, those businesses that are fast-paced and need to quickly get vehicles on the road, their readings may not be as reliable as they’ve not waited long enough for the accurate weight.
• Creep: if the vehicle is left on the scales for too long, creep can start to take effect. This is the change in the measured weight if the load cell stays under pressure for too long.
• Temperature Changes: if the temperature where the scales are placed is constantly changing, this can cause errors in measures. For example, increase in temperature can cause load cells to expand, thus providing inaccurate readings. 

2. Environmental Factors 

Anything that surrounds the scale that can cause a negative effect on its weighing ability is an environmental factor.

Here are a few environmental factors that can affect weight scale’s accuracy:

• Vibration: if there is any other equipment near the scales that vibrate, ventilation systems for example, this can lead to inaccurate readings as the load cell cannot measure the weight properly.
• Dirt: if scales are not regularly cleaned, a buildup of dirt can actually increase the weight when objects are placed on the scale: only the load cell should carry the weight but if there’s a significant amount of debris, this makes it impossible to weigh the object alone.
• Wind: airflow will affect the weighing scales: the more airflow, the pressure that is put on your scale which affects how the weight is measured. 
• Shock Loading: suddenly adding heavy materials onto the scales will increase the force placed upon it. And if this exceeds the weight limit, it can cause damage to the load cells which will therefore give inaccurate readings.

3. Interference 

As load cells send an electrical signal to the scale’s digital indicator, any kind of interference during the process will result in inaccurate readings.

The common types of interference include:

• Moisture: it’s normal for condensation or moisture to build up, however it can affect the load sensor or cables: if these get too wet then the electrical inputs and outputs will not be able to send accurate signals.
• Temperature: a rise in temperature will cause the voltage in wires to drop, which can mean the controller displays results that are actually different to the load cell’s output.
• Radio Frequency Interference: (RFI), is an electrical noise source that can affect weighing accuracy, i.e. lightning or two way radios will affect the electric signals transmitted from the scale and show incorrect readings.

The Bottom Line

No matter what type of weighing system you have, it’s important to carry out routine checks to ensure there are no external factors that are causing your scale to give inaccurate readings.

Otherwise you open yourself to potentially fatal risks.

If you’d like to know, please get in touch today.

In the meantime, check our Vehicle Weight Checker solutions.

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1. Commercial Vehicles: Inspection and Maintenance
2. Choosing the Right Axle Weighing Solution for your Business
3. 5 Benefits of Modular Weighbridges

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