A weighbridge is a set of a scale used to weigh heavy/bulky items and get the accurate weight measurement. It’s a set of scale which is mounted on a concrete surface. And the weight of the vehicle is displayed on electronic or digital monitor.
Before hiring or purchasing a weighbridge from truck weighbridges manufacturers, you should know about the different available options. And it’s also essential to understand the ins and outs of weighing equipment.
Generally, there are two major types of weighbridge: pit mounted weighbridge and surface mounted weighbridge (above ground). Depending on your situations and the environment in which you intend to use the weighbridge, one or the other can be better for you.
I’ve created this short guide to help you make the right decision and get the weighbridge which is right for you
Table of Contents
Surface Mounted (Above Ground) Weighbridge
With the name above the ground weighbridge it’s clear that the bridge is placed on the surface of the ground and it doesn’t require a pit for installation.
It is suitable for companies who don’t want or are not able to construct a pit. And companies who only require the weighing equipment temporarily also prefers surface mounted weighbridge. As it is cost-effective compared to pit mounted counterparts and requires less on-site preparation.
However, with all the benefits, surface weighbridge has some drawback, due to their larger footprint, and elevated positioning, it’s difficult for vehicles to move around the platform, and if the area is small, it will get even worst. But if you have larger space for weighbridge installment, it won’t be a bid deal.
Pit Mounted (In-ground) Weighbridge
As the name suggests, pit mounted (in-ground) weighbridge is placed inside a dedicated pit, which is level with the surrounding surfaces.
It requires extensive site preparation and reinforcing, making them the most expensive option initially, but it can be very beneficial for companies looking for a longer-term solution. You won’t need to relocate weighbridges, which will save you time and money.
Moreover, once the weighbridge is installed it will not obstruct any vehicles or people, and there will be free travel across the surface at all times.
As pit mounted weighbridge is located inside a hole, these weighbridges will not require safety ramps or rails to be install. It makes the platform safer and easier to use; there is less to consider once the weighbridge is installed.
Portable Weighbridge
As mentioned above, there are generally two types of weighbridges. But, with the advancement of technology and demand for fast and accurate weighing equipment, portable train weighbridges are gaining its popularity among the weighing companies.
They’re a variation on the design of a surface-mounted weighbridge, an accurate, portable and cost-effective option for weighing.
You can install portable weighbridge in around 10 minutes and comes with a built-in battery with an external charger. It can be Install both wired and wireless.
So, Which Weighbridge Is Best For You and Your Business?
If you have a larger organization and weighing is a fundamental part of your business daily work, then pit mounted weighbridges will be the best choice. It will make weighbridge easier to use and workaround, along with maximizing the speed of your service.
For smaller companies, which doesn’t need to weigh the load frequently or who are searching for temporary weighbridge solution ( between six months and two years), surface mounted weighbridge will be the best option. It is easy to install and cost lower compared to pit mounted weighbridge.
And finally, Portable weighbridges can be advantageous for any growing company, as you can easily weigh the vehicles at your preferred place and can be installed quickly and easily.
About the Author
Christian Taylor is a mechanical and electronic weighing engineer at Trakblaze – one of the leading manufacturer and supplier of weighbridges, balancing systems and scales for the rail, road, mining and aviation industry. You can contact him if you need any sorts of suggestion regarding weighbridges.