Weighbridges are platform scales used to measure heavy equipment, vehicles such as heavy-duty trucks and trailers, livestock, and other things. Weighbridges can be classified based on the purpose it serves, modes of operation, and type of construction. The common types of weighbridges are Above Ground Weighbridges, Semi-pit Weighbridge, Fully In-ground Weighbridge, and Portable Weighbridges.
The components which define the structure of the weighbridge are its foundation, platform, load cells, terminal, cables, and other accessories to facilitate the weighing process, such as software support and automation. Weighbridges are long-term investments. Hence you need to make an informed choice to choose the right equipment. Before installing a weighbridge, you need to consider the availability of space, portability needs, and its frequency of use. Moreover, to choose a reliable weighbridge supplier machine, determine the software and hardware design, operational efficiency, accuracy, and stability of your weighbridge before you put it to use.
Weighbridges can optimize the potential of your business. Hence you need to choose a suitable vendor who can provide the best solution. Here are ten things to consider while selecting a weighbridge supplier.
Business Needs
Weighbridges must suit the type of industrial vehicle that is in place in your business. If you do not use heavy motor vehicles, a lighter weighbridge or axle weighing pads will do the work. However, for more extensive and heavy load vehicles, you need heavy weighbridges to support the load without faltering.
Customization
Choose a vendor who is willing to understand your business requirements comprehensively. A one-size-fits-all design approach will not cater to your needs. Hence the weighbridge supplier should offer the flexibility to customize the weighbridge as per your end-use. It involves customizing various aspects such as weighbridge type, size, capacity, load cells, and even paint finish. Ensure that the load cells are durable and of standard quality. It should have a robust design to comply with your vehicle’s weight. The vendor should provide a reliable assembly for the customized load cells.
Measure On- or Off-Site
Identify if your business will benefit from a weighbridge on or off-site. The quantity and frequency of shipping will have a significant impact on your decision-making process. For miners, quarries, recycling centers, and other industrial requirements, having a weighbridge on-site is beneficial. If you do not ship products frequently, you can consider a cheaper alternative. The weighbridge should provide a financial benefit to your business. Hence, you need to accordingly choose a vendor who can provide a suitable on or off-site solution.
Expert Advice
You can also hire an expert who can help you outline how you can use the weighbridge now and in the future. Seeking expert advice will enable you to bring valuable insights to choose the suitable weighbridge that will maximize your business potential.
Service And Support
Ask your vendor if they will extend sustainable service and maintenance to minimize downtime at any point in time. Weighbridge downtime can affect your business operations. Ask your vendor if they have user-friendly service plans to provide immediate support to the weighbridge to maximize its uptime. They can provide you with nationwide service to quickly get it covered at the affiliated service station.
Build Quality
Weighbridges are used in rough working conditions and harsh climates. While selecting a weighbridge, ensure that the supplier will provide equipment that can sustain any adverse condition with the minimum casualty. The weighbridge should use a top-quality load for improved longevity. You can ask the vendor to provide information about the manufacture to confirm the use of Plasma Cutting, MIG Welding, NDT Testing, Shot Blasting, Protective Coating, Epoxy Finishing for improved build quality. The weighbridge quality should be corrosion-resistant.
Design
Select a weighbridge that meets your site conditions and your operational goals. It should be calibrated with stringent quality standards and tested comprehensively for each system before delivery. Weighbridges with poor design quality can lead to loadcell failure or inaccuracy in weight readings. It can lead to a flawed drainage system or the build-up of spoils around load cells. Choose a weighbridge with sturdy design and build quality.
Manufacturing Process
Ask your supplier to provide necessary certifications to ensure that the weighbridge manufacture and design align with the recognized ISO standards.
Experience
Choose a weighbridge supplier who has sufficient experience and expertise in this field. You can approach their client base for feedbacks to ensure that they will provide reliable support and service.
The Total Cost Of Ownership
While selecting a weighbridge, a low initial price may attract you, but it may not cover the entire weighbridge lifetime. A supplier who can optimize the weighbridge use through fraud prevention, futureproofed plans, and other security solutions is a more viable option. However, check the additional charges for these support solutions before purchasing.
To Conclude:
Keep these factors in mind while choosing a weighbridge supplier. The vendor should keep the installation, maintenance, and operation as simple as possible. Investing in a weighbridge for your business can prove hugely beneficial. Hence it is essential to make the right choice.