‘Efficiency’ is the key to any successful company in the transportation industry. Proper operation of companies that require loading and transporting of their resources starts with the precise weighing of truck loads. Efficient ways of measuring truck weights impact the overall functions and profitability of businesses. Time is of the essence in transportation, and an efficient technique of measuring can save a lot of money and time for businesses during the transit of materials. On-time delivery of goods is the most important as every minute counts in the transportation industry. It is a matter of every drop of fuel or inch of space. Weighing trucks is one of the processes, which if done with more efficiency will greatly improve and increase profitability of the businesses. Properly calibrated weight scales reduce operational costs, safeguard worker health, and ensure smooth freight delivery, help in following rules and regulations of traffic. An efficient technique of measuring depends on the type of industry for which truck scales are used and their operational needs.
Slow-Weigh-In-Motion (SWIM)
Slow-Weigh-In-Motion or SWIM enables trucks to be weighed when still moving at slow speeds, usually along sensor pads of the ramp. While driving over the sensor pads the truck does not halt, and accurate readings of the weight display while the vehicle is in motion. Such weigh-in-motion systems are usually incorporated into the roads or at particular weigh stations or checkpoints.
Benefits of SWIM:
No Stoppage: Trucks do not require a complete halt for weight measurements. The main benefit and the specialty that separates them from their other counterparts is that the vehicle can be weighted in motion, which means it is slowly driven over the ramp to get precise weight readings on screen. This is a fast method of weighing, and it does not disrupt the flow and speed of traffic.
Real-Time Data: Real-time weighing data is obtained to optimize load planning and distribution.
Safety: This technique of weighing chops down the issue of truck queuing for weighing hence helping in proper traffic management, reducing the chances of accidents occurring, and saving a lot of time.
Portable Weighing Systems
Portable truck scales, or wheel weighers, are used for truck weighing. The truck is driven over single scales and stops when a wheel rests on a scale. They are then weighed. Unlike in motion weighing technique, this method takes time to process the weight and is one of the slowest methods used, but the readings are accurate. These scales can be instantly assembled and dismantled due to their small size. Portable scales are popular because of their portable nature as they can be moved from one place to another according to the weighing requirements of the businesses.
Benefits of Portable Weighing Systems:
Versatility: Portable scales are known for their versatility, they can be moved and installed quickly saving a lot of time and fuel needed to reach a weighing station or checkpoint.
Cost-Effective: It eliminates the necessity of permanent scales at most sites. Fixed or permanent scales are more expensive to install, which is a big deal for many businesses, portable scales eradicate this problem with their flexible usability.
Timely Measurements: These scales provide accurate real-time weight data on the go.
Onboard Weighing Systems
These weighing systems are installed onboard the vehicle. They are fitted directly onto the trucks, load cells are incorporated on the axles or the suspension of the truck. This helps in measuring weight instantly without locating a weigh station or checkpoint. The screen in installed on the dashboard of the truck from where accurate readings of the measurement can be obtained.
Benefits of Onboard Weighing Systems:
Instant Measurement: The drivers are able to measure weight instantly to check any case of overloading on the go. This reduces the time to reach a weigh station or assemble a portable system.
Load Optimization: Helps in loading an adequate amount of cargo, optimizing resources, and staying within the weight limits.
Prevents Overloading: Prevents overloading and helps in avoiding heavy penalties due to it.
Axle Scales Or Weighbridge Systems
These are the most classic techniques for measuring truck loads. Weighbridges are huge in size and need a fixed space for installation. Businesses trust these systems because of their robust build and accuracy in weight measurement. These scales are installed in weighing stations or manufacturing plants.
Benefits of Weighbridge Systems:
Precision: These scales ensure accurate weight measurement for better invoicing and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Robust Built: These scales are the most stable and dependable, due to their durability and can stay functional for longer periods.
High Capacity: They can accommodate very heavy weights.
Versatility: Can accommodate vehicles of different sizes, with heavy loads without taking any damage.
Volume Load Scanners
Volume or weight load scanners involve using scanning technology to take the actual measurement of the volume of load and subsequent determination of its weight through the density of the materials in transit. These systems are the most modern and work with the help of lasers which scan the loads.
Benefits of Volume Load Scanners:
Non-Intrusive: Reducing the physical contact of the load and the wear and tear of the equipment. These devices require less maintenance and thus save expenses on repairs and regular maintenance.
Speed: This method of measurement is fast and needs ground contact with the vehicle, one scan and you are good to go.
Accuracy: Though this method does not involve accommodating loads on scales does not mean they are not accurate. Their accuracy is why these scales are preferred by many businesses.
These are some of the widely used techniques for weighing trucks. The method most beneficial to your business will always depend on the type of industry such as agriculture, transport and logistics, mining, manufacturing, construction, etc. Operational needs are one of the main factors that influence the technique most suitable for maximizing the efficiency of your business operations and maximizing profitability and compliance with the rules and regulations. Proper weighing technique impacts the growth of the business by assuring accurate measurement and timely delivery of goods.