What Is A Truck Scale Project Timeline

The truck scale Roadmap

The truck scale installation process can seem a bit convoluted when one doesn’t understand all that is involved. The infographic above helps lay out the entire truck scale building process. This article will briefly go over each step in the truck scale building process.

Site Review

The site review is what you do before you ever even begin to break ground and start the construction process. When you are performing a site review you want to do a walkthrough of the build site, noting the possible places to install the scale as well as noting potential pitfalls that could arise at the site. Essentially this step is the initial preliminary step of mapping out the truck scale build.

• Location: Choose a level and stable location for the truck scale. It should be easily accessible for vehicles and convenient for scale operators.

• Foundation: Construct a solid foundation capable of supporting the weight of the scale and the vehicles it will measure. The foundation must be level to ensure accurate readings.

Purchase Scale

This step is where you spec out and make your scale purchase. Depending on which company you decide to go with will determine the delivery time and cost. Once you have secured a delivery date and shipping destination, the next step is to start getting te site prepped.

• Type of Scale: Decide on the type of truck scale based on your specific needs. Common types include pit scales, surface-mounted scales, and portable scales.

• Capacity and Size: Choose a scale with the appropriate capacity and size to accommodate the maximum weight and dimensions of the vehicles that will be weighed.

Set Schedule

Setting the schedule for the truck scale build is where you work with the site manager to get a build schedule into place. Coordinate with the site manager and walk the site and plan which components will be installed in designated locations. This is also the time where you coordinate with the contractor who will be pouring concrete. This step is reserved for setting the schedule for the remainder of the build.

• Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local regulations and requirements for truck scale installation. Compliance with standards such as NTEP (National Type Evaluation Program) is essential for legal trade transactions.

• Permits: Obtain any necessary permits for the installation. This may include zoning permits, environmental permits, and construction permits.

Construction Begins

This is the “breaking ground” portion of the build. In this step is where you start digging the trenches for cables and electronics connecting to the truck scale being installed. Along with digging the trenches, this is also when the pouring of the concrete for the foundation begins as well. Keep in mind that the curing process for the foundation will take 14 days to completely cure.

• Unpacking and Inspection: Carefully unpack all components and inspect them for any damage. Report any issues to the manufacturer immediately.

• Assembly: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembling the scale components. This may involve connecting load cells, installing junction boxes, and securing the scale platform.

• Wiring: Properly connect the electrical components, including load cells, junction boxes, and indicator systems. Ensure that all connections are secure and follow electrical codes.

• Calibration: Calibrate the scale to ensure accurate weight readings. Calibration should be performed by trained technicians using certified test weights.

Scale installation

The scale installation is where all the planning and scheduling comes together. The scale is delivered via tractor trailer to the build site. The scale deck is set into the foundation by a crane. Once the scale is properly set, the team installing the scale will then anchor down the deck and all accompanying wiring and connections. Typically if the deck is a steel deck then the installation process can tak one day to complete. It will be a lot onger (30 days) for a concrete deck.

• Functional Tests: Conduct thorough functional tests to ensure all components are working correctly. This includes testing the indicator, printer (if applicable), and any associated software.

• Performance Validation: Weigh test vehicles with known weights to validate the accuracy and performance of the scale. Adjust as necessary to meet accuracy requirements.

scale calibration

After the scale has been properly installed, it is time to calibrate the scale and do a final systems check. During the calibration phase, the installation team will check to make sure the load cells are measuring the weight and that the scale is properly weighing correctly. After calibration is complete, the team will run final tests on the systems operating the scale.

• Maintenance Plan: Develop a regular maintenance schedule to keep the scale in optimal condition. This includes cleaning, lubrication, and periodic inspections.

• Operator Training: Train operators on proper scale usage, maintenance procedures, and safety protocols. Well-trained operators contribute to the longevity and accuracy of the scale.

conclusion

Installing a truck scale is a complex process that requires careful planning, adherence to regulations, and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a successful installation that meets industry standards and provides accurate weight measurements for your business needs. Regular maintenance and operator training will contribute to the long-term reliability and effectiveness of the truck scale system.

American Scale is your source for industrial scales. Be sure to check out our Learning Hub for in depth articles tackling multiple topics. From scale service and maintenance, to learning how to pick the right scale for you. American Scale has you covered.

Scale Service Cost Guide

Scale Service Cost Guide.

An accurate scale is an essential tool for any company whose revenues are based on the weight of goods entering or exiting a facility. Without scale accuracy, a company can lose thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. On the other hand, the annual maintenance costs for a truck scale can vary anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 annually depending upon what services you are receiving. If you were to consider the potential cost of weighing errors, then you could see how a good maintenance program more than pays for itself, and how at times it can also pay for the cost of the scale. To make sure that your scale maintenance program is most effective, these are components that need to be present to ensure a good program. This article outlines what makes a good scale maintenance program and how much this will generally cost.  

BENEFITS OF HAVING A GOOD SCALE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM.

When setting up a scale maintenance program for your weight operation, you want to think about the long term benefits you will receive when following a good maintenance program. One of the biggest benefits is the fact that you will  have regular scheduled maintenance. Understanding that there is a maintenance program for you to follow will help you better understand your scale’s needs based on frequency of use as well as environment and other factors. When you have a good program, you inevitably build a strong relationship with the service technicians as well as with the scale company itself. Saves down time of vital equipment large/heavy scales cannot easily be transported, so techs can work onsite. Rapid response times provided to critical equipment at your facility helps save potential lost profits by cutting downtime helps you stay organized and up to date with your scale service records.

USING A STATE LICENSED SERVICE PROVIDER

When it comes to getting your scale certified, it cannot be done by a commercial scale company. The state weights and measures organization are able to do that. As long as the scale company is state-licensed and registered, they are able to perform services on your scale. The reasoning for this is because there are specific standards that need to be met according to the state weights and measures organization. Look for companies that have a good standing and provide services to multiple scales in the area. If you go with a service provider who is unlicensed then you run the risk of having improperly serviced equipment along with getting into hot water with the state weights and measures department. It is not recommended to allow a company that is not licensed to service your scale. 

USE STATE-CERTIFIED TEST WEIGHTS FOR CALIBRATION

When going with an established scale service company, they will typically have an entire inventory of test weights tested and certified annually in accordance with state weights and measures standards. They will have test weights for all manner of scales and sizes. Depending on the scale being calibrated or serviced will determine the size of the weights being used. Depending on what is being calibrated or having a load test will determine how much weight you will actually need.

THOROUGH SCALE TESTING

The test should start by determining the length of the platform and the total number of sections along that length. Load points are where weight is transferred from the load to the scale and where scale accuracy is maintained. It is critical that the accuracy of each load point is maintained, so as weight is applied it is transferred evenly.

If a load point or section fails a strain test, then it must be calibrated to conform to requirements by making a mechanical or electronic adjustment. A good scale service company will check and double check for accuracy on each load point.

VISUAL INSPECTION AND REPAIRS

Whenever there is any sort of service performed on a scale, the scale technician will perform a visual inspection of the scale. A thorough scale maintenance program must include regular visual inspection followed by any necessary repairs of issues found. The visual inspection should include scale condition, regulatory conformance, signs of damage and debris buildup, safety, clearance, corrosion, and any electrical conditions. A detailed inspection is the sign of a good scale service company. 

BREAKING DOWN THE COST

When looking at what it will actually cost to set up a scale maintenance program, you have to consider the biggest factors that will affect cost. Below are some of the factors that will affect the cost, along with an average rate that is floating around right now. Distance traveled to perform service. Travel charges are usually based upon zones from the nearest office to the service site location. Depending upon the shop performing the service will determine the overall price. Bench time can range anywhere from $125 upwards of $200 per hour depending on the service and if there will need to be additional repairs for the scale.

Additional parts or travel time depending on the issue at hand. Some scale companies will price based on “zones” instead of price mileage. When thinking about scale service and maintenance, it is good to look at it like servicing your car. If you were to take your car into a dealership or independent mechanic, then you will pay an hourly charge. In some areas, mechanics start out at $150 per hour and go up from there. The same thing can be said about scale service. A good maintenance program will be thorough, and should include a written report documenting test results including both before and after calibration, as well as a summary of finding and recommendations. All of these aforementioned items are essential to having a well documented and maintained scale.  

CLOSING WORDS

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale systems related, including products from the top scale manufacturers. American Scale is your source for industrial scales. Be sure to check out our Learning Hub for in depth articles tackling multiple topics. From scale service and maintenance, to learning how to pick the right scale for you. American Scale has you covered.