Almost all bridge scales have components in common, which work together to measure weight. It is important for a buyer to know these components well to determine the bridge tipper best suited to meet their needs. There are some concepts that you should know before selecting a bridge tipper for your business:
Foundations: A bridge tipper can be installed below ground level, so that the road surface is at ground level. It can also be installed on the ground with ramps, thus allowing the trucks to enter and exit the bridge scales. Whatever the type of permanent installation, you need concrete foundations.
Platform: Also called the bridge-bridge deck, it is the structure that creates the road surface for trucks. The platform is usually composed of modular sections that are assembled together to cover the desired length. The modules can be manufactured with a tear-resistant sheet surface or designed to be filled with concrete, creating a concrete surface.
Load cells: These are the cells that measure the weight on the bridge tipper. Modern bridge scales use load cells as elements integrated into the structure. This means that the platform is supported on the load cells. There are a few different types of load cells, and they are usually placed at the angles of each module on the platform.
Indicator: Also called the weighing terminal, the weight indicator is the control panel of the bridge tipper. This shows the weight value to the operator and often serves as a connection point to other peripherals of the bridge tipper.
Cables: Cell information is transmitted via cables. These may be susceptible to attacks by rodents. We advise the use of cables with metallic rodent protection, offered in Barbal ® TC cells.
Connection box: The cables from each cell are routed to the connection box, from where a single cable goes out towards the indicator. In sporadic cases, it is possible for a bridge weigher to have more than one connection box, depending on the number of cells present. Some newer systems do not require the use of a connection box, as with Barbal ® TC-DC digital cells.
Information management: Handwritten weighing coupons have given way to printed forms. Truck entry and exit management software plays a key role for companies, small or large, allowing to accelerate weighing times and reduce the risk of error.
Accessories: They can be road controls, such as barriers and traffic lights. The weight repeaters, which show the weight at a distance for viewing by the truck driver. Special equipment, such as cameras and detectors, can also be incorporated into the bridge tipper. In addition, some companies explore new self-service and automation features.
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