Honestly, one can feel quite overwhelmed when they are faced with the decision of choosing a weighing system. There are so many different types of weighing scales available in the market. The scale that you choose will determine if your operational processes are smooth, efficient and profitable.
Onboard weighing systems have revolutionized the truck and trailer businesses. These scales are able to give accurate data that can be recorded and stored for future analysis. Weighbridges record the gross and net weight of the truck; they are not as accurate as the onboard truck scales and so the truck owners end up overpaying surcharges.
Factors to Consider Before Buying an Onboard Weighing Scale
Many companies base their search on cost alone; which is not right. In this article, we will focus on the main factors that you should consider before buying an online weighing system for your company.
- The Purpose of the Scale
Different features and applications on the scale enable it to carry out different functions. For this reason, it is important for you to determine exactly what you will be using the scale for.
- The Environment
What environmental conditions and geographic location will the scale be used in? Determining the answers to these two questions will help you narrow down what type of scale you need. Make sure that the scale you choose aligns to the capabilities and attributes you are looking for.
- Capacity and Range
Establish the lowest and the highest weight that the scale can measure. These figures will be useful in determining the capacity of the highest weight that the scale can measure.
- Accuracy and Precision
These two terms do not mean the same. Here is the difference: an accurate scale always shows the correct reading while a precise scale always shows the same reading over and over again. The problem is, the reading on a precise scale is not necessarily correct.
Getting an onboard weighing system that is suited to the environment its place in will result in more accurate results. It is expected that the scale will be exposed to elements of nature or varying temperatures. These should not have any adverse effects on the scale’s accuracy
Accuracy helps maintain a good reputation with your customers when you always provide them with correct information. The common terms used to describe accuracy and precision are linearity, repeatability, reproducibility, validation, ingress protection (IP), and response time.
- Calibration
Calibration can be defined as the process of verifying the accuracy of a scale by conducting extensive tests and comparing the data. This process is helpful in identifying any fault the scale might have and correcting it.
Generally, scales tend to lose their calibrations especially when they’re moved around a lot. Even if it is not moved around, the scale will lose calibration over time as it is put into use.
Some signs that might give you a hint about a faulty scale that needs calibrations are:
- The scale shows incorrect predefined weight; when you apply a load of known weight, the reading does not match with the expected weight
- The scale does not show zero reading
- The scale has loose parts