Weighbridge Maintenance Checklist-Tips for Weighbridge Maintenance

 

Weighbridges have to be maintained in proper condition if they have to give accurate results and there are some standard operating procedures (SOPs) to follow.

Schedules

Daily, weekly and monthly schedules can be followed so that there is continuous monitoring of the build-up of debris and water. This helps in removal of obstructions beneath the bridge. It helps in providing clearance between the weighbridge and the ground.

Daily Procedures
  • Look for dust or other garbage around the weighbridge.
  • Clean mud or other unwanted material found with water jets or air jets.
  • Keep the load cells and other important parts clean and free of dust.

Weekly Procedures

The end-middle-end test should be conducted every week. It helps to find out any internal obstruction that cannot be normally detected. To do this procedure, keep the weight loaded truck first on the starting of the bridge, next at the middle and thirdly at the end.

Monthly Tests
  • Begin with an end-middle-end test
  • Clean the weighbridge with a high-pressure water jet for removal of any debris or slurries.
  • When cleaning the underside of the platform, avoid hitting the load cells and prevent water ingress to the junction box.
  • Opt for weighbridge calibration procedure
  • Inspection of weighbridge to check for damage of platform, load cells or any other parts.
  • Compare the results with the previous data obtained.

Common Problems

The common issues related to weighbridge are water logging especially when used in manufacturing, mining sites. The load cells may be out of position due to overload of vehicles. The other common problem is with compacted mud which reduces the movement of the weighbridge. Ensure that the traffic lights, cameras, displays and barrier gates are functioning properly without any hindrance. After every rainy season, the weighbridge should be inspected and cleaned thoroughly. Parts have to be lubricated and it may require technical support from the manufacturer.
Check all cables and connectors, as well as do calibration testing for compliance with the local authorities.

Whether it is pit mounted weighbridges or surface mounted weighbridges, the most important checks have to be conducted underneath the weighbridge as dust or build-up of mud can affect the performance and functionality of the machine.

Some weighbridges may have a T shaped rubber insert to prevent contaminants from entering the pit. It is fixed between the main platform and the surrounding surface. It is better to remove and clean it periodically.

Ensure that the weighbridge display shows zero before the vehicle drives into the platform. Also check the movement of the platform. If it has moved excessively, technical support may be required.
When using water or air jet cleaning ensure that no damage is caused to load cells.


Benefits of Maintenance

The benefits of routine or periodic checks on the weighbridge include-improved accuracy, fewer engineer callout and reliability of performance. It will reduce the chances of malfunctioning and save costs on repairs. Weighbridge cleaning is a highly skilled job which requires trained personnel and equipment. Although routine maintenance can be done inhouse, ensure that the cleaning is properly done to prevent damage to load cells and components. Weigh bridges functioning in harsh environments such as mining sites may require professional help and such periodic checks and cleaning can be done in Spring or Autumn. Professional cleaning companies use specialized equipment and trained staff for carrying out the operations that will ensure longer life the for weighing system

If you require help or assistance for weighbridge maintenance and repairs, Essae Digitronics can provide the professional support and guidance.

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