Category Archives: Steel Deck Truck Scales

Understanding the Factors That Affect Truck Scale Quotes

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Truck scales are essential pieces of equipment for businesses in industries such as agriculture, mining, solid waste, recycling, logging, and transportation. They provide accurate weight measurements for semi trucks, trailers, and other heavy vehicles, helping businesses to comply with state and federal regulations, optimize logistics, and manage inventory. However, investing in a truck scale is a large expense for many companies, and it’s important to understand the factors that affect truck scale quotes so you can make an informed buying decision.

Understanding the Factors That Affect Truck Scale Quotes

Scale Platform Size

One of the most significant factors that affect truck scale quotes is the scale’s size and capacity. Truck scales come in a range of sizes, from small portable models to large fixed installations, and the cost increases as the scale’s size and capacity increase. Choosing the right scale size and capacity is crucial to avoid overspending on unnecessary features or purchasing a scale that can’t handle your business’s needs.

The majority of truck scales that we see on a regular basis have a weighbridge length around 70′ long, with a few 80′ and 90′ long truck scales as well. Capacity of a standard above ground truck scale is usually around 120,000 lb.

Scale Technology

Another important factor to consider is the scale technology. There are mechanical and electro-mechanical truck scales that are still around… but most customers in the twenty first century are choosing electronic above ground truck scales. You typically can choose from hydraulic load cells, digital load cells, or analog load cells.

Site Prep

The site preparation and installation costs are also significant factors that affect truck scale quotes. An above ground truck scale requires a flat, level surface, a sturdy concrete foundation, and appropriate drainage to ensure accurate measurements and long-term durability. Site preparation can involve excavating, grading, and pouring concrete, which can add to the overall cost. Installation costs will likely include labor, equipment rental, concrete, and transportation, depending on the scale’s size and location. One possible way to save money when purchasing a truck scale is to handle the site prep and concrete foundation yourself.

Scale Manufacturer & Distributor

Another factor that can affect truck scale quotes is the scale manufacturer and the local scale company. Different manufacturers and suppliers offer different products, pricing, warranties, and support services, and it’s important to research and compare multiple options before making a purchase. Many companies offer truck scale buying guides. Some manufacturers may offer different technology, customization options or special features that can add to the cost, while others may have limited availability or longer lead times.

Scale Maintenance

Finally, the maintenance and calibration costs should be considered when calculating the overall cost of a truck scale. Regular maintenance and calibration are essential to keep the scale accurate and reliable, and they can extend the scale’s life and maybe even prevent costly breakdowns every now and then. Maintenance costs may include scale checks and replacement parts and testing and adjusting the scale’s accuracy with certified weights periodically.

Understanding the factors that affect truck scale quotes can be very helpful when you’re in the market to purchase a new truck scale. As you can imagine, scale weighbridge size is a key factor when looking to purchase a truck scale. But other things are important too. Things like load cell technology, site preparation and installation, manufacturer and supplier reputation, and regular maintenance and calibration are also key factors that can affect the cost and overall value of a truck scale.

Should I Buy a Steel Deck Truck Scale or a Concrete Deck Truck Scale?

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Both steel deck truck scales and concrete deck truck scales have their own advantages and disadvantages. So, when you’re asking yourself, should I buy a steel deck truck scale or a concrete deck truck scale, here are some points to consider when deciding between the two:

Steel Deck Truck Scales

Steel deck truck scales are generally more portable and easier to install than concrete deck scales. It’s not uncommon for a steel deck truck scale to be installed and ready to use in one business day. They can be placed on a flat surface and do not usually require any special foundation work. Steel deck truck scales are typically less expensive than concrete deck scales once you factor in the cost of the additional concrete that will be needed for the deck. Steel deck scales may not be as durable as concrete deck scales and may require more maintenance over time. They may also be more prone to damage from heavy loads or harsh weather conditions.

steel deck or concrete deck vehicle scale

Concrete Deck Truck Scales

Concrete deck truck scales are typically more durable and long-lasting than steel deck scales. They are less likely to be damaged by heavy loads or harsh weather conditions.
Concrete deck truck scales require a special foundation and can be more difficult and expensive to install than steel deck scales. They also take longer to install since you have to pour the concrete into the scale weighbridge on location and then stay off the scale for a certain period of time. Concrete deck truck scales are generally more expensive than steel deck scales once you factor in the extra concrete needed for the deck.

Ultimately, the choice between a steel deck and a concrete deck truck scale will depend on your specific needs, timeline, and budget. Consider the factors listed above and weigh the pros and cons of each type of scale to determine which one is the best fit for you. It’s also a good idea to discuss these options regarding should I buy a steel deck truck scale or a concrete deck truck scale with your scale company representative as well.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Scales

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Over the past few years, we have received numerous questions and inquiries about truck scales and vehicle weighing related items. So, we thought it would make a perfect article called Most Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Scales. Below is a summary of the top questions that we have received along with some basic answers to assist you.

What is a Truck Scale and How Exactly Does a Truck Scale Work?

Truck scales are industrial scales built to weigh vehicles. The most common use of a truck scale is to determine the weight of bulk goods being bought and/or sold. You may have seen this mentioned before but in many cases, a truck scale functions figuratively like a cash register for a company. In addition to commercial use, many states use truck scales to check for a truck’s compliance with truck weight limits. The vehicle scales are very popular at feedmills, solid waste processing and metal recycling centers, etc….

As for how a truck scale works, basically you start with a foundation. This is normally a concrete foundation that the truck scale will be anchored to. The actual scale platforms are anchored onto the foundation. There are usually multiple platform modules connected to make up a 70 foot long truck scale. Inside of these modules are load cells. These are the sensors that measure the weight when you drive up on the scale. These can be analog, digital or hydraulic. The weight is then displayed on the digital weight indicator.

how do truck scales work?

How Much does a Truck Scale Cost? Should I Buy a Used Truck Scale?

This is a question that we have tackled before! This number has changed obviously over the years. At the time of this article, the typical truck scale costs are probably near $75,000 or more when you factor in all the various expenses. Remember, this estimate can fluctuate. For example, there have been multiple price increases during the past twelve months.

Regarding used truck scales…. In most cases, we are against buying used truck scales. The reason is these are weighing devices that have 80,000 lb vehicles driven over them constantly and endure all that Mother Nature can throw at them…. year after year. A lot can happen to a truck scale that’s been in use out in the elements for an entire decade.

That being said, sure there might be some good deals on a “low mileage” or “hardly used” used truck scale, but in our opinion, the best long term decision is to buy a brand new truck scale that you hopefully will get to use for two or three decades.

What is the Average Life Span of a Truck Scale?

In our opinion, most truck scales should last around 25 years. However, a lot depends on choosing a quality scale and one that is matched to the amount of truck traffic you expect. Weather elements can also factor into longevity as well. This is where consulting with your truck scale sales person can be a huge benefit when shopping for a truck scale..

All things being equal, a truck scale that weighs a couple of hundred trucks a day is going to wear out quicker than a truck that only weighs a handful of trucks a day. This is an important question and one that you need to discuss with the scale company(s) that you are working with when shopping for a truck scale.

How Accurate is a Truck Scale?

If you buy or sell goods based on the weight of the truck scale, accuracy is critical. Profit, Inventory Levels, and much more are at stake! On a typical 120,000 x 20 lb capacity truck scale, we typically tell folks the accuracy of your truck scale should be somewhere in the neighborhood of 0.1 of one percent.

How Long is an Average Truck Scale?

Most folks weigh typical trucks with trailer. The majority of the time, that means a 70 x 11 truck scale is typical. However, we have seen 80 foot long truck scales or longer utilized. You want to make sure that you choose a vehicle scale that will allow you to get all the tires on the weighing platforms. This is an important subject to consider when choosing a truck scale.

What is a Load Cell & How Many do I Need?

A load cell is the item(s) in a truck scale that measure the weight being applied. Most truck scales require ~ 8 load cells. In most scales, the load cells are wired through the scale platform & summed together in a junction box.

What is a Junction Box?

A j-box is a box with a summing card inside. Usually anywhere from (4) to (8) load cells are connected to the summing card inside the junction box. The card can then be adjusted by the scale technician when calibrating the scale. The signals of multiple load cells are adjustable and then once they are fine tuned, are capable of being wired to the digital weight indicator via the homerun cable.

Should I Purchase a Steel Deck Truck Scale or a Concrete Deck Truck Scale?

Steel deck truck scales have a quick installation time (usually one day) and they are lighter weight. This also is a benefit if you ever need to move or sell the truck scale, years later.

Concrete deck truck scales have a much longer installation time overall since the concrete must cure. The scales are also much heavier which can make moving them or selling them more difficult. On the plus side, a concrete deck typically has better traction than a steel deck.

So, ultimately either choice of industrial scale can be a good one. It depends on what your particular needs are and what your future plans might be with the scale.

I Keep Reading About Lightening. How can I protect my truck scale from lightning?

Most truck scale manufacturers offer weighing scales with grounding and industry standard protection which in most cases involves a single point grounding system with surge protector. This is an ongoing area where manufacturers are working improve their products for better protection. We’ve seen better protection being introduced for load cells and summing boards for example.

How Much Truck Scale Service Maintenance is there? How Often Should I Calibrate a Truck Scale?

With an investment like a truck scale, it makes good sense to have the scale checked & calibrated on a regular basis. Generally, we suggest that truck scale owners have their scales checked anywhere from twice a year to four times a year. Also, the scale owner can do a few things as well throughout the year like keeping the scale underside clean and debris free since buildup under a truck scale is a very common problem.

Another to consider when determining calibration frequency is how many trucks per day are weighed on the scale and the dollar value of what you’re weighing. If your 120,000 pound capacity truck scale is off just a hundred pounds, it can mean thousands of dollars of profit loss and/or a safety hazard. So basically if your truck scale weighs a lot of trucks every day, then you should consider a regular quarterly calibration program with your scale company.

We hope this article helps you to make an intelligent scale purchase. The truth is, there are numerous scale companies located throughout the United States that employee very smart and talented scale professionals who can work with you to recommend a great scale for your weighing needs. As for the scale manufacturers, there are multiple high quality scale manufacturers in the United States who build very good truck scales.



Choosing a Replacement Truck Scale to Match Your Existing Foundation

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It’s common for foundations to outlast truck scale weighbridge, though it can be difficult to find a replacement truck scale with dimensions to match existing foundations.

When planning to replace a truck scale, consider using a low-profile truck scale to eliminate foundation modifications without sacrificing performance.

Legacy truck scale models were manufactured with lower profiles, meaning most standard truck scales currently produced don’t fit these existing foundations.

Solutions for Replacement Truck Scales

The solution is to find a manufacturer who can provide truck scales designed to fit existing foundations. Some manufacturers will create replacement truck scales as special or custom models. These truck scales come with a longer lead time and a higher price because extra time is needed to design and manufacture the scale.



Other truck scale manufacturers may offer standard models designed to fit the foundations of their older truck scale models. These manufacturers provide a standard steel deck or concrete deck weighbridge that can be installed only after extensive modifications are made to other existing foundations.

Basically, not all manufacturers take the same approach to providing replacement truck scale solutions to fit existing foundations.

Rice Lake Low Profile Truck Scale

The Rice Lake Weighing Systems SURVIVOR OTR-LP is Rice Lake’s answer to the need for low-profile, replacement truck scales to fit existing foundations.

The OTR-LP was specifically designed to fit the most common foundation sizes and because they are offered as standard models, there are minimal lead times and lower costs since it’s not a custom scale. With a diamond plate steel deck and the same rugged construction SURVIVOR scales are known for, the OTR-LP is the ideal replacement solution.

Rice Lake works with a nationwide network of certified dealers to ensure each application gets the support they need.

Rice Lake Weighing Systems is a family-owned, ISO 9001 certified corporation, and has been manufacturing and distributing weight-related products and supplies since 1946. Within the company, progressive new technologies merge with the wisdom of industry experience to create the future of weighing through cutting-edge research and design.

Rice Lake’s roots are planted firmly in the principles of quality and customer service. Through three generations of family ownership, these ideals remain unchanged. Today, Rice Lake Weighing Systems is a global leader in measurement and automated process control.

Rice Lake offers more than 40,000 products, with over one million items in stock and available for same- or next-day shipping. The company continues to lead the industry in technological advances and quality products, all with legendary customer service.

Solid Waste & Recycling Truck Scales

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The truck scale is the workhorse of any solid waste or recycling facility to measure your operations daily traffic flow of materials. Cardinal Scale manufactures heavy-duty ARMOR portable digital truck scales and also SmartCan digital upgrade systems for existing scales. If you have lower-volume traffic flow for light-duty use, the Scrapper precast concrete deck truck scale is also available.

Cardinal Scale specializes in customized truck scales to fit existing specifications and they manufacture a wide array of peripheral equipment such as weight indicators, remote displays, database software, and unattended kiosks.

Contact Central Carolina Scale today for a free consultation and quote on upgrading your existing scale or investing in an all-new truck scale for your facility. Call: (919) 776-7737

Portable Truck Scales for Mobile Job Sites

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Cardinal Scale Manufacturing ARMOR Portable Digital Truck Scales can be moved to multiple locations for changing job sites. Their modular design with expandable bulkheads allow you to vary platform sizes depending on weighing needs.

The Cardinal ARMOR Portable Truck Scale features IP69K-rated waterproof digital SmartCell load cells, capacities up to 135 tons, heavy-weight 50-ton CLC, 5/16 in thick checkered steel deck, anti-corrosion baked-on tan powder paint, top-side access to all electronics, and NTEP and Measurement Canada approval. The floating center module makes it easy to add or remove sections to fit application requirements.

Armor Portable Truck Scale Features

  • axis Frictionless Centering System Load Cell Stands
  • Expandable Bulkheads Allow Varying Sizes
  • Heavyweight 50-Ton CLC
  • Load Cell Pockets Completely Surrounded by I-beams
  • Load Cell Stands Pre-Installed for Lightning-Fast Installation
  • Long-Lasting Baked-on Tan Powder Coat Paint
  • Measurement Canada Certified
  • Modular Design for Platform Sizing Adjustments
  • NTEP Legal for Trade
  • Optional Ramps and Bolt-on Wings
  • Portable for Moving Job Sites
  • SmartCell Stainless Steel Waterproof Digital Load Cells
  • Tightly-Spaced I-beams for Optimal Structural Integrity
  • Top-Side Access to All Electronic Components

1010700Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 20′ X 10′, 50 ton CLC, 50 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010701Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 40′ X 10′, 50 ton CLC, 70 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010702Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 47′ X 10′, 50 ton CLC, 70 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010703Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 50′ X 10′, 50 ton CLC, 80 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010704Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 60′ X 10′, 50 ton CLC, 110 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010705Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 70′ X 10′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010706Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 75′ X 10′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010707Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 80′ X 10′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010708Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 90′ X 10′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010709Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 100′ X 10′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010710Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 110′ X 10′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010711Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 20′ X 11′, 50 ton CLC, 50 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010712Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 40′ X 11′, 50 ton CLC, 70 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010713Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 47′ X 11′, 50 ton CLC, 70 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010714Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 50′ X 11′, 50 ton CLC, 80 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010715Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 60′ X 11′, 50 ton CLC, 110 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010716Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 70′ X 11′, 50T CLC, 135T Cap., SCBD Smart Cells, Port. Frame
1010717Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 75′ X 11′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010718Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 80′ X 11′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010719Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 90′ X 11′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010720Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 100′ X 11′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010721Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 110′ X 11′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010722Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 20′ X 12′, 50 ton CLC, 50 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010723Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 40′ X 12′, 50 ton CLC, 70 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010724Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 47′ X 12′, 50 ton CLC, 70 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010725Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 50′ X 12′, 50 ton CLC, 80 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010726Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 60′ X 12′, 50 ton CLC, 110 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010727Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 70′ X 12′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010728Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 75′ X 12′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010729Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 80′ X 12′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010730Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 90′ X 12′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010731Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 100′ X 12′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells
1010732Truck Scale, Armor, 5/16″ Steel Deck, 110′ X 12′, 50 ton CLC, 135 Ton Capacity, SCBD Smart Cells

POPULAR OPTIONS

0330-1135-0ADrop-In Assembly Filler w/ Lifting Brackets, 12 in L x 132 in W, Steel Deck
MB-ACDigital Media Box with AC power supply
MB-GDigital Media Box for Glass Fiber Optic Cables with AC Power Supply
RMP-ARMORRamp for ARMOR Digital Truck Scale Portable Models, For One End Only
SNAP-DLCSnapStream Wireless Interface from Digital Truck Scale to Indicator
WING-KITWING-KIT

What are the Advantages of a Digital Truck Scale versus a Digital Conversion Box?

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Digital truck scales and digital conversion boxes both provide distinct advantages that increase efficiency, calibration, and diagnostic information communication. The following is just a portion of the information contained in this article which highlights the advantages for both and how they provide more value for those willing to make the switch to these invaluable truck scale technologies.

Cardinal Scale Digital Truck Scales

What are the advantages of a digital truck scale vs. a digital conversion box?

Digital truck scales offer many more diagnostic options regarding weight offset, maximum weight, cell capacity, calibration within the cell, hot and cold temperature compensation values, and temperature offsets for external temperatures. Digital truck scales feature internal calibration and all truck scale diagnostics originate from within the digital load cell itself. Digital truck scales feature load cells and load cell cables that are plug-and-play to simplify the connection process and reduce time spent terminating wiring connections. Load cells can be very easily and quickly replaced to save time and effort. Since the cell circuitry is internal to the cell, the need for a junction box and all of the accompanying wiring is eliminated. Digital truck scales also have the added benefit of remote digital monitoring, which can monitor the digital truck scale system in real time.

Digital conversion boxes have the capability of updating an analog load cell system to a digital version. If the scale owner already has an existing analog scale, then upgrading to a digital conversion system might make sense. Digital conversion boxes tend to be used more often with multiple scale systems to maximize utility of the digital conversion box system. They can be configured to a remote digital monitoring system, so they can view multiple locations at a time.

How do digital truck scales and digital conversion boxes increase efficiency over an analog system?

Digital truck scales greatly decrease the time and effort needed in diagnosing potential failures and, in turn, decreasing downtime due to cell failure. Since digital load cells are calibrated to the system before shipment, set-up time is minimal. The quick and exact digital diagnosis from remote diagnostic software reduces guesswork and time needed to find the root cause of the load cell failure. Since the system is completely digital, there is little chance of loss of signal resolution due to an analog signal. Digital truck scales feature a much simpler daisy-chain design regarding load cell wiring and load cells, and load cell cables can be replaced much quicker.

Digital conversion boxes expedite the conversion of analog information into a more manageable signal and can make diagnosing cell problems easier to detect when compared to an analog system.

A digital conversion box begins the diagnostic process within the conversion box. The digital conversion box gathers analog signals that are converted to digital signals and diagnoses cell failures when summing signals within the conversion box. Digital conversion boxes provide a panel of diagnostic attributes when checking for cell viability. The cell failure will be isolated to the faulty load cell section that includes the load cell, load cell cable, or analog section. This means less specific information is provided to the digital conversion box due to limitations within this type of system. When a cell fails, the replacement cell will be calibrated to the existing system.

Digital truck scale systems are monitored through remote software. Digital conversion boxes have the capability of being remotely monitored to diagnose problems as well. Any digital system will have an immediate advantage when giving the end user the capability of receiving alerts through the indicator and/or remote monitoring software when an issue arises.

What is required to replace a digital load cell vs. an analog load cell working in conjunction with a digital conversion box? How long does it typically take?

Since digital conversion occurs within the load cell in a digital truck scale system, digital load cells can be replaced quickly and easily. The scale corner must be lifted, bolts holding the load cell in place must be loosened, and the load cell cable connector must be uncoupled. Once the faulty cell has been taken out, the replacement cell will be connected to the load cell cable, bolted back into place, and then the digital load cell is back in full operation. This whole process takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes.

Digital conversion boxes monitor a system of load cells from within the conversion box. Once a load cell has been shown to possess an error, errors will be checked for the cell. The scale corner is lifted and the junction box will be opened to disconnect the five-wire cable from the load cell that must be pulled through the conduit. Then the load cell cable must be pulled back through the conduit to connect the new load cell. The wiring is then connected to the digital conversion box. After this, the junction box must be re-sealed. Special attention must be paid to prevent moisture or sediment from gathering or entering the junction box enclosure, due to the increased likelihood of leaks from within the junction box, leaks from gland connectors, and exposure from wiring load cells onto the board inside the junction box. On average, replacing an analog cell through a digital conversion box will take roughly an hour or more.

What are the connection differences between digital truck scales and analog truck scales with digital conversion boxes?

Digital load cells are daisy-chained through load cell cables linked by cable connectors. The need for wiring back to a junction box is not necessary, since the digital load cells communicate directly with the indicator. If the cables are damaged connecting to the load cell, they can be replaced without having to replace the load cell.

Digital conversion boxes are wired from the analog load cell to the junction box. Once there, each of the load cells are wired directly to a digital conversion board, secured through gland connectors on the junction box, and adjusted to calibrate the analog load cell. Analog load cell cables do not have the advantage of being monitored as they are permanently linked to the load cell. If a section of the wiring to a load cell is damaged, the load cell will have to be replaced.

Ultimately, whether you’re purchasing a brand new digital truck scale or you’re updating your traditional analog truck scale to digital, one of the most important benefits to end users is the ability to keep their scale operating for longer, with less interruptions and smaller intervals of downtime. If you need additional information on this information, please contact the sales team at Central Carolina Scale.

New Digital Truck Scales With SmartCell Now Available

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Cardinal Scale Manufacturing recently announced the official launch of the new ARMOR® series digital truck scales with SmartCell® load cells that offer unmatched performance built to last a lifetime of heavy-duty weighing use. Every facet of the digital truck scale weighbridge and electronics have been specifically built for long-lasting endurance, minimal upkeep, and IoT monitoring convenience. Deliveries are scheduled to start in January 2018.

ARMOR® truck scales feature a heavyweight 50-ton CLC, no moving parts below the scale deck (including the load cells), more structural steel than the competition, SmartCell® stainless steel waterproof digital load cells, and IoT-enabled iSite remote monitoring software.

The state-of-the-art, debris-inhibiting axis load cell stand design limits obstructions to the scale’s performance with the digital load cells mounted high within the stand near the scale deck. The load cell stands are fabricated from one-inch-thick steel to minimize rust and corrosion damage and ensure long-term strength and durability. The long-lasting baked-on tan powder coat paint finish ensures a lifetime of trouble-free protection. The Cloud-based iSite remote monitoring software offers e-mail and/or text alerts to ensure your scale is performing at all times.

cardinal scale smartcell digital load cells

ARMOR® steel deck weighbridges utilize a tight concentration of 7.5-inch I-beam spacing which minimizes unsupported deck plate area and ensures that truck tire contact patches are always directly supported by one I-beam. Four rows of welded stiffeners provide maximum structural rigidity and safeguard against I-beam deflection under loads for optimal strength and longevity.

Cardinal Scale’s SmartCell® digital load cells are the newest solution in advanced load cell technology. Messy, time-consuming wiring is no longer necessary, since cables connect plug-and-play to the cell through metal braided rodent-proof cables. Internal cell circuitry eliminates the need for a junction box.

The ARMOR’s SmartCell® load cell pockets are surrounded on both sides by I-beams which run the entire length of the weighbridge. This alleviates any potential structural weakness around the load cell region like in competitors’ truck scales. The no-bolt bridge connections feature interconnecting load blocks and receivers welded directly to the I-beams for strength and durability.

Contact your local Cardinal Scale dealer today to begin taking advantage of the entire gamut of new features and functions of the Cardinal ARMOR® digital truck scale!

Cardinal Pit-Mounted Truck Scales Provide Port of Miami Ability to Weigh Greater Volume of Freight

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Two Additional Cardinal Scale Pit-Mounted EPR Truck Scales Provide Terminal the Ability to Weigh Greater Volumes of Freight. Major ocean transport company adds more Cardinal EPR truck scales and 210 indicators to expedite traffic flow for 600 truck weighments per day at busy Port of Miami.

Traffic congestion was becoming a major issue at the Port of Miami with a steady increase in export freight volumes over the last several years and the completion of a new underground truck tunnel leading into the port. A lengthy line of trucks were typically waiting to be weighed before entering the freight terminals at the port.

It became apparent that a solution was needed to be able to move this increased traffic through the port more quickly and efficiently.

 

Cardinal Scale Pit Type Truck Scale

One of the largest ocean transport companies at the Port of Miami rearranged their container yard and came to Cardinal Scale seeking a solution for its truck scale needs.

Cardinal Scale had several meetings with Port of Miami officials and the ocean transport company’s personnel during which various yard and scale layouts were considered, including above or below ground scales, steel or concrete decks, network connectivity, and weight documentation.

It was ultimately decided that there would be two new inbound steel deck truck scales installed below grade in deep pits. The deep pit request presented an important challenge: How to ensure that a 4 1/2 foot deep pit would remain dry at just above sea level on an island?

Cardinal Scale had stressed the importance of keeping the pit dry during the design process.

Therefore, the ocean transport company contracted with an engineering company that designed and built an elaborate self-contained underground pump station, which was built adjacent to both scale pits to prevent the pits from flooding.

The ocean transport company decided to purchase two new 13570-EPR truck scales from Cardinal Scale, which were slightly modified to be installed in the pits. The pit design was chosen to save yard space, as well as, producing an easier and safer method for drivers and other personnel to move in and around the trucks. A steel deck was chosen over a concrete deck to avoid delays associated with the curing time of a concrete deck.

The scales were connected to Cardinal Scale model 210 weight indicators fitted with 10/100 Ethernet cards and attached to P500 receipt printers, which were installed in two separate scale houses. The Ethernet cards allow them to communicate the weight data to their remote server and the ticket printers allow them to produce a hard copy for the truck drivers, which not only includes their truck ID, but the time and date of weighment as well.

The ocean transport company’s freight terminal at the Port of Miami operates 24/7, 365 days a year.

It can now weigh more than 600 trucks per day with the addition of the two pit-mounted Cardinal truck scales. The ocean transport company has substantially reduced the weigh-in time for each truck, which in turn allows them to load the freight containers on the cargo ships more efficiently.

The additional truck weighing scales have led to shorter lines of trucks, thus improving the overall traffic congestion at the Port of Miami as well.

You can read more about the case study by clicking the link.

What Type Of Scale Should A Metal Recycler Buy?

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Another popular question we are asked is: How many types of 70 foot truck scales exist (low-profile, pit style, full electronic, concrete deck, steel deck)? Is there one particular type you would recommend over another for use within the recycling business? What benefit does it present to pick one over the other?

Truck scales come in numerous sizes and types. Truck scales could be portable axle, weigh-in-motion, self-contained transportable, electro-mechanical, electronic, and hydraulic versions. In a traditional truck scale you would need to choose either an above ground or pit style scale. Then, a painted steel deck or concrete deck that you would pour on location.

For the recycling business, generally the most effective choice will be the steel deck electronic truck scale because it provides the fastest setting up time and if you’re replacing an existing scale, the lowest down-time in swapping out a pre-existing truck scale. If the metal recycling company is replacing an older truck scale installed inside a pit that is experiencing water damage concerns, a hydraulic truck scale could be a good decision to think about for an advancement. The load cells within a hydraulic truck scale have excellent defense to water and lightning issues.

As with any big decision like this, we recommend that you contact your local scale company to provide you with a recommendation and truck scale price quote. It could be that your best choice might be a pit style scale. Or maybe a hydraulic scale would work best for you.  A local scale dealer should be able to provide that recommendation to you and present you with several buying options to consider.