Must-Have Maintenance Checklist for Truck Scales
If sensors and display system can be credited as the brains of a weighing system, then truck scales are its brawns. They are robust, rugged and versatile weighing solutions. Unfortunately, they are constantly subjected to extremely heavy loads and are prone to physical damage. One way to take care of them is by performing regular inspections. The following to-do list shows necessary tasks that need to be performed on a daily, weekly, monthly and half-yearly basis.
Daily Tasks
Operators should perform a visual check every day to make sure that the platform is debris-free. The sides and end frames should not be fouled. It should be verified that the digital display always reads zero before any vehicle is driven upon the platform. All vehicles should slowly approach the platform and avoid sudden braking. Operators should ensure that all four wheels are on the scales before taking the readings to assure accuracy.
Weekly Tasks
Once a week, load cell assemblies should be investigated for the build-up of debris. If present, debris should be removed without causing any damage to load cell cables. A weekly weigh-check should be performed by using a loaded vehicle and comparing its weight when weighed at each end of the truck scale as compared to its weight at the center of the platform. If the deviation is over ±2 indicated divisions, it has to be reported. Skipping this ‘end-middle-end’ test will present inaccurate results in the future.
Monthly Tasks
Pit-mounted truck scales have a tendency to accumulate small quantities of water. Operators should do monthly checks for the same, along with checking for debris build-up. Other mechanical damages on end and side frames of the platform and leading edge of foundation should be rectified if found. Perform a monthly ‘end-middle-end’ test and record the output. Gently wash the debris without damaging load cells. Rebalance truck scales and reset the display to zero, and repeat the end-middle-end test. Compare the results of both the tests. Additionally, if displacement of platform is observed, immediately report to the maintenance team.
Twice yearly tasks
Twice a year, check for structural damages. Note down instances of cracks, movements and any other damage to scales and foundation. Next, check the load cell cables. List all the issues and report to the concerned teams so that these issues can be addressed immediately.
Additional checks
Apart from the daily wear and tear, other factors that affect truck scales are weather and repair work. Though most modern truck scales are designed with protection against lightning within load cells, it is crucial to check if any damage has occurred after a thunderstorm. There have been instances of electrical welding aggravating the damage. Always consult with the service provider before beginning any welding work as it has the potential to cause serious damage to the load cells or weigh-bars.
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Plan and schedule regular checks, and increase weigh-scales’ lifespan. Always consult a reputed service provider for better results. There is no alternative for regular inspections, so do not get stingy with them.
