The Benefits of Using An Axle Scale

A scale is a simple, yet very useful tool to have in your operation. When it comes to capturing weight measurements on larger objects (vehicles for example), you will want to start looking at different scale options. That is where axle scales come in. If your operation needs to capture large scale weight measurements but do not need the extent of a truck scale, then the axle scale may be a viable option. Axle scales come in a variety of forms, but all serve the same purpose: help you track how much weight a given product weighs to determine its exact dimensions. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about using an axle scale in your operation and why it’s worth investing in one for your company.

What is an Axle Scale?

An axle scale is an instrument that measures the weight of axles so that you can accurately calculate their size, or load capacity. Unlike a full size truck scale, where you have to drive the entire load on to the scale to capture the weight. While different companies will use axle scales slightly differently, they all essentially work the same way. The setup may differ between places, but ultimately the process is the same. You have your scale, load cells, junction box and weight indicator. There may be accessories like a remote display or traffic light, but ultimately there is not much more to an axle scale.

Advantages of Using an Axle Scale

Like other scale types, there are certain advantages that an axle scale will have over a larger vehicle scale. Below is a list of some of the advantages that an axle scale offers:

Although axle scales cannot be used legal for trade they work well in many situations. They are great for gathering weight data to ensure trucks don’t leave a facility overloaded per DOT standards. They also take up significantly less space than a full size truck scale. This is a huge advantage for facilities with limited real estate to locate a scale. The footprint for an axle scale is only 33% of a full size truck scale. Axle scales are also more economical. This is because the scale itself is much smaller and requires less materials to construct. Similarly, any concrete foundation work is much less with an axle scale vs a full size truck scale. Finally, not all axle scales require installation requiring concrete foundations. Many can be installed on existing flat pavement and are therefore easier to install and move in the future if needed.

Should You Consider an axle scale?

Determining if an axle scale is the right choice for your operation depends greatly on what your needs are. Considering that it is not a legal for trade option, the scale would not be a viable option if you are looking for a legal for trade option.

Axle scales are able to find utility in applications ranging from shipping and construction to farming and logistics. The technology is constantly changing, and has forced scale manufacturers to design capable axle scales that can keep up with the demands of environment. Additionally, the creation of these types of scales has made it so that businesses can be in compliance with the rules put in place around load transport.

Reliability and ease of use are the main components of a good axle scale. The decision to invest in an axle scale is a good way to stay compliant with local and state regulations as well as keeping safety as a top priority for you and your site workers. An axle scale is a great investment if you need to save space, time and money.

Final Words

When manufacturing products, you have to worry about many factors. If you choose the wrong sizes for your products, you could end up with a quality issue or even a safety concern. Determining the exact dimensions of a product and knowing the weight it can handle is a good way to prevent problems. An axle scale can help you do this. We hope this article has helped you better understand how axle scales work and why it’s worth investing in one for your company.

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale related. Be sure to check out our legal for trade truck scale system articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. We also have articles on scale accessories, common problems to prolong your scales lifespan, weighing applications as well as what scale indicator works best with your junction box. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership.

The Weight of Success: How EV Manufacturers Benefit from Using Industrial Scales

The global automotive industry is undergoing a revolutionary transformation, with electric vehicles (EVs) leading the charge towards a greener and more sustainable future. As the demand for EVs continues to surge, manufacturers are constantly striving to optimize their production processes and enhance product quality. One often overlooked but essential tool in this quest for excellence is the industrial scale. In this article, we will delve into the myriad ways in which EV manufacturers benefit from the use of industrial scales.

Precision in Component Manufacturing

The assembly of an electric vehicle involves various components, each requiring precise measurements and weights. Industrial scales play a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy of these components, from battery cells to motor parts. By utilizing industrial scales, manufacturers can maintain consistent quality and performance across all EV components, minimizing the risk of defects and recalls.

Battery Management and Testing

The heart of any electric vehicle is its battery, and its performance is paramount to the success of the vehicle. Industrial scales are instrumental in battery management and testing processes. They allow manufacturers to accurately measure and calibrate battery cells, ensuring they meet the required specifications. This precision extends to battery pack assembly, where individual cell weights are critical to achieving the desired energy density and balance within the pack.

Weight Distribution and Safety

Electric vehicles must adhere to strict weight distribution requirements to ensure stability and safety on the road. Industrial scales are essential tools for verifying that the weight distribution is within acceptable limits. Proper weight distribution not only enhances the vehicle's handling but also contributes to overall safety, preventing issues like rollovers and accidents.

Charging Infrastructure Development

As the EV market continues to grow, so does the need for robust charging infrastructure. Industrial scales are used in the design and testing of charging stations, ensuring that they can withstand various environmental conditions and vehicle loads. Precise weight measurements also help optimize the materials used in the construction of charging stations, leading to more cost-effective and durable solutions.

Vehicle Performance Testing

To meet consumer expectations and regulatory standards, EVs must undergo rigorous performance testing. Industrial scales are indispensable in these testing procedures, allowing manufacturers to measure key parameters such as acceleration, braking, and load-bearing capacity accurately. This data is crucial for fine-tuning the vehicle's performance and ensuring it meets safety and efficiency standards.

Supply Chain Management

The EV manufacturing process involves a complex and global supply chain, with components sourced from various suppliers worldwide. Industrial scales help manufacturers maintain control over the quality and specifications of components received from suppliers. By verifying component weights and dimensions, manufacturers can avoid production delays and costly rework while upholding quality standards.

Environmental Impact Reduction

Sustainability is a core principle of the EV industry. Industrial scales contribute to reducing the environmental footprint of manufacturing processes by enabling accurate measurements that minimize material waste. Efficient use of resources not only aligns with eco-conscious objectives but also improves cost-effectiveness.

Regulatory Compliance

Stringent regulations govern the automotive industry, and compliance is non-negotiable. Industrial scales are indispensable in ensuring that EVs meet weight and safety regulations. Accurate weight measurements are critical for certifying vehicles for road use and establishing their eligibility for government incentives and tax credits.

Conclusion

In the fast-evolving landscape of electric vehicle manufacturing, industrial scales are unsung heroes that play a pivotal role in ensuring precision, quality, and safety. Their contributions extend from the earliest stages of component manufacturing to the final performance testing of the vehicle. As the demand for EVs continues to surge, their significance will only grow. EV manufacturers that recognize and harness the benefits of industrial scales will not only produce better vehicles but also contribute to the realization of a cleaner and more sustainable future.

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale related. Be sure to check out our truck scale articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership. Also, take a look at our “Common Problems With Bench Scales'', which can help give insight to what issues could arise while owning a bench scale.

The Cost of an Axle Scale: Understanding the Investment for Efficient Weighing

In the world of transportation and logistics, accurate weight measurement is crucial for various reasons, including safety, compliance, and efficiency. Axle scales, also known as weighbridges or truck scales, play a vital role in obtaining precise weight measurements for trucks, trailers, and other heavy vehicles. This article aims to delve into the cost factors associated with axle scales, shedding light on their importance and the financial considerations involved in their acquisition.

---

Axle scales are designed to weigh individual axles and the entire vehicle, ensuring compliance with weight restrictions imposed by local authorities and regulating bodies. By accurately measuring the weight, axle scales help prevent overloading, which can lead to costly fines, damage to infrastructure, and increased fuel consumption. Additionally, axle scales assist in optimizing load distribution, improving overall vehicle performance, and minimizing wear and tear on tires and suspension systems.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Axle Scales:

Scale Type and Capacity:

Axle scales come in various types and capacities, each suited for different applications. The cost of an axle scale depends on its design, construction materials, and load capacity. Common types include portable axle scales, pit-mounted weighbridges, and surface-mounted weighbridges. Higher-capacity scales built to handle heavier loads generally command a higher price.

Construction Materials:

Axle scales are typically constructed using either steel or concrete. Steel scales are often more expensive upfront but offer durability and flexibility, allowing for easy relocation. Concrete scales, on the other hand, are generally more affordable but require a fixed installation. The choice of construction material depends on factors such as budget, usage patterns, and the availability of installation options.

Additional Features:

The inclusion of advanced features and technological enhancements can significantly impact the cost of an axle scale. These features may include remote monitoring capabilities, integrated software for data management, traffic lights for directing vehicles, and advanced load cell technology for precise measurements. While these features can enhance efficiency and productivity, they may add to the initial investment.

Installation and Infrastructure:

Installing an axle scale involves various costs, including site preparation, foundation construction, and electrical connections. The complexity of the installation process, such as the need for excavation or civil engineering work, can impact the overall cost. Additionally, the requirement for additional infrastructure like ramps, approach plates, and fencing should be considered.

When you consider an axle scale purchase, you will go through several consultations with a certified scale technician, who will go over all the factors that will affect the cost involved. They will be able to discuss contractors and planning before the installation date.

Maintenance and Calibration:

Like any equipment, axle scales require regular maintenance and calibration to ensure accuracy and reliability. Ongoing maintenance costs should be factored into the overall cost of ownership. It is crucial to consider the availability of spare parts, technical support, and service contracts offered by the manufacturer or third-party providers.

Customization and Integration:

Certain industries or specific applications may necessitate customization or integration of axle scales with existing systems. Customization can include special platform sizes, reinforced construction, or software integration. These specialized requirements may increase the cost but can provide tailored solutions to meet unique operational needs.

Determining the Cost:

The cost of an axle scale can vary widely based on the aforementioned factors. On average, portable axle scales can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands, while larger weighbridges can cost anywhere from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars. It is crucial to obtain multiple quotes from reputable manufacturers or suppliers to compare prices, features, warranties, and after-sales support.

Return on Investment:

Although the initial investment in an axle scale may seem significant, it is essential to consider the long-term benefits and potential cost savings. By avoiding penalties for overloading, optimizing load distribution, reducing fuel consumption, and minimizing vehicle wear and tear, axle scales can provide a substantial return on investment over time. Accurate weight measurements also contribute to improved safety, compliance with regulations, and enhanced operational efficiency.

Closing words

Axle scales are indispensable tools for accurate weight measurement in the transportation and logistics industry. While the cost of an axle scale can vary depending on factors such as type, capacity, materials, features, and installation requirements, it is crucial to view the investment as a long-term solution that can bring about significant cost savings, compliance benefits, and operational improvements. Careful consideration of the various cost factors and thorough evaluation of available options will help make an informed decision when acquiring an axle scale that meets specific needs and budgetary constraints.

Axle Scale vs Full Size Truck Scale?

We are often asked what are the differences between a full size, say 70ft truck scale, and an axle scale.  There are few key features that differentiate an axle scale from its large brother.

What is an axle scale?

As the name implies an axle scale is a weighing system designed to weigh the individual axle groups.  The weighments are completed one axle set at a time and then all the axle weights are summed to provide the total gross weight of the truck.  This is much different than a full size truck scale where the entire truck is weighed at one time.

Legal For Trade:

If you are using your scale in any legal for trade weighing operations then an axle scale cannot be used.  Axle scales are not considered Legal For Trade.  This is because as each axle group is weighed individually there are slight errors and therefore the overall accuracy of the scale is not within national testing standards.  Bottom-line, if you are looking to weigh trucks legal for trade then you cannot use an axle scale.

Benefits of an axle scale?

Although axle scales cannot be used legal for trade they work well in many situations.  They are great for gathering weight data to ensure trucks don’t leave a facility overloaded per DOT standards.  They also take up significantly less space than a full size truck scale.  This is a huge advantage for facilities with limited real estate to locate a scale.  The footprint for an axle scale is only 33% of a full size truck scale.  Axle scales are also more economical.  This is because the scale itself is much smaller and requires less materials to construct.  Similarly, any concrete foundation work is much less with an axle scale vs a full size truck scale.  Finally, not all axle scales require installation requiring concrete foundations.  Many can be installed on existing flat pavement and are therefore easier to install and move in the future if needed.

Axle Scales & Weigh-in-Motion?

A unique benefit of an axle scale is their ability to offer weigh-in-motion.  This means the truck does not have to stop on the scale, instead they drive over it at a slow speed and the scale does the rest.  Although the accuracy is slightly less, weigh-in-motion provides operational benefits since more trucks can be weighed faster since each truck does not have to stop.  Most weigh-in-motion axle scales boast 1-2% accuracy.  Keep in mind that not all axle scales offer this feature.  Many axle scales are simply static scales that sum of the total axle weights at the completion of all axle groups being weighed.  

Popular Axles Scales

There are a number of manufacturers of axle scales.  Of note is InterComp Scales, B-Tek Scales, and Cardinal Scales.  Each has their own models and options; see below for a few popular ones. Also checkout our Axle Scale page.

Intercomp

Intercomp LS-WIM Axle Scale (Copy)

Intercomp AX900 Axle Scale (Copy)

B-Tek

B-Tek AX300 (Copy)

B-Tek Ax200 (Copy)

Cardinal

Cardinal 760PS Axle Scale (Copy)

Cardinal SWIM Axle Scale (Copy)

Closing Words

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale related. Be sure to check out our legal for trade truck scale system articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. We also have articles on scale accessories, common problems to prolong your scales lifespan, weighing applications as well as what scale indicator works best with your junction box. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership.

The Quick Guide to Axle Scales

Axle Weigher Basics

Cardinal SWIM Series

Axle scales are a great alternative to larger truck scales. They offer some benefits like cost, size and portability. Since purchasing an axle scale is a pricier investment, it is good to have a decent knowledge base when it comes to purchasing an axle scale. Before you buy an axle scale, here are a few things you should know. In this article we will discuss the factors that can impact your scale purchase.

An axle scale is a valuable piece of equipment for commercial vehicles. There is no better way to determine the weight of your vehicle than investing in an axle scale. In this post, we explain a few things you want to know before purchasing an axle scale. If you're considering an axle scale, here are a few things to keep in mind.

How an Axle Scale Can Help Your Business

Depending on the kind of operation you have, axle scales may provide several benefits. One of the biggest ways axle scales can benefit your business is simply by the cost of owning an axle scale. Since they are considerably smaller that a standard truck scale, they will also have a way lower price point. By knowing how much weight a truck is carrying and potentially avoiding accidents, axle scales help truckers stay safe. They also reduce unnecessary expenses by ensuring you don't get penalized for an overweight truck. If you want to safeguard yourself against these issues, you may want to invest in an axle scale.

Learning the process

An axle scale is a weighing system designed to weigh the individual axle groups. The weighments are completed one axle set at a time and then all the axle weights are summed to provide the total gross weight of the truck. This is much different than a full size truck scale where the entire truck is weighed at one time. The first step is for the vehicle to go over the scale while the wheel load exceeds the sensor pads. The vehicle does not need to be completely halted for the scale to function. When a vehicle goes through the scale, the metal plates underneath bend and calculate the pressure generated by the wheels above. The sum of all the weights on the wheels is then calculated.

A unique benefit of an axle scale is their ability to offer weigh-in-motion. This means the truck does not have to stop on the scale, instead they drive over it at a slow speed and the scale does the rest. Although the accuracy is slightly less, weigh-in-motion provides operational benefits since more trucks can be weighed faster since each truck does not have to stop. Most weigh-in-motion axle scales boast 1-2% accuracy. Keep in mind that not all axle scales offer this feature. Many axle scales are simply static scales that sum of the total axle weights at the completion of all axle groups being weighed.

benefits

Although axle scales cannot be used legal for trade they work well in many situations. They are great for gathering weight data to ensure trucks don’t leave a facility overloaded per DOT standards. They also take up significantly less space than a full size truck scale. This is a huge advantage for facilities with limited real estate to locate a scale. The footprint for an axle scale is only 33% of a full size truck scale. Axle scales are also more economical. This is because the scale itself is much smaller and requires less materials to construct. Similarly, any concrete foundation work is much less with an axle scale vs a full size truck scale. Finally, not all axle scales require installation requiring concrete foundations. Many can be installed on existing flat pavement and are therefore easier to install and move in the future if needed.

Closing Words

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale related. Be sure to check out our legal for trade truck scale system articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. We also have articles on scale accessories, common problems to prolong your scales lifespan, weighing applications as well as what scale indicator works best with your junction box. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership.

The Benefits of Using An Axle Scale

A scale is a simple, yet very useful tool to have in your operation. When it comes to capturing weight measurements on larger objects (vehicles for example), you will want to start looking at different scale options. That is where axle scales come in. If your operation needs to capture large scale weight measurements but do not need the extent of a truck scale, then the axle scale may be a viable option. Axle scales come in a variety of forms, but all serve the same purpose: help you track how much weight a given product weighs to determine its exact dimensions. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about using an axle scale in your operation and why it’s worth investing in one for your company.

What is an Axle Scale?

An axle scale is an instrument that measures the weight of axles so that you can accurately calculate their size, or load capacity. Unlike a full size truck scale, where you have to drive the entire load on to the scale to capture the weight. While different companies will use axle scales slightly differently, they all essentially work the same way. The setup may differ between places, but ultimately the process is the same. You have your scale, load cells, junction box and weight indicator. There may be accessories like a remote display or traffic light, but ultimately there is not much more to an axle scale.

Advantages of Using an Axle Scale

Like other scale types, there are certain advantages that an axle scale will have over a larger vehicle scale. Below is a list of some of the advantages that an axle scale offers:

Although axle scales cannot be used legal for trade they work well in many situations. They are great for gathering weight data to ensure trucks don’t leave a facility overloaded per DOT standards. They also take up significantly less space than a full size truck scale. This is a huge advantage for facilities with limited real estate to locate a scale. The footprint for an axle scale is only 33% of a full size truck scale. Axle scales are also more economical. This is because the scale itself is much smaller and requires less materials to construct. Similarly, any concrete foundation work is much less with an axle scale vs a full size truck scale. Finally, not all axle scales require installation requiring concrete foundations. Many can be installed on existing flat pavement and are therefore easier to install and move in the future if needed.

Should You Consider an axle scale?

Determining if an axle scale is the right choice for your operation depends greatly on what your needs are. Considering that it is not a legal for trade option, the scale would not be a viable option if you are looking for a legal for trade option.

Axle scales are able to find utility in applications ranging from shipping and construction to farming and logistics. The technology is constantly changing, and has forced scale manufacturers to design capable axle scales that can keep up with the demands of environment. Additionally, the creation of these types of scales has made it so that businesses can be in compliance with the rules put in place around load transport.

Reliability and ease of use are the main components of a good axle scale. The decision to invest in an axle scale is a good way to stay compliant with local and state regulations as well as keeping safety as a top priority for you and your site workers. An axle scale is a great investment if you need to save space, time and money.

Final Words

When manufacturing products, you have to worry about many factors. If you choose the wrong sizes for your products, you could end up with a quality issue or even a safety concern. Determining the exact dimensions of a product and knowing the weight it can handle is a good way to prevent problems. An axle scale can help you do this. We hope this article has helped you better understand how axle scales work and why it’s worth investing in one for your company.

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale related. Be sure to check out our legal for trade truck scale system articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. We also have articles on scale accessories, common problems to prolong your scales lifespan, weighing applications as well as what scale indicator works best with your junction box. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership.

Axle Scale vs Full Size Truck Scale?

We are often asked what are the differences between a full size, say 70ft truck scale, and an axle scale.  There are few key features that differentiate an axle scale from its large brother.

What is an axle scale?

As the name implies an axle scale is a weighing system designed to weigh the individual axle groups.  The weighments are completed one axle set at a time and then all the axle weights are summed to provide the total gross weight of the truck.  This is much different than a full size truck scale where the entire truck is weighed at one time.

Legal For Trade:

If you are using your scale in any legal for trade weighing operations then an axle scale cannot be used.  Axle scales are not considered Legal For Trade.  This is because as each axle group is weighed individually there are slight errors and therefore the overall accuracy of the scale is not within national testing standards.  Bottom-line, if you are looking to weigh trucks legal for trade then you can use an axle scale.

Benefits of an axle scale?

Although axle scales cannot be used legal for trade they work well in many situations.  They are great for gathering weight data to ensure trucks don’t leave a facility overloaded per DOT standards.  They also take up significantly less space than a full size truck scale.  This is a huge advantage for facilities with limited real estate to locate a scale.  The footprint for an axle scale is only 33% of a full size truck scale.  Axle scales are also more economical.  This is because the scale itself is much smaller and requires less materials to construct.  Similarly, any concrete foundation work is much less with an axle scale vs a full size truck scale.  Finally, not all axle scales require installation requiring concrete foundations.  Many can be installed on existing flat pavement and are therefore easier to install and move in the future if needed.

Axle Scales & Weigh-in-Motion?

A unique benefit of an axle scale is their ability to offer weigh-in-motion.  This means the truck does not have to stop on the scale, instead they drive over it at a slow speed and the scale does the rest.  Although the accuracy is slightly less, weigh-in-motion provides operational benefits since more trucks can be weighed faster since each truck does not have to stop.  Most weigh-in-motion axle scales boast 1-2% accuracy.  Keep in mind that not all axle scales offer this feature.  Many axle scales are simply static scales that sum of the total axle weights at the completion of all axle groups being weighed.  

Popular Axles Scales

There are a number of manufacturers of axle scales.  Of note is InterComp Scales, B-Tek Scales, and Cardinal Scales.  Each has their own models and options; see below for a few popular ones. Also checkout our Axle Scale page.

Intercomp

Intercomp LS-WIM Axle Scale

Intercomp AX900 Axle Scale

B-Tek

B-Tek AX300

B-Tek Ax200

Cardinal

Cardinal 760PS Axle Scale

Cardinal SWIM Axle Scale

Closing Words

At American Scale we strive to bring you informed and useful content on all things scale related. Be sure to check out our legal for trade truck scale system articles about truck scale foundation or how much do truck scales cost. We even have a guide to warranties. We also have articles on scale accessories, common problems to prolong your scales lifespan, weighing applications as well as what scale indicator works best with your junction box. To learn more about bench scales, it would be good to check out our other articles such as “Bench Scale Basics'' and “How Much Does A Bench Scale Cost?”. These articles will help with the basics of bench scale ownership.