Monthly Archives: May 2016

In today’s recycling and solid waste industry, uptime is of utmost importance. Most facilities focus on getting trucks in and out quickly – but have you ever stopped to think how neglecting your scale can lead to inaccuracies that eat into your profits?

Here’s a real example: A simple error of one increment (20 lbs.) on a product with a value of $.05 per pound and a duty cycle of 100 weighments per day (assuming 300 working days per year) can lead to $30,000 in annual product loss. For a product valued at $3 per pound, the annual loss skyrockets to $1.8 million!

To make sure that doesn’t happen to you, follow these 7 simple tips:

1. Implement a calibration and inspection agreement – Depending on the requirements and type of weighing device, inspection costs can be as low as $500 annually – a small price to pay compared to the potential loss figures. Two inspections per year should be fine for most scales, but some recycling and solid waste facilities experience heavy traffic that may justify more frequent service.
2. Keep the scale foundation clean – Recycling and solid waste operations generates a lot of debris, so be sure to regularly remove the build-up to avoid scale inaccuracies. A pressure sprayer is a fast and easy way to clear debris and eliminate build-up. Just be sure junction boxes, electronics, and load cells are properly rated to withstand pressure washing.
3. Perform your own inspection of all scale components – Inspect the weighbridge, junction boxes (inside and out), and module connection hardware. Also check load cells, cables, connections, and wiring. Don’t forget to inspect the paint system – it’s a critical barrier against scale corrosion on your weighbridge steel. Also check cover plate connection hardware, and grease load cell cups at recommended intervals.
4. Make adjustments to account for normal thermal expansion at different times of year – Readjust your scale checking system, which keeps the weighbridge in place as it naturally rocks and moves from traffic. Excessive movement adds unnecessary wear to other components, so be sure the checking is properly secure.
5. Keep your scale grounded – Today’s truck scales use sophisticated electronics to communicate weighment data to the instrument. A securely grounded scale is a basic defense from lightning and power surges.
6. Monitor your scale’s use – Abusive and aggressive entrance and exiting of traffic accelerates wear. Traffic signals, speed bumps, and guide post kits at the approach and exit can manage traffic flow and truck speed very effectively for a small investment.
7. Install accessories where necessary – A few well-chosen accessories can prevent truck scale issues. Examples include riser plates, load cell boots, and steel or EPDM rubber belting.

How you implement these best practices is up to you. Whether you partner with a qualified service provider or go it alone, one thing is certain – neglecting your scale costs you profit.

If you want to know more about these best practices and learn more about keeping your scale running efficiently, come by and see us at Waste Expo. We will be at booth #3622. While you’re there, be sure to take a look at the innovations in weighing equipment, including the Talon HVX heavy-duty truck scale, equipped with the innovative Intalogix Lightning/Power Surge Protection system and our FBAS Unattended Remote Weighing Terminal.