Weighbridges have become an almost mandatory tool to help avoid implication in overloading fines since the introduction of the Chain Of Responsibility Legislation that can implicate anyone and everyone involved with the loading, transporting and receiving of goods from an overloaded vehicle.
Due to the many types of weighbridge designs now available, considerable research is necessary to ensure the correct design type, physical positioning and configuration achieves the best results for each individual application. There are many types of weighbridge designs, each with both good and bad points, including:
The most common and cost-effective option. A concrete deck on steel beams, straightforward to purchase and install.
Space is the main consideration. A 20-metre deck needs close to 30 metres of total installed length, plus a metre clearance each side for servicing. Trucks must enter and exit in a straight line and can't turn until fully clear of the departure ramp, so site planning matters. Low-profile load cells can reduce ramp height and lower foundation costs.
The deck sits at ground level with foundations and load cells below. Minimal footprint, trucks can turn off immediately after the deck, ideal for sites where the weighbridge is part of the traffic flow.
The pit is classified as a confined space, requiring access permits, standby personnel, and air quality checks for servicing. A submersible pump and lighting are also needed. Most expensive type to install, but no side clearance is required so placement near buildings is possible.
A middle-ground option. Ground-level deck with an open pit below, avoiding the confined space classification of an in-ground design. No permits or standby personnel needed for servicing.
One metre clearance is still required on each side, which affects placement. Cost sits between aboveground and in-ground. Alternative designs can reduce or remove side clearances, though written exemption from the National Measurement Authority is required.
Single-deck weighbridges measure gross vehicle mass. Multi-deck setups go further, weighing the truck and trailer separately, or displaying individual axle group weights in a single pass.
Most overloading fines relate to axle groups, not total mass. A multi-deck weighbridge lets you maximise carrying capacity while staying within legal limits, an increasingly important tool for transport operations.
A compact option for tight spaces. Each axle or axle group is positioned over the deck individually for a separate reading. Trade-approved versions are available.
Best placed near a loading point to check axle weights before a truck moves to a full-size weighbridge, keeping traffic moving and avoiding delays. Deck sizes and configurations can be engineered to suit specific needs.
The truck drives slowly over the deck and the system captures each axle weight automatically, no stopping required. Can be certified for trade use in the right site conditions.
Accuracy depends on approach quality, level to within ±3mm for the full vehicle length. Works best for short wheelbase trucks or sites with an existing level concrete hardstand.
Built on a rigid metal frame, designed to be moved as site needs change. Newer models are trade-approved and installed on lightweight concrete foundations.
Lower foundation and installation costs than permanent concrete deck weighbridges. Best suited to lighter loads and less frequent use, not recommended for high-demand environments like busy quarries.
With over 25 years of experience, Gwydir Group has become a leader in grain storage, handling equipment, and steel fabrication across Australia. Our extensive industry knowledge allows us to understand the unique challenges faced by agricultural and industrial enterprises, particularly in harsh environments.
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