How to Install a Weighbridge As a Revenue Generator
If you're always on the lookout for a new commercial opportunity, you may realise that you can make some money by providing accurate weight measurements for certain categories of vehicles on the road today. After all, many vehicles need to conform with certain specifications in order to remain legal or to maximise their capability from their own commercial perspective. There are a limited number of facilities available to cater to this category of traffic, and if you have the available space, why not consider introducing a weighbridge of your own to act as a revenue generator? What types of bridge are available and what are the advantages of each?
Initial Thoughts
Firstly, you need to determine whether you are going to rent or buy one of these pieces of equipment and figure out how much space you have available to cater for its installation.
Pit
There are effectively three different types of weighbridge, and one of the most popular is the pit-mounted solution. In order to install, you will need to have a dedicated pit installed within your premises, according to the dimensions provided by your supplier. The weighbridge will sit within the pit, and its surface will be level with the surrounding floor. It may cost you a little more to prepare for this introduction, but once installed, it will not get in the way of any other activity when it is not in use. This type of weighbridge is safe and relatively easy to use and will not need any other safety equipment once it's been installed.
Surface
If you're not able to dig down to install a pit, then you may have to think about introducing a surface mounted weighbridge. This type of solution will be elevated, and each vehicle will need to access using specially prepared ramps. While they are somewhat easier to install and will require less preparation, they do have a larger footprint, and you will need more room for maneuverability, as larger vehicles access and leave the platform.
Modular
In the third scenario, you can install a set of weighbridges in a modular configuration. With this solution, you will have two or more individual modules that can be used in conjunction with each other, in order to cater for larger vehicles. Sometimes, one module can be used to weigh the smallest vehicle and you can kickstart your project with this cheaper option before buying additional modules as you scale up.
More Information
Once you have decided how you want to approach the project get in touch with your nearest weighbridge supplier, so they can show you all the available options.