What is a weighbridge?

A weighbridge, or vehicle scale or truck scale , is a measuring instrument specifically designed for weighing large industrial vehicles and their cargo. In most cases, these are used for commercial purposes and are therefore also calibrated. Today, modern weighbridges are equipped with advanced electromechanical components; in the past, weighbridge manufacturers used purely mechanical weighing mechanisms. These weighbridges were designed to be installed over a pit containing levers and other mechanical components. These components made it possible to connect the weighing platform to a balancing mechanism that could determine the vehicle’s weight.

However, this type of design proved to be limiting due to the separation between the load cell and the compensation element. Subsequent developments led to the integration of load cells into bridge scales, thereby creating a completely self-contained unit.

In addition, by using load cells in conjunction with an analog-to-digital module (ADM), the vehicle’s weight can be displayed digitally. This method is far more accurate than the outdated measurement methods of the past.

The use of PCs and network technology enables operators to monitor or even control a weighbridge from a remote location. Remote operation provides additional flexibility for the staff working with the weighbridges.

ESSMANN | Weighing & Automation is one of the leading weighbridge manufacturers

As one of Germany’s leading suppliers of weighbridges, we manufacture a complete product line of weighbridges, software, and measuring devices for above-ground and in-ground scales. Our modular approach ensures that there is always a weighbridge that’s right for your application. Our robust weighbridges, made of steel and steel-concrete composites, are characterized by unmatched durability and are now used around the world under the harshest conditions.

Equipment of a weighbridge

With over 160 years of experience, we know that many applications require more than just a simple weighbridge. That’s why we offer a wide range of accessories and software that form the foundation for complete weighbridge systems. Our range of peripheral devices includes: driver-operated terminals, card readers and barcode scanners, traffic barriers, traffic lights, license plate cameras, and intuitive weighing software.

All of our weighbridges meet the requirements for legal-for-trade weighing. ESSMANN | Scales & Automation is certified to perform conformity assessments (manufacturer’s initial calibration) of weighbridges and offers comprehensive weighing equipment service and calibration support for all types and manufacturers of weighbridges, backed by a Germany-wide network of on-site service technicians.