Regular Belt Scale Maintenance
Regular belt scale maintenance is imperative to make sure your scale stays in proper working order and lasts for a long time. This maintenance should include clearing the scale area of debris, checking the condition of the idlers, check the scale frame and the conveyor belt, and zero testing the scale daily. Before maintenance can even begin make sure you install your belt scale in the correct location, checkout this blog post to learn more.
Clean Around The Belt Scale Frame
The most important part of belt scale maintenance is keeping the weigh frame clean. Debris in the scale area is generally caused by material falling off the conveyor belt and building up. This material can get wet and even freeze. Material buildup will cause issues like mechanical binding, inaccurate zero test results, and incorrect totalizing.
If a belt scale weigh frame has just five pounds of buildup, the scale could register several extra tons every hour, causing a false totalization. In colder weather, we recommend running the conveyor belt for 10 to 15 minutes without a load to warm up the belt and make it more pliable.
Don’t Forget About The Belt Scale Speed Sensor
The speed sensor on the belt scale also needs periodic attention. The speed sensor (wheel sensor on return belt or a shaft-mounted encoder), it must be clear of debris use.
Keep Your Belt Scale In Top Shape
Performing a daily zero test on the belt scale is recommended and will help the user determine if and when the scale needs to be inspected. In good weather, the zero test should have normal results close that are showing good repeatability. If the zero test isn’t showing good repeatability, the belt scale should be checked for ice buildup.
After clearing debris away from the belt scale frame, perform another zero test, and then run a span test (or static calibration test). If the span test results are not normal compared to periodic span tests, it is best to call a certified scale dealer to perform a thorough inspection and any calibrations necessary.
Belt Scale Calibration Program
Having a regularly scheduled calibration program with your scale company is always recommended to keep your belt scale weighing and performing at top shape. At the end of the day, performing a material calibration is the best method to use.
To learn more about the different belt scale manufactures, checkout this blog post.
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.