Weighbridges

Weighbridge calibration and re-verification

Weighbridges weigh lorries, raw materials, waste and harvests, and the results are often used for invoicing. A small percentage deviation then quickly adds up to many tonnes per year. MASSLAB calibrates weighbridges on site with calibrated mass pieces and our own transport. For a legally verified weighbridge, we carry out the re-verification after repair as a Recognised Verifier (Erkend Keurder) under the Dutch Metrology Act.

Request a quote +31 345 786 553
Mass pieces for the calibration of a weighbridge

Why have a weighbridge calibrated?

A weighbridge stands outdoors and takes a lot of punishment: frost, heat, rain, salt, sand and the daily load of heavy vehicles. Dirt between the deck and the foundation, settled supports or damaged load cells cause deviations. You cannot see these on the display.

With periodic calibration you know how accurately your weighbridge really weighs. That matters if you charge by weight, but also for axle loads, stock management, the registration of waste streams and disputes with suppliers or customers. The certificate is your evidence.

How we calibrate a weighbridge

  1. 1

    Preparation

    We agree in advance the weighing range, dimensions and accessibility of the weighbridge, and when it can be taken out of service. On that basis we plan the required mass pieces and transport.

  2. 2

    Inspection

    We check the deck, the space under and beside the bridge, the supports and the connection to the weighing indicator. We report dirt or binding immediately.

  3. 3

    Eccentricity

    Using calibrated mass pieces, we load the weighbridge at different positions: at the supports and distributed along the length of the deck.

  4. 4

    Indication error and repeatability

    We load the weighbridge in increasing and decreasing steps and repeat measurements. Where the capacity exceeds the available weights, we use a substitution load in accordance with EURAMET cg-18.

  5. 5

    Adjustment and certificate

    After consulting you, we adjust the weighbridge and measure again. You receive a certificate with the results before and after adjustment and the measurement uncertainty.

Legally verified weighbridge: re-verification after repair

If the weighbridge is used to charge by weight or for statutory registrations, it must be legally verified. In the Netherlands there is no fixed interval for re-verification. However, the weighbridge must always weigh within the legal tolerances, and re-verification is mandatory after a repair to the weighing mechanism or after a seal has been broken. Examples include replacing a load cell or adjusting the indicator.

MASSLAB is a Recognised Verifier. After a repair or adjustment we carry out the re-verification during the same visit. Let us know the brand, type and serial number of the weighbridge and the indicator in advance; we then check whether we are permitted to carry out the verification for that instrument. Read more about the rules under scale verification and re-verification.

Checking a weighbridge between two calibrations

Between two calibrations you can carry out a simple check yourself. Regularly weigh a reference vehicle with a known and stable weight, in the same way and at different positions. Record the result. If the indication drifts, have the weighbridge calibrated sooner. Also keep the space under and beside the deck free of sand, snow and ice; this is the most common cause of deviations.

Do you temporarily need heavy weights for your own test? You can hire calibrated mass pieces from us, including transport and placement.

Frequently asked questions

How often should a weighbridge be calibrated?

Annually is a customary interval. With intensive use or if you charge by weight, many companies opt for a shorter interval.

Does a weighbridge in the Netherlands have to be periodically re-verified?

No, Dutch law does not specify a fixed interval. The weighbridge must, however, always weigh within the tolerances, and re-verification is mandatory after a repair to the weighing mechanism or a broken seal.

How long is the weighbridge out of service?

That depends on the type and accessibility. We plan the calibration with you in advance so that the weighbridge is unavailable for as short a time as possible.

Which weights do you use?

Calibrated mass pieces and block weights from our own laboratory. Where the capacity exceeds the weights, we supplement the load with a substitution load in accordance with EURAMET cg-18.

Do you also calibrate weighbridges in Belgium?

Yes, we calibrate weighbridges throughout the Netherlands and Belgium. Different rules apply to legal verification in Belgium; contact us to discuss the options.

Buy weights

New calibration weights, optionally with a certificate from our own laboratory.

Heavy weights and mass pieces View range → Block weights View range →

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Schedule a calibration or verification?

Request a quote or call us. We calibrate in our own laboratory in Geldermalsen or on site, throughout the Netherlands and Belgium.

Request a quote Call +31 345 786 553
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