Some customers confuse electronic, on-board scales with mechanical air gauges, but that is really like comparing apples and oranges. Air-Weigh scales for air suspensions are accurate to within 1 percent of a DOT-certified scale, and, with practice, drivers get closer to 100 lbs. Air gauges have a 3-5 percent mechanical error already built in at the factory because of tolerances of internal gears and springs. User error plays a large role in air gauge readings – it’s not uncommon for there to be significant inaccuracies when converting the pressure displayed on an air gauge to an approximate weight. The chart below outlines the major differences between an air gauge and Air-Weigh scales.
| Feature |
Air-Weigh |
air gauge |
| Display |
LCD in-cab display shows steer, drive, trailer, GVW & Net Payload. Overweight warnings and alarms. |
Pressures displayed on separate gauges with approximate weights printed on the face. No GVW. |
| Connectivity |
Integrates with J1939, CAN 1708, & RS232 for on-board computers and telematics. |
None. |
| Precision |
Measures suspension pressure down to 1/27th of 1 Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) with digital electronic precision. |
Typical gauge only resolves 2-3 PSI, equivalent to 1500 lbs. |
| Resolution |
Digital display of weight in 20lb increments. |
A 3-5 percent mechanical error built-in, needle width masks up to 1,000 lbs. |
| Ease of Use |
Automatically powers up ready to weigh vehicle. Automatic drop and hook. |
Must view at each gauge location on vehicle. |
| Mechanical Suspension |
Walking beam, trunnion tube, leaf spring, class 5, 6, and 7 suspensions, and more. |
No solution for mechanical suspensions. |
| Compensation |
Precision electronic compensation for temp and altitude. |
No temp or altitude compensation. |
When a vehicle is equipped with Air-Weigh scales, loading decisions are based on real-time weight data. Viewing a vehicle’s weight status via an Air-Weigh digital display is easy and intuitive, leaving little room for human error. Air-Weigh scales measure steer, drive, trailer, GVW and net payload, and offer advanced communication capabilities. Available for both air and mechanical suspensions, Air-Weigh scales bring efficiency to your loading process and add profit to your bottom line.
