Rice Lake Combination System - Precision Loads On-Board Weighing Systems - Manual (Page 27)

Applications 23
Extended Body Angles
As shown in the diagrams above, it is sometimes recommended to utilize body angles which extend up to 35 inches
(89 cm) or more to give a particular body subframe more rigidity. In some extreme cases, installers may consider
running a section of angle the entire length of a body runner for maximum installation rigidity. Plug welds should
be utilized on all applications of extended body angles as well as gusseting where appropriate. Skip welding of
these extended angles is recommended and 90 degree welds are to be avoided. Extended angles should be
contoured to pick up body cross members or body gussets which should then be welded to the body angle.
Frame Gloving
Glove sections also provide frame reinforcement, and these can be externally welded or internally bolted.
Sometimes when thinner structural members are used in trailer fabrication, such as stainless steel tank trailers,
gloving a section from 1/4" up to 7/16" or 1/2" is the best solution for providing adequate rigidity. Glove sections
should always extend 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) beyond the end of a load cell body angle bracket. Plug welds
are advised for welded glove sections. Avoid 90 degree welds. See Figure 4-19.
Reinforcing with Fishplate
If body or body frame structures are less than 3/8" (9.5 mm), a general rule of thumb is that it will require
reinforcing. Applying sections of plate for this reinforcing (fishplating) is a means to meet rigidity requirements
and have a total body or frame thickness up to 7/16 or 1/2 inch. As in the case with frame gloving, the application
of fishplate should extend 10 to 12 inches beyond the end of a load cell body angle bracket. Plugs welds are
recommended for fishplating, and 90 degree welds must be avoided.
Structural
Member
Structural
Member
Structural
Member
Typical Fishplate
Doubler Typical Outer Glove
Doubler
Typical Inner Glove
Doubler
Figure 4-19. Fishplate and Frame Gloving Example
Cross Strapping
To "box in" an installation and provide additional rigidity, the installer may want to consider welding cross straps
between parallel body frame rails at each location where load cells are installed. These transversally mounted
straps may be simple 3/8" x 4" wide material welded to the underside of each body runner
4.2.4 Underbody Load Cell Mounting
Precautions
• Do not allow weld current to flow through load cells as this can damage a load cell.
• Protect load cell cables from damage, pinching and exposure to welding slag and heat.
• Avoid weld overheating which can warp steel and cause alignment or pre-load problems.
• Deburr all surfaces of brackets and avoid sharp edges.
Typical Installation
1. Make sure that the truck and body are pressure washed or steam cleaned before installation (retrofit scale
installations).
2. Remove rear wheels and other items which obstruct open access to the truck chassis and body subframe
(such as fuel tanks, battery box, toolbox, air dryer, etc.). Disconnect the battery terminals. Clean the body
runners well so they can be welded.
3. Fabricate four small steel blocks (six for 6-point installations), approximately 4" x 3" x 1" thick. These
spacer blocks are to be positioned between body and chassis. Deburr these blocks.