2015 NIST EPO No. 13

Vehicle & Axle Load Scales (Rev 09/14) DRAFT Page 1 of 25

Examination Procedure Outline for

Vehicle and Axle-Load Scales

Part 1 – Electronic Digital Indicating

Part 1, Electronic-Digital Indicating..............................................................................................................................1

Part 2, Mechanical-Analog Indicating .........................................................................................................................13

Appendix A - Maximum Values of Multiple Load Cell Scales...........................................................................21

Appendix B - Strain-Load and Substitution Load Method of Testing.................................................................22

Appendix C - Tests for Motion Detection ...........................................................................................................25

It is recommended that this outline be followed as minimum criteria for examining vehicle and axle-load scales 

(load-receiving elements) equipped with electronic digital indicators. Requirements that apply only to scales 

marked with an accuracy class are indicated with an asterisk. Non-retroactive requirements are followed by the 

applicable date in parentheses.

SAFETY NOTES

When excerpting this Examination Procedure Outline for duplication, the NIST EPO Safety Annex (Safety 

Considerations and Glossary of Safety Key Phrases) should be duplicated and included with this outline.

Safety policies and regulations vary among jurisdictions. It is essential that inspectors or servicepersons be 

aware of all safety regulations and policies in effect at the inspection site and to practice their employer’s safety 

policies. The safety reminders included in this EPO contain general guidelines useful in alerting inspectors and 

servicepersons of the importance in taking adequate precautions to avoid personal injury. These guidelines can 

only be effective in improving safety when coupled with training in hazard recognition and control.

Prior to beginning any inspection, the inspector should read and be familiar with the NIST EPO Safety Annex -

“Safety Considerations and Glossary of Safety Key Phrases." The terms and key phrases in each safety reminder of 

this outline are found in the glossary of the EPO Safety Annex. The inspector is reminded of the importance of 

evaluating potential safety hazards prior to an inspection and taking adequate precautions to avoid personal injury or 

damage to the device. As a minimum, the following safety precautions should be noted and followed during the 

inspection:

Clothing

Electrical Hazards

First Aid Kit

Lifting

Location

also: Wet/Slick Conditions

Chemicals, Petroleum Products, and Hazardous 

Materials

Overhead Hazards

Obstructions

Personal Protection Equipment

e.g., Safety Shoes

Hard Hat - for protection from 

overhead hazards

Safety Cones/Warning Signs

Support - for scale, test weights, 

and test equipment

Transportation of Equipment
2015 NIST EPO No. 13

Vehicle & Axle-Load Scales Part 1 - Electronic Digital Indicating

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2015 NIST EPO No. 13

Vehicle & Axle-Load Scales Part 1 - Electronic Digital Indicating

Vehicle & Axle-Load Scales (Rev 09/14) Page 3 of 25

H-44 General Code and 

Scales Code References

Inspection:

SAFETY REMINDER!!!

− Check the inspection site carefully for safety hazards and take appropriate precautions.

− Learn the nature of hazardous products used at or near the inspection site.

− Use personal protection equipment appropriate for the inspection site.

− Be sure that a first aid kit is available and that the kit is appropriate for the type of inspection 

activity

1. Position of equipment .................................................................................................. G-UR.3.3.

2. Zero-load balance as found. .......................................................................................

If the device is not in balance, the user should be made aware of paragraph UR.4.1. 

and a warning issued if necessary.

Display of digital zero ..............................................................................................

Digital zero indication..............................................................................................

Center of zero indication

Zero-load adjustment................................................................................................

S.1.1., UR.4.1.

G-S.5.2.2.(d) (1/1/86)

S.1.1.1.(a)

S.1.1.1.(b) (1/1/93)

S.2.1.1., S.2.1.2., S.2.1.3.

3. Indicating, and recording elements.

Appropriateness........................................................................................................

Graduations, indications, and recorded representations...........................................

Values of graduated intervals or increments ............................................................

Repeatability.............................................................................................................

Money values, mathematical agreement ..................................................................

Recorded representations, General...........................................................................

Magnified graduations and indications ....................................................................

Rounding (digital values)........................................................................................ .

Manual Gross Weight Entries .................................................................................. 

Tare ..........................................................................................................................

Damping and motion detection ................................................................................

G-S.5.1.

G-S.5.2.

G-S.5.3., S.1.2.*, S.1.2.1.

G-S.5.4.

G-S.5.5.

G-S.5.6., UR.1.3. (1/1/86)

G-S.5.7.

G-.5.2.2.(c)

S.1.12.(1/1/93) (1/01/05), 

UR.3.9.

S.2.3.(1/1/83)

S.2.5., S.2.5.1.(a)

4. Design of weighing devices, 

Accuracy class..........................................................................................................

Multi-interval and multiple range scales, division value..........................................

Adjustable components/Sealing ............................................................................... 

Relationship of load cell vmin to scale division d ......................................................

Assistance.................................................................................................................

S.5.1.*, S.5.2.*

S.5.3.

S.1.10., G-S.8.(1/1/90) 

G-S.8.1.(1/1/10), 

S.1.11.(a) (1/1/79), 

S.1.11.(b) (1/1/90), 

S.1.11.(c) (1/1/95)

S.5.4. (1/1/94)

G-UR.4.4.
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H-44 General Code and 

Scales Code References

Inspection (cont.)

5. Suitability..................................................................................................................... G-UR.1.1., G-UR.1.2.,

UR.1., UR.1.1.(a),

UR.1.1.(b), UR.3.1.,

UR.3.5., UR.3.7.

6. Marking.........................................................................................................................

Nominal capacity (Suitability)...............................................................................

Nominal capacity must satisfy the relationship of:

nominal capacity ≤ CLC x (N - 0.5), where N = the number of 

sections in the scale

S.6., S.6.3., S.6.2.

S.6.1. (1/1/89)

a. Marking requirements - all devices

Identification..........................................................................................................

Name or ID of manufacture ...................................................................................

Model designation .................................................................................................

Model prefix ..........................................................................................................

Nonrepetitive serial number except not built-for-purpose devices........................

Serial number prefix .......................................................................................

Serial number – appropriate abbreviations.....................................................

Version or revision number - not built-for-purpose software-based devices.........

Version or revision number – appropriate abbreviations.......................................

NTEP CC prefix and number.................................................................................

 (for devices that have an NTEP CC)

Remanufacturer information, as appropriate:

name and ID of remanufacturer......................................................................

model number if different from original model number.................................

Visibility of identification......................................................................................

Location of information - not built-for-purpose, software-based devices ......

Lettering.................................................................................................................

Operational controls, indications, and features......................................................

Interchange or reversal of parts..............................................................................

G-S.1.

Retroactive

Retroactive

(1/1/03)

(1/1/68)

(1/1/86)

(1/1/01)

(1/1/04)

(1/1/07)

(1/1/03)

G-S.1.2. (1/1/02)

G-S.1.2. (1/1/02)

G-UR.2.1.1.

G-S.1.1. (1/1/04)

G-S.7.

G-S.6. (1/1/77)

G-S.4.

b. Marking requirements - indicating element not permanently attached or covered 

on separate CC (in addition to marking for all device) .............................................

Accuracy class.......................................................................................................

Nominal capacity...................................................................................................

Value of scale division with nominal capacity, if not apparent .............................

Value of "e" (if different from "d")........................................................................

Temperature limits if other than -10 °C to 40 °C (14°F to 104 °F) ......................

Concentrated load capacity (CLC).........................................................................

Section capacity (Sec Cap)1...................................................................................

S.6.3.

(1/1/86)

Table S.6.3.b. footnote 18

(1/1/83)

(1/1/86)

(1/1/86)

(1/1/89)

Retroactive1

 1 Indicating and weighing/load-receiving elements manufactured prior to 1/1/89 are required to be marked with a section capacity 

rating. However, it is acceptable for these devices to be marked with a CLC instead. It is not permissible, however, to substitute 

a section rating for a CLC on devices manufactured or placed into service on or after 1/1/89.
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H-44 General Code and 

Scales Code References

Inspection (cont.)

Combination vehicle (CLC)/railway scales (Sec Cap)...........................................

Scales designed for special purposes....................................................................

Maximum number of scale divisions (nmax)..........................................................

(1/1/00)

(1/1/86)

(1/1/88)

c. Marking requirements - weighing and load-receiving element not permanently 

attached or covered on separate CC (in addition to marking for all devices)...........

Accuracy class......................................................................................................

Nominal capacity on load receiving element........................................................

Concentrated load capacity (CLC)........................................................................

Section capacity (see note below).........................................................................

Combination vehicle (CLC)/railway scales (Sec Cap) .........................................

Temperature limits if other than -10 °C to 40 °C (14 °F to 104 °F) .....................

Scales designed for special purposes....................................................................

Maximum number of scale divisions (nmax)..........................................................

Minimum verification scale division (emin or d min)...............................................

Note: Indicating and weighing/load-receiving elements manufactured prior to 1/1/89 are 

required to be marked with a section capacity rating. However, it is acceptable for 

these devices to be marked with a CLC instead. It is not permissible, however, to 

substitute a section rating for a CLC on devices manufactured or placed into service 

on or after 1/1/89.

S.6.3.

(1/1/86)

(1/1/89)

(1/1/89)

Retroactive

(1/1/00)

(1/1/86)

(1/1/86)

(1/1/88)

(1/1/88)

d.Marking requirements - load cell with Certificate of Conformance (in addition to 

marking for all devices)............................................................................................

Accuracy class......................................................................................................

Temperature limits if other than -10 °C to 40 °C (14 °F to 104 °F) .....................

Maximum number of divisions (nmax)...................................................................

“S” or “M” for single or multiple cell applications...............................................

Direction of loading, if not obvious......................................................................

Minimum dead load, maximum capacity, safe load limit, and load cell

verification interval, vmin.......................................................................................

Note: Requires information on a data plate attached to the load cell or in accompanying 

document. If a document is provided, the serial number shall appear on the load cell 

and in the document (1/1/88).

Note: Manufacturer’s name or trademark, model designation, model prefix and serial 

number and prefix shall also be marked on both the load cell and in any 

accompanying documents (1/1/91).

S.6.3., S.5.4. (1/1/94)

(1/1/86)

(1/1/86)

(1/1/88)

(1/1/88)

(1/1/88)

(1/1/88)

If possible, observe normal weight determinations that are equal to or greater than the 

weight of the test equipment and test weights to verify the adequacy of the scale supports!
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H-44 General Code and 

Scales Code References

Inspection (cont.)

7. Design of weighing/load-receiving elements...............................................................

Access...........................................................................................................................

S.4. UR.2.8.

UR.2.5

8. Load cell installation and suitability

Full electronic scale .....................................................................................................

Number of scale divisions (n) configured for the scale is less than or equal to nmax

of the indicator or load cells, whichever is less.

For a full electronic scale, the verification scale division, vmin, for the load cells 

shall be less than or equal to the scale division, d, divided by the square root of the 

number of load cells, N:

* When the value of the scale division, d, is different from the verification scale 

division, e, for the scale, the value of e shall be used in the above formula.

Verification scale division, vmin, for mechanical lever system scales with a single 

load cell:

Note: Maximum values of vmin for commonly encountered multiple load cell scales are listed 

in Appendix A in EPO 13.

S.5.4. (1/1/94), 

Appendix A in EPO 13

9. Installation.................................................................................................................... G-UR.2., UR.2.3., 

UR.2.4., UR.2.5., UR.2.6., 

UR.2.8.

If possible, observe normal weight determinations that are equal to or greater than the 

weight of the test equipment and test weights to verify the adequacy of the scale supports!

10. Approaches 

Vehicle scales ..............................................................................................................

Axle-load scales...........................................................................................................

UR.2.6.1. (1/1/76)

UR.2.6.2.

( )

* min N scalemultiple

d

v

×

≤

N

d

v * min ≤
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H-44 General Code and 

Scales Code References

Inspection (cont.)

11. Maintenance, use, and environmental factors.

Facilitation of fraud......................................................................................................

Environment.................................................................................................................

Operation .....................................................................................................................

Maintenance.................................................................................................................

Maximum load.............................................................................................................

Single draft vehicle weighing ......................................................................................

Manual gross weight entries ........................................................................................

Minimum load..............................................................................................................

Scale modification .......................................................................................................

G-S.2.

G-UR.1.2.

G-UR.3.1.

G-UR.4.

UR.3.2.

UR.3.3.

UR.3.9.

UR.3.7.

UR.4.3.

12. Assistance...................................................................................................................... G-UR.4.4.

Pretest Determinations:

1. Tolerances:

Acceptance/maintenance .......................................................................................

Application:

Scales marked with an accuracy class ............................................................

Tolerance values:

Scales marked with an accuracy class ............................................................

Scales not marked with an accuracy class ......................................................

Both marked and unmarked scales .................................................................

Discrimination .......................................................................................................

Repeatability..........................................................................................................

Agreement of indications.......................................................................................

Note:Many “TN” tolerances apply to unmarked vehicle scales. See NIST HB 44 Table T.1.1. 

for a list of applicable “TN” paragraphs applicable to unmarked scales.

G-T.1., G-T.2.

T.N.2.1., T.N.2.3., 

T.N.2.4.

T.N.1.1, T.N.1.2.

T.1.1./Table T.1.1., 

T.N.3.1./Table 6 

(Accuracy Class III L), 

T.N.3.2.

T.N.7.2.

T.N.5.

T.N.4.1., T.N.4.2., 

T.N.4.4.

2. Determine maximum test load to be applied during test: A test load not to exceed 

marked concentrated load capacity (or for scales manufactured prior to January 1, 

1989, the marked section capacity) may be applied to any section or between any 

two sections using the normal prescribed test pattern specified in N.1.3.3.1. A test 

load of 100 percent of capacity may be distributed over the entire platform.
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H-44 General Code and 

Scales Code References

Pretest Determinations (cont.):

3. Minimum test weights and test loads............................................................................N.3., Table 4

SAFETY REMINDER!!!

− Carefully inspect electrical supply lines, cables, chains, hydraulic lines, etc., on test equipment 

for wear or damage (e.g., electric weight carts, lifting equipment, etc.). 

− Protect test equipment cables, power cables, hydraulic lines, etc., from damage during use.

− Correct potentially hazardous conditions before use (e.g., obstacles, water or other slippery 

conditions).

Test Notes:

SAFETY REMINDER!!!

− Wear appropriate personal protection equipment such as safety shoes to prevent possible 

injury from falling weights and slipping on slick surfaces and a hardhat to prevent injury 

from overhead hazards.

1. Check repeatability of, and agreement between, indications throughout the test ........ T.N.5., G-S.5.2.2.(a),

G-S.5.2.2.(c)

2. Recheck zero-load balance each time the test load is removed.................................... N.1.9., G-UR.4.2.

3. If the scale is equipped with a printer, print ticket at each test load. If the device 

will print only one load without returning to “zero,” check printer with at least four 

different loads at convenient times during test.............................................................

Also verify that any options for obtaining a recorded representation are appropriate. 

The customer may be given the option of not receiving the recorded representation. 

If the system is equipped with the capability, the customer may also be given the 

option of receiving the recorded representation electronically in lieu of or in 

addition to a hard copy.................................................................................................

Check effectiveness of motion detection (See test procedure in Appendix C). ...........

G-S.5.6., UR.1.3. (1/1/86)

G-S.5.6.

S.2.1.2.(a), S.2.5.1.(a),

4. If, during the conduct of the test, the performance of the device is questionable with 

respect to the zone of uncertainty and the width of zero, additional tests may be 

conducted to determine compliance............................................................................. N.1.5. (1/1/86)* N,1.5.1.*,

S.1.1.1.
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H-44 General Code and 

Scales Code References

Test Notes (cont.):

5. If the device is equipped with operational features such as manual weight entries, 

programmable tare, multiple tare memory, weigh-in/weigh-out capability, or 

multiple weighing elements, check proper operation and appropriateness. ................ G-UR.4.1, G-UR.4.2, 

S.4.3., S.1.12. (1/1/93) 

(1/1/05), UR.3.9., See also 

Appendix C for EPO 13

Test:

SAFETY REMINDER!!!

− WEAR SAFETY SHOES

− USE PROPER LIFTING TECHNIQUES

1. Discrimination test at or near zero load, if deemed necessary and if environmental

conditions can be controlled ........................................................................................ N.1.5. (1/1/86)*, N.1.5.1.*

2. Test for proper configuration of automatic zero-tracking mechanism, if device is so 

equipped:

Scales manufactured between January 1, 1981 and January 1, 2007.....................

Scales manufactured on or after January 1, 2007 ..................................................

Means to disable AZT............................................................................................

S.2.1.3.1.

S.2.1.3.2.

S.2.1.3.3. (1/1/01)

3. If equipped with a semi-automatic zero-setting mechanism (push button), test

effectiveness of motion detection unless the mechanism is enclosed in a cabinet. .......

Check proper design of tare auto-clear, if device is so equipped..................................

Note: On a vehicle scale, this requires a complete weighing transaction that includes the 

gross weight determination, input of tare, and net weight calculation. 

4. Establish correct zero-load balance.

5. Increasing-load and shift (section) test...........................................................................

S.2.1.2.(a), See Appendix 

C for EPO 13E (motion 

detection)

S.2.3. (including auto 

clear Note 1/1/83)

N.1.1., N.1.3.3.
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H-44 General Code and 

Scales Code References

Test (cont.):

Minimum shift (section) test: Conduct at least one shift test with a minimum test load of 12.5 percent of 

scale capacity anywhere on the load-receiving element using the prescribed test patterns and maximum test 

loads specified below. 

Prescribed test pattern: An area of 1.2 meters (4 feet) in length and 3.0 meters (10 feet) in width or the 

width of the scale platform, whichever is less. When loading the scale for testing, one side of the test pattern 

shall be loaded to no more than one-half of the concentrated load capacity before loading the other side. An 

example of a possible test pattern is shown in the following diagram.

4’ 4’ 4’ 4’ 4’

Section

1

Midway between 

sections 1 and 2

Section 

2

Midway between 

sections 2 and 3

Section 

3

For test patterns less than 1.2 meters (4 feet) in length: Determine the maximum loading by the 

formula: [(wheelbase of test cart or length of test load ÷ 48 in) x 0.9 x CLC]

For test patterns that exceed 1.2 meters (4 feet): The maximum test load applied shall not exceed 

CLC x the largest “r” factor in Table UR.3.2.1. for the length of the area covered by the test load. 

Multiple pattern loading: To test to the nominal capacity, multiple patterns may be simultaneously 

loaded in a manner consistent with the method of use. 

Test load: The maximum test load applied to the prescribed test pattern shall not exceed the concentrated load capacity (or for scales manufactured prior to January 1, 1989, the rated section capacity).

Other designs: Special design scales and those that are wider than 3.7 meters (12 feet) shall be tested in 

a manner consistent with the method of use but following the principles described above. 

 

Note: When testing scales manufactured prior to January 1, 1989, caution should be exercised when loading test 

weights equivalent to the rated section capacity onto areas between sections.

Note: When loading the first section to be tested, it is recommended that observations be made at each increment 

of test weight application.

6. Prescribed test pattern and test loads for combination vehicle/livestock scales with 

more than two sections. .................................................................................................. N.1.3.3.2.

A minimum test load of 5000 kg (10,000 lb) or one-half of the rated section capacity or CLC, whichever is 

less, shall be placed, as nearly as possible, successively over each main load support as shown below. Two 

section livestock scales shall also be tested consistent with N.1.3.7.
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H-44 General Code and 

Scales Code References

= main load bearing point

7. RFI/EMI Test.To test for effects of EMI and RFI using equipment found at the site 

in a manner that is usual and customary2

.................................................................... G-N.2., G-UR.3.2., 

G-UR.4.2., G-UR.1.2., 

N.1.6., T.1.1., T.N.9.*

8. Decreasing-load test, at one-half of maximum test load.............................................. N.1.2., N.1.2.2.

9. Zero-load balance change ............................................................................................ N.1.9., G-UR.4.2

10. Strain-load or substitution test on at least two sections; ..............................................

For strain-load tests: 

Position vehicle or some other object, material, etc. of unknown weight on one end 

of the load-receiving element of the scale. Use error weights to determine reference 

point within the displayed division before adding test weights. 

N.1.11, N.1.12., N.3.

(See Appendix B for 

EPO 13)

11. Discrimination test at maximum test load, if deemed necessary and if environmental 

conditions are controlled.............................................................................................. N.1.5. (1/1/86)*, 

N.1.5.1.*

12. Over capacity test (if practical).................................................................................... S.1.7.

13. Return to zero - check zero-load balance change......................................................... N.1.9., G-UR.4.2.

 2

Procedures have been developed by the Scale Manufacturers Association and were adopted by the National Conference on Weights and Measures as part of 

the Final Report of the Committee on Specifications and Tolerances 63rd annual meeting, 1978. A revised SMA “Recommendation on Electrical Disturbance –

SMA RED-0499” are available at www.scalemanufacturers.org by selecting the link to SMA Standards on the SMA homepage. SMA intends this document as an 

educational tool for manufacturers, distributors, inspectors, and customers. 

Pos. 1 Pos. 2 Pos. 3

Pos. 6 Pos. 5 Pos. 4

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Examination Procedure Outline for

Vehicle and Axle-Load Scales 

Part 2 - Mechanical-Analog Indicating

It is recommended that this outline be followed for vehicle and axle-load scales equipped with weighbeams and/or 

mechanical dials. Requirements that apply only to scales marked with an accuracy class are indicated with an 

asterisk. Non-retroactive requirements are followed by the applicable date in parentheses.

SAFETY NOTES: See EPO 13, Part 1.

H-44 General Code and 

Scales Code References

Inspection:

SAFETY REMINDER!!!

− Check the inspection site carefully for safety hazards and take appropriate precautions.

− Learn the nature of hazardous products used at, or near, the inspection site.

− Use caution when moving in wet, slippery areas.

− Use personal protection equipment appropriate for the inspection site.

− Position safety cones and warning signs if necessary.

− Be sure that a first aid kit is available and that the kit is appropriate for the type of inspection 

activity.

1. Position of equipment. .................................................................................................. G-UR.3.3.

2. Zero-load balance as found...........................................................................................

If the device is not indicating a zero-balance condition, the user should be made 

aware of paragraph UR.4.1. and a warning issued if necessary. 

S.1.1., S.1.5.1., S.2.1.1., 

S.2.1.2., UR.4.1.

3. Indicating and recording elements. ...............................................................................

Weighbeams................................................................................................................

Poises...........................................................................................................................

Graduations, indicators, capacity indication................................................................

Scale division, value (d) and number(n)......................................................................

Tare division value ......................................................................................................

Tare mechanism ..........................................................................................................

G-S.5.

S.1.5.

S.1.6.

S.1.3., S.1.4., S.1.7.

S.1.2. (1/1/86)*, UR.1., 

UR.1.1.(b), UR.1.3. 

(1/1/86)

S.2.3. (1/1/83)

S.2.3.

Damping means........................................................................................................... S.2.5.

Adjustable components ............................................................................................... S.1.10.
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Inspection (cont.):

4. Suitability. ...................................................................................................................

Customer readability, if applicable .............................................................................

Adjustable components ...............................................................................................

G-UR.1.1., G-UR.1.2., 

UR.1., S.5.2. (1/1/86)*, 

UR.1.1., UR.3.1.*, 

UR.3.2. 

G-UR.3.3.

S.1.10.

5. Design of weighing devices, accuracy class................................................................. S.5.*, S.5.4. (1/1/94), 

S.1.10., G-S.8. (1/1/90), 

G-UR.4.5. 

6. Marking. ......................................................................................................................

Nominal capacity (Suitability) ....................................................................................

Nominal capacity must satisfy the relationship of:

nominal capacity ≤ CLC x (N - 0.5),

where N = the number of sections in the scale

a. Marking requirements - all devices

Identification ......................................................................................................

Name or ID of manufacturer ..............................................................................

Model designation ..............................................................................................

Model prefix .......................................................................................................

Nonrepetitive serial number ...............................................................................

Serial number prefix ...........................................................................................

Serial number – appropriate abbreviation...........................................................

NTEP CC prefix and number (for devices that have an NTEP CC)...................

Remanufacturer information, as appropriate:

name and ID of remanufacturer ....................................................................

model number if different from original model number ...............................

Lettering. ............................................................................................................

Operational controls, indications, and features...................................................

Visibility of identification ..................................................................................

Interchange or reversal of parts..........................................................................

S.6. 

S.6.1. (1/1/89)

G-S.1.

Retroactive

Retroactive

(1/1/03)

(1/1/68)

(1/1/86)

(1/1/01)

(1/1/03)

(1/1/02)

(1/1/02)

G-S.7.

G-S.6. (1/1/77)

G-UR.2.1.1.

G-S.4.

b.Marking requirements - indicating element not permanently attached or covered 

on separate CC (in addition to marking for all devices)......................................

Accuracy class....................................................................................................

Nominal capacity................................................................................................

Value of scale division with nominal capacity, if not apparent..........................

Value of "e" (if different from "d") ....................................................................

S.6.3.

(1/1/86)

Table S.6.3.b. Note 18

(1/1/83)

(1/1/86)
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Scales Code References

Inspection (cont.):

b.Marking Requirements (cont.)

Maximum number of scale divisions (nmax) .....................................................

Concentrated load capacity (CLC) .....................................................................

Section capacity (Sec Cap) (see note below)......................................................

Combination vehicle (CLC)/railway scales (Sec Cap).......................................

Scales designed for special purposes..................................................................

Note: Indicating elements manufactured prior to 1/1/89 are required to be marked with a section 

capacity rating. However, it is acceptable for these devices to be marked with a CLC 

instead. It is not permissible to substitute a section rating for a CLC on vehicle scales 

manufactured or placed into service on or after 1/1/89.

c. Marking requirements - weighing/load-receiving element not permanently 

attached or covered on separate CC (in addition to marking for all devices) ..........

Location of Marking Information.......................................................................

Accuracy class....................................................................................................

Nominal capacity on weighing/load-receiving element .....................................

Maximum number of scale divisions (nmax)........................................................

Minimum verification scale division (emin or d min).............................................

Concentrated load capacity (CLC) .....................................................................

Section capacity (Section Cap) (see note below)................................................

Combination vehicle (CLC)/railway scales (Section Cap).................................

Scales designed for special purposes..................................................................

Note: Weighing/load-receiving elements manufactured prior to 1/1/89 are required to be marked 

with a section capacity rating. However, it is acceptable for these devices to be marked 

with a CLC instead. It is not permissible, however, to substitute a section rating for a CLC 

on devices manufactured or placed into service on or after 1/1/89.

 (1/1/88)

(1/1/89)

Retroactive

(1/1/00)

(1/1/86)

S.6.3.

S.6.2. 

 (1/1/88)

(1/1/89)

(1/1/88)

 (1/1/88)

(1/1/89)

Retroactive

(1/1/00)

(1/1/86)

7. Weighing and load-receiving elements .......................................................................

Access..........................................................................................................................

S.4., UR.2.8.

UR.2.5.

8. Installation ................................................................................................................... G-UR.2., UR.2.3.,

UR.2.4.

SAFETY REMINDER!!!

− If possible, observe normal weight determinations that are equal to or greater than the weight 

of the test equipment and test weights to verify the adequacy of the scale supports!

9. Approaches 

Vehicle scales...............................................................................................................

Axle-load scales ...........................................................................................................

UR.2.6.1. (1/1/76)

UR.2.6.2.
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Inspection (cont.):

10. Maintenance, use, and environmental factors.

Facilitation of fraud ......................................................................................................

Environment .................................................................................................................

Operation......................................................................................................................

Maintenance .................................................................................................................

Maximum load .............................................................................................................

Single draft vehicle weighing.......................................................................................

Minimum load ..............................................................................................................

Scale modification........................................................................................................

11. Assistance ....................................................................................................................

G-S.2.

G-UR.1.2.

G-UR.3.1., G-UR.3.2.

G-UR.4.

UR.3.2.

UR.3.3.

UR.3.7.

UR.4.3. 

G-UR.4.4.

Pretest Determinations:

1. Tolerances.

Acceptance/maintenance. ............................................................................................

Application. .................................................................................................................

Principles.....................................................................................................................

Tolerance values:

Scale marked with an accuracy designation.

Maintenance tolerances...................................................................................

Acceptance tolerances.....................................................................................

Sensitivity (nonautomatic indicating scales)...................................................

Discrimination (automatic indicating scales)..................................................

Agreement of indications................................................................................

Repeatability. ..................................................................................................

Scale not marked with an accuracy class. ................................................................

Maintenance tolerances...................................................................................

Acceptance tolerances.....................................................................................

Sensitivity requirement (SR) (nonautomatic indicating scales)......................

Agreement of indications................................................................................

Repeatability. ..................................................................................................

Note: Many “T.N.” tolerances apply to unmarked vehicle scales. See NIST HB 44 

Table T.1.1. for a list of applicable “T.N.” paragraphs applicable to unmarked 

scales.

G-T.1., G-T.2.

T.N.2.1., T.N.2.3. 

T.N.1.1., T.N.1.2.

Table 6 (Class III L), 

T.N.3.2. 

T.N.6., T.N.6.1., 

T.N.6.2.

T.N.7.1.

T.N.4.1., T.N.4.2., 

T.N.4.3., and T.N.4.4., 

(optional T.N.4.5.) 

T.N.5.

T.1.1./Table T.1.1.

T.N.3.1.

Table 6 (Class III L)

T.N.3.2.

T.2.1., T.2.2., T.2.7., T.3.

T.N.4.1., T.N.4.2., 

T.N.4.3., and T.N.4.4.

T.N.5.
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Pretest Determinations (cont.):

2. Determine maximum test load to be applied during test: a test load not to exceed 

marked Concentrated Load Capacity (or for scales manufactured prior to January 1, 

1989, the marked Section Capacity) may be applied to any section or between any 

two sections. A test load of 100 percent of capacity may be distributed over the entire 

platform.

3. Minimum test weights and test loads............................................................................ N.3., Table 4

SAFETY REMINDER!!!

− Wear appropriate personal protection equipment such as safety shoes to prevent possible 

injury from falling weights and slipping on slick surfaces and a hard hat to prevent injury 

from overhead hazards.

Test Notes.

SAFETY REMINDER!!!

− Carefully inspect electrical supply lines, cables, chains, hydraulic lines, etc., on test equipment 

for wear or damage (e.g., electric weight carts, lifting equipment, etc.)! 

− Protect test equipment cables, power cables, hydraulic lines, etc., from damage during use!

− Correct potentially hazardous conditions before use (e.g., obstacles, water or other slippery 

conditions)!

Note: If the scale uses a beam indicating element (e.g., full- or type-registering beam), balance 

small error weights on the platform, the smallest weight equal to the minimum tolerance 

value and the total value of the weights being equal to the tolerance value at maximum 

test load.

1. Check repeatability of, and agreement between, indications throughout the test..........

2. Recheck zero-load balance each time test load is removed...........................................

3. If the scale is equipped with a type-registering (T.R.) beam or a printer,print ticket at 

each test load.................................................................................................................

T.N.4. T.N.5., G-S.5.4.

N.1.9., G-UR.4.2.

G-S.5.6., UR.1.3. 

(1/1/86)*, 

G-S.5.2.2.(b)
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Scales Code References

Test: 

SAFETY REMINDER!!!

− WEAR SAFETY SHOES!

− USE PROPER LIFTING TECHNIQUES!

1. Sensitivity test at zero load (for weighbeams and balance indicators only) ...............

Discrimination (dials and balance indicators with graduations having a specific 

value only) ...............................................................................................................

2. Increasing-load and shift (section) test. ........................................................................

a. If beam scale, test at not less than two points on each weighbeam.

b. If automatic-indicating scale, test at not less than three points on reading face, 

including all possible quarters of the reading-face capacity. Test all unit 

weights possible.

c. Minimum shift test ...............................................................................................

N.1.4.

N.1.5. (1/1/86),* T.N.7.1.

N.1.1., N.1.3.

N.1.3.3.1.(a)

• Minimum shift test: Conduct at least one shift test with a minimum test load of 12.5 percent of scale 

capacity anywhere on the load receiving element using the prescribed test patterns and maximum test loads 

specified below. 

• Prescribed test pattern: An area of 1.2 meters (4 feet) in length and 3.0 meters (10 feet) in width or the 

width of the scale platform, whichever is less. When loading the scale for testing, one side of the test 

pattern shall be loaded to no more than one-half of the concentrated load capacity before loading the other 

side. An example of a possible test pattern is shown in the following diagram.

 

4’ 4’ 4’ 4’ 4’

Section

1

Midway between 

sections 1 and 2

Section

2

Midway between 

sections 2 and 3

Section 3

• For test patterns less than 1.2 meters (4 feet) in length: Determine the maximum loading by the formula: 

[(wheelbase of test cart or length of test load ÷ 48 in) x 0.9 x CLC]

• For test patterns that exceed 1.2 meters (4 feet): The maximum test load applied shall not exceed CLC x the 

largest “r” factor in Table UR.3.2. for the length of the area covered by the test load.

• Multiple pattern loading: To test to the nominal capacity, multiple patterns may be simultaneously loaded 

in a manner consistent with the method of use. 
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Test (cont.)

• Test load: The maximum test load applied to the prescribed test pattern shall not exceed the concentrated 

load capacity (or for scales manufactured prior to January 1, 1989, the rated section capacity).

• Other designs: Special design scales and those that are wider than 3.7 meters (12 feet) shall be tested in a 

manner consistent with the method of use but following the principles described above. 

Note: When testing scales manufactured prior to January 1, 1989, caution should be exercised when loading test weights 

equivalent to the rated section capacity onto areas between sections.

Note: When loading the first section to be tested, it is recommended that observations be made at each increment of test 

weight application.

3. Prescribed test pattern and test loads for combination vehicle/livestock scales with more than two sections.

A minimum test load of 5000 kg (10,000 lb) or one-half of the rated section capacity or CLC, whichever is less, 

shall be placed, as nearly as possible, successively over each main load support as shown below. Two section 

livestock scales shall also be tested consistent with N.1.3.7.

= Load Bearing Point

4. Decreasing-load test (automatic-indicating only), at one-half of maximum test load. 

(for dials, test at no less than one-half dial-face capacity)........................................... N.1.2., N.1.2.2.

5. Strain-load or substitution test on at least two sections...............................................

• Strain-load Tests: Follow the procedures in Appendix B for EPO 13. 

Tolerances apply only to the test weights or substitution test load.

• Substitution Test: Follow the procedures in Appendix B for EPO 13. 

Tolerances are applied to the substitution test load. 

N.1.11., N.1.12., N.3., 

T.N.3.11., T.N.3.12.

Position 1 Position 2 Position 3

Position 6 Position 5 Position 4
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Test (cont.)

6. Sensitivity test at maximum test load (weighbeams and balance indicators only)......

Discrimination (dials and balance indicators with graduations having a specific 

value only)...................................................................................................................

7. Remove test load and determine any zero-load balance change..................................

8. Remove error weights and establish correct zero-load balance.

N.1.4. 

N.1.5. (1/1/86),* T.N.7.1.

N.1.9., G-UR.4.2.
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Appendix A - Maximum Values of Multiple Load Cell Scales

(Table values are in pounds.)

Full electronic scales

Example: For a vehicle scale with four sections (eight load cells) and a displayed scale division of 20 lb, the 

maximum value permitted for each load cell is 7.1 lb. The calculation is shown below. If the value marked on the 

load cell is less than or equal to the value computed for the vmin, then the load cell is considered to comply with 

T.N.8.1.3.

No. of Load 

Cells

Scale Division (lb)

1 2 5 10 20 50 100

Minimum vmin rating for each cell (lb)

2 0.71 1.41 3.54 7.07 14.1 35 70

4 0.50 1.00 2.50 5.00 10.0 25 50

6 0.41 0.82 2.04 4.08 8.2 20.4 41

8 0.35 0.71 1.77 3.54 7.1 17.7 35

10 0.32 0.63 1.58 3.16 6.3 15.8 32

12 0.29 0.58 1.44 2.89 5.8 14.4 29

14 0.27 0.53 1.34 2.67 5.4 13.4 27

Mechanical Scales with single load cell

Example: Calculate the multiple of the lever system from the ratios marked on the levers. Suppose the multiple for 

a vehicle scale is 400:1 and that the scale has a scale division of 20 lb. Then the maximum value for the vmin of the 

load cell is 0.05 lb. The calculation is shown below. If the load cell is marked with a vmin less than or equal to the 

calculated value, then the load cell is considered to comply with T.N.8.1.3.

lb rounded to lb lb lb

N

d

v 7.07 7.1

2.83

20

8

* 20 min ≤ = = =

lb lb

N scalemultiple

d

v 0.05

1 400

20

( )

* min = × = ×

≤
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Appendix B - Strain-Load and Substitution Load Method of Testing

(Excerpt from NBS Handbook 94 – Out-of-print)

and 

Strain-Load Testing Using Error Weights

(Excerpt from OWM Newsletter Archive)

When Test-Weight Load is Inadequate. In the test of a large-capacity scale where the amount of test weights 

available is less than the "used" or full capacity of the scale, it is necessary for the inspector to resort to a 

substitution method of test (which may be referred to as a “build-up” or “step” test), or to the use of from one to 

several “strain” loads in addition to the available load of test weights. The former method is generally the better 

when carefully carried out but will usually consume a considerably greater amount of time than the strain-load 

method.

Substitution Method of Testing. The principle of the substitution method of test is the successive substitution for 

the test-weight load of a load of any available material, whereby a total known load of any number of times the 

value of the available test weights is gradually built up, the scale under examination being utilized for the 

determination of each substituted load. For example, assume a 40 000-pound vehicle scale that must be tested with 

only 10,000 pounds of test weights. The test would be made in the ordinary way up to the point where the 

distributed load on the platform is 10,000-pounds - all of the available test weights. By means of small weights 

and/or the movement of a poise, if necessary, the scale would then be brought to a readily reproducible condition of 

balance, such as the exact coincidence between the indicator and some graduation, or a weighbeam that just fails to 

“bump” when released. Then the 10,000 pounds of test weights would be removed, great care being exercised not to 

disturb the scale mechanism in any way that would affect the balance condition, and any material available would be 

carefully added to the platform until the former condition of balance had been reproduced; assuming the scale under 

test to be capable of repeating its indications, it is apparent that there would now have been added to the platform 

just 10,000 pounds of material within that degree of accuracy determined by the ability of the scale to duplicate the 

original balance condition. In other words, there would now be available 20,000-pound known load consisting of 

10,000 pounds of test weights and 10,000 pounds of other material. If now any poise that had been moved were 

restored to its original position and any small weights that may have been utilized in establishing the reproducible 

balance condition were to be removed, the scale would be in just the same condition as though the test had just been 

started with 20,000 pounds of test weights and had proceeded to the point where 10,000 pounds of that amount had 

been used.

The test would then proceed as before until the platform load reached 20,000 pounds, when another substitution 

would be made in the same manner as has been outlined. [No more than three substitutions shall be used during 

substitution testing, after which the tolerances for strain load tests shall be applied to each set of tests. (HB 44 2.20 

Table 4 Note 2)]

It may well be repeated that in making these substitutions the greatest care must be exercised each time weights are 

removed and material is added, to avoid disturbing the scale mechanism in any way that would affect the balance 

condition; similar care must likewise be used in establishing and duplicating the balance condition on which the 

substitution depends for its accuracy. Some error is inevitable at each substitution, and unless this error is held down 

to a minimum, the accumulated error after several substitutions may reach serious proportions.

Another caution that must be observed during a substitution test is never to change the adjustment of the regular 

balancing means of the scale during the progress of the test. When a temporary balancing operation is made 

necessary in order to establish a reproducible balance condition prior to removal of the test-weight load, the 

inspector must always restore the original conditions that prevailed when the scale was originally balanced at zero 
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Appendix B (continued)

after the substitution is completed and before proceeding with the test; this cannot be done with precision if the 

adjustment of the regular balancing means has been changed, hence the instruction that these temporary balancing 

operations be performed by means of poise movement or weights added to platform or counterpoise hanger. When a 

full-capacity beam scale has an error of overregistration and is equipped with a notched fractional bar, it may be 

necessary to accomplish this temporary balancing by setting the fractional poise out one or more notches until the 

beam is balanced low, and then adding enough small weights to the platform to produce the desired balance; when 

an automatic-indicating scale has a similar error, enough small weights may be added to the platform to bring the 

indicator into coincidence with the next forward graduation so that a precise reading can be made3.

Strain-Load Method of Testing. (NBS Handbook 94 discussion on Strain-Load Method has been deleted. WMD 

recommends using the procedure outlined in the newsletter article following the excerpts of Handbook 94.)

Tolerance Application on Substitution and Strain-Load Tests. There is an important difference between the 

substitution method and the strain-load method in the manner of applying the tolerances. In the substitution method, 

the entire load on the load-receiving element of the scale at the time of making any test observation is regarded as 

known load, and any observed error is an error on the total load on the scale. In the strain-load method, observed 

errors are errors on the test-weight load only, since before each application of the test-weight load the strain load of 

unknown value has been balanced out; accordingly, the tolerances to be applied are to be selected according to the 

value of the test-weight load in each instance of an accuracy observation under the strain-load method.

Strain-Load Testing Using Error Weights

(Excerpt from OWM Newsletter Quarterly Archive at http://www.nist.gov/pml/wmd/pubs/upload/A-009.pdf

or http://www.nist.gov/pml/wmd/pubs/newsletter-archives.cfm)

In the strain-load test of a scale, an unknown quantity of material or objects is applied to the load-receiving element 

of a scale to establish a reference load to which test weights are then added. The strain-load test is used to determine 

the accuracy of a portion of the total weighing range of a scale. Field personnel frequently utilize strain-load tests 

when testing large capacity scales so that accuracy can be verified in the weighing ranges where many of these 

scales are typically used. Strain-load tests are also frequently utilized when the amount of test weight available for 

testing is less than the minimum test loads required under Table 4 of the Scales Code in NIST Handbook 44. 

To properly perform a strain-load test, error weights should be used to determine a reference point for the unknown 

load prior to adding the test weights to complete the test. Failure to determine a specific reference point using error 

weights can cause unacceptable errors in the performance results of this particular test. OWM frequently receives 

inquiries regarding the use of error weights in testing scales. The paragraphs below describe procedures for 

conducting strain-load tests, including procedures for determining necessary reference points, on scales having beam 

and digital indication. 

 

3 See the OWM article on the use of error weights at the end of this appendix to determine the breakpoint between adjacent 

scale divisions on an electronic or mechanical automatic indicating scale.
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Appendix B (continued)

Using Error Weights on a Digital Scale. To perform the strain-load test on a scale having digital indications, error 

weights are used to establish, as a reference point, the center of the displayed division representing the unknown 

load. Once the center of the displayed division has been established, test weights can then be added and scale errors 

determined by direct reading of the indication. The procedure for conducting a strain-load test on a scale having 

digital indications is as follows:

1. Apply 10 error weights, each having a value of 0.1 d, to the platform and zero the scale. 

2. Apply the unknown load. Record the displayed value and identify it as the weight of the unknown load.

3. Remove error weights from the platform in 0.1 d increments until the indication just begins flashing to the 

next lower division. 

4. In a separate location on the platform begin a second group of error weights by adding back all of the error 

weights that were just removed in the previous step. 

5. Continue adding additional error weights to this second group in 0.1 d until the displayed indication just 

begins flashing to the next higher division. 

6. Total the error weight in the second group and remove one-half of it from the platform. Doing so places the 

indication at the proper reference, i.e., in the center of the displayed division and properly establishes your 

reference point for the strain-load test. 

7. Apply known test weights in predetermined increments or all at one time. 

8. Add the weight of the unknown load (determined in step 2) to the value of the known test weights applied. 

9. Scale error is determined by subtracting the summed value from step 8 from the displayed indication. 

After performance results have been determined and recorded for all of the test weights, return weights equal to one 

division to the scale platform, remove the known test weights and the unknown load, and verify that the scale returns 

to zero. 
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Appendix C - Tests for Motion Detection

A digital electronic device must have a motion detection capability that prevents the device from zeroing (pushbutton zero) or taring (pushbutton tare) part of a load when the semi-automatic zero or tare key is activated at the 

same time that a load is added, changed, or removed from the scale.

A digital electronic scale equipped with a printer must have a motion detection capability that prevents the scale 

from printing weight values before the weight display has stabilized within specified limits. This reduces the 

possibility of recording incorrect weight values. The limits for motion detection are:

(a) plus or minus 3 scale divisions for:

a. axle-load, 

b. railway track, 

c. vehicle scales, 

d. combination vehicle/livestock scales, 

e. combination vehicle/railway track scales and 

f. hopper (other than grain hopper) scales with a capacity exceeding 22 000 kg (50 000 lb); and

(b) plus or minus 1 scale division for all other scales.

The following procedure is recommended to test the effectiveness of motion detection for printing, push-button zero, 

push-button tare, and storing a weight value in a memory register.

For higher capacity scales, apply or remove a load of greater than 15d while activating the following functions (e.g., 

pressing the applicable pushbutton, switch, etc.):

− semiautomatic (pushbutton) zero-setting, 

− semiautomatic (pushbutton) tare, 

− storing a gross, net or tare weight value, or 

− printing a ticket, receipt, invoice, etc. 

It is important to insure that peak oscillations of greater than 15d are induced. These tests can usually be performed 

as test weights are being placed on or removed from the weighing/load-receiving element.

Indicated, stored, and recorded weight values must be within 3 divisions (3d) of the value obtained under static 

conditions for vehicle, axle-load, and railway track scales. All recorded values shall be within applicable 

tolerances.