Specifications

Chapter 4: Environmental Considerations
Wind Loading
(12/99) 4-1
4
Environmental Considerations
Because environmental factors can affect the accuracy and safety of a weigh module
system, they must be considered during the design stage. If a scale will be subject to
wind, seismic, or shock loading, you might need to use larger capacity weigh modules
or add restraint devices so that the structure remains stable under extreme conditions.
Wind Loading
Wind loading can have a significant effect on outdoor weigh module applications.
Because the potential for high winds varies from region to region, there is no one safety
factor that can be used for all installations. When sizing weigh modules for an outdoor
system, you should always factor in the local wind speed characteristics (see Figure
4.1). In extreme cases, you might need to add external restraints to keep high winds
from tipping the tank.
Figure 4-1: Wind Speed Characteristics for the United States