What are the scales that weigh moving trucks and will be installed on highways and routes in Buenos Aires?
A modern highway may seem invulnerable to the passage of thousands of heavy vehicles. However, when a truck travels with excess weight, the damage can be invisible at first, but devastating over time : cracks, subsidence, and deformation of the pavement that harm all users and cost millions to repair.
On the other hand, an overloaded truck doesn't brake properly , which increases road risk twice over. To combat this problem, several countries have incorporated a key technological solution: Weigh in Motion (WIM) scales.
And Argentina will soon be adding this technology, as AUBASA is preparing a tender to install dynamic scales on the Buenos Aires–La Plata Highway , Route 2, and Route 6.
WIM scales are systems that allow freight vehicles to be weighed while in motion, without having to stop the truck. Typically installed under the asphalt or at toll stations, they are composed of sensors that detect axle load, speed, and vehicle identification, integrating all of this data in real time.
When a truck passes over the scale, the system measures:
- The dimensions of the vehicle.
This data is automatically sent to a control center . If the system detects excess weight (in accordance with current regulations), operators order road crews to stop the truck, where a static weight check is performed, which serves as legal evidence.
The main objective of WIM scales is to improve the efficiency of load control and protect road infrastructure, but they also have positive impacts on road safety, transparency, and the economy:
- They avoid stopping vehicles in compliance, reducing delays and congestion.
- They automatically detect offenders, making inspectors' work more efficient.
- They reduce premature wear of the pavement, which is usually designed for specific maximum loads.
- The risk of road accidents associated with overloading (longer braking times, rollovers, etc.) is reduced.
Most modern systems are connected to secure wireless networks or fiber optics, and many integrate digital management platforms. Data can thus be used for real-time action, statistical analysis, infrastructure planning, or predictive alert generation.
In addition to the tender being prepared by AUBASA, the system will be implemented throughout the province. "The plan is part of the scales that the Ministry of Infrastructure is deploying throughout Buenos Aires," explains José Arteaga, president of AUBASA.
"The plan is to work on technology to gain the data intelligence that will allow us to be more effective in prevention efforts and thus preserve the province's road infrastructure," adds Pablo Ceriani, General Manager of the state-owned company.
The system, AUBASA explains, operates 24 hours a day and can detect repeat offenses and alert traffic police or detention centers located up to 20 kilometers ahead of the scale.
Clarin
