Technical training seminars are available through Rice Lake Weighing Systems.
Course descriptions and dates can be viewed at www.ricelake.com/training
or obtained by calling 715-234-9171 and asking for the training department.
Rice Lake continually offers web-based video training on a growing selection
of product-related topics at no cost. Visit www.ricelake.com/webinars.
1.0Introduction
Note
Important
CAUTION
WARNING
DANGER
The RoughDeck® Floor Scales are fully electronic, low profile load receivers. The RoughDeck scales are available
in sizes from 30 in x 30 in (.76 m x .76 m) to 96 in x 120 in (2.44 m x 3.05 m), and capacities from 2K- to 30K-lb
(1000–15000 kg).
All models use four corner-mounted, FM-approved load cells, wi
protection. Also included is a signal-trim summing board enclosed in a stainless steel, NEMA 4X junction box for
any necessary corner corrections. All models come pre-trimmed; corner corrections should not be necessary.
Load cell cables are enclosed in conduit through the main channe
each corner, eliminating the possibility of cable damage in portable applications. Also useful for portable
applications are threaded corner holes in the deck for removable eye bolts to allow lifting the scale from above with
chains. Because of the possibility of foot and load cell damage from forklift tines, the scale should always be lifted
from above with chains through the eye bolts.
The adjustable feet are used to allow leveling the scale to make up
installations, two of the four feet can be held in place on the floor with optional floor mounting plates to guard
against deck movement.
Other available options include custom frames for pit
installations, and access ramps for all sizes and models of the
RoughDeck. Decks designed for use in pits can be ordered
for adjusting foot height with a screwdriver from above. See Section 4.4 on page 12 for replacement part and
optional equipment part numbers.
1.1Model Designations
The model identification label is located on the side of the frame next to the slide-out junction box. Include both
model number and serial number when ordering replacement parts.
th the cells recessed into the frame channels for
ls, and held down with replaceable cable ties near
for minor floor irregularities. For permanent
with holes drilled in the deck directly above each foot
A duplicate label is affixed inside the junction box opening.
The following model designations are used to describe the different scale versions:
HP (
Rough-n-Ready)— Mild steel, high precision, NTEP-certified as “legal-for-trade” and FM-approved load
cells.
HP-H
HC
— 20K- and 30K-lb capacity HP models.
— Similar to HP models, the HC includes overload stops at each corner of the platform. This model is
approved by Measurement Canada (formerly LMB) and available for use in Canada.
1. 2S af et y
Safety Symbol Definitions
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious
injury.
Indicates a potentially hazar
death, and includes hazards that are exposed when guards are removed.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not
injury.
Indicates information about proced
equipment or corruption to and loss of data.
dous situation that, if not avoided could result in serious injury or
avoided may result in minor or moderate
ures that, if not observed, could result in damage to
Introduction1
General Safety
WARNING
Do not operate or work on this equipment unless you have read and understand the
instructions and warnings in this manual. Failure to follow the instructions or heed the
warnings could result in injury or death. Contact any Rice Lake Weighing Systems dealer for
replacement manuals. Proper care is your responsibility.
Before attempting to operate this unit, make sure every individual who operates or works with this unit has
read and understands the following safety information.
Failure to heed may result in serious injury of death.
DO NOT allow minors (children) or inexpe
DO NOT operate without all shields and guards in place.
DO NOT jump on the scale.
DO NOT use for purposes other
DO NOT place fingers into slots or p
DO NOT use any load bearing component that is worn beyond 5% of the original dimension.
DO NOT use this product if any of the components are cracked.
DO NOT exceed the rated load limit of the unit.
DO NOT make alterations or modifications to the unit.
DO NOT remove or obscure warning labels.
DO NOT use near water.
Before opening the unit, ensure the power cord is disconnected from the outlet.
Keep hands, feet and loose clothing away from moving parts.
then weight taking.
rienced persons to operate this unit.
ossible pinch points.
1.3Operating Requirements
The following are basic operating requirements for the RoughDeck floor scale.
Electrical Grounding
For systems where the scale is connected to a 115 VAC circuit, the indicator must be directly connected to an earth
ground with a ground interface cable of no more than 3Ω resistance throughout its length.
Load Cell Excitation
Rated Excitation: 10 VDC
Maximum Excitation: 15 VDC
Grade Level Requirements
The supporting surface for the four feet of the scale must be level within 1/4 in. of horizontal.
End Load Capacity
200% full scale at 1000 lbs
100% full scale at 2000 lbs, 5000 lbs, and 20,000 lbs
Use two 3/4” eye bolts, insert into threaded holes in
opposite corners of top plate for lifting.
Small Platform
(5
’
x 5’ or smaller and/or 10,000lb or less capacity)
Use one 1/2” eye bolt, insert into threaded hole in
center of top plate for lifting.
WARNING
Important
2.1Installation Overview
Standard installation of the RoughDeck floor scale consists of the following steps:
1. Select a site
2. Check levelness and smoothness of site
3. Unpack scale
4. Adjust the four feet on the scale
5. Install mounting plates to the floor
6. Connect cable to junction box and indicator
7.
Calibrate the unit
Pit installations and access ramps are described in Section 2.6 and Section 2.7 on page 7.
2.2Site Preparation
The scale must not be loaded beyond its capacity, even momentarily. Do not select a site where overweight loads
would have to maneuver to avoid crossing the platform. Avoid areas where the scale might receive damaging side
impacts from wheels or forklift tines, or shock damage from falling objects. Avoid areas where water may damage
a scale not meant for a washdown environment.
The interface cable between the scale and the indicator must be protected against crushing, cutting, or moisture
damage. If the chosen site h
conduit, will be necessary.
In operation, the scale must be level within 1/4 inch. Either choose a site
avoid excessive shimming, or modify the floor at the chosen site to meet this standard.
as such potential dangers, some method of protection, such as running the cable in
where the floor is close to this standard to
2.3Unpacking
Remove all packing material and inspect scale for visible damage caused during shipment.
All Rough
when lifting the scale with chains or using a spreader bar.
Deck models have threaded holes in the deck to allow installation of eye bolts with shoulders for use
Lift the scale only with a properly designed spreader bar as shown in Figure 2-1.
Lifting force must be vertical to avoid bending the eye bolts.
Eye bolts must always be inserted into the top of the scale.
the top plate facing up and the eye bolts securely attached through the nuts welded to the
bottom side of the top plate. Lifting from the bottom of the plate could cause nuts to break
loose and the scale to fall.
Lifting should always occur with
Figure 2-1. Proper Lifting Technique
Installation3
2.4Assembly
4.50"
.812" DIA
MOUNTING PLATE
SCALE DECK
FOOT
The following paragraphs present instructions for installing and adjusting the scale feet and mounting plate
installation.
2.4.1Installing and Adjusting Feet
For load cell protection during shipping, the scale feet are shipped detached from the load cells. The feet are
secured to the bottom of the shipping pallet along with the load cell cable, strain relief fitting and product literature.
Remove all parts from the envelope.
Screw one foot into each load cell and turn all t
of the deck. Then unscrew each foot three complete turns.
Place a spirit level on the deck. Adjust any
on those corners until they just contact the floor surface. When all feet are in contact with the floor, check the deck
with the spirit level to be sure the scale is within 1/4 inch of level.
2.4.2Mounting Plate Installation
For permanent applications, the scale should be secured to the floor to prevent sideways movement. Two mounting
plates, with holes that slightly exceed the foot diameter, are available as an option for that purpose.
Lift the scale so that the feet are appro
ximately one inch off the floor. Slide mounting plates under two diagonally
opposed feet. Lower the scale back to the floor, and position the plates as shown in Figure 2-2 so that the bolt down
holes are accessible from above.
Using the mounting plates as templates, drill pilot holes into the floor for suitable anchor bolts. Bolt th
the floor using 1/2 inch anchor bolts (3/4 inch bolts for 20K and 30K-lb capacity scales). Recheck foot adjustment
and deck level after this operation.
For installations using access ramps, mounting plates are not necessary as the ramps have built-in mounting plates
cure the scale feet.
to se
he way in until the foot touches either the load cell or the underside
high corners not in contact with the floor by further unscrewing the feet
The indicator terminal strip is used to connect the main cable to the indicator which is shown in Figure 2-3
Determine the indicator’s load cell inpu
terminal into the junction box and make the connections. The following table shows the correct junction box
connections using the cable color code.
t connections from the operating manual. Run a cable from your indicator
Cable Color CodeJunction Box
Red+ Excitation
Black- Excitation
Green+ Signal
White- Signal
BrownShield
Yell ow+ Sense
Blue- Sense
Table 2-1. Junction Box Connections
Figure 2-3. Junction Box Indicator Terminal
2.5.1Electrical Interface to Indicator
Twenty feet of 6-wire cable to connect the scale to the weight indicator is supplied with each scale. The cable must
be routed to the indicator in a manner that will protect the cable from damage. Two methods of cable protection in
non-washdown applications are shown. When planning cable routing with either of these two methods, leave a
loose coil of excess cable under the scale to facilitate future lifting of the scale for servicing or cleaning.
When the interface cable is protected and in its final position, complete connections to the indicator. See indicator
installation manual for wiring information.
Figure 2-4. Electrical Interface to Indicator
Installation5
If necessary, trim corners as described in Section 3.2 on page 8.
COVER PLATE
1:24 SLOPE
LOAD CELL
CUP
FOOT ASSEMBLY
GROUT
Note
Check all strain relief fittings for tightness.
Slide the junction box assembly into the cu
tout and secure it with the two #10 x 3/8 inch screws provided.
2.6Pit Installation
Any of the RoughDeck models can be installed in a shallow pit using the optional RoughDeck Pit Frame. Optional
height-adjustment holes are available. The following site considerations and pit frame drawings are meant only as
a brief overview of the principles involved with mounting the scale in a floor-level pit. The pit must be installed in
a suitable poured-concrete foundation according to standard construction practices.
Figure 2-5. Section Showing Installed Heavy Capacity (HP-H Model) RoughDeck and Pit Frame
Site Considerations
Debris, floor sweepings, or material spills may accumulate in the pit and interfere with scale operation. You should
periodically clean the pit. All RoughDeck models have threaded holes for eye bolts so the scale can be easily lifted
from the pit.
Weight overloads, even momentary ones such as driving a loade
d forklift over a scale corner, will damage load
cells. Plan the pit location out of main traffic areas to prevent such accidental damaging overloads.
A 1:24 slope is recommended for the
Corner pads must be fully grouted.
pit, with full grouting under the corner pads as shown in Figure 2-4.
Access ramps for RoughDeck floor scales are designed to bolt to the floor, with built-in mounting plates that attach
to the scale feet. When used with access ramps, side movement of the scale is automatically eliminated, and no
other mounting plates are necessary.
Access ramps can only be attached to the scale on one of the tw
longitudinal axis of the load cells. For example, the scale shown in Figure 2-5 could have an access ramp on the left
side as shown, and/or on the right side. The top and bottom sides, will not
o scale sides that are perpendicular to the
accept the ramp mounting plates.
Figure 2-6. Optional Access Ramps
See Tabl e 4-3 and Table 4-4 on page 12 for information about available access ramps.
Installation7
CAUTION
JP4
JP2
PT4
PT3
JP3
PT1
EXP
PT2
JP1
1
CELL4
1
CELL1
1
CELL3
1
CELL2
IND
-EX
-SI
SHD
+SI
+EX
M
R
N
I
-SI
S2C
I
A
G
+EX
+SI
-SI
SHD
-EX
I
S
G
A
L
T
+SI
M
S
I
N
L
T
R
+EX
-EX
-SI
SHD
+SI
+EX
+SI
-EX
-SI
SHD
-EX
SHD
+SE
-SE
+EX
Potentiometers
Jumper Locations
JP1 and JP2
Shaded
Jumper Locations
JP3 and JP4
Shaded
Potentiometers
Figure 3-1. Trim Potentiometers
3.0Adjustments and Calibration
3.1Mechanical Adjustments
To accommodate minor floor unevenness, scale feet can be used to adjust scale height up or down a fraction of an
inch. Adjust the feet by hand (lift the scale corner slightly with a pry bar) until all feet are contacting the floor
equally. No jam nuts are supplied for locking the feet, as there is a slight decrease in accuracy when jam nuts are
tightened. If the application requires the feet to be secured, use Teflon tape or Loctite.
When adjusting scale feet, use care to prevent scale foot from bottoming out against the underside of the
load cell. Also, the foot stem may be damaged by bendi
maximum height adjustment.
When height adjustments are complete, recheck level of the deck with a spirit level. The deck must be level within
1/4".
3.2Corner Correction
All assembled RoughDeck scales are delivered
with the junction box corner-trimmed. Corner
trimming is only necessary after replacing a load
cell.
To calibrate the scale, the output from each load
cell must be matched by adjusting the signals
with potentiometers at the junction box. This
process is known as trimming.
Remove the junction box cover and identify the
correct load cell terminal
corner (labeled CELL 1, CELL 2, and so on).
See Figure 4-4 on page 11 for scale deck corner
numbering.
The indicator must be connected and calibrate
approximately, but it need not indicate the exact
weight value. A test weight will be required. The
recommended test weight for all RoughDeck
models is 25% of scale capacity: for example,
500 lbs for 2K-lb models, 5000 lb for 20K-lb
models.
With no weight on the scale, zero the indicator.
Then turn all four
potentiometers (shaded areas
of Figure ) to increase the reading until a clicking sound is heard
maximum signal from each load cell.
With all potentiometers at full signal, place the test weight ov
the process for each of the other three corners. The load cell with the lowest corner reading will be used as a
reference point and will not be trimmed.
Next, place the test weight over one of the other three co
output down to the reference cell output. Repeat this procedure with the other two high corners.
Adjustments are somewhat interactive, and adjusting the
especially in smaller scale decks. Rezero the indicator and repeat the test until all corners read within ±.1% of the
test weight used.
3.3Calibration Procedure
Refer to the indicator manual to determine correct calibration procedures.
It is recommended that the scale be “exercised” before calibration to be certain t
scale to near capacity two or three times.
Then, with no load on the scale, place the indicator in its calibration
place test weights on the platform equal to 70% - 80% of the scale’s capacity. If several weights are used, they
should be evenly distributed around the platform. Perform a span calibration.
Remove the test weights and check the zero reading. Re
corresponding to each
d
er one corner and record the indicated weight. Repeat
rners and use that cell’s potentiometer to adjust the cell
three higher outputs may affect the reference cell output,
Indicator fuse blown.Replace fuse. Check for cause.
Interface cable cut or disconnected.Repair.
Signal leads incorrectly installed at indicator.Install according to indicator installation manual
Indicator faulty.Service indicator
Load cell connections faulty.Check cable connections in junction box and at
Vibration near scale.Remove source of vibration or move scale.
Platform not level to within 1/4 inchLevel scale by adjusting
Load cell or cable water damageReplace
Debris under load cells or platformClean
Indicator faultyUse simulator to test indicator for stability.
Indicator not properly adjusted to zero: Zero the indicator according to indicator
Platform binding.Obtain adequate clearance for free platform
Indicator not calibrated.Calibrate according to indicator manual and
Load cells faulty.Test and replace load cells if necessary.
Feet touching deck underside.Adjust feet downward to provide clearance.
Table 4-1. Troubleshooting
in
dicator
necessary.
Service indicator
manual.
movement.
Section 3.3 on page 8
.
feet or shimming if
4.2Periodic Maintenance
The space between the platform side and pit frame, and the surface beneath the platform must be periodically
cleaned to prevent debris build up. More frequent cleaning of these areas is necessary with scales mounted in pits.
Do not attempt to use scales with load cells that are not hermetically sealed in washdown applications.
Water damage is a common cause of failure in non-hermetically-sealed load cells. Use care with high
pressure steam
but the elevated temperatures may cause incorrect readings until the unit cools to room temperature.
wash downs for hermetically-sealed load cells. The steam may not damage the load cells,
Service Information9
4.3Load Cell Replacement
CELL 4
CELL 3CELL 2
CELL 1
1 4
2 3
Lift scale with chains and proper spreader bar and remove foot, then remove defective load cell. Disconnect load
cell cable from junction box and cut cable ties. When the cable is freed, pull cable out of the scale frame channels.
Figure 4-1. Load Cell Assembly
Follow the directions given below to install new load cells.
For Canadian HC models, overload stops should be loosened two full turns before installing
reset overload stops after load cell installation, place a weight equal to 25% of the load cell capacity on the affected
scale corner. Screw in the overload stop until the indicator reading changes. Then back off the overload stop 1/6
turn. Repeat for each corner where the load cell has been changed.
Lay out the four load cells near the corners whe
re they are to be installed. Thread the cable from each load cell
through the conduit tubing in the frame and into the junction box according to the wiring diagram in Figure 4-2.
Note that in Figure 4-2 both the scale and the junction box are viewed from the bottom. T
cell/junction box terminal matching, see the numbers on the terminals inside the junction box and the corner
mbering diagram in Figure 4-4.
nu
new load cells. To
o verify correct load
Figure 4-2. Bottom View of Scale
Check that the threaded holes for the load cell screws are free of debris. Use compressed air to blow out holes if
necessary. Position load cells with alignment arrows point up toward the deck and loosely install the hex head cap
screws provided, as shown in Figure 4-1. If the base is used with a pit frame or access ramp, position the l
to maintain the dimensio
first):
n shown in Figure 4-3. With the torque wrench, tighten all bolts as follows (outboard bolts
oad cell
•2K–10K-lb capacities: Torque to 75 ft-lbs.
•20K-lb and 30K-lb capacities: Torque to 250ft-lbs.
Route the load cell cables near each corner so that the cable is free from possible contact with each foot. Hold the
cable in position with the adhesive-backed cable ties supplied in the hardware kit.
Do not cut load cell cables. Coil extra ca
ble before it enters the junction box, tie with cable ties, and insert the
coils into the channel.
After coiling excess cable, pass each individual end of load cell cable through its
cord grip in the NEMA 4X
junction box.
Corner correction trimming and calibration is
necessary after load cell replacement. Follow instruction in
Section 3.2 and Section 3.3 on page 8.
4.3.1Load Cell Wiring to Junction Box
The four load cells are each wired to their respective terminals in the junction box according to the corner
numbering system shown in Figure 4-4, and the coloring code in Table 4-2.
Pull excess cable out of the junction box enclosure and tighten the cord
grip dome nuts with a wrench. To be
watertight, the nuts must be tightened to the point where the rubber sleeving begins to protrude out of the nut.
Finally, pull on each of the four cables to make sure that they do not slip.
Figure 4-4. Corner Numbering - Top View
Color Cable CodeJ-Box Terminal
Red+ Excitation
Black- Excitation
Green+ Signal
White - Signal
Bare or ClearShield
Table 4-2. Load Cell Wiring
Service Information11
4.4Replacement Parts List and Accessories
The following table list the pit frames, access ramps, and replacement part numbers for HP, HC, and HP-H model
RoughDeck floor scales.
4.4.1Pit Frames
Tabl e 4-3 shows the pit frames available for RoughDeck scales.
Platform SizePit Frame for Model
ft.mHP/HCHP-H 20kHP-H 30k
2.5 x 2.5.76 x .7618757
3 x 3.92 x .9218759
4 x 41.22 x 1.22187613959539608
4 x 51.22 x 1.53187653959639609
4 x 61.22 x 1.83187673959739610
4 x 71.22 x 2.133959839611
5 x 51.53 x 1.53187633959939612
5 x 61.53 x 1.831876939600
5 x 71.53 x 2.13187713960139614
6 x 61.83 x 1.833960239615
6 x 81.83 x 2.4439604
7 x 92.13 x 2.7439605
7 x 102.74 x 3.053960639619
8 x 102.44 x 3.053960739620
Table 4-3. RoughDeck Pit Frames
4.4.2Access Ramps
Tabl e 4-4 shows the standard access ramps available for the 2K-10K lb-capacity RoughDeck scales.
Tabl e 4-5 shows the standard access ramps available for the 20K and 30K lb-capacity RoughDeck scales (HP-H
models).
Platform SizePit Frame for Model
ft.mHP/HCHP-H 20kHP-H 30k
2.5 x 2.5.76 x .7618757
3 x 3.92 x .9218759
4 x 41.22 x 1.22187613959539608
4 x 51.22 x 1.53187653959639609
4 x 61.22 x 1.83187673959739610
4 x 71.22 x 2.133959839611
5 x 51.53 x 1.53187633959939612
5 x 61.53 x 1.831876939600
5 x 71.53 x 2.13187713960139614
6 x 61.83 x 1.833960239615
6 x 81.83 x 2.4439604
7 x 92.13 x 2.7439605
7 x 102.74 x 3.053960639619
8 x 102.44 x 3.053960739620
Table 4-5. RoughDeck Pit Frames
Service Information13
RoughDeck Limited Warranty
Rice Lake Weighing Systems (RLWS) warrants that all RLWS equipment and systems properly installed by a
Distributor or Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) will operate per written specifications as confirmed by the
Distributor/OEM and accepted by RLWS. RoughDeck fabricated platforms and weldments are warranted against
defects in materials and workmanship for five (5) years. Load cells and all other components are warranted for two
(2) years.
RLWS warrants that the equipment sold hereunder will conform to the current written specifications authorized by
RLWS. RLWS warrants the equipment against faulty workmanship and defective materials. If any equipment fails
to conform to these warranties, RLWS will, at its option, repair or replace such goods returned within the warranty
period subject to the following conditions:
•Upon discovery by Buyer of such nonconformity, RLWS will be given prompt written notice with a
detailed explanation of the alleged deficiencies.
•Individual electronic components returned to RLWS for warranty purposes must be packaged to prevent
electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage in shipment. Packaging requirements are listed in a publication,
“Protecting Your Components From Static Damage in Shipment,” available from RLWS Equipment
Return Department.
•Examination of such equipment by RLWS confirms that the nonconformity actually exists, and was not
caused by accident, misuse, neglect, alteration, improper installation, improper repair or improper testing;
RLWS shall be the sole judge of all alleged non-conformities.
•Such equipment has not been modified, altered, or changed by any person other than RLWS or its duly authorized repair
agents.
•RLWS will have a reasonable time to repair or replace the defective equipment. Buyer is responsible for
shipping charges both ways.
•In no event will RLWS be responsible for travel time or on-location repairs, including assembly or
disassembly of equipment, nor will RLWS be liable for the cost of any repairs made by others.
No terms, conditions, understanding, or agreements purporting to modify the terms of this warranty shall have any
legal effect unless made in writing and signed by a corporate officer of RLWS and the Buyer.