The type approval of On Board Mass units by Transport Certification Australia has been announced and will commence soon. The weigh scales/mass systems, now to be classified as OBM units, use load cell or air pressure technologies for measuring axle group masses and GVM for trucks.
“Transport operators have adopted the use of OBM systems as a way to manage commercial obligations and mass compliance,” said Chris Koniditiosis, CEO of TCA. “However, OBM units have not always met expectations, with problems being cited about their ongoing accuracy, performance and quality systems.
“These limitations will be addressed through the availability of type approved OBM units. TCA will type approve OBM units against a nationally agreed performance-based functional and technical specification, to provide transport operators with greater confidence in their use.”
The type approval process will be setting functional and technical requirements for accuracy, security, as well as installation, calibration and maintenance. TCA began evaluating OBM units back in 2008, developing a draft functional and technical specification. It has also been involved in consultation with roads and transport agencies as it has worked towards the type approval process. TCA also researched on-the-ground results from deployment of OPM units in industry and government.
“For example, the operation of OBM units linked to the Intelligent Access Program by the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads has unlocked access for a new generation of Performance Based Standards vehicles on the Toowoomba to Port of Brisbane corridor,” said Koniditiosis. “The emergence of type approved OBM units in the marketplace will provide tangible benefits to transport operators.
“Type approval for IBM units will be supported with operational and maintenance guidelines, providing the necessary assurance to transport operators in their use. TCA is now encouraging parties within the OBM industry to begin their engagement with TCA in preparation for the start of the type approval process.”