LIGHTWEIGHT HYDRAULICS
Page 36
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
Last summer, a number of British operators were invited to try an innovative lightweight, curtain-sided, counter-steering triaxle trailer, fitted with Tridec's HF-S technology, in everyday working situations. A bulk animal feed supplier subsequently specified three such devices. The HF-S steering system, intended for lightweight semi-trailers, is a simple, single-ram hydraulic system for up to two axles. Steered from the kingpin, the closed-circuit hydraulic mechanism has no complex electronics and doesn't require a PTO (power take-off). Because the ram-locating casting is slim, it doesn't sacrifice loadspace and, as the entire mechanism is also very light, there's a minimal payload penalty. Some extra flanges are required to strengthen the swan neck, while the rest of the assembly is bolted in for ease of installation and repair.
With a 4m triaxle spread as pictured), the hydraulics counter-steer the first and last axles, reducing the turning circle and optimising weight distribution for progressively diminishing loads taken from the back of the trailer. HF-S can be used only with single-tyre equipment; minimal maintenance is needed every 25,000km/three months, Tridec claims the concept especially suits trailers with blower equipment, tankers with outlets beneath the tank (particuiarly powder tanks with discharge hoppers), reefers with under-floor fridge units or pallet storage, and any trailer requiring positive steering, but with insufficient room to run mechanical linkage rods from front to rear.