Pierced-frame lightweights from Highway
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New super-lightweight semi-trailers have been added to the range offered by Highway Trailers (Great Britain) Ltd., Southampton. A prototype is already in service with G. L. Baker (Transport) Ltd. And although this trailer is 32ft 6in. long and is plated for operation at 30 tons g.v.w., it has the remarkably low unladen weight of 2 tons 19cwt.
Large-diameter holes are cut in the webs of the main frames to further lighten the assembly. Main frames are of high-yieldstress steel and are joined by tubular crossmembers of the same diameter as the lightening holes. One of these members is used as an air storage tank for the braking system. Dimensions of the main beams are 16th deep by 5.5in. wide. Light alloy crossbearers are pierced through the main frame at 2ft intervals and set to permit an 18mm. marine ply floor to range flush with the top flange of the main frame. Light alloy side raves can be supplied either raised or flushfitted.
Rubery Owen M-type suspension is used, with 5in.-diameter axles carrying 163 by 7in. S-cam brake units and Super Single 18 by 22.5in. tyre equipment. Three-line air system, multi-pull handbrake, 2ft headboard and single-speed landing gear are standard fittings.
Highway intends to extend these weightsaving methods into its single-axle trailer range also.