iflin alarm will ensure safe coupling
Page 16
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
Trailer coupling manufacturer VBG is to launch a "safe" coupling warning system for artics, possibly at the CV Show next March.
The device, which is said to be suitable for any trailer, will include an in-cab display to alert the driver if the fifth wheel jaws are not properly closed around the semi trailer kingpin. It has been developed by the Swedish company from a unit developed for drawbar rigs.
VBG UK general sales manager Roger Darling says there have been a number of instances where drivers have reversed a truck too far over the fifth wheel and dropped the kingpin in front of it, and even of the pin snagging on the locking handle.
"Luckily, generally, most trailers are last in the yard, or the driver catches them— so some fleet engineers might be correct in saying that they don't have a problem with antic couplings," he says. "But we do hear the stories."
According to Darling, the system will need to be developed in conjunction with the chassis makers--not least to make sure drivers respond to any warning light.
"ft still comes down to the driver who can over-ride any device, and unless you build in interlocks they'll still take the risk," he says. "From the OEM point of view things like this are often perceived as an 'add-on' where something like a low-pressure warning device Is more important. But securing the truck to the fifth wheel properly is vital."
VBG will show its safe coupling system early next year. As yet no decision has been taken on cost but Darling says; "Unless we can get It to the point where it's a zero oncost it will have to be priced separately. On the drawbar coupling we charge around £90, but that's not really comparable as it's a totally different coupling."
He also reports growing interest in VBG's Interlock handle system.
Other new products expected from VBG over the coming months are the C1560C1 cast fifth wheel which, at 132kg, weighs Only 15% more than the standard SPI2 pressed coupling. VBG has also revised its 145SF slider to include closer notch spacings at 37.5mm centres, compared with the previous 75mm, to give more precise control over weight distribution.
Development work on a new locking mechanism is well underway and Darling predicts a growing interest in directly mounted fifth wheels which have no mounting plate or sub-frame, thereby saving weight over a conventional UK-mounted fifth wheel.
"They're very popular on the Continent although we'd have to look at how the loads were being transferred directly to the chassis rails," he says.