New Features in a 12-wheeled Low-loading Trailer
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Built to Deal with 75-Ion Concentrated Loads, the Latest Dyson Product Incorpotates Some Advanced Features in
Design
ATWELVE-WHEELED trailer of unusual and advanced design has recently been built by R. A. Dyson and Co., Ltd., Grafton Street., Liverpool, S. for Road Engines and Kerr (Haulage), Ltd., Glasgow, which is using it to transport material and equipment for the Queen Mary's " sister ship. The vehiele, which embodies in its construction many new and interesting features, has a nominal capacity of 75 tons concentrated load, and is believed to be the lowest yet produced for the loads in question; it will actually accommodate the whole of the load concentrated within 5 ft.
The 12 wheels are equipped with Dunlop twin 771 mm. by 1S0 mm. tyres of the reduced-section type and Timken tapered roller bearings, each hub carrying a load of 8 tons on two bearings. All wheels are fully compensated, and the ability of the trailer to traverse uneven roads without distortion is worthy of special notice ; one of the accompanying illustrations clearly exemplifies this feature.
To remove the rear wheels for tyre renewal, etc., it is necessary to with draw the axles from the chassis. It was, therefore, not considered desirable to disturb the adjustment of the bearings, so the axle and brakes were cast together, the axle, of course, being of the tubular type and provided with lugs to grip the square axle shoulder. After removing the main retaining nut the coniplete assembly of tubular axle, bearings, brakes and wheels can be withdrawn intact. It is believed that this is the first time thatsuch an arrangement has been adopted.
Braking is Adequate.
A balance beam is fitted between the wheels at the rear. This is a steel casting provided with lugs to facilitate speedy removal. Brakes are fitted to all the rear wheels (eight brakes in all), special attention having been given to prevent interference with them when the bogie is oscillating. Two entirely independent braking systems, each controlled by a hand-screw and each operating on four sets of brakes, are fitted to ensure adequate safety.
At the front, the four Timken equipped wheels are mounted in line on two rocking axles, each of the latter having a spindle which is, in turn, carried in a housing mounted on the carriage frame. These housings are split, so thit to remove the-front wheels it is necessary only to take off the bearing cap and the two wheels and axle can be wheeled away.
-The frame is a riveted structure of great strength, being made from single plates and angles, a process which involved a great deal of work, lint which gives the trailer a fine appearance. The weight unladen is approximately 23 tons, the overall length is 34 ft., the maximum width 9 ft., and the loading level in the well is 2 ft.
Lugs are provided at the back so that another trailer can be attached, similar fittings at the front also enabling it to be hauled. It will be observed that the chassis is designed so that by the provision of two runners it can be made flush for transporting engine beds, boilers and similar bulky loads.