More cube less weight
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• Cartwrights has developed high-cube and low weight versions of its tri-axle curtainsider semi-trailer.
The high-cube semi provides maximum loading heights for UK and continental operators: the UK version has a 2.74m clear side aperture within the overall UK 4.2m height limit.
The extra volume has been achieved by reducing the trailer neck depth by 80mm to 120mm and by using a very slim (61mm) deep roof frame. Unlike other high-volume semis the Cart wright trailer does not demand a low-height tractor. It has a 1,194mm coupling height, allowing a conventional artic to be used with normal tyres.
The thin-neck Cartwright semi has two pairs of swing posts to maximise loading flexibility. It also has a variable frame thickness and a rubbing plate that is fitted neatly into the bottom flange.
Kerbweight for a 13.5m model is 6,900kg including the aerodynamic kit.
A similar model for TIR oper ators running at the continental 4.0m height limit is also available. The low weight tri-axle semi uses a number of aluminium components including Alcoa wheels, alloy side and rear underrun guards together with a tapered frame behind the back axle.
It has Carbofont rear doors and variable thickness top and bottom flanges in low stress areas. A 12.6m tri-axle with a standard 2.65m side aperture, one pair of swing pillars and a 200m neck weights 6,000kg.
According to Cartwrights the sales strength of both new models is their conventional all-steel chassis.
They are also available with Cartwrights aerodynamic side skirts and rear valances, developed in conjunction with the Energy Efficiency Office.
TDG company Inter-City Transport has already ordered 30 high-volume semis for UK operation, with four of the first low-weight curtainsiders for a brewery contract. Both models cost about £18,000.
El Birmingham-based Ponsonby has ordered a batch of 10 13.6m aerodynamic Cartwright tri-axle curtainsiders with RO-R Levelride suspension.