New Safe Liner uses space-frame chassis
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en by Bryan Jarvis
German manufacturer Krone has developed a new Safe Liner trailer based on a novel space-frame chassis and suspension system.
The conventional I-beam design is replaced by a framework made from laser-profiled fine grain, high grade steel sections and supported by two outer sections with another frame at the rear. This serves to provide support for the superstructure around the perimeter. The main outer frames comprise two 160mm-high sections connected by vertical members; the top is level with the floor and the lower edge is about 280mm above the road.
Krone has enclosed the frame's rear end adding integrated lights and an under-run bumper, while extra storage compartments in the spaceframe's belly will take up to 6.0 tonnes of spare wheel(s), pallets or other goods.
Suspension air bags are mounted directly between space-frame and axles, tyres are easily interchangeable by simply removing the side sup porting panels. Krone's Safe Liner can couple at 1.150mm so with any of its 2.7m interior-height body structures (Cool, Mega. Coil Liner, etc) it stays within an overall 4.0m to suit intermodal use.
Complete with Krone's standard curtainsider bodywork, sliding roof, triple side posts and BPW disc brakes it weighs just over seven tonnes.
The new trailer has undergone testing at the OEM accident research centre at Neumunster: Krone reports that the spate frame acted like a crash barrier or crumple zone in simulated accidents. it is also said to have reduced spray and fuel consumption.