LOW-HEIGHT DOUBLE-DECKERS
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Tridec's sokution to the maximum trailer height threat There's widespread UK road transport Industry concern and lengthy debate with regard to the threatened imposition of a maximum 4m taller height in the UK. Long the standard for most of Europe, this is familiar territory to Tridec's engineers, who, should the worst happen, believe they can offer a partial solution.
Its HF-0 steerable singlewheel suspension is designed specifically for double-deck trailers. Independent suspension, having no space-consuming axle crossbeam incursion, allows a very low-loading floor height (around 320mm) and can already be seen on specialist kit such as glass transporters. Combining it with a progressive steering system makes the trailer extremely manoeuvrable with far less 'cut in' than on fixed stub-axle examples. Testing like-for-like on a Dutch test track, CM discovered the steered axles had a clear radius advantage over a fixed-wheel double decker.
A bottom deck loading height of around 320mm is possible, while an optional 'kneeling' function allows the lower loadspace to be dropped almost flush onto the road surface using the trailer's air suspension. Within a total overall trailer height of 4m, there is thus space for two 1.ft-high decks, each offering room for 1.75m-high cargo. Tridec says the HF-0 system is easy to fit, since all parts controller, pneumatic springs and shock absorbers are supplied to trailer-makers as pre-built modules with the geometry of the system pre-set. The system is low maintenance, and Tridec offers LV-0, fixed independent wheel suspension, as an alternative.