A semi trailer is one of the main transportation equipment for cargo transportation in the world. The semi-trailer axle is the core component of a semi-trailer. Semi trailers in different countries and regions are equipped with different styles of axles.
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The semi-trailer axle is mainly composed of four major parts:
a. The axle body assembly (including an axle tube, brake base plates, air chamber supports, camshaft supports, etc.).
b. The camshaft assembly (including camshafts, slack adjusters, camshaft repair kits, etc.).
c. The brake assembly (including brake shoes, brake linings, tension springs, etc.).
d. The wheel end assembly (including brake/wheel hubs, brake drums, oil seals, bearings, axle nuts, hub caps, etc.).
Figure 1: axle structure of semi-trailer
Semi trailer axles mainly include three series.
1. American Series Axle
This kind of axle is one of the most widely used semi-trailer axle series in the world. The main markets for American Series axles are the Americas and China. They are also used in other regions such as Asia, Africa, and some European countries and regions.
This series of axle includes light duty axles (load capacity includes 8 tons, 9 tons, 10 tons, 11.5 tons and 12 tons), medium duty axles (load capacity includes 13 tons, 14 tons and 15 tons), and heavy duty axles (load capacity includes 16 tons, 18 tons and 20 tons).
There are two kinds of axle beams: square axle beams and round axle beams. Light-duty axles with a rated load of 8 to 12 tons generally use square axle beams of 120x120mm or 127x127mm, or round axle beams with an outer diameter of Φ127mm
Medium duty and heavy duty axles with a rated load of 13 tons ~ 20 tons generally use square axle beams of 150×150mm, or round axle beams with an outer diameter Φ146mm.
According to the different using requirements and the special design of some parts, American series axles can be divided into:
1) Inboard Drum Axle Series:
The flange’s outer surface of this axle’s brake drum is located on the inner surface of the hub flange. For inboard drum axles, when maintaining and replacing parts of the brake system, it is necessary to unscrew the hub cover and remove the bearing locknut, so that the tire, the wheel hub, the brake drum, the bearings, etc. can be removed together from the beam for maintenance and replacement.
Figure 2: Inboard drum type American semi-trailer axle
2) Outboard Drum Axle Series
The flange’s inner surface of this axle’s brake drum is located on the outer surface of the hub flange. For outboard drum axles, when maintaining and replacing brake system parts, it is only necessary to unscrew all wheel nuts and remove tires and brake drums.
Figure 3: Outboard drum type American semi-trailer axle
3) Spoke Wheel Hub Series Axle
This axle uses special five-spoke hubs, six-spoke hubs, eight-spoke hubs, or ten-spoke hubs to replace the ordinary wheel hubs. It is used with demountable wheel rims and spacers.
Figure 4: Spoke type semi trailer axle
4) Low Bed Series Axle
The outer diameter of this series axle’s brake shoe is Φ311x190mm, which is much smaller than the diameter of common axle brakes. This axle can be matched with smaller wheel rims and tires, effectively reducing the body height of semi-trailers, and is widely used in car transportation semi-trailers and low bed semi-trailers.
Figure 5: Low bed type semi trailer axle
5) Full Drop Series Axle
The axle's beam is full dropped, which can reduce the trailer body height.
Figure 6: Full drop type semi trailer axle
6) Drop Centre Series Axle
The centre concave structure of this axle’s beam can effectively avoid the interference between the axle beam and the transmission axle.
Figure 7: Drop Centre type semi trailer axle
7) Disc Brake Series Axle
Compare with the drum series axles, the disc brake series axles have a simpler structure, and the brake friction surfaces are directly exposed to the air, and the heat dissipation is better, which effectively avoid the phenomenon of thermal degradation. Both sides of the brake disc bear compressive stress and have good crack resistance under continuous braking. The left and right disc braking forces are more balanced, and the braking system responds faster. Therefore, the safety of the vehicle is improved.
Figure 8: Disc Brake Series semi trailer axle
8) Idler Axle
An idler axle does not have braking unit and only plays the role of supporting and bearing. This axle is usually used in low-speed and light load environment.
Figure 9: Idler Axle
2. Europe Series Axle
The main markets for Europe series axles are European countries. They are also used in other countries such as the Middle-east countries, African countries and some Asian countries.
This series of axles have the following characteristics: the axle beam adopts a reinforced square section steel beam, and the axle beam is designed with an outward inclination angle of 1 °, which can effectively ensure the loading of the axle. All parts of the brake shoe have no left and right distinctions and can be interchanged freely. The brake shoe and the support pin use a bayonet link, which is convenient for installation, self-compensation, quick return, and good braking effect. On the axle spindle two bearings, one large and one small, are installed, which is convenient for installation and maintenance.
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This series of axles can be divided into the following three categories:
1) Drum Series Axle
Its rated load includes 10 tons, 12 tons, 14 tons, 16 tons, 18 tons and 20 tons.
Figure 10: Drum Series German type semi trailer axle
2) Spoke Series Axle
Its rated load includes 12 tons, 14 tons and 16 tons.
Figure 11: Spoke Series German type semi trailer axle
3) Disc Brake Series Axle
Figure 12: Disc Brake Series German type semi trailer axle
3. Other Axle Series
Semi-traile axles in different regions in the world have their own characteristics. According to their market characteristics, there are many other series axles. A few examples are as follows:
1) South African Axle
The rated load capacity of this type axle is generally 13 tons, and the main markets are South Africa and its surrounding countries.
Figure 13: South African type semi trailer axle
2) Brazilian Axle
The rated load capacity of this type axle is generally 13 tons, and its hubs and brake drums are specially customized. The main markets are South American countries.
Figure 14: Brazilian type semi trailer axle
3) Thailand Axle
The rated load capacity of this axle is 13 tons, 14 tons and 16 tons. The main markets are Thailand and Southeast Asian countries.
Figure 15: Thailand type semi trailer axle
4) York Axle
The rated load of this axle is 13 tons, 14 tons and 16 tons. The main markets are Southeast Asian countries.
Figure 16: York type semi trailer axle
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Ideal loading conditions are a rarity in the hauling industry. While loading equipment in the yard might not pose any difficulty, a level surface with plenty of room to maneuver is much harder to find on an active jobsite.
Many operators have found traveling axle trailers provide the ideal combination of features to increase safety and versatility. However, like any trailer, maximizing these benefits relies on a careful matching of product specs with the individual operation. Simply selecting a traveling axle trailer off the lot, so to speak, will often get the job done. But a careful consideration of available features with a reputable dealer or manufacturer promises a long-term solution that will provide more safety, durability and better return on investment.
Traveling axle or sliding axle trailers are available from a number of manufacturers. Each brand offers slightly different features, but there are a few design standards that make these trailers well suited for operations looking for versatility and ease of loading. Operators who know what they need in these areas are well on their way to finding the right trailer for their operation.
First, start with your required capacity. Generally, traveling axle manufacturers offers models with a 40- or 55- ton capacity, making them suited for transporting a variety of equipment.
If the trailer will mostly be hauling larger machines like excavators or pavers, pay close attention to the manufacturer’s 10-ft. capacity rating. Those wanting to haul mixed loads of small and mid-sized construction tools, such as skid steers or lifts, should carefully consider the overall capacity. This number tells you how many pieces of equipment, such as mini-excavators or concrete road dividers, you can safely transport on the trailer deck.
Depending on the required capacity and intended use, you can then choose from a number of available deck lengths — usually 48, 50 or 53 ft. — to select a trailer that is optimal for your specific hauling needs. This customization is especially cost effective for businesses that often haul mixed or concentrated short loads, since it allows them to choose a length that works best in the areas they will be used.
TalbertLoaded deck height is another spec you should keep in mind to limit permit costs and maximize productivity. Within the U.S., legal load height is 13 ft. 6 in. However, operators are faced with many overhead obstacles that are even lower, especially in urban environments. In these situations, a single inch can mean a difference of hours when it comes to getting from point A to point B and beyond. A traveling axle trailer with a low loaded deck height of 36 in. provides optimal flexibility for transporting taller equipment.
Also make note of the trailer’s load angle. This feature is key to safety and efficiency since it allows you to simply drive or winch loads onto the deck, eliminating the hassle of ramps and the dangers associated with driving up and over the rear axle. It also makes transporting machines with low ground clearance, such as pavers and rollers, much more convenient.
Load angles vary between models and manufacturers, but are usually between 8° and 6°. Generally speaking, the lower the load angle, the easier loading will be, so compare this important spec before making a final decision.
Look for a trailer with a rugged design made to excel in the adverse conditions often found on construction jobsites.
To provide ample power and traction for moving axles on muddy or uneven terrain, carefully consider the rig’s piggyback cylinder. Most traveling axle trailers rely on hydraulics to move axles forward and back and tilt the trailer deck up and down. When it comes to the axles, the piggyback cylinder is the driving force behind this movement. While a 4-in. cylinder is common on most traveling axle trailers, models with a 5-in. cylinder provide 56% more push force of the cylinders to maximize axle operation while loading and unloading.
TalbertFor additional durability and long-term value, consider a 4-beam frame design that uses 4-in. I-beam crossmembers. Compared to the perimeter frame, which uses 3-in. crossmembers and concentrates weight on only two outside beams, the 4-beam frame offers better deflection across the entire deck. This results in a more even weight distribution that increases trailer longevity and versatility with mixed loads of smaller equipment.
Another durability differentiator is the thickness of the apitong decking. This tightly woven and incredibly dense South Asian wood is less susceptible to chipping and cracking compared to oak or other hardwood, while providing more traction than metal. For maximum longevity, look for trailers offering 1.5-in.-thick (nominal) apitong.
An in-deck winch is standard equipment on most traveling axle trailers from reputable manufacturers. However, the type of winch makes a significant difference.
Look for a trailer with a 20,000-lbs. direct-drive planetary winch, which offers up to twice the loading speed of a more traditional worm gear model. This productivity boost is especially important for operators frequently needing to load immobile equipment or objects.
TalbertRemote control winch operation should also be considered. For the most part, this is a standard feature from leading manufacturers because of the safety and productivity benefits it provides. With a remote control, operators can use the winch from any position — including behind the wheel of inoperable machinery or on the passenger side of the trailer to avoid traffic. This feature also makes it possible for a single operator to load the trailer.
Here again, small differences between manufacturers can quickly add up. For optimum efficiency, look for a six-function remote system. This not only controls the winch but also moves the axles and tilts the deck. A remote with a range of 150 ft. increases the viable working area, allowing operators to choose the safest vantage point for loading and unloading. Additionally, a USB-chargeable remote offers added convenience over battery-powered options.
After all the “make or break” decisions that go into trailer selection, there are the little extras from leading manufacturers that can make a big difference in productivity and safety.
Take the number and size of toolboxes, for example. Look for a trailer with ample storage for chains, binders and other necessary equipment. Some manufacturers offer traveling axle trailers with an additional curbside toolbox with a chain rack for safe, convenient access away from oncoming traffic. This second toolbox also provides significantly more storage capacity than models with a single driver-side storage option.
Trailers with double keyhole tie-down slots on top of the outside beams and recessed in the center of the main deck can offer increased flexibility. This feature allows for safe side-by-side loading of smaller equipment, such as skid steers.
While selecting a traveling axle trailer can be a complicated process, there are experts readily available to help walk you through all the options and ensure you get the right trailer for the job. Work with reputable dealers and manufacturers to understand the key considerations for optimal safety, efficiency and longevity.
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