Trailer Suspension System features large diameter axle.
Press Release Summary:
Narrow-beam INTRAAX®, with 5¾ in. diameter axle, generates weight savings of between 20-27 lb for each axle, depending on axle capacity. Large diameter axle tube with slightly thinner wall provides efficient application of materials. Bending and torsional stiffness are increased by more than 14% compared to 5 in. diameter tube. Minimized tube deflection helps keep axle straight under loads to extend tire wear and maximize fuel efficiency.
Original Press Release:
Large-Diameter Axle Rolling Off Assembly Line on Hendrickson Trailer Suspensions
CANTON, Ohio -Hendrickson plans to begin phase-in of the large-diameter axle (LDA) to its line of trailer suspension systems with the narrow-beam INTRAAX®.
The shift to an LDA for North America increases the diameter of today's traditional five-inch axle by about three-quarters of an inch allowing for use of a thinner axle wall to enhance strength and reduce weight.
Haulers seek lighter weight equipment -often by substituting lighter materials and sacrificing strength for that weight reduction. The large-diameter axle delivers double-edge advancements by reducing trailer suspension weight while actually improving component and system strength.
Adapting fundamental engineering and physics principles refined with state-of-the-art approaches including Finite Element Analysis, Hendrickson design engineers applied this innovative approach to our undercarriage system technology with outstanding results. LDA generates a weight savings of between 20 and 27 pounds for each axle, depending on axle capacity.
The larger-diameter axle tube with a slightly thinner wall provides more efficient application of materials. Benefits include significant weight savings, increased bending and torsional stiffness by more than 14 percent and enhanced overall strength compared to a five-inch diameter tube.
The reduced tube deflection keeps the axle straighter under loads to help improve fuel efficiency and enhance tire wear. Greater torsional rigidity also boosts roll stability.
Phase-in of the LDA to existing product lines begins in 2005. One of the largest trailer axle manufacturers worldwide, Hendrickson's state-of-the-art production capabilities - such as friction-welded spindles and induction hardening - already produce the straightest and most consistent axles in the industry.
Hendrickson International is one of the largest global suppliers of truck and tractor suspensions, trailer suspensions, truck and trailer lift axles, springs and bumpers to the commercial transportation industry. Headquartered in Woodridge, Ill., Hendrickson has been meeting the needs of the transportation industry for more than 90 years. Visit the Hendrickson website at www.hendrickson-intl.com.
