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In the transport sector, everything revolves around performing as efficiently as possible. Whether you are transporting goods, working in construction, or involved in agricultural activities, your vehicles need to be reliable, maneuverable, and cost-effective. Two key components that play a significant role in this are lift axles and steering axles. But what exactly do these axles do, and how can they contribute to a better-performing truck? This article explains their functions and also discusses important benefits, functions, and configurations.
A lift axle is an axle that can be raised or lowered depending on the load and driving conditions of a vehicle. In a truck or trailer, the lift axle is used to optimize the distribution of the cargo weight. When the load is light, the axle can be lifted. This reduces rolling resistance, saves fuel, and minimizes tire wear. With a heavy load, the lift axle is lowered to spread the load across multiple axles.
Fuel savings: One of the biggest advantages of a lift axle is the reduction in fuel consumption. By raising the lift axle when it's not needed, rolling resistance decreases, leading to less fuel use. This can make a significant difference, especially on long trips.
Reduced tire wear: When the lift axle is raised, the wear on the tires decreases because they make less contact with the road. This extends the life of the tires, resulting in lower maintenance costs.
Optimal weight distribution: For heavier loads, lowering the lift axle ensures better weight distribution across all axles. This prevents overloading the rear axles and improves vehicle stability.
Flexibility in use: A lift axle makes the vehicle more versatile. Whether carrying a partial load or fully loaded, you can adjust the configuration to suit the situation.
A steering axle is an axle that can rotate, which enhances the maneuverability of a vehicle. This type of axle is commonly used in longer vehicles or vehicles with multiple axles, such as trailers or agricultural machinery. By reducing the turning radius, the steering axle makes it easier to navigate corners or move in tight spaces.
Improved manoeuvrability: Especially in urban areas or construction sites where space is limited, a steering axle is invaluable. The rotating axle makes it easier to move through narrow streets or between obstacles.
Less tire wear: A steering axle ensures that tires experience less lateral force when turning, significantly reducing wear, which results in long-term cost savings.
Increased safety: Thanks to the steering axle, the vehicle remains more stable when turning, reducing the risk of accidents due to tipping or skidding. This is particularly important when transporting heavy or unstable loads.
For businesses that need both flexibility and manoeuvrability, combining lift axles and steering axles offers the ideal solution. This configuration is perfect for trucks with changing loads or trailers that frequently operate in busy areas. By using the lift axle on long trips and the steering axle in tight spaces, you get the best of both functions. It also leads to lower fuel costs and tire wear. Additionally, efficiently using the axles contributes to lower CO2 emissions, which is beneficial for the environment.
When choosing the right configuration for your truck, it's essential to consider the specific requirements of your industry and operations. The type of work plays a significant role. For example, if you are transporting heavy loads over long distances, a lift axle is indispensable because it helps with fuel savings and reduces tire wear. On the other hand, if you often need to maneuverer in tight spaces, such as in cities or on construction sites, steering axles provide the manoeuvrability you need.
It's also crucial to pay attention to legal regulations. Always check the maximum permissible axle loads and vehicle dimensions applicable in your region to ensure compliance with the law and avoid fines or other issues.
Cost savings are another important factor. Choose a configuration that not only meets your operational needs but also minimizes costs. A smart choice can extend the lifespan of your vehicles and simplify maintenance, resulting in significant savings in the long run.
Finally, regular maintenance is vital to ensure the performance and longevity of both the lift axles and steering axles. Make sure your vehicles are always in top condition and perform optimally.
At BAS World, we understand the needs of transport companies and offer a wide range of trucks with advanced axle configurations. Whether you're looking for a vehicle with a lift axle for long distances or a steering axle for improved flexibility, we're here to help. Contact our experts, and we’ll be happy to discuss the possibilities!