Your shout!06 November 2012

In this digital era, the term connectivity has taken on a new meaning, but from a transport industry standpoint, just how well connected are you?

Some years ago, there was a drive to check not only pin wear on the fifth wheel coupling (by testing against allowable movement), but also the surface of the rubbing plate and the coupling itself.

There was an accepted view that perhaps the rubbing plate thickness might become insufficient for the work it was undertaking, in terms of the stresses placed upon it. As a result, thicker plates were specified to overcome the problem of fractures, failures and potential major incidents that might follow.

The supporting structure was also reinforced in some instances to prevent bending stresses and flexing, which could also lead to fracture.

Nevertheless, it was also considered good practice to disconnect the trailer, and clean and investigate thoroughly the surface of the rubbing plate, checking for any visible signs of stress.

Technicians know that examining coupling plates and welds on the pin is easier on some trailers than on others, as access and visibility may or may not be available from the top. But, whatever the configuration, they need thorough examination.

But with the ever-increasing demand for efficiency and productivity, a question for today is has the fifth wheel coupling been subject to re-engineering for weight-saving, using new, lighter duty materials and reduced plate thicknesses?

Another is how often are prime movers and trailers disconnected for a thorough check as part of scheduled maintenance? And again, is such an examination carried out often enough? When was your last check carried out? Was it documented?

The fifth wheel is not checked at annual test (other than for movement), so it is arguably more important than ever that an inspection regime is in place that does check the plate regularly.

Perhaps the annual test should include uncoupling and inspection – although it is unlikely that a VOSA tester would clean a plate for checking. Alternatively, a signed declaration for presentation on request might be a way forward – proving that a plate has been thoroughly examined at least once a year.

Either way, checking for weld cracks around the pin boss and rubbing plate should not be overlooked. Peace of mind and the knowledge that all is in order in this vital area cannot be achieved without a good regime.

Staying well connected in the physical, as well as electronic, sense is vital to ensuring the safety of the vehicle – and the public.

Author
IRTE

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