BPW launches 27° self-steer axle for longer trailer manoeuvrability 18 November 2011

BPW has launched a self-steering axle for semi-trailers that enables a market-leading 27° of steering angle.

This capability offer trailer builders and transport operators the option of a self-steer axle on trailers up to 15.6m in length, as well as the standard self-steer axle, with up to 20° of steer, for shorter 14.6m trailer lengths.

Following the longer trailer consultation results, Keith Marriott from BPW's UK technical support department, concludes that "in a business where payload capability is key, this new development can give the transport operator the capability of carrying up to 44 tonne gvw".

And he adds that it also offers considerable cost and weight reductions over traditional command steer options.

With the BPW modular manufacturing system, this 27° self-steer axle can be supplied with either drum or disc brakes, and encompasses the BPW patented load-dependent tracking facility.

This feature means that it is not necessary to lock the steer axle while the vehicle is travelling forward, regardless of speed. The weight of the load acting on the pressure bearing keeps the wheels in the straight-ahead position until steering scrub is introduced.

Equally important, considering the difficulties of operating longer trailers when reversing, the self-locking facility automatically maintains the steering mechanism in the straight position as soon as the trailer starts to reverse.

Author
John Challen

Related Companies
BPW Ltd

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