System Drag Reduction device cuts trailer turbulence by 50%26 September 2012

A patented aerodynamic diffuser designed for semi-trailers is achieving fuel savings averaging up to 5% in trials – with Schmitz Cargobull, DHL International, Krone and Winkler among those to certify the data.

In trials run recently by CVC (Cargobull Validation Centre) engineers, for example, fuel consumption was reduced by 3.3% in comparison to a trailer without the device.

In operation, the aerodynamic device, dubbed SDR (system drag reduction), injects pressurised air flowing through the roof of the truck, and is claimed to reduce the area of turbulence, and hence drag, behind a moving unit by 50%.

Now available across Europe from Schmitz Cargobull, for new vehicles and as an accessory to registered customers' trailers, it is positioned on top of a trailer at the rear.

DHL's Supply Chain Iberia has awarded the SDR device first prize in its Sustainable Ideas Contest, ahead of 13 other engineering designs.

Author
Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Krone UK
Schmitz Cargobull (UK) Ltd

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