How to Determine the Correct Axle Configuration for Your Trailer?
Axle selection requires consideration of a number of factors as it relates to the proper functioning of the axle. Therefore, here are some tips for choosing a trailer axle to help you better understand the technology and options when choosing an axle configuration.
GCW, topography, and assignment
When determining the right axle configuration, we think that a good starting point is to look at the gross combination weight of your vehicle, the topography of the route, and the trailer’s mission. Alongside these three key factors, consider how your axle choices will affect fuel consumption.
As a general rule, the heavier a trailer is and the steeper the hills are along the route, the more torque is needed. The extra payload also means that you’ll need a stronger and more stable structure with more axles to distribute the added weight.
Axle ratios
The axle ratio tells you how many turns the prop shaft needs to make to spin the wheels one turn. An axle ratio of 2.64 axles, for example, means that the prop shaft needs to turn 2.64 times for each wheel spin. It also means the trailer can pull more weight and start on steeper hills than an equivalent trailer with a ratio of 2.47, for example. But to spin the prop shaft more, the engine revs need to be higher too. This means as you use more power, you’ll also pay a bit more at the pump.
Traction
It’s also possible to increase traction by upping the number of driven axles – but this is not always practical. In general, the number of axles on a trailer unit depends on the local load legislation and varies between countries and applications.
Ground clearance
Another key aspect to consider: What ground clearance do you need? To gain the ground clearance needed for rough terrains, such as in construction, mining, or military applications, the driven axle can include a hub reduction. With a hub reduction, the driving power is transferred to each wheel by an additional reduction gear, built into the hub. Through this mechanism, the center gear can be made smaller, which increases ground clearance and durability, while also resulting in a less jerky drive when starting on soft ground.
The hub reduction is often matched with larger tires to raise the trailer even further off the ground. But sometimes, the opposite is needed: You might be more concerned with limiting the height of the trailer, in order to travel under certain bridges, for example. In this case, you may need to avoid hub reductions entirely, limit the size of the tires and select a lower chassis height and maximize loading weight.
Alongside meeting your transport requirements, it’s also critical to consider fuel consumption, since axle specifications play a decisive role in fuel economy.
HAWAY is an experienced trailer parts manufacturer, we have become a leader in the industry with our excellent manufacturing process and thoughtful service attitude. We are equipped with a professional quality inspection system, which can fully control the quality of products. At the same time, we will also customize effective solutions according to the diverse needs of users. If you want to buy our trailer axles, please contact us immediately!
