UNSPRUNG HEROES

This article reports recent developments in tyres, braking systems and suspensions for trucks and trailers. Tyre developments are traced from cross-ply, radial-ply through to tubeless radials and low profile tyres. The most significant change of recent years is in introduction of tyres for specific applications; for example drive axle tyres, steered axle tyres, trailer tyres. Abuse of tyres is very common, and most frequently takes the form of under inflation and overloading, often leading to blow-outs. Other abuses include mismatching of twin tyres and damage from kerb collision. Disc brakes are expected to become more commonly used in heavy trucks. They give more efficient braking for heavy vehicles, and lower running and maintenance costs for operators as there is less wear on linings and the disc brake is able to dissipate heat more quickly than the drum brake. Air suspension is taking over from steel springs amongst heavy vehicles, especially for trailers and tractors. The advantages include noise reduction, better ride and handling qualities, less wear and tear on road surfaces, easier weight distribution, easier maintenance.

• Corporate Authors:

  ROAD HAULAGE ASSOCIATION LIMITED

  ROADWAY HOUSE, 35 MONUMENT HILL
  WEYBRIDGE, SURREY  United Kingdom  KT13 8RN
• Authors:
  • -
• Publication Date: 1989-10

Language

• English

Media Info

• Pagination: v.p.
• Serial:
  • ROAD WAY
  • Volume: 55
  • Issue Number: 10

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Air; Air brakes; Blowouts; Brakes; Suspension systems; Tire mechanics; Tire treads; Tires; Trailers; Trucks
• ITRD Terms: 6714: Air; 1362: Air brake; 1361: Brake; 1683: Explosion (tyre); 1236: Lorry; 1329: Suspension (veh); 1203: Trailer; 1381: Tyre; 1392: Tyre tread
• Subject Areas: Motor Carriers; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00497877
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Transport and Road Research Laboratory (TRRL)
• Files: ITRD, TRIS
• Created Date: Sep 30 1990 12:00AM