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Have you ever noticed that many trucks drive with one of their axles suspended? There are important reasons for this practice. Find out why it happens!
If you have already noticed trucks on the road and noticed that some have a suspended axle, you may have wondered why this is it happens. Many people believe that they are smaller wheels or spare tires, but the truth is that these axles have a strategic function in road transport.
This system was developed to optimize fuel consumption, reduce tire wear and improve road safety.
The importance of suspended wheels
Trucks are designed to carry heavy loads. The greater the weight, the greater the need for grip on the ground, requiring more axles and tires in contact with the road.
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However, when the truck is empty or lightly loaded, not all axles are needed. Leaving them in contact with the ground can increase fuel consumption and prematurely wear the tires.
To avoid this problem, the axle suspension system was created, allowing the driver to lift one or more trailing axles. (those that do not receive direct power from the engine). This mechanism is pneumatically actuated, reducing friction and improving the truck's performance.
Furthermore, it provides greater control over the cargo being transported, especially on varied routes where load capacity can change constantly.
Benefits of use
Reduction in fuel consumption: One of the main factors that impact transportation costs is fuel consumption. Trucks with unnecessary lowered axles increase drag and rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder.
With the axle suspended, the truck driver reduces contact with the ground, making it easier to move the vehicle and saving fuel. Studies indicate that savings can reach up to 5% in total consumption, a significant number for transport companies.
Less tire wear: Tires represent a significant portion of a truck's operating costs. Keeping them in contact with the ground unnecessarily accelerates wear, requiring more frequent replacements.
By lifting the axles when they are not needed, truck drivers extend the life of their tires, reducing maintenance costs. This is even more important considering that truck tires can cost thousands of dollars per unit.
Better weight distribution: When the truck is loaded, the suspended axles are lowered to better distribute the weight of the load. This prevents uneven tire wear and improves vehicle stability.
On highways, this distribution helps preserve the asphalt, reducing the impact on road infrastructure. It also reduces the need for maintenance on bridges and high-traffic roads.
Compliance with regulatory standards: In Brazil and in several other countries, there are regulations regarding axle weight on trucks. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in fines and even impoundment of the vehicle.
The suspended axle system allows drivers to adjust the axle weight according to the load being carried, ensuring they stay within legal limits. This also helps reduce wear and tear on roads, a chronic problem in many regions.
Greater security and stability: With the suspended axle, the truck gains more stability during journeys. When cornering and maneuvering, increasing or reducing the number of wheels in contact with the ground directly impacts drivability.
This reduces the risk of rollovers and improves the safety of drivers and other road users. It is also an advantageous solution for unpaved roads, where vehicle stability may be compromised.
How does the suspended axle work?
The suspended axle mechanism is based on a pneumatic system, known as Suspension Kit. This system uses air bags that, when inflated, raise the axle. When the driver needs to lower it, the bags are deflated, allowing the axle to touch the ground again.
This system is activated directly by the driver, using a control in the cabin. This mechanism is especially advantageous for trucks transporting variable loads, such as tippers and double trailers, where the weight can change significantly between round trips.
Transport companies often standardize this type of system in their fleets to optimize logistics and reduce costs.
Which trucks have a suspended axle?
Suspended axle technology is common in many types of trucks, especially those used for heavy loads and long-haul routes. Some examples include:
- Bitruck trucks: With two steering axles at the front and an additional suspended axle.
- Semi-trailers and double trailers: They can have one or more axles suspended on the trailer.
- Tippers and construction trucks: They need to adjust the weight according to the load being transported.
- Tanker trucks: They transport fuels and chemicals, requiring constant weight adjustments.
The use of suspended axles in trucks is a strategic solution that improves efficiency, reduces costs and ensures greater safety on the roads.
By allowing the driver to adjust the amount of wheels in contact with the ground, this system contributes to fuel economy, tire preservation and compliance with regulatory standards.
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