To implement transportation using a low-loader trawl, it is important to take into account its dimensions. Sometimes this turns out to be its main advantage, because many large orders become impossible to deliver because they do not fit into the back of a truck or a standard shipping container. It is too expensive (or impossible) to ship equipment and heavy cargo by plane or train. The most economical, fastest and most common delivery method is automotive vehicles with tractors adapted for transporting heavy loads and special equipment. The trawl has different parameters and characteristics, which we propose to study in the article.
What is a low bed semi-trailer
This design is necessary for the transportation of oversized and indivisible cargo. A trailer with a loading platform has from 2 to 8 axles. In some cases, the machine can be equipped with extensions to increase the dimensions of the trawl and fit everything necessary on it.
Semi-trailers are also used to transport special-purpose equipment – military and agricultural. Excavators, bulldozers, combine harvesters or tanks can get to the repair or construction site on their own, but to speed up the process and prevent breakdowns, they prefer to transport vehicles on cargo areas.
Also, according to the law, special equipment on caterpillar tracks is prohibited from moving on public roads, because the vehicle destroys asphalt and creates emergency situations. For such types of transport, transportation on heavy trucks with a semi-trailer is suitable.
Main characteristics of the trawl:
- from 2 to 8 axles in total - this makes it all-terrain and reliable;
- reinforced chassis - almost any route is possible;
- height – minimum, usually from 950 mm;
- a mandatory attribute - ramps for entry from the rear or a detachable gander for the front;
- types of suspension of loading devices - spring, hydraulic or pneumatic.
Due to the large number of wheels installed on the semi-trailer, the load of the transported object is distributed over the entire surface of the trawl. This is what allows it to remain stable and transport non-standard oversized cargo over different distances.
Scope of application of low loaders
Low-bed trawl trailers have a fairly wide range of applications. They are used to transport not only heavy, but also long and oversized cargo. They are suitable for transportation:
- Construction, agricultural, road and other types of tracked and wheeled equipment. The platform can simultaneously transport several small units, as well as attachments.
- Long cargo – metal structures (channels, beams, I-beams), rails, pipes.
- Oversized tanks, containers and tanks.
- Small water and air transport.
- Large industrial equipment and much more.
The catalog allows you to select low-loading trawls-semi-trailers for almost any customer need.
Purpose and benefits
The main task of vehicles with semi-trailers is transportation. And they do a great job with it.
Among the advantages, we note the following characteristics:
- low height of the platform - any equipment can easily fit on it;
- high-quality fixation - with proper preparation, nothing will come loose from the trailer along the way;
- low center of gravity – provides increased stability;
- convenient ramps or a gander on the side – two entry methods make loading oversized cargo simple and safe.
Now let's look at the purpose:
- modular and telescopic types are capable of transporting gigantic loads;
- the axles of individual models can rotate independently of the main pairs of wheels, so it will be more convenient for the driver to carry out complex maneuvers;
- The kit includes a cable with a fastening mechanism;
- the platform and fasteners are created in such a way as to ensure the integrity of the cargo even during long multi-day deliveries.
Types of trawls
Trailers differ in load capacity and are divided into light, medium and heavy. It is important not to overload the site so as not to risk expensive equipment. There are also sliding and modular designs. The main criteria that matter in the general classification are:
- load capacity;
- height;
- dimensions - they limit the choice of special equipment and products that will be transported. In some cases, the number of available routes also changes; not all roads in Russia allow wide or long heavy vehicles to travel along them;
- loading and entry method – some equipment can only be loaded from the side;
- design features - sliding and modular types;
- number of axles - the more there are, the more stable the trawl and the less likely it is to have an emergency.
When purchasing a trailer, you can talk to an employee of the leasing company, who will help you decide on a specific model range based on the parameters outlined above. Now let's look at the differences between types of trawls in more detail.
Our production
Truck tires
Tires for special equipment
Tires for agricultural machinery
Sliding
Refers to universal models that can increase the dimensions and extend the platform by 1-3 spans using a telescopic platform designed to accommodate especially large equipment. Typically, such a trailer is purchased for industrial companies. The maximum length for the possible dimensions of a low-loader trawl for transporting equipment with a tractor is from 40 to 52 meters. But special equipment is almost never transported on it. The standard purpose of such a trailer is the delivery of tanks, beams, and various supports of especially large dimensions.
Another nuance is that when the platform is lengthened, the total load capacity does not increase, but becomes smaller. Also, if the equipment is secured at only one point without taking into account the distribution of weight over the entire area, the risk of fracture or bending of the surface during transportation increases. Therefore, it is important to check all indicators before setting off.
Modular
This low-loader trawl has increased lifting capacity. It is usually used as a heavy hauler. The platform can be increased both in length and width without losing the mechanism’s ability to transport oversized cargo. All tractors are equipped with a complex hydraulic suspension. Features include good maneuverability:
- individual wheelsets can turn in different directions;
- the installation platform can tilt;
- Some centerlines may be omitted.
With such technical capabilities, it is much easier for the driver to manage the process and control its progress.
How best to transport a bicycle in a car and types of mounts
When transporting, it is not only the traffic rules that must be observed. You must first obtain documents and permits, as well as the consent of the authorities of various services for transportation.
The speed of a loaded trailer cannot exceed 50 km/h. And in some cases (transportation of dangerous/oversized cargo) requires escort by traffic police officers.
Trawl trailer for transporting special equipment
The design is similar: a platform onto which special equipment (necessary for long-distance transportation) drives.
A trawl is used only if heavy equipment cannot reach high speed on its own or if it can damage the road surface when moving.
The algorithm is simple:
- contact a rental company;
- pay (lowest cost) transportation;
- wait for the cargo at the right place.
The classification of trawls by carrying capacity is similar: light, medium, heavy and super-heavy. The type of suspension is also similar: spring, pneumatic and hydraulic.
By loading height: low-frame (up to 350 mm), high-frame - up to 1 meter.
By number of axles: two-axle, three-axle, four-axle, five-axle, six-axle, seven-axle, eight-axle. The lower the platform, the more axles.
They can be very big
Types of pendants
Some of the operational properties in different conditions, the cost of maintenance, cargo safety and much more directly depend on them. Let's look at each point in detail.
Spring or mechanics
This type of suspension is almost never found now, although previously they were installed in all trailers. Installing this suspension system ensures that the machine will be inexpensive to maintain and the model can be used for a long time. But there is one significant drawback - it is impossible to ensure the complete safety of the transported property.
Pneumatic or air
Today this is the most common suspension option used in cars. The suspension systems are reliable and comfortable during operation; driving with them will be soft and simple. This is especially true for Russia, where roads are not always in good condition.
Hydraulics
It is also extremely rare, since these pendants have a serious drawback. There is moisture inside the structure, due to which it becomes possible to use the equipment only in warm summer time. It is impossible to send luggage to northern latitudes or extreme areas using such equipment - the liquid will freeze and make the trailer completely unusable and dangerous.
Favorable terms of sale
Having decided to buy a trawl trailer TM STEELBEAR, you can use the services of leasing companies - partners of VOMZ JSC. Current repairs and maintenance of equipment are carried out at branded service stations in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and regional centers of Russia. Maintenance of the axle units and brake systems of the machine can be carried out at the manufacturers' service stations.
To order a trailer, contact the sales managers. Fill out the “Call me back” column and we will contact you at any time convenient for you.
Maximum lifting capacity of low bed trawl
This is the main characteristic, depending on which a specific model is most often chosen.
There are 3 types:
- light – transportation of up to 25 tons;
- medium - from 25 to 45 tons;
- heavy - can deliver up to 110 tons at a time.
There is a separate group called “extra-heavy semi-trailers”; they are used quite rarely due to their high cost and narrow specialty. They are needed when it is planned to send particularly large and heavy cargo, the weight of which exceeds 110 tons. Typically these are parts from ships, missiles and architectural structures. The area can be expanded in any direction - additional area is installed if the cargo cannot be divided into several parts for easier transportation.
How does loading onto a low-loader trawl take place?
Loading onto a low-loader trawl occurs in two ways: the equipment drives in independently or the load is placed using lifting equipment - a crane, crane beam, special loader, etc.
If everything is clear with the second option, then the first – independent entry of equipment – can happen in two ways. Depending on the design of the semi-trailer, entry is made through the front or rear.
The first option applies to trawls with a reduced platform height. To allow the vehicle to enter, the front module (gander), attached to the fifth-wheel coupling device of the tractor, is disconnected from the frame using a hydraulic drive. Disconnect the electrical wiring and pneumatics of the brake system. The tractor, together with the gander, moves away from the trawl, freeing passage for the loading vehicle. After loading, the process is repeated in reverse order.
The front loading pattern is often used when delivering road construction and drilling equipment, such as asphalt pavers, road rollers, and HDD equipment. Its advantage is that the equipment drives directly onto the platform, which lies on the ground. In this case, the angle of inclination is minimal.
A more common, one might say classic, scheme is driving through the back of a semi-trailer. In this case, there is no need to separate the tractor and the trawl. The design of the latter includes ramps - special ladders. They can be folding, retractable or overhead. With manual or hydraulic drive. According to them, the equipment enters the trawl.
The advantage of this design is the loading speed. However, the lifting angle in this version is higher, which can create difficulties for some types of machines.
Design Features
Basic indicators:
- the width of the automobile trawl in overall dimensions is from 2.5 to 3 m, in length it can reach 13 m when assembled and up to 40-50 m with the use of a telescope;
- load capacity also varies depending on the brand, on average up to 110 tons or more (for extra-heavy trailers);
- loading height in the standard case varies from 500 to 950 mm;
- The frame is always straight, but thanks to the independence of the individual wheel sets, almost any maneuver can be performed.
Many of the trailers are legal for use on public roads.
Main technical characteristics of low-loader trawls
Based on the classification of trawls, we can highlight the main technical characteristics of this type of equipment. As already mentioned, the platform height of low loader trawls ranges from 400 to 1000 mm.
The length of standard trawls usually varies between 8-12 meters. However, light models, as well as if the transport platform is located below the level of the wheel part, semi-trailers can be 5-9 meters in length. Sliding heavy trucks reach 35 m.
As for the load capacity, it depends on the dimensions of the platform, the number of axles and the traction mechanism. The maximum transportable weight can reach up to 400 tons.
Manufacturers
We examined the dimensions of vehicles and low-frame trawls for transporting oversized cargo and special equipment. Now we invite you to study the main companies that construct them.
Polytrans
One of the leading companies that develops reliable and functional trailed equipment suitable for various production tasks. The production is constantly developing and improving its fleet. Their tractors operate in radically different climatic conditions.
Tverstroymash
Another expert in the design of heavy-duty semi-trailers. Large corporations and factories, construction and transport enterprises purchase from them. The plant sells quality products based on equipment standards and has been in the technical service field for more than 20 years. All their equipment is safe and durable, and spare parts are easy to obtain.
Special vehicles
It produces models of any complexity and size within the permissible limits, including high-quality trawls. Many components and components are delivered from Europe. The assortment includes multifunctional universal products. The company has been operating in the manufacturing sector for over 50 years. The catalogs contain both new products and a number of proven, widely used semi-trailer options.
Bryansk Arsenal
Creator of low loaders with several hundred years of experience. The range includes heavy trucks for towing with a permissible saddle load of up to 15.5 tons. The plant also offers cargo platforms with a platform height from 700 to 900 mm. The approach angle of special equipment varies from 6 to 12 degrees.
Ural trailer
Wide dealer network throughout the country. One of the first factories in Russia, which has been operating since 1943. Various trailed equipment is produced and sold here; now the manufacturer specializes in technical devices with a load capacity of up to 2000 tons, and also prepares spare parts for them. Here you can purchase excellent equipment for the oil, construction, metallurgical, mining and other fields.
VARZ
The largest manufacturer in Ukraine using European components and modern technologies. Some models are superior in functionality to many imported analogues. Here you can buy dump trucks that carry up to 45 tons, low-loader trawls, gas carriers, tanks, and so on.
Kogel
Another company that is famous for its impeccability. For more than 80 years, the company has been distinguished by the fact that its products can withstand high loads and provide owners with a decent level of profitability. Excellent price-quality ratio, many years of effective use, long service life and inexpensive maintenance. In most cases, the structures are lightweight.
Schmitz
A German manufacturer for which the creation of tractors has been the main direction of work for more than a century. The park is constantly being improved and modernized; the plant has proven itself well in the market. The equipment has served for decades with virtually no complaints. The model range is economical, there is a huge selection of available options.
Faymonville
A large independent family-owned company produces small forklifts, as well as various cargo transportation vehicles and equipment for the transport of non-standard and large goods. In the catalog you can find various transport solutions for heavy trucks, construction, agriculture and even defense production.
Kassbohrer
Also a German organization, one of the fastest growing and oldest, which receives awards for its innovative approach. You can get personal advice from them, even if you are not yet their client. The company has an after-sales services department. The catalogs offer semi-trailers that are easy to maintain and use.
steelbear
A serious machine-building plant with modern computer technologies and solutions. We have a large selection of trailers of different heights and load capacities. Something new is constantly being developed here. This includes creating personal options according to technical specifications from clients, which go into production only after careful verification by the buyer.
Bodex
It positions itself as one of the industry leaders in Europe and promises to take an individual approach to customer requests. The production was founded in 1991, so most of the equipment at the plant is new, and almost all components are supplied by European companies. Ready-made semi-trailers are produced for sale adapted to poor road surfaces and difficult operating conditions. Most of them have air spring suspension.
Cost of a heavy semi-trailer
Semi-trailer prices vary. Used equipment of Russian brands can cost from 300 thousand rubles to 1 million or more. For foreign used trailers, the price starts from 500 thousand rubles and reaches several million.
New Russian-made designs cost at least 1-2 million rubles, imported ones - from a couple of million. The more complex the trailer, the more expensive it is.
A heavy-duty semi-trailer of 60 tons will cost from 800 thousand rubles. If these models are not suitable for you, you can consider modular semi-trailers; they cope well with large loads.
I would like to draw your attention to ChMZAP semi-trailers; they are used for transporting large-sized cargo, increasing the capacity of the road train. The choice of domestic and foreign heavy trucks is extensive. Cargo carrier companies buy and use trailers and trawls from various manufacturers. It all depends on the area in which the heavy load is used.
