A hydraulic modular trailer (HMT) is a special platform trailer unit which feature swing axles, hydraulic suspension, independently steerable axles, two or more axle rows, compatible to join two or more units longitudinally and laterally and uses power pack unit (PPU) to steer and adjust height.[1] These trailer units are used to transport oversized load, which are difficult to disassemble and are overweight. These trailers are manufactured using high tensile steel, which makes it possible to bear the weight of the load with the help of one or more ballast tractors which push and pull these units via drawbar or gooseneck this combination of tractor and trailer is also termed as heavy hauler.
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Typical loads include oil rig modules, bridge sections, buildings, ship sections, and industrial machinery such as generators and turbines also many militaries uses HMT for tank transportation. There is a limited number of manufacturers who produce these heavy-duty trailers because the market share of oversized loads is very thin when we talk about the over all transportation industry. There are self powered units of hydraulic modular trailer which are called SPMT which are used when the ballast tractors can not be applied due to space.
In the first every hydraulic modular trailers were made by Willy Scheuerle a Germany based trailer specialist which were four axles 32 wheeled modules for Robert Wynn and Sons Ltd, a Shaftesbury-based Guinness Book of Record-winning heavy haulage company.[2] Wynns were also the first to use pneumatic tires for loads weighing more than 100 tons and also to use hydraulic suspension trailers which were manufactured by Cranes Trailers limited from Dereham.[3]
In Cranes Trailers limited developed two four-axle 32-wheel modules for Pickfords, a London based heavy haulage company, with combined payload capacity of 160 tons on a total of eight axles and 64 wheels the modules incorporated hydraulic suspensions and each axle interlinked with mechanical steering system at an operational height varied from 2.9 to 3.11ft. The modules had drawbar coupling which could be coupled at either of both ends or even both for push-pull combination.[4]
In Goldhofer developed modular trailers in Europe for heavy haulers.[5] In the same year, Cometto developed a 300-ton capacity module in 14-axle, seven-row configuration.[6] Scheuerle also demonstrated its modules at events in [7] and later King Truck Equipment Ltd signed an agreement with Scheuerle which gave them exclusive manufacturing rights to produce their trailers in the UK.[8]
In , King Truck Equipment Ltd demonstrated two units that were custom-built for Pickfords. A single unit was able to carry 150 tons on six axle rows and 48 wheels in total. Who would use them mostly with their Scammell ballast tractors via a drawbar coupling. These trailers had independent suspension and steering abilities via the Petter twin-cylinder diesel engine used as a PPU.[9]
In the s, many manufacturers started to developed HMTs as the industry believed that the conventional low loaders had various limitations. To comply with new regulations and keeping safety in mind, the industry knew that they needed more axles to distribute the payload and the ultimate solution for the demand would be HMTs. Manufacturers opted hydraulic suspension instead of mechanical leaf springs and air suspension due to its efficient size and adjustable characteristics. Manufacturers chose high-tensile steel instead of aluminum because when it comes to HMTs and oversize loads, the minimizing the weight of the HMT is not relevant when they have their own payload capacity excluding the ballast tractor. The only weak point that existed on a HMT were the tires,[10] which are still a significant weakness till today, that's the reason why SPMTs have solid tires. HMTs operate at a higher speed then SPMts that's why solid tires are not an option for HMTs.
The number of axles on a HMT is not specified; two-, three-, four-, five-, six-, and eight-axle units are manufactured. Multiple units can be coupled longitudinally and laterally to transport a heavier load; each axle has a lifting capacity ranging from 18 tons to 45 tons. With a steering capacity of 50 to 60 degrees. Some combinations require a trailer operator who controls steering and height adjustments of the trailer via a controller which is modular and can be mounted at the frontend or rear end of the trailer. Huge combinations may also have a cabin for the operator, while typical combinations have a seat attached to the controller.[citation needed]
Hydraulic cylinders are used for steering and suspension of the trailer each axle has an individual suspension cylinder, steering rod which is connected to the main steering cylinder which is at the frontend of the trailer which makes all the axles steer at once in the same direction one row of axle consist of two turn tables, two knees, two suspension cylinders and four to eight wheels attached to a high strength metal platform. Steering and suspension cylinders are hydraulically operated using hydraulic fluid through hose pipe from the hydraulic tank, which is located near the PPU. PPU, which powers the steering, suspension to and fro flow of hydraulic fluid from hydraulic tank to suspensions and steering cylinders, puts out about 18 to 25 hp of power and are available in both diesel and petrol variants manufactured by renowned brands like Kohler, Yanmar and Hatz.[citation needed]
Multiple units of HMT can be interconnected longitudinally by pins and interconnecting couplings mounted in the centre of the chassis in the front and rear to interconnect them laterally they are bolted on the side wall of the chassis. HMTs can not move themselves, so There are two ways by which a HMT can be coupled with a tractor unit which can push and pull the trailer, these are gooseneck and drawbar.
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Gooseneck is the most common coupling used in the industry. A swan shaped coupling is coupled to the trailer and the tractor via connection of trailer pin and tractor fifth wheel. This coupling can be hydraulically adjusted to suit the tractor's height also the steering controls are connected to the coupling. Goosenecks are easy to use and gives benefit to using conventional tractors,[11] but this coupling has two huge drawbacks. This coupling can not be applied in a two file or side by side HMT configuration which limits the payload. Additionally, it can not be applied in push and pull configuration. Goosenecks are manufactured by the trailers manufactures themselves.
Drawbar is the most efficient and economical coupling which consists of an A-shaped frame with an I-shaped loop which is coupled to the trailer and connected to a ballast tractor via a towing hitch of the tractor. This coupling is widely used in developing countries because of its economical cost. Unlike gooseneck, this coupling can be applied to side by side and push & pull configuration[12] which, but this coupling can not be connected to a typical tractor, it requires a ballast tractor which has a ballast box instead of a fifth wheel and tow hitches in the rear and front.[13] Draw bars and tow hitches are manufacture red by companies like jost and Ringfeder.[citation needed]
Since in the United States of America, HMT have extra features and design changes which include widening axles, and half way folding system. Due to different road regulations in different states, almost all manufacturers have adopted the US design and developed a product for the US market. These HMT trailers are named dual lane trailers, which comes from the widening characteristic of the trailer. Dual lane trailers have capability to change its width from 13 feet (4.0 m) to 20 feet (6.1 m) wide to make transport of empty trailers easy and also comply with state regulations when required.[14]
Truth be told, I'm not an expert in hydraulic modular trailers, Therefore, I dedicated a week to research and consult with our engineers for 12 hours, combining this with my decade of sales experience to create this article to share with you, I hope it provides you with some assistance.
In this comprehensive article, we'll dive into the technical specifications, innovative designs, versatile applications of hydraulic modular trailers, their components, and various combination possibilities. Moreover, we'll give some useful tips to guide you in choosing the best hydraulic modular and reliable supplier. Okay, Let's begin!
Hydraulic modular trailers can be used for transporting more types of cargo than you can imagine, but of course, it's a waste to use them to transport lighter cargo, they are mainly used for transporting oversized and heavy-duty loads, Below are some of their key applications you should know.
CHINA HIPOTRUK modular trailers can handle up to 45 tons per axle line, the same as the German model trailer. So, the total weight capacity of a hydraulic modular trailer can be calculated based on how many axles of modular trailer you have. For example, a hydraulic modular trailer with 10 axles could potentially carry up to 400 to 450 tons
There are two types of wheel bogie steering systems used in HMTs: the ball bearing race ring and pivot bearing make the modular trailer achieve 45-55 degree turning angle.
Ball Bearing Race Ring Steering: Ideal for off-road operations, trailers with this steering system are designed to navigate and bear heavy loads in challenging site conditions.
The STZ-V gooseneck, upon receiving steering signals from the tractor truck, synchronizes the steering of the axles. Its lifting function adapts to the cargo platform's height.
This gooseneck also shares the cargo weight, enhancing the vehicle's traction without adding extra weight to the truck tractor. Its steering cylinders service both the front and rear systems of the trailer, with adjustable coupling height and clearance to fit most truck tractors.
Sometime in order to complete a transportation task or transport some special equipment, you have to assemble some accessories on your modular trailer, just like after you buy a mobile , if you want to play some game, you have to install some apps first. Okay, let's how many accessories you can choose for your HMTs.
This drop deck has a low center of gravity for safe transport conditions, because a beam construction height down to 250mm, is very suitable for transporting transformers if there are height restrictions, such as under bridges or power lines. The coupling heads are firmly welded to the deck or there is alternatively an over-drivable hook system with a quick coupling device.
At the heart of the girder bridge trailer lies the Girder Frame, strategically placed on both the front and rear transport modules to support heavy loads. The load is 'hoisted' by the frame and distributed evenly to the multi-axle transport modules at both ends, ensuring balanced load sharing. With no wheel restrictions beneath the frame, the overall transportation height can be significantly reduced, even to ground level, which is advantageous for height-sensitive transports. The girder bridge trailer offers not only ease and safety in loading and unloading but also independence from additional lifting equipment for some models. Moreover, the flexible steering structure of the split-type transporter facilitates effortless navigation, even in tight corners and with long vehicle lengths.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Hydraulic Modular Trailer Specifications.
Drawbar Combination: This setup connects the drawbar, the main body of the trailer, and the lateral steering frame, providing a robust option for varied towing needs.
STZ-V Gooseneck Combination: Incorporating the STZ-V gooseneck with the trailer's main body enhances its functionality, allowing for more complex hauling tasks.
Self-Towing Configuration: By integrating the PPU device with module units and self-propelled modules, the trailer gains autonomy. This setup includes a power unit that supports hydraulic movement, an air brake system, a lifting mechanism, and steering capabilities.
This innovative modular trailer can entirely replace traditional vehicles for specific tasks, especially in transporting heavy loads at speeds under 5km/h. Each combination offers unique advantages tailored to different hauling requirements, showcasing the modular trailer's adaptability and efficiency in heavy transportation.
This particular arrangement incorporates the STZ-V gooseneck, either a full or half modular unit, a power pack, and various combination accessories to create a versatile hauling solution.
Designed to support up to 16 axle lines, this combination allows for the selection of an appropriate modular unit tailored to the specific requirements of the cargo. While this setup excels in numerous transport scenarios, its configuration is not ideally suited for carrying over-length goods. However, the inclusion of auxiliary equipment, such as a flat beam, can enhance its utility, making it a valuable option for a wide range of transportation needs.
Hipotruk is a Chinese company in the field of heavy transport manufacturing. Their HMT can combine with European Modular Trailes, Self propelled modular transporter SPT,SPMT,PST,PST-E andScheuerle modular trailer etc.
HIPO Hydraulic modular trailers are known for their superior quality and advanced technology, rivaling European counterparts in functionality. The most important is the price of the HIPO hydraulic modular trailer is only about one-third of the European manufacturer's product. Hipotruk's market reach is global, with a significant presence in European, American, South American, Asian, and African markets.
Goldhofer is an internationally renowned manufacturer of intelligent and exceptional transport solutions. With a history dating back to , the company has evolved to become a leading player in the industry. Their vehicles are designed for both on-road and off-road heavy-duty haulage, airport operations, and carrying oversized cargo. Operating on a 100,000 sq. meter premises, Goldhofer prides itself on producing high-quality products. They offer a wide range of heavy-duty modules, trailers, and semi-trailers suitable for various transportation needs, including moving heavy cargo in airports.
Scheuerle is considered the largest production site of transporters in the TII Group, a conglomerate that includes Kamag Transporttechnik, Nicolas Industrie, Scheuerle, and Tratec. Specializing in building heavy-duty vehicles for road transportation, Scheuerle stands out for its use of pendulum axles controlled through hydraulics. With a manufacturing and testing facility spanning 70,000 sq. meters, Scheuerle offers vehicles for road transportation, compact automobiles, power boosters, self-propelled modular trailers, and self-propelled transporters. Its rich history, combined with technology and experience from four companies within the TII Group, positions Scheuerle as an industry leader.
Nicolas, another key member of the TII Group, has established itself as a specialist in providing heavy-duty vehicles, including self-propelled modular trailers. The company offers compact and modular vehicles for special transporters and road transport. With decades of experience, Nicolas has built a solid reputation for developing modular trailers that cater to the needs of transporting heavy cargo. They provide customized solutions for various industries, such as mining, wind energy, air and space, and more. Nicolas brings a wealth of experience to the table, with a history dating back to and continuous quality improvement.
Kamag, a part of the TII Group, is located in Ulm and has a rich history of manufacturing heavy-duty vehicles. With over 300 employees and a 45,000 sq. meter premises, Kamag specializes in producing modular transporters, terminal logistics vehicles, and industrial vehicles. Their product range includes special transporters, power boosters, and shipyard transporters. Kamag has earned a loyal customer base due to its reliability, efficiency, and quality customer service. They also offer solutions for the air and space industry, as well as the metal industry.
Firstly, you need to understand the common specifications of the hydraulic modular trailer, such as the load capacity, and trailer's dimensions ( including the length, width, and height). For instance, the HIPOTRUK HPG1 offers a wide range of variations and accessories, with axle loads of up to 45 tons at 1 km/h, a dead weight of 13.85 tons for a 4-axle module, and a maximum steering angle of ± 55°. On the other hand, the Nicolas MDE/MDED Modular Trailer can handle up to 34 tons of technical axle load, has a suspension stroke of 600 mm, and a steering angle of up to 55°.
For the load capacity, you should know the weight of equipment you will transport, so that you can choose the right hydraulic modular trailer to handle your specific load requirements.
There are some specific features of the hydraulic systems in German Hydraulic Modular, HIPOTRUK HPG1 and Nicolar MDE/MDED hydraulic modular trailers you should know.
The HIPOTRUK HPG1 hydraulic modular trailer's loading capacity is 45 tons at 5 km/h, a dead weight (for a 4-axle unit) of 13.85 tons, axle compensation of 600 mm, and a maximum steering angle of ±55°. HIPOTRUK HPG1 model steering system adopts Ball Bearing Race Ring Steering, which is more suitable for off-road operations.
Nicolas MDE/MDED hydraulic modular trailers' loading capacity is about 22 tons at 5 km/h and a maximum steering angle of ±55°. Nicolas MDE/MDED model steering system adopts pivot Bearing Steering, which is more suitable for in-plant operations.
The combination forms of modular trailers are very important because the one form of a modular trailer can't help to handle various types of cargo, some cargo may be too high, some may be too long or wide, or too heavy. therefore, your modular trailer has to combine with some accessories to become a Superman to handle different kinds of cargo for you. Below are some common combination forms and accessories for you.
if possible, you can try to visit your potential manufacturers, to check the quality of their products in person, and visit their production workshop and manufacturing process. And it would be a good time to negotiate with your suppliers face-to-face to get a better price and delivery time.
Almost all suppliers would say that their hydraulic modular trailer will be tested before being delivered to customers. but actually, not all of them have corresponding testing equipment or measures to test the products.
For example, Before shipping our Hipo modular trailer, we make sure to thoroughly test them at our factory. This includes driving our trailer for more than 7 days to assess its quality and performance. Key checks include ensuring there are no steering axle errors, no unusual sounds during operations, and no oil leak problems. what's more, we put heavy stones on the trailers to test whether they can meet customer's specific load requirements. Therefore, you should check whether your supplier's quality control measures meet China's quality and safety standards.
It's important to balance between the quality and price of the product. It's a common understanding that extremely low prices can indicate lower quality. This is especially true in the Chinese market, where it's hard to judge a product's quality just by its appearance.
If you find a supplier offering prices 20% lower than the market's lowest, be careful. Low prices can lead to poor quality, and sometimes even scams, so you'd better go to the factory to check their product first before making the purchase. Remember, in business, the cheapest option can often mean higher costs in the long run due to repairs, maintenance, or the need to replace the product entirely.
My advice is to adjust your budget to prioritize product quality. It's better to invest a bit more upfront than to face continuous problems later. Remember, you know we usually get what we pay for.
It is an important investment to buy the best hydraulic modular trailer for your job, if you can buy the right one, it will serve you well for years to come. Buying a China hydraulic modular trailer to combine with your hydraulic modular trailer can be a cost-effective option for you at present. Because the price of Chinese products is only one-third of the price of European products.
We warmly invite you to visit HIPOTRUK. Seeing is believing, and by visiting us, you'll get a true sense of our manufacturing capabilities and experience. You'll see our multiple production lines, advanced machinery, and quality inspection equipment. Plus, you'll meet our professional service team and discuss your requirements directly with our technical engineers. This visit could lead to quicker solutions, better pricing, and improved delivery times. We understand it's a significant journey to visit us, indicating your serious intent to purchase.