Low bed semi trailer has a wide range of uses and is an indispensable part of the logistics and transport field. It can carry many kinds of goods, like steel, building materials, cement, coal, and timber. It can also carry chemicals, etc. It can complete long-distance trips to transport bulk cargo. To choose the right low bed semi trailer, it is important to know the load capacity of the low bed semi trailer.
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What Is A Low Bed Semi Trailer ?
Specialized trailers called low-bed semi-trailers are designed for transporting construction machinery, agricultural equipment, and other large-scale equipment. These trailers use high-strength steel with a yield strength of 700 or more. It gives them a solid base for durability and carrying capacity. Low-bed trailers have a lower platform and more stable structures. This makes them better for hauling large items than flatbed trailers.
Factors Affecting the Load Capacity of a Low Bed Semi Trailer
Several factors influence the loading capacity of low-bed semi-trailers. These factors include chassis material, axle quantity, and loading platform dimensions. Key details include:
Chassis Material: T700 steel is known for its high strength. It resists abrasion and impact. It can handle pressure and heavy loads, so it’s great for carrying heavy goods. In contrast, aluminum alloy is for lightweight cargo, not heavy cargo.
Axle Quantity: The number of axles on a trailer significantly affects its load capacity. For instance, a 2-axle low bed trailer can carry up to 50 tons, while a 4-axle low bed semi trailer can handle up to 80 tons.
Loading Platform Dimension: The size of the loading platform is crucial. Larger platforms can hold more goods, especially for extra wide or heavy loads.
Common capacities for low bed trailers
The capacity of a low-bed trailer typically varies depending on the number of axles.Truckman offers a variety of common load options. These include 50 TON, 60 TON, and 100 TON. specific configurations for each capacity are listed below:
| Capacity | Axles | Axle Load Capacity | Price (USD) |
| 50 TON | 3 axles | 3x13000kg | $10,000-15,000 |
| 60 TON | 4 axles | 4x14000kg | $16,000-19,000 |
| 100 TON | 4 axles | 4×20000 kg | $16,000-20,000 |
In addition, Truckman offers customized trailer options of 100 TON and up to meet specific customer needs. Our team ensures that the highest quality materials and technologies are utilized in the design and manufacturing process to ensure the stability and safety of the trailer. Each trailer option can be configured to fit the customer’s actual application scenario. Examples include increasing the number of axles, reinforcing the structure, or choosing a specific type of axle brand (e.g. FUWA).
How to Calculate Load Capacity?
The load capacity of a low bed trailer is calculated based on the number of axles, load capacity per axle, and overall design. Truckman has put together a detailed methodology and procedure for calculating the capacity of a low bed trailer:
Determine the number of axles
Typically, the more axles, the greater the trailer’s load capacity. For example, a low bed trailer with 3, 4 or more axles.
Load capacity per axle
The axle load capacity is the key parameter of the trailer’s carrying capacity. This value is usually determined by the axle brand (e.g. FUWA, BPW, etc.) as well as the trailer manufacturer’s design. For example, some models of axles may have a capacity of 16,000 kg or 25,000 kg per axle.
Calculation of total load capacity
According to the number of axles and the load capacity per axle, the total load capacity can be calculated:
Total load capacity = load capacity per axle x number of axles
For example, if the trailer has 4 axles and the load capacity of each axle is 16000 kg, then the total load capacity is:
16000kg x 4 = 64000kg
Considering the trailer’s own weight
In practice, the weight of the trailer itself needs to be subtracted to obtain the net load carrying capacity of the trailer. The weight of the trailer will usually vary depending on the design and material of the trailer.
The formula is as follows:
Net load carrying capacity = Gross load carrying capacity – trailer deadweight
Choosing the Right Low Bed Semi-Trailer
Selecting the right low-bed semi-trailer involves considering the goods to be transported. You must look at load capacity and purchase budget.
Transported Goods: A standard low-bed semi-trailer is suitable for smaller items, such as construction machinery and agricultural tractors. For larger equipment like generators and mining equipment, a larger low-bed semi-trailer is advisable.
Loading Capacity: Attention to the trailer’s loading capacity is essential to meet transport weight requirements.
Purchase Budget: Budgeting is a crucial step in purchasing a low-bed semi-trailer. Customers should start with a preliminary budget. They can adjust it based on the vehicle’s configuration and their needs.
Low Bed Semi Trailer Maintenance Tips
The semi-trailer is a vital transport tool in the logistics industry. It needs regular maintenance and repair to avoid wear and tear or vehicle failure. This upkeep keeps it working and makes it last longer.
Check the wear on brake pads regularly to ensure they are in good condition.
Maintain proper tire pressure for stability and safety. Regular checks are necessary to meet the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements.
Regularly inspect chassis fasteners for tightness to ensure driving safety.
Make sure the vehicle’s lights and electrical systems work. Repair or replace broken parts.
Summary
The loading capacity of a low-bed semi-trailer is crucial. It determines how much it can carry and the benefits it can offer customers. Paying close attention to the trailer’s load capacity and maintenance will help you make an informed choice.