New innovative semi-trailers have composite posts and crossbeams that weigh 40% less than steel./Logging semi-trailer FPInnovations.gif)
FPInnovations reports in the latest issue of FPSolutions that the composite materials used are as strong and durable as steel, but much lighter, which reduced the overall trailer weight. This naturally results in more payload and less fuel burned when travelling empty. The composites are 40% lighter than the equivalent steel, resulting in a saving of 450 kg (990 lb.) when carrying 2.4 m (8 ft.) logs. FPInnovations shows that this could result in savings of up to Canadian $ 6000 per truck per year. The composite components do cost more than steel, but the payback is still quick due to the large savings.
The composite material used is non-corrosive, impact resistant (even at low temperatures), the posts regain their shape after being struck by loader grapples, and the posts are more flexible than steel. FPInnovations indicate that in order to obtain the correct composite properties for log transport applications, the right blend and quantities of ingredients are very important. It has taken seven years of research to arrive at the correct properties. The composite developed is expected to have applications outside of forestry as well. Deloupe, a Canadian company has invested in this research, and the semi-trailers will be launched in 2013. Source: http://www.fpinnovations.ca/files/html/en/fpsolutions/FO_semi_en.html
FPInnovations reports in the latest issue of FPSolutions that the composite materials used are as strong and durable as steel, but much lighter, which reduced the overall trailer weight. This naturally results in more payload and less fuel burned when travelling empty. The composites are 40% lighter than the equivalent steel, resulting in a saving of 450 kg (990 lb.) when carrying 2.4 m (8 ft.) logs. FPInnovations shows that this could result in savings of up to Canadian $ 6000 per truck per year. The composite components do cost more than steel, but the payback is still quick due to the large savings.
The composite material used is non-corrosive, impact resistant (even at low temperatures), the posts regain their shape after being struck by loader grapples, and the posts are more flexible than steel. FPInnovations indicate that in order to obtain the correct composite properties for log transport applications, the right blend and quantities of ingredients are very important. It has taken seven years of research to arrive at the correct properties. The composite developed is expected to have applications outside of forestry as well. Deloupe, a Canadian company has invested in this research, and the semi-trailers will be launched in 2013. Source: http://www.fpinnovations.ca/files/html/en/fpsolutions/FO_semi_en.html