SAF-HOLLAND introduces new CBX23 AeroBeam suspension, yard tractor fifthwheel
Tank fleets are among the trucking operations targeted for the new SAF-Holland CBX23 AeroBeam Fixed Frame Air Suspension. The CBX23 AeroBeam was introduced during the Technology & Maintenance Council annual conference in Nashville TN.
The CBX23 AeroBeam is now the lightest weight air suspension in the industry, providing the optimal balance of strength and weight for ultimate performance in standard duty applications including flatbed and tanker trailer operations.
“Expanding the lightweight AeroBeam Series into the on-highway vocational trailer segment supports our promise to bring innovative suspension technology to market,” said Jeff Talaga, SAF-Holland vice-president of sales and strategic development, Americas. “The CBX23 AeroBeam carries with it features that deliver measurable benefits for improved efficiency and safety performance.”
The SAF CBX23 AeroBeam has a base weight of 465 pounds—45 pounds lighter overall than the previous generation CBX23 and 25 pounds per axle lighter than the nearest competitive fixed frame air suspension. Per Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Phase 2 legislation, the 45-pound savings will reduce the GHG gas emission by 660 pounds over 10 years. Setting a new level of excellence, the CBX23AeroBeam is built to stand up to the rigorous demands of standard duty flatbed and tanker applications.
Features of the new suspension include heat-treated cast alloy suspension beams, 80 ksi frame brackets and a 5.75-inch diameter friction-welded axle that is 12% thicker than competitive axles. Covered by a five-year warranty structural warranty, the CBX23 AeroBeam is designed to provide years of trouble-free service. Combined with the streamlined AeroBeam design, the new CBX23AeroBeam provides trailer builders more flexibility. It can be adapted to fit a wide range of trailer types with multiple frame brackets styles, including weld-on tapered top, weld-on with wing and bolt on.
Like all SAF suspension systems, the CBX23 AeroBeam is treated with BLACK ARMOUR, which provides hot dip galvanized level protection without the added weight or cost of HDG. Eco-friendly BLACK ARMOUR chemically bonds with metal to form a protective layer that is impervious to water and stands up against the harsh anti-icing agents used on roadways.
The patented Swing Align system makes maintaining axle adjustment quick and easy. Industry standard service components including air springs, shocks, HCVs, and actuators reduce maintenance costs and downtime. The CBX23 AeroBeam is available with the optional NewP89 or P89 Plus Air Disc Brake System. Backed by a five-Year Warranty, the New P89 sets a new industry standard for value. The P89 Plus is a premium ADB package that includes a seven-year maintenance-free bearing system and premium rotors to provide a significant reduction in the total cost of ownership.
Designed for varying load operations, the SAF Auto-PosiLift Automatic Axle Lift System is available on the CBX23 AeroBeam. The Auto-PosiLift system is programmed to automatically lift the front axle in a trailer tandem a minimum of four inches when it senses that only one axle is necessary to carry the load.
Also new from SAF-Holland is the FW35TT Multi-Feature Enhanced Fifthwheel specifically designed for terminal tractors. The FW35TT is designed not only to exceed the requirements for repetitive coupling, but to thrive in the demanding environment found in terminal operations. The FW35TT features the fast and reliable HOLLAND twin-lock design which prevents kingpin bounce out, the leading cause of coupling delay or failure.
To achieve the durability needed to deliver an increased maximum vertical load capacity rating of 80,000 pounds, the FW35TT top plate is cast with an extra thick top surface to increase life. The entire casting is made from high yield cast steel, and provides top performance in all operating environments. The FW35TTrib structure is second to none in durability. The optimization includes a more robust main rib and kingpin throat structure with added reinforcement to the entire kingpin contact area.
Since uptime is a key issue for fleets, the FW35TT is easy to maintain with exclusive design enhancements. The twin lock jaws are secured with easy-to-remove pins and can be replaced in less than 15 minutes. When the grease-free pocket liners need replacing, it now takes only seconds to pull out the old pocket liners and drop in new ones. And, the new front skirt spring retainer makes for easy yoke shaft replacement.
In addition to increased durability and easy repair, functionality is critically important in terminal tractor applications. SAF-Holland enhanced the lock mechanism cam plate for smoother operation and increased life. And for driver convenience, an integrated automatic secondary lock eliminates the need for a manual handle for activation. A new integrated lock down mode adds an unprecedented level of coupling security by automatically activating when a driver releases the trailer parking brakes. The new double-acting air cylinder holds the lock mechanism in the closed position until the driver re-engages the trailer parking brakes and activates the in-cab release to unlock the fifthwheel. This new lock down mode automatically prevents the FW35TT from being accidentally uncoupled.