PBS AB Triples Combinations
The ever-increasing popularity of PBS A Doubles has lead some to label them as the new B Double. This has resulted in progressive transport operators looking for the next leap in efficiency, capacity and productivity. The AB Triple combination has proven to be one solution that can improve your freight operational efficiency. Performance Based Standards (PBS) allows AB Triple combinations to carry more mass within a safe and efficient framework leading to better access into port & Grain facilities, distribution centers and other freight hubs that are not accessible by prescriptive road trains.
An AB Triple combination is a specific type of road train configuration in Australia that consists of a prime mover towing three trailers. The make up of the trailers is such that it is the equivalent of one B Double set and a single semi-trailer whilst being towed by a single Prime Mover. Due to the lower tare weight of 1 AB Triple when compared to two separate combinations, the payload is greater than the combined payload of a Prime Mover and semi-trailer and a Prime Mover and B Double.
The layout of an AB Triple consists of a full-size semi-trailer connected to a dolly which is connected to a B Double set. As the name suggests it consists of three trailers leading to the "Triple" in the name and is joined by one A- type coupling and one B- type coupling.
What are the different types of PBS AB Triples combinations?
AB Triple combinations can be used for a variety of different freight tasks. As standard lead and rear semi-trailers are used they can be in any freight-carrying configuration such as; flat deck, curtain sider, refrigerated, logging, tippers etc. Broadly they can be split into two categories carrying cubic freight and carrying mass freight.
The advantage of a 36.5m AB Triple when compared to an A Double, which can be up to the same overall length, is the addition of one extra axle group. This can increase the overall combination mass by up 22.5t for a tri axle group at Higher Mass Limits (HML). This results in greater freight moved per trip in bulk applications such as quarry, grain & fertiliser.
For cartage of cubic freight, an AB Triple can provide additional pallet space over a 36.5m A Double by extending the overall length up to PBS level 3.b limits of 42m. Whilst the length of these combinations limit them in terms of access with only a restricted number of approved roads, in areas they can operate they provide fantastic productivity benefits.
How can BTT Engineering help you get the most out of your PBS AB Triple combination?
BTT Engineering as PBS Certifiers have helped a range of clients obtain approvals for AB Triple operations. We pride ourselves on providing comprehensive support on all areas of the project from start to finish and can highlight any potential problems with PBS certification and also vehicle access and routes which is key when it comes to these longer PBS combinations that have a lot of requirements for operating.
BTT Engineering has a range of services that can help operators of AB Triples which includes permit applications as well as NHVAS Accreditation, training and CoR accreditation. In particular, our experience with AB Triple networks and the roads approved via permit means we can offer the right advice to ensure the correct solution for your business. For more detailed information, reach out to one of our friendly staff today.
Related PBS services & other combinations we can assist with
PBS AB Triple combination FAQs
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Whilst not essential it is strongly recommended that operators comply with a relevant reference vehicle, particularly for operation in Victoria. Not complying with a reference vehicle can result in access request delays, additional bridge assessment fees, reduced mass weights additional permits as well as the potential to be refused access to a particular road or route. For advice for your particular situation, it suggested to contact one of BTT's access specialists.
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Under PBS certification, the total mass of such an AB Triple combination can vary depending on the specific configuration and road conditions it is approved for.
Generally, an AB Triple combination with 3-3-3-3 configuration can have a Gross Combination Mass of 103.6t General Mass Limits (GML), 105.6t Concessional Mass Limits (CML), and 114.1t Higher Mass Limits (HML) but the exact weight permitted on road may differ based on factors like reference vehicle and bridge assessments.
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Yes, if you are breaking your road train up at staging areas and completing dog runs, it may be possible to obtain PBS approval and access permits for your AB Triple to run closer to your destination. This may reduce the length of your dog run or eliminate it all together.
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Yes, having PBS certification for your AB Triple set as well as the A Double set contained within the combination (by removing the lead trailer) results in greater flexibility and useability of your combination. This can result in having 4 potential combinations (Prime Mover and Semitrailer, 26m B Double, 30m A Double, 36.5m AB Triple) which can be swapped between depending on the freight task and level of access required.