PBS Quad Axle Semi Combinations
Increasing the number of axles under your trailer is a sure-fire way to increase how much weight your trailer can carry compared to a standard 2 or 3 axle trailer, while maintaining a short package that will get you access that B-Doubles can't. As a result, quad axle semi trailers are being used to provide operators with enhanced mass and palletised space efficiency across a wide range of transport applications in Australia, with combinations often exceeding 20mtrs in overall length.
What are the different types of combinations?
A typical quad axle semi combination is a 6x4 or 8x4 prime mover towing a semi trailer with 4 axles. These trailers may be fitted with front or rear lift axles and are required to have steer axles to assist in maintaining comparable maneuverability and pavement wear to a standard semi.
What do I need to utilise a Quad Axle Semi?
Across most jurisdictions, a PBS Vehicle Approval is a requirement for operating a Quad Axle Semi, there are limited exceptions to this such as some private and port roads.
Operators are required to have their units enrolled in the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS) through accreditation to Maintenance Management due to the combination having a steer axle. Mass Management is also strongly recommended as it provides the ability to operate at the additional mass allowances.
To be able to drive in Victoria at a GCM greater than 46t GCM with a quad axle semi combination you will need to have a GPS device accredited under the Telematics Monitoring Application (TMA) or intelligent access program (IAP) and have a category B or C certified Smart onboard mass (OBM) system integrated with TMA
The quad axle semi also needs to have an anti-lock braking and approved Road Friendly Suspension (RFS) fitted on all axles.
How can BTT Engineering help you get the most out of your PBS Quad Axle Semi-trailer?
BTT Engineering has helped numerous operators in getting their PBS combinations assessed, certified and on the road, including quad axle semis. Our team is capable of handling all aspects of the certification process, ensuring that by the time a job is completed an operator will have all of the necessary approvals in place to start experiencing productivity gains. Aspects we can arrange completion of include:
working out maximum mass limits that your combination dimensions allow
inspecting combinations as a Performance Based Standards certifier
arranging for a PBS assessor to provide a design approval
being able to provide guidance on, and apply for road access, especially to function in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland and ensuring your combination will meet the required reference vehicle dimensions for access in NSW and Vic.
provision of template documentation and initial setup with NHVAS Mass and Maintenance accreditation
referral to a provider who can assist setting up TMA and Smart OBM to meet requirements
Contact us today or alternatively browse our related website links below to find out more information about how we can help with your specific equipment and requirements.
Related PBS services & other combinations we can assist with
FAQs
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A standard quad axle trailer and 3 axle prime mover combination can operate at a maximum of 50.5 tonnes.
Splitting the axle group can allow you to operate at 53.5 tonnes (1-3 or 3-1 Axle group configuration) or 57.5 tonnes (2-2 axle groups). (Please note this may have restricted access)
A twin steer prime mover towing a quad has a maximum capacity of 55 tonnes. (Please note this may have restricted access)
A twin steer truck with a 2-2 trailer can operate at up to 62 tonnes. (Please note this may have restricted access)
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The length of a combination will be determined by what access requirements you have. broadly speaking overall lengths fall into 3 categories
Less than 20m and performing at PBS Level 1
Greater than 20m but still performing at PBS Level 1 (typically overall length can be pushed to 21-21.5m before it fails to meet PBS Level 1 turning performance) - Please note this may have restricted access
Greater than 20m and performing at PBS Level 2 (Overall length can be stretched to 23m or beyond. Please note this may have restricted access
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Access is the main benefit. Operators may find that getting through the last mile to the destination is not possible with the trailers connected, while quad axle semis can get you where you need to go.