SAF-Holland has introduced the lightest weight tandem slider suspension system available in the North American trailer market, ULX40 UltraLite Slider Suspension Axle System with composite spring-ride technology.
Packaged in an all-in-one system, this suspension system meets the needs of today’s demanding transportation environment with longer life, lower maintenance and lower operating costs.
“This new spring-ride suspension product will change the way fleets look at mechanical suspensions,” said Jeff Talaga, executive vice president, Trailer Systems. “It’s an engineered all-in-one system that is lighter weight, offers a lower total cost of ownership, and the industry’s first 10-year suspension and axle system warranty. It will be spec’d by on-highway fleets in the van industry who are looking for a versatile option to help reduce costs for their hauling requirements.”
The ULX40 is a complete integrated slider suspension axle system with composite springs and SAF drum or optional disc brakes. Compared to a steel spring system, the SAF composite spring system is over 80 lbs. lighter.
The composite springs provide the performance of an air ride without the complexity, yet ride quality and handling control that is comparable, according to the company. Because it has fewer components — no shock absorbers, air springs, height control valves or dock lock devices — it’s simpler and easier to maintain.
With a 40,000-lb. capacity, the optimized design of the ULX40 includes a 5.75-in. diameter axle, which provides a 20-lb. weight savings per tandem. The axle is over 30% more rigid when compared to the industry-standard 5-in. diameter axle.
Its proprietary Black Armour corrosion and rust prevention treatment chemically bonds with metal to form a protective layer, SAF said, adding the ULX40 is impervious to water and caustic anti-icing chemicals, offering the protection of galvanization without the weight.
Its 10 Year Durasystem Suspension & Axle Warranty includes the mechanical slider assembly, the SAF X-series 5.75-in.-axle, welded bracketry and the axle connection.
Features of the ULX40 include a Qwik Release Pin Pull for safe and efficient adjustment. With 20% less pulling effort than competitive models, the system allows the slider to be easily adjusted by one person.
SAF Integral air disc brakes are an optional feature on the ULX40. The Integral disc brake’s advanced rotor and hub adapter design provides advanced braking efficiencies, reliability and low cost of ownership. A proprietary bi-metallic casting process creates a uniquely integrated rotor-hub assembly, with a series of ventilation channels for airflow, redirect and controlling high temperatures associated with vehicle braking.
The all-in-one system combined with its low maintenance and lightweight provides fleets with increased payload, increased simplicity, and improved operating efficiency.
