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What is the history of the articulated dump truck?

Dump trucks are some of the most used and useful heavy duty vehicles seen on the roads and at construction sites. Although its function is quite simple, the number of different types of dump trucks that are used is numerous, specialized for many different jobs and materials. Before purchasing a new or used dump truck, be sure to determine whether a standard type or a more versatile articulated design will be the best choice for its intended use.

Articulated Dump Truck – Beginnings

Also known as an articulated hauler, this new type of dump truck design arose out of necessity when the regular design of these vehicles did not meet the needs of the job on certain types of terrain. Construction companies were increasingly forced to redesign this useful work truck as it was found to be limited when it came to maneuvering on a construction site consisting of a deep or uneven terrain contour, hills, mounds or obstacles. similar that prevented the normal use of a Standard Framed Vehicle carrying tons of material.

Some preliminary versions of dump trucks were designed that were joined in the middle so that the vehicle was not a complete and inflexible unit; then Volvo designed the first ADT which went into commercial production in 1959. The trucks were developed with the main driveshaft repositioned at the rear of the tractor to provide maximum traction and excellent maneuverability. Steered by a hydraulic system with levers instead of a steering wheel, turning and moving over rough or hilly terrain became much easier with this particular axle location, and a two-part bonded vehicle that was more stable and less rigid was the result. Welcome.

Articulated Dump Trucks – Current Design

With improvements in vehicle and equipment technology, the ADT has been transformed into a robust, versatile and powerful vehicle that is much easier to use than its predecessors – this dynamic work vehicle can get in, out and over almost any type of terrain. . . Modern versions are built today not only by Volvo but also by Terex, Caterpillar, John Deere, Moxy, and some other dump truck manufacturers. These vehicles typically have four-wheel drive, manual or automatic gears, and run on large, construction-ready tires that can traverse deep, slippery surfaces. A transmission shaft is used that is articulated by joints provided with splines; newer models are built with conventional or lever steering.

Having the highest drivability is not the only improvement seen with the ADT. They can be equipped with different types of discharge beds, from standard to side dumps, scraper beds and other specialized types that will fit the different needs these trucks must handle.

Articulated dump trucks: main advantages of use

The practical benefits of an ADT compared to conventional rigid frame dump trucks are numerous. Although conventional trucks can carry larger and larger loads, doing so can be dangerous and ineffective if the vehicle cannot travel over the job site terrain. Preventing truck accidents, getting stuck, and being unable to maneuver around sharp turns, corners, hills, valleys, and other obstacles with this style of drivetrain and design is truly possible, taking much of the risk out of the work that trucks normally do. vehicles, as well as increasing workplace efficiency. Although a typical ADT does not haul as much as conventional models, it is still more efficient when considering the potential for the issues listed above, as well as increased fuel usage when negotiating a larger, heavier truck on terrain job sites. in bad shape.

ADTs may not be as necessary in smaller workplaces or for transporting material longer distances; however, those companies facing difficult work situations will gain a lot if they add an ADT to the work fleet. In fact, history has taken an ordinary dump truck and produced a hard-working, ground-covering articulated dump truck version.

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