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Types and selection of trailer axles

Mar 11, 2025

Trailer Air SuspensionTypes of semi-trailer axles


Classified by number of axes
Single axle semi-trailer: The structure is the simplest. According to the national standard GB6420-86, the total weight of the semi-trailer is 13.3 tons and below, all of which are single axles. It has a small curb weight, easy manufacturing, and relatively less tire wear.
Double axle semi-trailer: With an increased load capacity compared to single axle semi-trailer, it is more suitable for some scenarios that require slightly higher cargo transportation volume but are not particularly large.
Three axle semi-trailer: This is the most widely used type of ordinary semi-trailer, which can meet the needs of most medium and long-distance cargo transportation and is quite common in road transportation.
Multi axle semi-trailer: The number of axles is usually four or more, including some special purpose semi trailers such as three line six axle, four line eight axle, five line ten axle, six line twelve axle, seven line fourteen axle, nine line eighteen axle, etc. These semi trailers are mainly used for transporting large non disassemblable goods, and their transportation weight limit far exceeds that of ordinary semi trailers. For example, a three line six axle semi-trailer can transport large cargo up to 80 tons, a four line eight axle semi-trailer can transport large cargo up to 100 tons, and a five line ten axle semi-trailer can transport large cargo up to 120 tons.

Drum Brake Axle
Classified by purpose and design
Ordinary transport semi-trailer axle: suitable for the transportation of various common goods, emphasizing universality and stability. The design and manufacturing of the axle will comprehensively consider the needs of various road conditions and types of goods.
Heavy duty semi-trailer axle: specially designed for transporting heavy goods, such as the Darong axle under Darong Group, which adopts a one-piece heat treatment molding process. The axle beam, brake drum/disc, friction plate, etc. have higher thickness and strength, and can maintain stable and good performance output under heavy loads.
Selection of semi-trailer axles

Drum Brake Axle
Consider carrying capacity
Generally speaking, the curb weight, load capacity, and possible additional loads of a vehicle need to be taken into consideration. Insufficient load-bearing capacity may lead to axle damage, affecting driving safety. If the weight of the transported goods is large, it is necessary to choose axles with more axles and stronger load-bearing capacity; If the transported goods are light in weight, a single axle or double axle semi-trailer axle may be sufficient to meet the demand.

Pay attention to the transmission ratio of the shaft
The size of the transmission ratio will affect the acceleration performance and fuel economy of the vehicle. A smaller transmission ratio can provide better acceleration performance, but fuel consumption may increase during high-speed driving; A larger transmission ratio is beneficial for fuel economy during high-speed driving, but acceleration may be relatively slow. Therefore, it is necessary to choose the appropriate transmission ratio axle based on the transportation route and driving habits.

13T Axle

Pay attention to the material of the axle
The material of the axle has a significant impact on its performance and service life. Good materials can ensure that the axle does not deform or break when subjected to high pressure. Some companies specializing in the production of trailer axles will use advanced production processes and high-quality materials to manufacture axles in order to improve their quality and performance. For example, Darong Group provides high-quality axle products for heavy-duty semi trailers by adopting advanced production processes and materials.

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