First Name | Andy |
---|---|
Last Name | Acott |
Email Address | andyaacott@aol.com |
Affiliation | Laydon Composites Ltd |
Subject | Trailer Aerodynamics |
Comment | Laydon Composites Ltd, has been designing and producing truck and trailer aerodynamics since 1994. Our knowledge and experience, working with the trucking industry is vast and our test studies from Computational Fluid Dynamics, Wind Tunnel, Test Tracks and Fleet Tests have revealed a wealth of information. It’s true, the trucking industry, as a whole is very skeptical and can be reluctant to adopt new technologies with claims of high fuel savings, especially if these devices require any type of interaction with the driver or impedes daily operation. There are typically three available technologies for trailer aerodynamics: (a) Nose Devices. Independent test results have shown there is very little gain with nose devices when the tractor is already equipped with an aerodynamic roof fairing and the gap between the back-of-cab, front-of-trailer is optimized. These devices are also susceptible to yard damage when trailer is parked. (b) Boat Tails. There are various types of “boat tails” for the rear, which have claims of high fuel savings but these devices have been shunned by industry experts as being too cumbersome to operate and affects everyday usage. (c) Trailer Skirts. Tests performed by some major trucking fleets have shown 6% fuel saving but the area of coverage is considered “high impact”. For maximum efficiency and ROI, trailer skirts must be made of impact and dent resistant material, easily replaceable, cover the area from the trailer bogey to the landing gear and cover 70% from the trailer bottom rail to the ground, leaving 15 to 16 inches of ground clearance. Trailer Skirts require zero or little maintenance and do not affect daily operations and remain an easily installed emission lowering device. For test results and product information, contact Laydon Composites Ltd. 905-563-0849. |
Attachment | www.arb.ca.gov/lists/ccea2/44-dsc_0686.jpg |
Original File Name | DSC_0686.JPG |
Date and Time Comment Was Submitted | 2007-09-24 11:04:12 |
If you have any questions or comments please contact Clerk of the Board at (916) 322-5594.