Articulated and rigid haulers – features

Mass transportation of material is frequent in the mining and construction industry. For this, Haul trucks are used, and they can be found in at least two rigid and articulated frame configurations.

The difference between a rigid and articulated hauler is the chassis: In the rigid haulers, the operating cabin and the tipper are located or united in the same structure, while in the articulated tipper the cab is separated.

The selection between one piece of equipment and another in most cases is based on the soil conditions followed by the volumetric capacity, the operating weight, the loading tool such as an excavator, front loader, etc.

The notable operating properties of both teams are listed below:

1.- Traction: Due to the articulation of the vehicle, all the wheels will be able to maintain constant contact with the work surface, providing greater traction compared to a rigid frame tipper.

2.- Applications on rugged surfaces, muddy terrain, soft and slippery surfaces due to its greater traction.

3.- The maneuverability in closed spaces is superior due to the different positions that the truck can adapt to due to the central articulation.

4.- Articulated haulers are manufactured mostly using large tires, which favors their buoyancy, a property required for equipment that works on notably soft surfaces.

5.-Articulated vehicles usually have 4 or 6-wheel drive systems, thus reducing the probability of jamming and its application in extreme environments.

6.- Transport capacities range from 10 to 60 tons in conventional equipment according to the size.

Rigid Haulers

-Due to their rigid structure, they offer greater resistance to high impact loads, so they are designed with a high volumetric capacity and a higher operating weight.

-The load tolerance can range from 35 to more than 250 metric tons depending on the model chosen.

-They offer a better operating cost per metric ton hauled due to the high volumetric capacity of the machine.

  -Most reputable manufacturers tend to incorporate partial operating autonomy in their off-road vehicles.