Keeping Your Cool - Great Dane Trailers

01 Cover Corp 7/16/13 7:51 AM Page 1
V15 • 2
Keeping Your Cool
Advanced Foam Insulation Technology
Supporting the Load
Exceptional Flatbed Main Beam Strength
Different By Design
Benefits of Composite Truck Bodies and Cold Plate Technology
02 Letter_Calendar 7/16/13 9:12 AM Page 2
Great Dane Event
Johnson Refrigerated Truck Bodies Event
August
August 22-24
Great American Trucking Show (GATS)
Dallas, TX
Innovative Custom-Designed Solutions
September
Dear Customer,
September 22-23
National Lease Annual Meeting
Chicago, IL
At Great Dane we pride ourselves in finding creative, cost-effective ways to
provide our customers with more customization and more solutions designed to
meet unique needs.
September 30-Oct 4
IQPC's 11th Cold Chain & Temperature
Management Global Forum
Chicago, IL
October
October 14-16
International Food Distribution Association (IFDA)
Orlando, FL
In this issue of Evolving Trailer Technology you’ll learn why one of the nation’s
largest truckload fleet trusts Great Dane’s attention to detail and quality of build to
provide superior performance in one of the industry’s most comprehensive terminal
networks. We’ll also introduce you to a refrigerated carrier who values Great
Dane’s fit and finish, curb appeal and temperature reliability.
Next, learn about how Great Dane’s highly secure roof attachment method makes
our trailers stronger and more durable, and how our investment in a state-of-the-art
modular panel foaming process creates longer-lasting refrigerated trailers that help
customers lower their cost of ownership.
Gone are the days of viewing the trailer as just a “box on wheels.” Technology
and years of experience have enabled Great Dane engineers to create trailers with
numerous benefits for our customers. From innovative components to advanced
manufacturing process, today’s trailers are truly marvels of modern technology.
Visit our website
www.greatdanetrailers.com
Or connect with us online
facebook.com/greatdanetrailers
@_greatdane
linkedin.com/company/great-dane-trailers
Questions or Comments?
Email us: ett@greatdanetrailers.com
Or write to:
Evolving Trailer Technology
Great Dane Trailers
P.O. Box 67
Savannah, GA 31402
2
V15 • 2
Regards,
Brandie M. Fuller
Vice President, Marketing
Great Dane
V I5 • 2
03 Contents 7/17/13 10:36 AM Page 3
4
5
Great Dane Spotlight
• New Mobile Application
• Top Green Provider for 2013
Truck Body Spotlight
• Benefits of Composite Truck Bodies and
Cold Plate Technology
• Pizza Wholesaler Relies on FleetWise
6
Case Study – California Overland
8
Inside Track
• Reliable Reefers Deliver on Promises
• Everest Reefers-- A Smart Investment
• Industry's Most Advanced Foam
Insulation Technology
• A History of Innovation
10
Inside Track
• Supporting the Load – Flatbed Main
Beam Strength
• Popular Load Securement Options
11
Case Study – Swift Transportation
12
Vendor View
14
Inside Track
Raising Roof Construction to New Heights
Swift Delivery and Spec'ed for Safety
• Accuride's Accu-Light Wheel End
• Hendrickson's Zero Maintenance Dampening
15
Inside Track
AdvantEDGE- Keeps the Show on the Road
Evolving Trailer Technology is published by
Great Dane.
Evolving Trailer Technology
3
4 News 7/17/13 10:23 AM Page 4
GREAT DANE SPOTLIGHT
G
reat Dane recently debuted its first mobile application
(app), at this year's Mid-America Trucking Show. It is
now available to download for free as an iPhone app from
the Apple App Store and for Android devices through
Google Play.
The main focus of the new, user-friendly app is to provide
comprehensive access for owner/operators and truck drivers
to easily locate the nearest Great Dane branch, dealer or
authorized parts and service facility. The app provides
location-specific phone numbers, hours of operation and
GPS-enabled mapping.
The functionalities of Great Dane's mobile app also include
the ability to access the company's AdvantEDGE national
fleet services network, which includes Emergency Road
Service (ERS) in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Other
features include information on upcoming company events,
product information and helpful links to company literature
and social media sites, all at the touch of a finger.
"Hundreds of thousands of Great Dane trailers are being
hauled all over the Western Hemisphere," said Brandie
Fuller, Vice President of Marketing at Great Dane. "That's
why it's important for us to utilize the latest available
technology and tools to connect with our customers, making
sure they have access to our products and services 24/7,
whether they're in busy metro areas or in the middle
of nowhere."
Great Dane Named
Top Green Provider for 2013
G
reat Dane was recently chosen by
Food Logistics, the only publication
dedicated exclusively to the food and
beverage supply chain, as a Top Green
Provider for 2013. The Top Green
Providers list focuses on sustainability in
the global food supply chain with profiles
of companies who are exceeding industry standards in their sector.
was Great Dane’s patented
ThermoGuard product, an exclusive
thermoplastic refrigerated trailer lining.
Great Dane is the only trailer manufacturer
included in this year's list. Its inclusion
reflects our company’s commitment to
providing customers with innovative solutions to ensure their operations run with
the highest efficiency. Specifically noted
The key to ThermoGuard is that it does
not degrade at the same speed as
traditional insulation. After two years it is
able to maintain its original insulation
performance, which means the trailer’s
cooling unit does not have to work
harder or longer to maintain internal
temperature. This, in turn, saves fuel and
reefer unit wear and tear over time.
4
V15 • 2
Compared to traditional refrigerated
trailer linings, ThermoGuard extends the
insulation lifespan of the trailer, while
also reducing weight gain resulting from
water vapor absorption over time.
A reduction
in weight
and fuel
also means a
reduction of
CO2 emissions
over the life of the trailer.
Companies on this year’s Top Green
Providers list were profiled in the June
2013 issue of Food Logistics, as well as
online at www.foodlogistics.com.
To learn more about ThermoGuard, visit
www.greatdanetrailers.com/thermoguard.
5 JRTB News 7/17/13 10:24 AM Page 5
TRUCK BODY SPOTLIGHT
Johnson Truck Bodies:
Different by Design
nationwide choose Johnson equipment because of its
F leets
unique and effective construction features and benefits, including
steel frame and interior panels, a barrier is created, so heat cannot
be transferred from the outside into the body.
a very high thermal rating, significant panel strength, extreme
durability and a smooth exterior.
Innovative Cold Plate Technology
Thermally Efficient
Johnson has used all-electric cold plate technology for the past 50+
years due to its reliability and efficiency. Over time Johnson has
evolved the technology and launched innovative cold plate systems
with active evaporators to satisfy non-traditional and extreme route
requirements. Switching from traditional mechanical refrigeration
units results in a significant reduction in diesel consumption and
CO2 output.
The void-free, high pressure, urethane foam insulation system
provides structural integrity and the highest insulation value in the
industry. All reinforced panels are welded, foam insulated under
high-pressure, and fiberglass bonded. By utilizing a proprietary,
non-conductive, strong, fiberglass/polyester pultrusion between the
Johnson’s all-electric refrigeration (available as an option) provides
maximum flexibility for distributors who are looking to stay compliant
with strict idling rules while reducing their operating costs. They are
also EXEMPT from the California Air Resources Board’s Transport
Refrigeration Unit Air Toxic Control Measure.
Impervious to Moisture
Johnson’s exclusive seamless and rivet-free fiberglass panels are
impervious to moisture, and a durable tubular welded steel
superstructure is completely encapsulated in urethane foam and
fiberglass to resist rust and corrosion.
Pizza
Wholesaler Relies on FleetWise
Pizza Wholesale of Lexington, Inc. in
Paris, Ky. has been in business for 33
years. According to its Director of
Logistics & Warehousing, Steve Wolf,
“We are a full line distributor of Hunt
Brother’s Pizza, toppings and side items
prepared at our customers’ locations,
primarily convenience stores. It is
critical that we deliver all food items at
optimal temperature and the cold plate
application is our preferred method.
FleetWise
As cold plates age it is imperative that
we can rely on vendors to refurbish the
boxes as close to their original state as
possible. This extends the life of our cold
plates and saves capital that would otherwise be used to purchase new units.”
To ensure that load temperatures are
always maintained, the company
depends on Johnson’s authorized service
program, FleetWise, which is available
through Great Dane branch and select
dealer locations. Wolf says, “We go
through a “top-to-bottom” refurbishment using the FleetWise program to
replace refrigeration components,
shelving, flooring, fiberglass, doors, paint
and electrical, which has proved
beneficial in extending the life of our
Blizzard truck bodies. The key benefits of
the program are the ability to have
decent turn-around time and good
craftsmanship, which extends the
life of Pizza Wholesaler
boxes by six years.”
Peace of Mind
FleetWise, Johnson's authorized service network,
allows customers peace of mind knowing that
every FleetWise location provides consistent
high-quality service and customer care.
For FleetWise services and locations go to:
http://www.johnsontruckbodies.com/fleetwise
Evolving Trailer Technology
Scan to learn more about FleetWise.
5
6-7 California Case Study 7/16/13 11:27 AM Page 6
CASE STUDY
Reliable Reefers Del i
California Overland, Ltd. keeps its cargo at the right temperature in
its fleet of Great Dane Everest SS Refrigerated trailers
Russ Meyer,
California Overland CEO
C
alifornia Overland, Ltd.,
is a family-owned
company established in
2001. It operates refrigerated
and tanker trailers pulled by
company and owner-operated units. The fleet serves the 48
contiguous states and Canada, hauling a variety of products
including fresh produce, ice cream, meat and other foods.
California Overland relies on Great Dane reefers to haul its time
and temperature-sensitive freight safely over long distances.
Explains Russ Meyer, CEO of the company, “We are a refrigerated
carrier based in Wabasha, Minn. and we have a terminal in
Greenwood, S.C. We operate 125 power units that service the
entire USA with a brokerage to back up our fleet with team
service. We also operate 20 liquid tankers used exclusively for
pet food products. Our refrigerated trailer fleet consists of 135
trailers. We are now purchasing 53' Great Dane Everest SS
refrigerated trailers.”
Meyer goes on to say that the fleet purchases all of its Great Dane
trailers from a Great Dane dealer in Albert Lea, Minn., Crossroads
Trailer. "We feel Crossroads is on the cutting edge with the
recommended improvements to our specifications.”
6
V15 • 2
“California Overland prides itself in the service provided to our
customers,” Meyer says. “We make promises to our customers and
we keep those promises. We are in a world today that is very
demanding for all involved in the food chain. Our commitment to
our customers has allowed us to grow dramatically over the past
few years because we are dependable. Part of our success comes
from the equipment that we roll down the highways and Great
Dane has played a major role. Great Dane has proven qualities,
such as fit and finish, curb appeal, and temperature reliability that
play a major part in the dependability, resale and image for
California Overland.”
Right Spec
California Overland trailers include extra interior lights for safety
and added 16-inch scuff plating to protect inside walls from damage. In addition to the interior specs, “Our refrigerated trailers are
spec’d with Meritor Air Ride suspensions and aluminum wheels
with 22.5-in rubber. We run Thermo King SB 111 units and Carrier
X2500 units to provide our refrigeration” notes Meyer. These
trailers also come equipped with GPS systems to monitor the
trailers via satellite.
Meyer is happy with his Great Dane Everest SS trailers and says,
“We are very pleased with Great Dane and the service they
provide to us.”
6-7 California Case Study 7/16/13 11:28 AM Page 7
l iver on Promises
"We make promises to our customers and we keep those
promises. Part of our success comes from the equipment
we roll down the highways."
- Russ Meyer, California Overland, CEO
Everest Reefers
A Smart Investment
Designed to meet the demands of a dynamic refrigerated transportation industry, Everest reefers—including
TL and SS models for long haul truckload carriers and CL for specialized, foodservice and multi-temp
applications—meet stringent standards and help fleets keep perishable loads at just the right temperatures.
Key Features
• Satin-Finish Stainless Steel Rear Frame
• Corrosion-Fighting Stainless Steel Front Bottom Rail
• PunctureGuard Lining
• 100% LED Lamps and Long Life Lighting System
• Platinum Performance Plus Wheel End System
(with exclusive six-year warranty)
• Long Life Floor System (Heavy-duty, moisture resistant,
anchored by corrosion protected Magni-coated screws and
completed with an impact-resistance thermoplastic sub-pan)
Also available with our exclusive ThermoGuard and CorroGuard technologies
for maximum lifespan.
Evolving Trailer Technology
7
8-9 Inside Track Insulation 7/19/13 7:50 AM Page 8
INSIDE TRACK
Keeping
Your
Everest Reefers Feature Industry’s
Most Advanced Foam Insulation Technology
Great Dane Everest reefers are engineered to stringent standards
and floors with expanding foam, relying only on rudimentary timers,
to be tougher, last longer and operate more efficiently than their
look and “feel” to control the foaming application.
predecessors and competitors. One of the key manufacturing
processes that separates Everest reefers from less highly engi-
In addition to be being time consuming and very messy, this manu-
neered alternatives is Great Dane’s state-of-the-art modular panel
al foam injection process often resulted in an inconsistent foaming
foaming process—the product of many years of research, develop-
application, and regularly created variations in the foam’s density
ment and refinement.
as well as concealed gaps in the insulation (voids)—both factors
that degrade a trailer’s insulation performance and thermal effi-
t its heart, a refrigerated trailer’s primary job is to keep the
A
trailer’s cargo at the required temperature from the time it’s
loaded until its delivery at the appointed destination. And perhaps
ciency. This technique is especially problematic when the injected
foam encounters barriers or turns corners, often causing the foam’s
cellular structure to compress or otherwise distort.
no component is more critical in performing that job well than the
trailer’s insulation package, including the quality of the insulating
After adopting the new automated panel foaming process in our
foam in the sidewalls, floor and roof.
Wayne plant, the benefits of this precise technique were quickly
realized, leading Great Dane to make a multi-million dollar invest-
In the 1980s, Great Dane became the first trailer manufacturer to
ment to duplicate the technology in our other reefer plants located
adapt a modern computer-controlled panel foaming process at its
in Brazil, Indiana and Statesboro, Georgia.
Wayne, Nebraska manufacturing plant. Before that time, Great
Dane and other refrigerated trailer manufacturers relied on a 360-
Today, our modular panel foaming process eliminates the guess-
degree mandrel foaming process (sometimes called “foam-in-place”)
work by employing computer-controlled technology to precisely
that required factory workers to manually fill trailer sidewalls, roofs
control critical foaming parameters including temperature, mix
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8-9 Inside Track Insulation 7/19/13 7:50 AM Page 9
History
A
of
Innovation
Great Dane's reputation for innovation in refrigerated trailers dates
back to the 1940s when the company introduced the industry’s first
refrigerated trailer with a wet ice
bunker and blower system for
ratios, pressures and foam metering during application. The result is void-free panels
of unmatched consistency for each customer’s specified insulation thickness. In other
words, consistent thermal performance throughout each panel.
hauling produce in and out of
Florida. That legacy of leadership
in refrigerated trailer technology
This advanced panel foaming process also enhances liner adhesion and produces
continues today, supported by
consistently flat, smooth linings backed by equally consistent insulating foam. The
Great Dane’s exclusive thermal
result is not only improved thermal performance, but also a more aesthetically pleas-
laboratory in Savannah, Georgia,
ing trailer with interior walls that are less susceptible to damage during loading and
the only ATP-certified
unloading operations. Another advantage is that in the event of a serious wreck, an
thermal testing facility in the
entire trailer wall or roof panel can be replaced with another panel of equal appearance and insulating performance.
Leaving the Past Behind
As a leading producter of refrigerated trailers, Great Dane has abandoned the
older foam-in-place mandrel process in favor of today's state-of-the-art alternative.
As a result, these highly automated panel foaming methods are now producing
smoother, more consistent reefer walls, floors and roofs; providing better thermal
efficiency; and creating longer-lasting refrigerated trailers that help customers lower
their cost of ownership.
United States.
Thanks in part to the unique capabilities of this testing facility, Great
Dane’s reefer customers can rest
assured knowing that their trailers
have been designed and tested to
provide the highest levels of
thermal efficiency and performance. Not only at the time of
From our perspective, why would customers want it any other way?
manufacture, but for many years
to come.
Evolving Trailer Technology
9
10 Inside Track Flatbeds 7/17/13 9:05 AM Page 10
INSIDE TRACK
Supporting
the Load
The Freedom XP's bolted construction
maintains strength while adding flexibility
F
latbed trailer fleets know that proper load support is essential, and that
selecting the right product is paramount to achieving long-term success.
For many fleets the right product is Great Dane’s lightweight, all-aluminum
Freedom XP model. Unlike competitive products, Freedom XP trailers use a bolted
crossmember design instead of welded connections. This is important because
welded joints at high stress zones in an aluminum trailer can lead to significant
strength loss in the aluminum, whereas bolted construction maintains the
aluminum’s strength while adding flexibility to the flatbed's connections. That’s
why airplanes and boats are traditionally riveted and bolted together—to
provide a secure bond with less rigidity to prevent cracking.
Because aluminum is heat-treated, welds on aluminum flatbed trailers are prone
to stress fractures and cracking. Any flaw in the welding of the crossmember to
the web is a potential site for a crack to form over the life of the trailer. A bolted
connection is a much “cleaner” connection and is stronger when subjected to
fatigue loading—a process whereby cracks form when the joint is subjected to
many cycles of otherwise low-stress loads. Bolted construction is also more
consistent and much less susceptible to failure under the repeated loading that
crossmembers are typically subjected to during the life of the trailer.
Whatever the load, the Freedom XP is built to perform like no other, making
them a smart choice for flatbed fleets far and wide.
Popular
Freedom XP
Load Securement
Options
The Freedom XP, Great Dane’s
all-aluminum flatbed trailer combines
versatility and innovation with quality workmanship,
strength and durability in designs that meet the specific
needs of flatbed customers. The following are just a
few of the popular load securement options available
on the Freedom XP:
• Sliding Winches
Standard 4” x 30’ nylon strap winch or Canadian style
3-bar winch on double “L” sliding winch track that is
extruded into the side rail.
• Fixed Winches
Winches mounted between the floor crossmembers are
available in multiple quantities.
• Chain Ties
Pull-up chain ties mounted in the nail strip for use with
chain and binder. These are available in multiple
quantities and spaced per customer request.
• Removable Chain Tie System
Side rail with track in the top for removable aluminum
chain hooks, includes choice of 20, 24, or 32 hooks with
a storage bracket on each side of the trailer.
• Rope Hooks
Welded to the side rail or under the side of the trailer
on crossbeams.
• D Rings
Recessed below the floor level.
Custom load securement systems are also
possible as Great Dane works with
customers to engineer unique solutions to
load securement challenges.
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11 Inside Track Roof Construct 7/16/13 12:32 PM Page 11
INSIDE TRACK
Raising Roof Construction
to New Heights
Great Dane’s highly secure roof
attachment method ensures durability
and longevity
U
nless it incurs damage or
springs a leak, you’re likely not to think much about your
trailer’s roof. It’s pretty much out
of sight, out of mind.
But for those in the know, it’s
clear that a trailer’s roof is a critical design component. Without a
sound roof construction process
the integrity of the entire trailer is
in jeopardy, potentially leading to a wide range of
maintenance issues that can be costly and take your trailer
out of productive service during repair.
Fortunately for Great Dane trailer customers, our dry freight
roof design* offers unmatched durability and longevity due to
its robust construction. It starts with galvanized steel, anti-snag
roof bows that are permanently bonded to the roof sheet with
a premium two-part adhesive. This tension-mounted roof sheet
is then clamped to the top rail with an exclusive extruded aluminum “J” molding that adds strength and durability to the
trailer’s roof and top rail edge. Next, the roof attachment is
closely riveted, bonding a foam sealing tape between the
roof sheet and the top rail, and then finished with a neoprene
sealant to prevent moisture intrusion.
Unlike bending the roof sheet around the top rail, a process
which leaves the roof sheet vulnerable and prone to leaks
during normal trailer wear and tear, Great Dane's highly
secure roof attachment method provides confidence and
dependability for lasting performance.
*Feature also available on Everest reefer models.
Evolving Trailer Technology
11
12_13 Swift CaseStudy 7/16/13 12:35 PM Page 12
CASE STUDY
Swift
Delivery
Swift Transportation spec’s its
Great Dane trailers to safely
deliver loads
wift Transportation began operations in
1966 transporting imported steel
through the ports of Los Angeles to Arizona,
and Arizona cotton for export back through to
Southern California. Now, 46 years later, the
company operates the nation’s largest truckload fleet by incorporating strong core values
with the most comprehensive terminal network
in the industry. The fleet travels more than six
million miles every day and is committed to
safety, service and damage-free delivery.
S
Swift offers long-haul, short-haul, door-to-door,
expedited team and intermodal service. It
operates a fleet of more than 15,000 tractors,
50,000 trailers and 8,700 containers through
a decentralized operations network. In addition, Swift Transportation also operates and
12
V15 • 2
maintains one of the largest temperature-controlled fleets in the industry, which the company says is capable of carrying almost any type
of temperature-sensitive product for delivery to
nearly anywhere in North America.
According to Bert Kinsel, Vice President of
Heavy Equipment for Swift Transportation,
“We are currently running approximately
3,200 Great Dane trailers in dry van and
reefer configurations. Our approach for general linehaul applications is to maintain consistency with our trailer purchases relative to trailer dimensions, body style and components
from a maintenance and upkeep standpoint.
When it comes to specialized applications, we
refine and enhance our base specifications to
meet and/or exceed our customer’s expecta-
12_13 Swift CaseStudy 7/16/13 12:35 PM Page 13
“We place great emphasis and
value in getting it right when it
tions, as well as the demands anticipated for the haul to
provide superior performance and greater value through
maximized usability with the equipment we supply.”
comes to the ordering and
Some of the reasons the fleet purchases Great Dane trailers,
Kinsel states, is because of Great Dane's attention to detail,
quality of build, and the "can-do" attitude. He notes, “The
dealer network supports the finished product, and provides all
of the behind-the-scenes mechanisms to make the magic
happen. It is our opinion that the Great Dane dealer
network is a major value contributor and ensures
the continued success of Great Dane as well
as the suite of goods and services
offered on a go-forward basis.”
The finished product is truly a
specification of trailers for our fleet.
culmination of the latest technology
combined with proven performance
that is easy to maintain and
operate, with safety at the forefront
of every purchase.”—Kinsel
Evolving Trailer Technology
13
14 VendorView 7/16/13 8:31 AM Page 14
VENDOR VIEW
Control
Accuride offers Accu-Lite trailer wheel end solutions
ccuride Corporation offers lightweight, high-durability 2-, 5- and
10-hand-hole steel wheels. In 2007, the company introduced its
Accu-Lite steel wheels that weighed 8 lbs. less than its previous
industry-standard steel wheels. The 2-hand hole Accu-Lite weighs
70 lbs., the 5-hand hole design weighs 68 lbs., and the 10-hand
hole model weighs 66 lbs.
A
Accu-Lite weight-saving steel wheels enable customers to maximize
payload and fuel savings without reducing load ratings. The
weight reduction per wheel translates to a savings of about 64 lbs.
for trailers using the 5-hand-hole model, and 80 lbs. using the
2-hand-hole model.
wheel appearance and enhances corrosion protection; reduces maintenance and refurbishing frequency, thus lowering refurbishing costs.
Refurbishment
Accuride says its painting process provides a durable, long-life finish that requires less frequent refinishing than refurbished wheels.
As a result of the in-house processes that have been specifically
developed to coat steel wheels, the company can control key
parameters critical to assuring optimum paint finish durability and
performance.
The 10-hand hole Accu-Lite steel wheel provides the same load rating as a standard steel wheel with the weight nearing that of an
aluminum wheel, at a fraction of the cost, the company says. Its
engineers researched, designed, and developed Accu-Lite using
high-strength, low-alloy (HSLA) steel—coupled with state-of-the-art
welding and metal forming technology—to yield a wheel that provides optimum strength but is lightweight.
Steel is a good alternative to aluminum
Steel wheels, particularly the Accu-Lite range, provide weight-savings objectives at a lower cost than aluminum wheels. Properly
maintained, steel wheels will outlast the life of the trailer, Accuride
notes. There is a difference in weight between Accu-Lite lightweight steel wheels and aluminum alternatives, but not a radical
difference. Cost is the most relevant differentiator between steel
and aluminum wheels—aluminum wheels cost an average of twoand-a-half to three times the price of a steel wheel.
Corrosion fighting benefits
Accu-Lite wheels are available with Powder Topcoat—standard in
white, gray, or black (custom colors also available)—that improves
Accuride steel wheels are available on new Great Dane trailers as
well as through the company's authorized branch, dealer and
parts distributors.
No More Shocks
Hendrickson Zero Maintenance Damping (ZMD) Technology
Hendrickson has developed a new technology, Zero Maintenance Damping™ (ZMD™),
which is available on select VANTRAAX integrated air slider models. The new technology
enables fleets to eliminate the shocks and the
extra maintenance they demand because the ZMD
suspension uses a chain as a downstop. This means
that the air spring will provide suspension damping
rather than the shocks. Shocks tend to wear out, but air
springs can last more than 10 years—eliminating a
maintenance item and improving damping and ride.
ZMD air springs exchange pressurized air through channels that interconnect the bellows and piston of the air
spring. Unlike a shock absorber, whose damping capacity
is finite and deteriorates with age, ZMD air springs provide continuous damping at a consistent rate over the life
of the air spring. The new technology achieves maximum
suspension damping, which translates to unparalleled ride
quality and cargo protection with increased trailer component life, Hendrickson reported.
Robust chain downstops provide maximum durability,
which helps reduce labor costs and maintenance hassles
over the life of the trailer—and reduce the risks associated
with roadside inspections and CSA violations associated
with worn shock absorbers. They also provide reliable
protection for trailers being loaded onto rail freight cars.
Benefits
14
V15 • 2
• Reduced overall suspension maintenance due
to the elimination of the shock absorber
• Reduced risk associated with roadside inspections for worn or damaged shock absorbers
• Superior ride quality
• Enhanced cargo protection
• Increased trailer component life
• Uniform damping levels over the life of the
air spring
15 AdvantEDGE 7/16/13 7:58 AM Page 15
INSIDE TRACK
AdvantEDGE Keeps the
Show on the Road
The Upstaging fleet relies on Great Dane’s service program to
transport concert equipment on time for showtime
T
he Upstaging fleet of tractor-trailers fills a unique niche—it supplies
lighting systems and transportation for a many of the concert touring acts—equipment that needs to be at concert sites on time, every
time. Excellent maintenance and support are important to Upstaging
because the tickets are sold and the people are coming.
According to Jim Freuck, Upstaging Fleet Manager, “We currently run
322 Great Dane trailers spec’d with double-slotted posts on which we
secure the specialized equipment that we haul. In addition, since we
load at night in the dark, we have six LED lights in the ceiling, the trailer interior is bright white and the fiberglass roofs allow light through
for daytime loading. We also spec 16-ft. ramp carriers for loading
and unloading, so we also need specialized wind deflectors on the
sides of the trailer. We started buying Great Dane trailers in 1978
and have been developing our trailer spec’s ever since for low maintenance and durability.”
Freuck goes on to say, “We started in the AdvantEDGE program a
couple of years ago. In fact, I signed on as soon as it was offered to
me. We keep our fleets of tractor-trailers well maintained because we
can’t afford breakdowns. In addition to the timely service I receive
from the Great Dane dealers across the U.S. and Canada who offer
the AdvantEDGE program, I really appreciate the standardized
billing—it’s one of the aspects of the program that sold me on it.”
Because the fleet travels extensively through the U.S. and Canada, the
tractor-trailers may not return to home base for a year. Freuck says that
he relies on the Great Dane AdvantEDGE program to ensure that the
units are properly maintained until they return home. “I am very
happy with the program,” he adds.
ENROLL FREE TODAY
Experience the benefits of membership in Great Dane's
National Accounts Parts and Service Program
• Single point-of-contact
Easy Access to Services
• More than 100 locations in the U.S. and Canada
Phone: 1-877-600-3433
• Centralized or decentralized ordering
Email: customersupport@multiservice.com • Consolidated invoices and statements
Web Site: AdvantEDGE.GreatDane.net
available in a variety of formats
Evolving Trailer Technology
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f r e e d o m
f l a t b e d s
SE
LT
XP
More Payload. More Versatility. More Long-Term Value.
Powered by Innovation. Great Dane flatbeds are made to maximize
your payload so you can get more return on your investment. Whether
you’re hauling cross-country, across the state line, or inside the city
limits, we have a trailer designed to meet your needs.
• Steel, Combination and All-Aluminum Models
• Wide Range of Standard Features and Options
• Canadian and Special Appearance Packages Available
• 100% LED Lamps and Long Life Lighting System
• Platinum Performance Plus Wheel End System
(with exclusive six-year warranty)
Take immediate delivery from a wide selection of trailers at our
Great Dane branches and authorized dealers. Or let us custom
build a trailer tailored to your exact needs.
Great Dane and the oval are registered trademarks of Great Dane Limited Partnership.
drive away with more
Explore our line of flatbeds online at
greatdanetrailers.com/platform