New plastic cladding for tipper semi-trailers with aluminium box body

The S.KI AK tipper semi-trailer with aluminium box body is now available with a new plastic body cladding. Schmitz Cargobull is working on this with a reputable specialist in technical plastics.

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Corroded and worn body finishes make unloading more time-consuming, complex and, last but not least, more dangerous, as the load can only really start sliding properly at extreme tipping angles. Plastic body cladding ensures that the load slides from the loading surface more quickly and without leaving significant residue. The new OKULEN® coating prevents bulk goods from adhering to the floor of the body and optimises the tipping process. This ensures a lower tipping angle and reduces the risk of the semi-trailer tipping to the side during the tipping procedure resulting from bulk goods not running out evenly. In addition, there are daily savings due to reduced unloading times and lower cleaning requirements.

The new plastic cladding comes in two side heights (300 mm and 900 mm) and is clearly identifiable by its blue finish. Plastic plates with a thickness of 12.5 mm (SKI 7.2 and 8.2) and 10 mm (SKI 9.6 and 10.5) are used to clad the body, which are installed floating, welded and bolted to the floor and the bulkhead at the front. The cladding is secured by aluminium profiles to the side walls and bulkhead, and sealed against falling bulk goods. Silicone round cords to pack out the longitudinal bending slots in 9.6 m and 10.5 m body lengths also provide the additional benefit of minimising the ingress of fine bulks goods (e.g. seeds) into the bending slots, preventing soiling and contamination of the cargo area.

The plastic cladding is eligible for “De Minimis” for the German market with the Federal Office for Goods Transport.

This further development of the S.KI VOLUME AK tipper trailer is Schmitz Cargobull’s response to the growing demand for vehicles for bulk transport, specifically for agricultural products. The stepframe design of the vehicle has also been available with the proven Schmitz Cargobull axle since September 2018.

The S.KI VOLUME AK tipper semi-trailer for bulk transport reduces unladen weight by up to 150 kg and lowers the side loading height by 160 mm, whilst maintaining the same body volume. This makes side loading even easier and helps to protect against damage. This practical solution offers a wider scope for application and increases the potential payload. Thanks to the lower loading edge, loading and unloading pallets through the rear wall is also easier than even before.

What’s more, the lower overall height can help to reduce the vehicle’s centre of gravity, increasing ride stability and vehicle stability while tipping as a result. The new design also guarantees access through low-roofed warehouses and gates, while ensuring that you are safe to drive under silo loading stations. The stepframe model of the S.KI VOLUME AK tipper semi-trailer is available with a body measuring 45 to 59 cubic metres. The chassis frame features an 80 mm offset at the front at the height of the landing gear. This stepframe construction and special contour under the body enables the chassis to be recessed into the body floor at the front. High-volume bodies with the popular, straight chassis frame will remain on the market.