Why are trailer beams essential for workshops?
Trailer beams are essential tools in workshops, says Totalkare. Here the company examines their functionality and advantages , emphasising the role in improving workshop efficiency and safety.
Trailer beams are robust steel structures designed specifically to lift trailers without requiring the attached tractor unit to be raised. They are used in combination with mobile column lifts, which provide the necessary lifting power. There are a number of benefits, namely:
- Improved accessibility for undercarriage work
Trailer beams elevate trailers to a height that allows technicians to access the underside without the need for crawling or lying on the floor. This setup simplifies tasks such as inspecting braking systems, repairing suspension components, and conducting chassis assessments. - Reduced equipment dependency
One significant advantage of trailer beams is that they allow trailers to be lifted independently of the tractor unit. This eliminates the need to use multiple mobile column lifts in a set, as only the trailer needs to be raised. For most operations, a configuration of four mobile column lifts, combined with a trailer beam, is sufficient. - Enhanced safety during maintenance
Trailer beams are engineered to distribute weight evenly and securely when used with mobile column lifts. This minimises the risks associated with uneven lifting or improper equipment configurations. By providing a stable platform for trailers, these beams contribute to a safer working environment. - Mobility and flexibility
Trailer beams are designed to be portable, with castor wheels enabling easy movement across the workshop floor. This mobility allows them to be repositioned as needed, offering flexibility in accommodating different trailer sizes and configurations. - Compatibility with diverse trailer types
Different trailers, such as Euro trailers, may require specific lifting heights or configurations. Trailer beams are available in various dimensions to meet these requirements.
Trailer beams are typically suited to maintenance and repair tasks, including:
- Preventative maintenance: routine inspections to ensure trailers meet safety and operational standards.
- Structural repairs: addressing issues with the chassis, suspension, or undercarriage.
- Component servicing: repairing or replacing brake systems, axles, and other critical parts.
- Retrofitting: installing new systems or components that require access to the underside of the trailer.
Trailer beams are commonly used with mobile column lifts, which provide the lifting force necessary to raise heavy-duty vehicles. For instance, a standard mobile column lift may have a capacity of 7,500kg per column and be configured in sets of 4, 6, or 8 columns, depending on the vehicle type and weight distribution. By integrating trailer beams into this setup, workshops gain the ability to lift trailers independently, optimising the use of their lifting equipment. This integration is particularly beneficial for operations that require frequent lifting of trailers without the tractor units.
When incorporating trailer beams into a workshop’s equipment inventory, several factors should be considered:
- Weight distribution: ensure that the trailer’s weight is evenly distributed and does not exceed the lifting capacity of the beams and mobile column lifts.
- Space requirements: trailer beams require sufficient clearance for positioning and operation within the workshop.
- Compatibility: check that the trailer beam’s dimensions and specifications align with the trailers being serviced.
Trailer beams are a practical and efficient solution for commercial vehicle workshops, enabling trailers to be lifted independently of their tractor units. Their ability to provide safe, stable, and unobstructed access to the underside of trailers enhances the efficiency and safety of maintenance operations. As a mobile and versatile alternative to inspection pits, trailer beams are an essential tool for modern workshops seeking to optimise their operations and accommodate a wide variety of vehicles.
