Pros and Cons of Triaxle and Quadaxle Dump Trucks

Daniel CrowleyAggregate, Dump Trucks

When it comes to choosing a dump truck for a construction project, one of the key decisions that must be made is whether to use a triaxle or quadaxle truck. Both types of trucks have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice will depend on the specific requirements of the project. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the pros and cons of triaxle and quadaxle dump trucks, and help you to decide which one is right for your project.

One of the key advantages of a triaxle dump truck is its size. Triaxle trucks are typically smaller and more maneuverable than quadaxle trucks, which makes them ideal for use in tight or confined spaces. This is particularly important on construction sites, where space can be limited and access may be difficult. According to the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA), triaxle trucks are often used in urban areas, where their smaller size and maneuverability are a major advantage (NRMCA, n.d.).

Another advantage of triaxle dump trucks is their cost. Because they are smaller and have fewer axles than quadaxle trucks, they are typically less expensive to purchase and operate. This can be a major benefit for construction companies, particularly those working on smaller projects or with limited budgets. According to the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA), triaxle trucks are often used on small- to medium-sized projects, where their lower cost makes them an attractive option (NAPA, n.d.).

However, there are also some disadvantages to using triaxle dump trucks. One of the main drawbacks is their payload capacity. Because they have fewer axles and a smaller size, triaxle trucks are typically not able to carry as much weight as quadaxle trucks. This can be a significant disadvantage on larger projects, where a higher payload capacity may be required. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), quadaxle trucks are often used on large-scale projects, where their higher payload capacity is a major advantage (FHWA, n.d.).

In conclusion, triaxle and quadaxle dump trucks both have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice will depend on the specific requirements of the project. Triaxle trucks are smaller and more maneuverable, which makes them ideal for use in tight or confined spaces. They are also less expensive to purchase and operate, which can be a major advantage for construction companies working on smaller projects. However, they have a lower payload capacity than quadaxle trucks, which can be a disadvantage on larger projects. By understanding the pros and cons of triaxle and quadaxle dump trucks, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for your project.

References:

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). (n.d.). Truck Weight Limits. Retrieved from https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/policy/otps/truck_weight.cfm

National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA). (n.d.). Asphalt Paving Basics. Retrieved from https://www.asphaltpavement.org/for-contractors/paving-basics

National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA). (n.d.). Concrete Basics. Retrieved from https://www.nrmca.org/aboutconcrete/concretebasics.asp