Rigid vs. Articulated – Which Dump Truck Is Best for the Job?
Whether you work in the mining or construction industry, having a fleet of new or used construction equipment is required for the completion of any project. Dump trucks are one such example of heavy machinery capable of fulfilling a specific set of tasks in a variety of environments. However, there are actually two different types of dump trucks—rigid and articulated. Both types utilise similar technologies, but they do have their differences.
Rigid Dump Trucks
Rigid dump trucks allow you to transport large quantities of abrasive materials and rocks over long hauls across flat terrain in quarries and mines. The most defining characteristic of rigid dump trucks is the cab and the dump body that sits atop a fixed chassis. The steering is based on a traditional rack-and-pinion steering that features a rear-wheel-drive system. The truck has a single front steering axle and one to two rear axles. This enables the truck to handle more weight without impacting its power.
Articulated Dump Trucks (ADT)
Articulated trucks can handle rough and unruly terrain better than rigid dump trucks. ADTs can handle extreme weather conditions, lower ceiling heights, restricted turning radiuses, and narrow roads. The truck’s cab and rear dump meet at an articulation point that is situated directly behind the cab, giving the truck the ability to pivot. This articulated steering ability allows for better manoeuvring. While ADTs are considered lighter and more versatile, they have a shorter job life than a rigid dump truck.
Which Dump Truck Is Better?
The primary difference between an articulated and rigid dump truck has to do with the design of the frame. Rigid dump trucks come with a fixed chassis, while an articulated truck has a cab that attaches to the tipping body for articulation. The former offers more stability and longevity, while the latter is built for greater flexibility and manoeuvrability. As far as construction machinery in the UK is concerned, both types are used in the mining and construction industries, depending on the type of job they’re handling.
Choosing the Right Truck for the Job
The kind of project you have will ultimately decide what type of dump truck to use. You need to look at a couple of details in order to know which type of truck is suitable for the project:
- Ground Conditions: For projects with a graded surface, rigid dump trucks are the best to use. Job sites with well-established and well-maintained roads that are not too steep prove to be the perfect terrain for rigid dump trucks. On the other hand, ADTs can carry loads over nearly any terrain. Its six wheels and all-wheel-drive system enable it to go through muddy, slippery, and generally softer ground.
- Type of Job: ADTs are commonly used in construction, quarry, and mining operations with short-haul distances across rough terrain. When hauling materials over long distances and on more refined terrain, rigid trucks are the go-to option.
- Size of the Job Site: ADTs are better equipped to manoeuvre in small work sites or areas with limited turning space. Rigid trucks work better on large open spaces or work sites with roads.
Conclusion
There really isn’t a better choice between the two types of dump trucks. Both of them are capable of carrying out their tasks efficiently given the right conditions. If you’re wondering what truck to use on a project, refer to this guide.
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