What is a Wafer Deck Trailer?
A wafer deck trailer, also known as a low-profile or low-clearance trailer, is a specialised type of transport vehicle designed to carry loads that require a low deck height. These trailers are especially useful for transporting tall or heavy machinery, oversized equipment, and other large items that might not fit on a standard trailer due to height restrictions. The wafer deck trailer’s low height allows for the safe and secure movement of such loads, often avoiding the need for special permits related to height overages on public roads.
Design and Features
The defining characteristic of a wafer deck trailer is its ultra-low deck height. This design reduces the overall height of the load, making it easier to navigate under bridges and through tunnels, where clearance can be a concern. The trailer typically features a flatbed with reinforced flooring to handle heavy loads, and it often has multiple axles to distribute the weight evenly, enhancing stability during transport.
Wafer deck trailers are engineered to carry heavy, bulky, or tall items such as construction equipment, industrial machinery, and prefabricated structures. Their design allows for the efficient loading and unloading of these items, often using cranes or other heavy lifting equipment.
Application in the Real World: Phelan Haulage
One notable example of wafer deck trailers in action is Phelan Haulage’s recent project involving the transport of a 7-tonne kiosk for a water treatment plant. The operation required not only the specialised wafer deck trailer but also the use of a HIAB crane, a type of truck-mounted crane known for its precision and versatility.
The HIAB crane was essential for lifting the large, heavy kiosk onto the wafer deck trailer. Due to the low deck height of the trailer, the load remained within legal height limits, ensuring safe and secure transportation across various terrains. The combination of the HIAB crane’s lifting capability and the wafer deck trailer’s stability and low profile made it possible to move the kiosk without the need for additional permits or route adjustments, saving both time and resources.
Safety and Security
Safety is a paramount concern when transporting heavy and oversized loads. Wafer deck trailers, like the one used by Phelan Haulage, are equipped with various safety features to secure the load during transit. These may include specialised tie-down points, reinforced side rails, and adjustable suspension systems to maintain balance and prevent shifting.
In the case of the 7-tonne kiosk, Phelan Haulage’s team meticulously planned the entire process, from lifting the kiosk with the HIAB crane to securing it on the wafer deck trailer. The careful coordination ensured that the load was transported without incident, maintaining the integrity of the kiosk and avoiding any disruptions to the water treatment plant’s operations.
Conclusion
Wafer deck trailers are a vital tool in the transportation of heavy, tall, and oversized loads. Their low deck height and robust design make them ideal for safely moving items that would be challenging to transport on standard trailers. Companies like Phelan Haulage exemplify the practical application of these trailers, using them in conjunction with specialised equipment like HIAB cranes to ensure that even the most challenging loads are moved safely and securely. Whether it’s a 7-tonne kiosk for a water treatment plant or other industrial equipment, wafer deck trailers provide a reliable solution for complex transport needs.
