Products / Axles / Steering (Dual mode)

Dual mode is the future

Dual Mode represents a revolution within the range of customer-oriented products for agricultural machines and public works vehicles. Only one kind of axle, suitable for use both as controlled-steering and self-steering system. This can be decided by the trailer producer at any moment of the manufacturing process: it does not imply any change to the structure, nothing to be welded, only choosing the hydraulic dedicated equipment. The innovative technical solutions, applied both to the structural part and to the hydraulic control, combine all positive aspects marking ADR technology during years into one compact and functional product. The key component is an integral hydraulic cylinder, working also as steering connection rod. The vehicle designer is free to choose the wheels and suspension anchorage points, since the integral cylinder is very compact and takes up only the central part of the axle. This feature also simplifies the installation of the hydraulic system, since all the connections to the cylinders are in the central part of the chassis. More in detail, the controlled steering is provided with a compact high-performance hydraulic system, which optimizes spaces and works at low pressures in order to achieve the best handling qualities and the utmost working economy. The brake cylinder is available with ball head, in compliance with standard ISO 26402 - Steering Systems, fixing compatibility criteria of trailer and tractor steering systems. The self-steering system is provided with an innovative realignment and locking hydraulic cylinder: with ADR original design, it has a very compact absorber, installed in a protected position, and is integrated in the realignment and locking cylinder support. Furthermore, it can be provided with a steering regulator, ADR original design, which makes wheel realignment easier and trailer more reactive, above all on winding roads.

Dual Mode self-steering systems

When the tractor turns, the trailer scrapes its tyres against the road and the strong carcass deformation offers great resistance to movement. The consequences are reduced life for tyres and increase in tractor fuel consumption. A simple and very evident proof of this improvement can be experienced by everyone. With a tandem trailer provided with self-steering system, make a sharp curve on a not very solid road and keep the self-steering system released, then repeat the same curve with the self-steering system locked. If you compare the tyre tracks, you will realize how much energy has been wasted in the two situations. Turning without self-steering system moves much more earth, and consequently requires a higher energy waste. Advantages from using self-steering systems in agriculture are not only economic: lower loads on wheels imply also lower stresses on mechanical components with lower wear and longer life for both bearings and suspension structures.

Dual Mode controlled-steering systems

For all uses where versatility of self-steering axles does not completely meet the users’ needs, ADR group developed STJ, a hydraulic control steering axle, improving reverse motion qualities of multi-axled trailers, so that the operator always knows where wheels are. According to ADR best tradition, our design has favoured functionality and simplicity: this system is controlled by the tractor, but is located on the trailer only. In this way every tractor can be connected to the trailer and makes it work immediately.