SSAB design new convex-formed tipper body

Combining traditional box tipper flexibility with the lightweight advantages of a half-pipe tipper

SSAB, the Swedish wear-resistant steel specialists, have established a new design principal for tipper bodies, called Arc Design, which combines the flexibility of a traditional box tipper with the lightweight advantages of a half-pipe tipper.

The key feature of the new design is a convex-formed tipper bottom made of Hardox wear plate, which absorbs heavy loads, increases durability and reduces tipper weight.

Arc Design, which supports the weight of the load in a similar way to a vault in a building, is said to be particularly suitable for tippers and dumpers that transport sand, gravel, rocks and scrap. Because of its curved tipper bottom, there is also extra space for exhaust heating to help prevent materials from sticking.

‘This design protects the body’s underlying structure from damage, such as dents form big stones,’ said Bo Lindstrom, development engineer at SSAB.

According to SSAB, extensive testing has demonstrated the advantages of the convex design over other body types. With the new Arc Design, tippers can now be manufactured that are 30–50% lighter, more durable and able to tip backwards or to the side – all while carrying nearly as much volume as a traditional tipper.

SSAB say two companies, including Volvo Trucks Russia, have already field tested the Arc Design tippers with positive results.