Self-checking kingpin launched by ais
Anstee Indication Systems (ais) has announced the launch of a new kingpin which features a self-checking system to detect and alert when the specified kingpin wear threshold is reached, or when a crack or failure occurs – whichever comes first.
Featuring patented technology, the ais Smart Kingpin is said to be ‘game-changing’, and has been designed to help improve road safety and fleet compliance, while reducing operational costs for fleet operators.
The launch follows ais research that found 15 per cent of kingpins at two national fleet operators to be in an unroadworthy/illegal state, despite routine inspections.
ais managing director, Craig Anstee, explained: “The ais Smart Kingpin gives owners and drivers peace of mind that the kingpin is in a safe and legal condition. We feel this is important because the monitoring of kingpins is a time consuming and onerous task that is open to neglection and human error.
“Monitoring kingpin condition not only demonstrates social responsibility by mitigating haulage risk but helps improve fleet performance to reduce the cost of premature part replacement.”
The H50-X kingpin, which has a D value rating of 162Kn and is designed for articulated trailers/semi-trailers, features an internally housed sensor to constantly monitor condition. Alerts are displayed on a trailer-mounted light box and can be integrated with trailer tracking systems to provide remote status alerts.
The ais Smart Kingpin is suitable for factory-fitting and retrofitting, the company adds – ideally at the point of order of new trailers or during trailer refurbishment.
