SAF-Holland Introduces Fixed Frame Air Suspension Series

A new family of fixed frame suspensions is now available from SAF-Holland. The CBXA AeroBeam design offers a balance of strength and weight designed for the demands of on and on/off-highway tanker, bulk hauler, platform and specialty trailer applications.

The lightweight CBXA AeroBeam will be offered in four distinct application-specific models with 23,000-, 25,000- and 30,000-pound capacities. The new design features a lightweight cast steel trailing arm that is 19% more rigid than competitive models, SAF-Holland officials said during a press conference.

"This is one of the lightest weight suspensions on the market at 824 pounds for the total system weight," said SAF-Holland's trailer suspension and axle product manager, Bill Hicks.

Weighing 469 pounds (undressed 16.5" x 7" drum brake axle with no slack adjuster or actuators), the CBXAN23 AeroBeam has a 23,000-lb capacity and is ideal for standard-duty on-highway flatbeds and tankers. Hicks said particularly weight-sensitive customers can spec the optional P89 SLT (Super Light WeighT) air-disc brakes for an additional 62 pounds per axle in weight savings.

Mid-range offerings include the CBXAS23 at 23,000 pounds capacity weighing 492 pounds, and the CBXAS25 at 25,000 pounds capacity. It weighs 524 pounds. For the heavy-duty on/off-highway customer, the 555-pound CBXAS30 has a capacity of 30,000 pounds.

“Our commitment is to design and develop products that better serve our fleet customers with leading technology,” Hicks said. “The lightweight CBXA AeroBeam provides features that deliver measurable benefits for improved efficiency and superior performance for tank, platform, and specialty trailer applications."

Suspension Features

The lightweight cast steel trailing arm beam boasts durability, while providing low overall system weight. The integral shock absorber design improves ride performance, provides undercarriage clearance and protection from road debris.

To further improve suspension life, the pivot connection tension control bolt maintains proper clamp force eliminating the need to routinely re-torque the connection. The constant clamp force design prevents bushing and frame brackets from wearing out, avoiding premature tire wear.

The CBXA AeroBeam also features a 5.75-inch diameter axle that the company claims is 19% more rigid than competitive axles, greatly reducing axle deflection that can cause inner shoulder wear on some tires.

CBXA AeroBeam retains SAF-Holland's patented SwingAlign alignment adjustment system, allowing for fast and easy service without disassembly or replacement parts, company officials said.

Brake Options

The CBXA AeroBeam series is available with the optional P89 Series air disc brakes for the braking performance and easier maintenance, company officials said. Also available is the P89 Plus with its SAF Integral rotor/hub and premium sealed bearings. The P89 Plus comes with a seven-year warranty, while the P89 comes with a five-year warranty.

For customers preferring drum brakes, SC5 and SC7 brake packages are available as dressed drum brake options. "These are completely engineered with the SAF-Holland engineering team, so customers don't have to worry about compatibility," said Hicks.

Offered with frame bracket options for weld-on, weld-on with wing, bolt-on, stainless steel weld-on, and tapered top weld-on configurations to meet any trailer chassis design.

The CBXA AeroBeam will replace SAF-Holland's CBX product line, which is expected to be phased out over a one to two year period.