Articulated vs. Rigid Dump Trucks: Which One is Best for Your Job Site?



Are you in the market for a dump truck for your job site? If the answer is yes, you have probably come across two main types, articulated and rigid. Yes, it might be confusing to determine which one is the better choice, but don’t worry, you are not alone. Both trucks are built for heavy hauling, but they are engineered for different conditions. However, we would say if you need versatility, ease of use, and the ability to handle rough terrain, an articulated dump truck (ADT) is the clear winner. Why? Here you go!

 

What’s the Difference?

Before we start the great debate between articulated dump trucks and rigid ones, let’s quickly go over the primary difference between the two.


  • Rigid Dump Trucks: These are built for high-speed hauling over smooth, well-maintained roads, and they are typically used in large-scale mining or quarry operations. In addition, they also have a rigid frame, which means they don’t bend in the middle, and they can turn if you use the front steering. However, they aren’t ideal for steep, muddy or uneven terrain, and this is a major downside.
  • Articulated Dump Trucks (ADTs): On the other hand, the ADTs have a myriad of applications, and they are designed for rough, off-road conditions. They feature a pivot joint between the cab and the dumb body, which allows better maneuverability. In addition, ADTs can handle steep inclines, tight spaces, and soft ground without getting stuck, and they are ideal for construction, logging and smaller mining operations.

 

Why Articulated Dump Trucks are the Best Choice?

Although you have the option of selecting between both RDTs and ADTs, there are several reasons why articulated dump trucks are a superior alternative. Some of these reasons are listed as follows:

 

1. They Can Go (Almost) Anywhere

If your job site has muddy, uneven, or steep terrain, an articulated dump truck is the way to go. Thanks to their pivoting joint and all-wheel drive, these trucks can navigate places where rigid dump trucks would get stuck or struggle.

 

Need to haul materials up a steep incline? No problem. Working on a construction site with tight turns? Easy. Whether it’s dirt, mud, snow, or rocky ground, an ADT will power through it.

 

2. Better Maneuverability in Tight Spaces

One of the biggest advantages of an articulated dump truck is how easy it is to steer. Because a hinge connects the front cab and rear dump body, the truck can bend in the middle, making it perfect for navigating tight job sites.

On the other hand, Rigid dump trucks need a lot more space to turn. If your worksite has narrow paths or sharp corners, an ADT will save you a ton of headaches.

 

3. More Stability on Uneven Ground

Ever seen a dump truck tip over? It’s not pretty. One of the biggest risks with rigid dump trucks is that they’re less stable on uneven terrain. Since they don’t bend, they rely on having a smooth, even surface to keep their balance.

 

Articulated dump trucks, however, adjust to the terrain. Their independent suspension and pivoting design help keep all wheels in contact with the ground, even on bumpy or sloped surfaces.

 

Trying to find top-quality articulated dump trucks for your construction job? Check out what Elvaan Equipment Solutions has to offer, and get a custom quote from them.

 

This content was originally published on: Elvaan Equipment Solutions

This has been republished with permission.

Original Source: https://elvaan.com/articulated-vs-rigid-dump-trucks-which-one-is-best-for-your-job-site/

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