France: In Cat 3 more load capacity on a pendle axle
French legislation divides abnormal transport into three categories.
The law distinguishes three kinds of axles: beam axles, split axles and pendle axles. To determine the maximum gross weight, beam axles and split axles (with independent suspension) are treated the same. An exception is made for pendle axles. In Category 3 they may be allowed higher axle weights than beam axles and axles with independent suspension. This depends on the number of axle lines, the distance between the axles and whether single or double mounted tyres are fitted. Vehicles fall under Category 3 as soon as the laden vehicle is longer than 25 metres, wider than 4 metres or has a total weight of more than 72t.
The Nooteboom EURO-PX low-loader is the result of technical development over many years. The higher load capacity that is now permitted in Germany for the 2-axle Nooteboom Euro-PX shows that innovation has practical benefits too. Three important European countries – the Netherlands, Germany and France – recognise the advantages of pendle axles over independent suspension. The result: up to 3 tonnes more load capacity per axle line.
