The exhibitor showing the largest number of truck trailers at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville was the 17th largest builder (in unit volume). MAC Trailer Manufacturing of Alliance, Ohio, showed ten new trailers and one used trailer. Two of the trailers were pneumatic bulkers, a market totally new to MAC. Up to now, the 16-year-old company has concentrated on dump trailers, flatbeds, and transfer trailers.
Before leaping into the pneumatic tank trailer market, owner Michael A Conny and executive VP Jim Maiorana, researched their customers here and in Canada, other potential buyers, and even European designs and manufacturing methods. The result is an “international look”, especially in the enclosed strut areas, full aluminum frame, and enclosed areas between cones. These enhance the aerodynamics for better fuel mileage, as well as structural integrity, exterior cleanability and dirt shedding.
Among safety considerations are the enclosed ladder with double handrail, anti-skid catwalk with toe rails, and optional folding handrail on top. The hot air pipe is tucked under the frame to protect from accidental burns.
Tank construction is smooth aluminum on the outside ranging from .250 on the lower portion to .118 uppers plus internal bar-type bracing and hopper apex reinforcing plates. Hoppers are equipped with Solimar cones and aerators and with Knappco 20" full-opening cast aluminum manhole covers.
The upper coupler is galvanized to prevent corrosion and is adjustable, with 18" and 24" reversible pin settings. The Hendrickson Intraax suspension has galvanized hangers. Equipped with eight aluminum wheels and hubs, Centrifuse drums and Jost Magnum landing gear, scale weight of the 1050 cu. ft. pneumatic bulker on exhibit was 8,640 lb.
