Utility Trailer Manufacturing Co. has made the Trident composite steel shell brake drum from Accuride standard on all Utility trailer models.
The Trident brake drums reduce weight by 24 pounds per wheel end, totaling 96 pounds for a dual axle trailer, according to the manufacturer. This makes them lighter than standard cast iron drums, enabling fleets to maximize payloads and lower costs.
Utility made the Trident drum standard on all its flatbed models in 2020, and customers have experienced superior performance since, the company noted. Five years later, Utility is providing reefer and dry van customers to take advantage of the weight savings. All 2026 model Utility reefers, dry vans and flatbeds will now come with the Trident as a base specification.
“Our continuous testing programs, both in the field and in the lab, have proven the Trident to be the highest quality drums on the market,” Mark Glasgow, chief of sales for Utility, said. “It comes as no surprise that the Trident drum has been an overwhelming success on our flatbeds, and as an option on our reefers and dry vans. While air disc brakes are the gold standard when it comes to trailer braking, steel shell drums, and specifically the Trident drum, provide an excellent alternative without the added cost.”
Accuride Vice President of Sales – Trailer & Aftermarket Scott Neill likewise lauded the upgrade.
“Utility has been an industry leader for 110 years,” Neill said. “By including Trident drum as standard equipment on all models, they continue to demonstrate their commitment to advanced braking systems and other safety features in their trailers.”