Trailer suspension specialist Hendrickson says its range of integrated air suspension systems can help fleets improve uptime, reduce maintenance costs and extend trailer life.
The company’s portfolio includes the INTRAAX, VANTRAAX and ULTRAA-K systems, which are designed to suit a variety of trailer applications ranging from platform and tanker work through to refrigerated and dry van operations.
According to Hendrickson, air suspension systems are now widely used across the trailer market because they help reduce shock and vibration transferred from the road to the trailer and its freight.
The company said this can reduce wear and tear, improve ride quality and contribute to longer trailer life and stronger resale values.
At the centre of the range is the INTRAAX system, which combines suspension, axle and brake components into a single integrated package.
Hendrickson said the system was developed to provide smoother ride control, braking performance and durability while helping fleets manage maintenance requirements and overall trailer weight.
Key features include its large-diameter axle technology, which is designed to increase stiffness and payload potential while also supporting tyre life and fuel economy.
The company also points to maintenance-friendly features such as QUIK-ALIGN axle adjustment and TRI-FUNCTIONAL bushings, which are intended to reduce service requirements and keep trailers on the road longer.
For dry freight and refrigerated trailer applications, Hendrickson offers the VANTRAAX system. Built around the INTRAAX suspension platform, it incorporates the company’s K2 slider box design and diagonal K-bracing to deliver a combination of strength and reduced weight.
Hendrickson said the system is engineered to resist racking and harsh loading conditions while supporting higher payloads. The company also claims its ride and alignment characteristics can help reduce irregular tyre wear and rolling resistance, potentially improving fuel efficiency.
Driver usability has also been considered, with the inclusion of the QUIK-DRAW pneumatic pin-pull mechanism designed to make slider repositioning easier.
At the lighter end of the range is the ULTRAA-K tandem air slider, aimed at fleets seeking to maximise payload and operating efficiency.
The system features a reinforced main rail, overlapping frame brackets and diagonal K-bracing, while Hendrickson says its weight-optimised design can reduce overall suspension weight by up to almost 100 pounds compared with typical tandem air sliders without compromising strength.
ULTRAA-K is also equipped with the company’s ZMD shockless ride technology, which removes the need for conventional shock absorbers, helping to reduce maintenance requirements. Other service-focused features include easier air spring access and protected mounting points for key suspension components.
Hendrickson said the suspension systems can also be paired with additional technologies including tyre pressure control systems and wheel-end packages to further improve reliability and lower total operating costs.