Dump trucks have been making our lives easier since the moment they were invented. Their study open-box bed allows for the transportation of loose material, like gravel, limestone, and other types of construction and demolition waste.
History of Dump Trucks
It’s widely believed that the first dump trucks originated in the late 19th century and were used as dust carts (they’ve now turned into garbage trucks). At the time, a tipping mechanism allowed the cart—which was pulled by a horse—to tip backward.
Design of the Tandem Axle
In 1926, Chicago designers Magnus Hendrickson and sons Robert and George designed the world’s first tandem truck by fashioning a metal beam that was connected to the front and rear axles. This allowed the weight to be distributed evenly between the axles. The International Harvester Company was granted exclusive rights to this tandem suspension and held this until 1948. Since then, the design of tandem axle trucks has been open to the public for use.
What is a Tandem Dump Truck?
A tandem dump truck has one axle in the front and a double axle in the back. Because there are two wheels placed on each side of the rear axle of the truck, the weight being carried in the bed of the truck is able to be evenly distributed. With the weight distributed between the tandem axles, the truck can carry more weight. This is why you’ll see many dump trucks, fuel and water trucks, fire trucks, and others are usually tandem trucks.
Dump Truck Services
At Keystone, our modern fleet of dump trucks includes tandem axle dump trucks so we’re ready to haul recycled concrete, black dirt, gravel, sand, and other loose aggregates that may be needed during the construction process. Additionally, our reliable GPS tracking system in every truck helps our drivers adapt to any last-minute changes in schedule and/or location. Thanks to this system, our dispatchers are able to let our customers know a realistic time our drivers should be expected at the job site.
Safety on the Construction Site
Our entire team undergoes ongoing safety training and are up-to-date with the latest in safety standards. The most important part of our job is to keep everyone involved safe and this is why we take safety on the job site so seriously. We adhere to all state and federal regulations to make sure the job gets done correctly the first time.
Multi-Axle Dump Trucks
Depending on the job, we may bring one of the multi-axle dump trucks to complete the work.
Tri-Axle Dump Trucks
Operation costs can be kept lower by using tri-axle dump trucks, thanks to the fact that they’re much more lightweight than a tandem. However, that means that they can’t haul the type of weight a dual axle can. These trucks are often ideal for hauling smaller loads over shorter distances. Additionally, many tri-axle dump trucks have a fourth lift axle that the operator can lower or raise as needed. The fourth axle can help increase capacity, but may need to be raised to protect tires from wear and tear, plus increase gas mileage.
Quad-Axle Dump Trucks
For hauling heavier loads longer than a tri-axle, a quad-axle dump truck is another option. On average, a quad-axle dump truck can haul around 17 tons of payload at once. When we need to haul a larger load over Interstates, a quad can be ideal. The drawback is their size and maneuverability. These trucks don’t do well on the job site or over rough terrain.
Des Moines Area Dump Truck Services
When you need dirt, gravel, sand or any other loose construction materials hauled, contact us. We have a full fleet of capable dump trucks and a professional team of drivers at your service in the Des Moines and surrounding area.