Some Questions to Ask About a Truck Mounted Attenuator
Posted on: 9 May 2016
A truck mounted attenuator works as a barrier between oncoming traffic and a work crew, and also alerts that oncoming traffic to their presence, to the need to change speed, to a slippery surface, and so on. These attenuators can be a must-have for any crew working by the side of the road and especially for those working in the road, whether it's paving or filling in potholes or anything else; the attenuator can absorb the impact of a collision with an oncoming vehicle and literally save lives. Note a few questions to ask about a truck mounted attenuator if you have a construction or repair crew and are considering investing in one.
1. Always ask the weight or load of impact it can safely manage
A truck mounted attenuator will usually have a maximum weight or load it can safely manage or absorb before being pushed forward and out of place. You need to understand this maximum capacity because some are not meant to be used on the highway, where you might encounter fully loaded tractor trailers traveling at high speeds. Some are not even going to manage the impact of a smaller vehicle traveling at high speeds. If your crew will be working on the highway or anyplace where oversized vehicles such as tractor trailers might be encountered, you need to ensure you invest in an attenuator that can manage this type of potential impact.
2. Note its weight and needed towing capacity
You need to know the necessary towing capacity for an attenuator so you know your truck can easily haul it. It's also good to know the needed towing capacity because you might want to hitch the attenuator to a snow plow for use during winter months, or to various other trucks and vehicles you have for different jobsites and applications. As with anything you haul behind you, check the needed towing capacity and be sure your trucks and vehicles can manage this weight and resistance.
3. Note its safe traveling speed
For towing the attenuator, you need to know its safe traveling speed. If you're going to be using it on the freeway, you'll need to maintain a minimum freeway speed even when pulling an attenuator. Check the safe traveling speed to ensure it can be towed safely and easily on the freeway, as some lightweight attenuators with smaller wheels may not be made for higher traveling speeds.
For more information, contact companies like A1 Roadlines Pty. Ltd.
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