A comparative analysis of vehicles used for road transportation of sugarcane

The Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations (BSES) and Queensland Transport conducted a joint survey throughout Queensland of 135 sugarcane haulout vehicles, representing the diversity of transport equipment used by the Australian sugar industry. It was conducted for two reasons: data were needed on the cane haulout fleet (which has changed significantly in the past ] 0 years); an accurate database was needed to ensure that any changes to legislation would not adversely impact on the current haulout nee!. Each haulout's mass (loaded and unloaded), physical dimensions, tyre specifications, etc. were recorded. Parameters governing the manufacture of haul outs are set by Queensland Transport, i.e., the gross mass, dimensions, lights, braking requirements, etc. The major item affecting the industry is the gross mass, which is dependent on the number of axles and impact on pavement wear and field compaction. Thus, it will be necessary to reduce the tare if payloads are to be increased. From the data, load transport efficiencies were assessed, which can be used in the design of future haulouts and as an aid to buyers in choosing the type of vehicle that is best suited for their particular needs.