RIGID AXLES AND HUBS

Over recent years, the innovative ECO Plus hub system for drum and disc brakes has had a major effect on running gear technology. Development of this third-generation, world-leading, patented hub system, is ECO Plus 3, suitable for axle loads up to 12 tonne.

A BPW rigid axle combined with an ECO Plus hub system, remains highly ranked in today’s commercial vehicle market. This durable arrangement offers high load capacity, whilst being competitively lightweight.

DID YOU KNOW?

The design of the BPW hub system is the result of over 110 years engineering experience. Technology used today follows axle construction techniques originally introduced over 70 years ago.

The ECO Plus hub system is specifically designed to withstand tough challenges during both on-road and off-road transport operations. We have achieved this by focussing on key areas; the stub axle, bearing selection, sealing arrangements and bearing adjustment. The result being a robust, reliable system is designed for long service life.

• Design features of ECO Plus include DIN ISO tapered roller bearings. This is an important contribution to the long service life of BPW rigid axles; the stepped bearing size allows the hub to be removed easily. The bearings can be readily inspected, are globally available and can be replaced easily and inexpensively if required, without having to fit a completely new hub.

• To ensure correct fitment, the hub is designed with an integrated torque limiting hub nut. This single threaded nut follows the Formula 1 principle with nut acting as a puller. It allows simple removal of the entire wheel and hub, including the brake drum and bearings. Brake servicing and maintenance times are therefore considerably reduced.

• The circumferential hub design, with open spokes, provides improved thermal management for the bearings and lubricant whilst the new grease seal offers optimum protection and performance.

• The ECO Plus hub system comes with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty for on-road applications.