Channel iron strength

[Hooked_on_HP]

I am going to build a 5'x8' tandem axle dump trailer. Part of the frame is going to be 3x1.5x3/16 channel. Is channel strength the same whether it is used flat or on edge?
Bill

 

[whistlepig]

I am going to build a 5'x8' tandem axle dump trailer. Part of the frame is going to be 3x1.5x3/16 channel. Is channel strength the same whether it is used flat or on edge?
Bill

The channel strength won't be the same. The load bearing against the 1.5" side is stronger. For a 5'x8' trailer I wouldn't think it would matter. 3x1.5x3/16 will be more than enough no matter what direction it is turned.

 

[towmotor]

Put it on edge.

 

[Steve C]

I am going to build a 5'x8' tandem axle dump trailer. Part of the frame is going to be 3x1.5x3/16 channel. Is channel strength the same whether it is used flat or on edge?
Bill

no, it is much stronger on edge. But if you are going to need tandem axle's you will need to use something larger to get the capacity of 2 3500 lb. axels

 

[California]

While everyone is here - - What is the minimum size channel to buy for lightweight forks?

I made a set of light strap-on forks (see photo in this thread) that match my lifting capacity. Now I want to make a couple more that are longer. Occasionally I will use all four to carry brush and prunings to the burn pile.

Recommendation? The loader capacity at the pins is around 700-800 lbs, maybe 500 lbs safe carrying weight on a pallet, so I don't need HD here.

What size channel should I buy?

 

[Hooked_on_HP]

It is going to have 2- 2000lbs axles with springs. I will probably never put over a ton in it. The reason for the tandem is so I can load the trailer unhooked, back up to it ,raise the TPH which has a ball mounted on it and drive to where I want to dump. Dump the load drive back to the pile ,lower the TPH to unhook and reload and repeat as necessary. I also figured the tandem would spread the weight out and would cause fewer ruts.
Bill

 

[JB4310]

This is off road use only? just curious.

Most trailers utilize channel, for that matter anything with a frame, from a truck to older cars of course use channel for frame. Never seen one with the channel flat, except maybe a cross member.

Channel is pretty tough stuff even laying flat but has more strength standing on edge, think of a 2x4 (almost the same size) easy to see what the stronger position would be.

It's a dimensional thing, whether a channel, an angle, an I-beam or even a wood beam, which ever has the greater dimension, that's the side you want in vertical profile.

You're not wasting any time finding a project for that new metal working tool you got

JB.

 

[Hooked_on_HP]

It will be 99% off road use(I have 3 other trailers)but you never know. I was looking at the Country Mfg. Country Manufacturing, Inc. Off road wagons and trailers for tractors and ATV. but didn't like the way they had a single pivot on the tandem or the fact that is was off road only. It is also just an excuse to build somthing usefull that will keep me in the shop.
Bill

 

[jmc]

The reason for the tandem is so I can load the trailer unhooked, back up to it ,raise the TPH which has a ball mounted on it and drive to where I want to dump. Dump the load drive back to the pile ,lower the TPH to unhook and reload and repeat as necessary. Bill

Bill,

Don't pull a dump trailer with a 3PH. When you raise the bed and the load shifts to behind the rear axle, there is nothing keeping your 3PH from lifting.

John

 

[Hooked_on_HP]

John you just screwed up my plan.Thank you. I hadn't thought about that. I will have to give this a little more thought.With the tandem set to the rear I wonder it it will raise the tongue?
Bill