Hydraulic vs. Differential Steering: Which Is Better for Your Trackless Transport Vehicles？

In industrial production and logistics handling, trackless transport vehicles are invaluable tools for efficient workshop transport. Based on their steering method, they can be divided into two categories: hydraulic steering and differential steering. Today, we'll explore their characteristics and applicable scenarios to help you choose the right solution.

Characteristics of Hydraulic Steering

1. Structure and Principle

A hydraulic steering system mainly consists of a hydraulic pump, hydraulic cylinders, and hydraulic valves. During operation, the hydraulic pump provides power, using hydraulic pressure to drive the steering mechanism to change direction, thus turning the vehicle.

2. Handling Performance

Hydraulic steering is similar to traditional remote control, offering stable driving, but with a relatively large turning radius. In confined spaces, vehicles typically need to move forward or backward to complete a steering adjustment.

At Peisa industrial transport vehicles weighing 15 tons or more generally use hydraulic steering by default, unless the customer has specific requirements. Hydraulic systems maintain stable and precise steering control, even on uneven terrain.

3. Load Capacity

Hydraulic steering is more suitable for large or super-heavy-duty trackless flatcars, maintaining stable steering under heavy loads, reducing tire wear, and extending vehicle life.

4. Ease of Operation

Most hydraulic steering vehicles are equipped with remote control operation, making them quick to learn and requiring no complicated procedures for sensitive control.

Case Study:

A large steel plant uses a 20-ton hydraulically steering material flat car to transport heavy steel plates in the workshop. Given the relatively large workshop size, hydraulic steering was the primary choice, ensuring stable, safe, and efficient transport under high loads.

Characteristics of Differential Steering

1. Structure and Principle

Differential steering achieves steering through two independent drive wheels. When the vehicle turns, the inner wheel decelerates while the outer wheel accelerates, utilizing the speed difference to steer. It has a simple structure and does not rely on a hydraulic system.

2. Performance Characteristics

High Flexibility: Enables on-the-spot turning or small-radius turns.

Load Capacity: Suitable for small to medium-sized flatcars, generally handling loads under 15 tons easily. Overweight loads may affect stability.

Low Maintenance Costs: The simple structure allows for quick troubleshooting, minimizing losses due to equipment downtime.

3. Applicable Scenarios

Differential steering is ideal for scenarios requiring high maneuverability and limited transport space. For example, in warehouses, flatcars handling small racks need frequent direction changes; differential steering easily handles these situations, navigating complex industrial layouts with ease and allowing for 360-degree rotation.

Case Study:

An electronics parts factory uses 3-ton electric flat cars with differential steering to transport materials in the warehouse area, easily navigating between racks with simple operation and low maintenance costs.

Summary

Hydraulic Steering: Recommended when customers require high load capacity and stability. It ensures smooth operation and improves workpiece transport efficiency.

Differential Steering: More advantageous in confined workshop environments, offering flexible and frequent steering, including 360-degree rotation.

When selecting a trackless wheeled transfer vehicle, it is recommended to provide the manufacturer with detailed information about the workshop environment, workpiece weight, and transportation frequency. This allows them to recommend the most suitable model and steering method for your specific application.