Operational performance of b-double vehicles with and without hub reduction in eucalyptus transportation in southern Brazil

Abstract

Forest road transport in Brazil faces challenges related to vehicle diversity and varying road conditions, with different proportions of roads having asphalt surfacing. In this context, the appropriate choice of vehicle type is decisive for operational performance and logistics costs. This study aimed to evaluate the operational performance of two B-double vehicle models in forest road transport under different road-surface conditions with asphalt surfacing. This research was based on telemetry data provided by a logistics company in the state of Paraná. Two types of Freight Vehicle Combinations (FVCs) were analyzed: heavy bogie (with hub reduction) and light bogie (without hub reduction), across four scenarios of roads with asphalt surfacing: C₁ (up to 25%), C₂ (25–50%), C₃ (50–75%), and C₄ (>75%). The evaluated variables included traveled distance, travel time, average speed, net load transported, and fuel consumption, from which indicators of operational efficiency, energy yield, and productive capacity were determined. Statistical analyses included univariate and multivariate tests (MANOVA and discriminant analysis). The results indicated significant differences between vehicle types and asphalt surfacing scenarios. The heavy bogie showed lower fuel consumption (8–12% less) and higher energy yield on routes with a lower proportion of asphalt surfacing, while the light bogie showed better performance on roads with a higher proportion of asphalt surfacing, with shorter travel time and higher average speed. The multivariate analysis confirmed that the proportion of asphalt surfacing is the main factor influencing average speed and energy efficiency. It is concluded that B-double vehicles with heavy bogies are more suitable for routes with low asphalt surfacing, while those with light bogies are more appropriate for predominantly asphalt-surfaced highways.

Keywords: Road forestry transport, Telemetry, Vehicle combinations, Asphalt pavement