BWI Case Study

THE PROBLEM

BWI runs a fleet of 25 specialized high-cube trailers that are equipped with mechanical loading and unloading systems. These custom units are high and extremely heavy while loaded, which is why BWI used 17 1/2 tires versus the standard 22 1/2 inch tires. The smaller tires allowed the trailers to stay within legal height measurements but they had to add an extra set of tires to handle the weight. Unfortunately, due to the specific use and build of these tires, the brakes and tires would wear out rapidly.

In an effort to be proactive and avoid breakdowns that could potentially halt delivery sequences, BWI worked with a maintenance vendor to always replace all tires during each Preventative Maintenance (PM) cycle. However, they soon came to realize that the process was a waste of time, resources and money since the tires and brakes were not being used for the duration of their life cycle. In addition, their vendor required all trailers to be delivered to their own shop, keeping BWI’s equipment out of service for several days.



CURRENT STATUS…

  • BWI immediately experienced a 50 percent reduction in overall trailer maintenance cost.
  • Brakes and tires are scheduled for replacement during three-month PM interval.
  • Brakes and tires are being replaced at 90 percent of their useful life instead of 60 percent of their useful life.
  • Their brake and tire life has been extended by over 35 percent, and decreased downtime from multiple days to only three to four hours.

For more information download the case study below or scroll down.