Engineers at the BelAZ plant have successfully completed factory tests of the new model of the BELAZ-54011 airfield tractor. The vehicle is designed to work with passenger aircraft weighing from 50 to 150 tons. This range includes popular airliners such as the Airbus A320, A220, and Boeing 737.
The designers paid special attention to the power plant and off-road performance. The tractor is equipped with a Euro-3 environmental class engine with a nominal power of 115 kW. The maximum speed without load reaches 30 km/h, and when towing an aircraft, it is limited to 12 km/h. For reliable grip on the road, a removable ballast weighing from 12 to 18 tons is provided. This allows the wheels to confidently hold the road on dry, wet, and even icy surfaces.
One of the main features of the new product is the wheel control system. The operator can select one of four steering modes. Control is available only with the front or only with the rear wheels, synchronous rotation of all axles, and the so-called crab walk. This scheme provides high maneuverability in tight hangars and helps to accurately dock the tractor with the aircraft.
The interior space of the cabin has been adapted for long-term operation. The engineers installed a pneumatic adjustable seat, a climate control system, and improved sound insulation. Four video cameras are provided for viewing the work area around the vehicle, and the lighting is made with LEDs.
