BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — Eco Flaps recently completed an evaluation with Exa Corp. on the use of its aerodynamic splash guards on tanker trucks in an effort to illustrate the product’s significant fuel savings, the company said in a news release.
Eco Flaps is rapidly changing fleet performance throughout the trucking industry with its ecologically-sound splash guards, which are one of the most adaptable aerodynamic solutions on the market today and are SmartWay, CARB and GHG2 approved, according to Bren Marsell, vice president of sales.
“Historically, tankers have had limited options when it comes to aerodynamic devices,” Marshell said. “Our recent testing with Exa Corp. proves that Eco Flaps is a viable option for this segment of the trucking industry.”
Last April, Eco Flaps hired Exa Corp. to perform an aerodynamics and fuel economy analysis through computational fluid dynamics simulations (CFD).
The analysis simulated four different configurations in order to understand how the Eco Flaps splash guards performed when installed on a day cab tractor and tanker trailer.
The different configurations included a baseline with conventional mud flaps on the tractor, tanker trailer and fender; Eco Flaps splash guards on the tractor, trailer and fender; Eco Flaps installed on the traitor and trailer, but conventional mud flaps on the fender; and an equipment setup with no flaps used.
Marshell said the results showed a 2 percent improvement in drag at highway speeds when Eco Flaps were on the tractor and trailer, but conventional mud flaps remained on the fender. The use of Eco Flaps on the tractor, trailer and fenders indicated a 2.8 percent improvement in drag. The total fuel savings from the full swap out is estimated at 1.4 percent.
“This analysis from Exa Corp. shows that utilizing Eco Flaps on all sections of the tanker truck provides drivers with the greatest fuel savings,” Marshell said. “At these numbers, drivers can achieve ROI within just three months.”
In addition to fuel savings and reduced maintenance, the use of Eco Flaps greatly reduce splash and spray from inclement weather and increase safety on the road, MArashell said, adding that fleets can purchase Eco Flaps from all major truck and trailer manufacturers through Eco Flaps’ distribution network. Eco Flaps are available in multiple sizes ranging from 18” x 24” to 24” x 36” to meet each truck’s dimensions and are backed by a full two-year warranty. They are also available in custom colors with custom graphics.
For more information about Eco Flaps, visit www.ecoflaps.com.
Marshell said Eco Flaps provide fleets with fuel savings, increased durability for enhanced performance, increased safety and guaranteed quality with their unique, functional design.
Their molded shape and sturdy construction provide greater efficiency, durability, and a reduction in corrosion against weather elements and extreme temperatures, he said.
For more information visit www.ecoflaps.com.
Exa Corp.’s visualization and simulation software helps designers and engineers produce better vehicles and equipment. As a design evolves, Marsheall said Exa accurately predicts the performance of that design while providing actionable insight to optimize the performance of the product.
For more information about Exa Corp. visit www.exa.com.
The Trucker News Staff produces engaging content for not only TheTrucker.com, but also The Trucker Newspaper, which has been serving the trucking industry for more than 30 years. With a focus on drivers, the Trucker News Staff aims to provide relevant, objective content pertaining to the trucking segment of the transportation industry. The Trucker News Staff is based in Little Rock, Arkansas.
