When a Trailer Becomes a Leader

Live bottom trailers are changing the way bulk goods are transported and a Prince Edward Island (PEI) company is in the vanguard of those companies that have grasped the reality. Trout River Industries of Coleman, PEI is now implementing this technical concept into a product that responds to the current and anticipated needs of a new consumer niche.

Live bottom trailers

"Trout River is a strong company. The National Research Council Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP) assisted them through non-repayable Research and Development (R&D) contribution agreements with the technical research needed to ensure they could commercialize their trailers. This investment plus a repayable NRC-IRAP contribution enabled them sufficient equity to build two prototypes. Over 120 of the Trout River Live-Bottom trailers have been sold in the Maritimes, Ontario, Québec, the United States, Russia and Australia," said Alan Brown, Industrial Technology Advisor for NRC-IRAP. 

Trout River Industries manufactured its first live bottom trailer in 1999. With over 40 years of combined experience in the machinery building and truck repair business, owners Matthew Brown and Harvey Stewart have developed a live bottom trailer of unsurpassed quality and efficient design.

The final product emerged after extensive consultation with haulers who were seeking safe and versatile transport solutions. The Research and Development Team at Trout River responded to requirements of the haulers with an innovative and unique design which installed a vertically running bulkhead which allowed for the movement of the weight forward of the kingpin and consequently allowed for larger loads.

By contrast, other trailers have different spaces and cones in the front of the trailer, necessitating loading from further back in the trailer. As well, the driver would have to move into the live bottom trailer area from time to time to clean it out.

Users of the Trout River Trailer always point out the rapid unloading via an efficient belt/chain devise. A rounded tub permits a larger payload and lower centre of gravity for a smoother ride. In addition, a tight seal around the belt and tailgates prevents any loss of load. For additional strength and longevity, the belt is attached to the chain system and the chain links are bolted for easy maintenance and repair.

One of the most attractive features of the Trout River trailers is not just the superior design but also the ready availability of spare parts and quality of service maintenance.

"Trout River is a company that is focused on providing solutions to our clients through innovation and customer service," said Matthew Brown, owner of Trout River Industries.

With NRC's help, Trout River was able to develop unique equipment that meets the growing needs of the trucking industry.

Recommended links:

• Doing business with NRC
• NRC Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP)

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