A typical sand spreader is permanently mounted on each side of the vehicle and consists of a sand container and a delivery system. It is manually operated by the driver and feeds sand in front of the drive wheels to increase traction. Some systems also include a heater.
Sand spreaders
Pros
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- Permanently mounted and ready for use
- Activated by switch – driver stays in cab
- Reduces breaking distance
- Sand distribution is also effective for the trailer
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Cons
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- Effectiveness and reliability is depending on the sand quality
- Bulky and heavy (sand weight)
- Requires regular sand refill (manual)
- The sand can freeze then requires heating to work
- Limited operating distance – approx. 1.5 km (1 mile)
- Does not work in reverse
- Ineffective when sand container is empty
- Environmental impact – not permitted in all countries
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Sand spreaders can be fitted to:
Light Commercial Trucks
Heavy Commercial Trucks
Ambulance
Fire and Rescue
School Buses & Coaches
Yard Tractor
Snow and Ice Removal
Utility Trucks
Compare with other systems
| Type of vehicle | Onspot | Conventional snow chains | Sand spreader | Textile tyre socks | 4x4 |
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| Light Commercial Trucks |  |
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| Heavy Commercial Trucks | |
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| Ambulances | |
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| Fire and Rescue | |
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| School Buses and Coaches | |
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| Yard Tractors | |
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| Snow and Ice Removal | |
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| Utility Trucks | |
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Maintenance
Sand container must be refilled approx. every mile.