SGD Guidelines

Assess risks when descending steep grades with loaded log hauling trucks

The SGD Guidelines (Steep Grade Descent Guidelines) calculator was developed to assist forestry operations planners in conducting risk assessments for descending steep grades with loaded log hauling truck configurations. The tool estimates the braking system temperature based on the road parameters and recommends the maximum payload and descent speed for the specified descent. The stopping capability of a truck configuration is strongly influenced by brake temperature due to the braking “fade” that occurs at elevated brake temperatures.