ESSENTIAL COMPONENTS OF TRAILER SUSPENSION SYSTEMS

30 Nov, 2024

A trailer suspension system is essential for secure and effective transportation, particularly in managing substantial weights across irregular surfaces. It mitigates shocks, guarantees stability, and uniformly distributes the trailer’s weight, thus extending the trailer’s lifespan and enhancing driving comfort. In this guide, Thaco Trailers will explore the key components of trailer suspension systems and their role in optimizing performance and safety.

1. What is the trailer suspension system?

To control the distribution of weight, dampen the effects of road shocks, and keep the vehicle in the correct alignment, a complex network of parts is known as the trailer suspension system. These parts attach the wheels to the trailer body. An essential function it performs is to keep the cargo in the trailer steady while in transit, cushioning it from bumps in the road and protecting the towing vehicle and trailer from unnecessary damage. When transporting large loads over long distances, the suspension system plays a crucial role in assuring the safety of the cargo and the quality of the trip.

What is the trailer suspension system?

2. Components of Semi-Trailer Suspension Systems

Semi-trailers are large and designed for heavier loads, which means they require more advanced suspension systems. Consequently, semi-trailer suspension parts are specifically engineered to handle extended hauls and the heavy-duty requirements of the freight industry.

2.1 Springs

Semi-trailers can either use leaf springs for durable, long-lasting support or air springs for greater ride comfort and load variability. Air springs provide the ability to adjust based on the load, offering more stability and reducing the stress on the trailer during transit.

Components of Semi-Trailer Suspension Systems

2.2 Rubbers Suspensions

Rubber springs are available in a range of sizes and designs allowing for relatively high levels of deflections for shock absorption, as rubber spring suspension can hold considerably more weight, compared to other spring materials.

2.3 Torsion axle suspension

Torsion axles are made up of thick rubber cords concealed in the axle’s tubing. As each wheel moves up and down, the rubber cords compress offering an even wheel suspension for a smooth ride. Each wheel acts independently, moving and absorbing shocks.

2.4 Air suspension

Air suspension refers to the suspension using air shock absorbers, mainly through the air pump to adjust the air volume and pressure of the air shock absorber, which can change the hardness and elastic coefficient of the air shock absorber. By adjusting the amount of air pumped in, the stroke and length of the air shock absorber can be adjusted, and the chassis can be raised or lowered. The compressibility characteristics of air means that airbags have close to ideal dynamic elastic characteristics, making them extremely capable for heavy-duty suspension systems and providing exceptionally smooth rides. Air suspension mechanisms also allow a vehicle to flexibly adjust its suspension systems according to its load-bearing needs, and can raise or lower the vehicle to suitable heights for various purposes.

Air suspension

2.5 Bushings

In semi-trailers, bushings provide the same function that they do in smaller trailers, which is to reduce friction and make it possible for suspension components to move smoothly with one another. On the other hand, since semi-trailer bushings are engineered to resist more wear and tear due to the larger weights, they are meant to be more robust.

2.6 U-Bolts

To fasten the suspension system to the axle and ensure that all components stay in place while in transport, U-bolts are an essential and indispensable component. They provide the clamping force that is required to maintain the attachment of leaf springs or other suspension components to the axles in a secure manner.

4. Thaco Trailers Provides High-Quality Trailer Suspension Parts Based on Your Needs

Thaco Trailers, a division of THACO INDUSTRIES, produces semi-trailers and semi-trailer suspension components using innovative technology and a rigorous manufacturing process including fabrication, welding, painting, assembly, and inspection. Products comply with export criteria for the United States, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Thailand, and others. Featuring an extensive array of semi-trailer components, including landing gear, main frame, slider frame, tire and wheel, wire harness and light, leaf spring, suspension elements, air tank, mud flaps, twist lock, front bolster, real bolster, etc. Thaco Trailers guarantees superior performance customized to your particular transportation requirements. Our products are engineered for longevity and dependability, optimizing the performance of your trailer or semi-trailer, regardless of the weight or distance.

trailer suspension parts

Let Thaco Trailers help you find the perfect solution for your transportation needs. Our team of experts is ready to answer your questions and provide valuable advice.

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