Van Trailers
Regardless of the trailer OEM, the applications of extrusions are largely the same. The variances come by refrigerated vs dry van, and by specific payload because trailer OEMs will build custom trailers as per the order specification.
Source: US Trailer Parts & Supply, Inc.
Common Extrusion Applications in Dry Van & Refrigerated Trailers
- Front corner posts
- Front impact plate
- Roof bows
- Vertical posts supporting the walls (sheet & post)
- Flooring (refrigerated)
- Side wear band
- Under floor cross-members
- Landing gear
- Doors
- Hinges
- Ramp
In refrigerated vans, or "reefers," the cargo is food, or electronics. The construction materials of the trailer cannot absorb moisture, or rust or create mold and mildew. Extrusions don't rust, nor do they require coatings or treatments. This helps the trailer look good for many years, with minimal maintenance, which is imperative for the trailer life of 15 years or more. Trailer engineers take advantage of the efficiency of extrusion designing a multitude of shapes, geometry that helps it wrap both sides of a corner, and with localized thick walls for required strength and stiffness. Plus, the 5000 and 6000 aluminum alloy series are easy to weld, easy to drill and fasten, making them compatible with metal or composite trailer walls, floors and frame rails.
Within the trailer, besides the wall structural members, the floor, the wear band, there are extrusions around the door frame, and down the ceiling lighting. Another application are the trailer decking and tie downs to secure the cargo produced by Ancra Cargo. In the image, extrusions make up the cross members, the wall connector, and the vertical channel in the wall.