Suspension is a crucial component of semi-trailers that connects the walk-through device on the chassis to the frame.The supporting, braking and the force driving the semi-trailers are all handled through the Ifor Williams suspension system.It could also lessen the effects of poor roads on vehicles, reducing shock absorption and help ensure security of the semi-trailer. In this article, we will present four kinds of trailer suspension that are most commonly used: Spring suspension, Airbag suspension, Bogie suspension and rigid suspension.
SPRING SUSPENSION (LEAF SPRING)
Spring suspension is also known as leaf spring.It is composed of U bolt, shackle, leaf spring etc.
Advantage:cheap,reliable and easily maintain.
Today, more than 80% of semi-trailers across Asia and Africa employ spring suspension.
Common trailer types that utilize spring suspension are: skeleton trailers, flatbed trailers, fuel tanker trailers, cement bulk trailers, low bed trailer, tipper trailer, etc.
AIRBAG SUSPENSION
The most obvious characteristic that airbag suspension has is airbag spring.
Advantage: Light weight, good stability
However, the cost of airbag suspension can be high.Now the majority of trailers that has airbag suspension can be utilized to transport precision instrument, tobacco and other hazardous chemical cargo.
Common trailer types that utilize airbag suspension like a flatbed trailer, aluminum tanker trailer, acid tanker trailer, etc.
BOGIE Suspension
Bogie suspension is a tandem Bogie suspension can be described as a tandem suspension which meets the requirements of heavy transportation services.
Advantage: Big payload, low maintenance cost
The road wheels that are fitted with this type of suspension are independent, and their unsprung mass is less in comparison to other suspension systems.
Common trailer types that utilize bogie suspension: tipper trailer, logging trailer, etc.
RIDIG SUSPENSION
An axle that is rigid is the alternative to an independent suspension.These kinds of suspensions are dependent on the wheels that are adjacent to the vehicle.In the case of a solid or rigid suspension, a beam or shaft is typically connected to with wheels both sides.Hence that if one wheel gets hit by an obstacle or pothole, the other wheel will also be affected.
Advantage: Large payload
The ride height is constant regardless of whether the semi-trailer’s loading or unloading.It is more suitable at low speeds, due to the insufficient damping.
Common trailer type with rigid suspension low bed trailer
