Detachable truck body systems : the most resistant materials
The industries which use detachable truck body systems are all different, yet most of them are looking for the same thing: durability. Construction, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical work all require vehicles with storage that will not just accommodate their equipment, but do so in a way that keeps it safe, secure and organized. The job sites can also put wear and tear on a truck body, so those who do invest in one, want it to last as long as possible at the highest level of service.Detachable truck body systems come in different materials, each with their own level of resistance to the environment and operational durability, as well as a number of other qualities which can influence decision making.
1. Steel
Steel has been the traditional choice for detachable truck bodies, much like it used to be the material of choice for cars. However, due to its relative weight, it has become a less popular option, especially with increasing fuel prices. Despite the obvious weight issue, steel still remains a major contender in the market, mostly due to its durability. Steel is an extremely resistant material, and it takes a lot of force to damage or break it, making it a good option for those requiring a heavy-duty truck body. Steel is also relatively inexpensive to patch or repair for those who find that they might end up getting it damaged over the years.
2. Aluminum
Aluminum is a material that is known for its light weight yet durable nature. This is very desirable in a truck body since added weight means less miles per tank of fuel, and in industries where there is a lot of driving, this can add up to significant savings. It’s also a very clean material and comparably environmentally friendly, especially as it can be easily recycled at the end of its life. However, relatively few would recommend purchasing detachable truck body systems made solely of aluminum. There are high-usage areas like handles, locks, hinges, and doors that are often instead made of steel, even if the majority of the body is aluminum. This is also true for the frame if the use of the vehicle and body is intended for heavy industries like mining or rail. That’s because at the end of the day, it does not have the durability of steel, even if it is more resistant to corrosion.
3. Fiberglass
Fiberglass is currently the “darling” of the truck body industry as it offers incredible strength and durability at its weight, even more so than aluminum. It is extremely resistant to corrosion and while it might not have the “brute” strength of steel, it has a certain degree of flexibility which allows it to take a lot of pressure before denting or cracking. If there is any damage on a fiberglass truck body, it can be restore it to its original condition. Industries that carry a lot of equipment, especially for longer distances, especially value fiberglass options as they allow them to pack more weight without having to increase the size of the chassis. Those that want something very heavy duty and are expecting many drops, hits, and accidents, might be better suited to a steel body, though many would contest and say that fiberglass is just as good.
Before buying a detachable truck body, it’s worth evaluating how you will be using it and what your industrial needs are. This might all depend on the nature of your industry, how many miles you drive in a week, or even the climate you are giving service in. Also be sure to compare specific designs in each material as you might find your own pros and cons when faced with the physical models.
