Explore the difference between semi-trailer and full trailer in depth, reveal the differences between the two types of vehicles
Publish Time: 2024-11-15
In the field of road transportation, semi-trailers and full trailers are two important means of transportation, each playing an indispensable role. Although they all belong to the trailer category, there are significant differences in structure, function, safety, regulatory requirements, and application scenarios. TND will take you to explore the differences between these two models in depth and reveal their respective features and advantages.1. What is a semi-trailer?To put it simply, a semi-trailer that needs to bear part of the weight of the trailer is called a semi-trailer.
For example, the picture above shows a semi-trailer. The wheels of the trailer are at the rear and the front is resting on the trailer. The trailer needs to bear part of the trailer's weight. The most common thing we see every day is the semi-trailer.
The advantages of semi-trailers are high stability, ability to drive on high speeds, and large loading capacity. In particular, some large goods can only be pulled by semi-trailers, and other trailers are not long enough.The disadvantage of the semi-trailer is that the turning radius is too large, because the distance between the front of the vehicle and the trailer wheels is too long, and the requirements for road conditions are relatively high.2. What is a full trailer?A full trailer means that the trailer has wheels on the front and rear, and its weight is only borne by itself, and the trailer only needs to pull it and run.
For example, in the truck pictured above, the carriage it tows behind is a full trailer.
The tractor in the picture above is also a standard full trailer, because the weight of the entire truck of bricks behind it is borne by the trailer itself, and the four-wheel tractor only needs to pull the carriage.The advantage of a full trailer is that it is more flexible than a semi-trailer and has a smaller turning radius.The disadvantages are that it requires higher driving skills, the trailer has poor stability and cannot drive on high speeds.Analyze the core differences between semi-trailers and full trailers
1. Structural differencesThe front of the semi-trailer is usually combined with the trailer to form a complete body. Its structural feature is that part of the weight of the semi-trailer is transmitted to the ground through the supporting legs of the tractor, while the other part of the weight is transmitted to the ground through the tires of the semi-trailer. This structure makes the semi-trailer have better stability and controllability during driving.In contrast, a full trailer is mounted as a whole on the rear of the trailer. The full trailer itself has the ability to stand independently, all its weight is borne by itself, and it is connected to the tractor through a hook. The tractor only provides the necessary pulling power and does not bear the load carried by the trailer. The structure of a full trailer is relatively simple, but because its weight is completely borne by itself, it has higher requirements on tires and suspension systems.2. Load-bearing capacity and connection methodsIn terms of load-bearing capacity, the total weight of a full trailer often exceeds that of a semi-trailer due to its overall mounting. The weight limit of a full trailer mainly depends on its own structural design and the load-bearing capacity of the tires. The weight limit for semi-trailers is relatively low, and the combined weight of the tractor and trailer is mainly calculated. This gives semi-trailers greater advantages in long-distance and heavy-duty transportation.In terms of connection method, the semi-trailer is connected to the trailer through a towing hook or rod. This connection method allows the semi-trailer to flexibly follow the tractor while ensuring driving stability and safety. A full trailer is connected to the trailer through its suspension system. This connection method is relatively simple, but the stability of the full trailer is relatively poor during high-speed driving and emergency braking.3. Security considerationsFrom a safety perspective, semi-trailers are generally viewed as a safer option than full trailers due to their more even weight distribution and ability to operate independently in the event of a tractor failure. The semi-trailer has a low center of gravity and good stability, and can avoid danger through the control of the tractor in an emergency.When there is a problem with the tractor, there is a risk of the trailer losing stability and overturning. Since the weight of the full trailer is entirely borne by itself and the connection method is relatively simple, the stability of the full trailer is relatively poor during high-speed driving and emergency braking, and accidents such as rollover are prone to occur.4. Legal requirements and driving requirementsIn most countries, driving a semi-trailer requires a specific driver's license and training. This is because the structure of a semi-trailer is complex, difficult to control, and requires high skills and experience from the driver. At the same time, weight limits and safety standards for semi-trailers are also more stringent to ensure their safety and stability during driving.In contrast, driving a full trailer does not require this. The structure of a full trailer is relatively simple and difficult to operate, so it does not require a specific driver's license or training. However, this does not mean that the safety of a full trailer can be ignored. In practical applications, full trailers still need to comply with relevant traffic regulations and safety standards to ensure safety and stability during driving.5. Application Scenarios and Market DemandSemi-trailers are particularly suitable for long-distance transportation and heavy-duty transportation due to their large load capacity, good stability, and strong maneuverability. It has a wide range of application scenarios in logistics, transportation, construction and other industries. With the development of the economy and the increase in logistics demand, the market demand for semi-trailers continues to grow and has become an important force in the field of road transportation.Full trailers are more commonly used for transportation in docks, factories, ports and other areas. Due to its simple structure, convenient operation, and large loading capacity, full trailers are highly efficient and economical in short-distance transportation and cargo transfer. In some specific application scenarios, such as the handling and transportation of large equipment, full trailers also play an irreplaceable role.6. ConclusionThere are significant differences between semi-trailers and full trailers in terms of structure, function, safety, regulatory requirements and application scenarios. Each of these two models has its own characteristics and advantages and is suitable for different transportation needs and application scenarios. In practical applications, we need to select appropriate models based on specific transportation needs and conditions to ensure transportation safety and efficiency. At the same time, we also need to continue to pay attention to and study the development trends and technological innovations of these two types of vehicles to promote continued development and progress in the field of road transportation.About TND
TND Axle is a national high-tech group company specializing in the R&D, design and manufacturing of heavy vehicle parts such as trailers and semi-trailers. It has obtained multiple international quality standard certifications such as IATF 16949:2016. The main products include: American-made axles, German-made axles, air suspension, bogie suspension, mechanical suspension and other trailer parts. The annual output is about 100,000 sets of axle series and 20,000 sets of suspension series. TND has innovated and improved on the basis of military technology, creating a new era of thickened axles formed by hot extrusion of seamless steel pipes. This advanced technology can greatly improve the strength, stiffness and fatigue life of the axle beam, and reduce the risk of fatigue fracture of the axle. We have our own patented thermoforming machines and other advanced equipment, including: fatigue testing machines, ultrasonic flaw detectors, Brinell hardness testers, thickness gauges, spectrometers, metallographic analyzers, coordinate measuring machines, etc., and are professionally supported by our R&D department Supported by engineers and strict quality control team.TND Axle's industry experience has won the trust and welcome of the majority of users. We will continue to provide high-quality trailers, semi-trailers and other heavy vehicle parts and good after-sales services to new and old customers, and develop together! TND looks forward to working with you to create a brilliant and win-win future.
