![]() Unfortunately, you just cannot have it all.Ĭommercial trucks and trailers, by the very nature of the work they do, require that they regularly connect and disconnect. ![]() They must balance the hardness, strength, wear, and corrosion resistance properties of the metal. The carefully controlled metallurgical composition of kingpins is designed to maximize the same properties, but the reality is that manufacturers of fifth wheels and kingpins are limited. The composition of kingpins is even more complex. The hardness of the material affects the ability of the material to withstand abrasion and the strength of the steel impacts the force necessary to deform the material. Manufacturers of fifth wheels attempt to balance the hardness of the material with the strength of the steel. They are selected to match performance requirements of the intended application.” The physical properties of cast steel can change significantly depending on the chemical composition and heat treatment. This damage can also continue to affect the rest of the fleet as the damaged truck or trailer connects to additional equipment.įifth wheels on commercial trucks are often made with cast steel.Īccording to the Reliance Foundry, “cast steels can be produced with a wide range of properties. If a kingpin or fifth wheel is damaged during the connection process it can cause excessive wear. This action creates the perfect environment for wear and damage. Semi-trucks and trailers are often connected and disconnected multiple times in a day while loading and unloading their cargo. However, anytime you have two metal objects that contact each other, you will inevitably experience wear and damage. Manufacturers of these components have made many improvements over the years to improve the wear characteristics of these parts. Many fifth wheels are made with cast steel and the kingpins are constructed with a controlled metallurgical composition. To keep this wear manageable and the equipment in operational condition, established maintenance procedures must be followed. The daily stops and tight locations that they navigate to make their deliveries results in added stress on the truck and trailer connection. These industries experience a high wear rate on their kingpin and fifth wheels. Industries such as food service and grocery keep their fleets constantly moving. ![]() To keep them operating safely on our roads they require regular maintenance and repairs. These semi-trucks connected to trailers are filled with all the essentials of life including food, clothing, medicine, and household goods. Commercial trucks and trailers are the backbone of our society. ![]()
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