What are the structural components of a flatbed trailer?
2 Answers
Structural components of a flatbed trailer: Service brake system: The service brake system of a flatbed trailer is the braking system, which utilizes a hydraulic booster system. It consists of a brake pedal, brake fluid, master cylinder, brake lines, wheel cylinders, and brake assemblies. During braking, pressing the brake pedal activates the master cylinder to send brake fluid to the wheel cylinders, which then act on the brake pads, discs, or drums to force the wheels to slow down, achieving the braking effect. Brake fluid: Brake fluid is the liquid medium that transmits braking pressure in a vehicle's hydraulic braking system. Used in vehicles with hydraulic brake systems, brake fluid (also called brake oil or hydraulic fluid) serves as a force-transmitting medium because liquids are incompressible.
The flatbed trailer looks incredibly sturdy, relying mainly on three major components: The most noticeable is the large flatbed, typically made of reinforced steel plates or patterned aluminum panels with anti-slip grooves on the surface. Hidden underneath is the entire chassis frame, functioning like a human spine, running from the front to the rear of the vehicle, reinforced with cross beams to resist bending. The front section and the trailer turntable deserve special mention—the hitch comes with a safety lock, and the turntable allows the rear section to turn flexibly without twisting. There are tie-down rings at all four corners for securing cargo with steel cables. The axle area is particularly well-designed, featuring a balanced suspension system paired with leaf springs to ensure the wheels handle bumps steadily. The steering and braking systems are linked to the tractor unit, so when you hit the brakes, the trailer stops too. Lastly, don’t forget the reflective panels and safety chains—they’re lifesavers when driving on highways at night.