Load off your mind
Need to move a bit of kit about but not sure what type of truck deck will be right for the job? Plant body builder Sterling is on hand to advise.
Okay, you already know that you want your mode of transport to be safe and durable enough to handle some tough situations but what materials should you choose?
Having designed and manufactured beavertail truck bodies for various sectors in the industry, we know that each has its own unique decking requirements. So, what factors should be taken into account to make the right decision?
The point-loading of the load is one of the most important considerations when choosing decking. While some trucks will transport a full load of small lighter kit per run, other trucks will transport less items which may be very heavy. Some machines, whilst they may be small have extremely high point loading, e.g., a road planer or 3-wheel forklift. Other machines such as large 14 tonne excavators haven’t necessarily got the highest point loading but tend to have the greatest mass.
Then there’s also the matter of the type of traffic to be accommodated. A truck body, its decking, and loading ramps will have to tolerate anything from steel tracks to rubber wheels and tracks to metal drum rollers. Rubber tracks and tyres would cause less stress on surfaces as the rubber is a softer material whereas steel tracks can even cause damage to some deck surfaces. Rollers with their smooth steel drums have little grip so again have their own unique decking requirements.
A Good Decking
There are basically four different types of decking for truck bodies, which can be configured in different combinations to meet the individual requirements of each operation. Each type of decking has certain characteristics which makes it suitable for each individual application.
