Truck leaf springs, also known as multi-leaf springs or laminated springs, are crucial suspension components that ensure smooth operation when carrying heavy loads or navigating rough terrains. Multi-leaf truck springs are favored for their excellent load-bearing capacity, durability, and reasonable cost. This article will delve into the details of truck leaf springs, their structure, function, and common types available in the market.
Tien Phat Workshop: Address for quality, affordable three-wheeled vehicle leaf springs
What are Truck Leaf Springs?
Truck leaf springs are suspension components with high elasticity, typically installed on both sides near the rear wheels, beneath the vehicle frame. They play a vital role in minimizing shocks to the upper part of the vehicle, ensuring a smooth ride for both the driver and cargo.
Structure of Truck Leaf Springs
Truck leaf springs are constructed from curved spring steel leaves stacked on top of each other in order from shortest to longest and compressed together by bolts or rivets in the center. The two longest outer leaves are used to attach to the vehicle frame and other components. Leaf springs are made of carbon steel, which is highly rigid yet maintains ductility and strength.
Structure of three-wheeled vehicle leaf springs formed by stacking leaves with a certain curvature
Truck leaf springs also include friction pads that allow the leaves to slide against each other during vehicle operation. Both ends of the friction pads are attached to brackets connected to the vehicle frame and are rotatable. The center of the leaf spring is linked to the rear axle of the vehicle. The greater the length of the leaf spring, the better the elasticity; the more leaves, the greater the stiffness and load-bearing capacity. However, overly stiff leaf springs can also compromise ride smoothness.
Functions of Truck Leaf Springs
The primary function of truck leaf springs is to dampen shocks for the vehicle during operation and when carrying cargo. Additionally, leaf springs serve several other important purposes:
- Helping the vehicle maintain its position, ensuring safety for the driver and cargo during transport.
- Controlling strong vibrations when loading cargo or traveling over uneven roads.
- Increasing the vehicle’s durability and load-bearing capacity when carrying heavy loads.
- Reducing minor vibrations from the road surface, suitable for heavy-duty vehicles like trucks.
Three-wheeled vehicle leaf spring functions to reduce shock, increase durability, and improve load capacity
The curved structure of leaf springs allows the vehicle to withstand compressive forces more effectively. The friction between the leaves helps reduce the force applied perpendicularly to the wheels and rear axle, minimizing vehicle bounce without affecting the frame and rear axle.
In summary, truck leaf springs have three main functions:
- Bearing the load of the entire rear of the vehicle.
- Damping shocks for smooth and comfortable movement.
- Reducing bounce and eliminating natural forces acting on the vehicle frame and rear axle.
Technical Specifications of Truck Leaf Springs
Currently, 6mm and 8mm leaf spring thicknesses are the two most commonly used types in the market. Leaf spring thickness does not affect the structure or vibration absorption capacity of the spring. When purchasing leaf springs, it is important to pay attention to the specifications and load limits of each type.
You can refer to the load limits of some common truck leaf spring types:
- 6mm thick leaf spring: load capacity of approximately 38kg.
- 7mm thick leaf spring: load capacity of approximately 46kg.
- 8mm thick leaf spring: load capacity of approximately 54kg.
Common Types of Truck Leaf Springs
Currently, 7-leaf and 11-leaf truck springs are the most popular.
- 7-leaf springs offer good stiffness and high load capacity at a reasonable price, suitable for many types of trucks.
- 11-leaf springs have better elasticity and higher load capacity, suitable for larger displacement, high-load trucks.
11-leaf springs for three-wheeled vehicles
Choosing Quality Truck Leaf Springs
To ensure durability and effective shock absorption, it is recommended to carry cargo within the specified load limits to avoid overloading. If you notice poor shock absorption from the leaf springs, you should inspect and repair or replace them.
Tien Phat Three-Wheeled Vehicle Workshop is a reputable supplier of quality, genuine truck leaf springs at affordable prices. Contact Tien Phat at 0938.551.456 (Mr. Son) – 0949.240.345 (Mr. Phat) for consultation and the latest truck leaf spring quotes.
