Improved Designs For Asphalt Trailers Can Help Contractors Save Money

By Author: Larry Chandler
Total Articles: 738
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As the cooler weather arrives to most of the country paving companies can have a bit of a dilemma on their hands. Asphalt trailers carrying warm paving materials need to keep the materials warm. If the outside temperature is too cold, or the distance too great to the new job site, then the asphalt may cool off to the point that it cannot be applied properly.

Expensive Problem


This type of situation can create more than one problem. Obviously, there is the cost to the contractor of paying for the material and not being able to use them. In addition, there may be a penalty or fine assessed to the contractor if the job is not completed on time.

Ingenuity Provides an Answer


One common solution to the problem has been to add proper insulation to asphalt trailers. When the idea was first proposed some manufacturers, as well as contractors, began using boards covered in foam as the insulator. The boards were placed between the posts on the sides of the trailers and then covered up with a thin layer of metal. This layer of either stainless-steel ...
... or aluminum was held in place by use of pop rivets.

However, the thin metal was not the best solution. Due to the metal’s nature, asphalt could make a dent in the metal or even cause a tear in the metal face. This was problematic enough, but not the chief complaint. The main complaint was the addition of more than 200 pounds to asphalt trailers caused by the extra insulation.

New Solution Provides Savings


A new innovation in the designs of asphalt trailers can reduce the weight of insulation to approximately 24 lbs. Instead of using the old-fashioned post walls with traditional sheet metal, the walls are now completely smooth and have a hollow center. This core can then be filled with R-value brands of insulation that are much lighter. In addition, the smooth walls are stronger than the thin layers of metal used in the old insulation system. The smooth sides also make the overall trailer perform better with improved aerodynamics which can help reduce the amount of fuel needed for transportation.

Most contractors appreciate the asphalt trailers with smooth sides since they are more adaptable to adding logos, nice graphics and general cleanliness. The addition of the double-wall concept also prevents the materials from leaving dents on the exterior walls which maintains the trailer’s value for resale.

To be fair the new smooth walled asphalt trailers with hollow cores are more expensive initially compared to the older styled trailers. However, the improved efficiency and cheaper upkeep reduces the overall cost of the trailer over time. To entice buyers even more, many manufacturers of the newly designed trailers will offer to reinforce the metal in the high use areas of the trailer to enhance the life of the equipment.


Larry Chandler is a freelance writer for Matlack Leasing, makers of rubber lined tanks and stainless steel tank trailers. To see some of their offerings and learn about their services please visit their website at Matlackleasing.com.