A new semi-trailer for transporting grain, which promises to be lighter and stronger than traditional counterparts, has been patented by the Sespel plant in Cheboksary. The structure was assembled entirely from aluminum profiles joined not by conventional welding, but by friction stir welding — this technology makes it possible to create nearly monolithic seams without overheating the metal.
The body consists of several extruded panels with stiffening ribs, which are formed directly during pressing from a high-strength aluminum-magnesium alloy. The floor is assembled from three or more such panels, joining them to the frame using the same friction welding method.
Swing doors are provided on the sides and at the rear, the lower side boards are secured with locking mechanisms, and the front section is equipped with a lifting platform with a hydraulic cylinder — to facilitate the unloading of bulk materials.
The developers state that the main advantage of the new design is manufacturability in production while maintaining high strength. The agency has already issued a utility model patent.