Last Updated on April 10, 2022 by Nasir Hanif
Trucks and buses incorporate shock absorbers to moderate the vibrations from riding on uneven terrain. These vehicle suspension systems expand and recant for balanced pressure and optimise the contact between the wheels and the ground. The contact is crucial in boosting stability, control, and your truck’s general performance.
Shock absorbers also absorb inertia during the application of brakes and the transportation of tonnes of imbalanced cargo. It’s the reason quality shock absorbers for Australian buses increase stability on uneven roads.
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How shock absorbers work Trucks and Buses?
The industry is filled with different brands and types of shock absorbers. However, they pretty much work under the same principles. Once your suspension system moves, it produces kinetic energy. Shock absorbers then utilise the kinetic energy and turn it into thermal energy. The thermal energy then dissipates in the form of heat.
A shock absorber incorporates a piston and a fluid-filled cylinder. When your truck senses a shift to uneven terrain, the suspension system and springs start moving. The piston is concurrently pushed into the fluid-filled cylinder to moderate the suspension’s system motion. The compression from the piston causes the moderating fluid to heat up.
The shock absorber then slowly releases the hot moderating fluid through its cylinder’s small orifices. The fluid movement dissipates heat while slowing down your suspension system’s vibrations.
Similarly, the release of the moderating fluid influences the piston’s original position.
Types of shock absorbers
The heavy vehicle industry utilises two categories of shock absorbers differentiated by their operational fluid, namely:
· Gas charged shock absorbers
· Hydraulic shock absorbers
The above categories further vary based on design, structure, and application. Read on for the differences between the gas and hydraulic shock absorbers.
Gas charged shock absorbers
These are fitting for high-velocity trucks and buses. This is especially true for on-highway buses and trucks that use high speeds to travel for long distances.
Gas-charged shocks incorporate nitrogen to prevent aeration. They are also known for a faster response compared to their hydraulic counterparts regarding any change on the road. This rapid response is an added advantage for on-highway settings to minimise the challenge of ‘brake dives.’
Still, driving on rough terrain can be a challenge since the rapid response produces stiff and uncomfortable reactions.
Hydraulic shock absorbers
Hydraulic shock absorbers are the most common and therefore found on most trucks. Regardless, the type of hydraulic fluid is critical. It should stand up to your truck’s driving regime and typical load.
Generally, these shock absorbers are installed in vehicles that work with great variations in their loads, driving conditions, and terrain. This is because they give out a slow and gradual response suitable for lower speeds. It’s why most off-road trucks utilise hydraulic shock absorbers.
Most importantly, it’s a better idea to replace faulty shock absorbers rather than repair them. Being a bus or truck driver, you probably know that delays can put you off schedule. Be on top of your timeframes by ordering your shocks from suppliers of aftermarket parts for European trucks.
These are high-quality, affordable, and readily available for Australian buses and trucks.
Conclusion
Choose the right shock absorber by considering your driving style and conditions. Go the extra mile of minimising the risk of failure from the imbalance and uneven wear of your suspension systems with a complete set of aftermarket parts for European trucks like DAF, IVECO, MAN.
Read also: Things Not to do Right After a Car Accident
