Lightweighting is a major trend in truck technology development, employing materials such as aluminum alloys, high-strength steel (e.g., T700), and honeycomb panels to reduce weight. Polypropylene honeycomb panel cargo boxes possess excellent mechanical properties, including resistance to bending, torsion, crushing, and impact, as well as sound insulation, heat insulation, and vibration absorption. Their density can reach 4 kg/m² (for 25mm thick honeycomb panels). For every 450 kg reduction in weight, 1.5 liters of fuel will be saved per 100 kilometers.
Effective insulation for box semi-trailers requires attention to materials, structure, sealing, and temperature control. Insulation materials can include polyurethane foam with high closed-cell ratio and excellent insulation performance, fiberglass wool with fire-retardant properties, or affordable polystyrene foam. The body structure can utilize a thermal break structure to reduce thermal bridging, increase body thickness, or employ a multi-layer insulation structure. Strengthened sealing of doors and windows is necessary, using high-quality rubber sealing strips, and the installation of refrigeration or heating equipment for temperature control is also recommended.
