When you see those big trucks on the highway, you may wonder why they are called “semi-trucks.” Although they look like whole vehicles, they get their name from a special design and purpose. The word ‘semi’ is more than just an acronym; there are interesting historical and technical reasons behind it. In this article, we will explain why these trucks are called “semi trucks” and their importance in the transportation industry.
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What is a semi-trailer truck?
Semi-trailer trucks have two main parts: a “tractor” in the front to pull the entire vehicle and a “trailer” in the back to load the cargo.
Unlike a regular truck, a semi-trailer trailer does not have wheels on the front. Its front end is placed directly on the tractor, so that part of the weight is carried by the tractor.
Because the tractor and trailer can be separated, this design makes semi trucks easier to drive, especially when turning. Also, this design allows for more cargo to be loaded.
Origin of the word Semi
The word “semi” in “semi truck” means “semi-trailer”. Why is it called “semi”? Because only part of the trailer is supported by itself, and the other part is supported by the tractor in front of it. “Semi” in English means ‘part of’ or ‘half’, so this kind of vehicle is called ”semi truck So this kind of truck is called “semi truck”. This design allows the semi truck to not only carry large amounts of cargo, but also to be more nimble on the road.
Through this simple but clever design, semi trucks have become a very important tool in the transportation industry, able to move all kinds of goods efficiently and safely.
Differences between semi-trailer trucks and full-trailer trucks
Axle Position
Semi-trailer trucks do not have wheels on the front of the trailer, they rely on the tractor to support them, which makes them more agile when turning. The trailer of a full-trailer truck has its own front and rear wheels, which are more stable but not as easy to turn as a semi-trailer truck.
Connection
Semi-trailer trucks use a device called a “fifth wheel” to connect the trailer to the tractor so that the trailer can turn with the tractor. This is why it’s called a “semi” because the trailer is partially dependent on the tractor. The trailer of a full-trailer truck is connected to the tractor by a hitch or other device and is more independent.
Transportation Efficiency
Semi-trailer trucks are more common for long trips because they load and unload faster, can carry more cargo, and use less fuel. Full trailer trucks are better suited for short hauls, and while they are more stable, they are not as efficient over long distances as semi-trailer trucks.
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18-wheeler trucks: why are they usually semi-trailer trucks?
Number of wheels and axle distribution
An 18-wheeler is almost always a semi-trailer because the design makes the vehicle more flexible. The 18 wheels are distributed between the tractor and trailer. Some of the wheels are on the front of the tractor and more are on the back of the trailer. This helps the tractor carry some of the weight of the trailer. That’s why it’s called “semi” – the trailer is partly dependent on the tractor.
Weight distribution and stability
The 18-wheel design helps the semi-trailer truck stay balanced when carrying a heavy load. Multiple wheels and their wide position help to distribute the weight of heavy loads. This keeps the vehicle stable when traveling fast or long distances. This design not only improves the carrying capacity of the vehicle, but also ensures safety when traveling.
The Versatility of Semi-Trailer Trucks
Different Types of Semi-Trailer Trucks
Semi-trailer trucks come in different types of trailers such as flatbeds, reefers, and tankers. Flatbeds do not have walls or roofs, making them ideal for carrying large or oddly shaped items. Reefer trucks have a built-in cooling system and are used to transport food items that need to be kept cold. Tanker trucks are used to transport liquids, such as oil or milk. These trailers have a “half” design that makes them easier to maneuver and more adaptable to different transportation needs.
Adaptable to Various Transportation Needs
Semi-trailer trucks are very versatile and can perform many tasks such as traveling long distances and transporting large cargo. They can also transport specialty items such as frozen food or liquids. The versatility of semi-trailer trucks makes them a key part of the logistics industry. They can perform different transportation tasks safely and efficiently.
Explanation of other related terms
Explanation of common terms
There are many terms related to “semi truck”. For example, “tractor-trailer” refers to a combination of a tractor and trailer, which is basically another way of saying “semi truck”.
“Big rig” is a common American term for a large freight truck, especially one with multiple trailers.
“Articulated lorry” is a term used in the UK and some other countries to refer to a vehicle that consists of several movable parts, similar to a ‘semi truck’.
Regional differences
Semi-trailer trucks are called different names in different countries and regions.
For example, in the United States, they are often called “semi truck” or “tractor-trailer”.
In the UK, they are called “articulated lorry”.
In Australia, it might be called “road train” or “truck and dog”.
Despite the difference in names, these terms all refer to the same type of vehicle, namely, a freight truck consisting of a tractor and trailer.
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Why are semi-trailer trucks indispensable in the transportation industry?
Semi-trailer trucks are indispensable in modern logistics because of their efficiency and flexibility. The “Semi” design allows the trailer to be changed quickly to suit different needs, simplifying the loading and unloading of goods.
Semi-trailer trucks can carry large amounts of goods, which saves time and cuts costs. They can handle many types of transportation tasks, from long-distance trips to special cargo. This makes them very important in the logistics industry.
With new technology, electric semi-trailer trucks are becoming more popular. They can handle many types of transportation tasks, from long-distance trips to special cargo. This makes them very important in the logistics industry.