Aluminium has been considered the standard for silo trailer bodies for many years; but as the range of products carried has widened, stainless steel and fibre-reinforced composite (FRP) bodies have also become strong alternatives.
Stainless Steel: Hygiene and Durability
For food-grade products and powders prone to chemical interaction, stainless steel is the safest choice in terms of surface hygiene and cleanability. Its resistance to abrasion and impact is high; its drawback is the increase in tare weight due to its density, along with the initial investment cost.
Composite: Lightness and Insulation
FRP bodies offer a substantial weight advantage even over aluminium; thanks to low thermal conductivity they provide natural insulation for temperature-sensitive products, and they suffer no corrosion issues. On the other hand, detecting and repairing impact damage requires expertise, and the manufacturer network is not as widespread as for metal bodies.
Decision Table
- Food and chemical hygiene as the priority: stainless steel
- Maximum payload and fuel economy: composite
- Balanced cost and a widespread service network: aluminium
- A mixed product portfolio: hybrid evaluation based on compartment and gasket details
The right decision starts with the list of products to be carried; the body material should be selected against the most aggressive product on that list.