Semi truck air bags are a crucial piece of safety equipment found in newer trucks. They provide an extra layer of protection in the event of an accident, and can help reduce the severity of injuries for the truck’s driver and passengers. But how do air bags work?
Air bags are made up of a nylon bag filled with a gas-generating chemical. When the truck is involved in an accident, the impact triggers sensors that cause a spark to ignite the chemical. This reaction produces nitrogen gas, which rapidly inflates the bag and cushions any occupants from impact.
The air bags are designed to deploy within milliseconds after impact, providing an effective cushion for occupants. The force of inflation is designed to be gentle enough not to cause injury, but strong enough to protect those inside the cab from serious harm.
When inflated, air bags also act as a barrier between passengers and any debris that may have entered the cab during an accident. This can help protect passengers from broken glass or other sharp objects.
Modern semi truck air bags
Modern semi truck air bags now come with additional features that further improve safety. One such feature is rollover protection technology (ROP), which uses sensors to detect when the vehicle has rolled over and deploys extra air bags along the roofline for extra protection.
Some trucks now also come with side-curtain airbags that deploy along both sides of the cab during an accident. These provide additional cushioning and protection against side impacts.
Conclusion
Semi truck air bags are one of the most important safety features on modern vehicles. By quickly deploying upon impact, they provide additional cushioning and protection for occupants in case of an accident. Modern air bags now come with added features such as ROP and side-curtain designs that further enhance safety.
