Why Is Aluminum Used In Vehicle Storage Systems For Emergency Vehicles?
Emergency vehicles such as police, EMS & fire, apart from red, blue, and clear amber lights and sirens, require specialized storage systems to organize and safely transport equipment and supplies. These storage systems need to be durable to withstand the elements of nature, lightweight to be efficient and fuel economical for a first response vehicle, they are designed and installed strategically to withstand the G-forces generated by rapid acceleration and sudden braking or impact at high-speed. Aluminum is often used for this purpose. Does aluminum exhibit the aforementioned properties? To elaborate, the unique properties of aluminum will be explored in detail.
Advantages Of Using Aluminum
Aluminum is a chemical element with the symbol AI and atomic number 13 it has a density lower than other common metals approximately a third of that of steel making it lighter and has an affinity for oxygen forming a protective layer of oxide when exposed to air, it is soft non-magnetic and ductile
Lightweight Yet Durable
Aluminum is a lightweight yet durable material that makes it an excellent choice for emergency vehicle storage systems. Unlike steel, which can be heavy and difficult to work with, aluminum offers manufacturers easy fabrication options while still providing strength and durability. This means that emergency vehicles can carry more equipment and supplies without adding extra weight.
Can Absorb Twice The Force Of Steel
Aluminum is not only lightweight and durable, but it can also absorb twice the force of steel. This unique property makes it an excellent material for use in vehicle storage systems for emergency vehicles.
When emergency personnel are transporting equipment, they need to be able to rely on their storage systems to keep everything secure and protected during transit. Aluminum's ability to absorb impact forces means that even if there is an accident or sudden jolt, the stored items will remain secure and safe.
This feature comes from aluminum’s molecular structure, which allows it to deform under stress without cracking or breaking.
Excellent Corrosion Resistance
One of the main reasons why aluminum is used in vehicle storage systems is its excellent corrosion-resistant properties. Unlike other metals, such as steel or iron, aluminum does not rust when exposed to moisture or oxygen. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor applications, including emergency vehicles, where exposure to different weather conditions can be a challenge.
In addition to being naturally resistant to corrosion, aluminum can also be treated with various coatings and finishes that enhance its non-corrosive nature even further. For instance, anodizing involves adding an extra layer of oxide coating through chemical treatment that provides added protection against wear and tear.
Great Thermal Conductivity Makes It Ideal For Electronic Storage
Aluminum's great thermal conductivity makes it an ideal material for electronic storage in vehicles. Electronic devices generate a lot of heat, and if they are not stored properly, the heat can cause damage to the components. Aluminum's ability to dissipate heat quickly helps prevent this.
When electronics are stored in aluminum containers or cabinets, the metal absorbs and distributes any excess heat evenly across its surface area. This means that there is less chance of hot spots forming which could potentially harm sensitive equipment.
Now that the beneficial properties of aluminum are laid out, the next segment will focus on why only certain types of metal are used to design storage systems.
Why 3003 Aluminum Is Used For Vehicle Storage And Not 5082 Aluminum?
When it comes to vehicle storage systems, aluminum is the material of choice due to its lightweight yet durable nature. However, not all types of aluminum are suitable for this purpose.
One common question that arises when it comes to choosing the right type of aluminum for vehicle storage systems is: why 3003 aluminum and not 5082 aluminum?
The answer lies in the properties of each type of alloy. While both alloys have good corrosion resistance and formability, 3003 aluminum is better flexible and pliable and welds better as compared to 5082 aluminum which would crack on bending or stress. This makes it easier to manufacture and assemble for customizations.
In addition, 3003 aluminum has a higher elongation capacity than 5082 aluminum which means it can absorb more energy before breaking or deforming. This makes it ideal for use in emergency vehicles where equipment needs to be securely stored while also being able to withstand sudden shocks or impacts.
The 932-0015A Equipment Tray From D&R Electronics. Co. Ltd.
D&R Electronics Co. Ltd. also uses aluminum in many of its storage systems, one of them being the 923-0015A Equipment Tray. Here are some of its salient features:
● Designed for 2011-2019 Dodge Charger
● Covers the full width of the trunk
● The 10-gauge aluminum tray can be slid out for easy accessibility and storage
● A perforated aluminum panel on the front offers additional protection
For complete Utility Fleet or Emergency Fleet solutions including LED beacons, police sirens, storage systems, traffic arrow boards, perimeter lighting and more, check out D&R Electronics Co. Ltd. for innovative solutions. We have 40+ years of enriched experience working with various police and public sectors around the globe. For more information on our products and services, visit dandrelectronics.com.
