Six reasons why plastic welding is the best solution for truck side-curtains 

Curtain-side trucks and lorries offer easy access to the cargo area, making them ideal for logistics operations. Often flatbed trucks, they are fitted with a frame, or top and bottom rails, which in turn support reinforced, weather-resistant fabric curtains. Curtain-side trucks and lorries offer the same protection as an enclosed van or lorry, but the curtains can be drawn back to give operators the flexibility to load and unload cargo from all angles.

When making curtains for this type of vehicle, manufacturers must be sure the finished curtain provides a durable solution that will withstand heavy use, maintain structural integrity, and protect the load from environmental factors. For this reason, many manufacturers opt to use hot air plastic welding as part of their manufacturing process.

In this blog, out team explore the benefits of using plastic welding when fabricating side-curtains and tarpaulins for industrial use:

1 Strength and durability 

Plastic welding uses high temperatures to melt thermoplastic industrial fabrics and bond them together. The result is an airtight and watertight seam, creating a durable joint that is often stronger than the original material.  This strength and longevity is important in the production of side curtains. By their very nature, they are often put under duress from loading, or when exposed to the elements.

As well as being used in the initial manufacturing and installation process, hot air plastic welding can also be used to repair thermoplastics that have become cracked and broken – extending their service life significantly.

2 Protecting the cargo from the elements 

Welding plastic materials ensures that the joints are seamless and waterproof, preventing leaks and protecting the cargo from rain, dust, and other environmental factors. The materials used are also highly resistant to other environmental conditions, including UV exposure, temperature fluctuations, and chemical exposure. This resistance ensures that side curtains do not degrade quickly over time, extending their service life.

3 Versatile and cost effective

It is often more economical to fabricate plastic products as separate pieces, rather than one large one. Hot air plastic welding offers a cost-effective way to create side curtains of varying sizes. It creates a very strong bond between plastic materials, with relatively low material costs, while also offering consistent quality and faster production times than mechanical fastening or adhesives. Plastic welding can be applied to a variety of thermoplastic materials commonly used in side curtains, offering manufacturers versatility in their manufacturing process.

4 They won’t impact fuel efficiency  

With fuel costs rising, ensuring fuel efficiency is a key concern for any logistics operation. The materials used in plastic welding do not add any significant weight to the truck – providing a lightweight yet strong solution that won’t impact fuel efficiency.

5 Plastic welded seams look better 

With the sides of trucks and lorries often branded to carry marketing messages, looking good is an important factor! Welded seams are often smoother and less visible than those created with mechanical fasteners or adhesives. This can be important for branding presentation and the overall appearance of the truck.

6 Plastic welding offers easy maintenance 

The durability and robustness of plastic-welded joints mean that curtain side require less maintenance and fewer repairs over their lifespan. Hot air welding can also be used for quick repairs, instead of complete replacements.  This keeps trucks and lorries on the road by reducing downtime and maintenance costs for truck operators.

Want to know more?

PlasticWeld is the UK’s main supplier of the whole range of BAK plastic welding equipment and tools.

Renowned for their innovation and quality, the BAK plastic fabrication range includes hot air welding tools, hot air welding machines, and hot wedge welders, providing the ideal choice of tool and machinery for tarpaulin and curtain side specialists, from smaller repairs to whole curtain side projects for the largest of trucks.

Check out the range https://www.plasticweld.uk/product-category/plastic-fabrication/ or contact our expert team on 03308 186 176 or at sales@plasticweld.uk  We’ll be happy to recommend the best BAK equipment for your tarpaulin needs.