Strick Trailers, a manufacturer of aluminum sheet and post trailers, is enhancing its VT100 plywood panel vans with vertically installed DymondPly lining composite panels made by Ridge Corporation.
The Monroe IN-based company said the new panels will be the preferred, standard lining system of choice for the trailer series.
Strick’s VT100 dry vans are 100 inches from post face to post face, with lining vertically installed to utilize logistic posts for versatile cargo control. To complement Strick’s sheet-and-post van construction, the Ridge thermoplastic composite wall lining is lightweight and boasts abrasion and puncture resistant qualities.
The plastic resin, combined with high-strength glass, is constructed to stand up to the intense demand of the trucking industry, the companies said. According to Ridge, “they're also hydrophobic, resist corrosion, mildew and degradation unlike traditional materials in laminated hardwood and plywood.”
The composite panels are durable and lightweight, Strick said. When equipped on a 53-foot trailer, they’re roughly 240 pounds lighter than incumbent plywood panels used today. Ridge claims the high glass content panels incorporate the highest strength-to-weight ratio in the market.
Additionally, the Royal Watson, glossy bright white exterior surface treatment is approved for direct food contact per FDA standards.
“DymondPly panels with the Royal Watson surface are naturally hydrophobic, prohibit bacterial and fungal growth, and protect against staining and unwanted odors for the life of trailer or truck body,” said Zach Rittler, director of sales and marketing at Ridge. “A definite benefit for the trucking industry, providing flexibility and reliability in every haul.”
Strick said it also can incorporate other Ridge Corporation products into any dry van build, including front wall and ceiling liners, and scuff for a cleaner, lighter, dry van reducing weight, adding strength, and providing additional functionality.
“When a supplier approaches us with an enhanced offering, we listen,” said Justin Bell, Strick Trailers vice president of engineering. “When that technology fits with Strick’s product, and makes sense for our customers, we seize the opportunity.”