The Bumper on a Semi Trailer
Semi trucks are a familiar sight on highways all over the world, transporting goods from one place to another. These large, heavy vehicles require a lot of power and are designed to carry heavy loads, meaning that a lot of stress is placed on their various parts and components. One important component of a semi trailer is the bumper. But what is the bumper on a semi trailer actually called, and what is its purpose?
What is the Bumper on a Semi Trailer Called?
While the bumper on a car is often referred to simply as \"the bumper,\" the bumper on a semi trailer has a more specific name: the ICC bar. ICC stands for \"Interstate Commerce Commission,\" which was an organization that regulated the transportation industry in the United States until it was abolished in 1996. The ICC bar is sometimes referred to as a \"rear underride guard,\" as its primary purpose is to prevent vehicles from sliding underneath the trailer in the event of a collision.
The Purpose of the ICC Bar
The primary purpose of the ICC bar is to prevent cars and other vehicles from sliding underneath the trailer in the event of a collision. This can be especially important in accidents that occur at high speeds, as the impact force can be greater. If a vehicle were to slide underneath the trailer, there is a risk that the occupants of the car could be crushed or decapitated. The ICC bar helps to mitigate this risk by acting as a barrier between the trailer and other vehicles.
How the ICC Bar Works
The ICC bar is designed to be mounted to the rear of the trailer, at a height of 22-30 inches from the ground. It is made from steel or aluminum and is designed to absorb and distribute the energy of an impact over a larger surface area. This helps to prevent the vehicle from sliding underneath the trailer, as the ICC bar will stop the car from moving forward any further. In addition to preventing underride accidents, the ICC bar can also protect the trailer from damage in the event of a rear-end collision.
The Importance of Maintaining the ICC Bar
The ICC bar plays a critical role in preventing serious accidents and protecting the occupants of other vehicles on the road. However, if the ICC bar is damaged or improperly maintained, it may not be able to perform its intended function. For this reason, it is important for trucking companies and drivers to regularly inspect and maintain the ICC bar to ensure that it is in good working condition. Damaged or worn ICC bars should be replaced immediately to prevent the risk of underride accidents.
Conclusion
The bumper on a semi trailer, also known as the ICC bar or rear underride guard, is a critical component of these large and heavy vehicles. Its primary function is to prevent other vehicles from sliding underneath the trailer in the event of a collision. Proper maintenance and inspection of the ICC bar is essential to ensure that it is able to perform its intended function and protect the safety of all drivers on the road.
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