Whether it's a manual or electronic air suspension system, the benefits can greatly improve the ride of the vehicle.
Take a look of some of the benefits of air suspension:
More driver comfort due to the reduction in noise, harshness, and vibration on the road that can cause driver discomfort and fatigue
Less wear and tear on the suspension system due to reduced harshness and vibration of heavy-duty driving
Trailers last longer with air suspension because the system components don't take on as much vibration
Air suspension reduces the tendency of short wheelbase trucks to bounce over rougher roads and terrain when the vehicle is empty
Air suspension improves the ride height based on the load weight and a vehicle's speed
Higher corner speeds due to air suspension being better suited to the surface of the road
Air suspension increases the transport capabilities of trucks and trailers by providing a better grip that levels the entire suspension.
An air suspension system can also be adjusted for feel, so drivers can choose between a softer feel for highway cruising or a harder ride for improved handling on more demanding roads.
In the case of hauling heavy loads, air suspension offers more consistency and keeps all wheels even.
The air suspension system keeps trucks level from side to side, especially in cases where cargo is difficult to level.
This results in reduced body roll when turning corners and curves.
Types of Air Suspension
1. Bellow Type Air Suspension (Spring)
This type of air spring consists of rubber bellows made into circular sections with two convolutions for proper functioning, as depicted in Figure. It replaces the conventional coil spring and is commonly employed in air suspension setups.
2.Piston Type Air Suspension (Spring)
In this system, a metal-air container resembling an inverted drum is connected to the frame. A sliding piston is linked to the lower wishbone, while a flexible diaphragm ensures a tight seal. The diaphragm is connected at its outer circumference to the drum's lip and at the center of the piston, as shown in Figure.
3.Elongated Bellows Air Suspension
For rear axle applications, elongated bellows with approximately rectangular shapes and semi-circular ends, typically having two convolutions, are used. These bellows are arranged between the rear axle and the vehicle frame and are reinforced with radius rods to withstand torques and thrusts, as required for efficient suspension functioning.