Premium OEM Tarp Parts: Spiral Torsion Springs and Replacement Tarps

Choosing the right electric tarp system can improve safety, increase efficiency, and provide a significant return on investment. OEM manufacturers offer arm-style tarp systems and replacement parts to meet your specific requirements. In this article, we'll look closely at some of the industry’s most reliable tarping systems and the key components that matter. 

Understanding Truck and Trailer Tarp Needs Across Industries 

Selecting the right tarp system for your truck or trailer depends on the specific application, body type and the materials being hauled. Whether you’re working in construction, municipal, or scrap hauling, understanding your truck or trailer’s needs ensures the best tarp system for safety, load protection, and efficiency.

For example, dump trailers used in construction typically transport loose materials such as gravel, sand and aggregate. These trailers often require mesh tarps woven to optimize air flow, yet still contain fine particles like a Premium Mesh tarp. A front-to-back arm-style tarp system is the most common solution for these applications. Municipal dump trucks, often used for hauling dirt, refuse and road base have similar tarp requirements.

For scrap trailers, the requirements are more robust due to the heavy, oversized, and often sharp loads they transport. Scrap trailers typically use long tarps ranging from 26 feet to up to 53 feet which require high-capacity housing. In these applications, Super Tough mesh tarps, combined with a powerful electric motor and a spiral torsion spring system offer the durability and strength required for this type of hauling.

Key Components of a Tarp System

The arm-style tarp solution is a common and ideal choice given its versatility. These tarp systems are designed for most standard dump trucks and trailers. The tarp system is mounted externally while metal arms are mounted to each side of the body and attached to a crossbar that attaches to the tarp. Springs, pivot pins, and a motor are used to carefully roll or unroll the tarp. Below is a closer look at some of the most important components of an electric tarping system. 

A Quality Electric Motor: Look for a reliable motor designed for the high torque demands of tarping. Heat-treated gears will offer a longer life and warranty to protect your investment in the case of premature wear out.

Sturdy Tarp Arms: The tarp system arms should offer durable construction and a professional appearance. While the specifications of the arms might vary depending on your set-up, look for arms manufactured from specially treated, high-strength extruded aluminum alloy for the lightest, most durable tarp arm with maximum strength-to-weight ratio.

Spiral Torsion Springs: Spiral torsion springs provide the necessary tension and pivot capacity to effectively deploy the tarp across the truck or trailer. The number of springs directly correlates to the tarp length, weight, and fabric weave with consideration to airflow resistance. For example, a loosely woven mesh tarp deploys much easier in windy conditions than a solid vinyl tarp. Higher spring counts offer greater control, tension, and durability needed for longer trailer tarps. Look for springs with anti-friction coatings for corrosion and wear resistance which will provide a longer service life. 

The TarpMaster® Series: Safe and Reliable Tarping

One of the industry’s most widely used arm-style systems is Roll·Rite’s TarpMaster® Series, available for both dump trucks and trailers. These systems are designed to fit most industry-standard dump trucks from single axle to multi-axle end dumps, and industry-standard trailers such as end dump, belly dump, and pup trailers. The systems are pre-packaged with pre-assembled components for easy installation.

Super Duty EX Series: High-Capacity Tarping

Roll·Rite’s Super Duty EX Series electric tarp systems are engineered for a range of trailer applications, including industry-standard dump trailers and scrap or gondola trailers up to 53 feet in length. Designed for traditional front-to-back tarping, these systems come pre-packaged with pre-assembled components for easy installation and reliable performance.

Heavy Duty Vinyl Tarps: Strength and Durability

Heavy duty vinyl tarps are an excellent choice for many industry applications due to their exceptional durability and weather resistance. Vinyl tarps provide complete coverage and secure protection for sensitive or heavy loads, preventing moisture damage, debris spillage, and material loss. However, there are many truck and trailer tarp options available. Be sure to explore all your options and contact the manufacturer with any questions.

•    Mesh: An industry standard tarp material designed for general tarping purposes. 
•    Vinyl:  Best for moisture or temperature-sensitive loads, not suited for direct contact with asphalt loads. 
•    Asphalt: As the name suggests, these are suitable for hauling temperate-sensitive asphalt where the tarp comes into direct contact with the asphalt load

Remember that there are numerous ways that a tarp can become damaged throughout its life. Loading and unloading materials, sharp debris in the bed, wind whip, and improper fitting place your tarp at risk of becoming inoperable. If you need to replace a tarp while on the road, check out Roll·Rite® replacement tarps. Our Rapid Tarps™ program is a quick ship replacement tarp program designed to get you operational as quickly as possible.

Next Steps: Replacement Tarps and Tarp Systems

By carefully matching the tarp system to the specific demands of your industry and load type, you can enhance your safety, durability, and performance. Whether you’re operating in construction, municipal work, or scrap hauling, selecting the right tarp length and spring system ensures that your tarp system will meet the demands of your daily operations.

Consultations for tarp and safety solutions are available through Roll·Rite's Safe Fleet Service Centers. You may contact our experts directly for quotes, product information, or for help finding your authorized distributor.