Semi Truck Trailer Reflectors & Light Lenses

You might have noticed that most traffic signs reflect the light of your headlamps when they are directed towards them. This is done to increase their visibility at nighttime, so you can see and read them at a long distance. The same job is performed by your trailer reflectors and, partially, its lights' lenses. Just like traffic signs, the reflectors on your trailer back the light from other vehicles to its source, allowing their drivers to see your trailer at nighttime even if your trailer lighting is off. They are passive safety features designed to increase your visibility at night and in poor weather conditions.

A reflector is an arrangement of mirrors positioned in the way that allows for reflecting light from different sources. If you look at a reflector, you will see a specific pattern that is created by the mirrors. Depending on the type of reflector and the method used to obtain retroreflection, this pattern may differ in size and design. By themselves, reflectors also vary in dimensions and shape, ranging from round and triangular to oval and rectangular. When it comes to the color, they usually come in red or amber, since other colors are forbidden to use for automotive applications.

Lenses are the most visible part of any trailer lights. They do an essential job, protecting the bulbs and connectors from the elements, dirt, and moisture. Lenses also help direct the light produced by the bulbs, creating a more focused beam. Depending on the application, the color of lenses may vary from white to amber and red. Amber lenses are usually found in turn signal and front side marker lights, while red ones are common for tail lights and brake lights. White is only used for backup or reverse lamps and is not allowed to use for other types of rear lights.

The majority of trailer reflectors and lenses are manufactured from automotive-grade plastic which is resistant to cracks and UV rays. It is very lightweight and will not break into plenty of minute pieces if a collision occurs. Both lenses and reflectors can be installed in several ways. They can be either bolt on or attached with an adhesive tape or glue, as well as installed using both methods. When it comes to installing a lens, the right gasket or quality sealing should be used to prevent moisture and dirt from entering the housing to protect the light from a short circuit.

All reflectors on your trailer must meet performance standards and requirements specified by US regulations. They say how many reflectors the trailer must have, and what color and size they should be. According to these rules, the number of reflectors may vary from one to several items on each side, and is determined by the length and width of your trailer. Thus, trailers shorter than 30' and narrower than 80" must have two side marker reflectors on each side and two rear reflectors, while longer and wider trailers must also feature intermediate side marker reflectors and continuous body markings.