An aluminium-framed van under construction at Roadstar .
ALUMINIUM FRAME
Contrary to what many people believe , aluminium frames have been used for caravans since the late 1970s and early 80s . Millard and Viscount both used aluminium frames back then and their vans were renowned for their strength and longevity . In fact , these older vans are much sought-after for renovation as their frames are usually still in excellent condition .
Nowadays , some of the biggest names in the industry build their caravans with aluminium frames , such as Jayco , Coromal and Kedron . Many other brands also offer aluminium as an alternative to meranti-framed vans as more and more customers look to avoid the potential issue of rot .
Aluminium frames are extremely robust , making them ideal for offroad caravans . That said , there are numerous ways an aluminium frame can be made which may affect its strength and durability .
Some use C channel while other use box section for the frame ’ s construction . The frame beams can be fixed together using poprivets , pin-pinched with hi-tensile pins , or welded together . Roadstar Caravans has recently started constructing its aluminium frames using ‘ aircraft grade ’ Henrob selfpiercing rivets .
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