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Growing Trend for Aluminum Framed RVs

There is a growing trend in the recreational vehicle (RV) market toward building higher-quality products with aluminum framing rather than wood. This shift is driven by several factors related to durability, weight, and resistance to environmental damage.

  1. Durability and Longevity: Aluminum-framed RVs are more resistant to rot, mold, and warping compared to traditional wood-framed models. This makes aluminum an attractive option for consumers looking for a longer-lasting, low-maintenance product ?(Global Market Insights Inc.). Wood frames can be prone to damage from moisture over time, whereas aluminum holds up better in various weather conditions.
  2. Weight Reduction: Aluminum is significantly lighter than wood, reducing the overall weight of the RV. This translates to better fuel efficiency and ease of towing, especially for smaller vehicles or longer journeys? (Mordor Intelligence). Lightweight construction is becoming a key feature for modern RV buyers, especially those prioritizing mobility and fuel savings.
  3. Advanced Technology and Design: The trend toward using aluminum framing aligns with other technological advancements in the RV industry, such as improved aerodynamics and materials that enhance both durability and fuel efficiency. Aluminum construction complements these innovations by offering a modern, sleek design that appeals to consumers looking for both aesthetic and functional upgrades ?(Fortune Business Insights).
  4. Sustainability: Aluminum is also a more sustainable option as it can be recycled and has a lower environmental impact during production. The growing consumer interest in eco-friendly products is pushing manufacturers to offer RVs with more sustainable materials, including aluminum? (Technavio).

In summary, the shift from wood to aluminum framing in RVs reflects the broader trends of increasing durability, weight reduction, and environmental consciousness in the RV market. This trend is expected to continue as manufacturers respond to consumer demands for higher quality and more sustainable RVs.

Products

Introducing, the API Aluminum “Shapeable I-Beam” RV Roof Truss

Our shapeable I-beam truss is a patented product that was developed several years ago and was initially used by only a select group of RV manufacturers. Our very first customer still relies on our truss for every unit they build. With our current production capacity, now is the perfect time to take advantage of the benefits our truss offers.

Our truss boasts an engineered all-aluminum construction that is assembled using an automotive-style patented clinching system, which eliminates the need for welding or additional fasteners. This system ensures dimensional accuracy for a precise fit and easy installation. While slightly more expensive than wood trusses, our aluminum truss offers the advantages of being warp- and rot-resistant, providing superior durability and longevity.

Our 94" truss is impressively lightweight, weighing only 45 ounces. Despite this, it has a load rating of 350 lbs and can flex and return to its original shape while bearing loads over 400 lbs. It can withstand loads of up to 800 lbs before reaching its point of failure. It is the perfect combination of weight and strength, providing unparalleled performance while reducing unit weight. Its lightweight design helps to reduce fuel consumption and improve overall vehicle efficiency.

Customization is a key feature of our patented shapeable I-beam truss. We understand that each RV design has unique requirements, which is why we offer customization options to fit your specific needs. Our engineering department can work with you to create a truss that meets your exact specifications, whether you require a different shape, size, or load rating.

While we recognize that other supply options exist in the market, our aluminum truss is a real game-changer in the RV industry. Its lightweight construction, strength, durability, and customization options make it the ideal choice for those building and promoting a lightweight aluminum-framed travel trailer, fifth wheel, or motorhome. Don't compromise on quality, upgrade to API's aluminum truss, today, and enjoy the benefits of the best in the market!

We’re located conveniently in LaGrange, Indiana. Contact us at 260-463-2515
Or contact Dennis Tucker, of Dart Sales, at 574-596-4013

THE API DIFFERENCE

RV Roof Trusses and the Truth About Wood vs. Aluminum

In the realm of recreational vehicle construction, the roof truss system is a vital structural element, providing essential support and stability to the entire unit. As RV enthusiasts and manufacturers prioritize safety, durability, and performance, the choice of materials for roof trusses becomes a pivotal consideration. In this context, the API Load Testing is a crucial evaluation platform, specifically comparing the API Aluminum Roof Truss to traditional wood trusses, aiming to determine their respective capacities to withstand vertical live loads and real-world stresses like snow loads, adverse weather, and transportation conditions.

The API Aluminum RV Roof Truss presents itself as a modern contender utilizing the lightweight yet robust properties of aluminum, offering advantages such as a high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and dimensional stability. These properties translate into superior performance under load-bearing conditions, weight reduction, enhancing fuel efficiency, and overall RV handling characteristics.

In contrast, traditional wood trusses, while versatile and cost-effective, raise concerns regarding durability, moisture absorption, warping, and rot, prompting a reevaluation in favor of alternative materials like aluminum. Through meticulous load-bearing testing, the API Truss Test aims to provide practical insights into the comparative performance of different roof truss materials by measuring parameters such as load capacity, deflection, and elasticity.

Ultimately, the findings of this load-bearing test are poised to shape the future landscape of RV construction, guiding stakeholders toward adopting roof truss solutions that prioritize the safety, durability, and performance of recreational vehicles.

In this test, the trusses are individually tested in a fixture replicating the actual support points, without restraining horizontal movement. 5000 lb. load cells are utilized as the support points, positioned as intended for installation in a recreational vehicle, providing the required clear span distance. Test loads are evenly applied using eight, 2” air cylinders. Each test utilizes a new, unstressed roof truss.

Thank you for this opportunity to demonstrate the API Difference.

OUR VISION

We have a vision to revolutionize the RV industry by setting the standard for excellence in innovation, quality, and sustainability. We envision a future where our advanced aluminum RV roof trusses empower manufacturers and adventurers alike, reshaping the way RVs are built, experienced, and valued. Driven by our passion for technological advancement and a commitment to uncompromising quality, we aim to be the preferred partner for RV manufacturers seeking the pinnacle of engineering and durability.

We envision ten-year structural warranties as the standard and not the exception. Our vision is to inspire a movement towards long-lasting, eco-conscious RVs that enrich lives and build a treasure of memorable journeys. As industry leaders, we aspire to forge a legacy of superior innovation, influencing not only the products we create but also the industry's perception of excellence.

Our dedication to continuous innovation, environmental stewardship, and customer satisfaction fuels our journey towards a future where Automated Products International is synonymous with innovation, trust, and leadership. We invite you to join our partners and stakeholders, as we unite in our pursuit of value driven transformation, pushing boundaries to create a new era of RVing that embodies longevity, quality, and the thrill of exploration!

ABOUT API

Founded in 1994, and led by entrepreneur Ronald Yoder, Automated Products International, LLC (API) has grown from a start-up Company producing aluminum clamps and accessories for the light truck market into an aluminum products manufacturer producing the lightest, strongest, and most versatile vehicle roof support system in the world. This innovative structural component has allowed API to penetrate the recreational vehicle and custom trailer markets and has allowed many companies to move away from an unstable wood truss system and towards API's stronger aluminum system that is impervious to weather and rot. Using proprietary methods, API utilizes custom forming, cutting, and shaping to produce its patented aluminum components for customers in the Recreational Vehicle, Transportation and Light Truck industries.

The Company's diverse client base includes a number of premier original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and tier suppliers such as Heartland RV, Cruiser RV, Forest River RV, and ARE, amongst others.

The API management team provides its valued customers with the highest quality products in the industry. API has established a reputation for exceptional customer service, combining the latest technologies and superior components with a zero-defect objective. Management's ability to drive the expeditious production of high-quality components has been integral to the success of the Company.

Automated Products International, LLC
2840 North State Road 9, Suite 3
LaGrange, IN 46761
800.220.1843

OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM

Ronald L. Yoder

President/CEO (Majority Owner, Founding Member Since 1994)

Meet the driving force behind API, Ronald L. Yoder, our President, and CEO. Since co-founding Automated Products International in 1994, Mr. Yoder has been the visionary architect of our success. As the majority owner, his leadership has not only shaped API's trajectory but has also solidified its position as a pioneering force in the industry. With an unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence, Mr. Yoder continues to lead API into new frontiers.

Heidi Shaffer

Chief Operations Officer (Owner, Employed Since 1999)

As our Chief Operations Officer and co-owner, Heidi Shaffer is the heartbeat of our operational prowess. Joining API in 1999, Ms. Shaffer has played a pivotal role in our growth and success. Her dedication to operational efficiency and excellence, coupled with her ownership stake, reflects a deep commitment to the long-term success of API. Ms. Shaffer's leadership ensures that API continues to set industry benchmarks.

Tim Miller

Production Manager (Owner, Employed Since 2010)

Driving our production capabilities is Tim Miller, our Production Manager and co-owner. Since joining API in 2010, Mr. Miller has been instrumental in enhancing our production processes. His ownership stake underscores a personal investment in the quality and innovation that defines API. Mr. Miller's leadership ensures that our production remains at the forefront of industry standards.

Leonard Lehman

Silent Owner, Tool and Machine Builder Since 1994

Meet Leonard Lehman, a silent but integral owner of API. Since 1994, Mr. Lehman has been the mastermind behind the tools and machines that power API's manufacturing excellence. His silent partnership and expertise as a tool and machine builder have been indispensable to our operations. Mr. Lehman's contributions behind the scenes have been a cornerstone of API's success.

Together, Ronald L. Yoder, Heidi Shaffer, Tim Miller, and Leonard Lehman form the dynamic and dedicated leadership team of API. Their collective vision, commitment, and expertise are the driving forces propelling API to new heights of success and innovation in the Recreational Vehicle and Light Truck Industries.