Choosing a composite or steel partition is more than just a matter of preference — it’s also about performance. The material it’s made with affects everything from your ability to get work done to keeping you safe behind the wheel.
Whether steel or composite, the barrier between your cab and cargo is too important to be an afterthought. This breakdown gives you the facts so you can make the decision that works best for you.
The Role of Partitions in Work Vans
Partitions are critical for protecting drivers, securing valuable tools, and organizing work vans to maximize productivity. But there’s more to know than just the different configurations and features. The material they’re made from directly impacts safety, comfort, and how well your vehicle supports your work.
Before choosing between steel and composite construction, it’s important to understand the differences and how they hold up in real-world situations.
Driver Protection
As anyone who’s spent time in a work van knows, tools and equipment can shift in transit. That’s not a problem when you’re driving on smooth roads, but sudden stops, potholes, and rough terrain can send loose gear flying. Partitions provide a barrier to keep loose objects out of the cabin and safeguard you from injury.
Equipment Organization and Security
Good tools aren’t cheap; cheap tools aren’t good. A well-designed partition keeps valuable cargo neat and protected against accidental damage while deterring would-be thieves from helping themselves to anything that catches their attention. Think of it like an insurance policy that works whether your van is parked or on the road.
Job-Specific Demands
Some things are universal, no matter your specialty or industry. But every trade has unique demands, and what works well for an HVAC contractor may not deliver the same for a master electrician. A well-configured partition can be as valuable on a job site as the tools you depend on.
Understanding Different Composite and Steel Partition Materials
Steel Partitions
There’s a reason steel has been the industry standard material for decades. Typically built from 16-gauge steel, their rigidity and durability can handle even the most grueling demands without failing. On top of that, strict cargo security and crash standards like ISO 27956 ensure they can withstand extreme conditions and heavy impacts.
That said, steel partitions aren’t invincible. Without proper maintenance, regular job-related wear can take a toll over time.
Composite Partitions
Composite bulkheads may not have the longstanding legacy of steel, but that doesn’t mean they’re any less durable. High-strength synthetics, like quarter-inch ABS with steel reinforcements, are engineered to absorb impacts without denting or deforming.
The durability of composites isn’t limited to structural strength, though. Unlike metal, composites don’t rust or corrode, meaning they can deal with harsh chemicals and moisture without worry.
Steel vs. Composite
Choosing between a composite and steel partition isn’t just about durability. Performance in everyday situations matters, too. While there’s no universal choice, it’s important to understand what the two materials bring to the table. Here’s how the two materials stack up.
|
Steel Partition |
Composite Parition |
|
|
Acoustic Damping (ATC) |
Scores lower due to dense, reflective metal surface; prone to vibration and resonance |
Up to 30% improvement in ATC from sound-absorbing materials and layered design |
|
Noise Impact on Drivers |
Increased in-cab noise can lead to higher stress and driver fatigue |
A quieter cabin reduces fatigue and improves situational awareness |
|
Thermal Conductivity |
High (~50 W/m·K); metal transfers heat and cold easily, increasing HVAC strain |
Low (~0.2 W/m·K); effectively insulates against temperature swings |
|
Insulation Design |
Typically uninsulated, may include air gaps or flat-fit panels |
Dual-layer construction with foam core insulation stops heat transfer |
|
Installation Process |
Multi-piece design requires precise alignment with 10+ fastening points, torque-controlled bolts, and optional welds for added integrity |
One-piece molded designs made to OEM specifications; installs in under two hours |
|
Modification Flexibility |
Easy to drill, cut, or retrofit; modifications typically don’t adversely affect the structure |
Limited options for modification; custom changes can have unintended consequences |
|
Access & Modularity |
Multiple options for doors, windows, and sliding panel features improve movement between cab and cargo |
Fewer integrated access features; not ideal for frequent or easy cab-cargo access |
|
Expected Lifespan |
10-15 years or longer; regular maintenance extends the usable service life |
8-12 years on average; repairs and upkeep are rarely necessary |
|
Maintenance |
Regular inspection and upkeep are necessary; specialized labor isn’t needed for spot repairs |
Minimal maintenance is required; repairs are less common but more complicated |
|
Ease of Repair |
High — damaged parts can be straightened, patched, or swapped as needed |
Limited — damage typically requires complete panel replacement and specialized tools |
|
Total Cost of Ownership |
Lower upfront costs and longer service life when properly maintained |
Higher up-front costs with lower ongoing costs and energy loss |
Choosing the Right Partition for Your Needs
Your vehicle is as vital to your work as your tools. There’s no right decision for every application, just the one that meets your needs.
Here are some points to consider:
- Understand your needs and priorities: How important are security, weight, noise control, ease of repair, or customization to your operations?
- Evaluate vehicle use: Pay attention to driving conditions and duration, industry demands, and equipment loads.
- Budgeting for the long haul: Weigh the upfront expense against lifetime costs, installation time, fuel savings, and maintenance requirements.
- Talk to an expert: Advice from seasoned upfit professionals can help you make a confident, well-informed decision.
It’s Not Just a Partition. It’s an Investment in Your Work.
There’s nothing “one-size-fits-all” about your line of work. Why should your vehicle build be any different?
When it comes to equipping work vans to get the job done right, nobody has more experience or know-how than Adrian. Every one of our bulkheads is designed and tested to keep going long after the others have called it a day. No gimmicks. Just partitions that work as hard as you.
Ready to upgrade? Contact your local Adrian distributor to learn more about available van partitions and build your custom upfit.