CDL Tanker Endorsement Practice Exam

How would you expect a truck with a cargo tank that has baffles to handle on the road?

1. It will sway more than a tanker without baffles

2. It will have less front to back surge

3. It will be harder to control in turns

4. It will become unstable during acceleration

The correct answer is: It will have less front to back surge

A cargo tank with baffles is designed to reduce the movement of liquid within the tank. By having partitions or baffles, the liquid is prevented from surging forward and backward as quickly when the vehicle accelerates or decelerates. This design minimizes the front-to-back surge effect that can cause instability while driving. As the truck moves, baffles help to disrupt the flow of liquid, which dampens the movement and keeps the center of gravity more stable. This leads to better overall handling, especially during braking and acceleration, as the forces acting on the vehicle are more evenly distributed. The stabilizing effect provided by the baffles allows for improved safety and control, particularly during normal driving conditions. Understanding how baffles work helps in recognizing their crucial role in maintaining stability and control, making them beneficial for managing the dynamics of tanker vehicles on the road.