Supplied by dealer Thomas Hardie Commercials, the Stockport-based operator chose the vehicle to future-proof its fleet, according to Demplant’s Martin Mitchell.
“We needed to increase our maximum gross operating weight up from 80 tonnes as we are moving growing numbers of crushers and screens, as well as the road-rail and rail machinery, like the 13.2m Plasser & Theurer, Beaver 90/4ZW on-rail tamping machine operated by VolkerRail. The actual ballasted weight of this machine is 40 tonnes,” says Mitchell.
“We also particularly wanted four-bag, rear air-suspension on our latest 6x4 heavy haulage tractor unit as it gives a better ride for the machinery and for the driver compared to steel.”
Volvo, he adds, was the only manufacturer able to meet the exact spec and was “the most keenly priced”.
The FH16-650 is specified with a Globetrotter cab (with window in the rear panel to facilitate reversing), I-Shift automated transmission and Volvo’s Load Indicator, which features a dashboard display to allow the driver to monitor axle weights, including bogie loads, on the truck as well as the trailer.
The 26-tonne bogie’s drive axles feature hub-reduction and the front axle is rated at 10 tonnes at 30 mph when operating under STGO regulations.
The fifth wheel is a Jost JSK38 C1, which has a changeable jaw, enabling swaps between 2-inch and 3.5-inch trailer kingpins if required.
The vehicle is on a Volvo R&M contract, with maintenance and O licence inspections being carried out by the dealer on Wednesday mornings to meet Demplant’s work schedule requirements.