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Bibby Distribution selects Vanhool for flexible tanker fleet

Tankers
Bibby Distribution is adding 18 new Vanhool tanker trailers, worth £1.2 million, to the 200-strong fleet – for its tanker division handling food ingredients.

The tankers were specified for ultimate flexibility by Bibby Distribution’s fleet technical team, and will initially be used to deliver glucose and starches to major confectionary brands.

“When we looked to take on new tankers, we wanted to make sure that what we got was the latest technology with the highest levels of flexibility and performance,” states Gayle Daubney, general manager for tankers at Bibby Distribution.

“Our custom specification means that not only can we serve our existing customers, but also transport almost any liquid food product across the country, quickly, safely and economically,” she adds.

Daubney points to the fact that each tanker incorporates both heating coils and refrigeration. She also explains that each tank has been manufactured with the lower third of the barrel wall thicker to increase strength and durability – particularly around leg and axle mounting points.

Bibby’s design also includes lifecycle cost-conscious features, such as high quality Johnson cargo pumps, a stainless steel chassis and advanced insulation.

Daubney says these will result in reduced tractor unit fuel consumption as well as lower maintenance requirements over the longer term.

Similar attention to detail has been applied to tanker safety aspects, with, for example, a series of brake interlocks preventing tankers from being driven away when venting or when the handrails are raised.

Meanwhile, the top of each tank is protected by a full-width walkway and enclosed handrails for safe topside operations, including maintenance and cleaning.

“We’ve several major national customers that have placed their trust in our capabilities for many years and we aim to not only maintain that level of service, but also provide other suppliers with a cost-effective and quality ingredient delivery service,” comments Daubney.

Each tanker trailer can carry up to 34,000 litres of products, including juice, milk or chocolate.

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