HW Martin boosts recycling drive with Mercedes-Benz Econic 03 August 2011

HW Martin Waste is reporting "spectacular increases" in recycling rates since drafting its first five Mercedes-Benz Econic refuse trucks into service for local authorities in Derbyshire.

"We have been delighted by the way that recycling material tonnage has shot up since the new system was introduced," states Phil Darwin, northern area operations manager for HW Martin Waste, which now provides a fully managed service for collection, sorting and recycling of all waste.

"In the first few weeks of operation we saw a 170% increase on one particularly challenging round, while the average across the whole project shows a 90% jump in recyclable tonnage. We are now moving 70% more material with fewer vehicles," he adds.

Supplied by East Midlands dealer Mertrux, the trucks are 6x2 Econic 2629LL 26-tonners, with mid-steer axles for optimum load distribution and ride quality.

Darwin explains that power comes from 290hp Euro 5 and EEV compliant engines matched to Allison six-speed automatic transmissions, while air suspension front and rear makes for quiet operations in urban areas.

He also points to the trucks' 70:30 split Heil Twintrack compactor bodies, which offer 22m3 volume capacities to reflect the fact that much of the waste carried is light but bulky. They are also fitted with triple Terberg Omnidel bin lifts.

"The Mercedes-Benz Econic is a premium product that offers excellent value for money," comments Darwin.

"The axle weighing system was key to its appeal, while we were also impressed with the safety benefits offered by the bus-style door and low-entry cab. The deep, panoramic screen allows the driver and crew to see more of what's going on around them, whether on the road, or on the pavement," he adds.

In a little detail, Mercedes' axle load indicator employs load sensors linked to the vehicle's individual airbags to monitor weight via the CANbus. This can then be viewed on the dashboard display as: individual axle, all axles showing all weights, or all axles plus total vehicle weight.

As for the Econic's door, it is wide-opening, air-assisted and forward-folding, which Darwin says is ideal in tight situations, where obstructions such as street furniture can make conventional doors a problem.

Occupant safety is also a benefit: for example, the door can only be opened while the vehicle is stationary, thus removing the temptation for crews to jump into or out of the cab.

Author
Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Mercedes-Benz UK Ltd

This material is protected by MA Business copyright
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.