Supplied by dealer Dennison Commercials, the new additions are 3,900mm wheelbase FMX 6x6 rigids, powered by the D13K engine rated at 415bhp and driving through I-Shift automated gearboxes.
Rear hub reduction axles complete the powertrain assembly for the Day Cab rigids, which both carry platform bodies by C-Tec (Commercial Vehicle Engineering).
To achieve maximum ground clearance, the rigids were specified with the XX-High B-ride chassis, giving 1,150mm between the axles and road level.
The all-steel suspended chassis design includes a ten-tonne front axle cushioned by uprated triple leaf parabolic springs.
Alwyn McCreanor, company administrator at Irish Salt Mining, says: “We looked at several different truck marques before ordering the Volvos. I was impressed from the outset with Volvo’s build quality, while the ground clearance figures seemed perfect for the hard surfaces and uneven terrain that characterise our mine operations.
“In the past we’d used ex-military vehicles that were converted for our operations, but it’s safe to say that our drivers love the new Volvos.”
The FMXs will not accrue a high mileage and, for extra safety, the trucks are fitted with under cab fire suppression units, extra shielding around the turbochargers and a double pole insulator.