Search Results for: thermo

Waterline of Newport Pagnell has taken delivery of fifteen 12-tonne Volvo FL 4×2 rigids from Volvo Truck and Bus Centre London, Milton Keynes.

The vehicles are the company’s first Volvo trucks and are being used for the nationwide distribution of kitchen components from worktops and units to appliances and even lighting.

Group Logistics Manager, Matt Elborough says: “Driver and road-user safety, environmental impact, fuel economy, driver comfort, reliability, usability and network support were all identified as prerequisites when it came to renewing what is essentially over one third of our entire 40-strong fleet of trucks and vans.”

“In choosing the new trucks we started with a blank sheet and looked at all the options. Through this exhaustive process it was the Volvo FL that stood out as the only truck that met all of the criteria we’d defined at the outset. Needless to say, I think the Volvo iron mark on the front also does wonders for our corporate image, which is an added bonus,” he adds.

For overnight accommodation the new trucks’ day cabs are fitted with Super Sky Cab conversions by Hatcher Components of Framlingham, Suffolk and bodywork is in the form of ‘Cheetah’ fast back bodies from Cartwright Group of Altrincham for enhanced aerodynamic performance.

“We take the environment extremely seriously,” explains Matt. “Everything about these new trucks, from the fuel saving curved roof through the highly responsive and effective 6-speed overdrive I-Sync automated mechanical gearbox to the high torque at low revs 210hp engines is about efficiency and limiting our impact on the environment. This attention to detail has already been borne out in fuel figures that show we’re returning over 16mpg. This has really impressed.”

Running a low chassis frame height of 850mm above ground and with two bag rear air suspension, the new Volvo FLs have been specified with safety and comfort very much in mind. “The Hatcher conversion is the most comfortable for our drivers,” says Matt, adding, “Air suspended and heated driver seats with additional lumbar support continue that comfort theme into the cab and our drivers appreciate it. I am positive this investment has boosted their morale.”

When it comes to safety the new Volvo FLs are bristling with features and technology designed to put well-being to the fore. ”Driver safety is massively important to us as is that of vulnerable road users,” says Matt. To these ends, the new trucks are specified to FORS and CLOCS standards and include forward, rear and nearside facing cameras. Additionally, we have supplementary lights fitted in the steps on the driver’s side as well as additional lighting at the top of the box body to illuminate the loading area plus a Dhollandia tuck-away tail-lift. Furthermore, the box has been specifically tailored to precisely meet our needs in respect of safe loading and fixing.”

Dealer support from Volvo Truck and Bus Centre London at Tongwell in Milton Keynes has been pivotal in the realisation of the fleet renewal. ”The service from Tongwell has been excellent,” states Matt. ”The dealership really looked after our earlier non-Volvo trucks and I was keen to continue this relationship. Furthermore, when it came to specifying these new Volvo FLs, the dealer really helped us to arrive at something that is ideal for our needs. And with a 3-year Gold Repair & Maintenance contract I have confidence for the future.”

The SPE120XR, SPE120XRD and SWE120XR have joined the BT Staxio P- and W-series from Toyota Material Handling Europe. Equipped with retractable masts, a compact chassis and the ability to handle different types of pallets, the Japanese giant says these models are designed to save space and increase efficiency.

This unique range combines the compactness of a stacker with the flexibility of a reach truck. This results in a versatile solution that can handle any pallet type up to a height of 4.8 metres. The range consists of a pedestrian stacker (SWE120XR), a platform stacker (SPE120XR) and a double pallet handler (SPE120XRD). The short turning radius and the retractable mast make this solution ideal for working in narrow aisles, tight spaces and adaptable to a wide variety of environments, including cold store. The models can also be optionally fitted with a side-shift or fork positioner to increase productivity.

With all driver functions integrated in the handle (driving, lifting, lowering, reaching, tilting, side-shifting and fork positioning) the new models are very easy to operate. Optimised Truck Performance adjusts speed when cornering and the Totalview concept allows for excellent visibility through the mast to the fork tips at any height, offering safe driving conditions. The platform SPE-version with ‘one-touch’ foldable gates and in-height adjustable steering arm further improves driver ergonomics and productivity.

The new stacker range is also highly energy-efficient and available with Lithium-ion battery as an option. This battery technology is ideal for intensive operations thanks to a reduced energy consumption of up to 30%. Furthermore, Lithium-ion provides an exceptional battery life and the option for quick charging at any time – eliminating the need for battery change in multi-shift applications.

“Especially in narrow areas you will benefit from the flexibility, energy efficiency, user-friendliness and high vertical and horizontal performance of the new BT Staxio W- and P- models. These stacker trucks with retractable mast will help you save storage space and increase efficiency”, says Martin Mimer, Product Management Warehouse Trucks at Toyota Material Handling Europe.

The new BT Staxio SPE120XR(D) and SWE120XR will be one of the many products, solutions and technologies that Toyota Material Handling will be presenting during CeMAT 2016 (May 30th to June 3rd). Come and see us in Hanover at Pavilion 32.

Working in the sub-zero world of the cold store demands the highest standards of visibility, reliability and comfort. Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks has now developed a brand-new range of cold cabins for its SENSiA reach trucks, which the company says are tailored to work productively and reliably – even in temperatures as low as -35 degrees.

Like every product in the Mitsubishi cold store line-up, SENSiA cold store models have been specified with cold-resistant cabling and waterproofed electrics: protecting against damage from cold and moisture. While SENSiA’s thermostatically controlled heaters protect critical components, its hydraulics have been optimised to perform in the coldest of conditions.

Recognising a reach truck is only as productive as its operator, designers at Mitsubishi looked for ways to do more than keep operators warm in their cabins.

Developed for energy efficiency, each cabin is generously insulated and features a 1700 W heater to ensure the optimum working environment for each operator throughout the longest shifts.

Available on standard chassis reach trucks, cabins are spacious by design. Every element of the operator compartment has been specified to keep it uncluttered: from its intelligent fingertip controls to its folding steering wheel console.

Controls are kept within easy, avoiding unnecessary movement to reduce the risk of operator fatigue. For added control, every cold store model benefits from SENSiA’s intelligent SDS (Sensitive Drive System). Fitted as standard, SDS automatically tailors the truck’s performance to the specific needs of driver and load. As a result, it delivers smooth start and stop movements and agile, stable performance.

Visibility is paramount in any lifting operation. Like every SENSiA reach truck, cold store cabin models offer 360-degree visibility. The cabin’s heated side windows protect against frost, misting and condensation, ensuring exceptional visibility and safe, productive performance.

A clear-view, crash-proof polycarbonate roof – fitted as standard – means operators benefit from maximum upwards views, while being shielded from falling debris of any shape or size.

The cabin’s robust steel frame, which features a reinforced collision guard, offers added protection to operator, bodywork and door when working in tight spaces.

SENSiA is the latest addition to the Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks range of lift trucks dedicated to cold store applications. Other products in the range include VELiA, its low level order picker; electric counterbalance trucks, including the popular EDiA EM and its family of pallet trucks, PREMiA.

Roger Warnes Transport, the Norfolk (UK)-based bulk haulage specialist, has selected a package of TruTac fleet management software tools to ensure the highest level of compliance and efficient control of its 90-strong mixed vehicle fleet.

Operating throughout the UK from depots in Great Dunham and Kings Lynn, the company provides a diverse range of bulk transport services, using a mix of articulated and rigid tippers and walking-floor vehicles.

Following a recent due diligence review and as members of FORS (Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme) Roger Warnes Transport installed TruTac’s TruControl and TruLicence systems to manage tachograph analysis and driver licence checks – the combination of which provides the company with guaranteed compliance and helps to ensure best practice across the fleet.

For tachograph analysis, TruControl is a fully secure, web-based system which provides automated exception-based reporting across multiple depots. Reports can be prepared instantly and emailed to any transport manager or multiple users to suit any fleet size and it is fully compliant with the hour’s law and WTD (Working Time Directive).

To reduce administration and to help Roger Warnes Transport demonstrate a duty of care towards its drivers, TruLicence is an online checking and validation service which protects against employees driving without a valid licence. The unique application also guards against potential litigation in the event of accidents where a driver’s licence is found to be invalid.

Roger Warnes Transport is a VOSA-approved ATF (Authorised Testing Facility) incorporating a tachograph calibration centre and test facilities for HGV and PSV vehicles. The company is also a bulk storage specialist with the facility to store 20,000 tonnes of grain, oil seed and sugar beet pulp, using computerised stock control. Furthermore, automated grain sampling and temperature monitoring throughout, combine to achieve TASCC (Trade Assurance Scheme for Combinable Crops) standards.

Muller LCS, manufacturer of both innovative equipment and material load containment solutions has launched an economical solution for wrapping pallets with its new RaptorTM HPL high profile turntable stretch wrapper. The Raptor HPL is “an intuitive and reliable wrapper that has the additional benefits of having Muller’s popular branding tool, Logo WrapTM, and a roping device built in”. Logo Wrap, previously only available as an option for the Octopus line of ring stretch wrappers, will promote one’s brand on pallet loads, reduce tampering of product with its one-of-a-kind film, shield product visibility and can be applied anywhere on the load. In addition, Logo Wrap minimalizes waste and labor typically involved with hand-applied stickers and labels and maintains its durability by withstanding the outdoor elements. The roping device feature further ensures greater load containment by tying the load to the pallet.

The heavy-duty, semi-automatic machine, which can wrap up to 35 loads per hour, has an elevated turntable platform (ideal for high debris and harsh environments), intuitive controls and an easy-to-use interface. Furthermore, the patented strain gauge technology allows for electronic film feed and optimised handling on pallet load corners. The turntable also contains a lubrication free power pre-stretch carriage with variable pre-stretch levels from 100% to 300%, guaranteeing users optimal film usage while preventing film breaks and product damage.





Advanced logistics operator, Arcese, has chosen a tailor made loading bay solution, designed and installed by industry leader Thorworld Industries, for its new facility in Daventry (UK).

The Arcese Group, one of the leading private logistics operators in Europe, runs hubs throughout the UK and has recently expanded its operation with the acquisition of its new depot. The sizeable new premises, with its impressive specification of both yard and office space, was considered an ideal hub for Arcese, being in close proximity to three of its major clients. However the building, in its existing form, lacked a suitable loading ramp facility.

Keen to address the situation at speed Keith Luetchford, Director at Arcese, was integral to the decision-making process that would guarantee the installation of high quality loading bay equipment, expertly designed for the most effective performance. Keith wanted to make use of the premise’s existing external canopies, but preferred to avoid the cost of installing a permanent solution within a leased building. He was also looking for high quality and specific size specifications, as he goes on to explain:
“We knew we needed a loading bay of considerable quality, as any equipment installed would be in continuous use, facilitating extremely heavy loads for up to 18 hours a day. Precise size was also a key factor, as our requirements were for a loading system designed to fit within the existing external canopies. This, we understood, would necessitate a bespoke construction.

“To achieve this we had to find an expert manufacturer, so after conducting initial internet searches to explore the possibilities available to us, we invited Thorworld to visit our new premises and discuss the best options,” he adds.

The nature of Arcese’s business and the design of its building meant that any bespoke loading equipment needed to be semi-permanent to deliver the best overall solution. Planning permission was not necessary for the installation of this equipment, so Keith and the team agreed that ‘the right semi-permanent solution’ would enable Arcese’s new operation to be up and running in a relatively short time-frame.

Furthermore, by choosing a Thorworld’s modular solution, there was the flexibility to dismantle and relocate the equipment at the end of the building’s eight year lease, if necessary.

“A semi-permanent solution was entirely correct for our needs, furthering our positive opinion of Thorworld’s sales and engineering teams, whom we found extremely knowledgeable and professional,” confirms Keith.

“They listened to our needs and designed a solution, which not only provides the same service as a permanent/concrete loading bay, but is more cost effective. We were extremely impressed with Thorworld’s initial designs, with only a couple of tweaks needing to be made to create our perfect loading solution.”

Keith gave Thorworld the green light to proceed with manufacture; creating finished apparatus that features three dock levellers with a double width ramp for use on one side of Arcese’s premises, and a single dock leveller and single ramp for use on the other. With operator welfare a priority, the equipment also accommodates rear loading, considered safer than side loading, and features anti-slip surfaces for additional safety.

“We’ve been truly impressed with the design and quality of the loading solution. Thorworld’s entire approach, from design to implementation has been smooth, considerate, and professional,” concludes Keith.

Responding to Keith’s comments about his positive experience, John Meale, Managing Director at Thorworld Industries said: “A modular loading dock solution can deliver the exact function a business is looking for, but with the additional attributes of cost-effectiveness and flexibility, all without compromising on quality or safety standards.

“We’re delighted to hear that everything has gone to plan with the Arcese installation and that the project was achieved in time, and on budget,” adds John.

Swisslog Warehouse and Distribution Solutions, provider of best-in-class intralogistics solutions, has acquired Power Automation Systems (PAS), the world-wide market leader in pallet shuttle automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS). Now with offerings ranging from advanced robotics to fast case shuttles and pallet shuttles, together with KUKA, Swisslog “continues building the Automation Powerhouse chain offering clients compelling solutions”.

Christian Baur, Swisslog CEO of Warehouse and Distribution Solutions, stated “The acquisition of PAS allows Swisslog to expand our product portfolio and offerings with focus to the North American and APAC markets. As the leader in logistics automation, our goal was to offer our clients a new dimension of speed and storage density for pallet warehouses that handle a confined number of SKU’s with high volume, not only in the green field, but also for existing buildings.”

PAS and Swisslog customers will remain top priority throughout the acquisition and leadership change. “The combination of Swisslog and PAS will deliver benefits to our customers greater than the sum of our parts,” said Markus Schmidt, Senior Vice President, Swisslog Warehouse and Distribution Solutions Americas. Continued Schmidt, “Furthermore, Swisslog offers its world class service with our customer support team consisting of 24/7 help desk, remote system monitoring, on-site support, spare parts and system retrofit expansions, and modernizations, which will be of great benefit to PAS’s existing customers.”

Headquartered in Lathrop, CA, the PAS office will immediately serve as the Swisslog Americas West Coast location. In addition, the acquisition is designed to further develop and expand Swisslog’s reach in North America, South America, Asia, and Australia toward end of production line ASRS applications for fast moving goods with a maximum degree of customer satisfaction. “Swisslog and PAS have partnered in the past to provide top notch automation solutions for clients such as Coca-Cola and Sutter Home (Trinchero Family Estates). I am proud that we have attracted Swisslog, a company with a great reputation and global size, so that the PAS solutions can grow to their full potential and expand on the leadership we’ve created,” said Pat Mitchell, inventor, founder, and previous owner of PAS.

NXP Semiconductors N.V and DAF Trucks have successfully demonstrated self-driving technologies in automated trucks. The demonstration is part of the European Truck Platooning Challenge, an event organised by the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment, that has trucks driving in columns (platooning) on public roads from several European cities to the Netherlands. The challenge is designed to bring autonomous platooning one step closer to implementation by showcasing economic, traffic management and safety advantages. It also addresses the need for legislation and standardisation of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) across Europe, as current rules and regulations regarding speed and distance vary between countries.

Under the EcoTwin consortium, NXP, DAF, TNO and Ricardo joined forces to make this demonstration possible. The core of the ‘EcoTwin’ technology setup is a sophisticated vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications solution, RoadLINK, developed by NXP. It uses the wireless communications standard IEEE 802.11p combined with NXP radar technology to empower the trucks within the platoon to securely exchange information in real time and automatically brake and accelerate in response to the lead truck. The high speed of communication and responsiveness of NXP RoadLINK technology allows extremely tight distances and truly synchronous driving between the platooning DAF Trucks: To demonstrate autonomous acceleration and braking, the planned distance between the vehicles is slated for 0.5 seconds – which, when traveling at 80 kph (50 mph), translates to a distance of only 10 metres (30 feet). The responsiveness of the trailing truck within the platoon is estimated at 25 times faster than the average human reaction time of o ne second – saving critical time in case of emergency braking.

The RoadLINK communication system designed by NXP is built into the mirrors of the DAF Trucks participating in the platoon. The redundant NXP V2V system design with four secure channels ensures extremely reliable communication. In addition to providing the platooning commands, it provides real time video and bi-directional audio communication between the two vehicles. The audio allows the drivers to talk to each other without relying on other communication channels, such as cellular networks. Furthermore, the V2V powered camera in the lead truck streams what it “sees” to the driver in the trailing truck, providing a clear look at the road ahead.

“We’re honoured to be part of the European Truck Platooning Challenge as a key partner and provider of the secure vehicle-to-vehicle and radar technologies for the DAF trucks – DAF and other truck platoons will use our technology to complete their journey safely and effectively,” said Torsten Lehmann, senior vice president of Car Infotainment and Driver Assistance for NXP. “As a clear industry leader in driving adoption of Vehicle-to-X technologies, NXP is helping to improve fuel efficiency, emissions, safety, and traffic flow in the European Union, while avoiding accidents and saving lives.”

“It goes without saying that there is still a lot of continued development required before we can introduce platooning as a new technology on the market,” says Ron Borsboom, member of DAF Trucks’ Board of Management and responsible for product development. “This is definitely not a process that will be complete before 2020. There is still a great deal that has to be sorted out in terms of legislation, liability and acceptance. In conjunction with NXP, TNO, and Ricardo, we will be demonstrating during the European Truck Platooning Challenge that truck platooning is technically possible. This demonstration should pave the way for truck manufacturers to be allowed to carry out further testing of the technology on public roads in order to acquire even more experience. It is now up to politicians to make this possible.”