Supplied by David Hill, Customer Solutions Manager at Thomas Hardie Commercials Ltd, the new Volvo fleet consists of 31 FMX 8x4 rigids and one FH16 650 double drive tractor unit.
All the FMXs’ feature Volvo’s D11K 410hp Euro 6 engines and include I-Shift gearboxes with Volvo’s construction package software.
Rounding off the powertrain are single reduction, tandem 23-tonne drive axles with differential and cross locks. To reduce site dust levels, the extra-high chassis are fitted with horizontal-mounted diesel particulate filters and vertical SCR exhaust silencers.
“We chose to expand our fleet with Volvo trucks after conducting extensive trials and getting great feedback from multiple drivers. This, coupled with the strength of its local dealership, fuel economy and anticipated residual values were also attractive,” notes Dale Anderton, Transport Manager at D Morgan plc.
All the FMX chassis come with a new design of tipper body, manufactured by Boweld to suit D Morgan’s exacting requirements.
“Our new Boweld bodies have an extremely clean profile and no horizontal surfaces, which prevents the gathering of excess spoil,” reports Dave Dulohery, Fleet Engineering Director at D Morgan plc.
He adds, “The body’s side panels are constructed from ribbed 3mm Hardox steel for increased strength, with a tapered design which encourages clean expulsion of material, whilst the letter M- embossed into the rear tailgate is not purely decorative; it also gives the panel extra rigidity.”
The new Boweld body is also designed to maximise payload figures and the sloping rear tailgate doors come with automatic locking devices.
Dale Anderton notes that, “We’re taking the FMXs’ in staggered deliveries to ensure no disruption to our customer schedules. The vehicles now in service are performing well and have been very well received by our drivers.”
Safety is a top priority at D Morgan plc and the FMX tippers come with a comprehensive array of features designed to protect vulnerable road users.
All the FMX trucks are specified with Volvo’s factory fitted lower passenger door glazing that increases direct vision levels for the driver. In addition to the data from the FMXs’ Weighmaster on board weighing systems, images from a five-point and left turn camera system, all feed into the in-cab monitor, thus minimising driver distraction levels. Adding to the specification are Sidescan cycle safety systems and reversing alarms. Bespoke side protection guards, feature ten different themed designs paying tribute to the local areas and sectors the vehicles operate in.
“Our themed side protection guards are really eye-catching and we are already receiving positive comments about them,” Dale concludes.
Joining the FMX group, the sole Volvo FH16 650 6x4 tractor is plated for 150-tonne maximum weight operation.
This flagship vehicle moves D Morgan’s plant equipment across the UK and comes with a range topping Globetrotter XL Cab on a 3.4m wheelbase. Powered by Volvo’s D16K engine producing 650hp, the heavyweight’s powertrain also contains an I-Shift automated gearbox and T-Ride hub reduction tandem 32 tonne axles with a ratio of 3.76:1. Ordered with a Jost JSK38C cast iron fixed fifth wheel, the new FH16 650 hauls a four-axle Nooteboom step frame trailer.
- ENDS -
Notes for Editors :
- Denis Morgan - who gave his name to the company - was born in Rhosymedre, near Llangollen, North Wales and founded the company in 1950.
- Today, nearly 70 years later, D Morgan plc includes operating divisions with a range of specialist services.
