New-series Volvo FH for Arclid Transport

First Euro-6 Volvo tractor unit enters service with specialist bulk powder transport fleet operator

A NEW series 6x2 Volvo FH equipped with a lightweight pusher axle has entered service with Cheshire-based bulk powder hauliers Arclid Transport. Supplied by Thomas Hardie Commercials, of Middlewich, it is the first Euro-6 compliant Volvo to join Arclid’s 26-strong fleet.

The Globetrotter-cabbed tractor unit in its striking livery is the second new-series FH to join Arclid’s Sandbach-based fleet. The privately owned company specializes in the carriage of bulk powders, granular raw materials and minerals for general industrial use.

Competitive unladen weight is a key requirement of the Arclid Transport operation, according to the company’s transport manager, Peter Conway, who reports that the new FH tares out at 7.9 tonnes ‘as delivered’.

‘A number of incremental weight savings have been made by adjustments to the specification,’ he added. ‘For example, a fixed fifth wheel is fitted and there is only one bunk in the sleeper cab. Durabrite aluminium wheels also contribute to the competitive unladen weight.’

Mr Conway continued: ‘The 13-litre D13K engine, rated at 500hp, was specified for durability and also provides enough torque and power to effectively ‘future-proof’ the truck in the event of a legislated increase in the gross operating weight.’

The FH is equipped with Volvo’s I-Shift automated gearbox and a higher diff ratio was specified to reflect the amount of motorway running undertaken by the fleet and to save fuel.

The same driver will stay with the truck, which will remain coupled to one of the Spitzer or Feldbinder tanker trailers operated by Arclid Transport.

Maintenance is carried out overnight and at weekends by Thomas Hardie Commercials on a Volvo repair and maintenance contract.