Biomass fuel supplier AMP Clean Energy has put two new Volvo FM 8×2 Tridem 32-tonne rigids into operation, which are fitted with the first UK-supplied Transmanut 31 cubic metre bulk transport bodies featuring dust extraction equipment.
The 5.1m wheelbase FM’s are powered by Volvo’s D13K engine producing 420hp and feature I-Shift gearboxes and Globetrotter Cabs with front steel and rear air suspension systems. The trucks are based at AMP Clean Energy’s Berkshire and Cumbria depots to deliver wood pellets.
In addition, the Volvo FM tankers are the first in the UK to feature on-board screening to reduce dust issues and are part of an ongoing programme of customer service improvements at AMP Clean Energy. The non-tipping bodies use a pneumatic delivery system and can access a wider range of customer premises than equivalent raised body vehicles. Dust extraction is key to correct wood pellet burning in biomass boiler systems and the new Volvos’ permit AMP to double-screen pellets before customer delivery; once in the firm’s storage facility and additionally on-board the Transmanut tankers prior to delivery.
The rigids were also specified with an automatic sheeting system, so there is no need for the driver to work at height when loading. Additionally, Moba Class 3 ‘Charge by Weight,’ systems are used to validate each delivery of pellets.
These trucks add to another six Volvos that AMP Clean Energy has bought recently. It now operates a fleet of 35 rigids and three articulated combinations, all on biomass fuel deliveries.
Justin Fisher, sales director at Stuarts Truck and Bus, supplied the chassis to AMP Clean Energy.
Tony Vick, logistics director at AMP Clean Energy, said: “These new state-of-the-art Volvo trucks have the ability to completely transform the way we can distribute, deliver and manage the quality of our wood pellets. We’re delighted to be the first to bring these vehicles to the UK market, and continue to enhance the customer experience.”
