Safe Transport for £20,000 Loads
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A VANLOAD of Powers-Samas it't punched-card accounting machines is worth about £20,000. Each machine weighs up to 12 cwt. and is bulky and extremely delicate. The safe transport of this valuable equipment has presented many difficulties to Powers-Samas Accounting Machines, Ltd., Croydon, but they have been overcome in a new Austin 5-ton forward-control longwheelbase van with a Perkins P6 oil engine.
It incorporates the results of the experience with five similar vehicles of Mr. W. N. Sandy, transport manager of Powers-Samas. Glover, Webb and liversidge, Ltd., 5 Old Kent Road, London, S.E.1, built the body.
To prevent damage in transit, the packed accounting machines are lashed to the body sides and for this purpose tubular steel rails are fitted to each side.
Each machine is loaded on to a small trolley, which is drawn up a ramp to the Anthony hydraulic tailboard loader of the van. When the tailboard is elevated to floor level, the trolley is pushed into the vehicle. The van is normally manned by a driver only and the combination of trolleys, Anthony tailboard loader and ramp enables the machines to be unloaded single-handed.
Experience has shown that a substantial hardwood floor laid longitudinally best withstands the " point " load of the trolley wheels.
On the latest vehicle, the tailboard loader is housed flush with the rear doors and the exterior of the tailboard and the supporting mechanism are flush-panelled. The tailboard controls are recessed into the near-side body panel towards the rear and enclosed by a lockable, flush-fitting lid.
Large lockers in the side skirts accommodate Powers-Samas punched cards. The cab is integral with the body and the Luton compartment above it is available for further consignments of punched cards and for packing materials. " Kerb " windows in the forward side panels of the cab increase visibility for the driver. The body is 16 ft. 9 in. long, 6 ft. 6 in, wide and 6 ft. 8 in. high inside.
Not only has every assistance been given to the driver for loading and unloading, but attention has been paid to providing a comfortable cab affording good visibility.
The standard Austin fuel tank has been duplicated to give increased capacity for long-distance work. Powers-Samas operate 38 vehicles and, as far as possible, have standardized on Austins for heavier work.
L. F. Dove, Ltd., Croydon, supplied the chassis and Sir William Crawford and Partners, Ltd., were responsible for the colour scheme of dark green and light grey, with dark green lettering and a red motif.