Abel launches Euroswop
Page 20
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
• Abel Demountable Systems has developed a range of swap bodies for European intermodal operations.
The Euroswop system, which is about to enter production, complies with the CEN (Comite Europeen de Normalisation) requirements on interchangeability and meets structural strength standards laid down by the International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC).
Abel is offering box container, curtainsider and tilt versions — all built to the CEN Class C 2.67m height limit. They are manufactured by its sister company, York Bodybuilders.
Also available is a dropside/tilt body which extends to 2.75m and is intended to take full advantage of the Continental 4.0m maximum height.
For operators who want to stay with their existing body suppliers.
the Euroswop baseframe, with its new design of sup port legs, twistlock sockets and lift contact areas, will accept proprietary bodywork.
A lighter, cheaper frame is available for use where the sidewalls and roof help strengthen the overall structure. Refrigerated versions in 2.5 and 2.6m widths from York Thermostar will also use a separate and lighter baseframe.
The Euroswop range includes body lengths of 7.15, 7.45 and 7.82m.
Features include grappler arm recesses in the side raves and two 90mm-deep longitudinal runners, set 600mm apart. These contact angled rollers on the truck or trailer chassis are to assist when remounting.
Where there is no chassis air suspension to provide lift for body swapping, the alignment rollers mount on to Abel's auxili ary pneumatic lifting packs.
Managing director Mike Tweddle believes that the shortest version — which will be first into production at Abel's Chesterfield plant — will be the most popular.
As intermodat traffic increases across Europe in the run-up to 1993, Euroswop production will grow to meet an anticipated growth in demand.
Tweddle predicts that much of the competition for CEN-standard swap body sales will come from Continental manufacturers, but he is optimistic about Abel's pan-European prospects, helped by 25 years' experience in the UK swap body business.