Double body tankers for seasonal demands
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by Colin Barnett • Exel Logistics Tankfreight has devised an innovative solution to seasonal demands in milk and gas distribution by modifying a number of its rigid chassis to accept either milk or gas tank bodies.
Milk Marque's milk collection operation has peak demand during the spring and summer, while the LPG distribution industry is busiest in the winter.
Before now the vehicles had been underused in the low seasons but now the first vehicle, an Iveco Ford Cargo, has been modified by CIaytons Commercials to the "Swap Tank Concept". Five more, based on Scania and ERF chassis are being built. The modification includes mounting brackets to accommodate both types of body.
The end-of-season changeover means about two days in the workshop for each vehicle.
The system has the added advantage that, as the chassis are more intensively operated, their lifespan can be economically reduced allowing technological advances to be implemented more frequently.
The chassis are expected to have a life of up to five years, depending on mileage, while the bodies are designed to last for 15 years.
The design system allows the universal bodies to be fitted to whichever make of chassis is currently favoured. The intention is for most of Tankfreight's rigid tanker fleet to be built to this design.