Walsall's side-loader system from Ray Smith Demounts
Page 16
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
THE METROPOLITAN Borough of Walsall is pioneering the use of a lorrymounted container handling system.
The Side Loader produced by Ray Smith Demountables enables the driver to lift a standard 20ft ISO container from ground to platform and set it down again in only a few minutes.
Hydraulically folding arms, mounted transversely at the front and rear of the 16 tonncr's rigid chassis, lift the containers from its base with chains.
Stabilising legs extend automatically to serve as cantilevers during lifting and lowering.
A swing boom control module allows the driver to move from one side to the other as he operates the system. The lifting equipment, itself demountable, provides the vehicle with greater versatility. Quick release couplings allow the chassis mounted hydraulic pump to be used to power a front end rain where the chassis is alternatively fitted with a tipping body.
Walsall has 75 containers which it uses to deliver materials and equipment to housing sites.
The Side Loader priced at £17,000 reduces the time to prepare the vehicle for a change of use from five hours to less than one.