Murphy has taken delivery of the first of six new Mercedes-Benz Arocs with low-profile plant bodies from Andover Trailers.
All six are bespoke-built, low-profile plant bodies mounted to new 32-tonne 8x2 Arocs chassis. Four units also have front-mounted PK63002E Palfinger crane and there are also four tri-axle heavy duty drawbar trailers.
The new trucks and trailers have been chosen for their versatile loading options and the significant increase in payload capacity they offer.
Mark Olden, logistics manager at Murphy says: “Andover Trailers listened to our requirements and provided high-spec solutions to deliver exactly what we needed. We chose Andover for the versatility and range of their drawbar combinations and are very pleased with the quality of the workmanship on the builds we have received so far.”
The six plant bodies replace older units, while the four drawbars are new additions to the company’s 40-strong mixed fleet.
Each of the new plant bodies includes a hydraulic beavertail, underslung coupling and fold-forward ramps which provide a flat load bed for maximum deck space on the truck and trailer.
When folded, the ramps also reduced wind resistance for improved fuel consumption and allow the plant body to be through-loaded via the trailer without having to uncouple.
The four front-mounted Palfinger cranes have a 2,950kg lift capacity at 15.7m reach. The trucks, plant bodies and trailers have also been designed to meet the three-star rating for London’s Direct Vision Standard, including camera systems and audible turning alerts with a telescopic working at height system for operator safety.
The new units will operate out of Murphy’s Hemel Hempstead and Ollerton plant depots. They are expected to be on the road for five to six days per week supplying plant to sites across the UK.
