Tridem trucks are a relatively recent innovation. They are found on eight wheel rigids and describe the spacing of the axles where three axles are grouped at the rear of the truck – usually with one of them operating as a steer axle – although sometime both non-drive axles are used for steering. These trucks can replace either a standard 8×2 or 8×4 configuration and the major benefit apart from load distribution is the increased manoeuvrability the tridem layout can provide. Great for getting a 32-tonner into spaces that were once the sole domain of 18 and 26 tonners. Most truck manufacturers make a variety of tridem options. Other benefits include reduced tyre wear and a reduction in roll increasing safety. The double steer 8×2 tridem is a complex beast and will add weight to the chassis – so make sure you need the turning ability or can afford a payload reduction before buying one in the used market.
Interlink Scaffolding is saving time and restricting its labour costs after commissioning an eight-wheeled Mercedes-Benz Arocs with a highly unusual, demountable crane body. The operator, which is commonly known as ISL and currently celebrating its 20th anniversary, is based in Birtley, Tyne & Wear. Its new flagship arrived via local Dealer Bell Truck and Van. The Arocs Tridem Configuration The Arocs 3248 ENA has a single front steer axle and lifting, rear-steer axle, both of which are uprated to 9.0 tonnes and fitted with ‘super single’ tyres. The 12.8-litre engine’s 476 hp output is transmitted to the double-drive bogie via…
Volvo Trucks has supplied CEMEX with its first fully electric, zero exhaust emission heavy-duty concrete mixer. The battery electric truck marks the next step in the two companies global collaboration in deploying electromobility solutions. The Volvo FMX Electric will be operating at a ready-mix concrete plant in Spandau, Berlin, starting this month. With interest in fully electric heavy-duty transport increasing, Volvo Trucks and CEMEX are working to develop and scale the technologies needed to make emissions-free transport a reality in the demanding construction industry. Roger Alm, President, Volvo Trucks, says: “We are very happy to take this important step in…
When Best UK Transport needed another concrete mixer truck for work in and around London, owner-driver Andrei Balean returned without hesitation for a second eight-wheeled Mercedes-Benz Econic. “For this application there’s nothing to touch the Econic,” he said. “It combines the reliable, cost-effective performance for which Mercedes-Benz is renowned, with fantastic visibility from the low-entry cab.” Ilford-based Andrei acquired his latest vehicle from the Peterborough branch of Dealer Intercounty Truck & Van. It wears the colours of leading customer Hanson UK, and works from the concrete giant’s depot in Dagenham, Essex, delivering to construction sites throughout London. The Econic Specification…
FCH Construction Services are experts when it comes to a wide range of pipe laying works and this tough mission requires some seriously rugged vehicles. When a hardy self-sufficient tipper capable of carrying and loading heavy cargo in confined spaces was required it joined forces with IVECO dealer AM Phillip Trucktech and The Thompson Group to design and build what must be one of the most bespoke IVECO X-WAYs in the country. The IVECO X-WAY 8x4 Tridem (AD350X46ZY/PS OFF) with rear-wheel-steer features a rear mount bucket crane and two-way tipper body and is powered by the Cursor 11 460hp diesel…
For a company that usually builds houses it looks like their first attempt at building a truck body has gone well. That’s what Aberdeenshire-based Malcolm Allan Housebuilders has done in turning its hand to bodybuilding and assembled its own design of multi-functioning tipper and dropside body for its new Volvo FMX 460 8x4 Tridem with hydraulically steered rear lifting axle. The 32-tonner becomes one half of a two-strong fleet used for delivering building materials to sites across the city and county, before turning to muckaway duties on the return. It brings new levels of payload capacity and off-road ability to…