The trailers were selected to operate between Onyx Group’s Waldo Road transfer station and disposal sites across the South East, according to Operations Director John Batteson, after good experience with hired units.
“It is a large order for a new supplier,” says Mr Batteson, “but we did a lot of groundwork with BMI and got exactly what we wanted. They have been well able to cope with the evolution of the specification as the order has gone on, and BMI Managing Director Brendan McIlvanna has worked closely with us to ensure that all went well.”
The enhanced safety specification includes a unique lighting layout whereby not only marker lights but sidelights and indicators are replicated in clusters recessed 300mm from the top of the door. This higher location not only increases visibility on the road and on site, but also ensures that full light function is protected in a landfill environment. In addition, the design is optimised for strength and durability: The trailers’ most advanced safety feature is the use of the Knorr-Bremse TEBS system with roll stability module, which automatically applies selective braking force to reduce speed and lateral acceleration when it senses an imminent roll-over. These are Onyx Group’s first TEBS-equipped trailers.
Operating on drum-braked ROR axles and air suspension, the trailers are 12.8 metres in length with a capacity of 108yd3 and are designed for operation at 44 tonnes GCW. A full-width hydraulic sheeting system is fitted.