Wood supplier sources fuel efficient fleet

Acknowledging market driven changes to its operational requirements, Metsä Wood UK’s regional operations manager, Mike Gerrard says: “We now are seeing more frequent deliveries to our customers. They want smaller quantity deliveries but on a more frequent basis, so we have had to adjust our stocking and delivery operations here at Widnes to reflect these changes. With increased stock levels of finished product stored internally, we required side loaders that were environmentally friendlier, cleaner and more fuel efficient in operation, especially when working over longer shifts.”

By employing Baumann LPG powered side loaders, Metsä Wood UK found that the dust levels previously experienced when operating traditional diesel powered trucks within the enclosed finished goods area were significantly reduced, causing less damage to stock.

“These Baumann LPG trucks give us major environmental quality benefits, whilst also achieving significant long-term cost savings over their planned working life,” said Mike Gerrard, “At the same time, we have found that their overall working performance is extremely good and certainly a match for diesel powered trucks.”

When Metsä Wood UK first looked at introducing LPG powered sideloaders into its fleet, the company worked closely with Italian manufacturer Baumann, putting together a detailed original specification. The inherent nature of the finished goods storage building raised several health and safety issues and, in the final agreed side loader specification, Baumann was able to meet Metsä Wood UK’s requirements by adapting its standard LPG product offering, incorporating additional new design features.

Triplex masts, up to 5.7metres, were specified due to the low height access of the doorways, while Baumann devised an alarm system based on wheel movement and mast position, which activates if the mast is likely to strike an external access door frame.

Working with Metsä Wood UK, Baumann were able to deliver additional specifications on the LPG side loader. A larger, more spacious cab has been fitted to the 4tonne HX trucks, whilst more powerful LED head lights are now a standard fitment on the side loaders to facilitate rapid movements within the unlit internal storage areas. Each of the LPG Baumann side loaders is also fitted with a protective covering over the headlights to prevent any accidental damage within the confined spaces of the finished product storage areas.

Metsä Wood UK has 26 Baumann sideloaders at its four locations.