30.01.2020, 15:07
Extending the Service Life of Trucks
Melbourne based custom metal fabricator AA Diesel Truck Bodies is using a special grade of carbon steel to extend the life of wear plates it uses in tippers and trucks.
Since switching to Hardox 450 grade steel panels from Nordic and US steel company SSAB, the twenty year-old family concern is reporting a reduction of between 10 and 20 per cent in vehicle laden weights, and payload increases.
Company founder, Alija Siskovic, says:
“Hardox wear plate is good for everything – including welding, and our clients are pleased we are using it.
His son, Arnel, adds:
“We’ve experimented with various grades of steel supplied by SSAB including their 500 TUF product but have adopted Hardox 450 steel as our main material.”
“Although this particular grade of steel is more expensive than the company’s other grades, it easily adds a decade to the service life of steel vehicle bodies.
“Our customers recognised it’s worth paying a premium for extra longevity.”
Truck bodies made from the special grade of steel are also achieving higher secondhand values than many other trucks, prompting Arnel to add:
“Truck drivers now know to expect a quality body when they see the SSAB sticker.
“They know they’re getting the best.”
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