Schmitz Cargobull delivers efficiencies with new trailers
In the face of an economic downturn that has seen the trailer market reduced by 75% for refrigerated units and 90% for curtainsider, Schmitz Cargobull is bullish about the future, thanks in part to its range of trailers with low running costs.
Schmitz Cargobull new Fixed Roof Curtainsider has new galvanised steel cassette roof configuration, which is lighter, forms its own cross-member support structure and allows for easier repair by simply replacing individual cassettes, rather than patching. As aluminium costs are rising, using steel also helps keep pricing competitive.
The same modular galvanised steel technology is also being employed for a new Rigid Refrigerated Box Trailer, compatible with all makes of chassis and available as 14, 18 and 26 tonne. Known as the MKO Rigid it features Ferroplast panels to eliminate the possibility of delaminating of laminates, along with a wide range of options.
Production savings of around 30% are expected from the new assembly line process. The Multi Production System is a flexible assembly line where all types of trailer including Freepost and Fixed Roof Curtainsiders, Reefers, Rigid Truck Body, Euroliner and Dry Freight Trailers, can be built simultaneously. It also allows faster production switches, minimising downtime.
To measure the efficiency Schmitz Cargobull are using the German system of TAKT time, the plant previously had a TAKT time of 55 minutes - or 8 units per day, and are targeting an improvement to 44 minutes TAKT time which will increase production by 2 units per day. In addition introduction of a second or third shift per day will enable Schmitz Cargobull to respond when demand increases.
Enhanced production systems and new technology, such as these introduced by Schmitz Cargobull, provide cost efficiencies in trailer production and more efficient trailers for operators looking to replace or increase trailer fleets. Operators can also look to optimise the efficiency of existing trailer fleets with specialised Trailer Management Systems. Axscend customers using GPS Trailer Tracking achieve efficiency through visibility, reporting at least 15% increase in utilisation and 8% reduction in fleet size.
