The trailers commissioned by PML are being built and designed by Gray & Adams, a family-run business that specialises in the delivery of bespoke premium vehicles.
The new fleet will be built at Gray & Adams’ Fraserburgh site, while the Joloda power roller bed floor system will be manufactured in Anglesey, Wales.
Roller bed system
The power roller bed floor system was first developed 10 years ago and enables the automated loading/unloading of containers via a series of drive rollers that are built into the floor surface of the trailer.
The benefits of this system are that cargo can be loaded or unloaded without the input of personnel, making it easier to accurately control the speed of the discharge and therefore offering heightened safety.
Although they have been previously used in factories, the new PML trailers denote the first time this technology has been applied to a refrigerated trailer. In addition, the new trucks include electronic and pneumatic controls to complement the refrigerated environment, as well as the very latest fridge unit system, which produces less carbon emissions.
January 2020
It is estimated that the actual build of the six vehicles will take four weeks, with an estimated completion date of the end of January 2020. The trailers will be used by PML to carry air freight containers under strict temperature-controlled conditions. The contents of the containers will range from fresh produce, dairy, meat & fish, flowers & plants and pharmaceutical goods.
Robert Haynes, business development manager for PML, said: “As the leading force in the transfer of perishable goods sector, PML is committed to introducing pioneering new technologies to further enhance the standard of service to its customers.
“Our relationship with Gray & Adams dates back to five years ago when they were first identified as the preferred supplier to fulfil our requirement for air freight trailer manual loading equipment. Their reputation for innovation and the delivery of ground-breaking technological advances in their field made them the first choice for this project. PML has a busy year ahead with a number of exciting initiatives planned. The investment in new trucks is just the start, so watch this space.”