Logistics with lift.

On the occasional trips outside the Glen Dimplex plant in Kulmbach, the new Econic from Braun Trans attracts attention. To uninformed observers it almost looks as if the containers are floating above the loading area. The reason for the unusual sight: the Mercedes‑Benz is transporting swap bodies with their support legs still extended.

The reason for acquiring the hydraulic swap-body loading system is Glen Dimplex's sophisticated production logistics at its Upper Franconia site. For the smooth manufacture of climate system technology, the required components are delivered directly to the production areas in swap bodies and via loading ramps. By the same route, intermediate products are later moved on for further processing and the finished products to shipping.

Folding and unfolding the support legs of the swap bodies would take a great deal of time during the countless in-plant transports — and therefore incur costs. For that reason the company, together with its transport service provider Braun Trans, looked for a vehicle solution that would render these steps obsolete.

Another requirement in Braun Trans's specification: approval for use on public roads. Although the majority of journeys between the production units take place on the plant site, the new vehicle will still have to cover short distances on public roads from time to time.

The Franconians found what they were looking for at Mercedes‑Benz. As a vehicle basis the Econic 1827 L 4x2 with an 18-ton chassis and a 5.70 m wheelbase was particularly impressive thanks to its low-entry cab. After all, on the short runs around the factory premises drivers have to get in and out around 30 to 40 times per shift. The low step-in height makes this more comfortable, faster and — even more importantly — with a lower risk of injury than with conventional transport vehicles.

Panoramic glazing, the mirror system and the standard driver assistance systems, including Active Brake Assist 5 and Lane Keeping Assist, provide additional safety.

The decision-makers at Braun Trans were also convinced by the Econic’s high availability. As a special-purpose vehicle, the new acquisition was intended to occupy a key position in the internal supply chain and to be used in a two-shift operation. With its low downtime, the Econic can keep up with this workload.

The same applies to the good service provided by Auto-Scholz GmbH & Co. KG. The long-standing partner of Braun Trans has often demonstrated in the past how quickly it responds — and in emergencies also at night and on weekends.

In addition to the vehicle, Braun Trans also showed the right instinct when searching for the appropriate body. In Mainleus, very close to their customer Glen Dimplex, they became aware of the company Hofmann Fahrzeugbau. As a specialist in special vehicles and bodywork, the company can draw on decades of experience and expertise in swap-body systems.

Accordingly, the complete product was convincing both in terms of performance and safety: four hydraulic cylinders provide 16 t of lifting capacity for 500 mm of travel. Thanks to an engine-driven power take-off, the system can be used while on the move, saving time. The structure is protected by four profile elements that provide the necessary stability. After all, the swap-body underframe sits a full 1.5 m above the roadway.

The cargo is secured by a container locking device. It is also hydraulically operated and can be monitored at any time via a display in the cab. Because of the high centre of gravity and the forces associated with it, the speed of the Econic is limited to 25 km/h. In addition, a camera system for reversing and container loading provides extra safety when manoeuvring. The driver has everything in view at all times on the monitor in the cab. Underrun protection, area lighting and rotating beacons complete the safety concept of the swap-body system.

The concept left nothing to be desired for either Braun Trans or their client. And rightly so, as became evident after delivery: the Econic as the vehicle base together with Hofmann Aufbau form a perfect unit from which the Glen Dimplex production in Kulmbach will benefit for many years to come.