With their tractor kits fitted by HARSH at their HQ outside York, AWSM’s latest four vehicles are top-spec Scania R560 6x2s in tag axle configuration. “In our operation, the tag layout offers multiple advantages” says Andrew.
“First, there’s no mid axle in front of the drive axle, which frees up lots of chassis space for the additional hydraulic equipment. Drivers also have more room for working behind the cab when swapping trailers and connecting / disconnecting the suzies. Second, being able to lift the rear axle greatly improves manoeuvrability and reversing as the effective wheelbase of the tractor is reduced. And as we can be required to work off-road in fields, lifting the rear axle puts greater weight on the drive for extra traction. For us, the tag axle layout is ideal.”
Most of AWSM’s work involves tankers, with the company having an impressive fleet of both vacuum tank semi-trailers as well as conventional vogelsang lobe pump models for moving and discharging slurry. Most unusually, the latest Dutch – built D-Tec tri-axle trailers offer front and rear steering capabilities on both their first and third axles which makes the whole vehicle a supremely manoeuvrable combination. “These trucks can get access to locations and loading points where others really struggle” says Andrew.
Typically collecting all types of liquid and near-liquid waste including ex-factory foods, animal feeds and various by – products, the HARSH tractor kits have to provide prolonged power to the tankers for extended, continuous running, often up to half an hour. Similarly, emptying out the slurry tanks onto land spreading operations also involves steady, un-interrupted operation. All of which makes lifting a standard bulk tipping semi-trailer look comparatively easy!
Based just off the A66 near Richmond and Scotch Corner, AWSM Farming Ltd provides a whole range of farming services and solutions including processing and supplying digestate, storage and spreading slurry, haulage, plant / equipment hire and recycling.
Founded in 1996, family – owned AWSM is one of the leading businesses in its field with a second depot in Cambridgeshire adding further to its footprint by providing easy access and support to the agricultural industry across East Anglia and Lincolnshire.
“Our trucks are as near to being state of the art as we can make them” concludes Andrew, “and although a small part of their overall specification, the HARSH tractor kits are absolutely crucial to their successful operation.”