HOW TO BUILD A BETE
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Marieting trailers as a pure le tical solution is not enough, Michael Convery: "Still that hands approach to the customer need be there." He is particularly prou the way that SDC bolds trailers h the ground up, and of the etticienc Its production process: "Because are in charge of the whole production process—as long as we get the right information—we are fairly accurate with our delivery times."
Every trailer Comes with a
detailed build sheet (accessible to shop floor and sales force alike) which details every aspect of Its construction, from chassis colour to pallet ins and fire-extinguisher holders. nips of parts are increasingly stanrdised and "Ititted" (put together by :ernsl suppliers) while standard nponents include a universal wiring m and LED lights.
The chassis are built using robotic ttine and welding techniques, which proves consistency and quality cond. The rest of the trailer Is built on a "flow line" system where trailers are moved from station to station overnight; each station is manned by a team of skilled specialists.
SDC offers a five-year paintwork warranty on the chassis and superstructure. The firm is working with ICI on its paint processes, recognising that these are the key to corrosion resistance. They supply the paint and we make them a major part of the process," says Convery. "But if you haven't got the vehicle properly prepared you're going to have a problem."
The pre-drilled chassis are passed through an automated bead-blasting facility, then kept in a controlled atmosphere before being painted. A two-pack system is used, applied using an HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray; SDC is also testing a more environment-friendly water-based ICI paint.