Project Description
WH Bence, a leader in specialized vehicle manufacturing, has recently expanded its support for Northumberland Fire & Rescue with the production of six additional fire appliances under the original tender agreement. These new units reflect WH Bence’s commitment to high-performance design, customization, and practical innovation, meeting the evolving needs of fire and rescue operations with reliability and efficiency.
At the heart of these appliances is the Volvo FL 280 4×2 14-tonne cab chassis. Renowned for its durability and robustness, this chassis serves as an ideal foundation, providing a reliable platform that seamlessly integrates with Northumberland’s operational demands. WH Bence has paired this high-performance chassis with the Godiva 3010 P2A Prima water and foam system, a dependable pump capable of supporting rigorous firefighting efforts. The integration of this system ensures that each appliance can deliver powerful, steady water flow when it matters most.
“Equipped with advanced technology and tailored features, these new appliances are designed to enhance firefighting capabilities and ensure community safety.”
At the heart of these appliances is the Volvo FL 280 4×2 14-tonne cab chassis. Renowned for its durability and robustness, this chassis serves as an ideal foundation, providing a reliable platform that seamlessly integrates with Northumberland’s operational demands. WH Bence has paired this high-performance chassis with the Godiva 3010 P2A Prima water and foam system, a dependable pump capable of supporting rigorous firefighting efforts. The integration of this system ensures that each appliance can deliver powerful, steady water flow when it matters most.
Key points
Project Highlights
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Customisation within Strict Specifications
The team had to integrate high-capacity water systems without compromising vehicle stability or safety.
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Environmental Resistance and Material Durability
The choice of an anti-corrosive co-polymer material was essential, but working with this material posed challenges in ensuring durability, flexibility, and optimal tank integration.
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Advanced Pump Control Integration
The team had to ensure that pre-set pressures, emergency stop functions, and data tracking could function without delay or error under real-world conditions.
A Durable and Flexible Rear Body Design
In addition to powerful pumping capabilities, the rear body of each appliance has been engineered with an anti-corrosive co-polymer construction. This material choice offers excellent resistance to wear and tear, ensuring a long service life even under harsh environmental conditions. The rear body also includes an 1800-litre integrated water tank, which provides ample capacity for both routine firefighting tasks and prolonged incidents.
Storage on these vehicles has been designed with adaptability in mind. Weather-proof, adjustable stowage compartments with multiple shelving options give the Brigade flexibility in configuring equipment storage to meet their current and future needs. This modular approach to storage means that Northumberland Fire & Rescue can adapt their vehicles over time, ensuring that new equipment and tools can be easily accommodated as operational requirements evolve.
Intuitive Pump Control Technology
Incorporating advanced technology, each appliance features the WH Bence electronic pump control screen. This interface allows operators to manage pump pressures with pre-set options for both high- and low-pressure scenarios, ensuring accuracy and ease of use in the field. Safety and efficiency are built into every aspect of this system, including an emergency stop function and a tracking feature that records both pump hours and total water usage. This data not only supports maintenance schedules but also provides valuable insight into operational demands over time.
The six new appliances reflect a strong partnership between WH Bence and Northumberland Fire & Rescue, with every design decision aimed at enhancing safety, efficiency, and operational flexibility. By combining high-quality materials, thoughtful storage solutions, and intuitive technology, WH Bence continues to deliver vehicles that empower Northumberland’s firefighters with the tools they need to protect their communities effectively.
