Sentinel Systems developed patented radar reversing safety systems after statistics showed that reversing accounts for nearly one-in-four deaths involving vehicles at work. The system limits risk from legal claims for death or serious injury, or damage to property caused by reversing vehicles. A radar sensor is fitted to the rear of the tanker. When reverse gear is engaged this sensor searches for hazards.  If a hazard is detected the system automatically applies the brakes if the vehicle gets too close to the hazard. The full brake application is available via the parking brake airline or directly with the EBS system. A passive non-braking system is also available where a visual and audible warning is provided to the driver on detection of the hazard. This can be combined with the auto-braking system. Walker Municipal Services based inDublinhas been appointed as sole agent for the system inIreland. Andrew Holder, marketing manager for Sentinel Systems said: “It is easy for tanker drivers to get distracted while reversing and accidents can occur. With this system if an obstacle is detected brakes are automatically applied and damage and serious injury are avoided. Tanker operators can save thousands on legal claims.” Over the past 20 years, over 3,000 vehicles have benefited from these radar auto-braking systems. Sentinel Systems offers its own on-site installation service or training Sentinel Systems Ltd are so confident in the quality of their `reverse with radar’ system they are pleased to offer a free no-obligation trial. For more information visit www.radarreversingsystems.co.uk.

TomTom has passed the 200,000 milestone for vehicles managed in its online fleet management system, Webfleet, optimising road operations for more than 16,500 businesses.

A new automatic vehicle recognition system (AVR) has been launched by Cameron Forecourt, which instantly identifies vehicles at the refuelling point. The system uses a tag with a unique code which is attached on or near the vehicle fuel filler to communicate with a transponder mounted inside the fuel nozzle. Information is then passed to the fuel island controller via a radio link, which allows fuelling to commence once a positive ID is received. The German-engineered DervPoint system has been proven in use throughout Europe and is now available in theUKthrough Cameron Forecourt. The system means the driver does not have to enter data into the fuel island terminal, saving valuable time, and the need for a positive ID removes the risk of “ghost” vehicles or containers being filled illegally. Because the ID media and the reader are permanent fixtures on the vehicle and in the fuel nozzle head, the risk of loss or misuse is less than with other types of access devices such as smart cards or keys. The same system can also provide mileage or hours-run information to an additional unit placed in the can, which is powered by the vehicle. “This system takes away the risk of human error or misuse. Unless the unique ID is successfully registered it will not allow fuel to be drawn and it only allows fuelling while the nozzle is in the neck of the tank,” said Martyn Gent, Cameron Forecourt sales and marketing director. www.cameron-forecourt.co.uk

Brigade Electronics has launched a finance lease rental scheme aimed at medium to large truck fleets, in response to the growing number of operators struggling with rising costs and the reluctance of banks to lend money in the current economic climate. With increasing demands placed on contractors to fit vehicle safety devices – including side and rear view camera monitor systems, side sensors, reversing alarms and mobile digital recording systems – initial outlay can be high. Spreading the cost, says the company, can create cash flow benefits and demonstrates a return on investment from day one. Philip Hanson-Abbott, managing director of Brigade Electronics, said: “The payment plan increases customer choice and flexibility, enabling operators to improve safety and efficiency without compromising on quality. We understand the problems operators are facing and are continuously looking for ways to improve our offerings.” Brigade’s finance lease rental scheme is underwritten by Syscap Ltd.       www.brigade-electronics.com

New sliding vane pump from Blackmer Blackmer has announced the availability of the STX2A-DEF Sliding Vane Pump, designed specifically for the transfer of AdBlue. As a result of the 2006 European Euro IV emission-control regulations that limited the amount of nitrogen oxide that diesel-powered vehicles can emit, most new European diesel vehicles feature a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system. AdBlue’s corrosive properties make it incompatible with a wide array of metals, such as carbon steel, copper, zinc, lead and aluminum, or any plastics or metals coated with nickel. If AdBlue is used with any of these materials, trace levels may be found in the fluid, rendering it unusable. In fact, vehicles that use contaminated AdBlue can be susceptible to severe engine and SCR system damage. The new pumps have been designed with 316 stainless steel, which allows them to meet the ISO 22241 material and cleanliness standards that are required for AdBlue-handling applications. They also provide the lower flow rates end-users require—from 60 to 227 lpm (15 to 60 gpm), and push rods for slower pump speeds from 350 to 780 RPM. There is an internal adjustable relief valve and three drain ports which allow draining in any mounting position. For more information visit www.blackmer.com.

New generation of Apollo oil tank alarms announced by Dunraven Systems Dunraven Systems has announced significant new additions to the Apollo range of storage tank monitoring and telemetry equipment. GRPS and broadband technology options have been integrated into the existing remote tank monitoring system, Apollo RMS. Used by an ever-increasing number of fuel distributors throughout theUKandIreland, Apollo RMS allows distributors to remotely monitor customers’ tanks, which is proven to assist in reducing fuel delivery costs. “The introduction of GPRS and broadband options makes a great product even better. They provide even greater flexibility to fuel distributors seeking to minimise distribution overheads, whilst increasing bottom line profitability,” explains Dunraven managing director, Gerry Jones. The new GPRS option uses a sensor to monitor the level of fuel inside the tank and relays this information to a modem positioned inside the customer’s home or office. The modem then relays this data to the customer’s preferred fuel distributor at predetermined intervals. Complementing Apollo RMS, is a new generation of oil tank alarms, which will be available from Dunraven before the end of this year. “In response to customer demand, we’ve developed and will shortly be launching a new family of anti-theft alarms. Designed primarily for installation on to heating oil and diesel tanks, the new range will comprise both remotely monitored and stand alone product options, providing consumers and tank installers with a choice – not a compromise,” says Gerry. For more information visit www.dunravensystems.com

Interest in MabaLIVE – Mabanaft’s free online price information and fuel ordering service – has been “impressive” according to the company, with “extremely positive” feedback. After just 12 months, users of the service – launched at last year’s FPS EXPO – have reported that, even in today’s volatile market conditions, it makes the process of purchasing fuel quick and easy.Favourable comments “Regular updates and current prices help our business to make the right purchase at the right time,” says Bryan Inkson of Gleaner. “With prices changing all the time, it is useful to have a constant monitor on what is happening,” adds Robin Exley of Rix Spalding.

Collision-avoidance technologies should be made mandatory for all UK trucks and buses by 2015, according to a new report published by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IME). HGVs make up 5% of the traffic on Britain’s roads, yet cause 20% of all fatal accidents involving cyclists. Making collision avoidance technologies mandatory for all large vehicles to prevent driver ‘blind-spots’, could make the roads safer for millions of cyclists, says the IME. Philippa Oldham, head of transport at the IME, said: “The alarming rise in cyclist deaths on British roads needs to be addressed urgently. Cyclist deaths have risen by 7% in the past year. A number of these deaths could be prevented if technology to prevent driver ‘blind spots’ were made mandatory for all large vehicles. New intelligent transport technologies have the potential to save thousands of lives.” The IME report also looks at several other “intelligent transport systems” which could make travel safer and more efficient. These include a lane guide system which uses lasers or infrared sensors to monitor the vehicle’s lane and alerts the driver if he/she unintentionally begins to wander out of lane; pedestrian protection through sensors in the front bumper area; and a vibrating steering wheel which notifies drivers of possible collisions, lane departures or drowsiness. The full report can be downloaded from: http://www.imeche.org/Libraries/Knowledge/ IMechE_Intelligent_Transport_Intelligent_Society.sflb.ashx  

Fuel Oil News launches new webinar service with Kan’to’s real time tank gauging