One of the most common questions chiefs, officers and firefighters have when beginning the apparatus spec process is, “What type of material should I have the apparatus built with?”
There are a few choices, such as aluminum, stainless steel, galvanneal, and the new polybodies.
So, you really have to do some research to get a better understanding of what type of material to build with.
The majority of the big manufacturers build cabs out of aluminum, and the body is left to your choice, with the exception of Seagrave, which builds its cabs with stainless steel. Some manufacturers will only build with one type of material.
When trying to decide, look around your area and see what other fire departments have spec-ed and what their likes and dislikes were. Also, check what is holding up in terms of strength and what seems to succumb to rust. Don’t just look at recent deliveries, but at vehicles that have been in service for five to 10 years.
If you are new to this process, the most important thing you can do is to actually visit several manufacturers to see the material being used, the thickness of the material, and how the vehicles are constructed.
Some build the bodies in one piece, while others build compartments as modules and then bolt them together. Look at welding methods, structures, supports, paint; basically, everything that you think will make a difference when your vehicle is built. Every manufacturer will tell you that their way of building is the best — but it’s you who must make the ultimate decision.
Service period
How long you decide to place your vehicle in service might also be a deciding factor. For instance, if your apparatus service life is 15-20 years, then you might want to go with a stronger material.
There are advantages and disadvantages to all types of construction. Some have higher costs, some are better in the area of corrosion resistances, and some are better with strength to weight ratios.
Only you can make the determination of what you want. Cost could also become another factor — your budget might dictate what material you can build with. But remember, finances shouldn’t be a factor when it comes to the safety of your firefighters riding in the vehicle.
It is vital to ensure the weight of the vehicle can handle the tools and equipment you are carrying on it. It’s no good going to a manufacturer and designing a vehicle for a certain purpose, and then a few years down the road overloading it with equipment and making it top heavy. By doing this you are playing with the GVW. We have enough firefighters getting injured and killed responding to alarms. We don’t need any more accidents, especially due to overweight apparatus rolling over.
Full details
You should work with the apparatus engineers at the manufacturer, and tell them what the vehicle will be used for now and in the future. Also, look at NFPA 1901, which you should have a copy of already on file before you even start writing your specs. There is a worksheet In Annex C for determining equipment weight on fire apparatus. It is an excellent tool for determining the weight of everything you plan on carrying on your apparatus before it is built.
I have visited the majority of the apparatus manufacturers out there, both big and small. Each time I visit one, even I learn something new.
Another question that also often comes up from chiefs, officers and firefighters is, “Should we spend the money to visit the factory while our vehicle is being built?” The answer is an unequivocal yes.
Make two to three trips if possible if you can afford it, and double check the materials used and construction methods while you are there. I am not saying any manufacturer will cheat you, but mistakes can be made. It is a lot better to find this out when you are doing an inspection at the factory than when you take delivery.
With the current costs of fire apparatus spiraling, purchases are now a major investment so it’s vital you do your research.
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