Rokbak creates eco-friendly machinery

Rokbak, a prominent manufacturer of off-highway articulated haulers utilized in mining, quarrying, and construction operations across the globe, is a proud member of the Volvo Group. The company is fervently dedicated to minimizing its ecological impact, with its sustainability objectives reflecting a strong commitment to environmental stewardship within the heavy machinery industry. In alignment with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) as a subsidiary of the Volvo Group, Rokbak has set specific targets. These include a substantial 30% reduction in CO₂ emissions by the year 2030, a remarkable 50% reduction in emissions from factory operations by the same year, and the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040. These objectives have left an indelible mark on the design of Rokbak's haulers, the day-to-day operations at the Rokbak Motherwell factory, and a resolute adherence to the Rokbak sustainability roadmap.

In their pursuit of environmental impact reduction, Rokbak has employed an array of strategies, encompassing in-depth fuel consumption analysis, exploration of alternative fuels, extended maintenance cycles, and a reduction in maintenance consumables. Notably, these endeavours in sustainability have not only benefited the environment but also resulted in a decreased total cost of ownership (TCO) for Rokbak's esteemed customers.

A significant portion of a machine's operational expenses is attributed to fuel consumption. Rokbak's RA30 and RA40 EU Stage V engines have demonstrated a remarkable up to 7% reduction in fuel usage compared to their older EU Stage IV counterparts. This translates to a dual advantage of diminished environmental impact and reduced operational costs. The fuel-efficient engines, combined with Rokbak's articulated transporters, contribute to these remarkable savings. The RA40, for instance, boasts an impressive 6,000 hours between gearbox fluid changes, while the RA30 achieves a remarkable 4,000 hours.

Rokbak offers customers the option of using hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) as a fuel source, providing an opportunity to make rapid progress towards their net-zero emission goals. HVO, derived from various vegetable oils (including waste cooking oil, rapeseed oil, palm oil, and others) or animal fats, is often referred to as 'Renewable Diesel' or 'Green Diesel.' Although HVO shares several characteristics with traditional diesel, its unique composition, low carbon content, and sustainability appeal make it a cutting-edge choice for those seeking an eco-friendly fuel alternative. Importantly, HVO production retains the key benefits of conventional diesel without compromising logistics, engine performance, exhaust after-treatment systems, or emission standards. In a comprehensive well-to-wheel analysis, HVO has been found to reduce CO2 emissions by an impressive margin of up to 90%. By extending intervals between routine maintenance, and reducing the need for frequent fluid and part replacements, Rokbak contributes to a reduction in waste sent to landfills. Customers are empowered to stay informed about their vehicle's condition through maintenance and malfunction notifications, ensuring that servicing occurs precisely when necessary. This streamlined approach not only enhances sustainability efforts but also bolsters operational efficiency by allowing for advanced component procurement and efficient workforce management.

A testament to Rokbak's commitment to sustainable practices is their complete transition to green energy to power their plant. In addition, their dedication to waste reduction is evident in their impressive achievement of diverting 95% of their produced waste away from landfills, marking a significant stride toward accreditation for a zero-waste-to-landfill policy.

“When the customer buys a Rokbak hauler, they are acquiring a hauler that has been developed with sustainability in mind,” said Charlie Urquhart, Rokbak's product manager. “It is a hauler that has been manufactured on a site powered by green energy and redirects waste away from landfill.”

“We are creating significant stepping stones towards a sustainable future,” says Charlie. “And this not only results in less waste being generated but also benefits the Rokbak customer’s wallet.”