UK’s First VanHool-IV 60m³ Tipping Silo with Friction Stir Welding Technology

Clugston Distribution Makes History

There’s genuine excitement across the Clugston Group as we celebrate another achievement by our colleagues at Clugston Distribution Services Ltd. The very first VanHool-IV 60m³ tipping silo to be delivered to British shores proudly bears the Clugston name.

This milestone is significant because of the innovative technology used during manufacturing. The tanker was built using the latest 12m Friction Stir Welding (FSW) technique. A breakthrough in tanker construction that results in an impressive and strong single-seam vessel. VanHool has really pulled out all the stops, creating what could well be the most advanced tanker construction we’ve witnessed in years.

Friction Stir Welding

Traditional welding methods have served the industry before, but FSW takes things to an entirely different level. The process creates a single-seam vessel that’s remarkably robust. Where conventional techniques might leave potential weak spots, this method produces a uniform bond that’s both stronger and more reliable, with improved structural integrity, reducing the weld’s potential for leaks or weaknesses. 

Anyone who’s spent time around bulk haulage knows the reality: every breakdown costs money, every delay frustrates customers. FSW technology tackles these problems head-on. Less time in the workshop means more time earning revenue.

Future-Focused Logistics

Timing couldn’t be better with this week’s Road Transport Expo at Stoneleigh. Anyone curious about this technological leap can see the silo up close at VanHool’s stand Y1. Our own Alistair Clugston will be there alongside Nigel Graham from Clugston Distribution Services Ltd, working closely with Shaun Hurst and the VanHool team to demonstrate what this technology can achieve. It’s rare to witness a genuine first in the transport industry, but that’s exactly what visitors will find. 

The Clugston Approach

This achievement perfectly reflects our company’s character. Whether we’re managing international logistics or handling domestic transportation, we’ve always believed in investment into proven innovation that can make us more efficient.

What Comes Next

Transport moves fast, and the companies that thrive are the ones that spot opportunities early. Anyone attending the expo this week should definitely make time for the VanHool stand.

Road Transport Expo 2025 continues at Stoneleigh, Warwickshire throughout the week (24–26 June). Find our experts from Clugston Distribution and representatives of VanHool at stand Y1 to learn more about their FSW technology.