This meant that the unit could control up to 4 pumps as standard, be equipped with a numeric/alphanumeric keypad and could report either by a simple on-board printer or to Merridale’s FuelFX, a Microsoft Windows-based software package.
Standards were high, not just in terms of capability but also in build quality with successful features such as lockable inner enclosures to secure away high voltage and programmable equipment from prying hands. All systems utilised a read/write smart datakey which put the unit ahead of most of its competitors in terms of flexibility of operation.
Whilst this system was expanded as far as possible, eventually a new processor with added functionality had to be considered and launched in 2008. The fuel management system was relaunched as the Auditor GX, that featured faster communications and additional ancillary interfaces. Interestingly, the new processor was designed to be fitted retrospectively into the older “F” series products to improve system life for a further 10 years. This coincided with the launch of the Merridale pledge which is provided with every new system guaranteeing support for the Merridale product for a period of 10 years from purchase.
In recent years, Merridale launched a new processor board with added capabilities to the previous boards. Again, not only is this starting to be utilised in the new Merridale MX product ranges but can be utilised to offer additional support for systems dating back to the early 90’s.
Fuel Pumps
Other upgrades have been developed for fuel pumps over the years. When faced with the potential of a shortage in supply of their current display units, Merridale chose to create a greater functioning display unit for the fuel pumps that is also backwardly compatible with older models.
One thing that has been a certainty in the production of Merridale diesel fuel pumps has been the use of high-quality genuine Bennett hydraulics and Elnor Motors over the almost 25 years that these have been in production. This choice of high-quality components has ensured that Merridale pumps are almost universally recognised to be the most rugged and reliable pumps available.
Tank Management Systems
Merridale tank management systems have also been designed to be used with a variety of probes, should there be a shortage of probes another can be sought to replace this without affecting performance. Systems have been developed that can be utilised with both older and newer Merridale fuel management systems without expensive upgrade costs.
Bunded Aboveground Storage Tanks
Over the years, Merridale found an increasing number of people asking them to provide aboveground fuel storage systems. In order that Merridale could ensure and maintain its high reputation, a great deal of time has been spent developing and renewing tank fabricators to ensure that offered packages not just meet with acceptable standards but with Merridale’s high level expectations as well. For instance, it has always been Merridale’s policy to source aboveground bunded storage tank systems with large capacity equipment anti-vandal cabinets. Principally, this was to ensure that the tank package could be maintained easily without the need for removal from the cabinet to facilitate servicing. Another factor has been to ensure that the cabinets were large enough to enable the replacement of any equipment easily without the need to extend that cabinet.
Merridale have always designed and developed their comprehensive range of products and services to not only meet designated industry standards but to beat them in a way that assures the maximum life expectancy of the equipment. Fleet operators have peace of mind with Merridale systems knowing that future upgrades and developments don’t necessarily require a full system replacement.
If you are interested in Merridale equipment, please contact the Merridale sales office on 01902 350700 or contact via sales@merridale.co.uk.