MBM 15

Pioneering High-Tec Stabilisation 

Awesome Earthmovers was recently invited to the Salisbury Plain Training Area by Irish Manufacturer SpreadTec & Reeds Construction and Engineering, who have created a high-powered, high-tech machine for laying foundations on critical projects.

SpreadTec is the construction division of Agrispread – global manufacturer of agricultural machinery and world leader in fertiliser, lime, bulk products and rear discharge manure spreaders. 
Armouring Roads for the MOD: Strengthening Military Infrastructure with Cement Stabilisation

Reeds Construction and Engineering, the UK SpreadTec distributor, has been hard at work on Salisbury Plain, enhancing military roads for the Ministry of Defence (MOD) using advanced cement stabilisation techniques. Central to the operation is the highly efficient SpreadTec MBM 15 (mounted binder meter), which plays a crucial role in reinforcing the road structure.

The primary objective of this armouring project is to significantly increase the roads’ lifespan and improve their ability to withstand the demanding forces exerted by military vehicles and operations. Cement stabilisation forms a robust, durable layer, offering substantial protection against damage such as potholes, cracking, and general surface degradation.

This method not only enhances durability—making the roads more resilient to extreme weather, heavy loads, and constant use—but also delivers long-term cost savings. By minimising the need for frequent repairs or complete reconstruction, it ensures reduced maintenance costs over time.
The benefits of armoured roads extend beyond durability. Safer and more reliable surfaces contribute to fewer accidents, improved traffic flow, and reduced travel times—critical for both military efficiency and public safety. Well-maintained infrastructure supports operational readiness while also benefiting local communities and environments where these routes are shared.

With the use of innovative equipment like the SpreadTec MBM 15 and the expertise of Reeds Construction and Engineering, the MOD is investing in a future-proofed network of high-performance military roads.
The project in question was being carried out by Reeds Engineering & Construction Ltd. A large outfit based in the South of England. The machine employed for the task is SpreadTec’s  brand-new, and bespoke built, 15m3 automatic rate-controlled MBM 15 Binder spreader, designed & custom fit for soil stabilisation, mounted to a Hydrema 922G.

Soil stabilisation is a method whereby lime or cement are mixed into soil in order to increase its strength and resiliency resulting in major improvements of soil for engineered fill and decreased wastage.Soil stabilisation technology is the sustainable solution for laying foundations. This practice reduces CO2 emissions with less imported bulk aggregate on site, reduces waste and improves the engineering properties of weaker soils during the groundwork phase of civil engineering projects. Soil stabilisation also improves winter site access and traffic management.

With SpreadTec’s MBM 15 on site, the job is progressing well with most of the foundations laid in record time and to an extremely durable standard. As the MBM15  has an automatic metered rotor system which allows constant volumetric rate control and an electronic load cell weighting system, targets are guaranteed to be hit within a workable variable speed zone. This means faster-prepared ground and more project efficiency.Key features include an intuitive in-cab main control screen, dynamic application rate control, multiple product calibrations, data logging and remote telematic diagnostic support.

With an in-house design team who developed the software and electronic control system on the MBM 15, the software features an automatic control system that dynamically adjusts the application rate to the ground speed with weigh cells, for consistent material application rates and control of cement, lime and binding agent materials spread via a metering rotor regulator and auger applicator. Where different levels of binders are required, the MBM 15 tailors its flow.

More unique features include operator optimal forward speed & rate guidance control indicator with automated cleaning cycles for each main spreader component. The system can also be remotely accessed online to train, debug, monitor and screen share with SpreadTec or dealer support teams to both diagnose issues and guide the operator when required.

SpreadTec's automatic hydro-electrical system incorporates a full suite of hydraulic controls and a vast array of safety interlocks. Every access panel to moving parts has been fitted with an interlock sensor that prevents the machine from running unless in the safe, closed position.

The design also incorporates a built-in dust free filtration system for improved site air quality control. 
SpreadTec machines can be found on some of the largest industrial-scale projects and infrastructure schemes in the UK, such as the High Speed 2 (HS2) rail project, the A465 Heads of the Valleys and Coventry Airport. 

Reeds Engineering & Construction Ltd. – More than Just the Machine Dealer. 
As the dealer for SpreadTec machines in the whole of the United Kingdom, Reeds Engineering and Construction Ltd. (Reeds)  know this equipment inside and out. Whereas a standard dealer learns about their machines through sales and experience, Reeds played a pivotal role in the creation of the MBM15 spreaders now on site across the country.

Awesome Earthmovers spoke to Haydn Waters, Sales Manager for Reeds, who told us how the MBM15 came to be. After the design and initial prototype stage, testing began. The machine was fine-tuned for two years and eventually was ready for production.

Now, twenty SpreadTec machines are working across the UK, notable projects include the high-priority rail line HS2, a project which Reeds has been involved since work started. Looking to the future, Reeds Engineering and Construction are expecting growth both in their sales and fleet via newly launched machinery which is due soon, and the projects they are able to work on.

https://digital.awesomeearthmovers.com/magazine/reader/280971?pageNumber=63