10,000th ADT in Norway First in DEVELON Colours in Europe24 March 2023DumpersIn February 2023, Doosan celebrated production of the 10,000th Articulated Dump Truck (ADT) from the company’s plant at Elnesvågen outside Molde in Norway. In fact, there was even more to acknowledge with the 10,000th unit as it is the first machine in Europe to officially carry the colours of the company’s new DEVELON brand. As well as the DEVELON branding, the 10,000th ADT also carries an extra special design, which harks back to the origins of the ADT range. A time well before Doosan and even the Moxy era,back to the Viking ADT model, 12 of which were produced by the company, Øveraasen, in the time before Moxy took over production. This is recognised by a Viking ship motif on the tailgate of the 10,000th unit, a DEVELON DA45-7 model. Over the years, a number of different ADT models have been produced at Molde, including the D15, 5222B, 6225B, 7235, MT40, MT41, DA40 and now, today’s models, the DA30-7 and the DA45-7. Rosendal Maskin AS, the Authorised Dealer for Norway, has supplied ADTs since 1987, and has delivered a total of almost 500 of the 10,000 so far produced! According to the Molde Plant Manager, Jan Roger Lindset, the 10,000th ADT with production number 851951 has been purchased from Rosendal Maskin AS by the Rental Group in Norway. Production began at the Molde plant in 1972 when the business was called Glamox. Since then, the brand has had a number of names such as Moxy, Moxy Industrial, Brown Engineering, Moxy Trucks, Moxy Engineering and in 2008, the name changed to Doosan when the South Korean manufacturer bought the factory and the product. In 2021, Hyundai Heavy Industries bought the Doosan construction equipment range including the ADT line, and the name of the businesswas changed to Hyundai Doosan Infracore (HDI). There are currently 150 employees at the Elnesvågen plant, but with both DEVELON and Hyundai ADTs now being produced at the factory, the workforce is expected to expand to meet an expected 40% growth in production. The DEVELON ADT Range – Best-in-Class Performance The DEVELON ADT range comprises two 6×6 models – the DA30-7 and DA45-7 Stage V compliant machines – the DA30-7 has a payload of 28 tonne, while that of the DA45-7 is 41 tonne. The range was extended at Bauma 2022 with the launch of a new 4×4 version of the DA45-7 ADT, intended to compete with rigid dump trucks (RDTs) in the 40-tonne class. Like all DEVELON ADTs, the DA30-7 and DA45-7 models feature an articulation hinge positioned behind the turning ring to provide equal weight distribution to the front axle even during maximum steer articulation. This combined with a free-swinging rear tandem bogie ensures equal distribution of weight to each wheel and guarantees permanent 6-wheel contact and drive for equal power distribution and excellent performance particularly on difficult terrains such as soft ground, uneven surfaces, very steep slopes, tight turns or a combination of all of these difficult conditions. Collectively, the forward turning point, the unique tandem bogie and the sloping rear frame results in ‘best in class’ rough and soft terrain capabilities. The unique body shape and sloping frame ensure equal load distribution on all the wheels making these machines the best haulers for soft terrain work. The design of the articulation also provides equal load distribution on the wheels on both the left and right hand side when turning, which is very important for the traction and stability of the machines. All of these outstanding features are available on the DEVELONStage V DA30-7 and DA45-7 ADT models. In the new 4×4 ADT, the front truck and cab unit is the same as in the original 6×6 model, with modifications being made on the rear dumper unit only. Featuring a ZF EP8-420 transmission, the 4×4 DA45-7 is a two-axle ADT with twin wheels at the rear, and with a dumper sectionsimilar to that on RDTs in the 40-tonne class. Superior Performance in Difficult Conditions Compared to RDTs “With superior operation on poorer roads, smoother surfaces and steeper terrain, the aim of our new 4×4 machine is to challenge RDTs in the 40-tonne class, by providing a dumper productthat delivers much more than RDTs,” says Beka Nemstsveridze, ADT Product Manager at DEVELON. As well as performing better in conditions that are tough for RDTs, the new 4×4 DA45-7 ADT has a width of less than 4 m to avoid the need for special transportation and offers a better turning radius than a comparable RDT. The shorter turning radius and the design of the rear dumper unit, which is more suited to carrying flat and heavy rocks, provide particular advantages in the mining and tunnelling industries. The latter are growing markets for ADTs, and include pioneering, short-term mining projects, quarrying and contract mining industries, especially those in southern Africa, the UK and Australia. Construction and bulk earthmoving contractors involved in roads, dams, airports, landfills and development projects are also large users of ADTs. Together these areas make the ADT market a wide and varied one, thereby ensuring a large customer base. For more information on DEVELON, please visit the website: https://eu.develon-ce.com/en/... Read more...Electric machines: Europe is leading the charge21 March 2023MachineThe transition from ICE to electric power will not happen overnight, but momentum is building and the EMEA region is leading the way, believes Yanmar CE’s Cédric Durand. Considering that Yanmar is famous for inventing the small diesel engine in 1933, it may surprise some that the company is at the forefront of trying to replace it. Yanmar Compact Equipment (CE) will start European deliveries this year of its first zero-emissions mini excavator – the SV17e, and all-new V8e compact wheel loader. But this is no contradiction: Yanmar’s founder Yamaoka Magokichi saw the diesel engine as a means to an end – improving society. In those days the small diesel engine transformed the lives of farmers in Japan. Today, with emissions from combustion engines impacting the climate, it is clear that to improve society a new solution is needed. That solution is embracing electric power. The launch of the SV17e and V8e are important strategic steps in Yanmar CE’s future transformation. Delivering 23.5 kWh and 40kWh battery capacity respectively (and with a 52kWh option), these electric machines are capable, powerful and highly productive – while always meeting the world’s most demanding emissions restrictions. A new way of working As good as the SV17e and V8e are, it and the new generation of electric machines are struggling to gain traction. Electric technology is new, and customers are hesitant to make such a big change. The purchase price of electric machines – due to high component prices – is more than comparable ICE machines – and that’s not all. The charging infrastructure is still in its infancy, new machines require a different way of working for customers, and residual values are unknown. But despite the challenges, this industry isgoing electric – and this shift will happen in Europe first. “It’s not going to be easy, but by 2050 we plan to be net zero emissions,” says Cédric Durand, Director Product Management EMEA at Yanmar CE. “Not just Yanmar, but also Yanmar customers. We have a roadmap to make that happen – and electrification is at the heart of it.” Before joining Yanmar three years ago Cédric Durand spent 15 years working for dealers across Europe and in North Africa. He knows customers and is not daunted at the scale of the challenge the industry faces in becoming sustainable. Thankfully, things are starting to move. Growing interest in Europe “Customers and countries are becoming interested – and that’s an important first step,” he says. “Large rental companies are dipping their toes in the market, and several big contractors with ESG targets are keen. Scandinavia and the Nordics are leading the field for zero emissions, especially Norway, but these are still small markets. For volumes to really grow – and economies-of-scale to drive down costs – we need a major European economy like Germany, France or the UK to push for electrification. We are not seeing that yet. But when it happens, we believe it will go fast – and we need to have a range of electric machines ready.” Tougher environmental legislation and ultra-low (and zero) emission zones in urban areas will play a part in accelerating the shift to electric. So too will cost of ownership. It costs far less to charge a machine using electricity than it does to fill one with diesel, and with fewer service parts (oil, oil filter etc), this combination could well mean electric machines have a total cost of ownership that is less than diesel – even with the higher initial purchase price. Robust technology Another concern is battery life – how long until they need replacing? “On the products we are launching this year, the lifetime of the batteries will be at least equivalent to the lifetime expected of a diesel machine,” says Durand. “We are also devising ways to reuse those end-of-life batteries so that they contribute to the circular economy.” Yanmar CE is working closely with its dealers to ensure customers of electric machines get the same excellent service they are accustomed to. “Putting the sustainability issue to one side, electrification is the right way forward in terms of performance, operator comfort and economy,” continues Durand. “We put customers at the heart of everything we do, and at the very least we are aiming for our first-gen electric machines to be easy to use and have similar performance as our equivalent diesel powered equipment.” Far from being intimidated at the scale of his task, Cédric Durand is more than up for it. “There hasn’t been a change this big in the last 50 years, he says. “It will involve us all adapting and making compromises, but electrification is going to happen. It’s good for the climate and good for business – it’s an exciting prospect.” Much has changed in the 111 years since Mr Magokichi set up Yanmar, but the company remains true to its original purpose – to build a sustainable business for both its customers, dealers and society.... Read more...Rokbak connects with the crowds and customers at CONEXPO21 March 2023EventsRokbak is presenting both its RA30 and RA40 at CONEXPO this week and is using its presence at the show to discuss innovations, connected services, efficiencies and sustainability with attendees, as the Scottish articulated hauler manufacturer looks to the future. The RokbakRA30 and RA40 haulers are on display for the first time ever at a North American tradeshow this week at CONEXPO 2023 in Las Vegas. Since rebranding as Rokbak, the company is seeing huge demand for its articulated haulers in North America, with up to 60% of the machines that leave the Motherwell factory currently heading across the Atlantic. And this is definitely something that the team are experiencing at the show too – with customers, dealers and attendees from North America, EMEA and APAC keen to get up close to the new machines and find out more. Four product focus areas Rokbak is using CONEXPO to highlight four connected product focus areas – innovation, sustainability, connected services and efficiencies – that will shape the company’s development journey and have been created from customer feedback, market research, technology advancements and product performance improvements. The four themes encompass everything from future product developments, such as a next generation cab with higher levels of operator comfort and a modern ergonomic layout, to helping machine owners manage total cost of ownership with Rokbak’s improved Haul Track telematics system. “We have a clear roadmap on future product development and it’s great to talk about our plans with our customers and dealers and get their feedback,” says Paul Douglas, Managing Director of Rokbak. “Afterall, they are the ones that guide our product strategy. It has also been nice to hear such positive feedback about our new brand, as well as the performance, reliability and colour of the RA30 and RA40 haulers. For some people, it’s the first time they’ve seen the haulers in real life and their responses are incredible.” Strong demand in North America The US is leading articulated hauler demand with huge infrastructure spend and a lot of construction activity around house and road building. The total articulated hauler market for North America is usually around 3,500 units, with 2022 closing out with an expectation-defying 4,000 units. North American customers currently account for nearly half of the total market, which was just over 9,000 units in 2022. “Our Rokbak haulers are working in clearance, aggregates, housing, even in the energy sector,” says Robert Franklin, Director of Sales – Americas. “We’re seeing a lot of our machines in quarries and on infrastructure jobs, making improvements to existing roads. Then there’s a lot of other dirt work, with assistance installing power lines and putting in new roads and highways. “We’ve had a lot of interest in our Rokbak machines out on the West Coast and then through the south, across Florida, through Georgia into Alabama territory, and up into different parts of Canada. North America is a strong, healthy market for articulated haulers, and we’ve got a good, fair share of it. “What we’ve also observed in the North American market is that used equipment has been in such high demand, our dealers have been selling off a lot of their original machines from their rental fleet. This means that the dealers obviously need to buy replacements for those rental fleet units. Currently the market is extremely strong and no-one’s slowing down. The future’s looking bright.” The strength of the Volvo Group Part of the Volvo Group, Rokbak is located at Booth F8926 in the Festival Grounds together with Volvo Construction Equipment and Volvo Penta. Product experts are at the booth discussing the technical capabilities and key aspects of the haulers, highlighting how the RA30 and RA40 can help benefit construction projects and deliver new benchmarks in both performance and total cost of ownership. ... Read more...SANY UK JOINS THE HIRE ASSOCIATION EUROPE21 March 2023PlantSANY UK, a leading global manufacturer of construction equipment, is pleased to announce its membership in the Hire Association Europe (HAE). The HAE is the leading trade association for the plant and tool hire industry in Europe, promoting the highest standards of quality and safety among its members. SANY UK’s membership in the HAE demonstrates its commitment to the highest standards of professionalism and customer service. “We are proud to join the HAE as a registered member,” said Leigh Harris, Business Development Director of SANY UK. “We are committed to providing our customers with the highest levels of quality, safety, and customer service, and we believe that our membership in the HAE will help us achieve this goal.” As a member of the HAE, SANY UK will have access to a wide range of resources and support, including training, networking opportunities, and industry-specific advice. The HAE also promotes the use of safe and sustainable practices in the plant and tool hire industry, which aligns with SANY’scommitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility. For more information about SANY UK and its products, visit www.sanyuk.com. For more information about the Hire Association Europe, visit www.hae.org.uk.... Read more...Low-Carbon DEVELON Technologies on Display During CONEXPO-CON/AGG 202321 March 2023Events– DEVELON showcases its latest technology for developing zero-emission power sources – DEVELON, formerly known as Doosan construction equipment, is displaying the company’s latest low-carbon, zero-emission power source technology at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023. On display in the DEVELON booth is the company’s latest iteration of its e-Powerpack (battery pack), mild-hybrid powertrain and plug-in high-voltage full hybrid engine. E-Powerpack: Go Electric In June 2021, the company announced the manufacture of its first in-house battery pack prototype. The battery pack was developed for use with electrically driven vehicles, including construction, mining and agricultural machinery. The DX20ZE-7 electric-powered mini-excavator on display at CONEXPO features the company’s battery pack technology. A battery pack is the final form of the battery system mounted on motorized machines. It is configured with control and protection systems, such as a customized battery module that bundles a certain number of batteries in cell units into a frame, a battery management system (BMS) and a cooling system. “Our DEVELON battery pack provides a low-cost, high-efficiency solution for our customers who are planning for electrification in their equipment fleets,” says Thomas Lee, director of product management at DEVELON. “We continue the development of attachable high-energy and high-density battery packs.” High efficiency and durability is achieved in the e-Powerpack through the following ways: Enhanced energy density structural adhesives to attach cells and modules to the frame. Increased lifespan and low temperature performance through an integrated water-cooling system module. From a safety perspective, Thomas Lee says, the e-Powerpack is designed with wire bonding to help prevent thermal runaway. And the company adheres to ongoing hardware and software compliance with functional safety (ISO 26262) ASIL-C. Serial and parallel combinations are adaptable for diverse voltages and capacity of battery packs. Thomas Lee says this is part of the company’s plan for standardization and expandability of its e-Powerpacks. Hybrid Engine and Powertrain Technology DEVELON is highlighting two of the company’s hybrid engine technologies at CONEXPO-CON/AGG. The first is a mild hybrid powertrain with the following features: 48-volt electric motor and lithium-ion battery added to the existing engine and system e-Drive system for improved startability and dynamic characteristics Reduced CO2 emissions and improved fuel economy made possible by downsizing the engine, reducing low-efficiency components and using regenerative braking The second engine technology is a plug-in high-voltage full hybrid. It offers the following features: More efficient and powerful multi-purpose powertrain system 360-volt e-Drive system and lithium-ion battery added to the engine Ability to choose most efficient operation based on the application: Pure electric mode in zero-emission zone○ Hybrid mode○ ICE-only mode High performance achieved through e-Drive system and ICE Plug-in charging available using on-board charging For more information on DEVELON, please visit the website: https://eu.develon-ce.com/en/... Read more...DEVELON Hosts Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony to Unveil New Brand, Product Expansion21 March 2023Events– Executives from DEVELON kick off CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 with a special event in the booth – DEVELON employees celebrated the company’s new brand and the unveiling of a product line expansion during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on the company’s stand at CONEXPO-CON/AGG on Monday 13th March 2023. Hyundai Doosan Infracore CEO, Young-cheul Cho,and CEO, Seung Hyun Oh, were among the executives leading the celebration in the new DEVELON booth. Note: DEVELON was formerly known as Doosan construction equipment. DEVELON-branded heavy and compact construction equipment is on display at CONEXPO-CON/AGG in the company’s outdoor booth in the Festival Grounds lot (F9153). “We look forward to displaying our newly branded DEVELON machines at the trade show this week,” says Todd Roecker, vice president of growth initiatives at DEVELON. “This is a continuation of our plan to roll out the new brand to our North American and international audiences. We expect our dealers and customers will be pleased with the new look.” For more information on DEVELON, please visit the website: https://eu.develon-ce.com/en/... Read more...Caterpillar Crowns World Champion of 2022/2023 Global Operator Challenge21 March 2023Events / NewsPatrick Doheny from Australia won the final competition alongside other awards presented by Caterpillar during CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 More than 5,500 machine operators worldwide have been competing in the Caterpillar Global Operator Challenge since the spring of 2022, and today, one of them emerged as the “World Champion” – the best Cat construction machine operator on the planet. On Tuesday, March 14, Patrick Doheny of Australia took the crown out of nine finalists from around the world who competed in the final round of the Global Operator Challenge in the Cat Operator Stadium in Las Vegas. Caterpillar’s year-long Global Operator Challenge is one of the largest construction industry events, with operators from nearly three dozen countries participating. The Challenge highlights the amazing ways construction machine operators masterfully guide Cat machines and use the latest technologies to get the job done. “Caterpillar created this competition to celebrate machine operators who build our world, advocate and drive awareness for their trade, and highlight solutions that address jobsite challenges,” said Jason Hurdis, Caterpillar Global Operator Challenge Execution Lead and Global Market Professional. “All of the competitors – and especially our nine finalists – showed tremendous skills and abilities operating the latest Cat construction machines and technologies, maneuvering through some difficult challenges and showing the world theinvaluable role they play in infrastructure creation.” The Challenge kicked off in the spring of 2022 with more than 10,000 operators worldwide signing up to compete. After a pre-qualification phase, the first round featured 5,500 contestants competing in local events organized by 77 Cat dealers in 32 countries. The second round in the fall of 2022 consisted of four regional events held in the United States, Brazil, Spain, and Japan. These competitions included digging a trench, loading a precise amount of dirt, and hauling or maneuvering the machines through obstacles. The third and final round this week in Las Vegas was the ultimate test of precision. Grouped into teams of three – Team Americas, Team Europe, and Team Asia – the nine finalists competed individually and as teams, as they faced three challenges in a specially constructedstadium featuring stands, fans, big-screen TVs, and play-by-play announcers. The finals kicked off with the “Fork ‘n Loader” challenge, where each operator used the Cat 950 wheel loader with Payload technology to load and move material through specified locations on the course. The “Backhoe Services” challenge had operators using both ends of the Cat 420 XE backhoe to open a small box and precisely place small objects inside. This challenge was designed by Jaus Neigum, the 2020 Caterpillar Global Operator Challenge World Champion, and highlighted Caterpillar’s Customer Value Agreements and services offerings. During the final “Trench Run” challenge, operators showed off their trenching skills using a Cat 315 excavator equipped with Grade technology. Final scores were based on the operator’s skills, efficiency, and competence in executing a variety of tasks, with penalties imposed for errors. Awards were given to the overall event champion, the individual with the lowest time in each skills challenge, and the team with the lowest combined score. The operators completed the challenges using Cat construction machines integrated with the latest machine-control and payload technologies, including Cat Payload, Grade and Command, Cat Grade Assist, rearview cameras, return to dig and return to carry. Final Awards Patrick Doheny from Australia was crowned the champion. Caterpillar awarded him with a trip for two to a location where Caterpillar has one of its worldwide production facilities. “I am beyond thrilled to have earned the title of the best Caterpillar machine operator on the planet,” Doheny said. “Kudos to Caterpillar for hosting such an incredible event to highlight the importance of our profession. It is truly a dream come true to see your life’s passion be rewarded in such an amazing way.” In second place was Matt Ferris from the United States, and third place was awarded to Łukasz Mokrzyński from Poland. Other awards presented were:• “Fork ‘n Loader” challenge winner – Patrick Doheny from Australia• “Backhoe Services” challenge winner – John Schiedeck from the United States• “Trench Run” challenge winner – Łukasz Mokrzyński from Poland• Team champion Team Americas (Fernando Do Nascimento from Brazil and Matt Ferris and John Schiedeck, both from the United States) The Nine Finalists Representing Europe, Africa, and the Middle East:• Sebastian Behr – Germany (placed third in the 2019/2020 Caterpillar Global Operator Challenge) with 35 years as an operator• Pontus Ericksson – Sweden with 11 years as an operator• Łukasz Mokrzyński – Poland with 15 years as an operator Representing the Americas were:• Fernando Do Nascimento – Brazil with 28 years as an operator• Matt Ferris – United States (Arizona) with 20 years as an operator• John Schiedeck – United States (Texas) with 16 years as an operator Representing Asia-Pacific were:• Patrick Doheny – Australia with 25 years as an operator• Masato Imai – Japan with 20 years as an operator• Nick Thompson – Australia with 15 years as an operator For more information about the Caterpillar Global Operator Challenge, please visit www.cat.com/operatorchallenge.... Read more...Agg-Pro launches new website15 March 2023Recycling / TechnologyAgg-Pro, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of crushing, screening, washing and recycling equipment, is excited to announce the launch of their new website; www.agg-pro.com. The new website has been designed with the customer in mind and features include a bespoke product filtering system, WhatsApp integration for easy communication with the team, and a mobile friendly design. The highly visual website helps to showcase the company’s wide range of superior equipment and has been designed to grow with the business as they continue to add to their product portfolio. Steve Peterson, Commercial Director at Agg-Pro said: “We are currently experiencing an exciting period of growth and we wanted to develop a new website which showcases our product offering and allows our customers old and new to better understand who we are. “We are proud of our reputation for excellent customer service and our highly experienced team offer innovative solutions and create long-standing and collaborative partnerships with our customers, and we wanted our new website to help reflect this.” Agg-Pro was established in 1996 to provide a personal, customer focussed approach to the supply of equipment for the quarrying and recycling industries. Its Head Office in Tamworth includes a 40,000 sq ft premises incorporating a factory for refurbishments and employs 34 people. Explore the new Agg-Pro website at www.agg-pro.com... Read more...Doosan Bobcat Announces Global Brand Strategy: Forklifts & Portable Power Transition to Bobcat Brand10 March 2023Equipment Rebranded Products to be shown at CONEXPO and ProMat fairs – Doosan Bobcat, a company within Doosan Group and a leading global compact equipment manufacturer, has announced its global branding strategy to create business and growth opportunities for the Doosan Bobcat product portfolio. Doosan Portable Power (DPP), an industry-leading global manufacturer of air compressors, mobile generators and light towers; and Doosan Industrial Vehicle (DIV), a supplier of quality material handling equipment, including forklifts, will rebrand their product offerings under the Bobcat brand. “Bobcat is an iconic brand that changed the world with the invention of the compact equipment industry, and we are excited to unleash the brand in bold, new ways,” said Scott Park, Doosan Bobcat CEO & Vice Chairman. “Doosan Portable Power and Doosan Industrial Vehicle have long legacies of developing high-quality products. Bringing these strong Doosanbrands into the Bobcat portfolio allows us to further expand these business lines, while also growing our overall Doosan Bobcat business and providing even more solutions to help our customers accomplish more.” The rebranding of the portable power and industrial vehicle equipment lines — two key business areas for Bobcat — looks to further strengthen overall brand equity, market recognition and consumer recall of all product offerings. The transition will create a cohesivecustomer experience and grow the organization’s footprint, thus making the brand accessible to more customers and in more places. Bobcat has broadened its product portfolio significantly within the past five years, launching more machines during this period than previously in its entire history. The brand has successfully expanded its offerings with new technologies and innovations and expanded product lines, such as grounds maintenance equipment, which includes compact tractors, small articulated loaders, mowers and turf equipment. “The Bobcat brand empowers ambitious and passionate groundbreakers to accomplish more. Across the globe, big challenges get smaller because of our equipment; from breaking down walls to building up communities, we’re proud to provide people with what they need to be successful in their endeavours,” said Laura Ness Owens, Doosan Bobcat Vice President of Global Brand. “By expanding the Bobcat brand to the portable power and industrial vehicle industries, Bobcat can help even more customers, in more ways than ever.” With this refreshed identity, the DPP and DIV product lines will, respectively, undergo design and aesthetic changes in alignment with current Bobcat branding. The rebranded products will be displayed at key global trade shows in March and April 2023: • DPP will display a portion of its product line-up rebranded in Bobcat trade livery at CONEXPO 2023 in Las Vegas, 14-18 March.• DIV will showcase rebranded Bobcat forklifts as part of the in-booth display at ProMat 2023 in Chicago, 20-23 March, as well as at LogiMAT in Germany, 25-27 April. Bobcat-branded material handling equipment and portable power products are expected to be available through Doosan Bobcat’s extensive, global dealer network at a later date. Bobcat and these rebranded product lines will proudly remain part of the broader Doosan Group portfolio. ... Read more...Denmark’s leading recycling company relies on XPower® wheel loader from Liebherr10 March 2023Wheel LoadersRGS Nordic, market leader in construction waste management in Denmark, uses 40 XPower® wheel loaders in its recycling operationsEfficient wheel loaders with power-split drive reduce CO2 emissionsEconomy and reliability of Liebherr wheel loaders as a purchase criterion RGS Nordic specialises in recycling construction and demolition waste materials and is the market leader in Denmark. It operates a fleet of around 130 construction machines, about two-thirds of which have been supplied by the Liebherr Group. Among them are 40 XPower® wheel loaders of various sizes featuring wheel power-split travel drive as standard and returning notably low fuel consumption. Every day, more than 1,000 truckloads of construction waste and other material arrive at RGS Nordic’s facilities to be converted into reusable and circular products and reintegrated into the product cycle. The 40 Liebherr XPower® wheel loaders are used for material handling as part of the process. Michael Jørgensen, strategic purchasing manager, commented: “The Liebherr wheel loaders need less fuel, are powerful and have hardly any downtime. We are particularly impressed that we achieve 30% more productivity with the same fuel consumption than with comparable wheel loaders in this size class.” Those enormous advantages in fuel consumption also ensure lower CO2 emissions, meaning the machines align perfectly with RGS Nordic’s core values. Clear statement: Recycling is the future At Denmark’s largest waste management site, recycling the delivered material is top priority. “We aim to make circular economy a sustainable business”, added Jørgensen. The Liebherr wheel loaders play a key role in helping the company achieve that aim. On one hand, they transport the bulky waste pre-sorted by Liebherr excavators to the sorting plants, and on the other, feed the numerous crushing and screening plants with various construction wastes. At the end of the treatment process, the recycled material is reused on construction sites around Copenhagen. RGS Nordic also returns the supplied, partly contaminated material to the product cycle through specialised processing operations, for example by adding substances such as calcium and by constantly shifting the piles of earth using the Liebherr wheel loaders. That function is important to ensure a reliable oxygen supply during composting. Once that operation is complete, the XPower® machines load the recycled material on to trucks for RGS Nordic’s customers to use as a natural raw material on a wide variety of construction sites rather than rely on new products. RGS Nordic at a glance RGS Nordic employs over 200 people and operates 22 reception and treatment facilities in Denmark, including the country’s largest waste treatment site and the Nordic region’s biggest commercial biological site for treating industrial wastewater. The recycling specialist has set itself a goal of converting even more waste into quality building materials and implementing sustainable processes in the circular economy. The large Liebherr fleet plays a vital role supporting the company in its daily work.... Read more...Hüffermann Krandienst: flat-top cranes from Liebherr prove their flexibility in use10 March 2023CranesModern EC-B cranes impress with their high lifting capacity, minimal number of transport units and efficient assembly Top-slewing cranes supplied for rental by Hüffermann Krandienst Service with short response times contributes to successful crane operations Hüffermann Krandienst GmbH has built up a comprehensive rental fleet with new Liebherr tower cranes and further expanded its selection at Bauma 2022. The machines are put to work on variety of construction projects, as three examples from Germany show. Cranes from the EC-B series have been used for a tropical zoo enclosure, a residential and commercial building in a central location, and an office building complete with children’s daycare centre. All machines impressed with their transport and assembly-optimised concept. Biberach/Riß (Germany), 9 March 2023 – A fascinating building project has been under way at the Allwetterzoo in Münster, namely a tropical zoo environment housing plants, water sources and animals under a large foiled dome structure. The elliptical building covers 4,000 square metres and reaches a height of 16 metres at its highest point. A Liebherr 172 EC-B 8 flat-top crane with a freestanding hook height of 39 metres, a 60-metre radius, and a maximum lifting capacity of eight tonnes has played a key part in construction. “The crane supported smooth operations on site in the best possible way with its precise slewing and easy operation,” said Tjark Bethke, site manager and managing director at Windhorst Stahl- und Metallbau GmbH. His company designed and manufactured the dome. “All components were placed in exactly the right position with millimetre precision and without any problems.” He considers the crane an important success factor in the dome’s time-consuming and challenging assembly. Precise lifting with smart assistance systems The crane had to move heavy steel components for the dome and insert them with millimetre precision. The heaviest part weighed in at 4.2 tonnes and was around 49 metres long. This lift was mastered with ease by the Liebherr crane thanks to its responsive drives. When a load needs to be placed with extreme precision, the crane operator is able to activate Micromove, the crane’s fine-positioning mode. Micromove is one of several assistance systems designed for the safe and efficient handling of loads. It was essential for the crane to be mounted on a cruciform base. Foundation anchors embedded in concrete were not an option as special ground probes in the tropical enclosure made this impossible. The probes are part of the new building’s regenerative energy concept. Heating is provided by geothermal energy and, thanks to concrete core activation, heat can be stored as well. The electricity required for the ground pumps and water treatment is generated by means of a photovoltaic system. Delivery via standard trucks Sustainability also influenced the construction of a residential and commercial building in the centre of Oldenburg. More than 120 apartments as well as retail space and restaurant premises have been built to KfW Efficiency House 55 specifications on a plot of land measuring around 2,700 square metres. A 172 EC-B 8 with a freestanding hook height of 39 metres and a 45-metre radius was in operation there for structural work from April 2022 to January 2023. A 125 EC-B 6 with a freestanding hook height of 24 metres and a 30-metre radius was also involved. Both cranes were mounted on foundation anchors due to the tight conditions on site. Logistics posed a particular challenge as the construction site was located in a pedestrian zone with narrow access roads. The cranes therefore needed to be transported with as few trucks as possible. This is where the EC-B series with its transport-optimised concept came into its own. All crane parts can be transported on regular trucks. Plus, the jib sections have compact external dimensions and can be cleverly stacked together to save on transport units. Compact head and quick assembly connections Another 172 EC-B 8 from Liebherr is helping to build an office building complete with day-care centre and underground car park in the Überseestadt district of Bremen. The new building is part of a neighbourhood development project along the Weser River, which will include living accommodation, workspace, educational services, and leisure facilities. A Liebherr LTM 1120 mobile crane assembled the flat-top crane, which has a freestanding hook height of 38 metres and a 45-metre radius, at the end of September 2022. A compact head and quick assembly connections ensure that cranes in the EC-B series can be efficiently erected and dismantled. The 172 EC-B 8 is being used to install locally manufactured prefabricated façade elements as well as for other construction tasks. Optimal service is also essential when it comes to crane reliability. Liebherr offers on-site customer service with partners like Hüffermann Krandienst, together with decentralised logistics for fast response times. The construction project at the Allwetterzoo in Münster shows just how much customers benefit from this. “The service was fantastic. Assembly engineers came out on the same day to help us out,” said site manager Tjark Bethke. From the right choice of crane to comprehensive services, Liebherr Tower Cranes and Hüffermann Krandienst work hand in hand to ensure the success of their customers. About Hüffermann As a full service provider in the field of crane and heavy haulage logistics, Hüffermann supplies modern Liebherr top-slewing and fast-erecting cranes, including EC-B flat-top cranes and their fibre rope versions, for large-scale construction sites throughout Germany in performance classes ranging from 125 metre tonnes (125 EC-B 6) to 520 metre tonnes (520 EC-B 20 Fibre). In addition to crane rental, transport and assembly, Hüffermann also offers a maintenance and spare parts service for tower cranes. Over the past few years in particular, the Hüffermann Group has invested in new technologies and state-of-the-art equipment to position itself as a “one-stop shop” for specialised solutions regarding cranes, heavy haulage and engineering. The Group includes Hüffermann Krandienst, the Eisele AG – Crane & Engineering Group, Autodienst West Ganske GmbH, the Thömen Group, and Velsycon GmbH.... Read more...Yanmar CE EMEA mini excavator outstanding in its field for South-West agriculture contractor8 March 2023ExcavatorsDevon-based Martin Parish Contracting puts the versatility of Yanmar Compact Equipment EMEA’s ViO38 mini excavator to the test with its expansive woodland and agricultural projects. If there is one thing that Yanmar Compact Equipment EMEA (Yanmar)’s ViO38 mini excavator is guaranteed to offer, it’s versatility. Digging out an extensive pond in the morning, then trimming and felling roadside trees in the afternoon? Pah! That’s a typical day in the life of a ViO38. But don’t just take our word for it; ask Martin Parish Contracting (MPC), a multifaceted forestry and agricultural contractor in Chulmleigh, in deepest rural North Devon. Agriculture is fundamental to Devon and its rural communities, with farming being the mainstay of the local landscape for centuries. While MPC’s owner – Martin Parish – launched his business as recently as 2016, he has been working with machinery since his teens. MPC, as is often found in the countryside, needs to be a jack of all trades, one day making household driveway alterations, to next day landscaping lakes. For these tasks and many more besides, MPC relies on a single Yanmar ViO38 mini excavator, fitting the zero-tail swing unit with various attachments and taking pleasure in regularly testing the breadth of its capabilities: “As a small business, having a multitask machine that can do everything is very important to us. We fit our Yanmar mini excavator with a variety of different buckets for landscaping and groundworks projects; a cutter for hedge and tree trimming; a wire roller and post driver for erecting our fences; a grapple for lifting timber. So many of our tasks rely on the performance of our ViO38. It’s also so easy to operate, and its cabin is really comfortable and surprisingly spacious given the machine’s compact size. This is a huge advantage given how much time we spend working in it every day.” Hydraulic Quick Coupler enables the operator to hydraulically open and close the couplers from their seat at the flick of a switch. The ViO38’s spacious and airtight cabin also features foldable pedals for more operator space, improved ergonomics, and optional air conditioning to maximise comfort around the clock. Tough terrain Much of MPC’s daily jobs revolve around forest management, where Martin and his team will head into Devon’s dense woodland to complete drainage and maintenance work, along with other general forestry activities. These woodlands can often be found on steep valley slopes, and having a robust, reliable unit that can maintain surefootedness while working on difficult terrain is vital, explains Martin: “The forestry work is always challenging, as nine times out of 10 the conditions are steep, wet and in the middle of nowhere. We certainly put the ViO38 mini excavator through its paces with such projects, but it has stood up to the test and proven itself capable of continuing to perform reliably and efficiently.” Yanmar has combined many clever design features to make the ViO38 exceptionally stable, including a low centre of gravity and long undercarriage to ensure a smoother, safer ride. The unit is also fitted with an EU Stage V compliant engine, with an output of 18.9 kW at 2,200 rpm, and an eco-mode that reduces its engine speed, thus lowering fuel consumption. Its fuel efficiency, Martin explains, was one of the key reasons for MPC opting for the ViO38 as its excavator of choice. Personalised support MPC originally purchased its excavator from Machine Serve, an approved Yanmar dealer also situated in Chulmleigh, conveniently just 10 minutes away from MPC’s facilities. Machine Serve specialises in selling and servicing plant and agricultural machinery for the whole of the UK’s South-West, and is responsible for providing parts, maintenance and repair services to MPC. As Martin says: “Having a local dealer is incredibly valuable to us, and the support that Phil Davey and his team offer in terms of getting us parts, maintenance and repairs for our Yanmar unit has been brilliant. They even go out of their way to help us outside of their opening hours if we need it! We are very happy with our decision to have chosen the ViO38, under Machine Serve’s guidance.”... Read more...Relief Aid to Earthquake Damages in Turkey and Syria3 March 2023CharityRelief Aid to Earthquake Damages in Turkey and Syria In cooperation with its local distributor Marubeni Da ğıtım ve Servis A.Ş. (hereinafter “MDS”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Marubeni Corporation, Komatsu will lend construction equipment needed for relief efforts to the affected areas free of charge and dispatch operators and service mechanics to assist the relief efforts, which should amount to JPY 20 million equivalent. Komatsu will donate JPY 10 million through the Japanese Red Cross Society (total support of 30 million yen). Since establishing an office in Turkey in 1975, Komatsu has been engaging its locally anchored business in Turkey, a major market in the Middle East region. Komatsu will continue to provide material assistance to help the affected areas recover as quickly as possible while monitoring the conditions with MDS. Relief Aid to Earthquake Damages in Turkey and Syria Komatsu Ltd. (President and CEO: Hiroyuki Ogawa) (hereinafter “Komatsu”) expresses its deepest condolences to those who lost their lives in the recent earthquake that occurred in southeastern Turkey. Komatsu also extends its deepest sympathies to all those affected by the earthquake.... Read more...Wasel decides on two new Liebherr mobile construction cranes for further growth3 March 2023CranesLongstanding Liebherr partner expands fleet with an MK 88-4.1 and an MK 140 Plus MK concept enables multiple job sites in a single dayHVO fuelling and electric operation reduce emissions Liebherr has delivered two new mobile construction cranes to Wasel GmbH: an MK 88-4.1 and an MK 140 Plus. Based in Bergheim near Cologne, the crane company plans to expand further in the next few years. To achieve this, Wasel, a company of the Hagedorn Group, needs reliable and modern machines to meet the exact requirements of customers and to continue to drive forward its growth offensive. Biberach/Riß (Germany), 3 March 2023 – Wasel has been a dealer for Liebherr tower cranes for over 65 years and has also opted for Liebherr mobile construction cranes for many years. And now two more have joined the fleet. “We’re impressed by the MK concept. So it was clear to us that mobile construction cranes would also be part of our growth strategy,” said managing director Matthias Wasel at the handover. “The new mobile construction cranes optimally meet our customers’ requirements in terms of efficient and trouble-free crane operation.” Taxi crane concept for fast deployment The new taxi cranes mean Wasel can efficiently manage several construction sites in one day, as only one person is needed for travel, assembly and operation. The machines automatically unfold at the push of a button within just a few minutes, and without the need for any other resources. Wasel plans to primarily use the new cranes for jobs in the petrochemical industry and in urban areas, for projects such as roofing and façade work. The mobile construction cranes can be erected directly at buildings, thereby making optimal use of their jib length. MK 88-4.1 with ecological hybrid power concept The environmentally responsible use of construction machinery is becoming ever more important for building projects. The MK 88-4.1, which features a maximum lifting capacity of eight tonnes, scores particularly well in this respect. Thanks to its hybrid power concept, the crane can work with site electricity or another local power source without generating any CO2 emissions. Plus, it’s particularly quiet in electric operation, which can be a particular advantage for night-time construction sites in residential areas. If an external power source isn’t available, an efficient diesel generator ensures self-sufficient operation. The MK 88-4.1 offers a hook height of up to approx. 59 metres (45-degree luffed position) and a maximum radius of 45 metres. MK 140 Plus for extra-long reach The MK 140 Plus easily copes with situations where a longer reach is required. Liebherr’s largest mobile construction crane offers a jib length of 58.5 metres in trolley mode. Luffing mode even makes a radius of up to 65 metres possible. A special feature of the MK 140 Plus, which can lift a maximum of eight tonnes, is its VarioJib function. This allows the crane to be operated flexibly in trolley or luffing mode, according to requirements. While trolley mode enables strong handling performance in trolley operation, a hook height of up to 94.4 metres is possible in luffing mode. Both the superstructure and the undercarriage of the MK 88-4.1 and MK 140 Plus can be powered by HVO, a fuel produced from hydrogenated vegetable oils, and preferably from waste. Our production sites started delivering mobile construction cranes with this fuel last year. Fuelling with HVO helps to reduce emissions and promotes climate neutrality on construction sites in the long term. About Wasel Wasel GmbH offers a full range of services in the field of heavy duty logistics from its base in Bergheim, Rhineland, as well as ten other locations. Wasel is also a dealer for Liebherr tower cranes. The company currently has a fleet of over 700 machines and vehicles, including the latest mobile, lattice and crawler cranes, heavy goods vehicles, and tower cranes. With a team of more than 400 skilled employees, Wasel provides solutions for challenging tasks set by customers in industry, the petrochemical sector, and various other areas. Wasel has been part of the Hagedorn Group since June 2021 and is therefore part of one of Germany’s top service providers for modern structural change.... Read more...The Liebherr R 945 G8 Wows Customer in New Caledonia3 March 2023ExcavatorsThe R 945 sets the standard on performance and safetyPerfectly meets this customer’s special requirements with its great flexibility and versatilityThe solid reputation of the Liebherr brand was a key factor in the purchase decision Our New Caledonian customer YADAMWA chose the powerful R 945 crawler excavator, which is perfectly suited to particularly demanding open cast mining work. The company is a subcontractor for SLN (“Société Le Nickel”), the world’s largest producer of ferronickel, and uses the Liebherr tracked excavator primarily for the extraction of metal ores such as iron and nickel. Colmar (France), 02 March 2023 – In 2022, YADAMWA, a mining contractor based in New Caledonia, the South Pacific island group belonging to France, has purchased its first Liebherr machine. The first R 945 excavator has now been followed by an additional order for other Liebherr machines. Maximum performance and safety in extraction The working environment of a mining site is particularly demanding. The R 945 belongs to the generation 8 of Liebherr crawler excavators. The powerful 220 kW motor and automatic power adjustment make it a high-performance machine equally at home on all types of ground. The glazed operator’s cab of the R 945 offers a panoramic view of the working area, whatever the working situation. The windows are tinted to optimally protect the operator from the effects of temperature and glare. The cab has also been adapted to the standards in force on site. So, for example, a HEPA filtration system – mandatory on all mining sites in New Caledonia – has been installed to prevent asbestos particles from getting into the cab. Follow-up orders placed by YADAMWA: our customer was convinced by the quality and reliability Last year, our customer from New Caledonia purchased its first Liebherr machine for earthmoving at its open cast mine as well as for loading dump trucks, areas in which YADAMWA specialises. The R 945 has since been followed by two other Liebherr models. In addition, the customer opted to buy a used PR 724 bulldozer, which is operated by one of its subsidiaries. YADAMWA particularly appreciates the quality and reliability of Liebherr machines, which set them apart from the competition.... Read more...CASE CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT DELIVERS NEW ELECTRO HYDRAULIC JOYSTICK LEVERS FOR THE C-SERIES GRADERS3 March 2023TechnologyCASE CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT DELIVERS NEW ELECTRO HYDRAULIC JOYSTICK LEVERS FOR THE C-SERIES GRADERS CASE is launching the new joystick levers for the 836C and 856C motorgraders. The new joystick control delivers improved moldboard control, along with a range of steering upgrades which are an addition to the already great features of the grader. Benefits include: reduced effort & high precision thanks to the new electro-hydraulic joystick control.increased productivity & efficiency thanks to the Dual Power system, automatic gear shifting and Creep mode.best operator comfort & controllability thanks to optimised moldboard control and a redesigned side console.European Stage V emissions standard compliant thanks to the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCRoF) exhaust after-treatment system.Increased safety thanks to a rear-view camera reducing the need for the operator to continually turn when working. Joystick control The electro-hydraulic joystick control delivers a new level of moldboard control to the operator. The Electro-hydraulic joysticks are built into multi-adjustable armrests on each side of the operator’s seat. Each joystick is equipped with multiple roller switches and push buttons, to control the working hydraulic and steering functions. The redesigned side console now contains additional switches that allows adjust- ments to the system as per the operator’s needs. The new Joystick Steering allows the operator to steer the machine using the left-hand side joystick. All steering commands, including turning the front wheels, moving the frame articulation and setting the wheel lean are available through the joystick. The also new RTC function allows the operator to return all steering commands back to the centred position, by just pushing the dedicated button. This allows the op- erator to control the machine without having to take their hands off the joystick levers, reducing effort and increasing productivity. Comfort Steering, when activated, reduces the number of steering wheel turns required to fully turn the machine. This improves fine control of the steering wheel and makes it easier to complete a full U-turn, with just a small turn of the steering wheel. Combined Steering brings together the various steering commands into one control function. Once activated, front wheel steering, frame articulation and wheel lean work together as the operator turns the steering wheels or moves the joystick. This provides the operator with the ability to make narrow turns without having to think about which steering command to use individually. Additionally, with activated TwinLift, operators have the possibility to move both lift cylinders by using just the right-hand joystick. TwinLift makes it easier for the operator to correct the moldboard position with- out having to work both joysticks. This feature also assists the operator, when grading a wider slope, as the operator can simply lift the moldboard with one joystick to reposition the machine for the next pass. Dual Power The CASE C-Series graders are powered by the latest 6.7-litre six-cylinder FPT diesel engines. Using Hi-e- SCR2 technology, they feature a maintenance-free Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) and Selective Catalyt- ic Reduction (SCRoF) exhaust after-treatment system to comply with the European Stage V emissions standard. This combined system helps to create a compact engine compartment with exhaust tempera- tures in normal operation on average 200°C below that of a traditional particulate filter. The engines are application-engineered specifically to work in a grader operation, where fast torque response is required to maintain high productivity levels. A Dual Power system offers increased engine out- put from fourth to sixth gear. In the case of the 836C and 836C AWD, the engine develops 102kW (138hp) in first to third gears, shifting to 115kW (156hp) in fourth to sixth ratio. For the larger 856C and 856C AWD, the engine develops 129kW (173hp) in first to third, lifting to 142kW (190hp) in fourth to sixth gears. The power is transmitted through an Ergopower powershift transmission with six forward and three rev- erse gears. Automatic gear shifting optimises machine performance, leaving the operator free to con- centrate on moldboard and blade work. A no-stall torque converter and 100% automatic differential lock ensures maximum traction in all operating conditions. All-wheel drive models also feature a Creep mode, allowing the operator to set the forward speed almost independently of engine rpm. This makes the grader suitable for compaction work, reducing the overall fleet of machines required on site, increasing efficiency and cutting cost for the customer. Both the 4WD and 6WD models are available with optional 24” tyres, ideal for uneven soils and when low tyre bumping effect is required. Cutting-edge technology The CASE moldboard design maximises controllability, with a low friction, roller-mounted encapsulated slewing ring delivering jolt-free rotation torque. This moldboard design results in fewer greasing points, which reduce the maintenance time and eliminates the need for periodic replacement of wear inserts – reducing the costs for the customer. An A-Shape frame virtually eliminates lateral stress in off-set positioning and the central saddle can be set hydraulically in five different positions. The operator can rotate the blade over 90° to each side without any mechanical interference. An infinitely variable radius blade reduces traction effort and improves mate- rial roll in finishing operations. All C-Series CASE graders can be equipped from the factory prepared for the most commonly used blade control solutions. The grader can be delivered to the customer in a plug-and-play set-up, allowing rapid in- stallation of 2D and 3D machine control systems. These automatic blade control systems allow even the most inexperienced operator to achieve higher productivity and more constant output. Operator comfort The machines feature a rear-mounted, low-profile, ROPS/FOPS cab with heated and air-suspended seat, that delivers best-in-class levels of operator comfort and visibility, while keeping overall machine height low to avoid transport concerns. Wide, tinted glass provides an excellent view around the machines, with a full view of the mouldboard for the seated operator. A rear-view camera provides increased safety when reversing, reducing the need for the operator to continually turn when working. Boosting uptime and customer peace of mind with CASE® Service Solutions To further boost the productivity, profitability and uptime of the revised 836C & 856C, CASE has available a range of connected and non-connected after-sales services, CASE Service Solutions, which supports customers’ experiences of CASE equipment. The complete fleet management tool CASE SiteWatchTM enables geolocation, fleet security using geo- fences and unauthorised use alerts and flexible reporting. This includes key performance indicators (KPI) such as fuel consumption, utilization rate, machine hours and idle time, so productivity and profitability can be monitored and optimised. The data is easily accessible via a portal. CASE SiteConnect enhances telemetry data used by CASE’s Uptime Center team to provide dealers with alerts based on machine performance. Fast corrective action to minimize downtime is possible, as dealers remotely access machine data and take corrective action faster. This enables dealers to be proactive in managing customers’ machines and boosting uptime. Both SiteWatch and SiteConnect are available as options with the newly revised models. Customers benefit from greater peace of mind with CASE Care, CASE Protect and CASE Fluid Analysis. CASE Care is a standard planned maintenance programme, with genuine parts and lubricants. The programme is underpinned by the support, logistics and technical expertise of the wide-reaching CASE dealer network. CASE Protect is an extended warranty program and CASE Fluid Analysis aims to prevent major failures, optimising the asset reliability and extending operating lifetimes.... Read more...John Deere updates Precision Ag Technology3 March 2023TechnologyWalldorf, 02 March 2023- For many years, John Deere has offered reliable and high-performance Precision Ag Technology. In 2023, all essentials of the advanced equipment will receive an update to be prepared for the future. Important components are the brand-new John Deere G5 display family and the new JDLinkTM M modem. These updates make the John Deere Precision Ag Technology faster, more powerful, and more affordable for every farmer and contractor. The New John Deere G5 Display Family With the brand new G5 display family, John Deere delivers the latest technology directly to customers. Full HD resolution, additional memory and increased processing power make the G5 monitor one of the most powerful displays available. It comes with two portable versions, which can be used on all brands, two integrated monitors for specific John Deere machines and an Extended Monitor option. The G5 display is 10.1 inches and the G5Plus is 12.8 inches, meaning the G5 display family offers up to 33% more space for maps and information compared to its predecessors. Both portable displays offer additional protection through their water resistance (IP65). The John Deere G5Plus comes with AutoTrac™ and Section Control as standard. Of course, the full AEF ISOBUS compatibility remains. All G5 displays will retain the reliable and familiar user interface from Generation 4 displays. The combination of modern technology and familiar user interface provides an immediate performance boost without the need for lengthy re-learning. The new license program for advanced features means that farmers and contractors only pay for what they need, and upfront costs are reduced. Regular software updates are being developed and ensure that the G5 display family is already equipped for the future. The G5Plus Universal display and the G5 Universal display will be available for order later this year. The G5Plus CommandCenterTM and G5 CommandCenterTMwill be available on John Deere machines from Model Year 2024. The New John Deere JDLinkTM M and R Modem Farmers and contractors with a mixed fleet can continue to take advantage of connectivity between machines and the cloud. The brand new JDLinkTM M Modem offers an affordable alternative to the familiar JDLinkTM R Modem. The JDLinkTM M Modem is a plug and play solution, which allows mixed fleets to be fully equipped easily. The JDLinkTM M and R Modems are compatible with the SAE J1939 protocol and can process over 14 data points from different machine brands. This compatibility enables the management of an entire mixed fleet in just one portal: The John Deere Operations CenterTM. The John Deere StarFireTM 7000 The John Deere StarFireTM 7000 was introduced last year together with the new StarFire™ RTK signal. With an RTK accuracy of 2.5 cm and a pull-in time of fewer than 8 minutes, the new StarFireTM RTK signal offers a very attractive entry into RTK. The John Deere StarFireTM 7000 performs with even better connectivity than previous generations due to the additions of Galileo and Beidou satellite signals. The John Deere StarFireTM 7000 receivers are available for orders and delivery starts now. The John Deere Operations CenterTM JDLinkTM provides free of charge two-way connectivity for the automatic uploading of crop and machine data to the John Deere Operations Center™. With continuous updates, the Operations Center is constantly being improved and adapts to future needs. It will continue to be available free of charge for mobile devices and on the web. The new essentials of John Deere Precision Ag Technology make smart farming more effortless for customers. It will become increasingly easy to use, automated and is already seamless. All features and the advanced local dealer service and expertise, make farmers and contractors’ businesses more productive, profitable, and sustainable.... Read more...Doosan at SaMoTer – Italian Premiere of New DEVELON Brand3 March 2023Events / Technology– DEVELON Brand Builds on Achievements in Technology & Innovation – At SaMoTer 2023, Doosan Infracore will show its new DEVELON brand for the first time in Italy, confirming it as the company’s new global brand identity. Unveiled in January this year, the brand will be officially launched in March at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023, where the first DEVELON-branded machines will be shown. Doosan is changing its name but not its identity. Rather, it aims to strengthen its positioning as a leading company in the development of cutting-edge technological and construction site solutions that look, and develop beyond what is currently available – these are key concepts embodied in the name DEVELON itself: namely ‘Develop’ and ‘Onwards’. In recent years, Doosan has established an excellent reputation for developing construction site technology driven by an award-winning R&D team, working under the motto ‘Powered by Innovation’. Many new technologies have been developed to expand the company’s Smart Solutions portfolio of intelligent solutions for construction equipment. Notable among these are:• In-house electrification • Patented VBO hydraulics that aim to be the key to the most efficient hydraulic system available in an excavator today • The DX225LC-7X excavator with fully in-house developed semi-automatic digging assist technology as standard • The market introduction of Dozers in North America Flagship innovations include Concept-X, a winner at the 2020 SaMoTer Innovation Awards, the world’s first integrated control solution for the entire construction process. Innovative solutions at SaMoTer 2023 SaMoTer Innovation Award 2023: EREV 14W electric excavator awarded As in 2020, Doosan has again been recognised as a pioneer in innovation, by winning another important award at the 2023 SaMoTer Innovation Awards. The latest award has been won for Doosan’s new electric 14W EREV wheeled excavator, the most advanced and state-of-the-art vehicle of its kind. Designed with a regenerative transmission system (eDrive), an advanced swing system (eSwing) and eWorking systems it ensures maximum efficiency with zero emissions. Built with an aerodynamic design, the 14W EREV maximizes peripheral vision even at long distances for optimal safety and protection. By offering 360-degree coverage of the driver’s field of vision, the operator can easily detect obstacles from any angle and in any urban environment. With its centre of gravity located in the undercarriage, this vehicle provides excellent stability both while working and driving. In addition to providing great stability and power, the 14W EREV also offers impeccable build quality that provides peace of mind when undertaking any project. New DX20ZE Electric Mini-Excavator SaMoTer provides the perfect opportunity to showcase the new Doosan DX20ZE two-tonneelectric mini-excavator for the first time in Italy. This machine combines its safe, quiet and zero emission design with the successful characteristics and high performance of the equivalent diesel mini-excavator for working in confined spaces. With a width of just 950 mm, the new DX20ZE can pass through narrow passages and entrances/exits, making it ideal for working in confined space indoor applications such as demolition and basement construction. In addition to indoor projects, the vehicle is ideal for operating in urban centres, in low-noise areas and for night work. The DX20ZE is driven by a powerful, in-house developed 20 kWh Lithium ion battery pack, with all of the electrical system and components on the machine optimized for work in harsh environments. A quick-charger system restores 80% of the battery power after only one hour of charging, whilst the on-board charger restores the maximum charge after six hours of charging. The Revolutionary Transparent Bucket Among other exciting new products from Doosan that offer added value to customers through innovation, the revolutionary Transparent Bucket system is among the best known and has achieved unprecedented success and attention at every show where it has been presented. This is the world’s first safety system (patented) that allows the wheel loader operator to view the blind spots in front of the bucket, thanks to front top and bottom mounted cameras that record and combine the images in real time on the monitor in the cab, using a curved projection method. The innovative system, besides ensuring greater safety for the operator and other workers on site, improves operational efficiency as it offers a forward perspective view during loading/unloading operations or during the transport of materials such as aggregates, sand and earth. Doosan/DEVELON is working on developing the system even further with new artificial intelligence algorithms for people and object recognition. DL420CVT-7 Wheel Loader with Continuously Variable Transmission At the 2023 edition of SaMoTer, Doosan will be showing the DL420CVT-7 wheel loader, a wheel loader with hybrid transmission, i.e. hydrostatic and mechanical at the same time. It hasa continuously variable transmission (CVT) which manages to deliver continuous power to the wheels independently from the engine and in a variable manner because it switches easily from hydrostatic transmission to mechanical transmission as speeds increase and according to the traction needs, without ever impacting the engine which will be able to work at a lower and more constant number of revolutions. Thanks to this technology, the DL420CVT-7 provide torque to the wheels that is always available even at low revs, with maximum acceleration (no rev reduction impacts on productivity) and allows faster V cycles with a reduction in fuel consumption of up to 22%. The advantage is not only a lower environmental impact, and therefore lower noise and reduced consumption along with greater productivity, but it is also ensures greater comfort for the operator who does not need to use the brake (hydraulic deceleration) and there is less wheel slip with a positive impact on running costs on tyre wear, brake wear and extended axle oil life. DL85-7 Representing the New Compact Loaders from Doosan Another prominent product at the Doosan/DEVELON stand will be the new DL85-7 wheel loader representing the recently launched range of five models (DL60-7, DL65-7, DL80-7, DL85-7 and DL80TL-7). These compact machines set a new industry standard in their class for productivity, flexibility, comfort, safety and reliability. These new machines offer a comprehensive package of modern technologies, including a powerful Stage V engine, hydrostatic all-wheel drive transmission, 100% differential lock on both axles, and powerful and versatile hydraulic systems. Picture Caption – Group photo: from left, Costantino Radis (President of the jury for the Samoter Innovation Awards); Maurizio Danese (Veronafiere CEO); Norman Tasca (DoosanSouth Europe Regional Manager) and Sara Quotti Tubi (Veronafiere Event Manager) For more on Doosan construction equipment, please visit the website: www.eu.doosanequipment.com... Read more...First Time in Italy for New Bobcat Products at SaMoTer 20231 March 2023Excavators / Telehandlers– Compact Tractors, E19e Electric Excavator & TL25.60 Telehandler – Bobcat Is exhibiting at SaMoTer 2023, the most important exhibition in Italy for the construction machinery sector, presenting several recently launched product lines and modelsfor the first time in the country. SaMoTer provides an ideal platform to show visitors the new Ground Maintenance Equipment (GME) range from Bobcat, which includes compact tractors, small articulated loaders (SAL), mini track loaders, mowers and turf equipment. Building on the company’s success in the North American market, Bobcat aims to rank within the top three GME players in Europe and to double growth in the global GME market by 2027. Compact Tractors Provide Versatility for Countless Applications All Bobcat GME models are robust and versatile, providing excellent productivity and great comfort. Representing the range, a cabbed version of the new CT2535 compact tractor will be on display on the Bobcat stand at SaMoTer for the first time in the Italian market. Bobcat is offering three Compact Tractor platforms – the 1000, 2000 and 4000 series – which feature nine new models from 25 to 58 HP designed to meet the different needs of customers in the EMEA region. Each model varies in size and engine horsepower, with the option to choose between manual and hydrostatic transmission, and between open canopies (ROPS) and cabs. Bobcat’s proven Bob-Tach system comes as standard on all machines with the front-end loader option, enabling users to switch effortlessly between different Bobcat attachments, to carry out multiple jobs easily, delivering value and versatility for customers’ businesses. Francesca Biagini, Italy, Greece & Iberia Attachments – GME Sales Manager, comments:“These machines are versatile tool carriers thanks to their total compatibility with a wide range of Bobcat attachments that allow users to maximize productivity in any application such as gardening, agriculture, construction, roads and snow clearing, to name a few.” Videos of the new Compact Tractors: Action video https://youtu.be/1nI3xwK19W8 Machine walkaround video https://youtu.be/OJTeLTEJENc New Bobcat TL25.60 Super Compact Telehandler Another star at SaMoTer 2023 is the super compact TL25.60 telehandler, launched at Bauma 2022 and being presented for the first time at SaMoTer, Ideal for the construction, rental and general handling sectors, the TL25.60 is the eleventh fixed-frame telehandler model in the latest R-Series range from Bobcat and is the smallest machine in the line. Designed for maximum ease of use, the TL25.60 offers excellent stability, optimal comfort and safe operation in a wide range of applications. Equipped with a 75 HP Bobcat Stage V engine, the machine boasts a rated operating capacity of 2500 kg and a maximum lift height of 5.9 m. Despite its super-compact dimensions, the TL25.60’s cab is identical to that in the largerBobcat R-series models, making it the most spacious compact telehandler on the market today. Action video https://youtu.be/JsZ0Sh7or10 New E19e Electric Mini-Excavator The Bobcat stand will offer the opportunity to see a selection of the company’s most popular mini-excavators, including the E20z, E27z and E55z/E60 models, as well as the first appearance of the new 2 tonne E19e electric mini-excavator, introduced in October 2022, part of the company’s ever-expanding range of electrified machines. The E19e offers zero emissions, low noise, reduced vibration and the same excellent performance as the popular diesel-powered E19 model. This machine will build on the success of the E10e, the world’s first electric 1 tonne mini-excavator from Bobcat, demonstrating that the company is a true pioneer in the field of battery-powered machines and will continue to invest in research and development to accelerate this important trend. The E19e is also extremely versatile, with a wide range of compatible attachments available. For example, Bobcat’s hydraulic grapple is the only one on the market for this size category. Action video https://youtu.be/0hljmHt9RWU For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com... Read more...Hyundai Doosan Infracore to Mass Produce Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines in 20251 March 2023Engines – Prototype to be rolled out in 2023, validation on vehicle in 2024, and full-scale mass production in 2025 – – Plans to exhibit full line–up of engines at CONEXPO 2023 – Hyundai Doosan Infracore (HDI) accelerates engine development after finishing the design of its hydrogen internal combustion engines (hydrogen engines) and rolling out the prototype. The hydrogen engine under development by HDI is an 11-litre class engine that produces a power output of 300 kW (402 HP) and a torque of 1700 Nm at 2000 RPM. It satisfies Tier 5 / Stage 5 / Euro 7 regulations which require the emission to be 90% reduced to the current level to meet Zero CO2 (below 1g/kwh) and Zero Impact Emission (Zero Emission in EU). Hydrogen engines are powered by low-purity hydrogen, making them durable, economical and energy-dense, which makes them the most suitable engine system for mid-to-large-sizedvehicles and vehicles for long distances. A single charge of 10 minutes enables a distance ofup to 500 km, and they are 25-30% more economical than fuel cells or battery packs whenvehicle price and maintenance costs are considered. HDI plans to leverage its existing engine technology and facilities to reduce costs and accelerate commercialization. The new hydrogen engines will be installed on commercial vehicles such as trucks and large buses, and construction equipment for validation by 2024, and full-scale mass production is planned for 2025. HDI will showcase various products including H2ICE, EV battery packs and plug-in full hybrid powertrains at the CONEXPO 2023 to be held in the U.S. in March. HDI’s Engine Department booth will be located at S84044 on the 2nd floor of the South Hall. HDI’s Head of the Engine Department, Kim Joong-soo, said, “Hydrogen internal combustion engines will be used in mid-to-large-sized commercial vehicles such as trucks, buses and construction equipment and mid-to-large-sized power generators. We will put in the utmost effort to realize carbon neutrality in response to the eco-friendly market by developing green hydrogen-related technologies in line with increasingly strict carbon emission regulations.”... Read more...BRONZE MEDAL FOR TVH’S SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS23 February 2023NewsParts specialist TVH has been awarded the EcoVadis Bronze Medal in recognition of its sustainability efforts in 2022. It is the first time that TVH has been honoured by EcoVadis, one of the most important rating organizations for sustainability worldwide. TVH was presented with the Bronze Medal because it ranks in the top 20% of the best-rated companies in its industry, according to EcoVadis benchmarks. The parts specialist scores especially high in the field of ethics: the company secured a spot in the top 8%, thanks to its efforts in setting up compliance policies (e.g. fraud, conflict of interest, corruption). NEW MILESTONE FOR TVH EcoVadis is the world’s largest and most trusted provider of business sustainability ratings, with a network of more than 100,000 companies rated. The organization rates all member companies in multiple areas, including environment, labour and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement. Anton Theunynck, Head of Sustainability at TVH, affirms that sustainability has become of strategic importance for TVH: “A lot of people worked hard last year to achieve progress on multiple fronts. It is thanks to their efforts that we were able to achieve this medal. Surely, this recognition is a new milestone in our sustainability performance and we look forward to achieving even better results in the future.”... Read more...New Showcase Video for DEVELON Will Highlight Brand’s Vision Moving Forward23 February 2023News– The video will share new details about the company’s focus for developing onwards – Following last month’s announcement about the company’s new brand and shared visions for worldwide markets moving forward, DEVELON (formerly Doosan construction equipment) will provide further details in a new video. The video will go live at 5 am CET on 27th February 2023 on the YouTube channel. The video will communicate the timeline and heritage associated with the former brand, as well as highlight the brand’s new vision and generate awareness for DEVELON. It will serve to build momentum for the new brand as the company works toward the full public launch at CONEXPO 2023. The video will open with information on the company’s long history in the construction industry and will transition into an interview with the CEO of Hyundai Doosan Infracore, Young-cheul Cho. Mr Cho will speak on the reasoning behind the new brand name and introduce the vision and purpose of the brand. “When coming up with a new name, we had many ideas that could represent our brand’s direction and value,” says Mr Cho. “That is why we came up with the combination of the two words ‘Develop’ and ‘Onwards’. We believe these words show the brand’s purpose to advance the development of our world with new products and solutions.” The CEO of Hyundai Doosan Infracore, Seung Hyun Oh, will also be featured in the video and aims to assure DEVELON customers of the company’s continuous commitment to satisfaction and innovative solutions. “I have witnessed all the changes our company has gone through,” says Mr Oh. “From Daewoo to Doosan, and now DEVELON, even though the brand name changes, I can proudly say that our core value, to satisfy the needs of customers through endless product and technological innovation, hasn’t changed.” Dedication to changing the future for customers and providing value beyond the product is of utmost importance for DEVELON, which is why the brand values will remain the same. DEVELON is excited about the opportunity to build a better future and continue to evolve with the shifting market. The DEVELON brand launch will continue in March at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 in Las Vegas. Visitors will have the ability to see DEVELON-branded equipment, the history of the brand, new products and the future of the company. The DEVELON booth will be located in the Festival Grounds lot, F9153. For more on Doosan construction equipment, please visit the website: www.eu.doosanequipment.com... Read more...Xwatch dealer, Allan J Hargreaves, installs 2000th Xwatch System on 36-tonne two-piece boom Liebherr23 February 2023Safety / TechnologyFamily-owned Civil Engineering company, PF Murphy & Son’s, based in Banbridge, County Down has added a brand new 36-tonne R936 Compact Liebherr excavator to its fleet. The new two-piece boom Liebherr is a specialist model and is the largest compact crawler excavator of its kind and is the very first model to arrive in the UK and Ireland. Alex Reed, a senior engineer, from Allan J Hargreaves, had the pleasure of installing the 2000th Xwatch system to roll off the production line on this machine. The R396 machine is now fully fitted with an XW5 system, which offers height control, slew control, and an RCI (rated capacity indicator). Talking about the Xwatch product Alex said, “I have been the sole Xwatch installer for Hargreaves since we began working with the company, around three years ago. I have installed upwards of 150 systems personally, therefore it was great to install Xwatch’s 2000th system, which is a significant milestone. A high percentage of our customers specifically request Xwatch. They are very good systems, which are a lot more reliable than competitor brands. They are also easy to use and well-built kit.” Alex added, “Fergus from Xwatch has recently conducted some training with some of our engineers, as the demand for the systems continues to rise, we now have a ‘team’ of Xwatch-qualified installers.” Allan Hargreaves, MD of AJH Plant echoed Alex’s comments, he said “ The systems are very reliable and operator familiarisation of the control features is straightforward and uncomplicated, which is particularly important for a hire fleet.” Allan added, “The feedback we have had from customers has been the best we have ever had about an aftermarket safety product. It’s more reliable than competing brands and performs better and the product support meets our needs as a company.” Jemma Dycer-Hopkins, Xwatch UK Business Development Manager, commented on the 2000th system “We are delighted to have reached the significant milestone of selling and fitting 2000th systems – also the fact that the orders show no sign of slowing down. We would like to thank Allan J Hargreaves and all of our partner companies for putting their trust in the Xwatch product and we look forward to continuing to provide our customers and dealers with the best of the best in safety!” About the XW5 The XW5 offers a total safe working envelope around the machine and operator enabling the control of the machine’s height, slew, and rated capacity indication. This comprehensive system covers every eventually when considering both operator and machine safety, offering complete peace of mind. The XW5 can be configured to work on any type of hydraulic excavator. Overload, height, and slew limitation are controlled using proportional soft-stop hydraulic valves providing accurate and repeatable performance without detriment to the machine. A basic dig depth monitor is available when the RCI is not required. If hazards arise, XW5 will automatically flip to the relevant display page. Tracked machines have automatic sectored lifting duties for over the front/rear operation and over the side. Load charts are ISO10567 compliant. Visit XW5 Series total protection height slew Limitation & RCI (xwatch.co.uk)... Read more...Brandt Named Exclusive Canadian Dealer for Sleipner Product Line.23 February 2023NewsMining equipment operators to benefit from coast-to-coast support. Regina, Saskatchewan – The Brandt Group of Companies is pleased to announce that, as of January 26, 2023, they have been named the exclusive Canadian distributor for the complete range of heavy equipment mobilization products from Sleipner Finland Ltd. Sleipner products are proven to deliver travel-time reductions of up to 85% when transporting tracked or wheeled equipment in tonne-class sizes from 30 to 570, including front shovels, large dozers, excavators, wheel loaders, trucks, drills, and more. They are used in more than 50 countries worldwide, working in the mining, quarrying, and construction industries. “Our customers have told us that they need these innovative products because of the efficiencies that they deliver for mining operations,” says Brandt VP of Sales – Mining, Jim Thompson. ”Sleipner is a world-class manufacturer and we’re proud to add this premium product line to our existing heavy equipment lineup.” Enhancing the mobility of production-class equipment delivers multiple benefits for producers including increased safety, productivity increases of up to 20%, lower overall operating costs due to reduced fuel and maintenance costs, and a measurable reduction in carbon emissions. “Partnering with Brandt was a natural fit for Sleipner as we expand our frontline presence in the Canadian market,” says Sleipner CEO, Jukka Koponen. “Our customers deserve the very best and Brandt’s long-term mining industry experience, parts and service infrastructure, and reputation for customer support are unmatched.” A full range of Sleipner products, along with replacement parts and service personnel, will be accessible via Brandt’s coast-to-coast dealer network – Canada’s most comprehensive. For more information, contact sales@brandt.ca or 1-888-2BRANDT (1-888-227-2638). For more on Sleipner, visit www.sleipner.com.... Read more...BIG Ideas at the Plantworx Construction Machinery and Technology Exhibition – for start-up companies18 February 2023Events / TechnologyPlantworx 2023 (13th- 15th June 23, East of England Arena, Peterborough) will provide a platform for start-ups engineering the future, connecting them to some of the UK’s most influential companies, potential investors, and media. The BIG Ideas Zone at Plantworx will be a hotspot for the industry’s newest and brightest rising stars. The BIG Ideas Zone- will be a showcase and forum for smaller companies (SMEs) with BIG Ideas at the Plantworx 2023 exhibition. Plantworx wants companies with products, technologies, or services new to the construction industry – which can make a Big IMPACT on the sector. Offerings that can improve efficiency, sustainability, safety, or security. The BIG Ideas package comprises: An exhibition pod, under the BIG Ideas banner located close to the main entrance of the show.Participation in the VIP preview event – with trade press and invited contractors, specifiers, influencers and opinion formers (on 12.06.23.).Starred listing on the Plantworx website and in the Plantworx App.Invite and tickets to the CEA Conference and Awards evening (30th March 23) providing excellent networking opportunities with key decision makers. The selection process: The Plantworx organisers will determine which companies have products, technologies or services appropriate to the Big IDEAS promotion. Contact rob.oliver@plantworx.co.ukor louise.carney@plantworx.co.uk in the first instance. CEE (Construction Equipment Events) Director Rob Oliver said, “We are looking for ‘start-up’ companies with products, technologies or services new to the construction industry – which can make a Big IMPACT on the sector – which can improve efficiency, sustainability, safety or security. We are encouraging companies who think they fit the criteria to get in touch to discuss the discounted package.” The package is being made available to Big IDEAS companies for £395.00 plus VAT (the package is worth in the region of £4K plus VAT) About Plantworx Plantworx 2023 will be the show where emerging and disruptive technologies will feature alongside construction equipment, innovation, technology products and services. The show remains the UK’s biennial showcase for the construction sector – and will lead visitors into the future of construction. With a combination of live demonstrations and the latest in machine technology and support products, Plantworx offers a valuable experience for construction sector professionals. Over 350 exhibitors are expected to be present at the show with circa 15,000 visitors over the three days of the show. Confirmed exhibitors include Caterpillar, Hitachi, JCB, Hidromek, SMT (Volvo) Takeuchi, Sany, Sunward Europe, Yanmar, Liugong, Mecalac, John Deere, Avant, Kubota, Doosan and Bobcat and BOMAG. Also expect to see attachment specialists Auger Torque and BPH Attachments, leading tiltrotator companies including Engcon, and Steelwrist. Handling and lifting specialists Manitou and Merlo have also confirmed alongside, remote control demolition experts, Brokk, which will be at the event showing the company’s latest demolition robots. The full exhibitor list can be found here Exhibitor List – Plantworx 2023 For further information about Plantworx visit Home – Plantworx 2023... Read more...VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT INVESTS IN BATTERY PACK PRODUCTION AT EXCAVATOR PLANT18 February 2023PlantVolvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has announced an investment into battery pack production at its excavator plant in Changwon, South Korea, signalling once again its ambition to drive industry transformation with sustainable solutions. The Changwon plant in South Korea specializes in the production of excavators and is the biggest excavator production site in Volvo CEThe SEK 80 million ($7.8 million) investment from Volvo Group will enable the plant to begin manufacturing a wide range of battery pack solutions for the Volvo GroupThis is another important step forward towards the company’s Science Based Targets commitments and its ambitions to be fossil free, with 35% of machine sales to be electric by 2030 With the SEK 80 million (around $7.8 million) investment from Volvo Group, a new production facility and equipment will be built at the Changwon plant in South Korea – which at around 1.1 million sq. m is the largest excavator production site in Volvo CE, producing around 55% of its total excavator volumes. The new facility at the Changwon plant will produce a wide range of common electric storage solutions (battery packs) for Volvo Group and become a core competence center for electric excavators. This will enable Volvo Group to offer more sustainable solutions to its APAC markets in a more flexible, cost-effective and agile way and will include supply chain, manufacturing and logistics. Andy Knight, Head of Operations Excavator and Managing Director of Volvo Group Korea, says: “As the largest plant in Volvo CE and the core site for excavator development and production, Changwon is at the forefront of our shift to a sustainable future. “This investment is an important milestone in our electrification roadmap and supports our recent investments in production facilities for electric excavators. Changwon is ideally located close to battery module supply partners and other key suppliers in South Korea to meet the needs of customers in the future. We are also home to a highly skilled and motivated workforce who are fully committed to meeting our future environmental targets.” The new production facility will be built inside the current component workshop at Changwon – without disruption to the existing operation. Once complete the facility will be approximately 2,500 sq. meters including assembly and logistics areas. The building work will begin in April 2023, with battery pack production expected to commence in June 2024. Coming soon after an announcement to invest in the production of electric wheel loaders at its plant in Arvika, Sweden, and electric haulers from the company’s production facility in Braås, Sweden, this is another sign that Volvo CE is committed to becoming completely fossil free by 2040 – in line with the Paris Agreement and as laid out in its Science Based Target goals. And it is taking another step forward in its ambition to transform the industry through electromobility and other more sustainable solutions. Volvo CE has already successfully introduced compact electric excavators to the global market with the ECR25 Electric, ECR18 Electric, EC18 Electric and the mid-size EC230 Electric excavators. Together with its compact electric wheel loaders, Volvo CE has one of the largest electric ranges on the market.... Read more...10,000th ADT Leaves the Production Line in Norway16 February 2023MachineAfter 50 years of production, the Elnesvågen plant outside Molde in Norway, where the Doosan range of Articulated Dump Trucks (ADTs) is produced, is this month celebrating the completion of the 10,000th machine to be built at the plant. According to Plant Manager, Jan Roger Lindset, the Doosan ADT with production number 851951 is to be delivered to Rental Group in Norway. Production began at the plant in 1972 when the business was called Glamox. Since then, the brand has had a number of names such as Moxy, Moxy Industrial, Brown Engineering, Moxy Trucks, Moxy Engineering and in 2008, the name changed to Doosan when the South Korean manufacturer bought the factory and the product. In 2021, Hyundai Heavy Industries bought the Doosan construction equipment range including the ADT line, and the name of the business was changed to Hyundai Doosan Infracore (HDI). There are currently 150 employees at the Elnesvågen plant, but with both Doosan and Hyundai ADTs now being produced at the factory, the workforce is expected to expand to meet an expected 40% growth in production. The Doosan ADT Range – Best-in-Class Performance The Doosan ADT range comprises two 6×6 models – the DA30-7 and DA45-7 Stage V compliant machines – the DA30-7 has a payload of 28 tonne, while that of the DA45-7 is 41 tonne. The range was extended at Bauma 2022 with the launch of a new 4×4 version of the DA45-7 ADT, intended to compete with rigid dump trucks (RDTs) in the 40-tonne class. Like all Doosan ADTs, the DA30-7 and DA45-7 models feature an articulation hinge positioned behind the turning ring to provide equal weight distribution to the front axle even during maximum steer articulation. This combined with a free-swinging rear tandem bogie ensures equal distribution of weight to each wheel and guarantees permanent 6-wheel contact and drive for equal power distribution and excellent performance particularly on difficult terrains such as soft ground, uneven surfaces, very steep slopes, tight turns or a combination of all of these difficult conditions. Collectively, the forward turning point, the unique tandem bogie and the sloping rear frame results in ‘best in class’ rough and soft terrain capabilities. The unique body shape and sloping frame ensure equal load distribution on all the wheels making these machines the best haulers for soft terrain work. The design of the articulation also provides equal load distribution on the wheels on both the left and right hand side when turning, which is very important for the traction and stability of the machines. All of these outstanding features are available on the Doosan Stage V DA30-7 and DA45-7 ADT models. In the new 4×4 ADT, the front truck and cab unit is the same as in the original 6×6 model, with modifications being made on the rear dumper unit only. Featuring a ZF EP8-420 transmission, the 4×4 DA45-7 is a two-axle ADT with twin wheels at the rear, and with a dumper section similar to that on RDTs in the 40-tonne class. Superior Performance in Difficult Conditions Compared to RDTs “With superior operation on poorer roads, smoother surfaces and steeper terrain, the aim of our new 4×4 machine is to challenge RDTs in the 40-tonne class, by providing a dumper product that delivers much more than RDTs,” says Beka Nemstsveridze, ADT Product Manager at Doosan. As well as performing better in conditions that are tough for RDTs, the new 4×4 DA45-7 ADT has a width of less than 4 m to avoid the need for special transportation and offers a better turning radius than a comparable RDT. The shorter turning radius and the design of the rear dumper unit, which is more suited to carrying flat and heavy rocks, provide particular advantages in the mining and tunnelling industries. The latter are growing markets for ADTs, and include pioneering, short-term mining projects, quarrying and contract mining industries, especially those in southern Africa, the UK and Australia. Construction and bulk earthmoving contractors involved in roads, dams, airports, landfills and development projects are also large users of ADTs. Together these areas make the ADT market a wide and varied one, thereby ensuring a large customer base. For more information on Doosan construction machinery, please visit www.eu.doosanequipment.com... Read more...Goldhofer PST/SL-E 8 heavy duty module in action for the Kiel Canal Waterways and Shipping Authority16 February 2023UncategorisedFerries themselves have to be transported at regular intervals. This was recently the case for the Kiel Canal Waterways and Shipping Authority at the Yard in Rendsburg, where a new procedure was implemented for the first time as a faster and more practicable method of moving vessels ashore for inspection purposes. Previously the vessels, weighing up to 130 t, were maneuvered onto a shiplift consisting of a lower and upper cradle, which was winched ashore and along the rails leading to the shipbuilding hall. With the introduction of heavier hybrid ferries (approx. 180 t) and on the basis of an economic assessment for upcoming refurbishment measures on the approach to the shipbuilding hall, it was decided that a wheel-based transportation system on a level surface would be preferable to replacing the rails. The plan was to use a heavy duty vehicle to pull the vessel ashore, pick it up and transport it between the shiplift, the wash yard and the shipbuilding hall, and set it down there. After a thorough study of the options available, the Waterways and Shipping Authority chose a heavy-duty self-propelled 8-axle module manufactured by Goldhofer. The self-propelled transporter also features electronic multiway steering, which makes it possible to manoeuvre the vessel in the confined space of the shipyard and set it down with pinpoint accuracy. The only adjustment required to the ship was a modification of the upper cradle of the shiplift to permit the self-propelled module to be positioned beneath it so as to pick up the load with the help of the hydraulic axle compensation. The Nobiskrug drop-ramp inland ferry, which can carry up to 45 tons, was the first vessel to be handled using the new system. The ferry has a total length of 32 m and a total width of 9.8 m and weighs around 130 t. It was brought to the Rendsburg shipyard to undergo maintenance and a basic overhaul following a regular inspection. The ferry was positioned on the shiplift and brought ashore on the slipway using the Goldhofer PST/SL-E self-propelled transporter as a tow tractor. The self-propelled transporter was then positioned under two upper cradles and picked up the ferry using the transporter’s hydraulic axle stroke and moved to the shipbuilding hall for the inspection and maintenance work.... Read more...Two Rokbak RA30s working on mega USA pipeline project16 February 2023GlobalTwo Rokbak RA30s are proving vital to the largest ever pipe installation of its kind in Utah, America. When Utah-based contractor BHI was awarded low bid on a three-mile stretch of canal essential to the irrigation around the largest city in Uintah County, in the north-eastern part of the state, they knew that extensive excavation and backfill would be on the cards and that it would require the most robust and reliable equipment. A hive of activity in the Beehive State BHI has been tasked by Uintah Water Conservancy District to enclose a 78” High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipe across a vast portion of the Steinaker Service Canal near the city of Vernal. Owing to a water shortage over the past several years, the Uintah Water Conservancy District has been working to improve provision to the surrounding area, with the Steinaker Service Canal Enclosure Project. The existing channel is being converted into a pressurised pipeline to provide a firm water supply to land in the surrounding Ashley Valley, with the aim to minimise and even eliminate loss of water through seepage and evaporation, maximising the amount of water available for irrigation purposes. Upon completion, the canal enclosure will be the largest diameter HDPE pipe installation in the United States of America. BHI is self-performing the entire scope of the project, which includes site preparations, excavation, pipe installation, back-fill and restoration of the canal. To handle the large-scale earth-moving, BHI needed articulated haulers that would be up to the challenge, day after day, in an intense six-month timeline. Operating with ease Rokbak dealer Rasmussen Equipment, of Salt Lake City, supplied two RA30s to BHI on a rental-purchase option in September 2022. The haulers were received so positively on site that the purchase was completed before the end of the year. The RA30s are tasked with transporting rock and rubble to excavate the area in order to install the pipe, later they will support with the subsequent backfill. With the capacity to transport a payload of up to 28 mt (30.9 t), a maximum engine power of 276 kW (370 hp), a heaped capacity of 17.5m3 (22.9yd3), and a maximum torque of 1880 Nm @ 1400 rpm, the Rokbak RA30 can be relied upon to all-weather-operate, transporting loads effectively and efficiently, with optimal traction in difficult terrain and combating steep inclines with ease. “The RA30 is a top-performing machine,” says BHI operator Reese Shultz, who has already clocked up over 2,000 hours alongside colleague Dustin Gardner in the two RA30s since work commenced in September. “It’s fuel efficient, powerful and with features like the tailgate helping to maximise load retainage as well as multiple reverse gears enabling quick cycle times, it’s been designed for productivity. It also has excellent mobility, it’s relatively narrow (10ft 6in at its maximum width) which is hugely beneficial in confined job site spaces.” “One of the first things I noticed when I started using the RA30 was that it has proper visibility, from a comfy seat, in a quiet cab and the HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system works really well,” explains Dustin. “It’s a real solid ride and it’s comfortable to operate over various ground conditions.” It’s not hard to see why. Cushioned bump stops on the steering cylinders reduce strain on the operator over an extensive shift and a 45° steering angle at either side creates a turning radius of just 27ft 9in (8,470 mm), resulting in superior manoeuvrability. There is a spacious, ROPS/FOPS-compliant, pressurised cab. Smoother gear shifting accentuates these levels of comfort, alongside other benefits like faster cycle times, lower fuel consumption and reduced carbon emissions. Exceeding expectations Rasmussen Equipment has provided Utah contractors with equipment solutions for over 75 years. That wealth of experience combined with the RA30’s capabilities for taking on the toughest tasks and terrain has proven to be an ideal combination. “It’s always easy to work with BHI because of the professionalism and knowledge throughout the organisation,” says Rasmussen Equipment’s Sales Representative Brandon Dorney, who has worked closely with BHI for many years and facilitates the equipment support provided by Rasmussen Equipment. “We enjoy keeping up with the demands of BHI and coming up with solutions to individual projects. When BHI outlined this particular job with its challenging earthmoving aspects, we knew they needed Rokbak haulers.” With the Steinaker Service Canal Enclosure Project due to run until April 2023 and a huge amount of groundwork still to be done, BHI expects to put the RA30s through their paces for a good while yet.... Read more...Bobcat One-Stop Shop Provides Increased Flexibility for Financing Bobcat Machine & Attachment Purchases16 February 2023Finance– Wider choice of finance options gives more support in tougher times – In the face of rapidly changing prices and market conditions, Bobcat is now offering customers a new one-stop shop selection of attractive hire purchase financing options for buying new Bobcat products. The range of finance schemes covers not only traditional Bobcat products such as loaders, mini-excavators, telehandlers and attachments but also the light compaction, compact wheel loader, small articulated loader and compact tractor ranges added in the last 2-3 years. Hayley Quinn, Finance Manager, UK, Ireland, Baltics and Scandinavia for Doosan Bobcat EMEA, says: “We have added to our roster of finance products available through our dealer network to provide more for new and existing Bobcat customers looking to develop and maintain their businesses, especially in these difficult times. Our finance range has been developed with care with our customers in mind, to provide the solutions and flexibility to suit their business needs.“ Aimed at customers in all markets, including construction, rental, agriculture, horticulture, waste, recycling and landscaping, the selection of finance options now includes: Rental with Service0% for 2 years0.99% for 3 yearsHalf Price Rentals in the first yearUp to 180 day deferralAnnual PaymentsSeasonal PaymentsAgility All details and applications for the finance schemes are available via Authorised Bobcat Dealers in the UK. Inclusion in lease financing can also be part of the new national version of the company’s successful BobCARE Planned Maintenance (PM) programme for customer machines in the UK, the first of its type in Europe. The new BobCARE plan ensures that costs are fully predictable – the price is final and clearly stated right at the start of the contract. This means that maintenance costs are completely resistant to inflation. ‘All-in-One Approach’ Nowadays, a service contract is a natural part of the machine sales process – the current market trend is to perceive service packages as a machine option. Therefore, Bobcat’s lease partner is fully supporting the company’s service offerings and will support an ‘all-in-one approach’, where the machine, attachments, Protection Plus, BobCARE and financing are all covered by a monthly fee so that customers can solely focus on developing their own businesses. John Christofides, Regional Sales Director for Bobcat EMEA, added: “The breadth of our finance offering is meant to make these tough times easier. They will provide the help our customers are looking for to combat the current climate, market changes, fuel price increases, and so on. As well as weathering tough market conditions, our finance plans also help customers meet increased demand.“ For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com... Read more...SANY debuts new electric mini16 February 2023EventsSANY UK & Ireland returned to the Executive Hire Show last week, following their extremely successful debut at the event in 2022. Similarly, to last year, the heavy machinery manufacturer found their stand to be well attended on both days of the event, with their new 2-tonne electric mini excavator, the SY19E, taking centre stage as it was unveiled to the UK market for the first time. As well as zero emissions, the compact and innovatively designed SY19E with fully electric drive is equipped with a lithium iron phosphate (cobalt free) battery which allows for faster, safer and more efficient charging as well as a significantly longer battery life (up to 3,500 full charge cycles) to reduce total cost of ownership. Featuring a single automotive standard charging socket, the machine offers a fully flexible charging solution that includes a fast charge of 1.5 hours and without the need to purchase any additional equipment. Significantly lower noise levels (66 dB(A)) for improved operator comfort and reduced noise pollution, also makes for cleaner, more sustainable working. The saving potential of the electric excavator is also very high. Compared to machines with combustion engines, electric operation reduces power costs by around 30%. The savings are even more significant in maintenance costs, which are around 80% lower. SANY also presented two other popular machines on the stand, the SY26U with Stage V Yanmar engine and load sensing hydraulics and the 8.8-tonne SY80U compact excavator which impresses with its compact design, low fuel consumption and outstanding operator comfort. Both machines have proved to be a huge hit with plant hirers and owner operators alike. All excavators come with SANY’s industry leading 5-year / 3000 hour warranty as standard for complete peace of mind. Leigh Harris, Business Development Director for the UK & Ireland commented, “It’s been terrific to kick off our 2023 events calendar. Following our success at the show last year, we had high hopes for this year’s event and it hasn’t disappointed us. It’s been the perfect springboard to unveil our brand new electric excavator to the UK market and it’s been great to see the amount of interest the electric SY19E and the other machines on our stand have generated.”... Read more...THE LONDON IRISH CENTRE RECEIVES ULTAN COWLEY’S ARCHIVE OF THE MEN WHO BUILT BRITAIN13 February 2023NewsThe London Irish Centre are delighted to announce the official handover of an archive entitled ‘From Clare to Here: Memories of the Men Who Built Britain,’ as presented by renowned Historian, Ultan Cowley. The archive tells the stories and experiences of mid-20th century emigrants who contributed to the rebuilding of post-war Britain. Songs from the navvies’ heyday are combined with images and anecdotes of life on-site and in the pubs, bedsits, and ballrooms of London, Manchester, Birmingham and elsewhere. The London Irish Centre is honoured to continue sharing the memories of this generation of post-war emigrants, often referred to as “The Forgotten Irish,” who set the very foundations upon which our Centre was built. The stories, which will be presented at a new archive and library at the London Irish Centre, will prove delightfully nostalgic for those who were there, and revelatory for those who were not. Thanks to the many generous supporters for their involvement in this project, including O’Donovan Waste Disposal. The handover of ‘From Clare to Here: Memories of the Men Who Built Britain’ marks a true community effort to preserve these memories in the future of our Centre. About Ultan Cowley, Historian: Ultan Cowley was born into a theatrical family in Ireland in 1946. At the age of fifteen he first ‘took the boat’ to Britain where he lived for many years. As a mature student he studied at the Universities of Essex and Aberystwyth before returning to Ireland to teach history in 1977. He is the author of The Men Who Built Britain: A History of the Irish Navvy (2001), McAlpine’s Men: Irish Stories from the Sites (2010), and the audio documentary CD, Voices of the men who built Britain (2015). Séamus MacCormaic, CEO at the London Irish Centre says: The London Irish Centre is delighted to become the custodians of the Ultan Cowley Archive ‘The Men Who Built Britain.’ It will enhance our existing rich archive that contains the story of the Irish in Britain. We are grateful to all donors who enabled us to acquire the Ultan Cowley archive, in particular, O’Donovan Waste Disposal, who are generous and constant supporters of the work of the London Irish Centre. Jacqueline O’Donovan, Managing Director at O’Donovan Waste Disposal says: As an Irish family in London and a business with strong Irish roots, the preservation of this archive is extremely important. We are immensely proud of our Irish heritage and are passionate about the stories and experiences of many of those featured in the archive, which greatly reflect the journey our own parents made from West Cork in the 1950s. We feel it is imperative to protect the legacy of the Irish generations that sacrificed so much; not only for the of building of Britain, but for laying the foundations for the Irish that came to the UK after and the Irish diaspora now. To have the O’Donovan name associated with such a prestigious project is a privilege and we are delighted to help secure the future of the archive!... Read more...TVH EXPANDS RANGE OF SPARE PARTS FOR BACKHOE LOADERS13 February 2023Backhoe LoadersParts specialist TVH has announced it is further expanding its range of products for small earth-moving equipment (SEM). TVH already offered parts and accessories for three types of small earth-moving machines (up to ten tonnes): mini-excavators, skid steer loaders and compact track loaders. To this it now adds parts for backhoe loaders. This move enables TVH to further enter the new adjacent market of small earth-moving equipment. “We are continuously expanding our product range – especially within small earth-moving machinery”, says Joris Tijtgat, Market Management Specialist for SEM at TVH. “Whether that is with new parts, new brands or new equipment. Our in-house experts keep a close eye on the market and respond to all trends and developments within the small earth-moving equipment sector. But our customers’ needs and expectations always come first. That is why we now also offer parts and accessories for backhoe loaders.” OVER 4 MILLION KNOWN REFERENCES Backhoe loaders are equipped with a bucket on the front and a backhoe on the rear. That makes this vehicle a very versatile machine. They are suitable for all kinds of earth-moving jobs in demanding environments. Joris explains: “With one and the same machine you can perform different tasks and therefore backhoe loaders can be used everywhere, such as in public administrations, in road works, in (agricultural and garden) construction etc.” By adding parts and accessories for backhoe loaders to its range, TVH can offer more than four million known references for the SEM market. The company processes more than 300 000 orders for the small earth-moving market every year. MOST PARTS AVAILABLE FROM STOCK “The focus for the development of the range of parts for backhoe loaders will initially lie on the machine makes JCB, Case, Caterpillar, John Deere, Volvo, Bobcat and Kubota. We proactively search for the best parts and accessories for those makes. As a result, most of these parts are already in stock, even before there is demand for them, and we can deliver very quickly. But when a customer needs a part from another make like New Holland, Komatsu, Terex … our in-house experts will of course help them quickly with that too”, Joris adds. Go to https://www.tvh.com/en-be/parts/get-inspired/parts-for/small-earth-moving-equipment/backhoe-loaders for more info about TVH’s range of parts and accessories for backhoe loaders. Photo – Joris Tijtgat, Market Management Specialist for SEM at TVH... Read more...Manitou Group and Kiloutou sign an exclusive partnership agreement on their first retrofit project9 February 2023NewsAncenis, February 2nd, 2023 ‒ Manitou Group, a world reference in the handling, aerial work platform and earth-moving sectors, announces that it has signed an exclusive 12-month partnership agreement with Kiloutou, a major player in Europe’s equipment rental sector, to offer electrification kits for Manitou’s used internal-combustion-engine telehandler. Retrofitting these machines will extend their useful life while reducing their environmental impact, in particular their carbon emissions, in accordance with the commitments that both groups have made in their respective CSR roadmaps. Manitou Group and Kiloutou Group, which are both aware of the advantages of constantly optimising the durability of their machinery and equipment, are teaming up to start the first heavy-equipment retrofit project involving a manufacturer and a rental company. This project, which will roll out over the next two years, is aimed at testing the technical and economic feasibility of electrifying telehandlers initially designed and marketed with internal combustion engines. The first phase of the test is being carried out on a high lifting height telehandler demonstrator in Kiloutou’s rental fleet. During 2023, this internal- combustion telehandler will be dismantled and reassembled with an electrification kit at Manitou Group’s production plant in Ancenis, then tested in real-life conditions at Kiloutou’s test centre near Lille. After the machine clears the test, Manitou Group will be in a position to offer electrification kits for machines refurbished using new or pre-owned parts, exclusively to Kiloutou Group. This distribution will be carried out for a period of 12 months from the beginning of 2024, on several machines in Kiloutou’s fleet. These kits comprise several components including a lithium-ion battery, and open the door to switching from internal combustion engines to extremely low-carbon full-electric motors. Michel Denis, President & CEO of Manitou Group, spoke about the advantages of this team project: “We are currently rolling out our choice of low-emissions machines in our Oxygen range. We were also looking for an alternative to our internal-combustion machines that are already in operation, to take the next step in this direction. Kiloutou is particularly open to this kind of solutions, so we will be working together to create retrofit kits. The goal is to extend our products’ useful life and at the same time shrink our carbon footprint.” Most of the retrofitting work in this partnership will involve machines that Kiloutou has had in its rental fleet for about five years. This option addresses the need to speed up the transition to lower-carbon machinery. By extending the useful life of equipment that is otherwise fully operational, retrofits combine sustainability and circularity. Once they have been retrofitted with electrification kits, the revamped machines will be included in the Impakt range of environmentally-friendly alternatives, and be available in Kiloutou branches in France. François Renault, Group Fleet and Sustainability Director of Kiloutou Group, adds, “At Kiloutou, we firmly believe that decarbonizing the construction and civil engineering sector will take a team effort. This project with Manitou Group is that principle in practice and shows that we are committed to the same goals. The possibility of giving machines in our fleet a second life, and lowering their emissions, is a key lever in our drive to reduce our indirect emissions. We are working particularly hard these days to fast-track this circular-economy solution.... Read more...Doosan Bobcat Donates $1 Million in Equipment for Turkiye Earthquake Relief and Recovery9 February 2023Charity / EquipmentDoosan Bobcat will provide equipment worth around $1 million for relief and recovery activities in the earthquake-stricken areas of Turkiye. Construction equipment will be promptly delivered through Doosan Bobcat’s dealer network to be of practical help in lifesaving activities in affected areas and to help restore critical infrastructure such as collapsed buildings and roads. The equipment being supplied includes skid-steer loaders and excavators to remove and clean debris, and portable generators and lighting towers to be used at sites with power supply issues. By providing equipment that can be used immediately for relief and recovery efforts, Doosan Bobcat hopes to help residents of the affected areas in Turkiye to begin to recover their daily lives as soon as possible. The donation will be financed in cooperation with Doosan Bobcat’s mother company, Doosan Group, which has supported previous major disasters with equipment and donations, such as hurricanes and earthquakes in the U.S., China, Haiti, Japan and Nepal over the past 20-plus years.... Read more...Europe’s First Doosan DX1000LC-7 100 t Excavator Starts Work9 February 2023ExcavatorsThe first Doosan DX1000LC-7 100 tonne crawler excavator in Europe began work on 31st January 2023 at an oil shale mine at North Kiviõli in Estonia, run by Kiviõli Keemiatöötus (KKT), part of the Alexela Group. As well as being the first in Europe, the Estonia machine is one of 35 that have already been built and shipped worldwide from the Gunsan factory in South Korea. The new DX1000LC-7 was supplied to KKT by INTRAC Group, the Doosan Authorised Dealer for the Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Attending the ceremony to celebrate the handover of the new DX1000LC-7 at North Kiviõli, Stephane Dieu, Excavator Product Manager at Doosan Infracore Europe, said: “Equipped with a 6 m3 rock bucket for direct extraction work, the DX1000LC-7 at the oil shale mine provides the lowest fuel consumption available in the 100 tonne excavator market. The average fuel consumption is 45 l/h and with the production target set to around 1200 tonne per hour, that provides a very impressive yield of 26 tonne for each litre of fuel used.” The new excavator has joined the existing Doosan DX800LC-7 80 tonne and DX490LC-7 50 tonne models at North Kiviõli, both of which have completed 7000 operating hours in two years and work alongside a number of other 80 tonne machines at the mine. The purchase decision to replace one of the existing 80 tonne machines with the new DX1000LC-7 was based on the successful performance of the DX800LC-7, with which KKT is burning 10 litres per hour less fuel than the competitive machines, for the same production output. These savings really add up – after over 4000 operating hours, the DX800LC-7 had already saved the equivalent of 40,000 litres of fuel, a massive figure especially when the escalating price of fuel is considered. Compared to the other 80 tonne excavators, the DX800LC-7 uses 1.5€/litre less fuel – the overall saving was already 60,000€ after only 4000 hours. After 10,000 hours, the saving will be equivalent to 150,000€. The Promise of Even Greater Savings The new DX1000LC-7 promises even more savings. Driven by the most powerful engine in the 100 tonne class, the DX1000LC-7 also has the highest hydraulic flow for this size of machine, providing best-in-class performance, with higher productivity, lower fuel consumption and smoother controls. The DX1000LC-7 excavator is powered by the new stage V version of the well-proven Perkins 2806J diesel engine, providing a high power output of 469 kW (629 HP), more than any other machine in this class. The high output of the engine is combined with a Virtual Bleed Off (VBO) hydraulic system (D-ECOPOWER+), providing a best-in-class hydraulic flow of (3 x 523) – 1569 l/min and a high system pressure of 360 bar, together contributing to the best performance in the 100 tonne market. Estonia Oil Shale Dates Back Over 100 Years Estonia discovered more than 100 years ago that the stone at the North Kiviõli mine contained oil inside and from that time onwards started to extract it. The process to obtain the oil remains unchanged. First the stone is taken out, after around 8 m3 of overburden is removed, providing around 1 m3 of the precious oil shale. To remove the overburden, different techniques are used. The first involves blasting and loading trucks with the 80 or 100 tonne excavators. Another uses a 50 tonne excavator equipped with a breaker and one of the larger excavators for loading trucks. The third method employs an 80 tonne excavator, equipped with a vibrating hydraulic ripper (Xcentric) and another 80 tonne excavator equipped with a bucket to load trucks. After removing the overburden, the extraction of the oil shale starts, again using different techniques. These include direct use of an excavator to load a truck or using a surface miner to extract the precious material, crush it and load it into a truck at the same time. The transformation process to produce oil from the stone begins with the stone being crushed and then loaded into a reactor unit, where it is heated to between 400 to 800 oC depending on the size. As well as oil, phenol is also removed from the stone. Overall, the process takes around two hours. Generally, a kg of stone can be 20 to 30% comprised of oil and the mine operator is moving around 10 million tonnes per year (combining the overburden and oil shale). Oil Shale is Primary Energy Source in Estonia The oil shale industry in Estonia is one of the most developed in the world. The National Development Plan for the Utilisation of Oil Shale 2016–2030 describes oil shale as a strategic resource. Estonia is the only country in the world that uses oil shale as its primary energy source. In 2018, oil shale accounted for 72% of Estonia’s total domestic energy production and supplied 73% of Estonia’s total primary energy. About 7300 people (over 1% of the total workforce in Estonia) are employed in the oil shale industry. Highest Quality Dealer Support INTRAC is solely responsible for sales and servicing of the Doosan crawler, wheeled and mini/midi excavator, wheel loader, articulated dump truck and attachment ranges in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. INTRAC’s sales and service centre for Latvia in Riga is acknowledged as one of the best in the Baltic region. The company also has impressive facilities at its branches in Vilnius and Tallinn, which are the focal points for the service INTRAC provides in Lithuania and Estonia, respectively. In total, INTRAC has 13 outlets with workshops and 55 fully equipped service vans in the Baltic region. INTRAC customers benefit from superb on-site service networks, covering everything from emergency repairs to routine maintenance. The company’s factory-trained engineers have many years of hands-on experience of repairs and servicing of plant and machinery. For more on Doosan construction equipment, please visit the website: www.eu.doosanequipment.com... Read more...Used Volvo EC140E from SMT is ‘our best purchase’, says Parkinson Plant Services8 February 2023Excavators / PlantTom Parkinson, Managing Director of Macclesfield-based Parkinson Plant Services, chose a used 14 tonne Volvo excavator from SMT GB for his first foray into larger equipment and has not looked back. Since breaking out on his own in 2017, Tom Parkinson’s groundworks contracting business, Parkinson Plant Services, has gone from strength to strength. The groundworks and excavation specialist has remained busy throughout the pandemic and is now taking on more and larger jobs, from drainage and landscaping to mass excavation and earthmoving projects. Larger jobs required Tom to add a larger machine to his fleet of compact excavators and wheeled loaders, and he immediately knew he wanted a Volvo. “I have operated plant ever since I left school. I have driven machines of all sizes and brands and Volvo has always been a personal favourite,” he says. “When you are spending a whole day in a machine, you want it to be a nice and comfortable machine to drive. Volvos are built with the operator in mind and just tick all the right boxes.” A quick and easy purchase Tom began his search on the typical used equipment listing and auction sites, before calling SMT GB’s used equipment specialist Pelham Milligan in February 2022. “I happened to ring up Pelham one day and said ‘I’m looking for a machine in the 14 tonne size class. Can you help me?’ Straight away, he rang me back and said ‘I’ve got this one down at our Used Equipment Centre in Bruntingthorpe. Pop over, have a look, and tell me what you think,’” Tom recounts. Two weeks later, he took delivery. The machine in question was a used Volvo EC140E crawler excavator – a current model with only 4,000 hours on the clock. SMT GB had carried out a full valet and service of the machine and Tom requested some extra work to suit his needs. This included the addition of some chevron decals to the counterweight for improved safety awareness on site and a cab guard for protection against vandalism. As it was his first large machine purchase, Tom specifically wanted a used machine. “I think it’s good to go for a used machine, especially for the first one, so you can see exactly what you’re getting before you buy it and you don’t have to wait very long for it to arrive,” he says. “I was a bit unsure as it was my first big purchase, but SMT really helped me out. They showed me how it would work and what they offered with the machine, which made it so easy. I felt as if they couldn’t do enough for me,” he continues. The best overall package Tom had also looked at another used Volvo from a non-authorised reseller, but the overall package was not as good. SMT GB gave him free delivery to wherever he wanted, threw in a brand-new ditching bucket, and offered a one-stop shop for servicing and parts. “It was a no-brainer to go with SMT GB. The Customer Support Agreement means I don’t have to worry about servicing the machine. When it’s time, SMT GB will come out and do that wherever the machine is,” he says. “A used machine is still a significant investment,” he continues, “so the warranty also gives me that peace of mind, that if anything was to go wrong, we’ve got that covered.” As good as new So far, Tom’s used Volvo EC140E excavator has been performing perfectly and has even been mistaken for a brand new one. “Everything is still tight on it regarding the pins and bushes,” he says. “It feels like a new machine and the chevrons looks great, so a lot of people have commented ‘Oh, you have a new machine!’” It has proven just as easy and comfortable to operate as Tom remembered from his previous experience with Volvo machines and he has been particularly impressed with the fuel efficiency. Fuel efficient and compact “With other machines, I’ve easily gone through a tank of fuel in a day, but I did a bulk excavation job over in Macclesfield recently where the EC140E didn’t even use half a tank. It really helps to keep costs down, especially given the new laws for white diesel,” he says. Another pleasant surprise for Tom has been the EC140E’s compact footprint, enabling it to work effectively on confined jobsites and making transport between sites easier. “I did look into the zero tail-swing option as I was a bit worried about being able to manoeuvre the machine on tight, residential jobs, but it’s actually got quite a short swing radius on it, despite being a conventional design. It’s also quite narrow, so it’s good for working on small sites as well as larger ones, and is relatively easy to transport,” Tom explains. “I’m very pleased with the machine and I would definitely recommend SMT GB and Volvo to others. It has been a great addition to our business and is probably the best purchase we’ve had within our company,” he concludes. Please visit the SMT GB website to learn more about Used Equipment. Photo – Tom Parkinson, Managing Director of Parkinson Plant Services, in front of his first large machine purchase, a used Volvo EC140E excavator from SMT GB.... Read more...Five ways Rokbak haulers help to save you money7 February 2023UncategorisedWith the current economic situation, it’s more important than ever to reduce costs and achieve the lowest total cost of ownership possible. Rokbak’s Senior Product Manager, Scott Pollock, explains how the company is helping customers achieve this… Rokbak’s Senior Product Manager Scott Pollock 1. A fuel-efficient drivetrain Rokbak’s fuel-efficient drivetrains deliver powerful performance and meet worldwide emission standards with low cost of operation and low environmental impact. Fuel consumption is the biggest cost of operating a machine. The Rokbak RA30 and RA40EU Stage V engines produce a fuel consumption saving of up to 7%, when compared to the previous EU Stage IV engines. This means lower operating costs and less impact on the environment. The RA30 EPA Tier 4 Final machines also achieved a fuel saving of up to 5% when the latest eight-speed transmission was introduced. 2. The aspirated air engine filter A key feature towards increasing productivity and reliability for the customer is the engine air intake filter. Within the dry-type, 2-stage aspirated air cleaner, this small suction draws out major contaminates, extending the time between maintenance intervals, lowering total cost of ownership and potentially increasing machine life cycle. 3. Data-driven savings Rokbak’s Haul Track telematics system helps machine owners to reduce total cost of ownership (TCO) by keeping an eye on everything from fuel consumption and machine usage to issues that, if neglected, could lead to repairs or unplanned downtime. The system enables you to remotely monitor your machine to manage performance, plan preventative maintenance, proactively control production and track the condition of your hauler. By taking a deep dive into a variety of software parameters – such as travel speed, fuel consumption, temperatures and pressures – owners can look for patterns and identify improvement areas that can reduce TCO. Haul Track connects to the onboard weighing (OBW) system, so any under or overloading can be easily identified and used to help educate operators in correct machine usage. 2022 saw the re-introduction of improved fault alerts, with improved maintenance alerts being reintroduced shortly. These not only notify the dealer of upcoming service intervals, but also provide a list of required parts for that specific task – enabling faster servicing and greater machine uptime. 4. Lengthened maintenance intervals Both Rokbak articulated haulers are installed with hydraulic system magnetic suction filters, which reduce the risk of contaminants entering the hydraulic system, saving on disposable maintenance materials and maximising productive uptime through cleaner systems and prolonged component life. The RA30 and RA40 both adopt modern hydraulic fluids that maximise time between maintenance periods to 4,000 hours. The RA40’s transmission has high-performance fluid and up to 6,000 hours between service intervals, while the RA30’s long-life transmission fluid supports 4,000 hours between oil maintenance intervals. As a result, customers can achieve increased productivity and uptime, as well as low cost per tonne. 5. Operator comfort = operator productivity Rokbak has created the ideal ergonomic environment for the articulated hauler operator to work within. Operators can have a huge influence on TCO. A happy operator is a productive operator, and the more your machines move the more you earn. Spacious, pressurised cabs have been designed to avoid fatigue and be highly comfortable – with low noise, an active air suspension operator’s seat with adjustable arm rests, cushioned steering, and high-capacity heating and air-conditioning. The RA30 is equipped with true independent front suspension as standard, further enhancing operator comfort and enabling excellent traction control and maximum productivity, even in challenging conditions. More information To find out more about how Rokbak haulers can help to save you money, visit the Rokbak team at CONEXPO 2023 at Booth F8926 in Las Vegas, US, from March 14th-18th. Alternatively, visit the Rokbak website or contact your local Rokbak dealer.... Read more...Assembly via helicopter: Liebherr flat-top crane at work on Mont Blanc7 February 2023CranesA 150 EC-B 8 is helping build a cable car station and a new educational centre in the aim to increase climate awareness The crane needs to be compatible with the helicopter’s load capacityCareful planning and a well-coordinated team ensure smooth assembly with as few flights as possible A new educational centre focused on climate change, complete with cable car, is currently being built on France’s largest glacier, the “Mer de Glace”. The transformation of the Montenvers station is intended to make students, tourists and residents even more aware of the effects of climate change. Access to the high mountain area will also be made easier with the new cable car moving closer to the glacier. A Liebherr 150 EC-B 8, whose assembly required the use of a helicopter, is an integral part of the project. Chamonix (France), 7 February 2023 – The flat-top crane’s tower is in place. A helicopter delivered one tower section after another to the Montenvers mountain station up at an altitude of 1,913 metres, after the foundation anchor was secured to the massif. Four assembly engineers from Liebherr’s partner FT Montage and six flight assistants from Heliswiss International took delivery of the parts from overhead, connected them and worked their way up to a tower height of over 40 metres. A spectacular panorama presents itself: rock faces, trees and ice fields sparkle in the sunshine. But the engineers have little time to appreciate the views from the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps and the European Union. The helicopter is on its approach with the crane’s slewing platform. “Assembly has been a true team effort that wouldn’t have been possible without mutual trust,” says Guillaume Riband, Operations Manager France Centre East at Vinci Construction France. “Everyone has pulled together and risen to the challenge as a result.” FT Montage won the “Trophée des Grues á Tour” in the category “Assembly of the Year” due to the complexity and difficulty of the operation. The award is presented annually by the CPMDG (Professional commission for tower crane professions and equipment) from the DLR Federation. EC-B series with flexible jib length A job like this one with a 150 EC-B 8 in the middle of the Alps isn’t something that happens every day. The crane, with a 45-metre jib and a hook height of 42 metres, will support the construction of the new cable car station and the International Glacier and Climate Interpretation Centre until June 2023. The new “Glaciorium” is to become the flagship attraction at Montenvers and will help visitors to understand the phenomena associated with global warming. The Montenvers redevelopment will cost more than 50 million euros and is due to be completed in December 2024. The project was designed to be of high ecological and architectural quality in order to minimise the impact on nature. In terms of energy consumption, waste disposal and visitor awareness, the project fulfils high standards. One of the biggest challenges the construction company faced was selecting the right crane. Originally, the site required a crane in the 250 metric tonnes range due to the loads that needed to be moved. This value is based on radius (m) and lifting capacity (t) and serves to classify the size of the crane. As such a crane is too heavy for helicopter assembly, Liebherr worked with customers Solumat GAT ( Materials Division, Vinci Group) and CBCE Grenoble (a local construction company that is part of the Vinci Group) to find economic alternatives. Depending on temperature and altitude, the helicopter can move a maximum of 3,800 kilograms. Fast assembly thanks to clever design concept In the end, Liebherr suggested the use of a 150 EC-B, as its counter jib, which weighs in at 3,600 kilograms, is light enough for the helicopter to manage. Plus, the flat-top crane can be easily dismantled into several individual parts thanks to its flexible design concept. Elements such as the crane’s compact head, slewing platform, cabin and control cabinet can all be quickly reconnected. The site’s architects and the construction company also adapted the planning so that the loads to be moved wouldn’t exceed the crane’s maximum lifting capacity of eight tonnes. This was in part achieved through the use of lighter concrete elements. For safety reasons, the Montenvers train, which dates back to 1910, was temporarily suspended due to the proximity of its power lines. The retro-style electric rack railway connects Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Montenvers. It climbs steeply upwards for more than five kilometres and visitors reach the terminus at an altitude of 1,913 metres after approx. 20 minutes. Robust cranes for unusual tasks Thanks to the right choice of crane, good preparation and a well-coordinated team, the assembly on Mont Blanc has gone smoothly. The unusual assembly of the 150 EC-B took around eight hours. During this time, a powerful Kamov KA 32 A11 BC heavy-lift helicopter from Heliswiss International flew back and forth 30 times to deliver all the crane parts and tower system elements. The delivery site needed to be easily accessible for trucks and offer sufficient space. The location chosen was an area in Chamonix on the Arveyron River, about 3.5 kilometres from the Montenvers mountain station. This relatively short distance helped to keep flight times, and therefore refuelling, to a minimum. “Precision planning has been key to this all-round successful assembly,” Guillaume Riband concludes. This is the second successful helicopter assembly for Heliswiss International and Liebherr. In 2015, they used a helicopter to transport a 150 EC-B 6 flat-top crane onto the Zugspitze to work on the construction of the new Eibsee cable car station. Up at an altitude of 2,975 metres, the crane marked Germany’s highest construction site back then. The 150 EC-B 8 won’t quite reach such heights in France, but sub-zero temperatures are expected here in the winter months as well. This isn’t a problem for Liebherr tower cranes, which are designed for such conditions.... Read more...Award success for Rural Crime Taskforce – Thames Valley6 February 2023NewsThe Thames Valley Rural Crime Taskforce is the second winner of a prestigious national award from the Construction Equipment Association for being the most proactive rural crime team in the UK. The Rob Oliver Award, for excellence in the fight against construction plant and agricultural machinery theft, was awarded to the taskforce for being the most proactive rural task force as the team collectively made over 120 checks against the secure CESAR database. Three taskforce officers also received CESAR Champion awards for identifying different stolen vehicles through the CESAR database. Construction Equipment Association (CEA) Chief Executive Suneeta Johal said: “The CEA has a long standing and strong commitment to supporting the UK police force in the fight against machinery theft and we would like to congratulate the Thames Valley Police for their outstanding success.” The force launched the taskforce in March 2022 to make the Thames Valley a hostile place for those who commit rural crimes. The taskforce consists of a team of dedicated officers, as well as intelligence support, who work tirelessly with Thames Valley Police’s partners, drone units, and the Joint Operations Unit to tackle serious and organised rural crime. Presenting the award to the taskforce was Rob Oliver MBE, Director of CEE Ltd, former Chief Executive of the CEA and who the award was named after. He said, “In a time when police forces are under increasing scrutiny, it’s great to celebrate the good work of the team at Thames Valley. They have shown a great commitment to combatting machine theft by using the tools made available to them via the CESAR database. It’s a good example of a police partnership with business to help root out crime.” Superintendent Andy Huddleston, NPCC Strategic Lead for agri and construction machinery theft, was also present at the presentation. He said: “As the NPCC lead for agri and construction machinery theft I work with forces across the UK and what the Thames Valley Rural Crime Team are doing to tackle organised crime is outstanding. The recovery of a large value of stolen machinery is excellent but their persistent pursuit of criminals is utterly impressive. Receiving the Rob Oliver award is an accolade both the team and Thames Valley Police should be very proud of as it is the public and industry we are here to protect recognising their achievements.” The taskforce is successfully working to support rural communities and tackle crime. In 2022, there were over 400 completed investigations where 30.4% achieved a positive outcome. Around £1.3m worth of trailers, plant machinery, caravans, power tools and other equipment have been recovered by the team. They have been proactively working with the Forensic Investigation Unit to address rises in thefts of GPS systems within tractor satellite navigation systems. This means the Forensic Investigation Unit is able to attend these incidents when they have taken place, helping the rural communities recover from the impact these offences, which can have severe consequences on the livelihoods of those affected. Taskforce Inspector Stuart Hutchings said: “Thames Valley Police Rural Crime Taskforce is focused on tacking all types of Rural Crime within Thames Valley. Since the creation of the taskforce 12 months ago, the team have been dedicated to protecting our Rural Communities and creating a hostile environment for those that commit Rural Crime. The Rural Crime Taskforce has recovered over £1.3 million pounds of stolen property and the majority of this stolen property has been plant and farm machinery. The stolen property recovered has been stolen from all over the country and we have recovered property from 17 different police forces. “The taskforce is working in partnership with all our neighbouring forces and supporting each other in the development of intelligence and carrying out of proactive operations to target Rural Crime. Our partnership working with agencies, such as the RSPCA, the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service, Environment Agency and Joint Unit of Waste Crime has allowed us to focus on offenders and emerging crime trends. “Working with the CLA, NFU and construction industry, we are highlighting crime prevention advice and the importance for residents to record all property details, report all incidents to police and review all security regularly to help deter criminals.” Matthew Barber, Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “The Rural Crime Taskforce has had a significant impact in the 12 months since it was formed and it is great to see this recognised with a national award. Rural crime can devastate communities and the work of the taskforce demonstrates the difference that can be made with a dedicated proactive policing approach. Well done to all Thames Valley officers and staff who have contributed to its success.” CESAR Champion awards The Construction Equipment Association (CEA) launched its CESAR Champion initiative in 2020 to recognise the efforts of officials who use the CESAR technology to identify a stolen piece of machinery. In an effort to encourage more engagement with the CESAR Security Scheme, the award is now being given to any officer who completes 10 checks on agricultural or construction machines or ATVs protected with the security system. Three TVP officers also received a CESAR Champion award PC James Gunner received the Green Agri badge for identifying a stolen New Holland tractorPC Huw Kime received the Blue Construction badge for identifying a stolen dumperPC Dan Smith received the Red ATV badge for identifying a stolen ATV Taskforce Sergeant Chris Ruff said: “It is really pleasing that three members of our team have received CESAR Champion awards, all for different types of vehicles and all from recoveries that happened in the same week. We have worked hard to train our staff in plant and agricultural vehicle identification, most of them having little or no knowledge on the subject when the team was set up a year ago. Criminals are acutely aware that we are on the lookout for stolen machines and will take steps to try to hide, disguise or alter security markings. With the help of funding through the CESAR scheme, all of our staff now have a nationally recognised qualification and the training has really paid off with over a million pounds worth of recoveries in the last year. This has improved our ability to detect stolen equipment and these recoveries are a direct result of the technology that CESAR uses. We encourage owners to register equipment with the CESAR scheme, which is the nationally recognised scheme for plant and agricultural machines. It not only gives machines an identity but also allows the police to contact owners 24 hours a day, seven days a week if we locate it.” CESAR, powered by Datatag, and owned by the Construction Equipment Association, can be fitted to any construction or agriculture machine that is at risk of theft. The tamper-evident label acts as an initial deterrent and the multiple layers of technology help to identify the machine. All the owner and machine details are stored on the CESAR secure database for police to double-check any machine quickly and easily. For more information, visit cesarscheme.org. Picture – (L-R) NPCC Strategic Lead for agri and construction machinery theft Superintendent Andy Huddleston, Thames Valley Police Assistant Chief Constable Tim De Meyer, Rob Oliver MBE, Thames Valley Police Rural Crime Taskforce Sergeant Chris Ruff, Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Barber and Datatag Police Liaison team member, Peter Wilson... Read more...John Deere will not attend the SIMA show in November 20246 February 2023Events / NewsWalldorf, 3 February 2023 – John Deere would like to take this opportunity to inform dealers and customers that they will not be attending the next SIMA show in November 2024 in Paris. One of the main reasons for this decision is to allow greater focus on country specific dealer and customer events throughout 2024. “COVID 19 has changed the event landscape and the way customers want to interact with us is also evolving,” said Andreas Jess, John Deere Marketing Director for Region 2. “Ag and Turf trade shows are a long-established way of engaging with farmers and contractors, but we are also exploring alternative communication channels that combine both digital and face-to-face activities. These will allow us to better demonstrate our innovative technologies and production system-based solutions and, at the same time, reach a wider audience.” He added, “customers are increasingly interested in how Precision Ag can support their operations across the entire agricultural production cycle, and this requires a different approach to share ideas and demonstrate solutions.” The increased focus on in country customer events will also support John Deere’s transition to a more streamlined business that puts the customer at the center. It is also a question of utilizing resources in the most efficient way over the mid- to long-term. Tilmann Köller, responsible for John Deere Public Relations and Shows & Events for Region 2 adds, “we are currently planning our European dealer and customer events for 2024 which require synchronization with our markets in North America. The first announcements will be in March 2024, and we are very excited about the news we will share.” John Deere still sees an important role for trade shows in the future but would welcome international trade fair organisations to review their current timetables to allow greater flexibility for other promotional activities.... Read more...WORSLEY PLANT COUPLE UP WITH OILQUICK6 February 2023NewsWorsley Plant start off 2023 by widening their product offering and strengthening their reputation as the UK’s Attachment Specialist – your one stop shop for all your attachment sales and hires. The company are delighted to announce that they are now an Official UK Dealer for OilQuick. Their fully automatic quick coupler system means hydraulic attachments can be changed directly from the drivers cab in just 10 seconds and are ideal for use in the Demolition, Construction, Quarrying industries. The use of innovative high-performance technology in product design and manufacturing, makes OilQuick Quick Couplers an efficient and reliable choice for customers around the globe. Spring 1993 saw OilQuick’s first quick coupler for backhoe loaders launched on the market. By 2021 more than 40,000 OilQuick systems had been supplied by the Swedish based manufacturer to satisfied machine operators across the world. OilQuick is an advanced automatic quick coupler system for excavators from 1 to 120 tons, which allows hydraulic work tools to be connected and disconnected from the driver’s cab. The operator can change between various work tools within a few seconds, such as a hydraulic hammer, pulverisers or shears, sorting grab, hydraulic magnet, compactor, crushing bucket or tilt bucket. Operations Director Adrian Nixon comments: “We are delighted to have added Oilquick to our range. We already offer the Lehnhoff range of fully automatic quick couplers and will continue to support and sell these throughout the UK. However, we appreciated that our customers have a choice, as there are two big players in the quick coupler marketplace. We needed to offer both brands to complement our growing range of hydraulic attachments. We recognize that we need to offer the fullest range for our customers so that they have a one stop shop for all their attachment needs, whether they want to buy or hire, available UK wide. We predict exciting times ahead for both parties involved in this dealership arrangement and are see this as an extremely positive start to 2023.” Worsley Plant already offer Crushing and Screening Buckets from REMU and MB, as well as Demolition Attachments from ROTAR – including grabs, shears and pulverisers. They also offer Magnets from Dynaset, and more recently added Montabert Breakers to their range.... Read more...Bobcat Introduces New Compact Tractor Line-up6 February 2023Uncategorised– The company is targeting ground maintenance, landscaping, lifting and handling, agriculture and snow removal applications – A new line of Bobcat Compact Tractors has been launched for the Europe region.* Bobcat Compact Tractors are part of the ground maintenance equipment (GME) range announced by the company last October. Building on the company’s success in the North American market, Bobcat aims to rank within the top-three GME players in Europe and to double growth in global GME market by 2027. Together with the Compact Tractors, the GME range in EMEA includes mowers and turf equipment, as well as Bobcat’s existing mini track and small articulated loaders. Daniele Paciotti, GME Product Line Director for Bobcat, said: “Bobcat is offering three Compact Tractor platforms – the 1000, 2000 and 4000 series – which feature nine new models from 25 to 58 HP designed to meet the varying needs of customers in EMEA. First deliveries of compact tractors to our dealers are planned for February with the initial focus on Italy, UK, Poland and Benelux, where our dealers have showed a great deal of interest.” Compact Tractors to Suit Every Requirement Bobcat Compact Tractors are designed to increase productivity, versatility and reliability. Whatever the application, these machines help to get the job done efficiently thanks to their robust construction, smooth operation, flexible configuration and full compatibility with a wide range of Bobcat attachments. Each of the nine models in the Bobcat compact tractor range varies in size and engine horsepower, with the option to choose between manual and hydrostatic transmissions: 3-point hitch with telescopic or quick lower links and open canopies (ROPS) and cabs. All the models offer all-day comfort in the cleverly designed and generously appointed workspace. With air conditioning (cab models), a suspended seat, an adjustable steering wheel, linked pedal and intuitive ergonomic controls. Built to the same high manufacturing standards expected of all Bobcat equipment, the performance and reliability of the new Compact Tractors has been ably demonstrated in the US market for several years. And when it comes to maintenance, Bobcat’s extensive service network gives customers the support their businesses need. Truly Multi-Purpose and Customisable Together the nine models offer a wide choice of clever application solutions and can be equipped with front, mid and rear connections and power take-offs. Features include an independent PTO, auto-PTO; PTO Cruise, HST Cruise or Draft control ensuring optimum productivity and uptime. The proven Bob-Tach system comes as standard on all machines with the front-end loader option, enabling users to switch easily between different Bobcat attachments to carry out multiple jobs easily, delivering greater value and versatility for customers’ businesses. Fuel consumption is kept to a minimum thanks to the Eco PTO feature, while the linked pedal ensures optimum driving performance from the efficient 3-cylinder engine. Every Bobcat tractor model comes standard with 4-wheel drive. Customers can easily engage it whenever the work demands it – enjoying superior power and traction in even the toughest working conditions. On top of that, Bobcat’s philosophy will continue to be in place for all the approved attachments, encompassing homologation, certification, engineering approval and Plug&Play for the full variety of rear, mid mount or front attachments. Daily maintenance is simple thanks to the one-piece engine cover. Bobcat’s extensive dealer network means that customers can count on a one-stop-shop for expert advice, timely service and parts availability for both machines and attachments. In addition to the superior uptime and serviceability features, each tractor is backed by a 24-month, 2000-hour warranty. For more information about Bobcat and its products, visit www.bobcat.com.... Read more...Caterpillar Showcases Equipment Innovation, Ease of Use Technologies, Convenient Service Options and the 2023 Global Operator Challenge at CONEXPO-CON/AGG6 February 2023Events / TechnologyThe stage is set for Caterpillar’s largest exhibit to date at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 where the company will highlight its latest products, services and technologies while paying tribute to those who build the world’s infrastructure. The company’s 70,000 ft2 (6,500 m2) outdoor demonstration arena will anchor the massive display known as Operator Stadium located in the expo’s Festival Lot. New Caterpillar Technology, Services and Sustainability hubs provide visitors the opportunity to look beyond the iron for ways to increase operating efficiencies and improve machine uptime. Visitors will find new and current models and battery-electric machine prototypes during the expo from March 14-18 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Latest Equipment The extensive Cat® equipment display in the Festival Lot includes more than 30 machines, including model unveilings and battery-electric model prototypes with charging stations. Visitors will see two main equipment demonstrations each day; one focused on the latest Cat Technology, and one that will spotlight the company’s full equipment line up. Additionally, Caterpillar will be providing unique daily spotlight demonstrations that will take a deep dive into key industry topics including improving fuel efficiency and jobsite efficiency, the evolution of technology, and convenient, scalable solutions for all customers. The new Cat 950 medium wheel loader on display offers premium performance and simple-to-use technologies to help boost operator efficiency and increase productivity, while extended service intervals help lower maintenance costs. Visitors will be treated to a preview of the Next Generation Cat 926, 930 and 938 small wheel loaders – slated for production in late 2023 – which feature new technologies designed to make work easier, a reimagined operator environment and extended service intervals. For paving contractors, the half-lane Cat PM822 cold planer features integrated Cat Grade technology and the latest System K rotor options that deliver performance, productivity and cutting precision. With its compact size, exceptional mobility and easy transport, the Cat AP455 Mobil-trac™ asphalt paver offers great features for both large and small contactors when paving urban streets, parking lots and rural roads. Furthermore, an exciting new market disrupting three-dimensional screed plate with modular fastening system improves mat density and smoothness, while reducing screed plate change time up to 80 percent. The Latest Power Caterpillar Industrial Power Systems Division will exhibit in booth S84329 in the South Hall a wide and rapidly growing portfolio of high-efficiency Cat industrial power solutions. The exhibit includes the unveiling of a new high power internal combustion engine, as well as the leading-edge lithium-ion battery technologies under development. Engines on display, such as the C3.6 IPU, C7.1 and C9.3B, meet EU Stage V, U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final emission standards and are compatible with biodiesel up to B20 and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) to EN15940, to help customers power a better, more sustainable world. The booth will also showcase Caterpillar’s technical services and market expertise leveraged by the global Cat dealer network to maximize the efficiency and extend the lifecycles of off-highway equipment, including Cat remanufactured and service replacement engines. The Services Hub: Easy and on-the-go Caterpillar offers a range of service options that are easy, convenient, flexible and sustainable. The new Cat Central app is the latest tool for convenient access to genuine Cat parts and support. This on-the-go experience makes it easy for customers to find and order Cat parts, scan and shop a specific asset instantly and find answers to maintenance and support questions. Another new service-related solution is the new Cat SIS2GO app which takes the guesswork out of maintaining, troubleshooting and repairing Cat equipment. Both apps are available on Windows, iOS and Android platforms. The Services Hub is located in the Festival Lot, and the hub will include Caterpillar subject matter experts (SME) who will help guide attendees through several maintenance options for Cat equipment. Customer Value Agreement (CVA) options offer easy ownership plans customized to fit a customer’s business needs to extend equipment life and maximize the investment. Cat Certified Rebuild programs return end-of-life machines, systems and components to like new condition. Cat Reman products bring new life to assets with like-new performance at a fraction of the cost of buying new. Cat Self-Service Options deliver convenient, simple parts ordering and machine repair support for those who prefer to do their own service. Team members from Cat Financial will be available to discuss the latest leasing and financing programs, including Cat Card, as well as extended protection packages to help secure customers’ investments. Whether they are looking for new or used Cat machines or for repair/rebuild options to keep their current machines operational, Cat Financial experts will help customers make the right decision to support their business – no matter how large or small. The Technology Hub: Solutions for Any Operation The Caterpillar Technology Hub in the Festival Lot will offer attendees the ability to experience a range of new and existing Cat technologies – VisionLink, Cat Command, VisionLink Productivity, Cat Detect, Cat Grade and Cat Payload. Caterpillar SMEs will be on hand to assist each customer in finding a scalable solution designed to fit the business’s needs and budget. Its centerpiece exhibit, the “Looking Glass” cube, displays and interactively showcases the five key capabilities of the new Cat VisionLink® application – Geofence & Location, Fuel Theft Alerts, Diagnostics, Idle Time/Fuel Burn, and Maintenance. An interactive wall invites visitors to explore the full suite of VisionLink capabilities for both Cat and non-Cat equipment and non-machine assets. The hub’s multiple Cat Command stations allow attendees to remotely operate Cat machines located more than 400 miles away at the Tinaja Hills Demonstration and Learning Center. They are positioned to allow attendees to better experience and learn more about the Command for Dozing, Excavating and Loading technologies. One of the Command stations allows visitors to try the “Strike Pay Dirt Challenge,” where participants remotely control an excavator to win a prize. The Sustainability Hub: Choose Your Machine. Choose Your Power The Caterpillar Sustainability Hub in the Festival Lot will spotlight fuel efficiency and alternative power sources; technologies to fit every operation and budget; and parts and service designed to make uptime fast and easy. Plus, customers will learn about sustainability benefits they can choose today and plan for tomorrow. Outside the Sustainability Hub, exhibit attendees can view components of Caterpillar’s total site solution for the energy transition, including four battery-electric machine prototypes – the Cat 301.9 mini excavator, 320 medium excavator, 950 GC medium wheel loader and 906 compact wheel loader – in addition to AC and DC charging solutions. The Caterpillar-designed batteries powering these battery-electric machines are built on lithium-ion Cat technology with a modular design that offers flexible configurations across multiple applications. Celebrating the Operator With the quest to prove they are the best, more than 10,000 operators representing more than 32 countries around the world registered to compete in the 2022-2023 Global Operator Challenge. From 3,500 participants in the first round of local competitions to 84 advancing to the regional semifinals, nine of the world’s best equipment operators will demonstrate their advanced skill, precision and stamina in hopes of being named the Global Operator Challenge Champion. The nine finalists competing in Operator Stadium at ConExpo are: Pontus Eriksson, representing Zeppelin SwedenSebastian Behr, representing Zeppelin GermanyŁukasz Mokrzyński, representing Bergerat Monnoyeur PolandJohn Schiedeck, representing Holt Cat (Texas, USA)Matt Ferris, representing Empire Cat (Arizona, USA)Fernando do Nascimento, representing PESA (Brazil)Masato Imai, representing Nippon Caterpillar (Japan)Patrick Doheny, representing William Adams (Australia)Nick Thompson, representing CavPower (Australia) The finals kick off on Tuesday morning, March 14, immediately following the expo’s grand opening ceremonies. Throughout the competition, the skills of the finalists will be put to the test in three identical challenges – excavating, loading, and hauling/maneuvering the equipment through a variety of obstacles. The champion is set to be crowned on the afternoon of March 14. All CONEXPO-CON/AGG attendees are encouraged to attend the Global Operator Challenge Finals to see first-hand the new equipment, technologies and services on display in Festival Lot exhibit, F9127. The Finals will also be broadcast live on cat.com. More information on the finalists can be found at www.cat.com/operatorchallenge and for more details about the Cat CONEXPO-CON/AGG experience, visit https://www.cat.com/en_US/campaigns/event/conexpo-2023.html. ... Read more...GARNEA Celebrates 30th Anniversary with New Doosan Facility6 February 2023NewsGARNEA, the importer of Doosan construction machinery for the Czech Republic, has celebrated its 30th anniversary. The management of GARNEA has therefore completed three decades of development of the company, which now has fully-fledged divisions for the agricultural, construction and municipal sectors, with plans to take this further. To mark the milestone, the company also opened a new facility for Doosan machines in Neplachov in the South Bohemia region of the Czech Republic, at a ceremony in the presence of the European top management of Doosan Infracore. The new facility occupies an area of 750 m2 and is intended for servicing even the largest Doosan machines. It has an entrance adapted for heavy machinery, a bridge crane with a load capacity of 10 tonne, controlled temperature regulation, modern oil management and offers comfortable facilities for employees. Together with GARNEA management and other important guests, including František Flídr, CEO of GRANITA Lomy, which is one of the first and above all the largest users of Doosan machines in the Czech Republic, Sanho Shin, Director of Strategy and Marketing at Doosan, ceremonially opened the new premises. Commenting on the event, Sanho Shin said: “Working with GARNEA has exceeded our ambitious expectations. It is incredible how the company has expanded in recent years. We are very pleased with the joint growth in the Czech market. In addition, we have a common philosophy with our importer, which is an emphasis on an aftersales approach to customers.” Sales of Doosan Equipment in the Czech Market are Growing Rapidly GARNEA started distributing the Doosan brand in 2019 and this decision to work with the renowned manufacturer has paid off for the company. The son of the founder and a company executive, Václav Baštýř Jr., praises the results that have been achieved: “Thanks to the cooperation with the Doosan brand, our company is growing rapidly. In the last 5 years, GARNEA has doubled in size – we now have 100 employees, 60% of whom are dedicated to aftersales services. In some important segments, such as heavy excavators over 25 tonne, we are doing extremely well – it is no exaggeration to say that every fifth excavator sold carries the Doosan brand!” Picture – New Doosan facility and the GARNEA team... Read more...A continuing success story: Liebherr and GMVykon bring the first MK 88-4.1 to Mexico1 February 2023CranesMexican crane company GMVykon is won over by the tried-and-tested mobile construction crane conceptComprehensive after-sales service provided by Liebherr service technicians and local spare parts warehouse Future-oriented hybrid power concept for environmentally responsible operation Liebherr has delivered its first MK 88-4.1 to Mexico. The four-axle crane is a perfect match for crane company GMVykon’s upcoming projects. “We’re impressed by the great MK series concept and want to introduce it to the Mexican market,” enthused Managing Director José Victor Cortez at the crane’s official handover at Liebherr’s Monterrey site. Liebherr will ensure reliable local service for the new machine. Monterrey (Mexico), 31 January 2023 – The agile MK 88-4.1 for GMVykon, which has a maximum lifting capacity of eight tonnes, is also the first of its kind to be put into operation on the American continent. The crane is particularly useful for short jobs in several locations. Pull up, unfold the crane at the push of a button, complete the lifts and move on to the next site after dismantling: the taxi crane concept makes this mobile construction crane extremely flexible. Extensive reach, minimal space requirements What’s more, only one person is needed for travel, assembly and operation. Additional transport vehicles and tools are not necessary; another factor that contributes to its efficient use. The crane offers a maximum hook height of approx. 59 metres (45-degree luffed position) and a maximum radius of 45 metres. It also delivers a jib head load capacity of up to 2,200 kilograms. Owing to its vertical tower, the crane can be erected directly at the building in question. This saves space and ensures that obstructions for road users are as minimal as possible. The crane’s future-oriented hybrid power concept is another advantage when working in built-up areas. It enables all-electric operation, with the use of site power, for example. This means that the crane is also especially quiet when working and doesn’t produce any CO2 emissions. If an external power source isn’t available, an efficient diesel generator ensures self-sufficient operation. Both the superstructure and undercarriage drives can be powered by HVO (Hydrogenated Vegetable Oils). Comprehensive customer service By adding the MK 88-4.1 to its fleet, GMVykon has gained a versatile piece of equipment. “Liebherr has impressed us for years with its excellent customer service, top quality and outstanding technology,” said José Victor Cortez. The company fleet includes around 100 Liebherr machines ranging from 30 to 800 tonnes in lifting capacity. At present, its most powerful crane is a Liebherr LTM 1750-9.1 mobile crane. The close collaboration between GMVykon and Liebherr was evident when the MK 88-4.1 was presented in Monterrey. Customers of the Mexican crane company and Liebherr México were invited to experience the latest addition to the GMVykon fleet. “We have provided our service technicians with extensive training specifically for this series so we can offer our customers a reliable and fast service for mobile construction cranes in Mexico,” said Christian Tableros, Divisional Director Liebherr México S. de R.L. de C.V. This means that Liebherr is able to ensure efficient after-sales service, “As well as that, we are also in the process of setting up a spare parts warehouse for short response times, and we’re working hard to further increase awareness of the MKs in Mexico.” As well as the MK 88-4.1, the series also includes the MK 73-3.1 and the MK 140-5.1. About crane rental company GMVykon The Mexican company GMVykon has around 400 employees. Based in Monterrey, GMVykon also has further branches in Mexico City and Saltillo. The company specialises in industrial lifting work for maintenance, new build and expansion projects, as well as heavy haulage and project management. GMVykon has existed in its current form since 2009 and evolved from the former company Gruas Monterrey, which was active in the crane rental business for more than 40 years. Photo: Successful handover of the new MK 88-4.1 (from left): Christian Tableros (Liebherr México S. de R.L. de C.V.), José Victor Cortez (Managing Director GMVykon) and Hector Garza (CFO GMVykon).... Read more...MAJOR COUP FOR JCB GOLF COURSE AS LEGENDS TOUR RETURNS IN 202331 January 2023EventsA major tour event is set to make a welcome return to the prestigious JCB Golf and Country Club after the resounding success of its inaugural visit. The first JCB Championship was staged at the Club this year as part of the Legends Tour’s international schedule, and some of the best-known names in golf competed for £600,000 in prize money. Today organisers confirmed that the event would be returning to the Rocester course in 2023 with a prize fund of £750,000 – the largest on the Legends Tour schedule outside of the Senior Open Championship. The JCB Championship is due to place from August 3rd to 5th 2023. 2022 Senior Open Champion Darren Clarke will once again host the event, with the Club bidding to attract a star-studded field. Among other big names already signed up to play are Alex Cejka, who won the 2022 Championship, Retief Goosen, Thongchai Jaidee, John Daly and Colin Montgomerie . JCB CEO Graeme Macdonald: “We are thrilled to be hosting the JCB Championship for the second consecutive year. Last year’s event was a resounding success and with Darren Clarke hosting the occasion again, we aim to make the 2023 JCB Championship even bigger and better.” Legends Tour Chief Executive Officer Phil Harrison said: “We are delighted to be returning to the JCB Golf & Country Club in 2023. The JCB Championship will undoubtedly attract some of the game’s biggest stars including Tour winners, Major winners, Ryder Cup stars and Hall of Famers.” Darren Clarke said: “I was extremely proud to host The JCB Championship last year for what was a truly fantastic event. The JCB Golf & Country Club is a great venue, and we had such a great field in 2022 with so many former Major champions and legends of the game taking part. I am really looking forward to returning in 2023 as host.” More than 8,000 spectators attended the JCB Championship over three days, enjoying the action on a stunning course which is set in some of Staffordshire’s most beautiful countryside. The prestigious Staffordshire club – the brainchild of JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford – has also successfully been a host venue for the Rose Ladies Series in both 2020 and 2021.... Read more...Thomas Plant Hire and Xwatch Safety Solutions31 January 2023Plant / SafetyThomas Plant Hire began its journey a quarter of a century ago in 1998 when MD Wyn Thomas founded a contracting business in Holywell in North Wales. The company has since grown into somewhat of a force majeure within the sector, with many subsidiary companies within the Thomas Group – in fact, there are seven other Thomas Plant divisions, and the company has no plans to slow down its future growth. Thomas Plant Hire boasts more than 3000 machines within its hire fleet including a wide range of excavators ranging from 1.5tonne up to 50 tonne – which include market-leading machines from OEMs Hitachi, Caterpillar, Kobelco, Komatsu and Liebherr. Also, the company owns a very impressive fleet of 72 dozers with another 20 on order. Ian McMillan, Head of business development at the Thomas Group reported that the company had invested in the region of £50m in new plant and machinery during 2022 and is planning to invest a similar figure during 2023! The company is also a big investor in ‘machine technology’ with its OnGrade Machine Control division, which offers training, sales and hire for Intelligent GPS Machine Control systems, which include Leica, Topcon and Trimble. Thomas Plant is also a big advocate of ‘Safety’ and the company has around 65 Xwatch systems installed on a variety of excavators, with lots more on order as they future-proof their fleet. The systems have been installed by Xwatch partner Gareth James owner of GJ Plant and Auto Electrics and Xwatch’s, sister company Fitzgerald Plant Services, based in Cwmbran, Wales. In the last two weeks alone Gareth has installed 13 Xwatch Systems on behalf of Thomas Plant. Ian McMillansaid, “ We chose the Xwatch systems as they have Network Rail approval, which is a very valuable endorsement for the products and allows us to operate on Network Rail projects. The backup and service we receive from both Gareth James and Fitzgerald Plant Services are second to none – 100% positive.” Ian added, “When working with tier one contractors they mandate that an engineer is on-site within a maximum of four hours of an issue, with Gareth, Fitzgerald Plant Services and the Xwatch, support team this service is guaranteed, although we have next to no issues with the Xwatch systems.” Ian continued, “We have used other safety systems, but we found that the Xwatch competitors lacked ambition and engagement, with no drive or innovation. With Xwatch, we get this in spades. I don’t know of another company that has innovated as much as Xwatch – others seem to sit on their laurels whereas Xwatch is always looking ahead for the next solution – true pioneers and market leaders in machine safety.” “Xwatch design and manufacture fantastic systems, which are simple for the operator to navigate, and again Network Rail and National Highway’s approval is a big driver for using the brand.” Concluded Ian Managing director, Thomas Plant Hire, Wyn Thomas commented, ” As a forward-thinking and progressive business we are always looking to work with companies with the same approach. That’s why Xwatch is our preferred supplier for machine safety solutions. Quality of installation is also key and both Gareth James and Fitzgerald, deliver on every level.” Jemma Dycer-Hopkins UK business development manager, Xwatch Safety Solutions said, “Working with Gwyn, Wyn, Ian and the rest of the fantastic team at Thomas Plant, is always a pleasure. We are honoured to be the company’s preferred supplier of safety systems for their modern fleet. We look forward to continuing our working relationship with Thomas Plant and meeting their safety requirements.” ... Read more...FIVE MORE JCB POTHOLE FIXERS SNAPPED UP BY DAWSONGROUP27 January 2023MachineJCB has struck a further deal with leading commercial asset supplier Dawsongroup for five more of its revolutionary pothole fixing machines to help tackle Britain’s nine-year backlog of road repairs. Just three months after Dawsongroup | emc bought six of the JCB Pothole Pro machines, Managing Director Glen Carruthers has signed a deal for another five for hire across the UK. The Pothole Pro has gained widespread recognition for fixing potholes permanently, first time, without the need for labour intensive repair methods or additional expensive machinery. Dawsongroup | emc is JCB’s official rental partner for the Pothole Pro and the additional machines, bought from dealer TC Harrison JCB, are now being rolled out for rent or contract hire by local authorities and contractors across the country who urgently need to tackle the scourge of potholes. Demand for the machines is at an all-time high, especially given the Asphalt Industry Alliance’s (AIA) Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance survey estimating that there are £12.64 billion worth of outstanding road repairs in England and Wales – equating to a nine-year backlog. Dawsongroup | emc Managing Director Glen Carruthers said: “We were so impressed with the JCB Pothole Pro that we have ordered an additional five machines which will double the size of our fleet within a five-month period. Every day we are talking to our customers asking them how to improve the way they do things and the Pothole Pro fits perfectly into that profile. The JCB Pothole Pro eradicates potholes easily with one machine in a more efficient, cost effective and safer way than more traditional methods. “Potholes continue to be a major issue for our country, and we are determined to help fix the problem by giving customers the option to hire a JCB Pothole Pro from Dawsongroup.” JCB Pothole Pro Sales Manager Ben Rawding said: “Dawsongroup’s order for a further five JCB Pothole Pro machines really shows its commitment to helping tackle the scourge of potholes. JCB’s solution is simple and cost effective and fixes potholes permanently, first time, and we are excited that such a major hirer continues to recognise the machine’s benefits. City councils, large rural county councils and Tier 1 highways contractors across the UK have invested in the Pothole Pro, and all are seeing significantly more defects being fixed, economically, permanently and safely. In fact, Stoke-on-Trent City Council – the first authority to invest in the Pothole Pro – has repaired seven years’ worth of defects in just 12 months.” Tests with contractors and local authorities show the JCB Pothole Pro can complete a pothole repair four times quicker than standard methods in less than eight minutes – equivalent to 700 potholes per month. With a 40km/h travel speed, the machine can also rapidly relocate between sites without additional transport costs. The Pothole Pro can prepare up to 250m2 of roadway in a single shift, or 5,000m3 per month and allows the contractor or local authority to cut the defect, crop the edges and clean the hole with one machine – mechanising jobs traditionally done by pothole gangs and delivering up to a 50% cut in daily costs. Safety is also improved as the gang does not have to complete the handheld cutting and breaking, eliminating the risk of hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS). Dawsongroup | emc, previously known as Dawsongroup | sweepers, is part of a global group of companies committed to providing an extensive product range, and first-class customer service across the supply chain. Their Smarter Asset Strategy is a solution that allows businesses to minimise risk while improving cash flow, efficiency and agility. For PotholePro rental details visit dawsongroupemc.co.uk. For more information about the revolutionary PotholePro visit jcb.com.... Read more...John Deere launches electric greens mowers and hybrid innovations at BTME 202327 January 2023EventsJohn Deere has launched two battery-powered, walk-behind greens mowers and announced further hybrid innovations to its existing product range. The 185 E-Cut and 225 E-Cut greens mowers will be shown for the first time in the UK at the British and International Golf Greenkeepers’ Association’s BTME event in Harrogate from 24-26 January. The two specialist machines are packed with the same quality components and technology that existing John Deere customers have become familiar with, but are powered by a 58-volt, 3.2kwh lithium battery. The 185 E-Cut has an 18-inch (457mm) cutting width while the larger 225 E-Cut takes a 22-inch (559mm) cut. With near-silent operation, the walk-behind machines can cut approximately 50,000 square feet of grass on a single charge, making them 30% more productive than similar models in their class. John Deere announced the products in America last year and has been putting them through their paces on courses for the past 12 months. Greenkeepers in the UK and Ireland will be able to order the machines later this year. Chris Meacock, John Deere’s Division Sales Manager for Golf and Turf, said: “Battery-powered innovations in the golf and professional sports turf markets have been moving forward apace for the past few years. “With the introduction of our first lithium battery-powered machines, we are able to provide a solution for our customers who are looking for a more favourable environmental profile, have on-site energy generation, or who are seeking significant reductions in the risk of leaks and spills.” Industry exclusive three-wheeled hybrid mower launched John Deere is also using BTME to showcase its industry-exclusive three-wheeled fairway mower with brushless electric reel motors. This is the first time customers can choose a three-wheeled fairway mower fitted with five, brushless electric reel motors. The same hybrid technology has also been applied to the four-wheeled 7700A E-Cut. This hybrid solution minimises 90% of the risk of hydraulic leaksby eliminating over 150 leak points. Users can experience fuel savings of up to 30% by operating at reduced throttle when mowing compared to PrecisionCut fairway mowers. Noise levels are also reduced by up to 3dB at reduced throttle. The alternator, controllers, and motors are designed to allow the machine to perform rigorous verticutting applications. The 6700A E-Cut and 7700A E-Cut will be available to order this year. “These two models have been two of our most popular products on golf courses for many years, so it’s an exciting step to be able to further develop our hybrid drive to offer greenkeepers reduced risks and more efficiency,” Mr Meacock said. John Deere connected technology to be demonstrated Visitors to the John Deere stand can take part in a demonstration of the company’s OnLink technology, showcasing the state-of-the-art fleet management system for greenkeepers. Utilising proven satellite technology from John Deere’s agriculture division in tandem with the integration of cloud-based management software and connected machines, OnLink allows users to automatically synchronise any machine and operator working anywhere on the course, managing activity remotely. For managers, this means tasks can be allocated days in advance, as well as increased accountability from operators. On top of these efficiencies, machinery maintenance schedules are simplified by using OnLink to track working hours remotely. “At John Deere, we believe the future of golf course maintenance is about connectivity, sustainability, autonomy, and intelligence, while embracing electric,” Mr Meacock said.... Read more...COMPACT JCB LOADALL SET TO MAKE MIGHTY IMPACT27 January 2023EventsJCB will unveil its smallest ever Loadall telescopic handler at the Executive Hire Show – where it will star alongside a series of products from the JCB E-Tech range of electric equipment. Shown for the first time, the 514-40 has a cab height of just 1.8m and a width of 1.56m. However, the compact machine benefits from the largest operator’s cab in the class and shares its core DNA with the world’s number one telehandler range. The full width cab is up to 200mm wider than competitors while lift capacity at full height is 12% higher than competitors. Electric Innovations The stand will also feature the JCB 19C-1E – the world’s first electric mini excavator. With zero exhaust emissions at point of use and considerably quieter than a standard machine, the pioneering model has been a huge success, with JCB celebrating production of its 1000th model in December 2022. Four lithium-ion batteries provide 20kWh of energy storage – enough for full working shift for the majority of mini excavator customers on a single charge. JCB will showcase its E-TECH power pack range which provides a zero-emissions solution to varying on-site electrical demand, creating no noise or vibrations at the point of use and allowing longer operation of electrical tools and machinery in urban and emissions-sensitive areas. The power packs are a further demonstration of JCB’s leading role in the move towards a cleaner, low-emission future for construction equipment, building upon the growing range of JCB E-TECH electric machinery available to customers. They will be joined on stand by further models from JCB’s powered access and portable generator line-ups.... Read more...Komatsu technology featured at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 designed to help owners improve efficiency and productivity26 January 2023Events / TechnologyJanuary 25, 2023 — Instilling predictability into operations, whether in construction, quarry, forestry, energy/utility, waste or other industries, can help drive greater productivity and efficiency. Komatsu recognizes that each business operation is unique and that finding the right tools is the key to business success. At CONEXPO, Komatsu will showcase a wide variety of technology designed to optimize productivity, no matter where a business is on its technology journey. In addition to helping to improve efficiency and productivity, the right technology can help to: Optimize fleet capabilitiesExtend machine life and improve valueHelp operators work with safety as a priorityReduce employee downtimeMeet increasing environmental requirements and reduce carbon footprintUpskill and retain employees and use them in the most productive ways through leveraging the right training and the right technologies At CONEXPO, Komatsu will showcase: Smart Construction technology Merging advanced automation and integrated technologies can transform job sites through predictability.Projects can go more smoothly when robust data is easily shared, replicated and updated.Komatsu can help with decisions reflective of job site, culture and budget.The currently available suite of Smart Construction products will be featured, including Dashboard, Design, Drone, Field, Fleet, Office, Remote and Retrofit. Smart Quarry technology Smart Quarry solutions are designed to help customers understand, visualize and optimize their job sites. Job site studies provide customers with customized, detailed data that may help them meet or even exceed their production targets.Solutions such as Smart Quarry Site take it a step further with continual production monitoring aimed to help increase efficiency, improve production and maintain a high level of performance. intelligent Machine Control 2.0 Designed to quickly lessen the skills gap between new and experienced operators, and improve the bottom line for contractors, Komatsu’s intelligent Machine Control (iMC) integrates with the company’s suite of Smart Construction products, services and digital solutions that incorporate a host of advanced, proprietary machine technology. Developed with input from leading construction companies, iMC gives contractors sophisticated, productivity-enhancing automation along with cutting-edge job site design. Among the iMC 2.0 machines in Komatsu’s booth will be the PC360LCi-11 excavator, as well as three dozers: D39PXi-24, D51PXi-25 and D71PXi-24. With the right products, latest technologies, actionable data and dealer support, Komatsu and its customers can create value together. To learn more, visit Komatsu at CONEXPO 2023 at booth W42044. Additional products and solutions will be highlighted at neighboring booths for Hensley Industries (W42028), and Montabert (W42229), both Komatsu subsidiaries.... Read more...Bobcat Compact Loader Creators Inducted into the American National Inventors Hall of Fame25 January 2023Compact Loaders / Equipment– Cyril and Louis Keller’s invention and contributions to the compact equipment industry are recognised at national level - Cyril and Louis Keller, the brothers who invented the world’s first compact loader (later named the Bobcat skid-steer loader), have been selected as 2023 inductees for the National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF) in the USA. The NIHF annually recognizes inventors, promotes creativity and advances the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. How it all began In the 1950s, brothers Cyril and Louis operated a small machinist-blacksmith shop in Minnesota together, building and repairing machinery for local farmers. A farmer approached them with a need for a self-propelled loader light enough to be lifted to the second floor of a turkey barn and small enough to clean around the barn’s upright poles. In response, in 1957, the Kellers built a three-wheeled loader with two drive wheels in front and a caster wheel in the rear – the predecessor to the modern skid-steer loader. The loader came to the attention of Melroe Manufacturing Company (now Bobcat), which invited the Kellers to demonstrate their invention in their booth at the Minnesota State Fair in 1958. After a successful demonstration at the fair, the Melroe Manufacturing Company was awarded exclusive manufacturing rights to the machine on a royalty basis and hired the Keller brothers to refine the design and put the machine into production. World’s first true skid-steer loader To improve on the design of the loader, a second set of drive wheels was added to the back of the loader in 1960. With this four-wheel drive, the M400 became the world’s first true skid-steer loader. ‘Skid-steer’ describes the unique steering system, which enables the machine to turn within its own length. Later, the Bobcat brand name was established because of the machine’s toughness, quickness and agility. Joe Keller, son of Louis, said, “The Bobcat loader has positively impacted the lives of thousands of employees who have worked for the company, dealers who sell the machines, and customers who use the equipment every day to build their livelihood. While we may not always realize its impact, it is an integral part of our everyday life—from supporting farm operations that result in food on our tables to hauling materials around a jobsite building our homes and offices.” Sixty-five years later As Bobcat celebrates 65 years since the invention of the machine that created the compact equipment industry, it has continued to forge the future of the industry through innovation and forward-thinking. Bobcat now offers more than 100 products in the compact, grounds maintenance and industrial equipment industries, and produces more than 150 families of attachments. Other awarded inventors Other NIHF 2023 inductees include Rory Cooper, who invented wheelchair technology; Luis von Ahn, who co-created the website security program reCAPTCHA; Angela Hartley Brodie, who discovered and developed a class of drugs called Aromatase Inhibitors that stop the production of hormones that fuel the growth of cancer cells; and 14 other innovation pioneers. This year marks the 50th anniversary event of NIHF’s founding in 1973, when Thomas Edison was the sole inductee. Acknowledging the award on behalf of his father and uncle, Joe Keller said, “This recognition is a great honour to dad and Cyril’s families, but it is not just for us. It is a recognition for all of the early and current Bobcat employees who have helped bring our little ‘Keller loader’ to be the Bobcat machine it is today. It has been a great honour to have had a front-row seat watching this invention revolutionize the way work gets done around the world.” For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com... Read more...SANY returns to the Executive Hire Show 202325 January 2023Events23 January 2023; SANY UK & Ireland is delighted to be exhibiting at the Executive Hire Show next month, where the manufacturer will be showcasing a range of machines for the construction and UK plant hire industry that offer exceptional overall value combined with toughness and durability. Making its UK debut will be the SY19E, the new electric excavator which was unveiled at bauma 2022. As well as zero emissions, the LFP battery pack of this 100% electric machine has been designed without cobalt making it particularly environmentally friendly and safe to operate. Significantly lower noise levels (66 dB(A)) for improved operator comfort and reduced noise pollution, also makes for cleaner, more sustainable working. Equipped with an electric motor that delivers a peak output of 15 kW, along with the efficient load-sensing hydraulic system, it ensures a fast workflow and high-level output. Along with the multiple charging options that come as standard including a fast charge of 1.5hrs and long battery life of up to 6hrs the machine guarantees total flexibility on site Also on the stand will be the SY26U with Stage V Yanmar engine and load sensing hydraulics to maximise on fuel economy. Plus, the popular 8.8-tonne SY80U compact excavator which comes with rotate lines and proportional controls, 100% steel bodywork and good service access. All excavators come with SANY’s industry leading 5-year warranty as standard giving customers peace of mind when it comes to the quality and cost of ownership of the machines and perhaps most importantly the range is available ex-stock or with very short lead times. Commenting on the show, Leigh Harris, Business Development Director for the UK & Ireland said, “We’re delighted to be exhibiting for the second time at the Executive Hire Show in February. Our last show here in February 2022 was a great success, so we’re really looking forward to meeting more people within the plant and tool hire industry and showing them what SANY machines have to offer”. The Executive Hire Show is the national exhibition for the tools, equipment and plant hire industry and you can visit SANY in Hall 1, on Stand C20. The show is to be held on Wednesday 8th and Thursday 9th February at the Coventry Building Society Arena, Judds Lane, Coventry, CV6 6GE.... Read more...Kubota (Europe) Launches Online ‘Kubota Group Solutions Hub’19 January 2023TechnologyKubota has launched an exciting online communication website called Kubota Group Solutions Hub. This new platform, www.kubota-group.eu, is a joint initiative out of the European Kubota Organisation (KHE), bringing innovative customer solutions from the various brands under the Kubota Group umbrella, such as Kubota, Great Plains, Vicon, Kverneland, Fede and ROC. How should we address the great challenges of our time? Can we shape a better future together? Kubota puts high focus on the development of innovative solutions that meet our sustainable goals and mission: For Earth, For Life. The Kubota Group Solutions Hub brings various stories about customer solutions with technologies that enable customers to successfully overcome challenges and pain points, under the themes of Innovations, Sustainability, Connectivity, Automation and Efficiency. Each story describes the challenge faced, the solution provided from each brand, along with videos and customer testimonials. Moreover, at the conclusion of each story, there is a description of how these solutions specifically contribute towards the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Visitors can discover various stories shared by Kubota’s Tractor, Construction and Engine divisions, as well as from Fede, Kverneland Group (Kverneland, Vicon and ROC) and Great Plains Manufacturing. This new platform also enables the various Kubota Group companies to progressively ramp up communications towards key industry events later this year like the next AGRITECHNICA that will take place from 12 to 18 November 2023 in Hannover, Germany. Explore the Kubota Group Solutions Hub: https://kubota-group.eu... Read more...UK Debut for Bobcat E19e Electric Excavator at Executive Hire Show19 January 2023Events– Doosan Portable Power also showing popular 7/45 portable compressor – Doosan Bobcat will be showing the company’s new E19e two-tonne electric mini-excavator for the first time in the UK on Stand I40 at the Executive Hire Show (EHS) from 8-9 February 2023 at the Coventry Building Society Arena in Coventry. Alongside the E19e, the company will also be presenting the popular 7/45 portable compressor from sister company, Doosan Portable Power. The EHS is firmly established as the only annual national event aimed at tool, equipment and plant hirers and the suppliers serving this dynamic industry. The EHS enables hire professionals to not only see key suppliers they already do business with, in one place, but also to get in front of new companies from around the world who are looking to serve this important market. Clean and Quiet Operations Building on the success of Bobcat’s smaller E10e, the world’s first 1 tonne electric mini-excavator, the E19e adds to Bobcat’s expanding range of electrically powered machines. As a true pioneer in the field of battery-powered equipment, Bobcat is driving an industry-wide shift towards electric excavators and other construction equipment such as the company’s unique T7X model, the world’s first electric compact track loader. The Bobcat E19e features the same profile, external dimensions and comparable performance as the popular E19 mini-excavator, more than 10,000 of which have been sold worldwide. The E19e boasts the same stability, lift capacity and breakout forces as its conventional counterpart, while its constant torque curve (a feature of electric motors) ensures dependable and powerful operations. With a width of just 98 cm, the new electric model is easy to operate in even the most confined workspaces, making it ideal for tasks such as demolition as well as outside applications that require quiet, zero-emission operations. The E19e features a 3.5-hour battery capacity and can be recharged quickly using a super-fast charger. This means that by topping up the power during work breaks, the machine can be used all day for the majority of typical applications. Thanks to the model’s ergonomic design, its battery capacity and service codes are clearly displayed, making planning simple. The E19e is also immensely versatile, with a wide array of compatible attachments available. Bobcat’s hydraulic clamp attachment, for example, is unique in the market for this size category. Doosan 7/45 Stage V Compressor Continues Success in the Market Designed with a focus on simplicity, durability, reliability and transportability, the 7/45 Stage V portable compressor provides 4.0 m³/min (140 cfm) of compressed air at 7 bar nominal pressure. Like all Doosan portable compressors, there is a wide range of options and customizations available for the 7/45 to meet customer needs. The 7/45 Stage V compressor on the EHS stand will feature a Tough Top (polymer) canopy, which is a standard feature on all the latest small compressors from Doosan Portable Power. This easy-to-open canopy creates a fantastic line with the polymer mudguards and bumpers. Integrated LED lights are also offered as standard for all the machines as well as environmentally important bunded bases. The long-standing metal canopy versions are still available to customers as an option. There are three more 7 bar Stage V compressor models in the small compressor range including the 7/20, 7/25 and 7/55, with outputs of 2.0, 2.5 and 5.0 m³/min (70, 90 and 180 cfm), respectively. The small compressor range is completed by the 14/35 higher pressure model providing 3.0 m³/min (105 cfm) of compressed air at 13.8 bar. The E19e and E10e are part of a comprehensive selection of mini-excavators from Bobcat covering models from 0.8 to 8.5 tonne, alongside a full line-up of skid-steer, compact track and all-wheel steer loaders, telehandlers, compact wheel and small articulated loaders and attachments. Also aimed at the tool and plant hire industry and the markets it serves, Doosan Portable Power offers a comprehensive range of portable compressors, generators and lighting products for the construction and rental industry. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit www.bobcat.com For more information about Doosan Portable Power products, visit the website: www.doosanportablepower.eu... Read more...Last crane finishes work on the Spin Tower in Frankfurt19 January 2023CranesTwo 230 HC-L 8/16 and two EC-B cranes from Liebherr have been helping build the 128 metre-high hotel and office tower Liebherr Tower Crane Solutions developed a cost-effective concept for external climbing Multiple load hooks in a small area required precise planning of crane positioning After three and a half years, the 230 HC-L 8/16 has carried out its last lift. With a final hook height of approx. 180 metres, the Liebherr luffing jib crane was the tallest crane on “The Spin” project in Frankfurt – and also the last remaining crane on site. It was dismantled in mid-November. Another 230 HC-L 8/16 and two flat-top cranes, a 150 EC-B 8 and a 110 EC-B 6, had already been taken down at an earlier date. Frankfurt (Germany), 19 January 2023 – When Liebherr’s Tower Crane Solutions project department started planning crane operations almost five years ago, the dismantling of the 230 HC-L 8/16 was already on the agenda. To ensure a smooth climb down, the crane, with its radius of 55 metres, had to be able to negotiate the new hotel and office tower without colliding with it. And it needed to do so along a façade with multiple projections. The upper storeys are each at a slightly rotated angle compared to the lower ones so that the 128 metre-high tower doesn’t have a uniform, smooth-running exterior. On top of that, there was little leeway in the choice of crane location due to the confines of the construction site and the busy Mainzer Landstraße road. Minimal guying made interior outfitting easier Tower Crane Solutions solved this challenge with just as much precision as the anchoring needed for the HC-L. The luffing jib crane was climbed on the outside of the building. “The guying required for this needed to affect as few hotel rooms as possible,” explains Julia Wiebeck, project manager at Tower Crane Solutions. Interior work on the hotel started while construction was still underway on the upper part of the tower. “If the guying had blocked too many of the hotel rooms, it would have been difficult to keep to the interior work schedule,” says Julia Wiebeck. Liebherr and the project developer Groß & Partner came up with a solution for this together. The 230 HC-L 8/16 was anchored to the building with three guy lines, two in the hotel area and one at office floor level. The crane climbed on a 24 HC 630 tower system measuring 2.4 x 2.4 metres. Positioned on a 6 x 6 metre gauge undercarriage, the 230 HC-L 8/16 was the only crane to climb on this project. High freestanding hook height achieved Another 230 HC-L 8/16 was assembled in a freestanding position at a tower height of 84.3 metres. It wasn’t possible to erect the crane directly at the tower, which meant that there wasn’t a way to attach it to the building for external climbing. This exceptionally high freestanding hook height could only be achieved by using strong foundation anchors together with a tower combination of 24 HC 630 and 24 HC 1250 tower systems. Foundation anchors were also chosen for securing the 150 EC-B 8 and 110 EC-B 6 cranes. “Given the inner-city conditions, all assembly steps for the two 230 HC-L tower cranes and the two flat-top cranes required precise planning, preparation and handling by our customer GP Con and Nagel Baumaschinen Frankfurt GmbH as sales and service partner. Working together with Liebherr Tower Crane Solutions, we always found the right technical and economically feasible solution,” says sales manager Jürgen Schmitt from Nagel Baumaschinen Frankfurt GmbH. “Work with Liebherr and Nagel has been all about competence, professionalism and customer orientation throughout, right from the initial crane concept through to dismantling the cranes. It meant that inner-city requirements could be met and complex construction conditions overcome,” says Dennis Ferdinand, senior construction manager at GP Con GmbH. “Planning the use of the two high-rise cranes allowed the climbing stages to be compensated for and an economical solution was achieved while still meeting performance requirements.” The cranes assisted in the construction of the tower and development of its surroundings. Featuring intelligent assistance systems, such as the Micromove fine positioning mode, the Liebherr cranes mainly helped with concreting, formwork and façade-related tasks. The luffing jib cranes were operated in 1-line mode for high and fast performance and were therefore able to carry out lifts with a weight of up to eight tonnes. A distinctive tower design And so, a new tower has been rising on the Frankfurt skyline since spring 2019. “The Spin” is one of three high-rise buildings that have now been erected on Güterplatz. A new place to live and work has been created between the trade fair centre and the main railway station on what had been derelict land for decades. The 32-storey Spin Tower, designed by top architect Hadi Teherani, offers space for a premium hotel, offices and a roof terrace with spectacular views. According to project developer Groß & Partner, the tower impresses with an accomplished visual separation of its two uses: Whereas the ascendant, smooth lower section will house the hotel, the upper section opens up with an angular floor design. It is this feature which gives the tower its distinctive character and name. The Spin Tower is easily accessible by public transport and the hotel is scheduled to open in spring 2023. Custom construction site solution The invaluable expertise of Tower Crane Solutions was crucial to the success of an inner-city construction project like this one. Projecting edges from adjacent buildings and tight construction site conditions required careful crane selection and precise crane concept planning before the start of construction. This meant that the limited available space on the 2,600 m² site was used effectively and efficiently for crane operations.... Read more...SMT GB officially appointed as a Unicontrol distributor in Great Britain18 January 2023TechnologyThe Unicontrol 3D machine control system can now be retrofitted to the majority of construction equipment products in Great Britain. Created by Danish developers in collaboration with Scandinavian contractors, Unicontrol’s system has not just been designed with the operator in mind, but as a platform that grows with end users through adoption of machine control technology.The result of this collaborative development approach is a straightforward, intuitive and user-friendly system that offers operators the ability to progress through projects with greater speed and precision.Utilising advanced GPS and 3D modelling technology, Unicontrol’s 3D machine control system allows operators to work more independently, as the indicative system provides accurate information on required digging depths, grades and shapes for the operator to work to.Designed to be retrofitted to machines, the system represents a retainable investment for customers, as one of the key advantages of the Unicontrol 3D machine control system over other competing systems is its versatility, as it is not tied to any one machine within a customer’s fleet and is designed to be interchangeable.Additionally, with the benefits of the system extending far beyond the cab, Unicontrol uses a powerful cloud-based app to allow customers to manage both their fleet and projects effectively.Using the app, a customer’s engineering and fleet management teams can create entire projects digitally, assign specific machines fitted with Unicontrol’s system from their fleet to carry out these projects, view insight data from the machines working on the project and, if required, even make adjustments to the project as it progresses. Commenting on SMT GB’s appointment as the largest Unicontrol distributor in Great Britain, Product Manager John Lawrence states: “The UK market is faced with many challenges. Making a cost-effective, easy-to-use 3D machine control system available to construction companies will alleviate some of that pressure.”Unicontrol Chief Commercial Officer Ehsanullah Ehklas adds: “The UK market faces the same challenges as the entire industry, shortages of skilled labour, tighter cost controls and escalating supply chain pressures. A cost-effective, easy-to-use 3D machine control system will remove some of that pressure, and ensure that the operator can do their work quickly and safely. SMT GB’s service level and expertise are an excellent match for us, and we look forward to introducing the benefits of Unicontrol 3D to the UK market together!” Concluding, John adds: “Unicontrol 3D provides exactly what the industry has been looking for – a simple and user-friendly 3D machine control solution. Its adaptability is key to what I feel makes a great product. Unicontrol was the first system available for excavators, and has now evolved to offer a blade, wheel loader and survey rover system. The Unicontrol cloud allows the complete array of solutions to cohabit seamlessly.” To learn more about Unicontrol, please visit the SMT GB website.... Read more...Hyundai Doosan Infracore Reveals New Brand for Its Construction Equipment: ‘DEVELON’18 January 2023Construction / Equipment / EventsIncorporating the message to “Move onwards to the future with innovation”Online brand showcase to be held in February, and equipment with the new brand name to be revealed at CONEXPO-CON/AGG in March Hyundai Doosan Infracore (HDI) is replacing the DOOSAN brand on its construction equipment and introducing its new brand named ‘DEVELON’. The change takes place a year and a half since August 2021 when HDI became a subsidiary of HD Hyundai. HDI will be changing the brand name on its construction equipment to ‘DEVELON’, confirming this as its new global brand identity today 18th January 2023. DEVELON is a combination of the words ‘Develop’ and ‘Onwards’. The new brand name conveys the direction of HDI to move onwards to the future through innovation and its intention to relentlessly change the world with innovative products and solutions. HDI has planned the launch of the new brand since it became a subsidiary of HD Hyundai in August 2021. It plans to take a leap forward to becoming a global top-tier player in the construction equipment industry with the launch of the new brand. With the change of the brand name, the new DEVELON decal will be used on HDI’s construction equipment. “Our three construction equipment businesses have already solidified their status as one of the key business pillars of HD Hyundai and have built an unwavering foundation for achieving performance targets and creating synergistic effects among them, amid the rapidly changing global economic environment,” said Cho Young-cheul, CEO of HDI, who added, “DEVELON will lead the future market of electrification and automation to spur growth and continue to be a brand of choice for our customers.” HDI plans to introduce a more detailed brand story and vision by releasing a ‘New Brand Showcase’ through social media by the end of February. It will also unveil equipment with the new brand name DEVELON at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023, which will be held in Las Vegas in the US this coming March.... Read more...Bobcat Sells New CT2535 Compact Tractor at LAMMA 202318 January 2023EventsAnthony Atkinson of AGMS, a grounds maintenance and agricultural contractor based in Sharpness in Gloucestershire, has purchased the first Bobcat Compact Tractor to be shown in the UK on the Bobcat stand at the LAMMA Exhibition from 10-11 January 2023. The sale was agreed at the LAMMA show with Richard Young, Sales Manager at Abingdon-based TVE Hire & Sales Ltd (TVE), the Authorised Bobcat dealer for South West England. Anthony Atkinson operates his business in three main sectors – Pitch Management Services, Smallholding & Equestrian Services and Small Agricultural Services. He commented: “With the expansion in my business, I came to LAMMA to find a new dedicated compact tractor to replace the old compact tractor that helped me start and grow my business. I had a look at several machines at the show, but decided on the new CT2535 tractor on the Bobcat stand for the cab comfort, ergonomics and easy maintenance as well as the excellent attachment versatility.” Excellent Tool Carriers and Choice of Attachments Alastair Jones, UK Sales Manager for Bobcat’s new Ground Maintenance Equipment (GME) range, said: “TheCT2535 is one of nine Compact Tractor models that form part of the GME range. To illustrate the variety of attachment choice for the Compact Tractor range, the CT2535 shown at LAMMA had a Front End Loader and a bucket as well as a rear Tiller attachment. To make sure all jobs get tackled, other compatible attachments include pallet forks, utility forks, utility grapples, mid-mount mowers, backhoes, box blades, rakes and seeders. “Bobcat’s Compact Tractors can be equipped with front, mid and rear connections and power take-offs. The proven Bob-Tach system comes as standard on all front-end loader platforms, enabling users to switch attachments for multiple jobs easily, delivering greater value and versatility for their businesses.” Bobcat Compact Tractors to Suit Every Requirement As part of the GME range, there are three Bobcat Compact Tractor platforms – the 1000, 2000 and 4000 series – which feature nine new models designed to meet the needs of European customers. The CT2535 cabbed model purchased by Anthony Atkinson will be equipped with turf tyres and is part of the 2000 series. Each model varies in size and engine horsepower, with the option to choose between manual and hydrostatic transmissions, and open canopies (ROPS) and cabs. As well as Compact Tractors, Bobcat’s innovative GME line-up includes zero-turn mowers and Ryan Turfcare equipment, supplemented by the company’s new MT100 mini track and small articulated loaders. The CT2535 was one of several new products shown by Bobcat for the first time in the UK at the LAMMA 2023 exhibition, including the brand new super compact TL25.60 R-series telehandler and the new MT100 mini track loader. Quality Service for Bobcat Customers As well as sales of the entire Bobcat range of machines and attachments, TVE offers a full selection of genuine Bobcat accessories and parts to support customers in its area. This is backed up by a stock of both brand new and second hand Bobcat machines for sale. Customers also benefit from TVE’s on-site service network, covering everything from emergency repairs to routine maintenance. A Growing Product Range In the last two years, Bobcat has entered the European wheel loader market for compact wheel loaders and small articulated loaders, as well as launching the company’s new generation R-Series telehandlers and compact loaders. The Bobcat R-Series telehandler range for agriculture provides a choice of eight models with Stage V engines. The new telehandlers cover maximum lifting capacities between 2.5 and 4.3 tonne with lifting heights from 6 to 8 m. Bobcat R-Series telehandlers offer a premium workspace with a new cab design. The Bobcat range also offers 10 skid-steer loaders including the brand new R-Series S86 model, complementing these wheeled machines with a selection of five compact track loaders, including the latest R-Series T86 top-of-the-range model. Bobcat offers an extensive portfolio of mini-excavators from 1.0 to 8.9 tonne, including two electric models, a full range of construction telehandlers and a full range of light compaction machinery. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com Picture caption – L to r – Richard Young, TVE; Anthony Atkinson and Alastair Jones, Bobcat... Read more...Five Equipment Manufacturing Trends to Watch in 202311 January 2023Equipment / NewsBy the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) MILWAUKEE – With 2022 firmly in the rear view mirror and the new year now underway, it’s clear many of the opportunities and challenges impacting equipment manufacturers today are poised to remain as relevant as ever in the weeks and months ahead. While it’s a fool’s errand to try and predict exactly how 2023 will unfold for the industry, equipment manufacturers would be wise to pay close attention to a number of trends and how they may evolve in the near term. With that in mind, AEM caught up with several staff leaders to hear which ones, specifically, are top-of-mind for them at the moment. 1. THE INDUSTRY-WIDE EMPHASIS ON ORGANISATIONAL CULTURE – By Jaime Vos, AEM Senior Director of Revenue Development and Cultural Innovation With so much change taking place in 2022, organisations in many industries, including equipment manufacturing, are being forced to respond by re-examining their business models. Supply chain issues, increased competition, technology advancements and economic uncertainty have all placed pressure on companies to adapt, innovate and rethink how they do business. In addition to these challenges, leadership will also need to address the morale of their workforce this year. What many have called the Great Resignation has affected organisations of all sizes and has made employee retention the single most important issue of 2023. After struggling through the COVID-19 pandemic, people are now re-evaluating their role in the workplace. Many have placed a stronger value on their health and have chosen to accept other opportunities better aligned with their personal well-being. Taking this into account, organisations will need to create a shared vision that supports the following areas for its employees: Employee valuesWork/life balanceCreativity and collaborationMental health awareness and supportHybrid telecommuting modelsOpportunities for career growth Studies show that employees who feel recognised, respected and supported do more than what is expected. If organisations want to strengthen employee retention, leaders will need to communicate openly with workers, listen to their concerns, address issues in real time and provide opportunities that empower a healthy culture. Employees want to feel valued in their roles. Organisations that create a shared vision of well-being for their staff will see their culture empowered, inspired and committed to a prosperous new year. 2. THE NEW NORMAL OF EMPLOYEE TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT – By Julie Davis, AEM Senior Director of Workforce and Industry Initiatives, SHRM-CP Workforce issues remain so prevalent in equipment manufacturing today, that it’s simply not enough to foster a strong organisational culture in order to meet workforce demand. Fewer people working coupled with more jobs, more diversity in available jobs and more competition across industries make workforce arguably the most pressing issue as 2023 gets underway. Because of these challenges, employee training and development should be a top priority for equipment manufacturers in 2023 and beyond. While employee training and development may be a budgetary afterthought for some equipment manufacturers, it’s becoming increasingly clear up-skilling, re-skilling and new-skilling employees on an ongoing basis is fast becoming the new normal, and here’s why. Consider someone who has an engine spread out in a garage, is wiring his or her friend’s hunting cabin, or is the neighbourhood handyman and, based on his or her hobbies, interests and personal aptitude, the person would be a good fit to work in the skilled trades. Imagine being able to cast an organisational hiring net to consider people based on the skills, talents and interests that would make working in the skilled trades good fit instead of hiring someone based on skills used in a job a person could get as a 20-year-old. (Let’s face it, none of us were working in the job we wanted at that point, we were working in the job we could get.) This is exactly how skills-based hiring works, and it results in having a wider talent pool from which to recruit. The catch is equipment manufacturers must be able assess individual skills and then train them to competency. (This can be done either by partnering actively with education, possessing trainers OR a combination of the two.) The government funded the Apprenticeship Building America grants program to the tune of $121.7 million dollars in 2022. Why? Because apprenticeship and work-based learning programs done right continue to be a proven way to train, attract and retain workers think again. Can’t set one up? Think again. Partners like Apprenticeship Works, JFF and GPS Education can guide organisations through the process both efficiently and effectively. The workforce is aging, and employees at every level with critical masses of knowledge are walking out the door every day. What questions are asked before they leave, and how is their knowledge being captured and transferred to the person who will be taking their place. Three years ago, before the surge of retirements that came with COVID-19, surveyed Baby Boomers said: 57% have shared half or less of the knowledge needed to perform their job responsibilities with those who will assume them after they retire21% have shared none of their knowledgeOnly 18% have shared all of their knowledge Transferring knowledge is poised to work best when training and development is already normalised within a company’s culture. Trainers and educators are taxed to keep pace with technological advancements, yet new skillsets are needed every day. There is no automation to off-set workforce shortages without up-skilling or new-skilling workers to use advancing equipment. Ready or not, partnering, internal training and ongoing learning is here to stay. 3. THE ONGOING IMPACT OF SUPPLY CHAIN ISSUES – By Kip Eideberg, AEM Senior Vice President of Government and Industry Relations It has been an issue for several years now, and unfortunately equipment manufacturers will continue to hear about it for a while– the supply chain. There is no denying the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic turned the world on its head, but it was tough to predict just how long the supply chain would be impacted by the pandemic. A recent AEM survey of 179 equipment manufacturers revealed that 98% of equipment manufacturers are still battling with an unreliable supply chain – and over half (58%) are experiencing worsening conditions. AEM confirmed that the two driving factors of these supply chain woes stem from workforce shortages and access to intermediate components for production. These things coupled together paint a stark picture, but there are reasons to be optimistic that supply chain challenges will start to abate over the course of this year. One thing is certain, equipment manufacturers remain willing to rise to the occasion and adapt. AEM continues to survey our member company executives to better understand how they are impacted by continued high inflation, strained supply chains and global instability, and to provide elected officials with the data points they need to move legislation that will revitalise U.S. manufacturing and bolster U.S. global competitiveness. Republicans and Democrats can take immediate action to alleviate these problems by prioritising an extension of research and development (R&D) expensing, enacting meaningful permitting reform, removing tariffs on a host of critical components, and reaching a bipartisan, long-term agreement on the debt ceiling this year. 4. THE RISE OF ALTERNATIVE POWER – By Jason Malcore, AEM Senior Director Safety & Product Leadership Governmental agencies and non-governmental organisations throughout Europe and across North America and Asia continue to look for new opportunities to transition their automotive and equipment fleets toward new decarbonised technologies. These pressures and motivations reveal themselves in the form of new rules and regulations on internal combustion engine emissions and incentive programs for zero-emission equipment purchases. In addition, increasing customer demands for hybrid and zero-emission vehicles also highlight the industry’s evolution and direction in this space. Some examples of anticipated industry pressures in 2023 are as follows: California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) continued rulemakings and public workshops regarding the next stage of California’s engine emissions regulationsThe implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act’s tax incentives for the electrification of light duty, commercial and heavy-duty vehicles.Federal and state executive announcements to decarbonise the U.S. economyZero-emissions requirements for small engines under 25 horsepower Diesel fuel is the primary power source for the non-road equipment industry, and it will likely continue to be for the foreseeable future. However, if one thing’s for certain, it’s this year will spotlight the many alternative power challenges and opportunities facing the non-road equipment industry and represent an inflection point for new power sources over the coming decade. 5. THE ACCELERATION OF COMMUNICATION AND CONNECTION – By Kate Huskin, AEM Senior Director of Communications The key to driving change in an organisation is rooted in an organisations ability to communicate effectively and build lasting connections with important stakeholders. In 2023, communications will take on a leading role in helping organisations address challenges, identify opportunities and drive success. Effective communications happens from the inside out, and a renewed focus on internal communications will be needed to help organisations establish and “walk the talk” of their culture, putting actions behind the words on their websites and internalising how they wanted to be viewed and accepted by their employees, prospective employees, customers, partners, and the marketplace at large. During the pandemic, communications leaders across the globe were faced with unprecedented communication challenges that required a new playbook for sharing up-to-the-minute information. This has forever changed the way we look at crisis communications, and communications and public relations teams are in a new normal of crisis communications. The equipment manufacturing trends listed above, from organisational change and employee training and development, to supply chain challenges and the rise of alternative power, are challenges that will be driven by communications and an organisation’s ability to connect and support its internal and external stakeholders. About the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) AEM is the North America-based international trade group representing off-road equipment manufacturers and suppliers with more than 1,000 companies and more than 200 product lines in the agriculture and construction-related industry sectors worldwide. The equipment manufacturing industry in the United States supports 2.8 million jobs and contributes roughly $288 billion to the economy every year.... Read more...Complete security solutions from Datatag at the EHS 202310 January 2023EventsDatatag ID the power behind the official CESAR Scheme will exhibit at the unmissable Executive Hire Show (EHS) on stand K9 on the 8th and 9th of February at the Coventry Building Society Arena, Coventry. The EHS is the UK’s most important show for the tool and plant hire industry. Datatag through its extensive work with the Official CESAR Scheme recognised the major issue of fuel theft and developed a smart technological solution. The result is VENOM. A formulation of a unique forensic DNA and visible green dye will be shown at EHS 2023. VENOM can be supplied to give a company an individual DNA identifier. VENOM is mixable with Petrol, Diesel and HVO fuels. Sealed with a KIST… Datatag will also be showcasing its KIST Asset Management solution. Developed using MicroCESAR as a key equipment identifier, KIST allows companies to keep track and manage vital equipment and vehicles via easy-to-use mobile and desktop applications. The Official CESAR Scheme and the Emissions Compliance Verification (ECV) advancement to help “Police” Air Quality within Construction will also feature on stand K9 in the main hall. The evolution of CESAR… In 2019, the CEA and Datatag ID announced the launch of the biggest evolution of the CESAR scheme to date; the addition of Emissions Compliance Verification (ECV). ECV takes the machine’s engine emission standard from the engine’s EU Type Approval number and displays it on a simple to read colour coded plate. ECV provides a quick and easy reference point where machines are working on sites where they are required to comply with Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM) emission regulations. The CESAR ECV system combines the technology behind the security marking scheme with an additional colour-coded plate showing the engine emission stage from stage two through to stage five and now includes electric and, coming soon hydrogen. The information about the machine is then collated on a comprehensive, secure database accessible through the ECV clearing portal. This information enables plant owners and operators, contractors and site managers to comply with any local policy or contractual obligation in place regarding machinery emissions levels. JCB and Hitachi were among the first manufacturers to fit the CESAR ECV scheme as standard in early 2020 – the scheme has now been adopted by over 93% of OEMs and leading machine dealers in the construction sector. The Official CESAR Scheme… To date, more than 550 thousand items of equipment have been marked with unique multi-layered technology to give each machine a unique identity. The universally recognised triangular CESAR registration plate has become the industry standard identification mark. CESAR marking of construction and agricultural machinery has contributed significantly to a decline in thefts since the scheme was first launched in 1997. Visit www.executivehireshow.co.uk for more details on the show. Put the 8th and 9th February 2023 in your diary: The Datatag team looks forward to welcoming you back to the Coventry Building Society Arena – the home of hire! Registration is open and it’s free.... Read more...First Showing in UK for New Bobcat Products at LAMMA 202310 January 2023Events– Bobcat TL25.60 Telehandler and CT2535 Compact Tractor on display – Bobcat is showing several new products for the first time in the UK at the LAMMA 2023 exhibition from 10-11 January 2023 (on Stand 19.200 in Hall 19). Centre stage is one of the highlights of the show, Bobcat’s brand new super compact TL25.60 R-series telehandler. With a lifting capacity of 2.5 tonne and a lifting height of up to 5.9 m, the new TL25.60 telehandler is the most compact model in the Bobcat range. John Christofides, Regional Sales Director for Bobcat EMEA s.r.o., said: “The TL25.60 may be super compact, but this model still has a full-size cab with the same dimensions as the cabs on the larger TL30.60 and TL30.70 models, which makes it the most spacious super-compact telehandler on the market today. At LAMMA, we will be showing the TL25.60 together with our top-of-the-range TL43.80HF agricultural telehandler.” Also being shown for the first time in the UK is the CT2535 compact tractor, one of nine models that form part of the company’s new groundcare range. Alongside the CT2535 is the new MT100 mini track loader, which is on view for the first time in the UK at LAMMA. Excellent Tool Carriers and Choice of Attachments Another key aspect of the Bobcat stand at LAMMA is the company’s unrivalled range of attachments. The new CT2535, MT100 and TL25.60 are all excellent tool carriers and Bobcat offers the advantage of the best offering in the industry in terms of attachments available on these machines. To illustrate the variety of attachment choice for the compact tractor range, the CT2535 being shown at LAMMA has a Front End Loader and a bucket as well as a Tiller attachment. To make sure all jobs get tackled, other compatible attachments include pallet forks, utility forks, utility grapples, mid-mount mowers, backhoes, box blades, rakes and seeders. For the MT100, this new model has all of the attachments that were available on the previous MT55 model, plus a few additional attachments including the new Brushcat and Log Grapple attachments from Bobcat. It is the same for the TL25.60, where a full list of approved attachments includes grapples, augers, sweepers and snow blades. Eight Agricultural Telehandlers with lifting heights from 6 to 8 m With the new TL25.60 model, Bobcat’s R-Series agricultural telehandler range provides a choice of the eight models below with Stage V engines, covering maximum lifting capacities between 2.5 and 4.3 tonne with lifting heights from 5.9 to 8 m: Super compact and Compact models – TL25.60, TL26.60, TL30.60 and TL30.70 Large models – TL35.70, TL34.65HF, TL38.70HF and TL43.80HF All Bobcat R-Series telehandlers offer a premium workspace with a state-of-the-art cab design. The new high quality, contemporary interior of the cab features stand-out R-Series branding, colours and textures that clearly reflect Bobcat’s DNA. In the ergonomic design, all surfaces have been optimised to offer increased space and visibility. Bobcat Compact Tractors to Suit Every Requirement As part of the GME (Ground Maintenance Equipment) range, there are three Bobcat compact tractor platforms – the 1000, 2000 and 4000 series – which feature nine new models designed to meet the needs of European customers. Each model varies in size and engine horsepower, with the option to choose between manual and hydrostatic transmissions, and open canopies (ROPS) and cabs. The CT2535 cabbed model being shown at LAMMA is part of the 2000 series. Bobcat’s compact tractors can be equipped with front, mid and rear connections and power take-offs. The proven Bob-Tach system comes as standard on all front-end loader platforms, enabling users to switch attachments for multiple jobs easily, delivering greater value and versatility for their businesses. As well as compact tractors, Bobcat’s innovative GME line-up includes zero-turn mowers and Ryan Turfcare equipment, supplemented by the company’s new MT100 mini track and small articulated loaders. Loaders Designed with Versatility in Mind The new MT100 mini track loader and the company’s L23 and L28 small articulated loaders remove the need for manual labour, replacing the use of wheelbarrows, shovels and hand tools across multiple ground maintenance applications. These machines are also versatile tool carriers, with a broad range of compatible attachments that enable contractors to maximize productivity and safety when undertaking ground maintenance tasks. With a standard width of just 904 mm (increasing to 1045 mm with the Wide Track Option providing increased stability and lower ground pressure), the reduced dimensions of the new MT100 provide easy passage through narrow gates and doorways and facilitate work in confined spaces. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com... Read more...GOLDHOFER AT CONEXPO-CON/AGG, MARCH 14-18, 2023, LAS VEGAS (NV) OUTDOOR STAND D223910 January 2023EventsAt CONEXPO-CON/AGG Goldhofer is presenting no fewer than four highlights for the American market at outdoor stand D2239. A STZ-VL4 (3+1) lowboy trailer with flip axle and deck inserts, the »P12 PLUS« highway trailer recently introduced specifically for the US market, and an »ADDRIVE« 2.0 combined with the FTV 850, the global leading wind turbine blade carrier built by Goldhofer. The STZ-VL lowboy trailerTime is the key in the grueling everyday world of road transportation. In this context Goldhofer’s STZ-VL double drop semitrailers are a convincing choice in all respects. They are designed for fast and easy front-end loading and, in spite of their low deadweight, will reliably handle very high payloads. An additional pin-on flip axle brings greater flexibility and payload as well as the adaptability to operate across state lines with differences in heavy haul regulations. The Goldhofer »P12 PLUS«The ultimate in flexibility for a wide range of transportation operations – that is the new »P12 PLUS« highway trailer. It offers decisive advantages for successful operations with a modern fleet. The vehicle can be adapted to handle the various loads that go with everyday heavy haul operations and thus ensures optimum fleet capacity utilization. In the 12-axle version, the »P12 PLUS« offers a maximum payload of up to 281,000 lbs (127 t), with a 26,400 lbs (12 t) axle load. It also has the flexibility to be operated in a 9- or 6-axle version. The vehicle’s universal character is underscored by an extensive range of accessories including loading decks and turntables for transporting long and heavy loads using the steerable dolly. “A wide range of jobs with just one vehicle – Goldhofer’s »P12 PLUS« represents our wealth of experience with the successful THP series transferred to the highway transportation market. Thanks to its variability, heavy haul companies can now ensure punctual delivery of diverse special and everyday loads across state lines with just one vehicle,” says Jerry Rothwell, Director of Sales – North America. The latest generation »ADDRIVE« The »ADDRIVE« 2.0 is an intelligent solution that combines the advantages of a towed heavy-duty module with those of a self-propelled module. With its enormous driving force, it can support the tractor up to a speed of 31 mph (50 km/h). The drive unit then disconnects automatically and can be reconnected at lower speeds without stopping. With the »ADDRIVE« 2.0 it is possible to switch from the supporting function for road transportation to off-road operation as a self-propelled vehicle. This means savings in terms of time and costs, and greater efficiency and flexibility for every fleet. “With its various travel modes, it can be towed, used to deliver additional power to the tractor unit on the road and also operated independently as a hydrostatically powered self-propelled transporter,” says Jerry Rothwell and he adds: “In countless combinations worldwide, more than 60 units are providing outstanding service for our customers, enabling transports that would otherwise have been much more complicated at a higher cost to complete..” The FTV 850 blade carrier The FTV 850 is designed for maximum safety and stability for wind turbine transports. Goldhofer has been a pioneer in the field of wind turbine blade carriers since 2013. An incredible success story that continues to this day began with the FTV 300. Today more than 60 units in different versions are in successful operation around the world, helping to make power generation increasingly sustainable. This is thanks to an intelligent design concept that makes light work of difficult routes and minimizes the need to make changes to the roadside infrastructure. As a result, narrow passages in built-up areas, forests and winding roads present no problems to this maneuverable combination. The largest blade carrier to date can be used not only in the basic width of 9.8 ft (3 m) but also in split combinations with a width of up to over 13.1 ft (4 m). Depending on the configuration, the latest generation of wind turbine blades requiring a load moment of up to 1,870,000 lbs (850 mt) can be picked up and transported on a highly flexible basis. The Goldhofer team is looking forward to presenting these vehicles live to customers and interested parties at the CONEXPO-CON/AGG in Las Vegas.... Read more...Doosan Launches New DX85R-7 8 tonne Mini-Excavator10 January 2023ExcavatorsDoosan has launched the new DX85R-7 8 tonne mini-excavator, the latest addition to the company’s next generation range of Stage V mini-excavators. The DX85R-7 reduced tail swing (RTS) excavator is designed to offer maximum performance, optimum stability, increased versatility, enhanced operator comfort, controllability, durability, ease of maintenance and serviceability. The DX85R-7 utilises a newly improved upper structure platform offering increased durability and robustness and a different boom swing cylinder layout resulting in an increased boom swing angle of 60o. Together the RTS design and boom swing angle make the DX85R-7 ideal for work in confined spaces on projects in construction, landscaping, utilities, rental, agriculture, recycling, waste and many other areas. The bucket digging force of the DX85R-7 is 6.7 tonne and this is combined with a traction force of 6.6 tonne, whilst travel speeds are a mobile 2.9 km/h in the low range and 4.8 km/h in the high range. As well as sharing the new global styling common to all the new Doosan mini-excavators from 2 to 10 tonne, the DX85R-7 is powered by the Doosan D24 Stage V compliant diesel engine providing 48.5 kW (65 HP) of power at 2100 RPM. As a result, the DX85R-7 excavator offers excellent fuel efficiency, among the best in its class. It also combines exceptional power output and high torque at low RPM, more than 9% more than the previous DX85R-3 model. A combination of Diesel Oxidation Catalyst and Diesel Particulate Filter aftertreatment methods ensure compliance with Stage V regulations. The DPF offers a 25% increased ash cleaning period of 5000 hours compared to the DX85R-3. New High Comfort Cab With a height to the top of the cab of over 2.6 m and a width of 2.25 m, the new cab on the DX85R-7 is especially roomy and comfortable, providing excellent operator comfort and controllability. The cab has a full glass entry door to maximize operator visibility on this side of the machine from inside the cab. The four standard high luminance LED work lamps on the cab further enhance visibility. Key features of the new cab include: An enhanced heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systemA/C Control Panel Keypad8 inch Touch Screen DisplayPanto Wiper with increased wiping areaDAB AudioSunglasses CaseAir Suspension Seat with HeatingThumbwheel JoystickAuxiliary flow control in the cabUSB Charger & 12V SocketFoldable pedals Protected by a Falling Object Protection Structure, the safety of the operator in the cab is further optimised with a rear view camera as standard and an optional Around View Monitoring 360° (AVM) system offering a choice of five views on the display (Bird view, Rear, Bird view + Right, Rear + Corner and 3D). The enhanced HVAC system is the best on the market, providing more nozzles to direct warming and cooling air, including both front and rear pillar nozzles that together help to improve the system performance. Larger nozzles are also used to ensure direct and sufficient airflow for operators and manual adjustment of the opening/closing of the nozzles is also possible. The HVAC system and the DAB Audio can be controlled through the 8 inch touch screen and the feed from the optional rear view camera can be displayed on the screen. The monitor also shows the flow rate setting, which can be controlled in 10 steps with the thumbwheel joystick due to the newly applied EPPR (Electro-hydraulic Proportional Pressure Reducing) valve for rotating and 2-way functions. New Main Control Valve A new series main control valve (MCV) is utilised in the DX85R-7, that has improved performance by reducing the internal pressure loss, compared to the DX85R-3. The new MCV cuts energy wastage and pressure losses by over 40%, significantly reducing operating costs. The central location of the MCV also enhances its maintainability and helps to optimise the work visibility from the cab. An improved working range has resulted from the new position of the boom foot point, which has been moved forward by 100 mm and upwards by 50 mm. The DX85R-7 also offers improved lifting power and stability through a number of design changes, including the 127 mm increase in the tumbler length (2.952 mm), a redesigned undercarriage with lower ground approaching angle, an expanded rear swing radius and dual flange and double profile roller for both rubber track and steel track type shoes. Dozer improvements on the DX85R-7 have increased the jack up height/digging depth and the lift angle. A newly designed 1.45 tonne cast counterweight also ensures excellent machine balance and stability when working. The DX85R-7 offers full reach maintenance from ground level via a 3-part (Centre/LH/RH) rear bonnet cover, providing easy access and simple maintenance. A well-designed mesh cover has been applied for preventing dirt from coming in. The high efficiency pre-cleaner and two-stage air cleaner filters are easy to maintain and disassemble using clips. DoosanCONNECT Telematics The DX85R-7 mini-excavator has Doosan’s latest DoosanCONNECT system installed as standard, which provides a telematics management system for the excavator, by collecting data from sensors on the machine. For more on Doosan construction equipment, please visit the website: www.eu.doosanequipment.com... Read more...Doosan DX255NLC Excavator Helps Protect Norderney Island5 January 2023ExcavatorsNorderney is one of the most popular islands on the German North Sea coast with tourists. To keep it that way, it is necessary to carry out regular maintenance measures to preserve the island’s stability in the long term. The company, Tell Bau GmbH from Norden, using a new Doosan DX255NLC excavator, has just completed a project to implement one of the measures used to protect the island. Flexible Deployment Options The project, which lasted about four months, was commissioned by the NLWKN (Lower Saxony Water Management, Coastal Defence and Nature Conservation agency). It called for the reinforcement of the revetment in the east of the island. A revetment is a passive structure which protects against erosion caused by wave action, storm surge and currents. The project required the old revetment to be dismantled and a new revetment made of hydraulic rubble stone in full grouting to be constructed. At the same time, the asphalt revetment had to be renewed. The Doosan DX255NLC was used flexibly in various areas. Its tasks included both demolition and earthworks. The Doosan excavator was also used to drive sheet piles into the ground along the full length of the construction section using a Movax SG50V pile driver. In addition, utilising the on-board TopCon 3D system, the excavator produced the dyke shapes required for installation and profiling of the revetment. Dipl. Ing. Andrej Achrameev, Project Manager at Tell Bau, commented: “Due to the diversity of the project, the excavator had to demonstrate a high degree of flexibility in various applications. It fully met this requirement.” Versatile Machine The Doosan DX255NLC has an operating weight of around 25 tonne. It is equipped with the 192 kW six-cylinder DL06 engine from Doosan. With its maximum digging depth of 6.81 m, it can be used extremely flexibly in civil engineering work. The DX255NLC at Tell Bau is fitted with a TopCon 3D control system and can be equipped with a Movax SG50P pile driver and a PowerTilt. Thomas Gembler, Managing Director of Tell Bau, summarises the performance of the new machine: “Of course, we cannot conclusively evaluate the Doosan DX255NLC at this point, but the price-performance ratio is very good and so far the reliability is also impeccable.” The special feature of this NLC (Narrow Long Crawler) excavator is its transport width of 3 m. This allows the excavator to be transported with a permanent excess width exemption in Germany. Reliable Dealer Tell Bau purchased the machine from Doosan dealer, Werner Seemann, which has roots going back to 1966. Werner Seemann now has branches in East Frisia, Bremen and Osnabrück. Since 1999, the two sons of the company founder, Werner and Jens Seemann, have also been active in the company. Continuity and sustainable processes are central components of the company’s philosophy: “Instead of quick profits, we focus on reliability and partnership,” says Werner Seemann Senior. In addition to the construction machinery business, the company also offers services in the areas of vehicle construction and handling technology. Tell Bau GmbH The construction company, Tell Bau GmbH in Norden, has a remarkable history. Started as a small construction company in 1946 in Norden, this group of companies now has around 350 employees. In addition to the headquarters in Norden, Tell Bau GmbH has branches in three other locations: in Berlin, on Norderney and in Sellin on the island of Rügen. The original paving company has been expanded to include road construction, civil engineering, asphalt construction, structural engineering and sports facility construction. In the field of building construction, the company is mainly active in the commercial sector. In addition to residential construction, the company undertakes projects in the fields of structural and civil engineering, sewage treatment plants and large industrial buildings. Research centres, production and administration buildings as well as consumer markets are constructed on a turnkey basis for well-known clients. For four decades, Tell Bau has also been building and supplying synthetic surfaces and artificial turf systems for both ball sports and light athletic use. For more information on Doosan construction machinery, please visit www.eu.doosanequipment.com... Read more...New Bobcat L85 Wheel Loader for Optimal Paper Recycling5 January 2023Wheel LoadersSince the beginning of the 1940s, the Rua family business in Spain has been dedicated to the management and recovery of paper and cardboard, later expanding the activity to plastics, metals, wood and other industrial waste. Today, the family business, Rua Papel Gestión, is a respected company with an active presence in different European and Asian countries, selling products from the company’s three plants in Catalonia in Spain. The company has purchased a new Bobcat L85 compact wheel loader for its Sant Andreu de la Barca paper recycling centre. In this plant, some 38,000 tonne of paper and cardboard from printing presses are processed annually and for this they needed a machine with power and versatility, but at the same time to be compact enough to manoeuvre easiy inside the warehouse and between the rows and columns of stored paper bales. The Bobcat L85 loader is used to handle materials to feed the presses. But thanks to its power, the operators who handle it are already thinking of getting more out of it, equipping it with forks to load bales of paper and they do not rule out putting a grapple on the machine in the future as well. The characteristics of this machine give them great versatility to deal with the various needs of daily activity at the plant, and they see very clearly that the use of attachments will bring them great advantages. The L85 is equipped as standard with the hydraulic Quick-Tach system, compatible with the most used standard couplers in the sector, allowing the use of high flow attachments. The advanced attachment control allows the operator to change the control pattern of the machine with the push of a button. This offers independent control of engine speed and machine travel speed. Thanks to the 7-pin connector, the operator can control even the most complicated attachments intuitively and efficiently. The L85 has a 50.7 kW engine, which allows it to offer a tipping load of 3151 kg, and comes equipped as standard with features that allow the operator to work with great comfort and exceptional productivity. Advantages Over Other Machines Diego Avila, General Manager of Rua Papel Gestión, comments: “Previously we carried out the same work with forklifts, but we saw that when, for example, a truck loaded with 12 tonne of magazines arrived, the power of the L85 loader was much higher and the work was carried out more smoothly. “To replace the forklifts, we first rented a Bobcat S450 compact loader, and its evaluation was so positive that we have not considered changing brands. The Bobcat S450 has given us very good results – we have not had any problems with it, no mechanical failure. “It is a great machine, designed for construction, which is why it is very robust, requires minimal maintenance and we are very satisfied with this model. We have worked very well with it, but we thought that with a larger loader we could improve our work. And this has proved to be the case. Now we push the material with the Bobcat L85 loader directly onto the conveyor belt in no time, much more effectively and more comfortably. “Bobcat Of, the official distributor in the area, let us test the Bobcat L85 loader for ten days and it never left here. Its power, starting forces, thrust, traction, as well as its versatility and the comfort of its cab, are unbeatable. “Regarding its design, for us it is perfect, which prevents us from problems, breakdowns and unnecessary stops. The components, such as the cylinders, are protected so that the machine does not get blocked with scraps of paper, as happened with the forklifts with clamps, which are very visible. In this machine, the only thing that touches the paper is the attachment, meaning we have zero risk of it being damaged or blocked.” Low Consumption and High Safety and Comfort Operators highlight the low fuel consumption of this loader, compared to other machines they use. They evaluate safety very positively, thanks to the weight of the loader, the stability, the size of its wheels and the closed cab that prevents any material reaching them. The forklifts did not provide this protection. But above all they highlight the comfort of the cab, as a fundamental aspect, thanks to its hydraulic seat, excellent 360° visibility to both sides and noise reduction. By working in a closed cab, they avoid the high noise level from the crushers and other equipment that occurs in the facilities throughout the day, which allows them to work in better conditions. The cab is pressurized and meets the strictest FOPS II level safety requirements. They also value its easy handling, the location of all the controls on the joystick is designed to make the L85 easy and comfortable to handle. The joystick position is horizontally adjustable and integrated into the operator’s suspension seat to ensure the best driving experience and comfort. The location of the controls on the joystick is designed to be easy and comfortable to use even for many hours. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com... Read more...Former Construction Equipment Association chief receives MBE5 January 2023NewsRob Oliver, who retired as the Chief Executive of the CEA (Construction Equipment Association) in 2021, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s first New Year’s honours list. The Award of Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) was made in recognition of Oliver’s services to the construction equipment manufacturing sector. He remains active in the industry as an Executive Director of Construction Equipment Events Ltd (CEE) which will be delivering the 5th PLANTWORX show in June (13th/15th), at the East of England Arena & Events Centre (Peterborough). In his time with the CEA, Oliver helped develop and deliver the CESAR Scheme plant marking and registration scheme – and its extension to cover on site Emissions Compliance Verification (ECV). In recognition of his work with the police to combat plant theft, he has also given his name to a special annual award to police forces that have shown a special commitment to anti-theft campaigning. He also put together the organisation for the first PLANTWORX (in 2013) and developed the concept of a construction equipment technology event which became the first FUTUREWORX showcase and conference in March 2022. In response to news of his award, Rob Oliver said, “What a nice surprise to kick off 2023. It has been a privilege to work with both paid officials and volunteers for the CEA on the various projects we undertook over the years – and great credit should go to them. In my career, I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with senior people in a number of industries which has given me a ringside seat to the workings of British and international business. However, I am still looking forward, including offering a great showcase for construction equipment innovation and technology at PLANTWORX 2023”. Oliver’s wife, Joanna, also received recognition for her international trade work with the construction equipment sector. She was awarded an MBE in the late Queen’s birthday honours list in 2011.... Read more...Blue Machinery become distributor for VTN attachments5 January 2023Attachments / PlantWe are delighted to announce that Blue Machinery and Murray Plant (A Blue Scotland Company) have been appointed as exclusive distributors for VTN attachments throughout the UK. The addition of VTN to our product portfolio will complement our existing line up of world leading attachment brands such as, Rammer, Allu, Shearcore, Xcentric and OilQuick. Since 1973, VTN have been producing a wide range of earthmoving, demolition and recycling attachments. A family-owned company that has been operating for nearly 50 years, VTN pride themselves on producing high quality products across a diverse range of solutions. Blue Spares now become an authorised supplier of genuine OEM parts for VTN parts in the UK. They will have parts arriving in the new year, ready to service existing VTN customers from both their Warrington and Stirling depots, which collectively hold an inventory of over £5million. Their dedicated team of parts experts offer customers with 24/7/365 availability to keep their equipment up and running. Managing Director at Blue Central, Aidan McGeary, comments: “We recognise VTN as a world leading manufacturer of machinery attachments, and following a recent visit to their impressive facility close to Venice, are extremely excited to partner up with a company and team that recognise the value in reinvesting in themselves and their business partners. We look forward to building a strong relationship with VTN for many years to come and helping them maintain their strong position throughout the UK marketplace”. Export Manager at VTN, Massimo Ballo, comments: “We are happy to share common values to Blue Group. By collaborating, we can work better, acting with a shared purpose to constantly improve and grow, but also to become better individuals and to work in a better team and company.” Find out more on the range of VTN attachments by contacting your local Blue Machinery/Murray Plant attachment sales representative.... Read more...Successful business deal at Bauma 2022: LEONHARD WEISS orders ten Liebherr railroad excavators7 December 2022Events / ExcavatorsLEONHARD WEISS construction company placed an order for ten Liebherr railroad excavators The Bauma construction machinery and mining trade fair from 24 to 30 October 2022 in Munich provided the ideal setting for this The A 922 Rail Litronic is predestined for versatile applications in track construction LEONHARD WEISS GmbH & Co KG, one of the leading construction companies in Europe, is expanding its machine portfolio and once again relying on Liebherr. The order for ten new A 922 Rail Litronic was concluded at Bauma 2022. The machines are to be used primarily in the areas of track and switch conversion, platform construction and the erection of level crossings, noise barriers and overhead lines. Munich (Germany), 25 October 2022 – Infrastructure projects, especially in the rail sector, play an important role in shaping the future. Both the new construction and the expansion as well as the maintenance of rail infrastructures are the basis for this. With the ten new Liebherr railroad excavators, LEONHARD WEISS construction company will continue to contribute to this in the future. Liebherr and LEONHARD WEISS have a long-standing and trusting relationship. Over the last eight years, the construction company with its two main sites in Göppingen and Satteldorf has taken delivery of around 65 Liebherr A 922 Rail machines, which are now used throughout Germany on a wide range of projects. Now the machine portfolio is being supplemented by ten more railroad excavators. “We are delighted to be adding further powerful and versatile Liebherr excavators to our existing machine fleet. We were able to take advantage of Bauma to conclude the contract directly with Liebherr and the Liebherr sales and service partner Nagel Baumaschinen in Ulm. We really appreciate the personal exchange and the fast, uncomplicated communication channels,” emphasises Ralf Schmidt, shareholderand managing director of the technology department at LEONHARD WEISS. Overall concept of Liebherr machines convinced again: Solid, powerful and adaptable “We are convinced by the overall concept of the Liebherr railroad excavators. The machines have numerous advantages that had a decisive influence on our purchase decision. These include, among other things, the extraordinarily good stability when working with high payloads or the enormous performance of the machines in operation with hydraulic attachments,” emphasises Ralf Schmidt. The construction company is also enthusiastic about the generously designed double cab of the machines. It not only offers a high level of user-friendliness and comfort for the machine operators in their daily work. Thanks to the large glazing in combination with the standard rear and side camera, it also ensures optimum visibility and thus better safety conditions in the working and slewing area. Another decisive purchase criterion was the high machine availability and Liebherr’s excellent service network, especially with regard to the new EU regulation ECM (Entity in Charge of Maintenance). This is a mandatory certification system for the institutions and bodies involved in the maintenance of railway vehicles. Ralf Schmidt notes: “Like LEONHARD WEISS, Liebherr-Hydraulikbagger GmbH and Nagel Baumaschinen Ulm GmbH are officially certified according to ECM and will thus continue to be available to us in the future for competent advice thanks to holistic, ECM-compliant processes.” The Liebherr railroad excavator: Top quality for versatile applications since 1967 Since 1967, Liebherr has been developing and producing railroad excavators to high quality standards, which can be used for both road and rail applications. With an operating weight of between 20,400 and 23,400 kg, the A 922 Rail Litronic is the smaller representative of Liebherr’s railroad excavator portfolio. A rail undercarriage is mounted on both sides of the undercarriage. This brings the tyres to rail level during rerailing, with the inner wheels of the twin tyres taking over the travel drive on the rail. Equipped with the fully hydraulic quick-coupling system LIKUFIX® from Liebherr, which has also been in use at LEONHARD WEISS for many years, the excavator can work with a wide variety of mechanical and hydraulic attachments, which can be changed safely and conveniently directly from the driver’s cab. The machines are thus very adaptable to their respective working environment and a wide variety of work applications.... Read more...CONTRACTOR PURCHASES FIRST JCB 245XR IN NORTHERN IRELAND6 December 2022ExcavatorsA leading contractor has purchased the first JCB 245XR tracked excavator in Northern Ireland. Ballynahinch-based Ryan Rogan Contracts Ltd was so impressed by a demonstration machine that it purchased a brand new 245XR tracked excavator and is delighted with how it is performing. Supplied by dealer Dennison JCB, the JCB 245XR will be used by Ryan Rogan Contract Ltd’s customers on a range of water mains and sewage works projects across Northern Ireland. Ryan Rogan Contracts Ltd Owner Ryan Rogan said: “We were looking about for a new excavator, after previously having had a JCB 140X. We usually use a competitor brand but we’re always happy to take a chance on a different manufacturer for the right machine. We read about the JCB 245XR and thought it was a nice-looking digger. We had a successful demonstration and took the decision to buy. The machine is good value for money and we are impressed with what it can do. “We offer self-drive hire so value for money is important to us when putting a machine out for hire. Our customers do a lot of work with water mains and sewage works so the zero tailswing and flexibility of the machine is very helpful for their type of work. The machine is performing well and doing what our customers need it to do so we’re very happy.” The JCB 245XR tracked excavators are powered by a highly efficient EU Stage V compliant JCB Dieselmax 448 diesel engine, delivering 129kW (173hp). The 4.8-litre engine uses a Selective Catalytic Reduction Filter (SCR-F) that comprises a combined SCR, Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) with a large ash holding capacity. The new machine features full size, one-metre wide cab, which is the largest in the sector. It delivers exceptional stability for maximum lifting capacity while quality hydraulic components deliver smooth, precise operation. Easy access to all service and maintenance points also boost uptime. Founded in 2002, Ryan Rogan Contracts Ltd offers contracting work and plant hire from its base in Ballynahinch. The company specialises in water mains projects with contracts spanning across County Down, County Antrim and County Armagh.... Read more...Weaver Plant going from strength to strength with Kubota6 December 2022PlantWeaver Plant Hire, a start-up business only four years ago, is continuing to go from strength-to-strength in the plant hire market thanks to its investment in the latest machinery and technology solutions, ensuring the high demands of the construction industry can be met. Starting with the purchase of a second-hand Kubota mini-excavator, the Buckinghamshire-based company has now expanded its machinery fleet to 60 machines thanks to the recent purchase of eight Kubota excavators from Boss Plant Sales, meaning the Japanese manufacturer now makes up more than 30 percent of the hire firm’s excavator inventory. The Weaver Plant Hire Kubota excavator fleet now consists of the U50, KX057, KX60 and KX080 machines. The KX and zero-tail swing U excavator series from Kubota are the most reliable and durable machines on the market. The excavator’s utilise Kubota’s latest industry-leading engine technology, designed to offer maximum fuel efficiency, minimal noise and vibration, as well as low emission levels that meet current regulations. Adam Weaver, co-owner of Weaver Plant Hire, said: “The demand for construction equipment that can meet the requirements of the toughest jobs continues to be in high demand, so it’s imperative that we utilise equipment that offers contractors reliability and the highest levels of performance. We have worked tirelessly over the past four years to build a reputation of providing quality and efficient machinery, and the relationship we have with Boss Plant Sales and Kubota, and the service and aftersales support they provide, has been pivotal to that. “Regarding Kubota machinery, the mini-excavators site acceptance is second to none. Operators like the ergonomic cabs, the familiar controls, and the luxuries of the high spec machines we choose. The dash-5 cabs in particular are excellent. We get great support and service from Boss Plant Sales and have found the Kubota machines to be safe, secure, reliable, and economic in operation.” Established in 2018 by Adam Weaver, Weaver Plant Hire provides operated and self-drive plant hire, and groundworks and landscaping contracting to a wide range of customers in London, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, and Buckinghamshire. Adam was quick to adopt the use of specialised attachments and GPS systems across his machinery fleet to ensure high productivity, safety, and a high-quality finish to all jobs. For more information on Kubota’s extensive mini-excavator range, please visit: https://www.kubota-eu.com.... Read more...Ten Liebherr tower cranes are helping to build the largest timber campus in Europe2 December 2022CranesEC-B series proves its flexibility as part of the “Arboretum” development project in FranceLongstanding customer GCC benefits from the latest equipment and comprehensive service thanks to its leasing agreementLiebherr offers intelligent assistance systems and accessories for maximum safety Birds singing, a park with 1,000 planted trees and modern workplaces surrounded by an abundance of wood: this is the vision for “Arboretum”, the largest timber campus in Europe. Ten Liebherr EC-B series tower cranes are involved in the 650 million Euro project in Nanterre near Paris, France. Having as many as ten cranes on a construction site requires precise planning for efficient site operation. The top-slewing cranes, which will remain in operation until mid-2023, have to be coordinated with one another so that they don’t interfere with each other’s lifts. Just how flexible Liebherr’s EC-B series can be is on impressive display in Nanterre, where flat-top cranes with different hook heights, jib lengths and load capacities are required. “We opted for Liebherr cranes because of our longstanding business relationship,” says Antonio Silva de Almeida, the site manager in charge. “Liebherr cranes are ideal for carrying out this project because of their exceptional cost-effectiveness and safety standards.” Liebherr customer GCC has two 220 EC-B 10s, two 250 EC-B 10s, one 250 EC-B 12, two 285 EC-B 12s, two 340 EC-B 12s and one 370 EC-B 12 in operation. The jibs in use are between 47.5 and 60 metres in length. Hook heights range from 41 to 59 metres. As a result of these configurations and their flat-top design, the cranes can rotate above each other without encountering any problems. The transport and assembly-optimised cranes can, depending on the model, lift a maximum of ten or twelve tonnes. A 280 EC-H 12 high-top crane is additionally in use for the construction of the service centre. Anti-collision system and crane operator lift To ensure optimal safety, all cranes are equipped with an anti-collision system from the French manufacturer AMCS technologies. The machines also include LiUP operator lifts, which particularly benefit crane operators and service engineers working at high hook heights, as is the case here. LiUP is designed to transport two people or a load of 200 kilograms. It gives crane operators quick access to their workplace and spares service engineers a strenuous climb during maintenance work. The “Arboretum” project on the banks of the Seine will provide 125,000 square metres of office and service space and will be mostly built of solid wood. The offices are set to be spread over five buildings and each of them will be named after a tree: Almond, Pine, Cedar, Fir and Spruce. A park, a fruit and vegetable garden for the use of campus restaurants, and two renovated industrial buildings will complete the area. The campus will offer ongoing contact with nature so that employees working there can relax and concentrate better. Measures designed to reduce the site’s carbon footprint include the reuse of materials, bioclimatic architecture and a geothermal system that will cover up to 80 percent of heating and cooling requirements. Precise positioning with Micromove The construction of the new office buildings involves 20,000 cubic metres of wood from sustainably managed forests, as well as 55,000 cubic metres of concrete. All loads, some of which weigh several tonnes, have to be moved, and this is where the Liebherr tower cranes come in. “The cranes are reliable and powerful, and the LiUP lift ensures a high level of safety,” says site manager Antonio Silva de Almeida. The top-slewing cranes are being used for positioning timber and concrete elements such as posts, beams, columns, staircases and lifts. This work is supported by the Micromove fine positioning mode. The assistance system makes perfect use of Liebherr’s own high-performance drives so that loads are moved with precision over the course of several minutes and positioned with accuracy. This protects precast filigree concrete parts and existing constructions on site. Comprehensive service for fast response times Most of the cranes are new machines that GCC has secured under a leasing agreement. “Leasing means that customers always benefit from the latest cranes,” explains Sébastien Chalvet, Liebherr Key Account Manager for the Île-de-France region. Liebherr-Grues à Tour is responsible for overall fleet management, “Working this way ensures that cranes are perfectly maintained for maximum availability, and that we can guarantee our customers the highest possible safety standards.” The dense, worldwide service network of Tower Crane Customer Service enables the best possible service at our customers’ sites. Spare parts are quickly available thanks to decentralised logistics. Liebherr, for example, has an extensive spare parts warehouse in Fontenay-Trésigny, south-east of Paris. LiDAT, the data transfer and positioning system designed for Liebherr machines, helps to ensure a high-quality service.... Read more...Plantworx and Primary Engineer team up to inspire Engineers of the Future30 November 2022UncategorisedThe biennial Plantworx Construction Equipment Exhibition and the CEA have once again teamed up with the educational organisation, Primary Engineer, to work with primary schools in the Peterborough area, on a new and exciting STEM construction project. Plantworx and the CEA first began working with Primary Engineer in 2015 and have since funded hundreds of potential young engineers from local schools – inspiring our future engineers. However, this will be the first year that a ‘Construction Project’ has been introduced where the children will be tasked, using STEM skills, to create a dumper truck or a tower crane, which is very exciting – particularly in a Plantworx year! The presentation and judging of the school projects will be held at Plantworx on Thursday 15th June 2023 as part of the ‘Student Day’. Andrew Norris, Head of Partnerships, Central and East England, Primary Engineer said, “It is wonderful to once again be working with Plantworx and the CEA to provide opportunities to demonstrate the power of engineering to children in the Peterborough area. Primary Engineer will train the teachers and bring engineering professionals into the classrooms to demonstrate that engineering is a career for everyone. It is also fantastic that the pupils participating will be able to visit Plantworx, be wowed by the equipment on show, and hopefully go back to their studies with a clear goal of making a difference in the world through engineering.” Engineering Skills There is a well-documented drive to increase the number of young people engaging with STEM as a precursor to careers in the sector. Within this ambition is the awareness that the number of females attracted to engineering and science is not increasing sufficiently to make an impact on the gender balance in the sector. The Primary Engineer Construction project provides both KS1/P2-3 and KS2/P4-7 teachers and pupils with creative, practical projects using construction engineering as the vehicle. The training comprises two teachers per school and an invited engineer. Teachers make models on the course to use in the classroom. They are given an understanding of the curriculum links and access to the Primary Engineer Virtual Learning Environment where teaching resources can be found. Working in teams, the students will build their projects, which will form part of the school curriculum. The best teams will then present their designs at Plantworx on Thursday 15th of June as part of ‘Student Day’ where they will be judged by a team of engineers. Primary Engineer and The Universe of Engineering The demand for engineers way surpasses the numbers coming through the current routes to apprenticeships and university programmes. Perceptions of engineering stereotypes are ripe for change and this will initiate in primary school classrooms. Primary Engineer has been working with teachers to address the fundamental issue of a lack of engineers and the wider perception of engineering since 2005. Its programmes and activities have a national footprint engaging over 65,000 pupils in the academic year 2021-22. The research demonstrates that primary teachers find STEM subjects more difficult to teach, and this lack of skills increases the disengagement of pupils with these subjects from a very early age. Primary Engineer has addressed this issue by providing teachers with practical skills and academic knowledge to subtly apply and embed the theoretical into the practical, effectively ‘STEM by Stealth’. The impact on the teaching professionals and their pupils has been reported anecdotally in numerous schools, Ofsted reports and evaluations from Engineering UK’s Tomorrow’s Engineers programme, which funded some of Primary Engineers’ engagement with schools, have also demonstrated a significant impact on learning outcomes and experiences. Since 2005 Primary Engineer has responded to the demand led by teachers and local companies expanding the programme from the first Primary Engineer training days delivered to primary teachers to a comprehensive suite of training and whole class activities. Plantworx and CEA are looking for sponsorship support from Plantworx Exhibitors and CEA member companies – £800 is the cost to become a sponsor of the 2023 Primary Engineer event – this fee covers funding for teacher training, providing the materials and the project delivery. All companies involved will receive widespread publicity which will surround this event and be invited to the ‘Celebration Event’ which will be held on Thursday 15th June 2023 at the Plantworx Exhibition, East of England Arena and Events Centre, Peterborough.... Read more...Construction Sector Finalises the Establishment of the Plant Sector Representative Organisation29 November 2022Construction / PlantA number of construction-based federations have now fully established a plant-focussed Sector Representative Organisation (SRO) known as the Plant Sector Representative Organisation (PSRO). The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) identified the need for employer-focussed SROs to work with Standard Setting Bodies (SSBs), such as CITB in agreeing suitable qualifications and any additional sector requirements for use with any CSCS-logoed card schemes. The need for a plant-based SRO was identified because both of a collective concern over the then sale by CITB of the leading plant card scheme, CPCS, and an increasing proliferation of plant-based card schemes being offered to the construction sector. This need was identified through a number of roadshows led by the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) on card schemes during 2018 and 2019. Employers said they felt it was not clear what the various card schemes were offering, with each having different levels of standards and delivery methods. Employers also said they felt that there should be national minimum technical and delivery standards set by an industry-led body for all card schemes to abide by. CPA shared the feedback with other associations and federations who have direct involvement in construction plant operations and in early 2020, formed the now named Plant Sector Representative Organisation (PSRO). A Board was established, consisting of representatives from the partner bodies – Build UK, Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA), Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA), Federation of Piling Specialists (FPS), Home Builders Federation (HBF), National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC) and the Scottish Plant Owners Association (SPOA). The pandemic initially delayed progress but formation work resumed in mid-2021, resulting in the PSRO now being fully established as a Private Limited Company, ensuring its impartiality. The principal aim of the PSRO is to represent the users and owners of construction plant and advise both industry and any relevant authoritative bodies, including the CLC, on the standards required for the training, assessment and certification of plant-based occupations. These occupations include operators, maintenance, installation, inspection, hire, delivery and direct-supporting roles. Two sub-groups have also been established. These report to the Board and include a Technical Review Group and a Certificating Bodies Group. The Technical Review Group consists of representatives from each of the partner bodies and its role is to advise the Board on skills, training and card scheme certification processes. Representatives on the group need to have both good knowledge of plant card schemes and qualifications, as well as being actively involved within plant operations. The group also has representation from both the unions and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The Certificating Bodies Group was formed to provide the card schemes and awarding organisations with a voice to the PSRO Board to ensure collaborative working in order to provide the right level and type of services to industry. One of the first and most important tasks of the Technical Review Group was the development of a competency framework. This sets out the principles that benchmark competency, including the components that define the requirements for skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours. It is divided into four sections and defines what the principles are for competency and certification by clarifying each learning journey stage, and what the compliance requirements are at those stages for both employers and certificating bodies. The framework further details the compliance requirements for certification bodies, ensuring clarity, transparency and consistency for card schemes that wish to attain CSCS Partner Card Scheme recognition and bear the CSCS logo. The framework itself does not provide the technical competencies for specific occupations or equipment types, but acts as the signpost to what technical standards and processes certificating bodies need to map their training and assessment programmes. It is a requirement of the CLC that any new card scheme wishing to bear the CSCS logo must first demonstrate that they have the support of industry, which for plant schemes needs to be sought from the PSRO. Support however will only be provided once a scheme’s standards have been benchmarked against the competency framework. When they have gained the support of the PSRO can they proceed with an application to CSCS. An additional CLC card scheme criteria is that the SSB and the SRO agree the minimum card scheme qualifications and alternatives. CITB and the PSRO have now agreed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which sets out how the two organisations will work together on the implementation of any relevant requirements of the card scheme criteria. This includes the PSRO in providing assistance with the development of the CITB short-duration plant training standards for plant operators. This is the first such agreement that CITB has drawn up with any SRO. Following the formation of the limited company, the next stage was the launch of a dedicated website at www.psro.org.uk. This site acts as the public face and providing detailed information on the aims, objectives and current projects of the PSRO. There is also a dedicated page on the Certificating Bodies Group and provides each of them with an opportunity to showcase their scheme’s products, along with a downloads page where the PSRO competency framework, Board meeting notes, etc. can be viewed and downloaded. The PSRO is further organising a webinar in early 2023 to discuss the work of the PSRO and provide further clarity to employers on competency requirements, carding and certification schemes. Kevin Minton, Chair of the PSRO Board said: “Feedback from the sector indicated that respect for card schemes is relatively low in terms of assessment and quality assurance and that the variations amongst the card schemes is causing confusion with employers, who have limited time available to understand them. “On behalf of the PSRO Board Members, we’re pleased that the construction sector federations have come together to form the PSRO and are starting to provide overarching solutions to these employer concerns. We also acknowledge the co-operation of CITB and of all the card schemes who have joined the Certificating Bodies Group. “We’re collectively working together to provide long-term solutions and assurance to the sector and meeting the aim of the PSRO in ensuring the supply of operatives for the plant occupations that possess a level of competence achieved in an efficient and sustainable way,” Kevin continued.... Read more...Keep on Trucking…29 November 2022UncategorisedFerne Jones is 31-year-old women who loves her horses and dogs almost as much as she does her new role at Total Rail Solutions. Ferne joined TRS recently as a Class 1 HGV driver, after 10 years trucking the highways and byways of the UK, and as it turns out, most of New Zealand. TRS hire out plant and operated plant to the rail industry, Road Rail Vehicles (RRVs) provide adapted excavators that work from rail tracks on various rail infrastructure projects. Rather surprisingly, less than 2% of all HGV drivers in the UK are women, from a total driver workforce of some 260,000. With this number falling from the previous year by 53,000, and down from the peak of 321,000 during the summer of 2017. With the number of women in rail standing at 16%, Total Rail Solutions is delighted to welcome Ferne to the business and rail industry. Ferne began her HGV career over 10 years ago, when, as a keen horse owner, she realised how much easier it would be if she could drive her own truck. This led to an opportunity, via the job centre, to an NVQ class 2 qualification, which in turn led to level 4 and ultimately a class1 licence. All gained at college over a period of 6-months on a government sponsored scheme. In fact, Ferne is quick to point out she would not be the driver she is today, had it not been for that job seeker scheme that got her in the cab and on the road. On leaving college Ferne began work as a driver and has never looked back. The diversity of role and opportunity begins on a humble road sweeper, through to class 2 lorry work for local plant hire companies such as Crynant Plant, where every vehicle in the fleet was driven at some stage. From skip lorries to beaver tails, where Ferne had her first experience of loading and carrying plant, before progressing to articulated wagons where steel was the payload. The next move all happened quickly and some 12,000 miles away in New Zealand. The government was, in 2014, recruiting, as a recent earthquake meant they were rebuilding and looking for HGV drivers. Within 1 week of enquiring, Ferne was on a plane heading down under, with a 2-year visa in hand and an amazing adventure ahead. On her return to the UK Ferne went self-employed, working for a number of agencies and hirers. It was then a chance encounter with two TRS HGV drivers, who were so encouraged by what they saw that they set up an interview, leading to Ferne joining the business. With 6-months service completed Ferne is loving life at TRS and to use Ferne’s words…”all the boys are helpful, respectful and look after me”. This however has not always been the case, as Ferne has witnessed misogyny and sexism during her time as an HGV driver. Whilst Ferne is keen to point out that so much has improved and that there is more of a positive attitude, this alas has not always been the case, with stereotypical comments about women drivers and attitude common place. This meant for Ferne that she felt she had to work three times as hard to prove she was as good, if not better…a situation that naturally led to anxiety and frustration. Ferne genuinely believes that nowadays she is not given any special compensation and is treated as one of the team. It does however make Ferne ‘smile’ when even now, she will take a call from a customer, who has delivery instructions, with the caller asking her to tell the driver that when he comes, he must do this or that… Attitudes, it is fair to say, do change when Ferne pulls up on site (having followed the instructions). The biggest change Ferne has seen in the last 10 years Here Ferne is unequivocal, it is about being accepted as a female HGV driver and treated no differently. In addition, Ferne points to the legislative change to digital tachographs being the biggest change in both the cab and behaviour, a move that Ferne warmly welcomed. With the ever-increasing cost of fuel driving down margins, the way Ferne drives has also been blended with the support of Eco mode technology, cruise control and a change to more fuel conscious driving and idling. With the data provided to support drivers to become more fuel efficient. What still needs to change Facilities, facilities, facilities is the answer from Ferne. Whilst there are a growing number of facility improvements at truck stops, such as female showers, progress is slow. For many years the only option to shower at truck stop was to use the men’s showers. So, we are seeing improvement but there is still a long way to go. Life on the road Ferne, in her current role is away from home (and her 5 horses and dog) for 4 nights. Sleeping in her cab is the nightly routine, she is comfortable, after growing into the role over 10 years, with her own company and recognises this as part of the role and lifestyle. With a microwave, fridge and TV for company and the security of the very latest Scania tractor unit (Ferne’s favourite as it turns out) the feeling is one of relative comfort and assured security. Whilst the latest Scania truck units are automatic with built in innovation to make the life of a driver safer, and dare we say simpler, Ferne (given the choice) prefers a manual gearbox, having been brought up on traditional rigs. What would Ferne say to women thinking about taking an HGV licence Ferne said, “I would encourage women, life on the road is never the same, you meet some real characters and see some amazing sights…but it’s not for all, it’s hard work and sometimes long hours”. Ferne typically works 4 days on and 4 days off. Which delivers a really good work life balance, as it allows time spent schooling Ferne’s young foals and, in the summer, competing in various competitions. What’s the best part of the job Getting paid to do the thing you love and travelling around the UK to see all the great places the country has to offer. Best UK Truck Stop This would have to be The Stockyard just off the M18 in Rotherham, with the Formula 1 services heading up towards Scotland close behind, with Café V8 getting an honourable mention in Inverness. With Ferne adding The Chippenham Pit Stop to the list, as it provides improved female facilities, and I am reliably informed hair dryers. It was interesting speaking to Ferne and whilst so much has improved, and more and more companies are doing so much more to create the right environment, there is still more in the mind of some male drivers perhaps that need to change. Hearing Ferne comment that even today, whilst looking after the rig she is driving, there is still a little of ‘having to work harder than the men’ attitude, in that she always pays extra attention to the maintenance of both the interior and exterior of the cab to be accepted by her male counterparts. As for the future, this is what Ferne loves doing, it has become a way of life, a life that will continue into and very probably beyond the foreseeable future. We trust more will join her and recognise the world of rail is diverse, safe and a sustainable place where careers can prosper, and lives can be built.... Read more...Xwatch on a training mission to ABTECH in Quebec28 November 2022SafetyXwatch Safety Solutions recently announced a distribution partnership with ABTECH in Québec. This week Xwatch’s Dan Leaney and Fergus Fieldhouse visited the ABTECH headquarters in a very chilly Québec to install and conduct training on the very first XW5 Xwatch safety system to arrive in the Eastern province of Canada. Dan and Fergus were made to feel very welcome at the ABTECH headquarters and even got to enjoy the Quebecian local delicacy, Poutine, which is a dish comprising French fries and cheese curds topped with brown gravy! The Xwatch team installed an XW5 system on a PC200LC 20-tonne Komatsu. The XW5 offers a ‘total safe working envelope’ around the machine and the operator, and enables the control of the machine’s height, slew and rated capacity indication. This machine is heading directly to the Centre national de conduite d’engins de chantier , which is the largest construction training school in Quebec. The Centre national de conduite d’engins de chantier is the leader in Quebec in the development of construction equipment operators. Around 1500 workers come to train each year in one of its three training sites: Lévis, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu and Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel, and also within companies. The construction machinery operation course boasts more than 150 machines for training, which are a mixture of dozers, backhoe loaders, wheel loaders, graders and excavators. Xwatch will be providing more systems for the training school, which will be installed by ABTECH engineers. ABTECH will also be rolling out Xwatch across the region to its customers – revolutionising safety in Canada. ABTECH understands the reality of a modern construction site which prompted the collaboration with Xwatch. ABTECH distributes technological solutions in the construction industry across Eastern Canada and is also a distributor of Leica Geosystems. The company offers a range of reliable construction and surveying instruments designed to help its customers gain accuracy and efficiency during construction projects. Dan Leaney Sales and Operations Director, Xwatch Safety Solutions commented on the partnership – he said “We were delighted to announce our partnership with ABTECH in providing key safety solutions, across Eastern Canada, the Leica connection sealed our alliance. We were also honoured to install the very first system and provide training. This machine is heading to the largest training school in Quebec and will be used to train the next generation of operators in Canada on the importance of safety – and knowing it’s the Xwatch system- makes us proud to be part of Global safety for machines and operators.” Dan added, “Operators are at the coalface of every jobsite and their safety is our priority. Technology delivers productivity and a crucial part of productivity is to keep the operator and co-workers safe in the field. We are looking forward to revolutionising the safety market in Canada and working with our eastern Canadian partners and the new generation of operators.” A partnership built to last Philippe Girard, Construction Vice President at ABTECH, said the Xwatch partnership is ‘A perfect match’, he said “Every year, the construction industry suffers losses of colleagues and friends on construction sites – therefore managing the people plant interface is of vital importance. With the Xwatch Safety Solutions suite of safety systems and with the integration of Xwatch Leica Geosystems products, we are confident that the number of fatalities caused by heavy machinery activities will see a significant reduction.” ... Read more...SMALLEST COMPACT LOADALL JOINS JCB LINE-UP WITH LARGEST CAB25 November 2022MachineJCB is introducing the 514-40, its smallest Loadall telescopic handler to date, with a cab height of just 1.8m and a width of 1.56m. However, the compact machine benefits from the largest operator’s cab in the class, sharing its core DNA with the world’s number one telehandler range. Low maintenance 19kW diesel engine requires no DPF or DEF to meet Stage V 82% shared JCB componentry ensures quality, ease of maintenance and maximum uptimeFull width cab is up to 200mm wider than competitors, delivering more operator spaceBest-in-class lift capacity at full height is 12% higher than competitors17% increase in power-to-weight ratio over the previous generation 516-40Increased manoeuvrability for the tightest working sites Compact Dimensions JCB’s new 514-40 Loadall telescopic handler brings together more than 45 years of telehandler development to create the smallest overall package, with big machine comfort and capabilities. At just 1.8m tall and with a width of 1.56m, the 514-40 has been designed to access the most confined sites. Small enough to fit through a 2m high doorway, the machine delivers unparalleled manoeuvrability, with all-wheel steering, making it an ideal telehandler for materials suppliers, landscapers, event organisers and construction rental businesses. The telehandler is powered by a low maintenance 18.4 kW (24.7hp) diesel engine that meets the EU Stage V emissions standard without the need for a complex Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) or any diesel exhaust fluid, reducing operating costs for customers and simplifying operation. This three-cylinder, 1.1-litre engine, which boasts 66.9Nm of torque, drives through a proven Bosch hydrostatic transmission to a two-speed Linde motor, delivering a maximum travel speed of 15km/h. With permanent four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering, the 514-40 offers the all-terrain capabilities synonymous with JCB’s market-leading Loadall range. The maximum lift capacity is 1,400kg, while maximum lift height is set at 4.0m, making this an ideal machine for numerous industry sectors. Lift capacity at full reach is set at 525kg. With an unladen weight of 2,695kg, the machine boasts a 17% higher power-to-weight ratio than the previous 516-40 Loadall. However, the 514-40 can be transported on a lightweight 3.5-tonne trailer behind a 4×4 or a light commercial vehicle, making it easier, quicker and less expensive to deliver to site for a rental company, a contractor or a weekend DIYer. The full width operator’s cab is 20% larger than the previous 516-40 and a full 200mm wider than competitive models. This provides the operator with a comfortable working environment and the extensive glazing delivers excellent visibility to all four corners. The cab will be instantly familiar to operators of other Loadall models, with JCB’s intuitive ergonomic controls making the 514-40 one of the easiest machines to operate. Standard features include a 50mm tow ball with 7-pin electrics, reversing alarm, road lights, the patented JCB load control system and JCB’s LiveLink Lite telematic system. Options include an LED work light package, amber and green beacons with an orange seat belt, which can all be protected by JCB’s immobiliser Key Pad. The 514-40 boasts a new lightweight tool carrier and is capable of working with floating forks or a 0.41m3 bucket. Double-acting auxiliary hydraulics make it possible to operate with a range of JCB attachments, increasing the versatility of this compact machine. Customers can also choose between a range of industrial and turf-compatible tyres.... Read more...Doosan Launches New DX20Z-7 Two Tonne Mini-Excavator24 November 2022ExcavatorsDoosan has extended the company’s new generation mini-excavator family with the launch of the two tonne class DX20Z-7 model. Providing a unique combination of high performance and compactness, the new DX20Z-7 is an ideal solution for confined space and indoor job sites, offering a zero tail swing design and a detachable canopy for low height entrance. The DX20Z-7 ensures increased productivity, excellent operator comfort in an easily accessed operator station and maximum durability and serviceability. Increased Productivity The optimised hydraulic system in the DX20Z-7 mini-excavator makes the best possible use of the engine power available from the Yanmar 3TNV70 3-cylinder Stage V diesel engine providing an output of 10.3 kW (13.8 HP) at 2200 RPM. This results in fast cycle times combined with smooth control of breakout forces, which include a digging force over the bucket (ISO) of 1.55 tonne. In its standard configuration, the DX20Z-7 has an operating weight of 1995 kg. With the optional 1.1 m long arm, the maximum digging depth of the DX20Z-7 is 2345 mm, the maximum dump height is 2750 mm and the maximum reach at ground level is 3975 mm. This working range provides maximum performance and versatility in operating a wide range of attachments. The high lifting capacity and superior dumping height offered by the DX20Z-7 ensure that loading trucks is an easy process, while the reach at ground level reduces the need to keep repositioning when digging. When at its fully retracted width of 950 mm, the retractable undercarriage on the DX20Z-7 allows the machine to go through narrow spaces. When fully expanded to a width of 1360 mm, it provides optimum stability for the excavator, especially when working over the side. Expansion and retraction are simple and easy via a switch on the control panel. High Comfort Working Experience The DX20Z-7 is built around the operator and provides optimal ergonomics. There is ample space for the feet with a flat floor for easy cleaning, ergonomic pedals and easy access to all controls. Visibility to the front is optimized by the high luminescent LED lamp on the boom. The use of highly durable materials ensures that the Doosan DX20Z-7 model offers hard-wearing and robust performance. All components and design features are tested under extreme conditions and the heavy steel gauge tailgate ensures extra durability and peace of mind while working. The cylinder guards and battery cover provide extra protection. The tailgate can be quickly opened to provide immediate access to conveniently located components such as easily cleaned coolers and other daily maintenance and service points, reducing downtime to a minimum. For more on Doosan construction equipment, please visit the website: www.eu.doosanequipment.com... Read more...UK construction equipment sales showed strong growth in October24 November 2022Construction / EquipmentRetail sales of construction and earthmoving equipment in October were 11% above sales in the same month last year. As a result, sales in the first ten months of the year have almost caught up with last year’s levels, reaching 31,400 units, only 0.7% below last year during the same time period. A notable feature in October was the strength of sales for the two most popular equipment types, mini/midi and crawler excavators. Both recorded higher levels of sales compared with last year, having fallen short in earlier months. Mini/midi excavator sales were 9% ahead of October last year and crawler excavators were higher by 19%. This suggests that some of the supply chain issues associated with these products are beginning to ease. The pattern of sales for the major equipment types in the first ten months of the year to October is shown in the chart below compared with the same period last year. This shows percentage changes in sales year on year, ranked from the highest to the lowest, and continues to show a mixed pattern for the different machine types. Telehandlers (for the construction industry), continue to show very strong demand and are 20% up on 2021 levels. Sales of Road Rollers remain the weakest, at 8% down on last year’s levels. Sales of Mini/Midi excavators and Crawler excavators have improved, as highlighted above, and are now only between 2% and 6% below last year’s levels in the first ten months of the year. The pattern of sales on a regional basis in the UK and N Ireland is shown in the map below for sales from January to October, compared with the same period in 2021. This continues to show a mixed pattern across the regions. The strongest sales region so far this year remains as the West Midlands, at over 14% up on last year’s levels. In contrast, three regions are still seeing sales below last year’s levels in London (-12.5%), the South East of England (-8%) and the North West (-8.4%). Equipment sales in the Republic of Ireland are also reported in the statistics exchange. Sales in October were very weak at 25% below last year’s levels. This leaves sales in the first ten months of the year at just under 10% below last year’s levels. * The construction equipment statistics exchange is run by Systematics International Ltd. This scheme is run in partnership with the Construction Equipment Association (CEA), the UK trade association.... Read more...H&C PLANT HIRE INVESTS IN FLEET OF 20 JCB BACKHOE LOADERS24 November 2022Backhoe LoadersA leading North-West plant hirer has invested in 20 powerful new JCB 3CX PRO backhoe loaders – hailing the latest model as ‘the best backhoe loader available’. Manchester-based H&C Plant Hire operates siteMASTERS Nationwide Hire which is dedicated to providing JCB 3CX Sitemaster backhoe loaders for rental across the UK. This new delivery of JCB 3CX Pro models has completely replaced earlier machines in a total fleet refresh. Central to the decision to purchase the new machines is their ability to road to and from jobs without the need for additional transport. H&C Plant Hire’s Director, Lee Barlow, said: “We buy JCB 3CX backhoe loaders because they are the best backhoe loaders available. It’s as simple as that. They’re powerful, versatile and perfect for the jobs we need them for. “As a hire company we like that you can drive to the job and back and you don’t have to pay for haulage. The machines are used on local authority projects, and they can do anything. Our operators are very happy and find the new 3CX PRO machines more powerful than ever.” Supplied by dealer Gunn JCB, the new models – which include standard and Advance Easy Control machines – will be put to work with local authorities and long-term hire contracts throughout the North-West. The top of the range 3CX PRO features ECOROAD, JCB’s new 6-speed Autoshift transmission which reduces travel times between sites by up to 25% and saves up to 15% fuel. H&C Plant Hire has been supplying operated plant & equipment throughout the North-West of England for over 3 decades. Alongside siteMASTER Nationwide Hire, it is part of the Westgate Group and operates from two locations; Bredbury near Stockport and Levenshulme, Manchester – both with fully equipped workshops and the bases for its mobile plant engineers.... Read more...Hall Bros. Forms Project A-Team with Expanding Bobcat Fleet23 November 2022Excavators– One of the UK’s first Bobcat E88 excavators is now part of the fleet – Hall Bros. Ltd., based in Benfleet in Essex in the UK, is much more than a successful groundworks construction company. The business specialises in all areas of general contract construction within the private and public sectors. No job (or client) is too big or too small for Hall Bros. and the company completes most of this varied work with an expanding fleet of different types of Bobcat equipment. The latest Bobcat products have been supplied by Versatile Equipment Ltd, based in Borough Green in Kent, the Authorised Bobcat Dealer for Greater London and South East England. In order of their arrival at the company, the Bobcat equipment in the fleet now includes: A T650 compact track loader with a 1 m self-levelling planer/sweeper collector/4-in-1 combination bucket/pallet forksAn E17z mini-excavator with height and slew restriction safety systems and a Bobcat breakerA Bobcat ATR26 tandem roller fitted with an additional joystickOne of the first E88 mini-excavators in the UK, again equipped with height and slew restriction safety systems Martin Hall, Financial & Operational Director at Hall Bros., said: “Our first Bobcat product was an S570 skid-steer loader, combined with a water kit and a Bobcat 450 mm planer attachment. Though we no longer have the S570, we still use the 450 mm planer for work in narrow or tight spaces. “We have worked closely with Phil Stoneham at Versatile Equipment to make sure we have the correct Bobcat products in the fleet. In this way, we know that we can load up and transport all the Bobcat machines to site to meet the full needs of almost every project we undertake. This is especially important in our work for Network Rail and Greater Anglia where we tend to work at night under tight time constraints, so we need dependable, appropriate equipment to get the jobs done quickly and the Bobcat products help us always ensure high quality results.” New Bobcat E88 Mini-Excavator Though it is used for a wide variety of applications, the new E88 mini-excavator was purchased for a specific application in the rail industry – to lift and position concrete beams on level crossing jobs. This new eight tonne machine delivers outstanding performance, combined with compact dimensions, superb operator comfort and excellent stability with high digging output. The E88 provides the operator with the full experience expected of a Bobcat R2-Series excavator, adding new features and options such as an optional fourth AUX4 auxiliary tilt coupler line, a fifth AUX5 hydraulic coupler line as standard and a longer undercarriage. Bobcat´s acknowledged productivity is coupled with smooth controllability thanks to low effort joysticks and intuitive 5- or 7-Inch displays, class-leading visibility and exceptional transportability for its weight class. New Tandem Roller The ATR26 tandem roller is another new product in the Bobcat range and is part of the company’s expansion into the light compaction market. Tandem rollers like the 2.6 tonne ATR26 model are used for compacting sub-base, asphalt or other ground materials. They are mostly present in small to medium commercial development sites and road construction sites. To offer increased flexibility for the Hall Bros. crews, Versatile Equipment has added a second, optional joystick on the roller, allowing operators to work on both sides of the roller and in both directions, when close to obstacles and the edge of roads and pavements. Martin Hall added: “With the addition of the new E88 mini-excavator and the ATR26 roller, we have an expanded group of Bobcat machines from which we can choose to carry out virtually any task. With the loader and the excavators, the flexibility they offer by being combined with a selection of Bobcat attachments such as the planers and the sweeper is immense. It is a fact that what you put on the front of the machine is often the most important element, especially in our work. So we are always looking to add new attachments that will help us on projects.” Approaching 20 Years in Business Martin Hall formed Hall Bros. in 2004 together with his brother, Steven Hall, who is Managing Director. Today the company has 30 staff, working across the board, from excavation and maintenance work to coping stone installation and controlled deconstruction. Hall Bros. is a registered supplier under the RISQS Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme and is currently preparing for ISO accreditation. Steven Hall and Martin Hall oversee the successful completion of all the company’s contracts and monitor all financial information. Working closely with the team at the company to ensure high standards for quality are met, Steven and Keith McKean ~ Contract Manager are regularly on site providing expert insight and advice to guarantee expected levels of excellence never falter. A former Corporal in the Royal Green Jackets regiment of the British Army, Steven Hall has been involved in the construction industry in one form or another since he was a teenager. After leaving the army in 1981, Steven developed his expertise in construction, demolition and asbestos removal before establishing Hall Bros. with Martin. As Managing Director, Steven oversees the running of the company, provides staff with the resources to carry out their work safely and to the highest standards, and develops the culture of the company. Both Steven and Martin will always go above and beyond to complete a project on time and on budget, getting personally involved whenever necessary. Martin Hall added: “We value our clients and suppliers; our company is grateful for every work opportunity and any company we collaborate with. Clients are particular important to us, and we have been fortunate in being able to work closely with both Network Rail and Greater Anglia on many projects.” For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com... Read more...Doosan ADT Wins 2022 Highest Retained Value Award22 November 2022NewsThe Doosan DA30 Articulated Dump Truck (ADT) has won the EquipmentWatch 2022 Highest Retained Value (HRV) Award for Rear Dump Trucks. This is one of 30 award categories covering construction, lift/access and agricultural equipment, all powered by EquipmentWatch’s industry-leading database and more than nine million market observations. The awards are a culmination of more than 100 analyst hours reviewing and ranking more than 27,000 equipment models. According to EquipmentWatch, the data-driven awards recognize excellence among construction, lift and agricultural equipment manufacturers. EquipmentWatch uses proprietary algorithms, depreciation schedules and other data, and their analysts predict which equipment will give customers a greater return on investment five years into the future. EquipmentWatch produces the leading database information products for the construction equipment industry and is the world leader in independent, third-party heavy equipment research, serving more than 15,000 professional, high-volume construction, agricutural andlift/access data users. Beka Nemstsveridze, ADT Product Manager at Doosan, said: “Our Doosan ADTs are known for their performance, durability and reliability. We are delighted to win this Highest Retained Value award from EquipmentWatch, which confirms for our dealers and customers that they are making the right choice with Doosan.” Best-in-Class Rough and Soft Terrain Performance The latest generation ADTs from Doosan are the DA30-7 and DA45-7 Stage V compliant models. The DA30-7 and DA45-7 have payloads of 28 and 41 tonne, respectively. The DA30-7 is powered by the Scania Stage V compliant DC09 9 litre diesel engine providing 276 kW (375 HP) of power. The DA45-7 is driven by the Scania Stage V DC13 13 litre diesel engine with an output of 368 kW (500 HP). Like all Doosan ADTs, the DA30-7 and DA45-7 models feature an articulation hinge positioned behind the turning ring to provide equal weight distribution to the front axle even during maximum steer articulation. This combined with a free-swinging rear tandem bogie ensures equal distribution of weight to each wheel and guarantees permanent 6-wheel contact and drive for equal power distribution and excellent performance particularly on difficult terrains such as soft ground, uneven surfaces, very steep slopes, tight turns or a combination of all of these difficult conditions. Collectively, the forward turning point, the unique tandem bogie and the sloping rear frame results in ‘best in class’ rough and soft terrain capabilities. The unique body shape and sloping frame ensure equal load distribution on all the wheels making these machines the best haulers for soft terrain work. The design of the articulation also provides equal load distribution on the wheels on both the left and right hand side when turning, which is very important for the traction and stability of the machines. Complementing these standard, market-leading 6×6 ADT models, Doosan has now launched a new 4×4 version of the DA45-7 ADT. Intended to compete with rigid dump trucks (RDTs) in the 40-tonne class, the new 4×4 ADT was one of several world premieres from Doosan at Bauma 2022. In the new 4×4 ADT, the front truck and cab unit is the same as in the 6×6 models, with modifications being made on the rear dumper unit only. Featuring a ZF EP8-420 transmission, the 4×4 DA45-7 is a two-axle ADT with twin wheels at the rear, and with a dumper sectionsimilar to that on RDTs in the 40-tonne class. For more on Doosan construction equipment, please visit the website: www.eu.doosanequipment.com... Read more...The CEA’s response to the Autumn Statement:22 November 2022FinanceThere were no great surprises from Jeremy Hunt’s Autumn Statement today – many of the announcements made relate to years that fall after the next general election so much of the impact will not be felt for years to come – however, the Government’s commitment to invest in infrastructure and energy efficiency is very welcome. The chancellor says the Government will focus on economic growth, despite having to find budget savings. A silver lining for our sector was the announcement that energy, infrastructure, and innovation are high on the Government’s priorities. We welcome the Government’s decision to proceed with a new nuclear power plant at Sizewell C, which will help to provide reliable low-carbon power. This new power plant will create 10,000 skilled jobs, however, there was no mention of the chronic skills shortage we are already facing. The sector is struggling to recruit people – due to competition but also a lack of awareness and perceptions among younger generations. There is significant work to be done on this and the CEA continues to feed back to Government through its position on the National Manufacturing Skills Taskforce. The go-ahead for Sizewell C is on the proviso that the plans receive final government approvals, which we expect to be signed by relevant parties in the coming weeks. Hunt confirmed that as part of the Government’s commitment to growth and infrastructure – they will deliver the core Northern Powerhouse Rail, HS2 to Manchester, East-West rail, the new hospitals’ programme and gigabit-broadband roll-out. These will be funded with over £600bn of investment in the next five years, which Hunt said: “will connect our country and grow our economy.” The CEA welcomes the Chancellor’s continuing commitment to major investment in infrastructure. By 2030, the Government wants to reduce energy consumption from buildings and industry by 15% – and from 2025, there will be a further £6bn in funding to deliver the UK’s new energy efficiency ambition. Let’s just hope that whoever is in power at that time commits to fulfilling this funding. The Energy Price Guarantee (EPG) will be maintained through the winter, limiting typical energy bills to £2,500 per year. Disappointingly, from April 2023 the EPG will rise to £3,000 with prices forecast to remain elevated throughout next year. In addition, there was no further mention of support for business and the CEA calls for the Energy Bills Relief Scheme for non-domestic users to be extended beyond six months. The employers’ national insurance contributions threshold is frozen until April 2028 and the employment allowance will be retained at its new, higher level of £5,000 until March 2026 which is good news for small businesses. A positive announcement was the plan to help make Britain the “new Silicon valley” which will see public funding for R&D increased to £20bn by 2024-25. This is crucial for future growth. However, the challenges manufacturers face in the years ahead remain substantial and opportunities were missed to support manufacturers through this extremely turbulent time. Therefore, it’s up to us as a sector to lobby Government for the support we so greatly need. This includes a coherent and long-term international trade strategy to stimulate economic growth. This is especially important in our sector where an average of 65% of output is exported yet support for trade associations and our members is minimal. CEA Chief Executive Suneeta Johal... Read more...SENNEBOGEN AT BAUMA 2022: STRONG APPEARANCE OF THE INNOVATION PACEMAKER20 November 2022EventsWith its more than 2100 m² stand in the center of the outdoor area, SENNEBOGEN was not only once again the “Green Heart of bauma” in 2022, but also impressively asserted its position as INNOVATION PACEMAKER in the 70th year of the company’s history. “I never believed that a face-to-face encounter could be replaced by a digital experience, and I am immensely pleased that bauma proved just that. With our strong brand presence, we were able to inspire many customers and prospects. Our 12 exhibits were more than impressive, both with the 885 G in size and technologically with many innovations on the topics of user-friendliness, efficiency and zero emissions,” said a delighted CEO Erich Sennebogen. At bauma 2022, which was a record-breaking event for SENNEBOGEN in every respect, the highlights of the exhibition were therefore dominated by the topics of energy efficiency, sustainability, and operator and maintenance friendliness. SENNEBOGEN guarantees worldwide presence with more than 180 international sales partners and with over 300 service points. With a large, international team and a total of 12 machine exhibits from all application areas, SENNEBOGEN also welcomed the large number of bauma trade fair visitors, which exceeded all industry expectations. Large-scale machine highlight: the 320 t port material handler 885 G The largest material handler ever exhibited at a bauma with an operating weight of 320 t, the SENNEBOGEN 885 G, was an absolute visitor magnet this year due to its dimensions alone. With its operating weight of around 320 t and a reach of up to 38 m, the machine can be used primarily in the demanding port segment and shines with around 30% higher load capacities compared to the competition. Equipped with the new Portcab and representing the new generation of machines, the G series, it is also particularly user-friendly and efficient. SENNEBOGEN again attracted many bauma visitors this year with an impressive range of machines and technological innovations. Absolute large-scale machine highlight and visitor magnet: the largest material handler ever exhibited at a bauma with an operating weight of 320 t, SENNEBOGEN 885 G. ZERO EMISSION AND INDIVIDUALLY DESIGNED ENERGY SAVING SOLUTIONS: FROM ELECTRIC TRAVEL DRIVE TO BATTERY TECHNOLOGY SENNEBOGEN has been committed to the topic of energy saving and electrification for more than thirty years – and so in 2022 trade fair visitors were once again able to learn about various innovative solutions for many areas of application. The Green Hybrid energy recovery system is used in the boom movements of large material handlers and has recently been installed in medium-sized machines with operating weights of 47 t and above, such as the 835 G Hybrid. It stores the energy generated when the boom is lowered and releases it again when it is subsequently raised, thus saving up to 30% in fuel. For predominantly traveling machines such as the 735 E pick and carry timber handling machine, the Green Efficiency Drive (GED) electric travel drive, which was also presented, proves to be the ideal solution. In addition to lower emissions, the GED also brings energy savings of up to 30%. This not only significantly reduces operating costs, but the machine is also more dynamic and quieter. Another technological highlight were the two battery-powered machines both in the crane and in the material handling area: the 30-t 825 Electro Battery recycling material handler and the 50-t 653 Electro Battery telescopic crawler crane. Thanks to the Dual Power Management System, which permits both battery-powered and mains-powered operation, these machines can be used with zero emissions without any restrictions. Further advantages are the flexible charging capability at conventional industrial power sockets, the reduced service work and the increased comfort for the employees, who appreciate not only the special sensitivity but also the reduced noise and vibrations of the machines. Finally, the SENtrack telematics software presented at the booth also helps to save costs and energy by allowing operators to keep an eye on all key figures such as utilization and consumption in real time, thus enabling them to manage their fleet optimally. THE NEW G-SERIES MACHINE GENERATION: THE PLUS IN EFFICIENCY AND USER-FRIENDLINESS In addition, a number of machines from the new machine generation, the G-series, were also presented at bauma, including the 4 t telehandler 340 G, the brand new 24 t recycling material handler 824 G, and the port material handlers 835 G and 885 G. The 6th machine generation is characterized first and foremost by increased efficiency, enhanced responsiveness, optimum serviceability and improved operator comfort. The new Maxcab and Portcab were not only on display on the machines, but could also be explored separately as exhibits at the trade show booth or via virtual reality glasses. MACHINE INNOVATIONS FOR ALL INDUSTRIES: FROM DEMOLITION TO SPECIALIZED CIVIL ENGINEERING Other highlights included the multifunctional 48 t demolition machine 830 Demolition, which celebrated its trade show premiere with two new equipment features: a 3-part longfront equipment with 23 m reach and a 10 t counterweight that can be hydraulically unloaded to reduce transport weight. Also on display was the 728 E tree care handler with up to 21 m reach, which was recently launched on the market. This machine is perfectly suited for professional landscape and tree maintenance along traffic routes. A broad portfolio of machines was also exhibited for the construction industry, which primarily impresses with its reliability and state-of-the-art safety and environmental standards. In addition to the 200 t 5500 G crawler crane, two models were on display in the popular 100 tonne performance class: the 6100 E crawler crane with diaphragm wall grab, which is ideally suited for specialized civil engineering, and the 100 t 6103 E telescopic crawler crane, which was recently launched on the market. At bauma, not only the latest technological innovations were celebrated, but also the 70th anniversary of the machine manufacturer. A RECORD BAUMA IN EVERY RESPECT All in all, bauma 2022 was marked by records in every respect for SENNEBOGEN. With 12 machines, there were more exhibits on the booth than ever before, and more dealers and stand personnel were present than ever before to look after customers – who also came in large numbers, as the frequency of contact and the number of requests for quotations were also uniquely high. In addition to the machine highlights, bauma is and always will be simply a great celebration, Erich Sennebogen also confirms: “Almost nowhere do you experience as much emotion as at the trade fair. You create memorable experiences for customers, dealers and employees. These shared experiences that we created over the seven days were very valuable for everyone involved. The high-quality contacts and numerous discussions with customers and business partners, who once again traveled from almost all over the world this year, radiate optimism and are a clear signal of the stability and forward-looking nature of the construction machinery industry.”... Read more...Growing Family of Bobcat Dealers Optimistic about Africa20 November 2022GlobalAfrica as a market is highly important to many global businesses, not only today but in terms of the potential the continent offers in the coming decades. For Bobcat, the world leader in compact equipment, this is more true than ever as African markets continue to recover following the Covid-19 pandemic. Here Bobcat and some of the companies who have recently been appointed as Bobcat dealers give new insight into the current business environment in Africa, how it has recovered from the last two to three years and what the plans are for the future. Nicolas Dumont, District Sales Manager – Africa for Bobcat, comments: “The compact industry is still rather marginal compared to heavy construction equipment in Africa. This is mostly because of the established mentality and the availability of cheap labour. But the potential growth is enormous as Africa will continue to develop. “This is reflected in the past few years, when we have launched new products such as our backhoe loader, new mini-excavators and light compaction equipment and they are perfect add-ons for our existing customer base. We will soon be introducing in Africa a new line of Ground Maintenance Equipment (Zero Turn mowers, Compact Tractors, Small Articulated Loaders). This will open doors to a new customer base in landscaping and agriculture. There is already existing demand for such equipment in hotel resorts and golf courses but again, in a few decades, a landscaping industry will develop on the continent and by introducing these products in Africa now, we want to already position ourselves as leader in this segment.” “Growth is yet to come in many applications, including industry, agriculture, construction, landscaping and road maintenance. Bobcat believes it is strategically important to ensure the company is ready for growth. The first step is to increase Bobcat’s footprint with a network of strong dealers with increased presence across the continent and the second is to maximize our market share now to solidify our position as the market leader in the compact industry. This is why we are being so active in the dealer network – strengthening existing dealers in certain countries and appointing strong new dealers are the fundamentals to achieve our goals.” Three of the newest dealers – Sodim TP in Gabon, Machinery Exchange in Zimbabwe and Albadri Power Co. Ltd in Sudan – have echoed the other dealers in the Bobcat network, expressing increased optimism in their respective markets. Sodim TP in Gabon Appointed at the end of 2020, Sodim TP, with headquarters in Libreville, is a major player in construction equipment, trucks and in the automotive sector in Gabon. Julien Canh, Directeur General at Sodim TP, commented: “Our main clients operate in the mining sector (manganese mines in the east of the country) and the forestry sector. After two years of recession, these two sectors are growing strongly in 2022 and Sodim TP is taking advantage of this upturn. Nevertheless, this growth remains fragile and uncertain due to the global geopolitical context, the war in Ukraine and the health context linked to the still very present Covid crisis, as we have seen recently with massive confinements in China. “The most popular Bobcat product in Gabon is the market-leading S450 skid-steer loader. The S450 had been a product that was not yet well developed in Gabon and Bobcat has come to market with a very successful product that has already proved itself worldwide. The main reasons for its success in Gabon are first its dimensions allowing it to work where conventional loaders cannot reach. This also allows it to be easily transported from one site to another. Another feature is the wide range of attachments that make it a very versatile product especially for the economic actors of the construction industry who can use a single S450 machine for several applications.” Julien Canh continued: “Being part of the Bobcat dealer network completes the range of products offered by Sodim TP. Sodim TP, in its DNA, must be able to provide its customers with all types of machines they need to work. Thanks to Bobcat, this is now the case. For the future, we would like to increase the level of sales even for a small market in Gabon but we know that the potential exists – we will continue to make the brand better known through targeted marketing and sales actions.” Machinery Exchange in Zimbabwe As part of changes in the countries bordering South Africa, Bobcat confirmed the appointment of Harare-based Machinery Exchange as the new Bobcat Authorised Dealer for Zimbabwe, effective 1st January 2022. Antony Dube, National Sales & Rental Manager at Machinery Exchange, said: “The current business environment is still being adversely or indirectly affected by the overall effects of Covid on most global economies. Where shipping of units used to have a lead time of fourweeks, delays of up to two months have been documented as China is still experiencing partial lockdowns, thus in turn, disrupting the overall shipping process globally. “The most popular Bobcat products in our market are the B730 backhoe loader and the S450 skid-steer loader. The most important is the B730 Backhoe Loader, because the price is very competitive; it is a high quality and reliable product and it is multifunctional, serving most sectors in Zimbabwe i.e. agriculture, construction, earthmoving and mining. The B730 provides versatility for the user – a backhoe loader is capable of executing excavation and carrying of loads, whereas a frontend loader can only carry loads to and from job sites. Bobcat also offers premium products with excellent aftersales support. “Being part of the Bobcat Dealer Network has enabled Machinery Exchange to take the extra step towards attaining market leader status within the above-mentioned product offerings, as it allows the company to tap into a wider choice of markets (Construction, Earthmoving, Mining and Agriculture) thus bringing in more business opportunities.” Albadri Power Co. Ltd in Sudan In response to the opening up of the market in Sudan, Bobcat also appointed Khartoum-based Albadri Power Co. Ltd as the company’s new Authorised Dealer for the country, again effective from 1st January 2022. Mohamed Elbadri, CEO of Albadri Power Co Ltd, commented: “The Covid period was definitely a tough time for everyone but we have seen a 90% recovery from that crisis and the gap is narrowing all the time. One benefit we saw from the Covid pandemic was that it gave us a chance to explain to the Sudan government and big institutions how to mechanise jobs and that we should not depend 100% on manpower. We were able to explain that they should find alternative solutions by using compact equipment for increased safety for workers, and to deliver work in less time and to higher quality levels. “The S450 skid-steer loader is the most popular model in Sudan. It has a long history in the private sector but none in the public sector due to the absence of a Bobcat dealer in the country. Now with Albadri Power Co Ltd appointed as the exclusive Bobcat dealer in Sudan from the beginning of 2022, we are approaching the public sector in a proactive way. It helps that all skid-steer loaders whatever the brand are known as Bobcats in Sudan. “Sudan is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of resources. The main obstacles right now in Sudan are the political complications between the military and the public – once this is solved, then business will boom. Another of the arguments in favour of Sudan is that it can provide food security for all of the Arab world. So there are real prospects for the market to expand and at Albadri Power Co, our plan is to be ready to meet increased demand with a plentiful stock of Bobcat products and an excellent aftersales support set-up.” Great Potential in African Markets Nicolas Dumont at Bobcat added: “As a whole the compact industry in Africa has not yet returned to the level of 2019. At the end of 2021, the industry was still 12% under the pre-Covid demand. But if we consider the trend at country level, the reality is extremely different. For example, market conditions have been very difficult in Algeria owing to a range of factors. But when Algeria is excluded, the data shows that the industry in Africa has returned to its pre-Covid level and that it continues to grow by 6% for the period Jan-Apr vs the same period last year. “The most significant growth is in the Mini-Excavator segment which exceeded pre-Covidlevels and is showing a YTD growth of 32%. This is a sign of the start of a mindset change towards this product by companies that used to prefer the backhoe loader. “Today the major construction projects are usually located around major cities and the current compact industry is mostly concentrated in those areas. But in decades to come the remote cities and villages inside the country will also have their time. And everything has to be done there from water piping to houses to establishing fibre optic and waste water drainage systems to name a few. That means our dealers will also have to open new branches across the country to be able to provide service to these new locations. Today in most countries, our dealers have one main location in the capital city so they will also have to grow together with the industry. This capacity to grow is an important criterion in our dealer scouting process as we aim at growing together.” For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com... Read more...World premiere of the Goldhofer »FT SERIES« meets with lively interest11 November 2022EventsLots of visitors, promising talks and contracts signed Goldhofer Aktiengesellschaft was very satisfied with the outcome of this year’s bauma and the enormous interest shown by trade visitors in the new products unveiled. The trade show far exceeded the expectations of Robert Steinhauser, Vice-president Sales & Service Transport Technology at Goldhofer Aktiengesellschaft, with regard to the high level of demand for quality transport solutions and value-driven services. Major sources of interest were the international premiere of Goldhofer’s »FT-SERIES«, the new »STEPSTAR« Z and the »CARGOPLUS®« low-profile tire. Industry representatives and numerous interested parties were also keen to see the demonstrations of the PST/SL-E split combination with the FTV850 blade transporter. “bauma 2022 once again did justice to the event’s high standing in the industry,” says Robert Steinhauser. It is the tradition at Goldhofer not to reveal and present the details of its new products, technologies and services until the first day of the trade show. This year, too, the excitement was correspondingly great, as evidenced by the many media representatives attending the premiere. “With the presentation of Goldhofer’s latest world first in the form of the »FT-SERIES« we have definitely hit the bull’s eye and introduced a vehicle that will change the transportation market for years to come,” says a delighted Robert Steinhauser. “Universal combinability with existing Goldhofer modules and accessories means lower acquisition costs and opens up new business models in the field of cooperation with partners and cross-rental activities.” On the part of small and medium-sized enterprises, there was also great enthusiasm for the Goldhofer vehicles on show in the low payload segment such as the »TRAILSTAR« and »STEPSTAR« Z as new members of the »STARLINE« family. An optimized center of gravity, low deadweight and intelligent lashing system result in high payloads, short setup times, and fast transportation cycles. As an additional attraction, the exhibited vehicles came with TRAFFIDECK GO lightweight flooring, which combines low wear with a high coefficient of friction. Great interest was also shown in the »CARGOPLUS®« low-profile tires fitted to various vehicles, with their twin advantages of higher payloads and lower loading heights. More specifically, »CARGOPLUS®«60 offers an axle load of 10 tons compared with 8 tons with 205 tires, and »CARGOPLUS®«80 a 75 mm reduction in loading height for the same axle load with 245 tires. This translates into the ability to move taller and heavier construction machinery with the new Goldhofer tires. This in turn means greater versatility, more flexibility and fewer detours due to height restrictions on the route. There was equally keen interest in the other solutions presented at bauma such as the »ARCUS« P6, the MPA 5 and the »ADDRIVE« 2.0. Visitors were particularly impressed by the self-tracking trailing dolly combination for transporting concrete beams and other long items, which can also be converted into a wind turbine blade carrier in conjunction with »BLADES«. This again results in a much wider range of applications and a faster return on investment. The biggest crowd puller of all, however, was the PST/SL-E split combination demonstrated in combination with the new FTV 850. This solution gave an impressive demonstration of the fact that the decisive factor for blade transportation is not metric tons but lateral stability – with a vehicle width of up to 4,010 mm for maximum stability and safety even when the going is tough. “Once again, bauma has been the perfect opportunity to meet with proven experts in the construction industry and talk about new transport solutions. The discussions held are mutually stimulating and lead to new ideas and approaches for innovative solutions, whose results we hope to present at bauma 2025,” says a confident Matthias Ruppel, CEO at Goldhofer Aktiengesellschaft.... Read more...Wacker Neuson continues to grow significantly in third quarter of 2022 and increases profitability10 November 2022Finance Revenues up 18.1% year-on-year in the first nine months despite continuing challenging environment• EBIT margin of 8.8% noticeably improved compared with first half, but still down from prior year• Net working capital remains at high level and impacted by supply chain issues• Supply chains and price dynamics on the procurement market remain challenging• Forecast for the full year 2022 confirmed The Wacker Neuson Group, a leading manufacturer of light and compact equipment, continues to succeed in an unchanged challenging environment and posted significant growth in the third quarter. Group revenue for the first nine months of 2022 once again marked a record level at EUR 1,641.0 million, up 18.1 percent year-on-year (9M 2021: EUR 1,389.7 million). Adjusted for foreign exchange, the increase amounted to 15.1 percent. The earnings trend continued to be impacted by the general supply chain problems and high material, energy and logistics costs, while a changed customer mix in the third quarter also had a dampening effect. At EUR 144.6 million, earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) were almost on a par with the previous year (9M 2021: EUR 144.8 million). At 8.8 percent, the EBIT margin declined accordingly (9M 2021: 10.4 percent), but again improved by 0.6 percentage points compared to the first half of the year (H1 2022: 8.2 percent; Q1 2022: 7.5 percent). “Even though the challenges are steadily increasing over the course of this year, we have so far succeeded in continuing to grow strongly quarter by quarter and catch up in terms of profitability. Demand from our customers remains high, meaning that our order backlog continues to grow and now extends well into the second half of 2023,” explains Dr. Karl Tragl, CEO of the Wacker Neuson Group. “From a business perspective, this exceptionally high level of visibility gives us additional planning certainty. ” Continued double-digit growth in all reporting regions In the Europe (EMEA) segment, revenue increased by 13.0 percent to EUR 1,242.2 million in the first nine months (9M 2021: EUR 1,099.3 million). Once again, in addition to the home market of Germany, it was primarily the major European construction machinery markets of the UK and France that characterized growth with double-digit growth rates. In addition, the latest acquisition, the Enar Group, successfully contributed a full quarter to growth in the region for the first time. Furthermore, growth was driven by high demand for compact equipment, particularly wheel loaders and dumpers for the construction industry and telescopic handlers for agriculture. Revenue of the agricultural machinery brands, Kramer and Weidmann, also increased significantly accordingly, rising by 25.5 percent to EUR 318.0 million (9M 2021: EUR 253.4 million). In the Americas region, the positive trend from the first half of the year continued. Revenue developed extremely dynamically in the first nine months, increasing by 37.2 percent to EUR 333.1 million, also supported by the significant rise in the US dollar against the euro. Adjusted for foreign exchange, growth amounted to 22.9 percent. Within the region, there was a disproportionately good performance in the USA and Canada, characterized by high demand and strong order intake across all sales channels. There was also strong growth in construction site equipment and compact equipment, particularly skid steer loaders and excavators. In the Asia-Pacific region, the increase in revenue was even higher at 37.7 percent to EUR 65.7 million. Adjusted for foreign exchange, the increase was also the most significant in a comparison of the regions, at 29.6 percent. Among the individual markets, Australia again showed strong growth. The Chinese market remained weak. However, production in China continues to represent an attractive export hub for the African and South American markets in particular, due to the prevailing cost structures. Net working capital requirement continues to increase Net working capital amounted to EUR 760.7 million at the end of September 2022, significantly above the level at the end of 2021 (31 December 2021: EUR 497.6 million) and again substantially above the level of the previous quarter (30 June 2022: EUR 673.9 million). The net working capital ratio increased accordingly to 33.5 percent (31 December 2021: 26.1 percent; 30 June 2022: 30.6 percent). The increase is directly related to the increasing momentum of sales development, which gained further significant intensity particularly towards the end of the third quarter. This resulted in a disproportionate increase in receivables in relation to total revenue in the past quarter and thus in the net working capital ratio. Irrespective of this effect, however, there was still no improvement in the supply chain problem and thus in the level of work in progress in the past quarter. “Our extremely high order backlog reflects both the continued high demand for our products and the robustness of our business model. It therefore remains our primary goal to be able to meet this demand in the best possible way, even in times of ongoing supply chain issues,” explains Christoph Burkhard, CFO of the Wacker Neuson Group. “Our main focus remains on profitable growth. Accordingly, we have so far made a conscious decision not to reduce inventories in the short term so as not to jeopardize our growth opportunities. Nevertheless, we are working to reduce our net working capital by the end of the year.” As a result of the increased net working capital, free cash flow1 – before effects from the reversal of a fixed-term deposit – decreased to EUR -150.4 million (9M 2021: EUR 185.5 million). Net financial debt2increased to EUR 254.4 million (31 December 2021: EUR -0.8 million). Outlook for the full year confirmed Against the background of the business performance to date, the current business development in the fourth quarter and the high order backlog, the Executive Board confirms its forecast for the full year 2022. The Executive Board assesses the macroeconomic environment as unchanged difficult, particularly with regard to the supply chains. At the same time, the continuing high demand for the company’s products and the resulting above-average order situation provide a relatively good starting position from the company’s point of view, enabling it to position itself adequately even in the event of a deterioration in the economic environment.... Read more...IN LOVING MEMORY OF AMILCARE MERLO10 November 2022NewsRingwood, Hampshire | 09.11.2022 – Merlo UK are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of President and founder of Merlo, Mr Amilcare Merlo at 88 years old. Our thoughts are with the Merlo family, friends, loved ones and the many people throughout his beloved local community of Cuneo whose lives he touched. Born in 1934 on the outskirts of Cuneo, Italy, Mr Merlo began working in his father Giuseppe’s blacksmith workshop at just 14 years old, inspiring him to open the first Merlo Group production facility in 1964. Merlo Group celebrated their 50th Anniversary in 2014, marked by their recognition in the Italian register of historic companies. The following year, Amilcare and his sister, Natalina, were awarded honorary citizenship of the city of Cuneo. The Mayor of Cuneo, Patrizia Manassero expressed her condolences to the Merlo family, “It is a great loss for everyone. Amilcare Merlo was a very precious figure, together with his family, for our province. He was an honorary citizen of Cuneo, I want to remember him.” The Mayor continued, “Everything about him was an example of intelligence, generosity and vision” In a speech delivered while accepting an honorary Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Turin, Mr Merlo addressed the audience of students, “I say have the courage to dare, those who do not dare will never receive anything. Be curious and, even if it requires sacrifice, don’t stop at the first defeat. This recognition is a great satisfaction, the fulfilment of a dream for me who have always considered myself an engineer of the land.” “Amilcare Merlo was a truly inspiring figure for anyone that had the pleasure to meet him”, comments Shaun Groom, General Manager of Merlo UK Ltd. “All of us in the Merlo UK team are truly saddened by his passing. I know I can say that his wisdom, wit, determination and expertise will be missed by all. We will continue in the manner that he would of wished, ensuring the Merlo brand continues to innovate, develop & grow in the United Kingdom”. Mr Merlo is survived by his wife Denise and children Cristina, Paolo, Silvia, Andrea and Marco, along with several grandchildren.... Read more...JCB ROTATING TELEHANDLER JOINS BYLOR FLEET AT HINKLEY POINT C9 November 2022TelehandlersBYLOR, the civil engineering joint venture helping construct EDF’s Hinkley Point C Nuclear Power Station in Somerset, has deployed the might of one of JCB’s machines to handle thousands of tonnes of steel. The new JCB 555-210R rotating telehandler model is already in action on the UK’s largest infrastructure project. Bouygues Travaux Publics (TP) and Laing O’Rourke, two of Europe’s most dynamic engineering and construction specialists are working together in the BYLOR joint venture – delivering the main civil engineering works at Hinkley Point C (HPC). Supplied by dealer Holt JCB, the JCB 555-210R joins a fleet of over 2000 machines working on this huge infrastructure project and will be responsible for a range of materials handling applications on site where the versatility and productivity of the rotating telescopic handler model – alongside a maximum reach of 21-metres and lift capacity of 5.5 tonnes – will play a vital role. BYLOR General Plant Manager, John McCoppin said: “The JCB 555-210R rotating telehandler perfectly suits the site thanks to its size and ease of operation. We also already run the JCB 540-140 which means we have 80% parts commonality with the 555-210R which is a real efficiency bonus too. “The machine will be used in the construction of walls containing reinforced steel, handling the mesh panels contained in them. We’ll predominantly use the new machine in winch mode alongside standard fork logistics duties around the site. It will handle between 1,000-2,000 tonnes of steel across its typical 10-hour shift. The machine is easy to handle, the controls are very straightforward and it’s very good in tight spaces. That makes it perfect for our work and it is performing very well.” The JCB 555-210R boasts up to a 10% lifting envelope advantage over competitive machines. Auto one-touch deployment, stowage and levelling of outriggers ensures ease of use and minimal set-up time, while competitive lift-end cycle times with high-flow auxiliary hydraulics ensure efficient winch work, further boosting productivity. In addition to its impressive lift capabilities and automation features, the JCB 555-210R boasts a lower chassis mounted engine layout, providing easy, safe access for ground-level servicing. With 500-hour intervals and a best-in-class SAE serviceability rating, the machine delivers maximum uptime and enhanced productivity.... Read more...Bobcat E10e Excels in Inner City Work in the Netherlands9 November 2022GlobalOwner Willemsen Infra champions benefits of electric machines – Willemsen Infra BV, a civil engineering company from Utrecht in the Netherlands, purchased anew Bobcat E10e electric mini-excavator earlier in 2022. It is now one of the many electric vehicles and machines that WiIlemsen Infra uses on its projects. According to Justin Willemsen, Director at Willemsen Infra, the company’s choice of electric machines is mainly motivated by the stricter emission requirements in many city centres and by the advantage that having such equipment in the fleet offers when tendering for government contracts. Willemsen Infra offers a broad portfolio, covering earthmoving, road works and hydraulic engineering and is mainly active in the Utrecht region. It is a family business that was founded in 2008 and employs about 65 people. The company works mainly in the repair, maintenance and construction of sewerage systems, paving and soil remediation. Willemsen Infra also has a number of push boats with pontoons, with which work can be carried out on and along the canals of Utrecht. Modern Machinery Fleet Willemsen has a state-of-the-art fleet of machinery and vehicles. The company formed the fleet with the focus on reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, as most of the work it carries out is in urban areas. It also why several of the machines have a limited axle load of a maximum of two tonne and are equipped with tracking systems, with which the journeys and fuel consumption can be tracked. Justin Willemsen is a strong supporter of the use of electric equipment and tools. The company already has 14 electric vans in operation and recently an electric truck with a spray suction installation system for sewer work was added to the fleet. In addition, the company is gradually switching to electric power tools; including heavier kit such as band saws and vibratory plates. “We believe that we should actively contribute to making construction more sustainable,” says Justin Willemsen, “but the use of electric equipment also provides commercial benefits. When registering for the tendering of government projects, you have a significant advantage if you can carry out the work with electric equipment. We have already won several contracts where fully electrical work was a precondition. And the requirements for the use of construction equipment and vehicles in urban areas are only getting stricter.” Utrecht Precursor to Emission-Free The municipality of Utrecht, where Willemsen Infra works much of the time, is one of the trailblazers in the Netherlands when it comes to environmental and emissions policy. An environmental zone has now been set up in Utrecht, in which diesel vehicles are prohibited. This zone is likely to be expanded in 2023. By 2025, the power supply to the city centre is also required to be completely emission-free. These measures have been introduced to limit noise pollution and harmful emissions, but also to prevent vibrations that can damage the historic buildings. The municipality of Utrecht wants to achieve a completely emission-free city centreby 2030 at the latest. The municipality has also examined the role of construction machinery and mobile equipment. The engineering company, Royal HaskoningDHV, was commissioned by the municipality to carry out research into the causes of air pollution in the city, and this showed that mobile equipment is in second place. Forty per cent of the excavators and wheel loaders used in the city centre fall into the Stage IIIa and IIIb emission classes; so there are still many gains to be made. The municipality realizes that construction companies cannot simply replace older equipment; all the more so as zero-emission machines are considerably more expensive than traditional diesel-powered machines. According to Justin Willemsen, a solution could be for the municipality to work with contractors for longer periods of time, so that they have time to recoup their investments in replacing ‘old’ equipment with zero-emission machines. Depreciation and Residual Value Justin Willemsen is convinced that Willemsen Infra’s investments in electric equipment will bear fruit. “If you have a zero-emission fleet, you are at the front of the queue as a supplier. You can win tenders for sustainability, because KPIs have been defined for this and governments are prepared to pay more for this. And you really can’t secretly use a diesel machine for work, because there are strict controls. The fines can be up to 1500 euros per violation. “To be honest, we don’t have a complete picture of the exact operating costs of electric machines yet,” says Justin Willemsen, “because we can’t say much about depreciation and residual value yet. Of course we save on fuel costs and oil, but I think that mainly the limited maintenance of electric machines will be the deciding factor. We don’t know for sure yet, but as an entrepreneur you also have to be prepared to stick your neck out.” The Bobcat E10e Electric Mini-Excavator In any event, the Bobcat E10e has been very well received; both by the employees of Willemsen Infra and the residents of Utrecht, who often react with surprise to the fact that the excavator makes virtually no noise. Willemsen Infra’s employees are particularly satisfied with the hydraulic joystick control, which is placed on an adjustable console on the side of the driver’s seat. The position of the joysticks can be adjusted as the driver wishes. There is also plenty of foot space in the operator’s position. Because the machine is so quiet, communication between the operator and the rest of the work crew is also very easy. As the E10e mini-excavator weighs only one tonne, is only 72 cm wide (which can be increased to 110 cm using the extendable tracks) and has an integrated, foldable Tip Over Protective Structure, it is not only easy to transport, but also very suitable for working inside buildings, on difficult terrain, in inaccessible places and in narrow streets. Thanks to the zero tail swing, the E10e also causes almost no traffic problems. The machine has a number of other advantages, which are specific to an electric excavator: a patented electro-hydraulic drive system that makes full use of the capabilities of the electric motor. All electrical drive components are, of course, fully sealed in accordance with the IP67 rating. The lithium-ion batteries are sufficient to work in principle with breaks for eight hours a day. The E10e can also be used with all types of attachments, making the machine suitable for a wide range of jobs. Willemsen Infra currently uses the machine mainly for excavation work in the historic city centre of Utrecht and for work in other municipal locations. For more information on Bobcat and its products, visit www.bobcat.com... Read more...SANY unveils new range of machines at bauma 20228 November 2022Events07 November 2022; Under the theme “Keep on growing with a strong partner”, SANY unveiled an exciting and diverse range of new machines at this year’s bauma, all set to launch in the UK in 2023. Purely electric – the SY19E mini excavator As the demand for machines with low emissions is steadily increasing, the unveiling of the new SANY electric mini of the 1.8-tonne class was a key highlight of the show. As well as zero emissions, the LFP battery pack of this 100% electric machine has been designed without cobalt making it particularly environmentally friendly and safe to operate. Significantly lower noise levels (66 dB(A)) for improved operator comfort and reduced noise pollution, also makes for cleaner, more sustainable working. Equipped with an electric motor that delivers a peak output of 15 kW, along with the efficient load-sensing hydraulic system, it ensures a fast workflow and high-level output. Along with the multiple charging options that includes a fast charge of 1.5hrs and long battery life of up to 6hrs the machine guarantees total flexibility on site. New, safe, and comfortable – the STH1440 and STH1840 telescopic handlers The hotly anticipated SANY STH1440 and STH1840 Telehandlers are the first models of the new range, all equipped with well-known European primary components and with a cab designed and engineered in Europe. Both with a rated capacity of 4-tonne and powered by a Stage V 55kW Duetz 3.6 TD engine, these machines ensure optimum performance and low fuel consumption. With safety also firmly in focus, the machine’s ROPs and FOPs fully certified cab allows the operator excellent 360° visibility along with rear-view camera and sensors for visual and audible warnings. LED work and roof lighting, precise load management system and operator present safety switch also help to complete the safety package. A new generation – the SW305 heavy-duty wheel loader Also premiering at the week-long show was the mighty SANY SW305 wheel loader with Stage V Deutz 6-cylinder engine, 2.3 m³ bucket capacity and operating weight of 14.5-tonnes. The new generation of wheel loaders from SANY are excellently manufactured, built with well-known components including Kawasaki pumps and ZF transmission and fully equipped as standard including 360 camera, keyless entry, single joystick steering and 3rd function hydraulics. Leigh Harris, Business Development Director for the UK and Ireland commented “After a 3-year hiatus, bauma, didn’t disappoint us. It provided an incredible platform to unveil the exciting new products we are set to launch in 2023. SANY has made considerable headway in the UK in the last 2 years and wehave no intention of slowing down next year as we expand our portfolio to include these eagerly anticipated machines alongside our traditional excavator range. Huge thanks to the SANY team, dealer network representatives, our customers and stand visitors for helping to make this years bauma, asuperb event.” All machines will be available with SANY’s industry leading 5-year warranty and are due to be launched to the UK market in 2023.... Read more...DX225LC-7X Teleoperation Showpiece on Doosan Bauma Stand8 November 2022Excavators / TechnologyAt Bauma, Doosan demonstrated ‘TeleOperation’ of the company‘s new DX225LC-7X ‘Smart’ crawler excavator working in the Demo Area on the stand. Doosan defines TeleOperation as the operation of construction equipment from a remote station. At the last Bauma, Doosan created one of the highlights of the show, when the company provided the first demonstration of 5G technology for worldwide TeleOperation of construction machines. This entailed operating a Doosan DX380LC-5 40 tonne crawler excavator located over 8500 km away in South Korea, from an operator’s booth on the Bauma stand in Munich. One of the reasons for the huge distance between the machine and operator at Bauma 2019 was the lack of availability of 5G technology at the time in Europe. Three years on, 5G is now fully implemented in Europe so at this year’s show, visitors were able to see all of the parts of the operatlon live on the stand, with the DX225LC-7X being teleoperated by an operator in a booth in the Innovation Center. Doosan’s First ‘Smart’ Crawler Excavator As Doosan’s first Smart crawler excavator, the DX225LC-7X is designed to help operators work faster and more efficiently. The DX225LC-7X offers a number of exciting features as standard, including Full Electric Hydraulic (FEH) technology. As well as the FEH system, other standard features of the DX225LC-7X include integrated 2D machine guidance and machine control systems, as well as an e-Fence Virtual Wall. In the latest development, the DX225LC-7X is now 3D Trimble-ready and Engcon ready as standard from the factory. Once the machine has been delivered to the customer, they can simply contact their local Trimble dealer for a 3D extension, as well as their local Engcon dealer to install a tiltrotator. Machine Guidance and Machine Control The integrated machine guidance system on the DX225LC-7X uses sensors mounted on the front and body to recognize the location of each working device and inform/guide it for theoperator. Feedback to the operator is provided through audio and visual displays which allow improved control of the machine in relation to the intended or designed direction of travel. There are three major Machine Control functions, and they can be activated by pushing the appropriate function button:• Grade Assist• Lift Assist and Weighing system• Virtual e-fence – to limit the excavator with the maximum height/depth/reach and swing angle in both directions. Full Electric Hydraulic (FEH) Technology Full Electric Hydraulic (FEH) technology is similar to the D-ECOPOWER VBO (virtual bleed off) system now incorporated on the standard DX225LC-7 model and all Doosan crawler excavators from the DX300LC-7 and above. In effect, the FEH is a VBO system without pilot pressure lines. The joysticks and pedals are fully electric, but give the operator the same feeling as hydraulic joysticks. In the FEH system, an electric signal is sent to the central controller and as such is more precise and provides faster information. Back pressure and energy loss are therefore eliminated, by delivering the exact amount of oil needed. As the system does not utilise pilot pressure, energy is saved and there is a resultant fuel saving. In fact, the FEH system offers a significant 8% less fuel burn compared to the D-ECOPOWER VBO system. This is on top of the 7% decrease in fuel consumption already achieved in the standard DX225LC-7, compared to the previous DX225LC-5 model. For more on Doosan construction equipment, please visit the website: www.eu.doosanequipment.com... Read more...See & SprayTM comes to Europe7 November 2022TechnologyWalldorf, 7. November 2022 – At this year’s SIMA, John Deere will present See & SprayTM for the first time on its European sprayers built in Horst (Netherlands). Following the introduction of See & SprayTM Select and Ultimate in the USA, John Deere is taking the next important step towards precise crop protection. The See & SprayTM system for Europe is based on the See & SprayTM Select technology already introduced in the USA. It uses camera technology to detect colour differences in the field. The cameras and other hardware components are integrated directly into the boom or chassis of the machine. One camera is mounted per metre of working width, which captures green plants at lightning speed. Processors handle the images and the nozzles are triggered individually for spot treatment. The green detection on the field soil enables a targeted application of pre-emergence herbicides. All weeds that are also visible to the naked eye are detected by the cameras. See & SprayTM is not only suitable for pre-emergence treatment – it can also be used in row crops after emergence. The crop rows can be extracted by the sprayer and thus the weeds between the rows can be targeted and treated. This application is possible at all stages and for all row crops before the canopy closes, allowing the customer an additional treatment for See & SprayTM in the growing crop. Tested under different conditions See & SprayTM has already been tested on about 120,000 hectaresworldwide. The success in application is comparable to broadcast spray, but with a saving of up to two thirds of consumption. First tests in Europe showed the same results. In addition, the system could be optimised to adapt See & SprayTM to European conditions. See & SprayTM supports agronomic decisions The See & SprayTM system can document the application of herbicides using the in-cab Gen 4 display. In this context the display creates a coverage map with information on where the herbicide was applied. The documentation can be transferred via JDLinkTM to the John Deere Operations Center. Among other things, this would allow sub-areas with increased weed pressure to be identified and future measures to be optimised. Availability and machineSee & SprayTM Select is already sold with the self-propelled sprayers in the USA. These machines will be the first on the market in Central Europe this year. From spring 2023 See & SprayTM will be available on a limited basis for the European R900i series trailed sprayers with 36- and 39-meter booms and will then be offered as an option for various John Deere sprayers from Horst in the future. The following components are required for use on the R900i trailed sprayers:• The PowrSpray System • Pressure Recircualtion Booms• TerrainCommandTM Pro • Individual Nozzle Control • The agricultural management system solution JDLinkTM • The Gen 4 Display• StarFireTM 7000 Receiver... Read more...COUNCIL INVESTS IN POTHOLE PRO TO SPEED UP ROAD REPAIRS7 November 2022MachineNorthumberland County Council has invested in a JCB Pothole Pro to help keep the county’s roads running smoothly. It has bought the machine following a successful trial of the rapid road repairer. The Pothole Pro was put through its paces by the council last summer and will now help maintain some of the county’s 3,000+ miles of road. Its initial focus will be in the more urban south-east of the county, where the machine’s manoeuvrability and mobility mean it can be deployed quickly in town centres and on housing estates to complete repairs at multiple locations each day. Tests with other local authorities and contractors show the JCB Pothole Pro can increase the rate of repairs dramatically. Councillor John Riddle, Cabinet Member for Local services, said: “This is a great example of how we are using innovation and the latest technology to improve the services we provide. With a huge 3,000 miles of road to look after, anything that can speed up the process of repair and maintenance and save money is a win-win.” Cllr Riddle added: “We know road defects are one of the issues that cause our residents most concern and we’re determined to do everything we can to keep our roads in the best condition possible.” The development of the JCB Pothole Pro has been personally led by JCB Chairman Lord Bamford. He said: “I’m delighted that Northumberland County Council is joining other local authorities across the UK in investing in the JCB Pothole Pro, which is exceeding expectations with its speed and productivity.”... Read more...New Mechanical Couplers for Bobcat Mini-Excavator Range2 November 2022Equipment / ExcavatorsBobcat has extended the company’s quick coupler portfolio with a full selection of new Mechanical Pin Grabber systems available for the entire Bobcat mini-excavator line-up. They are ideal for use in many applications including construction, rental, roadwork, landscaping and agriculture. The new mechanical couplers offer increased comfort and productivity, with a single visit design guaranteeing that operators can change between attachments quickly, easily and safely on the jobsite. Coupler systems like this can convert mini-excavators into tool-carriers, enabling the operator to switch between buckets and a wide range of other attachments within minutes, maximizing efficiency and output. As well as speed and versatility, the reversibility of the new Mechanical Pin Grabber couplers allows operators to work closer to walls or under pipes. Pin-on attachments are also simple to attach, an attractive feature for rental businesses and their customers, increasing the adaptability of machines and the return on investment. Thanks to the thoughtful hook shaped engineering design of the coupler, the bucket does not fall when unhooked. A perpendicular lock system ensures there is maximum safety when working with Bobcat mini-excavators. The proven and tested design offers peace of mind as there are no greasing requirements and very few moving parts with no maintenance requirements (other than a daily inspection), guaranteeing that these are hassle-free couplers. The open and simple design is meant to work in mud – so mud does not get trapped in the system and block the mechanism. The Mechanical Pin Grabber couplers are manufactured using extra-high-strength steel increasing durability, while optimizing weight and the mini-excavator’s performance. Product Feature Summary Pin-on mount optimized for Bobcat mini-excavators Lift eye facilitating lifting objects around the jobsite Dedicated pick up dimensions for Bobcat attachments Dedicated release tool Design allows for reversed bucket pick-up enabling an even wider range of applications Built in safety features Perpendicular lock for maximum safety For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com... Read more...The Plantworx construction trade show gains traction as more exhibitors book for the 2023 event!1 November 2022EventsThe 5th biennial construction machinery exhibition will be held on 13-15 June 2023, at the East of England Arena and Events Centre, Peterborough. Technology is changing the face of the Construction landscape – the last four years have seen rapid growth in digital collaboration, electrification, connectivity, safety, telematics, real time-data, wearables, virtual and augmented reality – these coupled with the journey to automation, sustainability and the road to carbon zero, make the construction site of today and of the future a very different place. Plantworx 2023 will be the show where emerging and disruptive technologies will feature alongside construction equipment, innovation, technology products and services. The show remains the UK’s biennial showcase for the construction sector – and will lead visitors into the future of construction. Spanning more than 150,000m2 of exhibition space, Plantworx will give visitors an opportunity to see some of the latest plant and machinery operating in ‘real’ construction site conditions, alongside compact/mid-range equipment, tools and services. Already over 145 companies have secured their stand space and 85% of the digging demonstration areas have been sold. Many of the key machinery OEMs have already confirmed their presence at the show, these include, Hidromek, Takeuchi, Sany, Liugong, Mecalac, John Deere, Avant, Kubota, Doosan and Bobcat and BOMAG. Also expect to see attachment specialists Auger Torque and BPH Attachments, leading tiltrotator companies including Engcon, and Steelwrist. Handling and lifting specialist Manitou and Merlo have also confirmed alongside, remote control demolition experts, Brokk, which will be at the event showing the company’s latest demolition robots. The digital revolution is truly upon us and what started as a trickle has now become a flood of technology and connectivity companies coming to market. Plantworx has already attracted a number of these businesses to exhibit in 2023 – these include, telematics specialists MachineMax, ABAX Telematics and Plant Tracking, and connectivity solutions company, Onwave. Plantworx will also be showing ‘the future of the connected site’, which will feature the latest in site ‘technology’ – more details of this brand new initiative to follow in the next issue of Construction Worx. Machine control and machine guidance will also be a big part of the show, these systems are now ‘the norm’ on the majority of site machinery whether factory or retrofitted – iDig 2D & 3D by Nasco Digtec will be demonstrating the very latest in dig technology. Xwatch Safety Solutions, who is a leading provider of safety solutions for construction machinery is a brand new exhibitor and is currently a market leader in the design and supply of height & slew control for excavators, rated capacity indicators. James Fisher Prolec, also a leader in its field of site safety systems will be exhibiting its latest technology, as will award-winning Spillard Safety Systems, who alongside showing sophisticated camera systems, will be demonstrating safety systems designed for the future of connected vehicle technology. A full exhibitor list can be found on the Plantworx website www.plantworx.co.uk More space and opportunities for startup companies At Plantworx 2023 the availability of inside exhibition space has increased by up to 20%. This will also accommodate many of the new technology companies that have joined the sector since Plantworx 2019. A special offer has been designed to attract ‘startup’ companies and emerging innovators with the Plantworx “Big Ideas” showcase concept. CEE (Construction Equipment Events) Director Rob Oliver said, “We are looking for ‘startup’ companies with products, technologies or services new to the construction industry – which can make a Big IMPACT on the sector – which can improve efficiency, sustainability, safety or security. We are encouraging companies who think they fit the criteria to get in touch to discuss the discounted package.” The 2023 event is predicted to attract over 400 exhibitors from the world’s leading machine manufacturers, suppliers and service providers. Over the three-day event, visitors (a predicted 15000+) can expect to see the very latest in technological advancements and innovations which will impact the future of construction. Plantworx – the Venue The CEA took the decision to host Plantworx once again at the East of England venue, following positive feedback from exhibitors and visitors who attended the 2019 event, which was deemed a resounding success. The permanent exhibition facilities offered by the East of England Arena provided the perfect platform for exhibitors to showcase their products, equipment and services – introducing the latest plant and technology to the UK construction industry. Visitors also applauded the Plantworx show’s new home, praising the ‘all weather’ venue as a ‘definite winner’, with its permanent walkways, good communication signals and wifi facilities – which allowed visitors to ‘do business – while doing business’! The show, which will be the ‘largest working’ event in 2023, is planning a comprehensive demonstration programme where exhibitors can put their machines through their paces in ‘real-site’ conditions. Sales for stand space at the 2023 Plantworx Event are going great guns – there’s still time to book your space – please contact Angela Spink, Plantworx Sales Manager angela.spink@plantworx.co.uk for further details. Visit www.plantworx.co.uk for more information about the event.... Read more...New Doosan Dealer in Valladolid and Salamanca in Spain1 November 2022GlobalAgrimaq Rental and Sale has been appointed as the new Doosan dealer for the provinces of Valladolid and Salamanca by Centrocar, the exclusive importer for the Doosan Construction Equipment range in Spain, Portugal, Angola and Mozambique. Agrimaq has extensive experience in the sale and rental of machinery for the construction, maintenance, agriculture and livestock sectors in Valladolid and Salamanca. The company has impressive facilities with 5000 m2 of covered space and another 12,000 m2 of open areas for exhibiting and demonstrating equipment. Agustín Roncero, from the commercial side of Agrimaq, comments: “Representing the Doosan brand is undoubtedly a great opportunity for our company, with which we want to grow and develop a complementary business line that is highly compatible with the other brands that we distribute. “We intend to totally cover the market demand in our territory, with our technically well-qualified team and state-of-the-art facilities. We are responsible for all areas from Doosan machinery sales, post-sale, rental and also for service and support. For the latter, we have workshop vehicles fully prepared for rapid on-site assistance, which is why we are used to providing this type of service, highly valued by customers and operators. We have been dedicated to the sector for almost 30 years, and it is the importance we place on them and the good treatment that we give to all of our customers that sets us apart from the rest.” Agrimag is already dealing with several enquiries from customers interested in both Doosan excavators and loaders.”The first and most important thing is to make ourselves known and that all potential buyers can count on us when considering purchasing heavy equipment or carrying out maintenance and repair work on existing equipment,” adds Agustín Roncero. “Our expectations and forecasts for 2022 are, as I have mentioned before, to position ourselves as the Authorised Doosan dealer in the area and to promote the fast service we offer.” Picture Caption (l to r): Oscar Pulido and Agustin Roncero – sales representatives for Agrimaq Rental and Sale and Francisco Gamero from the commercial side of Centrocar Madrid. For more on Doosan construction equipment, please visit the website: www.eu.doosanequipment.com... Read more...Meet the Future! Wacker Neuson Group successful at Bauma 20221 November 2022EventsThe future is all about zero emission, digitization, and innovation – highlights at the trade show booth• Exciting live demo show in the Meet the Future Arena Under the motto “Meet the Future!”, Wacker Neuson and Kramer were welcoming guests to their 5,000-square-meter stand FN.915 in the north open-air exhibition area. “After more than two years of pandemic, we were particularly looking forward to Bauma – for us the trade fair home game,” says Alexander Greschner, Chief Sales Officer of the Wacker Neuson Group. “Already on the opening day we were really overwhelmed: Visitors streamed to our stand, we had many very good conversations and saw sales success from day one at 2019 levels and above. Our conclusion: Bauma is and remains for us the leading trade fair in our industry and the platform to present our innovations to customers and trade visitors.” Three main topics were the focus at the Wacker Neuson and Kramer booth: Meet Green: The complete zero emission package Visitors to the “Meet Green” section were able to find out about the zero emission offering, which was expanded at Bauma to include a number of machines and services – such as special zero emission financing offers but also solutions in the field of charging infrastructure. “With our zero emission portfolio, an entire inner-city construction site can now be operated with no local emissions,” explains Alexander Greschner. “The next step for us is to provide the entire ecosystem for our customers: From charging infrastructure to services, financing offers and different usage models, to a life cycle approach of the battery.” For the first time, Wacker Neuson was showcasing the new TH412e electric telehandler, the RD28e electric roller, a Charging Box for mobile power supply, and the very compact DT05e dumper. Battery One was also presented, a standardized and user-friendly battery system that focuses on carbon-free and sustainable use of construction equipment. The battery can be used not only in all battery-electric equipment from Wacker Neuson, but also in construction equipment from other manufacturers. One Bauma highlight was the reversible battery plate APU3050e with the DireX direct drive developed by Wacker Neuson, which ensures efficiency and longer runtimes. In addition, the third generation of the WL20e e-wheel loader with a powerful lithium-ion battery was unveiled at Bauma. Kramer also wasshowing innovations in the zero emission sector: In addition to the 5065e electric wheel loader, the successor to the proven 5055e, Kramer presented the 1445e E-telescopic handler – both machines rely on the latest lithium-ion battery technology. Meet Innovation: Practical Solutions In the “Meet Innovation” area, Wacker Neuson and Kramer were demonstrating that innovation is part of their DNA. One highlight was the Wacker Neuson EW100 wheeled excavator, which heralds a new era in compact wheeled excavators. It stands out in terms of safety thanks to its excellent sightlines and stability. What’s more, the 10-ton excavator’s powerful drive hydraulics and high basic working capacity enable it to perform tasks that would otherwise require a 14-ton excavator. In addition, the EW100 comes with all the preparations needed to implement future developments in attachment management or assistance systems simply by updating the software. This eliminates the need for complex conversions, which saves time and money and makes the machine fit for the future. Another innovation was the Dual View Dumper DV45, the smallest Dual View model. The electro-hydraulically rotatable cab can now be rotated 180 degrees forwards and backwards and 90 degrees to the side at the touch of a button on the joystick. In this “Multi View” mode, the DV45 can also be driven with the cab turned sideways. Wacker Neuson will also be showcasing numerous highlights in the construction equipment sector, including the extremely lightweight BH40 gasoline breaker. With the 20-kg breaker, Wacker Neuson offers the lightest gasoline breaker with well-known high performance. Kramer was presenting its full range of all-wheel steering wheel loaders and telescopic loaders and, as a highlight, the fully hydraulic “Smart Attach” quickhitch system. With Smart Attach, attachments with hydraulic auxiliary functions, such as a sweeper or folding bucket, can be coupled and uncoupled in seconds without the operator having to leave the cab. This saves time and costs. Operation of the quickcoupler system remains as simple as ever and is carried out via the joystick directly from the cab. The special feature of the Kramer system is that existing attachments can continue to be used thanks to the consistent dimensions of the quick change plate. The Smart Attach attachments also fit corresponding Kramer wheel loaders in the existing portfolio. In addition, the Kramer telescopic loader series from 3 to 5.5 tons payload got a facelift, which was presented for the first time at Bauma. Meet Connectivity: Real Benefits through Digitalization Visitors learned how digital solutions bring greater efficiency and transparency to the construction site under the heading “Meet Connectivity”. One example was the new assistance system for concrete consolidation from Wacker Neuson: ConcreTec. It enables concrete components to be compacted easily and transparently and in high quality in a reproducible manner. Wacker Neuson also presented the cloud-based software solution EquipCare Pro. This enables customers to manage, schedule, and evaluate all telematics-based machines, implements, and construction site equipment regardless of manufacturer or brand, thus boosting the productivity of their machine fleet. Also exhibited at the Bauma: The mixed-reality “Smart Glasses.” They have already been implemented for real-world use at Wacker Neuson in South Africa since the beginning of the year. When a customer needs help, the dealer’s service technician, equipped with the Smart Glasses, can connect live with the experts and share his view of the machine or transfer the support screen to the glasses. Digitalization also plays an important role in the development of machines: The new EW100 wheeled excavator includes an intelligent Attachment Management System that supports the operator during attachment changes via the 10-inch display. For example, it automatically adjusts the machine dynamics to the attached tool. Here you can see some highlights from our booth: More information at booth FN.915 and at: www.wackerneuson.com/bauma und www.kramer.de... Read more...Why Rokbak? Read on to find out!31 October 2022NewsEver wondered what goes into launching a new brand? Jacqueline Reid, who led the team behind the award-winning Rokbak rebranding project, reflects on a successful first year and tells all about the renaming process – from how it came about to why it was needed. It’s been just over a year since the strong, modern Rokbak brand entered the market – but it was about three years earlier that the team started working on the project. “In 2018, we did market research with current and previous customers, in markets where we were doing well and in those where we weren’t so successful,” says Jacqueline Reid, Global Director of Marketing Communications & Product Management. “We discovered that some legacy issues had left a few unpleasant memories with customers. They no longer thought of Terex Trucks as a brand for today, so it was clear we had to do something.” Jumping forward to the AED show in January 2022 – just over four months after the launch – and everything had changed. “That was a real highlight for us,” says Jacqueline. “Dealers were approaching us excitedly to represent Rokbak. For them to come to us and be so positive was a massive endorsement.” Existing dealers had expressed similar sentiments right from the September 2021 brand launch, which produced lots of positive coverage in both the construction press and on social media. Pride and engagement rocketed back home in Motherwell, Scotland, too. “I think legacy problems had left some of our team feeling a bit flat,” explains Jacqueline. “One of the sales team hadn’t been 100% convinced on the rebrand but, after we launched, he could barely contain his excitement about all the emails and calls he was getting. He said, ‘I feel so proud standing behind the product!’ – that was amazing for me to hear. Another highlight was the positive feedback we received from dealers, customers, visitors and other manufacturers at Hillhead – everyone was saying that our haulers were the best-looking pieces of equipment on site!” The Rokbak rebrand followed millions of pounds worth of investments and product improvements It’s what’s on the inside that counts too Of course, it takes much more than a new look to achieve this level of success. The rebrand followed huge investments and technological improvements after Volvo Construction Equipment’s (Volvo CE’s) acquisition in 2014. In fact, reviving a Volvo Group legacy brand, or joining another brand’s portfolio, was an initial consideration when it came to renaming the company. But ultimately it was decided to use a new name, with something that would reflect the legacy of both companies being the initial angle. “We thought about our heritage, Volvo’s core values and reflecting what we stand for,” continues Jacqueline. “We came up with 250 potential names, many from Scottish Gaelic and Scandinavian sources to reflect our roots. We narrowed that down to 52 words, and then got a historian involved to provide more detail on each word before it came down to 12 and then the final five. “We put an image board behind each name to see how we could make them work – for instance, SKOT, reflecting both the Scottish and Scandinavian elements, was all about black stallions. But there’s a company with a similar name, so we decided against it. Then there was STARK, like in the Iron Man films – that would have changed perceptions, but wouldn’t be ideal for search engine optimisation (SEO) purposes and, as an English word, it obviously has a meaning behind it.” One of the other final options had no such disadvantages – ‘Rokbak’ came entirely free of legal baggage and was a completely clean slate in terms of SEO too. Workshopped alongside images of strength and true grit, such as rocks and strong backbone, the brand’s direction soon became clear for all to see. “I was passionate about the name Rokbak – it was a strong, rugged word that represented our company,” says Jacqueline. “I could imagine how it would look and feel and what the merchandise would look like.” A unique colour Finding a new colour scheme to reflect the new brand was another challenge. Many people appreciated the Terex Trucks white paintwork for its uniqueness in a sea of yellow and orange competition. The team were keen to maintain this differentiation by avoiding some of the industry standard colour palettes, originally looking at variations of greens, oranges and blues, before the Sand suggestion gained traction. The new sand-colour of the Rokbak haulers has been well received by customers and dealers who like its distinctive and modern look “We worked with Volvo’s product design team to come up with the Sand-colour,” says Jacqueline. “The first time I saw it on the iron I was blown away – it really came to life. It’s not a huge jump from white, but it’s distinctive, clean and modern, with great gloss levels.” There was also a lot of administration work required for the rebrand. “We had to be mindful of legal requirements from IP to contracts, and carefully align timings – much of this was done while working from home due to Covid lockdowns,” continues Jacqueline. Inevitably, the pandemic impacted the launch event too, which had to be held online. “With the launch being digital, I was worried people might not tune in,” admits Jacqueline. Those fears proved groundless, of course, with 600 invited guests in 22 countries watching the launch and feedback throughout the past 12 months providing more than enough proof that the years of research and testing were well worth the effort. A strong, modern brand “People recognised we’d needed to embrace a strong, modern brand to reflect everything that had changed over the previous seven years, but our heritage is a massive element that we mustn’t lose,” concludes Jacqueline. “There’s a long line of experience within the team, and that reflects the huge amount of passion and pride that was at the heart of this. I am exceptionally proud of what we’ve achieved together.” The rebranding team’s hard work was officially recognised by those outside of the construction equipment industry throughout the year. First came the CeeD Industry Awards in February, then the company took home five Marketing Society Star Awards – which included Jacqueline being named Inspirational Marketing Leader of the Year. Main image: Jacqueline Reid, lifting the Rokbak barbell, led the hugely successful rebranding project... Read more...SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION: TVH OBTAINS NEW INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATE27 October 2022Global / NewsAs of 25 October, parts specialist TVH may call itself SDG Champion. Indeed, the company reached the second level in the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) sustainability trajectory. TVH − a global player in the field of parts for forklifts, industrial, construction and agricultural equipment – was one of the first Belgian companies to receive the UNITAR certificate of SDG Pioneer in 2020. This constituted international recognition for corporate sustainability. Specifically, TVH garnered the highest praise during the last audit for its recycling efforts, ergonomic work environment, and extensive electric vehicle fleet and infrastructure. Now, TVH has also reached the next level, i.e. becoming SDG Champion. Anton Theunynck, Global Sustainability Manager at TVH: “To our company, sustainability is of strategic importance. This clearly helped to convince the jury, as did our choice to commit to specific SDGs, through targets and measurements. A final convincing element was our policy to have key actors, such as the board, management and focus groups, take on a specific role, all the while providing the necessary cross-pollination. We were also given some homework: translating all of this into bigger strategic actions.” Photo: Anton Theunynck (Global Sustainability Manager at TVH) and Frederik Hanssens (SHE Manager at TVH) with the SDG Champion certificate.... Read more...Bobcat Rolls Out Ground Maintenance Equipment in EMEA27 October 2022EquipmentFollowing on from its success in the North American market, Bobcat’s line-up of innovative ground maintenance equipment (GME) is now available to customers across the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region. The news was announced at Bauma 2022, which is currently taking place in Munich, Germany. Gul Nalcaci, Senior Product Manager for the company’s GME range, said: “Bobcat aimsto rank within the top-three GME manufacturers in Europe. To achieve this ambitious goal, we are rolling out our ground maintenance machinery across the region. Bobcat’s EMEA offering will include compact tractors*, zero-turn mowers and turf equipment, which is supplementedby the company’s existing mini track and small articulated loaders.” Compact Tractors to Suit Every Requirement Bobcat is offering three compact tractor platforms – the 1000, 2000 and 4000 series – which feature nine new models designed to meet the needs of EMEA customers. Each model varies in size and engine horsepower, with the option to choose between manual and hydrostatic transmissions, and open canopies (ROPS) and cabs. Bobcat’s compact tractors can be equipped with front, mid and rear connections and power take-offs. The proven Bob-Tach system comes as standard on all front-end loader platforms, enabling users to switchattachments for multiple jobs easily, delivering greater value and versatility for their businesses. More Mower for Your Money Following the acquisition of Bob-Cat Mowers, Bobcat is introducing a large, industry-leading family of rugged, mowers to the entire EMEA region. Models will include ride-on, stand-on and commercial walk-behind mowers, all of which are engineered to deliver a superior quality cut in less time. Aimed at both lawn-care professionals and residential users, Bobcat mowers are equipped with innovative cutting decks – available in a variety of sizes – to give users a professional edge. With a wide range of durable, zero-turn units on offer, there’s a Bobcat mower for every operator and application. Loaders Designed with Versatility in Mind Bobcat’s GME range includes the recently launched MT100 mini track loader, and L23 and L28 small articulated loaders that entered the market last year. These machines remove the need for manual labour, replacing the use of wheelbarrows, shovels and hand tools across multiple ground maintenance applications. The models are also versatile tool carriers, with a broad range of compatible attachments that enable contractors to maximize productivity and safety when undertaking ground maintenance tasks. Top-Class Turf Equipment Following its acquisition of Ryan Turf Equipment, Bobcat is offering expertly designed, high-performance turf-care equipment across the entire EMEA region. This expanded portfolio ofheavy-duty, commercially built and long-lasting machinery includes aerators, power rakes anddethachers, overseeders and sod cutters. “All of our ground maintenance machines are tough and versatile, delivering excellentproductivity, superior comfort and maximum uptime. With an extensive catalogue of proven attachments, Bobcat provides solutions to meet every demand in the ground maintenance sector. What’s more, GME customers will benefit from Bobcat’s already-established service and logistics network, which covers every corner of the EMEA region,” concludes Gul Nalcaci. For more information about Bobcat and its products, visit www.bobcat.com.... Read more...Doosan Stand at Bauma ‘Powered by Innovation’27 October 2022EventsUnder the ‘Powered by Innovation’ banner, the Doosan stand at Bauma 2022 highlights a number of new leading-edge products and services that deliver added value to customers through innovation. In doing so, the Doosan Bauma stand also reflects the company’s ongoing transformation from an equipment manufacturer into a provider of innovative solutions. The innovations being premiered on the Doosan stand include:• XiteCloud ‘All-in-One Platform’ for Smart Construction• The World’s First ‘Transparent Bucket’ System in Operation• Teleoperation of DX225LC-7X ‘Smart’ Crawler Excavator • Next Generation DoosanCONNECTTM App Manage Multiple Tasks on a Single Platform One of the most important features of the Doosan stand at Bauma is the dedicated Innovation Center, where the company will unveil the new generation XiteCloud ‘All-in-One Platform’ for Smart Construction. In 2019 in South Korea, Doosan introduced Concept-X, the world’s first unmanned automated and integrated control solution for construction, quarrying and miningsites. XiteCloud is the first stage in commercialising Concept-X. Visitors to Bauma can see the latest developments in the XiteCloud system, as the company further expands its business portfolio into the field of construction site management, to complement its existing operations in manufacturing and sales of construction equipment. With XiteCloud, a customer can manage multiple tasks such as surveys, terrain analysis, machine purchases, equipment operation and construction management on a single platform, thereby reducing construction costs and saving time, while increasing work accuracy, which in turn raises productivity. XiteCloud also allows customers to manage multiple projects on a single platform, accumulating and managing data that can be utilized for future decision making/business. At Bauma 2022, visitors to the Innovation Center on the Doosan stand will be able to see the new All-in-One Platform for smart construction, based around the XiteCloud system. The All-in-One Platform introduces a range of new solutions that form part of the XiteCloud system, all of which will be demonstrated at Bauma, covering many aspects of construction management, including: • XiteCore• XiteFleet• XiteAuto• XiteAnalyst• XiteSafety• XiteSIM As suggested by its name, XiteCore is a Cloud-based open integrated dashboard system that connects all of the XiteCloud solutions, providing the information needed to carry out a construction project and enables easy project management and control at a glance. This system provides opportunities for collaboration/communication among project participants with an open platform that adopts an applied card-type interface that allows the user to set the dashboard flexibly according to the particular characteristics of the project(card type, location, size, etc.) It also incorporates real-time monitoring of weather, manpower, equipment, instruments, CCTV and other aspects, together with connection to the other solutions within XiteCloud such as XiteFleet, XiteAuto, XiteAnalyst and so on. XiteFleet provides real-time fleet monitoring with location tracking and operation monitoring. XiteAuto commercializes the current and future technology that Doosan is developing from 3D machine guidance to automation. XiteAnalyst is a digital twin-based earthwork analysis/management solution. XiteSafety offers safety management, including preventingcollisions between construction equipment and workers. The XiteSIM 3D BIM based construction equipment (crane) pre-simulation solution allows the user to review optimal construction safety plans. The World’s First ‘Transparent Bucket’ System A fully working demonstration of Doosan’s industry unique Transparent Bucket safety system will be at Bauma for the first time. The Transparent Bucket is the first safety system of its type to provide a solution to prevent the danger of blind spots in front of the buckets of wheel loaders. The Transparent Bucket is a system that allows the wheel loader driver to see these blind spots using the monitor in the cab. The innovative system records images in front of the wheel loader with top and bottom front-loaded cameras and shows combined images on the cab monitor in real time using a curved projection method. Owing to blind spots caused by the buckets on wheel loaders, the area in front of the machines has been considered an area of major concern in terms of safety. With the new Doosan Transparent Bucket function, however, the driver can easily check the blind spots in front of the bucket via the cab monitor, to increase safety and prevent accidents. Another advantage of the Transparent Bucket system is that it can significantly improve work efficiency by providing a forward-view perspective for the driver during loading/unloading or when carrying materials such as aggregates, sand and soil. Other Safety Systems from Doosan on the Bauma Stand Doosan has also developed further sophisticated cutting-edge safety systems for the company’s machinery range, such as the around view monitor (AVM) system, that can observe the machines’ surroundings, and a rear warning system using ultrasonic sensors, which have both received very favourable responses from customers. These systems are also on view at Bauma. A Doosan spokesperson commented: “As machinery and site safety standards continue to be significantly raised around the world, advanced safety systems have become a key factor in selecting equipment. We plan to continue developing safety features that can protect drivers and other workers on site, and we aim to be at the forefront in creating construction sites that are safer and accident-free.” DX225LC-7X Teleoperation Showpiece on Doosan Bauma Stand . At Bauma 2022, Doosan will be demonstrating ‘TeleOperation’ of the company‘s new DX225LC-7X ‘Smart’ crawler excavator working in the Demo Area on the stand. Doosan defines TeleOperation as the operation of construction equipment from a remote station. At the last Bauma, Doosan created one of the highlights of the show, when the company provided the first demonstration of 5G technology for worldwide TeleOperation of construction machines. This entailed operating a Doosan DX380LC-5 40 tonne crawler excavator located over 8500 km away in South Korea, from an operator’s booth on the Bauma stand in Munich. One of the reasons for the huge distance between the machine and operator at Bauma 2019 was the lack of availability of 5G technology at the time in Europe. Three years on, 5G is now fully implemented in Europe so at this year’s show, visitors will be able to see all of the parts of the operatlon live on the stand, with the DX225LC-7X being teleoperated by an operator in a booth close to the Demo area. As Doosan’s first Smart crawler excavator, the DX225LC-7X is designed to help operators work faster and more efficiently. The DX225LC-7X offers a number of exciting features as standard, including Full Electric Hydraulic (FEH) technology. As well as the FEH system, other standard features of the DX225LC-7X include integrated 2D machine guidance and machine control systems, as well as an e-Fence Virtual Wall. In the latest development, the DX225LC-7X is now 3D Trimble-ready and Engcon ready as standard from the factory. Once the machine has been delivered to the customer, they can simply contact their local Trimble dealer for a 3D extension, as well as their local Engcon dealer to install a tiltrotator. Next Generation DoosanCONNECTTM App At Bauma, Doosan is demonstrating the company’s DoosanCONNECTTM Digital Platform, which has recently been launched across all European countries. While the DoosanCONNECT Fleet Management System already in use is focused on providing equipment management data based on telematics, the DoosanCONNECT Digital Platform is a mobile application available for both Apple and Android devices that now offers customers a new all-in-one management system for Doosan construction equipment. The latest upgrade to the DoosanCONNECT App introduces additional services and expanded overall functionality, allowing the App to eventually manage all processes from operation and maintenance to parts purchase through this one platform. The system is designed to increase productivity and efficiency at construction sites by reducing equipment management time and effort compared to offline and other solutions. DoosanCONNECT tells the customer what they need and what they need to do. In addition, if equipment is in an abnormal state, a failure notification will be received. Management of the machine’s maintenance plan and the recording of the maintenance history is also another new key feature that adds convenience. Service can be requested directly, and the progress can be checked in real-time on the app itself.... Read more...Doosan Machinery Premieres at Bauma 202227 October 2022Events / MachineDoosan is presenting an unrivalled display of new machinery products being seen for the first time at the Bauma exhibition. They include the new DX1000LC-7 100 tonne crawler excavator, a brand new 4×4 version of the DA45-7 articulated dump truck (ADT), the award-winning DL-7 family of wheel loaders, the new DX225LC-7X ‘Smart’ Crawler Excavator, the new DX-7 medium-sized crawler and wheeled excavator ranges and new mini-excavator and compact wheel loader ranges. DX1000LC-7 – The Largest Ever Excavator from Doosan At Bauma, Doosan is premiering the new DX1000LC-7 Stage V compliant 100 tonne crawler excavator, the largest excavator model ever manufactured by the company. Driven by the most powerful engine in the 100 tonne class, the DX1000LC-7 also has the highest hydraulic flow for this size of machine, providing best-in-class performance, with higher productivity, lower fuel consumption and smoother controls. Like all Doosan excavators, much attention has been given to operator comfort and safety. The DX1000LC-7 has a new, very spacious operator cab, equipped with ergonomic controls and instrumentation. Special care has been taken to ensure noise is kept to a minimum through enhanced sealing of the engine compartment and extensive use of sound-dampening materials. All components and assemblies are designed, built and tested to ensure durability. Multi-stage filters and features such as track guards and cylinder guards for the boom and arm, the auto grease system and greased and sealed track links are designed to provide superior reliability and a long service life. The DX1000LC-7 is easy to maintain, further reducing downtime to a minimum. Brand New ADT Concept from Doosan Another world premiere for Doosan at Bauma is the launch of the company’s new 4×4 articulated dump truck (ADT). Complementing the company’s standard, market-leading range of 6×6 ADT models, the new 4×4 version of the DA45-7 ADT is intended to compete with rigid dump trucks (RDTs) in the 40-tonne class. In the new 4×4 ADT, the front truck and cab unit is the same as in the original 6×6 model, with modifications being made on the rear dumper unit only. Featuring a ZF EP8-420 transmission, the 4×4 DA45-7 is a two-axle ADT with twin wheels at the rear, and with a dumper section similar to that on RDTs in the 40-tonne class. Summarising the advantages over RDTs:• The 4×4 ADT can climb up bigger inclinations than equivalent RDTs• The 4×4 ADT performs better than RDTs in wet and slippery conditions• In heavy rain, RDTs may need to stop working – Doosan’s 4×4 ADT does not• Thanks to the short turning radius, the 4×4 ADT operates effectively on compact sites• The two axle 4×4 ADT design causes less ground disturbance than 6×6 configurations The New DL-7 Range of Wheel Loaders Making its first appearance at Bauma, the award-winning ‘DL-7’ wheel loader range from Doosan will be represented on the Doosan stand by the DL200-7, DL280-7, DL420CVT-7 andthe top-of-the-range DL580-7 models, four of eleven models in the range. Redesigned buckets offering up to 7% more capacity ensure the new Doosan DL-7 wheel loaders provide easier and faster loading with maximum bucket capacities from 2.0 to 6.4 m3.This provides increased productivity for a very wide range of material-handling applications. These include the transport and delivery of soil, sand, aggregates and other materials in industry, recycling, waste, construction, demolition, mining and quarrying. Doosan is also offering a wider choice of options to provide more work tools for a better match with applications, further increasing output. The Z-kinematic lift arm delivers high breakout forces and lifting capacities, especially for heavy materials, and a large dump angle for efficiently unloading sticky materials. An optional high lift arm is available where higher dump heights and increased versatility are required. The DX225LC-7X – Doosan‘s First ‘Smart‘ Excavator Being shown for the first time in the world at Bauma, the new DX225LC-7X – Doosan’s first ‘Smart’ crawler excavator is designed to help operators work faster and more efficiently. To facilitate this, the DX225LC-7X offers a number of exciting new features as standard, including Full Electric Hydraulic (FEH) technology. Doosan excavators are well known for offering more innovative features as standard than other machines on the market. But the new DX225LC-7X smart model takes this to a new level. As well as the FEH system, other standard features of the DX225LC-7X include:• Integrated 2D Machine Guidance• Semi-Automatic 2D Machine Control• Laser Receiver• E-Fence Virtual Wall• Weighing System In the latest development in the DX225LC-7X, the machine is now 3D Trimble-ready andEngcon ready as standard from the factory. Once the machine has been delivered to thecustomer, they can simply contact their local Trimble dealer for a 3D extension, as well astheir local Engcon dealer to install a tiltrotator. New Medium-Sized ‘DX-7’ Excavator Range Doosan‘s new medium-sized ‘DX-7’ range of 17 Stage V crawler and wheeled excavator models from 14 to 25 tonne also makes its first appearance at Bauma. Altogether, the new medium-sized DX-7 models provide significantly higher performance in every area than the previous generation Stage IV machines. They combine enhanced comfort, increased tool carrier capability and novel operator assist technology, with new features to boost fuel efficiency, uptime and return on investment, with a focus on increased power, robustness and agility. Maintenance of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) has also been greatly reduced, with no maintenance required until the machine has operated for 8000 hours. Next Generation Doosan Compact Excavators Bauma provides a first look at selected models from Doosan’s next generation compact excavator range, including the DX100W-7 10.7 tonne wheeled excavator, which offers a high performance solution for customers looking for a wheeled excavator designed primarily for urban and road maintenance applications. For this type of work, the DX100W-7 offers the best compromise between compactness and agility, complemented by excellent productivity and high-end comfort. It is very important that this type of machine can operate in very restricted areas, so the DX100W-7 can be equipped with the option of four wheel steering and a crabbing mode, with two wheel steering as standard. The new DX27Z-7 2.8 tonne, DX35Z-7 3.9 tonne, DX50Z-7 5.4 tonne and DX55R-7 5.7 tonne Stage V compliant mini-excavators are all ideal for confined space work in construction, landscaping and utility projects. A novel platform design featuring new upper structures has increased durability/robustness and this is complemented in all four new mini-excavators by a larger working range than other equivalent machines on the market, coupled with higher lifting capacities and digging forces. New Compact Wheel Loaders Following the signing of an exclusive supply agreement with Netherlands-based Tobroco-Giant, Doosan has confirmed the details of the new five model range of 3.5 to 5 tonne compact wheel loaders comprising the DL60-7, DL65-7, DL80-7, DL85-7 and DL80TL-7 models. Just like their heavier versions in the Doosan range, the new compact wheel loaders set the industry standard for productivity, flexibility, comfort, safety and reliability. All the new machines offer a full package of modern technology features including: •A powerful Stage V engine •Hydrostatic 4-wheel drive •100% differential lock on both axles •Versatile and powerful hydraulics •High lift capacity with dependable stability... Read more...A record number of new products presented at Bauma27 October 2022Events / TelehandlersA shift to electric with 7 new models: four new aerial work platforms, two new rotating telehandlers, the first 100% electric compact telehandlerFour new medium-height telehandlersA new range of high capacity telehandlersA reinforced presence on the compact market with a new range of articulated loaders and the ULM Munich, October 24, 2022 – Manitou Group, the worldwide leader in handling, aerial lift platforms and earthmoving, presents a record number of new products at the largest international trade fair for construction and industry, Bauma. Among the innovations: four new aerial work platforms, two rotating telehandlers, and a fixed telehandler. The range of mid-height telehandlers also welcomes four new models. Launch of the electric platform range With four new platform models, the group is accelerating the roll-out of its “Oxygen” low emissions range. The 200 ATJe rough-terrain platform (working height of 20 meters) is now available with four-wheel steer for greater maneuverability and a basket that can now take 250 kg of load, 30 kg more than on the two-wheel drive version. The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is reduced with an almost 50% decrease in maintenance costs compared to the internal combustion version. The range of rough-terrain electric telehandlers also welcomes two models, 160 ATJe and 180 ATJe. With a working height of 16 meters and 18 meters respectively, these platforms also see their capacity increased by 50 kg for a basket that can take a total weight of 250 kg. There is also a second version named 160 ATJ+ e, with capacity significantly increased to 400 kg. A range extender solution is also presented in the form of a removable generator common to all the machines, allowing for a week of autonomy. As safety is at the heart of Manitou Group’s mission, the 160, 180 and 200 ATJe models come with a Safety Pack, protecting the operator and the site teams, as well as alerting fleet managers to any high-risk behavior. The innovations in this pack include forgotten harness detection and detection of obstacles around the machine’s chassis. A “lighting” pack ensures the utmost safety for platform loading and unloading operations with a number of lights positioned on the platform to see and be seen. Arnaud Boyer, VP of Marketing & Product Development adds: “With all these new products, Manitou Group is the first manufacturer to have a range of 100% electric rough-terrain platforms from 16 meters to 20 meters. The acceleration of our electric development allows us to now offer low-emission solutions across our platform ranges, as well as on our telehandlers. We will continue to extend this energy to other ranges in accordance with the objectives of our CSR roadmap”. A new version of the 120 AETJ platform has also been added to the industrial range. Presented as a sneak preview, this model has been entirely redesigned and is fitted with AC (asynchronous) motors providing comfort and flexibility of use. A lot of work has been done on the accessibility of the components, such as the pivoting battery containers and tool-free access, for savings on machine maintenance. This new generation of industrial articulated platforms is equipped with the same diagnosis system as the rough-terrain range for rapid maintenance without the need for external tools. Launch of the MT 625e electric telehandler Manitou Group is also adding to its range of compact forklifts with the commercial launch of its first 100% electric compact telehandler. The MT 625e, with a capacity of 2.5tons and a height of 6 meters, guarantees performance as good as the internal combustion version and is the same size. Fitted with a 25 or 33kWh lithium-ion battery, this model reduces maintenance by 56% and drastically reduces the total cost of ownership for the user. Perfect for indoor or city center use or for renovating historic buildings, the MT 625e benefits like all the models in the compact telehandler range from the Safety Pack and the Harmony screen for safe and easy use. A new range of electric rotating telehandlers: 2 models, 6 versions The Group is presenting an electric version of the rotating telehandler models MRT 2260e and MRT 2660e from the recent VISION+ range. With a loading capacity of 6 tons for a lifting height of 22 meters and 26 meters respectively, these models enjoy the same performance level as the internal combustion models, even allowing simultaneous boom movements. The 700 V/65 kWh lithium-ion battery ensures optimum use of these models, even in difficult climate conditions like in Northern Europe. In order to boost the range by an additional 4 hours, a second 700 V/65 kWh battery can be added. Users have a third option with a hybrid version of these models using a range extender. This configuration improves flexibility, in particular to make long journeys between two sites or to charge the battery on sites that do not always have electric charge points. There are also several charging mode options on these two models, with an on-board 11 kW charger for charging in 4 hours 30 minutes, and an on-board 22 kW charger that takes just 2 hours 15 minutes. An even quicker solution is available to users with another on- board charger that allows charging in under an hour. Please note that the charging source must be 400 VAC. With these options, the Group is offering greater flexibility to operators according to their needs. Four new mid-height telehandlers In order to harmonize its mid-height range, the Group is launching four new internal combustion models with between 7meters and 13meters of lifting height for a lifting capacity of 3.5 tons, namely MT 735, MT 935, MT 1135 and MT 1335.The 11 meters and 13 meters models are available with two transmission versions, torque converter or hydrostatic, to meet the different needs of users. Two engines are also available for these same models, a 75 hp version or a 100 hp version. These telehandlers are thus equipped with the same dashboard as the rest of the range, with a Harmony screen, as well as the option to move its control buttons to near the armrest (Double Switch Buttons). These four models have a new cab for enhanced panoramic visibility, with a new windshield positioned even lower to better see the load when the boom is lowered and to make fitting of attachments easier. A new narrower, sturdier floating forks carriage has been designed as well to optimize visibility with the boom lowered. This carriage has been designed to be compatible with the 14 meters and 18 meters high models, again to harmonize the range. A new roof grille with sloping blades completes these innovations, this time improving visibility of the load regardless of its position. Fitted with a more spacious cab, these models remain relatively compact with an overall width of 2.28 meters, including the front stabilizers (for models MT 1135 and MT 1335), making them ideal for use in tight spaces. To ensure safe loading/unloading by truck, these four models can be transported in a container without having to remove the wheels. A fork attachment system is also available on these new models. These models offer a high level of performance with the presence of the Autopower system (available on the hydrostatic transmission models) for adapting the engine speed automatically from the joystick during boom movements, without needing to use the accelerator pedal. As with all products launched by the Group, all of these new models are connected as standard. The MT 1335 is available in an “HA” (hydrostatic access) version, meaning that it is compatible with a platform basket only with hydrostatic transmission. Like all the models in the range, these new models are fitted as standard with an automatic parking brake, an Easy Step (cut-out floor) to make getting in and out of the cab easier, and an orange seat belt to make it easy to see whether the driver is respecting the safety measures. The MT 1135 and MT 1335 models also come with a leveling corrector for even safer driving. Innovations have also been made to reduce the total cost of ownership, with centralized lubrication at the back of the machine, and quick access to the boom components on the rear. All of these models are also available with the Start & Stop option. Intended for the North American and European markets, the first models will be delivered by the end of 2023. The new ULM/GCT ultra-compact telehandler! Launched this year, the ultra-compact ULM (Ultra Light Manitou)/GCT (Gehl Compact Telehandler) telehandler meets the expectations of users who want an easy-to- handle machine that can be easily transported between sites. With a transportable weight of less than 3 tons, this model can be loaded onto a trailer with a GVW of 3,500 kg. At 1.49 meter wide and 1.92 meter high, its dimensions are among the most compact on the market, making it easy to use in tight spaces, and particularly for entering buildings or maneuvering on renovation sites, for handling pallets of concrete blocks or bricks. The ULM/CGT is available in two versions, with a lifting capacity of 1.25 ton and 1.5 ton respectively and a lifting height of 4.30 meters. For increased safety, the visibility at maximum height has been optimized, as Camille Rouvrais, Product Manager, explains: “We worked with our design office to find an innovative solution that provides even more safety and comfort. We replaced the roof grille with a transparent, shock-resistant polycarbonate window, which complies perfectly with the requirements of the FOPS standard”. The visibility improvements also apply to the operator’s lateral view. The side view is in fact very clear because of the position of the hydraulic hoses inside the boom and the engine cover positioned low down to the right of the operator. A number of innovative features help to reduce the total cost of ownership of this model. The Stop & Start option ensures a reduction in the TCO of around €10 per hour idling (reduced machine depreciation, fuel consumption and preventive maintenance). One of the most extensive articulated loaders ranges on the market With 12 new models, Manitou Group has extended its range of articulated loaders, which now comprises 22 models, all available under the Gehl AL (Articulated Loader) and Manitou MLA (Manitou Loader Articulated) brands. These new products offer a load capacity ranging from 700 kg to 1.5 ton for a lifting height of between 2.50 meters for a short arm and 3.07 meters for a long arm. In order to offer a level of performance adapted to each model, series 2 and 3 models are equipped with a 25 hp stage V engine, and series 4 and 5 with 48 hp. The complete range makes it possible to respond to very wide-ranging demands, with the largest of the articulated loaders providing a nominal load capacity of up to 3.3 tons. New models have been specifically designed for construction (AL 320/MLA 3-25 H-C and AL 420/MLA 4-50 H-C) for handling pallets of materials, on urban sites where compactness is a must. The Manitou MLA 2-25 H and Gehl AL 230 models have a hydraulic motor on each wheel to make these small machines even more maneuverable in any environment. To facilitate the movement of these loaders between different work sites, the models are also transportable on a 3,500 kg GVW trailer, which can be used with a basic BE license. The weight ranges from 1.5 ton for series 2 to 2.6 tons for series 5 models. This advantage allows the Group to adapt to the constraints of rental companies and tradespeople, who have to move their handling equipment very frequently within a very short time frame. A new range of heavy load telehandlers The new MHT range has been designed to handle heavy and bulky loads, on all types of terrain, in complete safety. Its performance has been greatly improved with capacities from 9 to 33 tons, for a working height of up to 12 meters. Ergonomics have been enhanced with a comfortable and easy-to-reach operator’s station with wide, non slip steps, a large door and the “Easy Step” floor cut-out that allows safe entry and exit to the cab. The new Manitou JSM joystick now incorporates a capacitive system for automatic and precise detection of the operator’s hand for safe working. Among the models in the range, the group is presenting at Bauma the new MHT-X 11250 mining version with a lifting height of 11 meters for a maximum load of up to 25 tons. This versatile model has been designed for safe handling of heavy, bulky loads, particularly for mining maintenance activities. The ergonomics have been improved with a comfortable, easy-access driver’s cab with wide non-slip steps and a wide door. Fitted with a hydraulic system providing a 275 l/min flow rate and a load detection pump, the MHT-X 11250 guarantees a very high productivity level. It should be noted that the engine speed adapts automatically to the needs of the transmission thanks to the Eco-Mode system that can be activated from the cab, thus reducing fuel consumption during travel. A new modeling tool To continue developing its range of services, Manitou Group is launching the modeling of its Manitou products for the construction market. Available worldwide (French and English) in the BIM library via the manitou.com website, BIM architects, modelers and designers can easily introduce Manitou machines into their work environments during construction projects. BIM (Building Information Modeling) refers to the tools for modeling construction information, encompassing every phase of a project, from design through to deconstruction. This modeling provides users with a totally immersive experience, helping them to make decisions and streamline costs. This database is free of charge and easily accessible: just create an account to access all the 3D models. Arnaud Boyer, VP Marketing & Product Development for Manitou Group, sheds light on the implementation of this new service: “Our digital transformation is accelerating and should enable our customers to improve efficiency on their sites. That’s why Manitou offers dynamic files in BIM format, which are part of a collaborative approach to project development.” Reviv’oil: a new service for customers This year, Manitou Group is launching a new program intended to prevent hydraulic breakdowns. This program, christened Reviv’oil, involves filtering the hydraulic oil. To facilitate this, all latest-generation machines (with a capacity of more than 50L hydraulic) have a predisposed tank. Easy to implement with special tooling, this service is carried out in the workshops by engineers from the Manitou dealer network. The ultimate aim is to avoid machine downtime and thus reduce the user’s total cost of ownership.... Read more...Thwaites Show 3-tonne Electric Dumper at BAUMA 22.27 October 2022EventsBritish dumper manufacturer Thwaites is set to show, at the forthcoming BAUMA event, an all-new, all electric 3-tonne dumper. The machine has been designed with contractors and hirers in mind, offering the same build quality, robust design and engineering excellence that is ubiquitous across the Thwaites range. The 3-tonne electric machine being displayed at BAUMA, will be an advanced concept machine, with the go to market version being available in 2023. Thwaites General Sales Manager, Andy Sabin said, “As the demand for cleaner alternative fuel sources grows, we are keen to ensure we offer a quality product that delivers for our customers, their clients and the environment”. Four maintenance free, long-life, lithium-ion (dry-cell) batteries, operating at 48V, are fitted. Each battery is rated at 5.75kWh, providing the power to drive the machine. With two highly efficient electric motors (one for traction, one for the hydraulic services) giving the operator the control and manoeuvrability expected from a Thwaites dumper. The electric drive dumper has a similar unladen weight when compared to the diesel/hydrostatic version. The main battery pack and driveline components, now sit low in the rear chassis, lowering the centre of gravity when compared to the hydrostatic drive machine, further improving machine stability. Critically, the battery pack will complete a full 8-hour shift of `normal site operation’ from a single charge. The standard on-board 3.4kW battery charger can charge the pack from 0-100% in 8hrs. Optional off-board chargers rated at 7kW (single-phase) and 22kW (three-phase) have charge times of 4hrs and 2hrs respectively. Andy Sabin concluded “We are delighted to be able to offer this all electric 3-tonne dumper for consideration at this year’s BAUMA event. Available for both the UK and export market, the machine will provide for the rental market, a cleaner, quieter, alternative, giving contractors options to use the machine in more urban refurbishment settings. In addition, the new, all electric dumper is compliant with the growing number of authorities and bodies that operate low emission zones”. For visitors to BAUMA Thwaites can be found on stand number FN 1018-10.... Read more...Bobcat Showcases Equipment of the Future at Bauma 202226 October 2022EventsBobcat is using Bauma 2022 as a platform to provide attendees with a glimpse of the machinery of tomorrow. A comprehensive showcase of the manufacturer’s new and existing equipment is on display at the Bobcat stand (FN.817), with focuses including electrification, digitization, autonomous operations and a host of other exciting innovations and concepts. Scott Park, Doosan Bobcat CEO, commented: “Our innovations stem from the need to drive efficiency, productivity and sustainability. We innovate not for the sake of innovating but to create value for our customers, their communities and our planet as a whole. Bobcat continues to evolve in bold ways, empowering our customers to overcome even the toughest challenges while delivering solutions that are contributing to a more sustainable future.” Bauma 2022, the 33rd edition of the global trade fair, is taking place in Munich, Germany. In addition to its impressive stand display, Bobcat is participating in this year’s Bauma FORUM, a series of international lectures and discussions exploring the construction methods and materials of tomorrow; the path to autonomous machines; sustainable, efficient and reliable mining; digital construction sites; and the road to zero emissions. As part of the FORUM, Bobcat’s Vice President of Global Innovation, Joel Honeyman, will present ‘Leading the Charge: Bobcat T7X transforming the jobsite with sustainable solutions’ at 4:30 pm CET on Friday, 28th October 2022 in the Innovation Hall Bauma LAB0 (ICM – International Congress Center Messe München). T7X: The World’s First All-Electric Compact Track Loader The T7X – the world’s first all-electric compact track loader – is one of several electrification developments being showcased at Bobcat’s Bauma 2022 stand. The T7X boasts a rated operating capacity of 1374 kg and zero CO2 emissions. Its load-sensing power management system, which automatically adjusts output in line with the task being performed, helps to maximize battery life. Thanks to the ability to vary drive speed while at full torque, operators can manually tune the T7X’s performance for specific applications. As a result, the machine does not consume any power when idling, removing one of the equipment sector’s most common causes of energy wastage. Sporting a 60,5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which can deliver four hours of continuous use, the machine has been designed to reduce emissions and noise levels without forfeiting performance. Another feature that distinguishes the T7X from every other loader on the planet is the fact that it contains almost no fluids. The machine’s traditional hydraulic work group has been completely replaced with an electrical drive system, comprising electric cylinders and drive motors. This means the only fluid found inside a T7X is eco-friendly coolant. S76: A Quad-track Skid Steer That’s Aware of Its Surroundings Bauma 2022 attendees will also have the opportunity to check out an alternative version of the Bobcat S76, where the wheels of this skid-steer loader have been replaced with four individual track pods, effectively converting it into a tracked loader. This innovative configuration adds considerable versatility to the model, allowing it to adapt to a broad array of work environments with ease. The resultant benefits include increased flotation, reduced ground pressure and improved traction on wet terrains compared to conventional wheeled skid-steer loaders, as well as a smoother ride than traditional two-track loaders. The S76 on display at Bauma has also been equipped with a cutting-edge object-avoidance radar system, which is capable of stopping, derating and alerting the operator with either visual or audible warnings, and can be fitted to any machine (whether electronically or manually controlled). This technology has been developed by Bobcat in partnership with Ainstein, a US-headquartered company that manufactures state-of-the-art imaging radar sensors similar to those found on high-end automobiles and agricultural equipment. Bobcat’s Quad-track concept was selected as a finalist in the Mechanical Engineering category of the Bauma 2022 Innovation Awards. E35: A Mini-Excavator That Makes Any Operator Look Like a Pro The 3.5-tonne machine features an electro-hydraulic control system rather than conventional hydraulic joysticks, meaning it can be customized and programmed to suit all levels of operator skill. Thanks to its integrated sensors, the model can perform a variety of semi-automated tasks, helping users to conduct precise grading, levelling and trenching activities in addition to other repetitive operations such as return-to-dig movements. The Bobcat team is on hand to demonstrate how the sensor-enabled, electro-hydraulic control concept adds value for operators, helping them to be more accurate and productive regardless of their experience. Achieve Full Transparency on the Jobsite In addition to upcoming and existing models, Bobcat is demonstrating a range of its latest technological innovations at Bauma 2022. Transparent display concepts developed in conjunction with LG Electronics and BSI Research represent a key focus. One such system, which takes advantage of OLED tech, has been fitted to a Bobcat TL43.80HF telehandler. Integrated within the glass structure of the cab, this innovation reduces blind spots for operators, enhancing productivity, efficiency and visibility while allowing them to see over the boom with ease. This display can be embedded in the front windshields or side windows of a range of Bobcat models, including mini-excavators and loaders as well as telehandlers. Bobcat is also using Bauma 2022 to showcase its T-OLED touchscreen, another advance in transparent display technology that gives operators the ability to touch and customize their user interface with smart widgets and interactive applications. This transparent, multifunction set-up, which is being demoed on a static stand inside Bobcat’s main tent, delivers jobsite-specific data, providing vital information and machine insights for users in real-time. Moreover, thanks to its transparent nature, operators can simply refocus their vision to see everything that is going on around them on site. Commenting on the novel concepts, Vijay Nerva, Head of Innovation and Acceleration, Doosan Bobcat EMEA, said: “These transparent displays are among the most advanced technologies ever to be incorporated within our machines – or any machines, for that matter. They are offering attendees a glimpse of what Bobcat’s future in-cab experience will be like.” For more information about Bobcat and its products, visit www.bobcat.com.... Read more...Doosan Previews DX20ZE Electric Mini-Excavator at Bauma26 October 2022EventsDoosan is showing the new DX20ZE two tonne electric mini-excavator on the company’s stand at Bauma 2022. Due for full launch in 2023, the DX20ZE will be the first mass-produced electric excavator to be manufactured by Doosan. The DX20ZE combines its safe, low noise, zero-emission design with the successful features and high performance of the equivalent diesel-powered Doosan mini-excavator for working in confined spaces. Designed for Indoor and Other Zero Emission Work With a width of just 950 mm, the new DX20ZE can pass through narrow passages and entrances/exits, making it ideal for working in confined space indoor applications such as demolition and basement construction. With its compact dimensions, the DX20ZE is also an excellent solution for construction and rental companies operating in sensitive areas where low noise and/or night-time work is necessary. As well as indoor projects, these include city centre developments, night-time work and contracts in low noise areas such as hospitals, cemeteries, schools and so on. The DX20ZE is driven by a powerful, in-house developed 20 kWh Lithium ion battery pack, with all of the electrical system and components on the machine optimized for work in harsh environments. A quick-charger system restores 80% of the battery power after only one hour of charging, whilst the on-board charger restores the maximum charge after six hours of charging. Albert Roh, Product Director, Doosan Infracore Europe, said: “The DX20ZE is designed to meet a growing demand for electric machines. The reasons are obvious: not only to meet customers’ preference to be environmentally friendly, but also a clear and dedicated business need for zero emission and low noise excavators for some specific applications. The electric solution solves many of the issues associated with these tasks.” For more on Doosan construction equipment, please visit the website: www.eu.doosanequipment.com... Read more...Liebherr hydrogen excavator receives Bauma Innovation Award25 October 2022Events / NewsThe jury have made their decision: The 2022 Bauma Innovation Award in the climate protection category goes to the R 9XX H2 hydrogen excavator. This is the first Liebherr hydraulic excavator to be powered by a hydrogen engine. Suitable for use under extreme temperatures, shock, and high-dust conditions on construction sites, the 50 tonne-operating weight R 9XX H2 may in future offer a robust solution for earthworks and quarrying applications.Suitable for use under extreme temperatures, shock, and high-dust conditions on construction sites, the 50 tonne-operating weight R 9XX H2 may in future offer a robust solution for earthworks and quarrying applications. Working on alternative drive solutions, Liebherr takes a technology-neutral approach. Hydrogen combustion engines are one technology being explored by the Group. The R 9XX H2, Liebherr’s first hydrogen-powered crawler excavator, has now won the Bauma Innovation Award. The prototype was developed by Liebherr-France SAS, based in Colmar, France. The machine is powered by an H966 hydrogen combustion engine. It was produced at Liebherr Machines Bulle SA, the Liebherr Group’s engine competence centre in the Swiss canton of Fribourg. In terms of power, dynamics and responsiveness, the R 9XX H2 hydrogen excavator gives nothing away to any conventionally powered machine. Nor is it dependent on a continuous energy supply either. The emissions make the difference: On a “tank to wheel” basis, i.e. when used on a construction site, a hydrogen excavator emits almost no CO2. “Cradle to grave” or from production to decommissioning, CO2 emissions are 70% lower than those of comparable conventionally powered excavators. Suitable for use under extreme temperatures, shock, and high-dust conditions on construction sites, the 50 tonne-operating weight R 9XX H2 may in future offer a robust solution for earthworks and quarrying applications. The R 9XX H2 is powered by a Liebherr H966 hydrogen combustion engine. The engine has six cylinders and uses port fuel injection (PFI), which Liebherr employs along with direct injection (DI) for its hydrogen engines. Liebherr’s components product segment plans to start with the series production of hydrogen motors by 2025. The prototype six-cylinder H966 hydrogen engine is the heart of Liebherr’s first hydrogen-powered crawler excavator.The prototype six-cylinder H966 hydrogen engine is the heart of Liebherr’s first hydrogen-powered crawler excavator. Visitors to the Bauma fair in Munich can experience the Liebherr R9XX H2 hydrogen excavator live from 24 to 30 October 2022. The excavator is part of a machine show at the Liebherr booth in the outdoor area, where the company is exhibiting a variety of machines and prototypes with alternative drive systems. The booth even offers a hands-on encounter with the second prototype of the H966 hydrogen combustion engine. It can be found in the “InnovationLab”, an exhibition area devoted to Liebherr’s open approach to alternative drive concepts. Another four-cylinder prototype of a 4-cylinder hydrogen engine, the H964 with direct injection (DI), can be seen at the Liebherr Components booth 326 in hall A4. The Bauma Innovation Award rewarding innovation 2022 sees the thirteenth presentation of the Bauma Innovation Award. Its five categories – climate protection, digitalisation, mechanical engineering, building and research – reflect political, social, economic and ecological challenges. The expert jury’s focus on criteria such as practical orientation, economic potential, environmental protection aspects, resource conservation, efficiency and humanisation the workplace. The prize is awarded by Messe München and the German Mechanical Engineering Industry Association (VDMA), together with the Federation of the German Construction Industry (HDB), the German Construction Confederation (ZDB) and the German Building Materials Federation (bbs).... Read more...Faresin Industries at BAUMA 2022: INNOVATION SUSTAINABILITY POWER25 October 2022EventsThe Italian company comes to this edition of the prestigious international exhibition with a formidable and complete range of telehandlers that represent the state of the art in the industry. Machines born for the construction site that incorporate all the innovation and smart solutions that Faresin Industries introduces to the market. Technologies designed to make operators’ work smarter and more efficient that are designed and manufactured in the Breganze plant with the aim of constantly raising the bar of performance and offering cutting-edge construction solutions. At Bauma Faresin will present the latest innovations dedicated to the world of construction and industry. The Vicenza-based brand thus follows the innovation path at the service of the customer that includes, for each season, the introduction of new models able to respond in a timely manner to the evolving demand. BAUMA 2022 will also be an opportunity for the world premiere of a new FULL ELECTRIC telehandler that takes its place in perhaps the most important segment for lifting activities for construction and industry. It is the 17.45 Full Electric from the new Big Range Full Electric range, a machine with construction in its DNA. New Big Range FULL ELECTRIC – 17.45 FULL ELECTRIC SUSTAINABILITY GOES BIG, STRONG & HIGH The FULL ELECTRIC you didn’t expect. A telehandler designed for the modern construction site that can deliver similar performance to machines with endothermic engines and an indispensable partner in areas with eco-sensitive regulations. BORN TO WORK AT HEIGHT. The Big Range FULL ELECTRIC series is presented at Bauma with the new 17.45 FULL ELECTRIC, the world’s first electric telehandler with a maximum lifting height of 17m and a maximum lifting capacity of 4.5 tons. Its front outriggers ensure high performance and great stability on any type of terrain when lifting and handling at high altitudes. SMART POWER. At the heart of the new telehandler is a 45.36 kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack at 435 V that powers two electric motors: one, 51 kW, for transmission; the other, 23 kW, dedicated to services. The power is delivered as needed thanks to a made-in-Faresin process that avoids wasted energy in favor of charge duration. Thanks to this “smart” power, performing the Big Range FULL ELECTRIC is absolutely comparable to that achieved with diesel engines. The numbers speak: peak pulling force 44.3 kN; top speed 25 km/h. UNIVERSAL CHARGE. The asymmetrical availability of different power systems has always been a weakness of electrified construction vehicles. For the Big Range FULL ELECTRIC, this problem becomes history. In fact, the onboard system allows batteries to be recharged with absolute flexibility, thanks to a single plug interface for 220V single-phase and 400V three-phase power supplies such as for the fast-charging column. FULL RANGE. The new Big Range Full Electric series, like its diesel-powered twin, includes 3 models: 14.42 Full Electric, with a capacity of 4.2 tons and a maximum lifting height of 14 meters;17.40 Full Electric, with a capacity of 4 tons and a maximum lifting height of 17 meters;17.45 Full Electric, with a capacity of 4.5 tons and a maximum lifting height of 17 meters. The Big Range series kicks off the successful fulfillment of the FARESIN FULL ELECTRIC line-up, which began in 2018 with the 6.26 telehandler, also a world-first. A new and important step along the strategic axis of sustainable innovation, which drives the Faresin Industries brand’s path of constant growth and improvement. FS 9.32 Compact Faresin presented at Bauma another new model of the Next Generation of telehandlers. The FS 9.32 Compact is the big brother of the FS 7.32 Compact, which will also be on show at the Faresin stand. A maximum lifting capacity of 3.2 tons and a lifting height of up to 9 m are the numbers that define this powerful and versatile machine. The longer boom, consisting of two extending sections, ensures greater capacity in absolute safety. This new model embodies all the features of the new FS Compact series, which sets a new standard in the Compact segment. A series designed from the ground up in order to meet an increasingly evolved demand to the growing environmental awareness in all sectors. The new FS range was born predisposed towards future developments in interconnection and “internet of things” and is characterized by an innovative design that started from a Faresin R&D idea and was developed in collaboration with prestigious specialized studies and partners at the forefront of executive technology. Lowered and tilted to sloping over the right front wheel, the new hood establishes a new level of visibility for telehandlers. The hydraulic part is the real muscle of the machine and is oversized to guarantee versatility of use, with flow rates ranging from 120 to 180 liters/min, depending on the set-up, capable of ensuring extremely fast work cycles. FS 7.32 Compact The first born in the Next Generation of Faresin telehandlers, the FS 7.32 Compact also makes its debut at Bauma. The FS 7.32 is an innovative machine that sets a new standard in the Compact segment thanks to its completely redesigned cab, longitudinal engine layout, and hydraulic power that ensures fast work cycles and smooth, precise movements. A true “systemic” response that brings FS Compact to the top of its segment because it affects all major machine functions and puts the operator at the center, the link between the machine, its management and functional and service control The maximum lifting capacity is 3.2 tons and the maximum attainable height is 7.1 m. Further characterizing data are: a steering angle of 37°, turning radius of only 3.8 m, wheelbase of 2.95 m, width of 2.10 m and minimum height of 2.06 m. Measures that make this model a champion of great performance with unique agility, important stability and sought-after versatility. 6.26 FULL ELECTRIC Faresin’s 6.26 FULL ELECTRIC telescopic handler is rapidly conquering the global market and returns to Bauma completely renewed, after debuting in the last edition in 2019. Thanks to this telehandler, presented in 2018 at Eima as the first electric in the world, Faresin is in a position of competitive advantage over the top players in the sector. Agile, quiet, and sustainable. Faresin 6.26 Full Electric telehandler is suitable for any type of usage, thanks to its 2.6 ton lifting capacity and a maximum height reach of 6m. Twin of the diesel-powered version, it was created to be the equivalent eco-friendly alternative. Faresin’s 6.26 Full Electric is intended for use where emissions and noise must be limited, such as construction sites at night, zero-emission residential areas, livestock farms, greenhouses, and food handling areas such as cold rooms, wine cellars, food laboratories, etc. Faresin has equipped its FULL ELECTRIC telehandler with two synchronous electric motors powered by lithium batteries, available in three versions: 24 kW/h (315 Ah), 32 kW/h (420 Ah) and 43 kW/h (560 Ah). Faresin also offers a new Fast charge onboard system that fully recharges the battery in just two and a half hours. 6.26 Classic 52 The 6.26 Classic 52 telehandler from the Small Range, is the most compact version of the Faresin telehandlers. Best seller of the Vicenza-based brand, this machine is a true all-rounder in every situation, from construction site use to industry. Its minute dimensions, less than two meters in width and height, make it always agile and maneuverable in any environment, even in very tight spaces. The Faresin small telehandler has a capacity of 2.6 tons and can reach a lifting height of 6 m. A turning radius of only 3.25m and three steering modes make the 6.26 a champion of maneuverability. The 70-hp Stage V engine allows the machine to reach up to 30 km/h and the 80-l gear pump allows simultaneous boom movements to increase productivity. 17.40 Classic 55 The 17.40 telehandler from the Big Range reaches very high heights thanks to the front outriggers and the long boom, composed of three sections, reaching up to 17 meters with a load capacity of up to 4 tons. The model on show will feature a 55 kW Deutz Stage V engine, which ensures low fuel consumption, great performance and ease of maintenance, thanks to its longitudinal layout and the absence of AdBlue for the exhaust gas after-treatment system. The hydrostatic transmission makes the machine even easier to use and perform in both precision and heavy-duty work. 10.70 Classic 75 The 10.70 Classic 75 telehandler from the Heavy Duty Range series offers outstanding strength for intensive work, lifting extremely heavy loads (7 tons). The machine features a hydrostatic transmission with a two-speed, four-mode mechanical gearbox that provides a maximum speed of 40km/h. Then, thanks to a 150-liter/min load-sensing pump and hydraulic regenerative system, it ensures high performance in boom handling with low engine speed and maximum control of movements even with heavy loads.... Read more...The Bauma kick-off has taken place!25 October 2022Events / Wheeled ExcavatorsBauma 2022 opened its doors today and the Wacker Neuson booth saw its first world premiere: the new EW100 wheeled excavator. This machine marks the dawn of a new era for compact wheeled excavators in terms of performance, safety, efficiency and ease of operation. The development of the machine focused on Construction Site 4.0: intelligent attachment management, a well thought-out human-machine interface and preparation for various assistance systems and interfaces are just a few examples. The EW100 wheeled excavator is one of the stars of the Wacker Neuson demo show, which you can already watch in video here: More information at: www.wackerneuson.com/bauma... Read more...NEW RECYCLING MATERIAL HANDLER WITH 12 M REACH: SENNEBOGEN 824 G SERIES25 October 2022RecyclingThe SENNEBOGEN 821 E, with its operating weight of approx. 24 tons and a reach of 12 m, has been shaping the machine landscape in waste recycling for years. It is precisely this machine, which can be universally used for recycling, that the developers at SENNEBOGEN have set out to transform into a new generation of machines. True to the motto “Try new things, make tried-and-tested things even better”, the 824 G series now impresses with increased performance and even lower fuel consumption. UNIVERSAL RECYCLING MATERIAL HANDLER WITH IMPRESSIVE SERVICE CONCEPT The new 824 G series serves the smaller material handler segment and, with its reach of 12 m and the wide range of different equipment options, proves to be a versatile all-rounder in the recycling or scrap yard. Whether equipped with crawler or mobile undercarriage, equipment lengths from 10 to 12 m and/or ULM rod variants – equipment with a special deflection mechanism for sorting grabs – the 824G can be used to implement a wide variety of application-specific solutions. In addition to sorting activities, the robust machine is thus also perfect for loading tasks and can cope with demanding continuous use in challenging working environments, such as high dust levels, heat or extreme weather. The new SENNEBOGEN 824 G impresses with increased performance and low consumption in recycling or scrap. The newly implemented service concept of the SENNEBOGEN G series, with clear and simplified access to service points such as the central lubrication system and tanks, makes everyday maintenance easier. Further technological innovations also ensure that the service intervals have been extended once again. LOAD CAPACITIES INCREASED BY MORE THAN 10 PERCENT The load capacities of the SENNEBOGEN 824 G have also been increased by more than 10 percent compared to its predecessor. This means that the machine not only lifts more, but can also handle more material per work cycle with the right equipment. The machine also has a highly efficient and environmentally friendly Stage V diesel engine with 118 kW of power. By rightsizing the engine, which now runs at a speed of 1,725 rpm as standard, both noise emissions and the consumption of the machine have been reduced, thereby also sustainably reducing operating costs. Special eco-settings as well as large-scale lines and hydraulic valves relieve the pressure on the pump system, ensure optimal efficiency and make the material handler particularly efficient and resource-saving overall. MEMORY-BASED OPERATOR PROFILES SAVE TIME With the consistently enhanced machine concept, the 824G impresses as another representative of the 6th generation thanks to excellent responsiveness, making sensitive sorting work at the recycling or scrap yard child’s play in the future. Thanks to the state-of-the-art control technology of the latest machine generation, the working clearance of the machine is perfectly coordinated: combined or overlapping movements with optimal swivel speeds enable fast working processes without having to compromise on precision. Thanks to the memory-based operator profiles, where the hydraulics can be adjusted precisely to the respective operator, valuable time can also be saved at the start of the shift when changing operators. NEW COMFORT CAB AND SAFETY FEATURES In addition to numerous optimizations in terms of seating comfort, air conditioning and control panel, the spacious Maxcab now offers even more options for making day-to-day work particularly comfortable and safe. The large window elements provide a clear view to the front and sides. The windscreen is even made of bulletproof glass as standard, providing optimal protection for the operator. The new elevating cab, which is also installed as standard, is not only even higher than before with a height adjustment of 2.80 m, but is also particularly robust and stable in dynamic use. It allows an eye height of up to 3 m and thus an optimal overview or a direct view into the shredder or scrap press. An extensive camera system and intelligent control and diagnostic systems also provide support in the daily handling of the machine. The new SENtrack telematic system is also installed as standard, providing the most important machine data such as maintenance requirements, utilization, fuel consumption and hydraulic pressures in a user-friendly manner, thus facilitating service management of the machine or the entire fleet The new elevating cab with its height-adjustment capability of 2.80 m is not only even higher than before, but also particularly robust and stable for dynamic uses. PREMIERE AT BAUMA 2022 IN MUNICH The SENNEBOGEN 824 G will be premiered at bauma 2022. Experience the new machine live at the SENNEBOGEN stand at the FM.712 open-air site, Messe München. MACHINE IN USE Reach:up to 12 m Show details... Read more...Bobcat Unwraps 2-Tonne Electric Mini-Excavator at Bauma25 October 2022EventsBobcat has introduced a new 2-tonne mini-excavator to supplement its ever-expanding range of electrically powered machines. The E19e–an electric version of Bobcat’s popular E19 internal-combustion(IC)model–offers zero emissions, low-noise operation and comparable levels of performance to its diesel-powered counterpart. The new machine was unveiled during a special launch event at the manufacturer’s stand on the opening day of Bauma 2022, which is currently taking place inMunich, Germany. Scott Park, Doosan Bobcat CEO, commented: “With the introduction of theE19e, Bobcat has expanded its electric line-up of zero emission and quiet machines that can match the excellent performance of our conventional models. This unit will build on the success of our smaller E10e, the world’s first electric mini-excavator, which we first presented in Bauma 2016 and launched commercially during Bauma 2019.” “Asa pioneer in the field of battery-powered equipment, Bobcat innovations have helped to drive an industry-wide shift towards electric construction equipment,”ScottPark continued. “Our team is proud of its contributions to this segment to date, and we will continue to invest in research and development to further accelerate this important trend.” Clean and Quiet Operations The Bobcat E19e features the same profile, external dimensions and comparable performance as the popular E19 mini-excavator, more than 10,000of which have been sold worldwide.TheE19e boasts the same stability, lift capacity and breakout forces as its conventional counterpart, while its constant torque curve(a feature of electric motors) ensures dependable and powerful operations. With a width of just98cm, the new electric model is easy to operate in even the most confined workspaces, making it ideal for tasks such as demolition as well as outside applications that require quiet, zero-emission operations. Designed around the needs of the operator, with more space between its consoles, the E19e offers best-in-class levels of comfort. With well-located travel pedals and joysticks, including thumb controls for the AUX1and boom-swing functions, all controls have been placed at the operator’s fingertips.The introduction of foldable travel pedals and the absence of floor-mountedAUX1and boom-swing offset pedals have served to maximize legroom.In addition to delivering a healthier and more comfortable work environment, the E19e’slow-noise, zero-emission operations also facilitate communication and productivity on the job site. The E19e features a 3.5-hour battery capacity and can be recharged quickly using a super-fast charger. This means that by topping up the power during work breaks, the machine can be used all day for the majority of typical applications. The E19e is also immensely versatile, with a wide array of compatible attachments available. Bobcat’s hydraulic clamp attachment, for example, is unique in the market for this size category. Built for Reliability and Longevity Thanks to the years of research and development involved in its creation, the E19e is a truly dependable machine. Fully validated and tested by Bobcat using proven components from the smaller E10e, its premium battery features technology equivalent to that employed by the world’s leading electric automakers. The E19e is powered by a 17.3 kWh battery, which is larger than the E10e’s 11.5kWh power source. It also produces very low noise levels on site, with anLpA (operator noise) of only 70dBA, 9dBA less than the diesel-powered E19. The model’s electrical system and components have been optimized for work in harsh environments and, owing to the use of low voltages only (the same as the E10e),the 2-tonne mini-excavator is safe and easy to maintain. It also comes with a full manufacturer’s warranty from Bobcat, providing peace of mind to fleet owners and end users. Miroslav Konas, Mini-Excavator Product Manager, Doosan Bobcat EMEA, concluded:“ TheE19e electric mini-excavator combines a safe, nearly silent, zero-emission design with the E19’s market-leading features and performance, as well as its suitability for working in confined spaces. As a result, it is the ideal machine for applications such as indoor and outdoor demolition, landscaping and infrastructure activities, and other tasks that necessitate night-time work or low noise levels. The E19e represents an extremely attractive solution for rental companies and contractors alike.” For more information on Bobcat and its products, visit www.bobcat.com... Read more...Merlo Group’s 2022-2025 Industrial Plan is driven by sustainability21 October 2022NewsMerlo Group’s goal is to exceed 10,000 telehandlers per year and develop further machines in the Generation Zero range, featuring zero fuel consumption, zero noise and zero emissions San Defendente di Cervasca (Cuneo, Italy) | 21/10/22 – At the end of 2021, Merlo (a leading global equipment manufacturer specialising in the development and production of telescopic handlers, tracked carriers, and more) launched the eWorker, the first fully-electric telehandler produced by Merlo. The eWorker was designed with an aim of producing a machine with zero adverse environmental impact, while looking to improve manoeuvrability, comfort and usability. The eWorker is the result of Merlo’s industrial growth plan for the four-year period between 2018 and 2021, which was characterised by a series of key investments from the business, bringing the total number of employees to 1,568 in 2021 (+34% in five years) and the total number of machines sold in 2021 to 7,200 globally. Today, Merlo’s 2022-2025 industrial plan continues with the message of “innovation through tradition” which has characterised Merlo’s history. As Merlo pushes toward 2025, the Group’s new target is to increase production capacity to 10,000 telehandlers per year(plus 25,000 genuine Merlo attachments), to improve aftersales and care to customers, from aftersales investments to advanced telemetry, spare parts, and more. In order to achieve these ambitious goals, Merlo has planned significant investments to open new production lines, including one dedicated to the fully-electric eWorker. Investments will concern both personnel and infrastructure, which will lay the foundation for the development of other machines in the Merlo Generation Zero range, achieving zero fuel consumption, zero noise, and zero emissions. Merlo’s 2022-2025 Industrial Plan includes also the final transition to Stage V engines for the entire product range (Telehandlers, Cingo and TreEmme) across global markets. The assembly and cab manufacturing areas will be completely redesigned, along with the assembly and painting lines. Additionally, the cab welding area will be redeveloped to become fully automated. As Merlo pushes towards the latest redevelopment of this historic factory, or Factory 4.0, new developments will also drive forward internal logistics, with the goal of launching a bespoke management software, fully integrated with suppliers and distributors. New products and a redesign of the Merlo factory will go hand-in-hand with Merlo’s increased emphasis on sustainable production as part of the 2022-2025 plan. By the end of the year, Merlo Group will complete a three-year project, installing solar panels across the roofs of the three production facilities which make up the Merlo Factory (Merlo SpA, TECNO and TreEmme). These solar panels have already generated over 747kW of power. In the new production areas of the factory, insulation has been improved to minimise energy loss. Merlo’s reduced environmental impact is also being focussed on, with the introduction of more than 30 cardboard and plastic compactors, which, together with new policies on offcut and sheet metal recovery, will increase the recycling capacity of the Merlo Factory significantly. To reduce energy waste, lighting and heating automation is being rolled out across the new Merlo Factory buildings, with the aim of reducing out-of-hours usage. Finally, the Merlo Group is gradually revamping its production equipment, investing in more efficient solutions in terms of energy consumption, transport time, and labour requirements. New Merlo products will be showcased at upcoming international trade shows, Bauma in Munich (24-30 October), Sima in Paris (6-10 November), and Eima in Bologna (9-13 November).... Read more...WRAPS COME OFF HYDROGEN REFUELLER AS JCB UNVEILS INDUSTRY FIRST21 October 2022MachineJCB, developer of the world’s first working construction machines powered by hydrogen, today unveiled another world first for the industry – a mobile hydrogen refueller. JCB is investing £100 million in a project to produce super-efficient hydrogen engines and has already showcased working prototypes of a backhoe loader and Loadall telescopic handler powered by hydrogen. Today the company announced another industry first – a mobile hydrogen refueller, providing a quick and easy way for customers to refuel their machines on site. Around 97 per cent of construction machines have fuel delivered to them while working on site. This means customers are already used to a transportable fuel, allowing refuelling to take place in a matter of minutes. JCB Chairman Lord Bamford, who is leading JCB’s hydrogen project, said: “Since we became the first construction equipment company to unveil machines powered by hydrogen, many have asked how they can be refuelled. “Well today we have an answer with our new mobile hydrogen refuelling system, which allows hydrogen to be taken from on-site tube trailers and distributed to machines by our refueller as they work on the job site. This is no different to today when diesel is taken in bowsers to refuel machines. “Fossil fuels are not the future and hydrogen is the practical solution to powering our machines in the decades to come. Our British engineers are doing a fantastic job in developing this technology and there are many more exciting developments to come.” A team of 100 engineers is working on the project. The first hydrogen powered machine to be unveiled was a JCB backhoe loader followed, a year ago, by a Loadall telescopic handler. The technology went on to be shown in the Green Zone at COP26 in Glasgow as world leaders debated measures to drastically reduce greenhouse emissions. JCB has manufactured engines since 2004, producing them at plants in Derbyshire and in Delhi, India. Last year JCB celebrated a major milestone with the production of its 750,000th engine.... Read more...Bauma’s here – and it’s all about Y.O.U.!!21 October 2022EventsThe show in Munich will see two great events from the leader in compact equipment – the launch of the Yanmar Operators United club and the 90 Second Skills Challenge! With momentum building thanks to a much talked about teaser campaign, this month’s bauma will see the much-anticipated Yanmar Operators’ United Club open its doors for business! Y.O.U. Club for short, is a celebration of compact equipment life among the Yanmar-loving community. Open to all Yanmar machine operators – even occasional users – members will become part of a family of operators and enjoy gifts, dedicated Y.O.U. merchandise collection, events and competitions. Initially targeting operators in Europe, Y.O.U. enthusiasts will also have their own dedicated area at bauma, complete with reception desk, bar and hang-out area. There is even a Y.O.U. app. Available in English, French, German and Italian, the app can be accessed on any smartphone and contains exclusive club content, quizzes and access to a wide community of fellow Yanmar enthusiasts’ comments, pictures and videos. As their membership rises through the ranks of bronze, silver and gold Members are also rewarded for their input with gifts. A minute-and-a-half never felt so short!Operators aren’t just welcomed on the Yanmar stand – they are the stars of the show! One of the fun activities – open to Y.O.U. members and all enthusiasts – is the 90 Second Challenge. This will see contestants skilfully use a Yanmar SV19vt mini excavator to tackle a grapple and use it to grapple a puzzle! They will need to keep a clear head, though, as moving the four pieces of the puzzle will take concentration, skill, speed and all the dexterity of the Yanmar machine! Prizes will go to the top two on the leader board every day – with gifts including Fitbit smartwatches and Nintendo Switches. There’s lots of fun going on in Munich with Yanmar CE this week – we’re open house to all operators!... Read more...Blue Machinery expand Terex Washing Systems agreement across the UK21 October 2022News / RecyclingBlue Machinery (Southern) and Blue Machinery (Central) will join Blue Machinery (Scotland) in distributing Terex Washing Systems standard products within their territories, in parallel with Terex Washing Systems ‘Factory Direct Selling’ approach for ‘project’ sales. This will provide the customer base with a best of both worlds approach to their sand and aggregate processing equipment needs. Terex Washing Systems (TWS) is the premier provider of advanced plant solutions for material and mineral washing needs in aggregates, recycling, industrial sands and mining. With more than half a century of washing experience already under its belt and a proactive Research & Development team that never stands still, TWS have a proud history and heritage. Since Blue Scotland were appointed as dealers for the brand back in 2012, they have built a wealth of experience and expertise in the installation of wash plants, supplying solutions to customers including; Central Demolition, Miller Plant, Dolan Skips and many more. With Blue Southern and Blue Central joining Blue Scotland as a distributor, Blue will now be able to supply TWS standard equipment across England, Scotland and Wales. The agreement means that specialist ‘project sales for full solutions will be provided on a ‘Factory Direct’basis to the customer from Terex Washing Systems, ensuring sector leading applications knowledge is available directly to assist customers in technology selection and long-term plant efficiency. Sales of standard product within the TWS range will be supplied through Blue Machinery. Blue Machinery will offer nationwide support for the TWS brand, with their comprehensive network of field based serviced engineers working across the various Blue regional businesses. Blue Spares will also stock genuine, OEM TWS parts in both their Warrington and Stirling depots, meaning that customers can benefit from same day/next day delivery to keep them up and running. Commenting on the Blue partnership, Barry McMenamin, Terex Washing Systems Director, said: “We are delighted to welcome Blue Machinery (Southern) and Blue Machinery (Central) on board to supply our standard range of equipment throughout the UK. This partnership provides enhanced levels of sales, service and support to our valued customers to complement our existing ‘Factory Direct’ sales, service and support in the UK. The cornerstone of our success is our strong customer and dealer relations and how we work directly with them to bring mutual success. Alongside our Factory Direct UK sales programproviding tailored factory solutions, as announced at Hillhead, the partnership enhances our product distribution and support in the UK Market ”. Terry Hughes, Managing Director at Blue Southern, said: “We have always taken great pride in providing our customers with the latest cutting-edge technologies, and best practice service and technical support to back it up. Our primary focus is to help our customers develop their business efficiency to become as profitable as is possible. The addition of Terex Washing Systems to our portfolio allows us to be better placed to continue to meet our customers’ ever growing commercial and technical needs. Terex Washing Systems’ broad product offering, paired with our industry knowledge and market leading aftercare offerings, will give us and our customer base significant business opportunities. These are exciting times, and we look forward to the future with great optimism and enthusiasm”.... Read more...SAMOTER LAUNCHES SAMOTER LAB – THE NEW TECHNOLOGICAL HEART OF THE EVENT20 October 2022EventsA venue for discussion and dialogue with a massive emphasis on innovation, an exhibition area with tailor-made spaces combined with professional training and update courses. Verona, 3 October 2022 – Welcome to Samoter Lab – the new beating heart of the 31st edition of Samoter, the international construction machinery exhibition scheduled at Veronafiere 3-7 May 2023. The new area focusing on innovation, comparison and training was previewed to a number of companies that develop 4.0 solutions and technologies: Bosch Rexroth, Cobo Group, Kiwitron, Ifm electronic, Leica Geosystems, S.A.E.T., Spektra – A Trimble Company, Spring Machine Control, Moba Electronic, Topcon Positioning Italy and W.A.Y. “Digitisation and de-carbonisation are the keywords characterising the new format,” said Sara Quotti Tubi, Agritech Area Manager, “not to mention economic sustainability, safety and training. Samoter Lab is open to all companies in the construction sector keen to bring innovation and content along to the trade fair and promote discussion.” There is consequently room for sensors, all remote sensing devices and diagnostic tools. As well as for the Internet of Things, machine-to-machine platforms and low-emission machinery.This project came into being through continuous dialogue with the sector, that expressed the need for a venue specifically for technological exposure combined with opportunities for updating, training and comparison involving companies that generate innovation, end users, institutions and the research world. “The construction machinery sector,” states Luca Nutarelli, Secretary General of Unacea, “is being overtaken by a massive wave of technological innovations. A focal point enhancing the extent of this change will be extremely useful to sector operators and equally help innovate trade fair marketing itself.” Samoter Lab will enjoy excellent visibility in the exhibition context: set up in the heart of Samoter – in the new Hall 12 opposite the main Re Teodorico entrance – visitors wishing to reach the other show halls are obliged to pass through it. The venue is characterised by purpose-built set-ups with a smart format: attendance by every company is conceived in accordance with a tailor-made model. The new project will consequently integrate fully and seamlessly with the traditional concept of Samoter. This initiative is also linked with the Innovation Award, the Technical Innovation Competition that rewards investments in research and innovation by companies in the sector. Following the Prize-Giving Ceremony scheduled on 23 February, the award-winning solutions and technologies will be highlighted in the Samoter Lab area with a dedicated event.... Read more...Steelwrist at the bauma exhibition in Munich, October 24-30, 202220 October 2022EventsAt bauma Steelwrist offers visitors the opportunity to see product news firsthand and watch demonstrations of how the tiltrotator and the SQ Fully Automatic Quick Coupler system increase excavator efficiency. Steelwrist SQ is a high performing fully automatic oil connection technology, used in quick couplers and tiltrotators on excavators to connect hydraulic work tools. The SQ50 quick couplers and tiltrotators for mid-sized excavators are new additions to the Steelwrist range of SQ products. At bauma Steelwrist also presents X02, a new model in the tiltrotator range, for excavators below 2,5 tonnes. Steelwrist stand number: FN 917/6 Steelwrist extends the quick coupler and tiltrotator offering with SQ50, a fully automatic high flow and Open-S compliant solution for mid-size excavators The new range of SQ50 quick couplers and tiltrotators is targeted toward 7-13 ton excavators. Steelwrist SQ is a high performing fully automatic oil connection technology, used in quick couplers and tiltrotators on excavators to connect hydraulic work tools. Outstanding flow characteristics and competitive building height and weight are significant advantages of SQ50. SQ50 meets the specifications of the Open-S standard for fully automatic quick couplers. S50 and SQ50 quick couplers are steel casted and have the Steelwrist Front Pin Lock safety solution. Front Pin Lock is a mechanical lock of the front shaft which significantly limits the risk of an unintended drop of work tools. The X12 and X14 tiltrotators are redesigned with a new top and attachment coupler in order to make it possible to upgrade from S50 to SQ50 at a later stage, even if the customer did not include SQ in the initial order. SQ on the top side (upper coupler) of the tiltrotator for rapid change between tiltrotator and other work tools, and SQ on the bottom side (attachment coupler) of the tiltrotator will allow for rapid change between hydraulic work tools. By using SQ, tiltrotator work tools can be made less expensive as the rotation function is included in the tiltrotator. “With the introduction of SQ50 fully automatic quick couplers and tiltrotators, we will change the game in the growing 10 ton excavator segment with flow capacities of 120 liters per minute with low back pressure. This allows for efficient use of high flow work tools also for mid-size excavators”, says Stefan Stockhaus, CEO of Steelwrist AB. High Flow hydraulics and Absolute rotation sensorWith the introduction of SQ50 the Qplus technology has been updated to allow for even higher flows, adding another 20 percent to flow capacity which allows users to run also the high flow requiring work tools on mid size excavators. With the introduction of SQ50 Steelwrist is implementing a new Absolute Rotation Sensor on the tiltrotators in order to give higher accuracy to Machine Control Systems. Full implementation is expected in Q1 2023. Together with Steelwrist Autotilt this allows for even higher productivity. SQ products that meet the demand from the demolition industrySteelwrist range of SQ fully automatic quick couplers includes models for excavators up to 70 tonnes. The latest addition to the range of SQ products for the demolition industry, the SQ90 quick coupler, will also be presented at the Steelwrist stand. Open-S compliant solutionAll Steelwrist SQ products follow the global Open-S industry standard for fully automatic couplers for excavators. This means that the SQ system is designed to be able to connect to other brands following the Open-S standard. Steelwrist expands the tiltrotator range with X02 for excavators up to 2,5 tonnes The installation ratio for tiltrotators on the smallest excavators is starting to grow globally and in response Steelwrist is now introducing the new X02, a tiltrotator suitable for 1,5-2,5 ton excavators. The X02 is accompanied by a complete range of work tools resulting in increased efficiency and versatility which convert also the smallest excavators into true tool carriers. Innovative design and easy maintenanceThe X02 tiltrotator has a number of innovative design solutions and comes with either a Direct Fit or an S30 top for the connection to the excavator. The coupler side (bottom) of the tiltrotator is available in a hydraulic locking for S30. The hydraulic lock version with the integrated Front Pin Hook is probably the only tiltrotator in this class that has work tool safety to support CE requirements. The X02 is positioned between the smallest TCX tilt coupler for machines below 2 tonnes and the X04 tiltrotator for excavators from 2,5 to 4 tonnes. Again the focus with X02 has been to make a fully casted product with best strength-weight ratio and low building height. Other innovative design solutions introduced with the X02 are: A new gearbox design which makes it possible to easily eliminate play over timeLubrication free bearings for easy maintenanceValves and control module placing to protect from outer damageA bolt-on lifting eye or lifting hook as option on direct fitted tiltrotators. Optimized range of work toolsThe X02 tiltrotator is accompanied by a complete set of Steelwrist S30 work tools, such as grading-, digging-, cable/trenching- and v-ditch bucket, asphalt cutter and ripper. In autumn 2022 a multi grapple is added to the work tool offering for X02. This turns the excavator into an efficient and versatile tool carrier that can do work in a wide range of applications. “With the launch of the X02 we finally complete the tiltrotator range for excavators below 2,5 tonnes. The X02 is a fantastic combination of innovation and robustness which customers have been waiting for”, says Stefan Stockhaus, CEO of Steelwrist AB. Compatibility with VDMA MiC 4.0 – open tiltrotator control system interface Steelwrist is a member of the German industry organization VDMA (Verband Deutscher Maschinen- und Anlagenbau e.V.). The VDMA working group MiC 4.0 has as its goal to create a uniform, manufacturer-independent and machine-independent digital communication around the construction process. For attachments this includes an open tiltrotator control system interface. Communication of attachments with the carrier is a very important safety aspect. The purpose is to achieve appropriate communication between the attachment and the carrier in order to identify the attachment accurately. This should transmit the necessary settings for safe use, prevent possible hazards and simplify the operability of attachments independent of the carrier. Steelwrist is represented in the VDMA booth no. B0.MIC with a Steelwrist X12 tiltrotator.... Read more...Kubota to showcase new electric machinery at Bauma 202220 October 2022Events / MachineKubota will unveil two new electric articulated wheel loaders at this year’s Bauma exhibition, enhancing its popular Smart Energy Solutions construction machinery range to offer operators more sustainable options. Showcased to the public for the first time, the new RT210-2e and RT220-2e are Kubota’s first electric articulated wheel loaders, ideal for construction sites that require low noise levels and no CO2. The launch of the two new Kubota machines follows the recent introduction of an LPG-powered mini-excavator and a fully electric track dumper, giving users more options than ever before to drive down emissions. The RT210-2e boasts a long loader arm as standard for maximum reach (a lifting height of 2.82m) and a lifting capacity of 1450kg. In addition, the RT220-2e has a shorter arm (a lifting height of 2.45m) with a lifting capacity of 2054kg, perfect for heavy-duty loading applications. With an overall width of only 1.08m and a machine height of 2.30m, the new wheel loaders are ideal for use on narrow and compact construction sites. The RT210-2e There are three lithium-ion battery options: 260Ah, 390Ah, 520Ah with a built-in charger of 40 Amp or 60 Amps. There are also two stand-alone 415V 3 phase supercharger options of 150 Amp or 300 Amp. The super chargers will charge a battery within 1-4 hours, whereas the onboard chargers will charge a battery within 4-12 hours depending on battery size. The batteries supply power to two electric motors, one 6.5kW for the drive motor and 12kW for the hydraulic motor. Additional features on the new all-wheel drive machines include a differential lock in the front and rear axles for limited slip, as well as three driving speed levels (0-5 km/h / 0-12 km/h / 0-18 km/h). In addition to the two new electric articulated wheel loaders, visitors to the stand will also be able to view Kubota’s current and renowned range of compact equipment. Mark O’Brien, Product Manager for Kubota (UK), said: “The topic of sustainability has never been more prevalent in the construction industry and it’s vitally important that we not only provide operators with machinery that is robust and reliable, but also helps reduce our environmental impact on our working environment. “We take our company motto For Earth, For Life very seriously and the introduction of two new electric wheel loaders is another example of how we can offer our customers more sustainable solutions as we work towards a greener construction industry.” Kubota will be showcasing its new electric wheel loaders and its extensive construction machinery range the Bauma’s open-air site north FN1019/1. For more information, please visit: https://www.kubota-eu.com.... Read more...New BrushcatTM and Log Grapple Attachments from Bobcat19 October 2022Attachments– New attachments are designed for Bobcat Small Articulated Loaders – Bobcat has expanded the company’s attachment range with the launch of two new BrushcatTMrotary cutter models and a new log grapple attachment for the company’s range of small articulated loaders (SALs). The new Brushcat attachments offer cutting widths of 1118 and 1372 mm, respectively, and are the smallest models in the full line-up of Brushcat rotary cutters, which offers larger models with cutting widths of 1676, 1829 or 2032 mm. Like the new smaller Brushcat attachments, the log grapple is compatible with both the Bobcat L23 and L28 SAL models. The log grapple meets the challenging demands of landscaping and site clearing jobs and is ideal for customers seeking maximum productivity by increasing the versatility of their machines. The log grapple can also be used on the new MT100 mini track loader. New Bobcat Brushcat Attachments Like the larger models, the two new smaller Brushcat attachments deliver powerful cutting and mulching action in areas of untamed growth and can pass through gates and other narrow entrances to work in areas that are inaccessible to larger machines. They are designed to handle tough brush clearing jobs in a wide variety of applications, such as agriculture, forestry, landscaping, municipalities, parks and recreation areas. The light weight, short deck and superior oscillation of these attachments enable the brush cutter to follow ground contours in order to maintain a clean cut, even on slopes. The new Brushcat attachments feature a high-efficiency, direct-drive motor that maximizes hydraulic horsepower for optimal cutting and mulching of tall, thick vegetation in one pass. The high cutting speed and heavy-duty blades maximize momentum to cut and mulch vegetation up to 5 cm in diameter. New Log Grapple Attachment The new log grapple is the perfect attachment for any landscaping project, as it can easily clean up after cutting or trimming trees and bushes. Overall, the log grapple brings the best out of Bobcat SALs, increasing their versatility and providing savings in both time and money.From cleaning and recycling to discarding or collecting branches and logs, with its heavy-duty teeth there is no job the new log grapple cannot tackle. The log grapple attachment also has reinforced tines, which with the heavy-duty teeth provides outstanding grip when managing unwieldy logs and brush. Rope bollards provide an additional anchor point, assisting in stability while at work. For increased operator control, the log grapple comes with an integrated tree pusher, ensuring material falls in the intended direction, allowing the operator to accomplish multiple tasks with the same attachment. Operators will also appreciate the efficiency offered by the log grapple’s 143 cm wide opening and 360° rotation for increased productivity and ease of use. The open sides allow for easy clamping of logs and piles of brush, clearing areas – even in confined spaces – more quickly. Bobcat Small Articulated Loaders The Bobcat L23 and L28 SALs offer high lift capacities in confined spaces, ease-of-use with simple intuitive controls and low ground disturbance for working on any terrain. Designed and built by Bobcat at the company’s North American facilities, the new SALs offer impressive stability and tipping loads of up to 1.39 tonne. The machines’ compact size, with a width of just over one metre combined with a tight turning radius, allow Bobcat SALs to work easily even in tricky and hard to reach areas. Despite their robust construction, the SALs are also built to be light enough for easy transportation. To ensure the new SALs are truly multi-purpose machines, Bobcat has utilised the company’s unmatched expertise in attachments, to develop a special version of the proprietary Bob-Tach® attachment mounting system allowing the use of both S70/MT55 and S100/S450 approved attachments. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com... Read more...Doosan Unveils ‘All-in-One Platform’ for Smart Construction18 October 2022Events / Technology– New XiteCloud-based Solutions to be shown in Innovation Center – One of the important features of the Doosan stand at Bauma is the dedicated Innovation Center, where the company will unveil the new generation XiteCloud ‘All-in-One Platform’ for Smart Construction under the company’s ‘Powered by Innovation’ banner. In 2019 in South Korea, Doosan introduced Concept-X, the world’s first unmanned automated and integrated control solution for construction, quarrying and mining sites. XiteCloud is the first stage in commercialising Concept-X. Doosan is committed to producing innovative products and services for its customers and delivering added value through innovation. Visitors to Bauma will be able to see the latest developments in the XiteCloud system, as the company further expands its business portfolio into the field of construction site management, to complement its existing operations in manufacturing and sales of construction equipment. Manage Multiple Tasks on a Single Platform With XiteCloud, a customer can manage multiple tasks such as surveys, terrain analysis, machine purchases, equipment operation and construction management on a single platform, thereby reducing construction costs and saving time, while increasing work accuracy, which in turn raises productivity. XiteCloud also allows customers to manage multiple projects on a single platform, accumulating and managing data that can be utilized for future decision making/business. At Bauma 2022, visitors to the Innovation Center on the Doosan stand will be able to see the new All-in-One Platform for smart construction, based around the Xitecloud system. The All-in-One Platform introduces a range of new solutions that form part of the XiteCloud system all of which will be demonstrated at Bauma, covering many aspects of construction management, including:• XiteCore• XiteFleet• XiteAnalyst• XiteSIM• XiteSafety• XiteAuto As suggested by its name, XiteCore is a Cloud-based open integrated dashboard system that connects all of the XiteCloud solutions, providing the information needed to carry out a construction project and enables easy project management and control at a glance. This system provides opportunities for collaboration/communication among project participants with an open platform that adopts an applied card-type interface that allows the user to set the dashboard flexibly according to the particular characteristics of the project(card type, location, size, etc.) It also incorporates real-time monitoring of weather, manpower, equipment, instruments, CCTV and other aspects, together with connection to the other solutions within XiteCloud such as XiteFleet, XiteAnalyst and so on. Exhaustive Technology Verification In addition to several contracts awarded in South Korea and elsewhere around the world, XiteCloud has gone through an exhaustive technology verification process at multiple international construction, mining and quarrying sites. Having successfully implementedXiteCloud in its home market and beyond, Doosan is using Bauma 2022 as an important springboard to continue the international launch of the XiteCloud system. For more on Doosan construction equipment, please visit the website: www.eu.doosanequipment.com... Read more...HYUNDAI TO LAUNCH MINI EXCAVATOR RANGE AT BAUMA 202214 October 2022Events / ExcavatorsHyundai Construction Equipment is updating its mini / midi excavator offer, with the launch of a comprehensive range of award-winning EU Stage V machines. With operating weights of 1.7 to 5.5-tonnes, the A Series mini excavators will deliver lower emissions, increased hydraulic capabilities and improved operator comfort. Features include: • Prestigious Red Dot Design Award for distinctive ‘Tiger Eye’ design language • Load-sensing hydraulic system for models over 4 tonnes • All models have proportional joystick controls as standard, along with quick-coupler piping and safety valves on boom, arm and dozer blade cylinders • Large, quiet cab, tilting on models above 3.5-tonnes, delivers excellent service access Hyundai Construction Equipment Europe will introduce a comprehensive range of eight machines, from 1.7-5.5 tonnes, of which four will be shown at Munich’s Bauma fair 2022. The introduction of these models will complete Hyundai’s range of 11 compact excavators, from the smallest 1.0-tonne HX10A micro, through to the versatile HX85A, which competes in the 9-10 tonne segment when equipped with a two-piece boom. As part of the new range, the HX35A Z, the HX40A and the HX48A Z have been recognised as winners of the Red Dot Design Award, from Design Zentrum Nordhein Westfalen in Germany. Centered around the Tiger Eye lighting theme at the rear of the machines, the excavators have also been praised for their eco-friendly features and ease of operation. All Hyundai mini excavators benefit from an EU Stage V compliant diesel engine, reducing exhaust emissions and boosting fuel economy for the customer.... Read more...Xwatch supporting Synergy Hire – putting safety first14 October 2022Safety / TechnologySynergy Hire, headquartered in Letchworth in Hertfordshire, boasts an impressive fleet of in excess of 900 Hitachi wheeled and crawler excavators, ranging in size from 3t to over 50t. Synergy’s mission is to provide the most technologically advanced products and services within the equipment hire industry, and delivering safety solutions for its customers is very much part of Synergy’s remit. It was Synergy’s commitment to safety that led the company to Xwatch Safety Solutions, Garry Orr Synergy Hire’s Director of Operations explains, “I first met Dan and was introduced to the Xwatch product in May 2019, soon after we adopted the Xwatch system for height and slew as standard. Our customers and operators like the ease of use associated with Xwatch and the feedback we receive from operators are that you can’t match the simplicity and ease of use of the on-board computer systems. The partnership that we have with Dan and Xwatch will continue to grow in the coming years as we continue to expand our fleet.” Dean Hardy, Head of Business Development, Synergy Hirecommented, “Synergy hire was one of the very first hire companies to choose Xwatch to be their sole supplier for digital height and slew systems. This decision was due to the Xwatch system being so operator friendly and that the XW suite of products are also capable of interfacing with other systems to offer additional safety. We also get great technical support and reliable service and installations. Many of our large infrastructure clients require us to fit our excavators with a dedicated slew and height restriction system for their projects. We have tried several manufacturers’ systems and have found that the Xwatch products are by far the best available.” Dean concluded, “We currently have 130 systems in our fleet and there are a further 27 to be fitted on new machines arriving before Christmas.” The Synergy Hitachi machines are all working on high-profile infrastructure projects around the country which includes HS2. The fleet is supplied through Hitachi in the North East, the Xwatch systems are fitted at the dealer’s Port of Tyne facility by specialist Xwatch-trained engineers. Xwatch Sales and Operations Director Dan Leaney said,“We have worked with Synergy Hire since our launch to market. The company was the first plant hirer to specify Xwatch as standard on its Hitachi fleet. We are delighted that Synergy continues to support Xwatch and would like to thank them for their ongoing commitment to us and the safety of its customers.” Dan also commented on Synergy’s observations that ‘a key feature of Xwatch’s technology is ensuring it is easy to use for operators’. Dan said, “ We have designed our systems to be very simple with just a few pushes of buttons necessary – we hope that combining improved comfort with ease of use will better encourage operators to utilize the safety technology on a regular basis.”... Read more...Bobcat Launches New Upgraded BobCARE Planned Maintenance Programme11 October 2022Uncategorised– Offering a Unified UK Customer Experience and Guaranteed Costs – Bobcat has launched a new national version of the company’s successful BobCARE Planned Maintenance (PM) programme for customer machines in the UK, the first of its type in Europe. BobCARE PM is already appreciated by customers for its many benefits such as longer machine life, increased uptime or higher residual value. However, until now it has only been managed at an individual dealer level, which could not completely fulfil all customer expectations. To overcome this, Bobcat has worked closely with the company’s UK dealer network to introduce a new national solution, that keeps all the previous advantages while adding several new benefits including: Service support anywhere in the UKFixed costs for the duration of the contractChoice of plans with different durationsInclusion in lease financingFull guaranteed backing of Bobcat Improved Customer Experience The new version of BobCARE PM now offers a unified customer experience – once a BobCARE PM plan is purchased and activated, it is valid and recognized throughout the UK. As a result, customers can now have their machine maintained at the most convenient dealer branch based on the machine’s current location. The new plan also ensures that costs are fully predictable – the price is final and clearly stated right at the start of the contract. This means that maintenance costs are completely resistant to inflation. Bobcat is also offering various forms of the BobCARE PM plan, which vary from two years and 1000 hours up to five years and 5000 engine hours, so that customers can choose the most suitable support for their operation. The new BobCARE PM plan continues to include the regular maintenance operations and checks as well as all Bobcat genuine parts and fluids, that are necessary for planned service of customers’ machines. Every plan is also fully backed by Bobcat – customers, dealers and leasing partners are completely covered – the company stands behind every contract and guarantees their fulfilment throughout the entire contract period. John Christofides, Regional Sales Director for Bobcat EMEA said: “The UK already has a high adoption of Bobcat’s Protection Plus extended warranty scheme with an 84% take-up rate. We recommend the combination of BobCARE PM and Protection Plus as the best possible way to take care of a customer machine. This means that customers are backed by Bobcat in every possible way and therefore keeps downtime to an absolute minimum and maintains the highest possible value for the machine.” Reflecting Market Trends “Customer expectations are continuously shifting from ‘owning a machine’ to ‘care-free usage’. With the new national BobCARE PM plan, we are taking these trends into account, reflecting the need for flawless customer experience and dealers’ need for a simple and easily manageable offering,” added Corbin Braithwaite, Bobcat Service Manager for UK. Bobcat dealers will offer the option of a BobCARE PM plan when a customer buys a new machine – a loader, excavator or telehandler – from Bobcat. If the customer decides to go ahead, the price of BobCARE PM is included in the machine price. For customers choosing the leasing option for their machines, it is possible to break down the cost into periodical payments. For those customers who change their minds after they have completed their machine purchase, there is also an option to activate BobCARE PM up to three months after the purchase of a Bobcat machine. ‘All-in-One Approach’ Nowadays, a service contract is a natural part of the machine sales process – the current market trend is to perceive service packages as a machine option. Therefore, Bobcat’s lease partner is fully supporting the company’s service offerings and will support an ‘all-in-one approach’, where the machine, attachments, Protection Plus, BobCARE and financing are all covered by a monthly fee so that customers can solely focus on developing their own businesses. It is also possible to resell Bobcat machines with BobCARE PM still active. The programme is not only transferable, it also probably prolongs the service life of the machine, which also benefits the new customer during the sale. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com... Read more...Affordable safety with Xwatch Safety Solutions – avoid the credit crunch.11 October 2022Finance / SafetyWhat’s the price of safety? Dan Leaney, Xwatch Sales and Operations Director, reports that with the company’s new Buy Now Pay Later scheme – “It’s roughly around the cost of your daily cup of tea!” With affordable finance options, businesses can protect their workforce, and their machines both on-site and on-hire, with Xwatch height & slew limiters, rated capacity indicators, in fact, any of the Xwatch suite of safety products. Xwatch is offering companies the opportunity to purchase any solution through various finance schemes – enabling you to manage your cash flow and increase the level of safety on your equipment. You’ll be offered a formal payment plan with your purchase (via a third party) and you can split the monthly payments from three to five years (subject to status). There are a wide variety of plans available. Ever since its launch just over three years ago Xwatch has become the industry byword for safety. The simple system allows the operator to set a slew, height or RCI (rated capacity indication) to the machine in just four easy steps. A soft stop at each prescribed limit means wear and tear on both the machine and the operator are minimised. The full range of XW systems are all designed and manufactured in the UK using only the highest quality components sourced from leading technology manufacturers. The systems have undergone the most rigorous testing scenarios before being launched to ensure they meet and exceed any current legislation within the construction industry. The XW series of products meet the growing demands of site safety and data management with its easy-to-use operator screen. Setting and creating a safety barrier around the equipment within the equipment’s operating reach, whether it is height, slew, or RCI control, the “feather touch“ proportional hydraulic will easily produce a safe and comfortable working environment for the operator. The BNPL service is available to businesses only and is subject to status. Get in touch with Xwatch today to discuss your options. Visit Avoid the credit crunch with Xwatch Safety Solutions... Read more...Forward-thinking school invests in future with new machinery fleet10 October 2022MachineA prestigious college with a history of producing elite sporting athletes has marked its 100th anniversary with a significant investment in its groundscare. Lord Wandsworth College in Hampshire has completely renewed its machinery in order to maintain a huge area of sports pitches, running tracks and amenity grounds. A GPS precision sprayer has been added to the fleet, and combustion engines have given way to electric wherever possible in line with the college’s sustainability ambitions. Founded in 1912, Lord Wandsworth left a generous bequest in his will to educate the children of agricultural workers and children who had lost one or both parents. “The outdoors is still at the heart of the school, although the emphasis on farming has been replaced by sport, with notable former pupils including rugby stars such as world cup winner Jonny Wilkinson and British & Irish Lion Ugo Monye,” Alistair Cotton, Grounds and Gardens Manager, says. Other notable alumni include Squadron leader George Johnson – the last remaining member of the 1943 Dambusters raid – HelloFresh founder Patrick Drake, and Claudia Gwinnutt, who created the beauty brand Circla. Out of the total 1,200 acres on the site, the team is responsible for 150 acres which includes 14 winter pitches ranging from full size rugby and football to touch rugby and seven-aside football pitches. “There is also a full-size and half-size astroturf pitch and in the summer there are six grass cricket squares, two artificial cricket grounds and a grass 400m running track,” says Alistair. “It would be enough to keep 13 people busy – at the moment, we only have a team of five.” With staff recruitment an issue, a common problem at present in the industry, ensuring that the kit is up to speed and efficient is particularly important. The grounds team upgraded its fleet of John Deere kit this year, to better service the sports fields, some of which have increased in size, and to contribute to the college’s overall aim to reduce carbon emissions. “The school was passionate about cutting carbon emissions even before the current issues with power prices,” he says. “Opting for electric TE Gators was just one element of that – they’re also about to install solar panels on all the roofs to try and offset the utility bills.” So far, the team have been pleased with the performance. “They last a day and we’ve had no issues with battery life,” he says. “Compared to the combustion Gators we had before, they are not as fast, but if you’d never had one of the older models, you’d wouldn’t know – they do the job just as well.” A significant investment in solar panels across the college’s buildings will see the Gators charged by on-site renewable energy in the near future, but the team continues to run a diesel TH 6×4 Gator. This new collection of kit marks the school’s third deal with John Deere through their local dealer, Hunt Forest, in Blashford. “Each deal has grown year on year to the point we’re at now,” Alistair says. “We’ve been with John Deere for 15 years – they’re always very competitive on price and the reliability of the machines is as good as any.” The team’s schedule is dictated by the school timetable. “We know when all the fixtures are and we know we have to be off the pitches by around 3pm because that’s when they’ll all be out playing,” Alistair says. “In the school holidays, when the pupils aren’t here, we do things like irrigation – we do it ourselves, no contractors are involved. “We try to do as much ourselves as possible and keep contractors to a minimum – we’re lucky that the school has the financial resource to provide the extent of the machinery we require. There aren’t many schools that would.” Lord Wandsworth College is one of the only independent schools in the country to operate a John Deere Progator GPS sprayer. It’s an investment which Alistair says is hard to justify on the chemical saving alone, but one that takes into account the overall improvement in performance and the ability to evolve other practices using the technology. “Not only does it improve the spraying, but it also makes everything else better too – the process is better because of it,” he explains. “We’ve put the infrastructure in for GPS on the three series tractor as well so we can use it for fertilising and other things.” The 7700A fairway mowers are used to cut the cricket outfield in the summer and the winter pitches throughout the winter. The 9009A cuts in-between the pitches and the athletics area in the summer. The deal also included two 4066R tractors, an 8900A triple mower and the Gators have trailers on the back to transport mowers and markers around. The team has also taken delivery of a 3046R compact tractor alongside the five electric TE Gators. “The team has been really pleased with the new kit – with John Deere, it doesn’t matter what machine you’re in, it’s all the same excellent quality and ease of operation.” Alistair says.... Read more...FLEET OF SIX JCB POTHOLE FIXING MACHINES SNAPPED UP BY DAWSONGROUP10 October 2022MachineJCB has struck a major new deal with Dawsongroup, a leading commercial asset supplier, for six of its revolutionary pothole fixing machines to help tackle Britain’s nine-year backlog of road repairs. Dawsongroup | emc is investing in the highly productive JCB Pothole Pro machines, which fix potholes permanently, first time, without the need for labour intensive repair methods or additional expensive machinery. The six machines, bought from dealer TC Harrison JCB, are now being rolled out for rent or contract hire by local authorities and contractors across the country who urgently need to tackle the scourge of potholes as winter approaches. Demand for the machines is expected to be high as the Asphalt Industry Alliance’s (AIA) Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance survey estimates there are £12.64 billion worth of outstanding road repairs in England and Wales – equating to a nine-year backlog. Dawsongroup | emc Managing Director Glen Carruthers said: “This is really exciting for us. The Pothole Pro is an innovative machine which is both time and cost-effective. Our investment gives local authorities and contractors access to the best machines for the job without the need for major financial outlay. Not only is this a highly innovative addition to our product range, but it also means that we are helping to solve a problem that provokes many road users’ frustrations. It is also a significant milestone for Dawsongroup as the company further expands its extensive product range and sector diversification.” JCB Pothole Pro Sales Manager Ben Rawding said: “Dawsongroup’s order for six JCB Pothole Pro machines will have a big impact on the nine-year road repair backlog in the UK. It is our biggest order to date for this revolutionary machine and means thousands of miles more road will be repaired quickly and cost effectively as we go into winter. JCB’s solution is simple and cost effective and fixes potholes permanently, first time and we are excited that such a major hirer has recognised the machine’s benefits. “City councils, large rural county councils and Tier 1 highways contractors across the UK have invested in the Pothole Pro, and all are seeing significantly more defects being fixed, economically, permanently and safely. In fact, Stoke-on-Trent City Council – the first authority to invest in the Pothole Pro – has repaired seven years’ worth of defects in just 12 months.” Tests with contractors and local authorities show the JCB Pothole Pro can complete a pothole repair four times quicker than standard methods in less than eight minutes – equivalent to 700 potholes per month. With a 40km/h travel speed, the machine can also rapidly relocate between sites without additional transport costs. The Pothole Pro can prepare up to 250m2 of roadway in a single shift, or 5,000m3 per month and allows the contractor or local authority to cut the defect, crop the edges and clean the hole with one machine – mechanising jobs traditionally done by pothole gangs and delivering up to a 50% cut in daily costs. Safety is also improved as the gang does not have to complete the hand held cutting and breaking, eliminating the risk of hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS). The JCB Pothole Pro is equipped with a modified Simex planer, with integrated dust suppression, mounted on the machine’s rear skid steer hitch. The planer is 600mm wide, with up to 1.3m of side-shift adjustment. This allows the operator to plane a full carriageway from the kerb, without repositioning the machine. Hydraulic tilt and depth control provide a consistent depth for larger patches. The machine’s TAB two-piece boom is fitted with the JCB ‘Multi-tool’, mounted on an X12 Steelwrist tilt-rotator. The ‘Multi-tool’ comprises of two attachments, a dedicated hydraulic cropper and a sweeper/bucket. The 600mm cropping tool eliminates the need for floor saws or hydraulic breakers, providing a squared off, clean cut to the repair area. The operator then rotates the boom head to bring a 1.2m wide sweeper/bucket into use, to clean up the pothole area, eliminating the requirement for a separate sweeper truck. Material lifted by the sweeper/bucket can be loaded directly into a support truck for rapid removal from site. Dawsongroup | emc, previously known as Dawsongroup | sweepers, is part of a global group of companies committed to providing an extensive product range, and first-class customer service across the supply chain. Their Smarter Asset Strategy is a solution that allows businesses to minimise risk whilst improving cash flow, efficiency and agility. For PotholePro rental details visit dawsongroupemc.co.uk. For more information about the revolutionary PotholePro visit jcb.com.... Read more...MULTI MILLION POUND LOGISTICS CONTRACT SECURES HUNDREDS OF JOBS6 October 2022Finance / GlobalJCB today announced the appointment of a new global lead logistics provider with the awarding of a multi-million pound five-year contract. The agreement will see Denmark-based family company Maersk Logistics become the JCB’s lead logistics provider. The contract to manage the company’s global supply chain operations will commence in early 2023 and will see Maersk collaborate with Unipart Logistics in its delivery. Under the new agreement, both Maersk and Unipart Logistics will play a critical role in keeping JCB’s 10 UK production facilities in Staffordshire, Derbyshire and Wrexham supplied with parts from the JCB World Logistics Centre, Newcastle-under-Lyme. Employment at the Centre has more than quadrupled since opening in 2013 and the new contract secures the jobs of the 260 people working there, as well as those of an additional 160 people working across JCB’s Staffordshire plants. JCB Chief Operating Officer Mark Turner said: “JCB’s business is going through a period of unprecedented growth around the world and as we grow, keeping production lines supplied with parts and components on a just-in-time basis is imperative. The appointment of Maersk Logistics as JCB’s global lead logistics provider, along with Unipart Logistics, will bring about a transformation in our global supply chain operations and support our manufacturing growth plans.” Gary Jeffreys Maersk UK & Ireland MD said: “We are privileged that Maersk has been selected to be the global lead logistics partner for JCB. Our collective strengths and experience will deliver an agile, efficient, and sustainable global supply chain for JCB.” Ian Truesdale, Unipart Logistics MD, said: “Unipart’s heritage and expertise across manufacturing and production supply chains, combined with its innovation and proprietary system for continuous improvement, will enable us to drive and deliver sustainability and growth targets across JCB’s UK operations.” Maersk and Unipart will work closely with current lead logistics provider DHL during the handover period between now and next year.... Read more...Kubota set to increase excavator production with £100m plant expansion5 October 2022FinanceKubota Corporation has unveiled plans for a £100m expansion of its Hirakata Plant, the company’s main mini-excavator manufacturing facility in Japan, significantly enhancing its production capacity. The expansion will see Kubota increase its annual production capability from 48,000 to 78,000 units, helping tackle not only the high demand across Europe and North America, but also the future demand predicted in Asia and other emerging markets. “The increase in production capacity perfectly aligns with the ambition and expectation for a growth in demand for mini-excavator technologies here in the U.K, and across the construction industry as a whole,” explains Rob White, Division Manager, Construction, Kubota UK. “Expanding production capabilities by more than 60% ensures Kubota U.K will be able to continue providing its customers with good lead times and access to the latest mini-excavator technologies, as demand increases. And of course, all of this will continue to be supported through our vital dealer network and aftersales offering to ensure Kubota remains first choice in the U.K and Ireland for mini-excavators.” As part of the new expansion, an entirely new building will be erected and focus on the painting and assembly of the machines, streamlining the manufacturing process and creating more workspace allowing for more machining and welding equipment. The investment will total approximately JPY 17 billion (£100m+), with the new facility covering an area of 12,150m2. Kubota expects the start of operations for the assembly line to commence in Q4 2024, with the painting line becoming operational a year later, in Q4 of 2025.Alongside the physical developments at the facility, Kubota is also investing in new technologies that will be included within its new manufacturing process that offer additional product and environmental benefits. For example, the new painting process will adopt an environmentally friendly powder that minimises paint loss and significantly reduces volatile organic compounds (VOC), in addition to the electrodeposition painting, which helps towards anti-rust prevention. Kubota will also reuse the heat generated by these coating processes and employ solar power generation equipment installed on the roof of the new building to reduce the environmental impact of its manufacturing processes overall. The COVID-19 pandemic has driven a migration from cities to suburbs and in turn a more residential-focused construction industry worldwide than before. This is parallel to an increase in construction backed by infrastructure investments and urban development by countries throughout the world. It is for these reasons that Kubota anticipates the current growth in demand for mini-excavators to continue primary in Europe and North America going forwards. For more information, please visit www.kubota-eu.com.... Read more...SANY on the road to success in Europe4 October 2022EventsAs one of the world’s largest construction equipment manufacturers, SANY has continued to demonstrate strength in recent years despite the restrictions caused by the pandemic. Due to its continual growth, SANY is increasingly investing in Europe with further product lines that are already successful for SANY across the globe. These include telescopic handlers, wheel loaders, cranes, piling rigs and road construction machinery. Experience new products at bauma At its newly designed exhibition stand, SANY will present the entire machine portfolio currently available in Europe with some of the machines set to become available for the first time in 2023. With this range, SANY is gradually meeting the needs and also the demands of its customers, however, the focus will be on the comprehensive excavator and wheel loader programme, including a number of new products presented in Europe for the first time. These include, the SANY SY19E mini excavator with canopy body. It adds a real highlight to the range of SANY excavators. With its battery power for an entire working day, the 2-tonne machine can be used wherever zero emissions and reduced noise levels are required. Also on display at bauma: the next generation of SANY wheel loaders. The SW305 and SW405 models with their bucket volume of 2.3 / 3 m³ and an operating weight of 14.5 / 18 tonne. SANY will also launch its new telehandler range starting with the STH1440 and STH1840. These new machines have once again substantially raised the benchmark for safety, ease of use, performance, and comfort with the cab and industrial design coming from Germany. Completely new to the product range are the road construction machines, which are already operating very successfully worldwide. With models specially adapted to the European market, SANY also wants to conquer this sector. In a first step, single drum rollers and tandem rollers are being tested with powerful graders to follow but road construction companies can still get a first impression of the machines at bauma. Visitors who want to have a closer look at the quality of a SANY truck-mounted crane or a drilling rig will also find what they are looking for. The electrically driven telescopic crawler crane of the parent company SANY Global will also be on display. What all machines have in common: maximum reliability, which is due, among other things, to the proven brand-name components and the precisely processed steel construction. These are machines with an exemplary price-performance ratio, which is topped off by SANY’s 5-year warranty.... Read more...Liebherr presents new LH 26 M Timber Litronic timber truck29 September 2022MachinePowerful machine for efficient timber handlingThanks to its compact design, it is predestined for use in sawmills and woodworking shops with limited spaceAs the smallest representative, complements the existing portfolio of timber tractors in the 25-tonne range Liebherr presents the LH 26 M Timber Litronic, a new special machine for efficient timber handling. Thanks to its extremely compact design and exceptional manoeuvrability, the LH 26 M Timber is predestined for work in sawmills and timber operations with limited space. The handling machine impresses with extremely low fuel consumption and maximum performance at the same time. Whether as fuel, construction element or piece of furniture: wood is a climate-friendly and popular all-rounder. For efficient timber handling, Liebherr offers a wide portfolio of powerful and efficient special machines that are ideally suited for typical work processes such as loading and unloading trucks and trailers, sorting logs or transport. For these activities, good driving performance, high payloads as well as fast working cycles are particularly in demand. With the LH 26 M Timber Litronic, Liebherr is presenting a new timber truck that extends the existing portfolio downwards with an operating weight of between 23,500 and 26,000 kg. Machine combines high driving performance, compact dimensions and manoeuvrability The engine power of 125 kW provides the system with a high torque. This means that the machine can be accelerated quickly. In combination with the high pump flow rate, fast and dynamic working movements and thus the highest handling performance are guaranteed. Thanks to its compact design, the machine is ideally suited for use especially in confined spaces. Due to the extremely small front and rear swing radius, the machine can be completely swivelled even in tight locations. The minimal contour of the right front in particular means that work can be carried out very close to the sorting string or pile, as this is always within the width of the undercarriage. This provides an excellent view of the working area, ensures additional safety and prevents collisions. For high manoeuvrability, the LH 26 M Timber is equipped with all-wheel steering as standard. The all-wheel steering increases driving stability and thus improves directional stability. The automatic steering reversal, which is also standard, guarantees the correct steering direction at all times when driving forwards or backwards. Optimised undercarriage concept and efficient driving operation for trailer operation The electric swing angle adjustment in the traction motor provides more torque, maximum acceleration and higher tractive effort. This ensures a constantly high driving performance even on slopes. The optimal adjustment of speed and flow rate ensures convincing fuel efficiency even at maximum speed. For longer distances, the combination of timber tractor and trailer is the optimal choice. Thanks to the powerful drive and the robust axles, trailers weighing up to 60 tonnes can be towed. The new undercarriage concept with 2-point blade support significantly increases the handling performance in trailer operation. The 2-point blade support guarantees maximum stability as well as high payloads when loading and unloading the trailer over the entire swivel range. This allows more timber to be handled per loading cycle and thus increases productivity. The blade can additionally be used for clearing work and thus increases safety in the timber yard.... Read more...Bobcat Loaders Used to Build Kenny Festival Race Tracks29 September 2022Events / Track LoadersCreating Courses for Europe’s Premier Motocross & Quad Event – The 27th Kenny Festival, Europe’s largest all-terrain event on two and four wheels, took place on the weekend of 10th and 11th September 2022 in Reygades in the South of Correze, France. The Kenny Festival organiser, JLFO Events, used several Bobcat compact loaders, including a new T7X electric compact track loader being used for the first time in Europe, to help build and maintain the various tracks for racing at the event. With the support of the authorities of the Correze and the municipality of Reygades, the 2022 edition of the Kenny Festival welcomed a large number of participants, the key to its success. More than 660 motocross riders took to the starting line, including many champions, and more than 1175 quad and motorbike riders. As well as the T7X, the JLFO Events team utilisedBobcat T650 and T770 compact track loaders to build and maintain the tracks for the riders. An Event with a History The event was born 27 years ago and retains its original spirit based on the simple pleasure of offering courses where riders of all ages can take part. Indeed, the motocross track has been unanimously recognised as a must on which all levels of riders can express themselves. All the participants had the ‘privilege’ of accessing the circuit in its perfectly maintained and unmarked condition on Saturday morning and then again when it was completely reconditioned on the Sunday. In all, a team of 80 people were mobilised for the organisation of this event in Correze, which was attended by around 6000 visitors over the weekend of 10-11 September 2022. JLFO Events and Bobcat, An Outstanding Team JLFO Events has unequalled expertise in the construction of off-road tracks for cars, motorbikes and quads and has total control over everything involved. Each track is built strictly for the duration of the event and includes numerous structures specific to these disciplines. JLFO Events has unique experience and a large technical capacity to build courses for all types of sporting events. “For many years, JLFO Events has relied on Bobcat machines to build the best tracks, sometimes in the most complex conditions,” explained Jean-Luc Fouchet, Founding President of JFLO Events. “With our Bobcat compact track loaders, you can quickly carry out work, then stand back, look at the shape and correct it if necessary.” In addition to Bobcat operators and machines putting on a show by taking care of the trails, there was also a stand in the heart of the accompanying All-Terrain trade show, where other market-leading Bobcat products were on show including the very popular E10z mini-excavator. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com... Read more...EW100: A New Era of Wheeled Excavators Begins27 September 2022Events / ExcavatorsThe Wacker Neuson wheeled excavator EW100 is unique in its class and sets new benchmarks. The construction site 4.0 was in focus while developing the machine: An intelligent Attachment Management, a well thought-out Human-Machine-Interface, and the preparation for diverse assistance systems and interfaces are just a few examples. When changing attachments, the machine assists the operator by adjusting the hydraulic oil flow to the preset tool according to the selection made on the 10-inch touchscreen display. The excavator also excels in the area of safety with good visibility thanks to the flattened engine hood. In addition to the rear-view camera, this ensures a comprehensive view all around the machine. In addition, the excavator is extremely stable even when rotating 360 degrees with a lifted load. Furthermore, the development of the excavator focused on user-friendliness and efficiency: Thus, thanks to the powerful drive hydraulics and the high basic work performance, the EW100 can also be used to complete tasks which would otherwise require a 14-ton excavator. Experience the wheeled excavator live at the Wacker Neuson booth FN.915 at Bauma or live on their social media channels on Monday, October 24th, 2022! More information in the Video: https://youtu.be/hwKsGYyy5cc and at www.wackerneuson.com/bauma... Read more...Powerful new tracked barrow from Dragon Equipment22 September 2022EquipmentDragon Equipment are excited to announce, at the 2022 APF show, the newest addition to its product range – the PB1000 Power Barrow. Built using the same tried and tested all-terrain track base as all of the Dragon Equipment range, the manoeuvrable PB1000 is capable of safely carrying, lifting and tipping loads of up to 1,000Kgs. The steel bucket is incredibly durable and robust which ensures it can stand up to the toughest of jobs on commercial or domestic building sites. Plus, with a weight of under 650kg and width options to suit all situations, it’s a machine that is easy to move from site to site, using a van, truck or trailer, making sites with restricted access much more accessible. With the PB1000 bucket in its lowest position the front is just 870mm from the ground, making loading by hand easier. The custom-built conveyor of the DragonEquipment CR300 Crusher can easily discharge into the bucket – removing the crush to the preferred place makes the pair the perfect match to increase productivity and reduce material handling time. With the bucket fully raised it will reach to 1,425mm, so it can easily and safely tip full loads into a skip, dramatically reducing the labour involved in moving materials on site. As with all of the Dragon Equipment range, the PB1000 is powered by the Vanguard 400 14HP petrol engine, which benefits from a fully integrated cyclonic air filtration system and maintenance intervals that are double the industry standard, as well as the patented Vanguard TransportGuard to prevent oil and fuel dilution during transit. A diesel option is also available upon request. Jeff Haines, Director at Dragon Equipment explained: “The PB1000 Power Barrow is the next step in helping us to revolutionise how we recycle, move and use materials on site. Working in harmony with our LF1000 Lifter and CR300 Crusher, together the machines can dramaticallyreduce the amount of time, money and energy used on both commercial and domestic sites”. See the PB1000 Power Barrow on stand 1520-1530 at the APF show, or visit www.dragon–equipment.co.uk... Read more...Bobcat Reveals Super Compact Telehandler and Company’s Most Powerful Compact Loaders21 September 2022Telehandlers / Track Loaders– The new TL25.60 telehandler and S86 skid-steer and T86 track loaders – Bobcat has expanded the company’s next generation R-Series range of products with the launch of the new Super Compact TL25.60 telehandler and the new S86 and T86 compact loaders. As the smallest machine in the range, the new TL25.60 brings the number of rigid frame telehandlers from Bobcat for construction, rental and general handling to 11 models. The new S86 R-Series Skid-Steer Loader and T86 R-Series Compact Track Loader replace the previous 700 and 800 M-Series loaders and complete the current R-Series loader line-up. Commenting on these new product introductions, Mike Vought, Vice President Product Management at Doosan Bobcat EMEA, said: “Because job sites are becoming ever tighter on space, telehandlers must also become more compact and agile. We have designed the new Bobcat TL25.60 to not only meet this demand but to be the best compact machine on the market. The S86 and T86 are also exceptional machines – the most powerful compact loaders we have ever built, providing even more versatility as both tool carriers and workhorses.” The New TL25.60 Super Compact Telehandler The new TL25.60 telehandler has been designed for simplicity of use, excellent stability, optimum comfort and safe operation in any type of application. The TL25.60 is powered by a 75 HP Bobcat Stage V engine. The machine has a rated operating capacity of 2500 kg, offers a maximum lift height of 5.91 m and a maximum reach of 3.31 m. The Bob-Tach carriage (manual or hydraulic) increases versatility by allowing the TL25.60 to utilise attachments designed for the Bobcat loader range. Florian Hilbert, Telescopics Product Manager EMEA at Bobcat, said: “On top of this Super Compact format, the cab in the TL25.60 is the same as Bobcat’s top-of-the-range R-Series 18 m model, so customers can be certain they have the most spacious cab in the compact telehandler market. A complementary version of the TL25.60 aimed at the agricultural market will be launched in 2023.” Features of the cab include: • New 5-inch LCD display • Enhanced intuitiveness and simplicity-of-use • Plenty of storage spaces • Air suspension seat for daily comfort • Optional tilting and telescopic steering column • Easy to get in and out of the cab with 90° door opening and low entry step Like all Bobcat telehandlers, the new engine hood has been designed to maximize visibility on the right hand side of the machine. Together with the new dashboard design in the cab and strong but slim cabin pillars, this provides excellent unobstructed visibility for the operator. Combined with the best turning radius on the market, this allows the operator to move around the job site with ease and to minimise accidents or mistakes. The TL25.60 has an extra tough design with a robust frame and boom for working in every possible environment. The shielded design provides protection for hydraulic and electrical components (including the pipes, harness and transmission) and a steel plate protects the base of the machine. Like all Bobcat telehandlers, the TL25.60 has a box section layout and significant ground clearance for peace of mind. The TL25.60 offers impressive control at any height thanks to the smooth hydrostatic transmission, hydraulic boom movements and flow sharing, ensuring all needs are met on job sites. Using the same main valve as the other models in the R-Series range, the TL25.60 offers the best cycle times on the market. Top-of-the-Range: the S86 and T86 Compact Loaders Delivering a higher engine and hydraulic output, the Bobcat S86 and T86 are the most powerful compact loaders the company has ever built. Both machines use a well-proven Stage V compliant 3.4 l Bobcat engine – producing 78 kW (105 HP) at 2600 RPM. Just like all R-Series loaders, the engine is mounted in-line with direct drive, which improves the cooling capacity of the engine and hydraulic components. This change increases reliability in high-intensity applications such as road construction and forestry work. John Chattaway, Loaders Product Manager at Bobcat, commented: “The S86/T86 follow on from the very successful introduction of the smaller S66/T66 and S76/T76 loaders. The S86/T86 top-of-the-range models continue the same trend by setting new industry standards in every area, from in-cab comfort and safety to available power and attachment versatility. The S86/T86 take what is possible with compact loaders to a whole new level.” Best Hydraulics on the Market One of the most exciting new aspects of the S86 and T86 is that both machines have for the first time a choice of three different auxiliary flow outputs. There is a standard flow configuration providing 87 l/min for applications such as load and carry, or where low hydraulic flow attachments are used. Bobcat also offers two additional hydraulic performance functions using the new Electronic Displacement Control (EDC) Pump: a High Flow function giving 138 l/min and a new, industry unique Super Flow function taking auxiliary flow to 159 l/min. The Five Coupler Block (standard with the Super Flow option) provides a flexible approach to running different attachments. From one common source, the operator can attach both standard or high flow approved attachments to the smaller sized ½ inch quick couplers. Then when using Super Flow, the use of the ¾ inch couplers allows maximum performance and productivity from the approved advanced attachments. Both High Flow and Super Flow options come integrated with Bobcat’s unique attachment control device (ACD). The S86 and T86 machines equipped with High Flow or Super Flow also have Power Bob-Tach Attachment systems as standard. The Power Bob-Tach is an added comfort and productivity feature that allows some attachments to be connected and removed without the operator leaving the seat, just using the switches conveniently located in the cab – it is optional on Standard Flow machines. Increased Lifting Capabilities The new S86 and T86 workgroup design increases the ability to lift more, carry more and reach further. This is achieved by a new workgroup geometry that improves lifting capability throughout the lift arm’s range of motion. When combined with the high hydraulic performance and the lighter and stronger cast-steel lift arm sections, the loaders offer higher capacity throughout the lift cycle – even at full height. Along with the S66/T66 and S76/T76 models launched over the last two years, the S86/T86 set new industry standards for in-cab comfort. This includes the low noise and vibration levels inside the one-piece sealed and pressurized cab, together with the intuitive SJC controls as standard, and the informative displays. The cab also has an HVAC system as standard and increased operator visibility, which can be further enhanced with the innovative Clear Side cab option. With the latter, 75% of the side windows are mesh-free, ensuring an unobstructed view from the cab. Bobcat has also added a rear-view camera as standard equipment to the list. In addition to the standard 5 inch in-cab display, Bobcat offers as an option, an advanced 7 inch display that provides even more detailed machine information and unprecedented device connectivity. Other key features of the S86 and T86 include: Bobcat S86 & T86 R-Series Loaders S86T86Rated operating capacity (ISO):1587 kg1780 kgTipping load (ISO):3175 kg5087 kgOperating weight:4536 kg5643 kg For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com... Read more...Liebherr shows rail-road excavator for track construction at InnoTrans20 September 2022ExcavatorsLiebherr rail-road excavator A 924 Rail Litronic as representative of the new generation at InnoTrans– Liebherr attachments and quick coupling system as supplement to the multifunctional machine– ECM certification at Liebherr Liebherr is presenting the A 924 Rail Litronic, a representative of the new generation of its successful rail-road excavators, at InnoTrans 2022 in Berlin. The machine can be used both on rail and on road. To complement the versatile machine, Liebherr will be showing numerous attachments as well as a quick coupling system for a wide range of applications. In addition, trade fair visitors can obtain comprehensive information about ECM certification on site. Berlin (Germany), September 2022 – The trade fair exhibit A 924 Rail Litronic has an operating weight of 21,800 kg to 25,000 kg. The machine is equipped with a 120 kW / 163 hp strong and robust engine. In combination with the optimally coordinated hydraulic system, the machine reach constantly high work speeds with the usual fluid working movements. For exhaust emission stage V Liebherr uses a newly developed SCRT system comprising a SCR catalytic converter and a standard particulate filter. The innovative hydraulic concept consists of a Liebherr variable displacement double pump with independent control circuits. High-performance, hydraulic attachments can thus be operated independently of the working and travel movements of the machines. The rail travel drive is mounted on either side of the undercarriage. During unloading the rail guide is lowered in axle pairs until the inner wheels of the dual tyres are at the track wheel and ensure a frictional connection of the travel drive. The service-orientated layout of the machine guarantees short maintenance periods and minimises the associated costs thanks to the time savings. All maintenance points are easily accessed from the ground. As occupational safety plays an important role in track construction, Liebherr offers safety systems specially developed in-house for rail applications. Numerous equipment features such as the pipe break protection on the lifting and stick cylinders, electronic height and turning radius limitation, load moment limitation i.a.w. EN 15746-2, impact-resistant roof panel made of laminated safety glass, rollover protection system (ROPS) and an emergency exit through the rear window provide maximum safety in all operations. Numerous Liebherr attachments and quick coupling system Liebherr offers a comprehensive portfolio of attachments to meet the various construction site requirements economically and reliably. With the fully hydraulic Liebherr quick coupling system LIKUFIX® both mechanical and hydraulic attachments can be changed quickly and safely from the operator’s cab. The A 924 Rail exhibited at InnoTrans is equipped with LIKUFIX®. Liebherr will also be presenting a wide range of attachments on its stand. Liebherr tilt unit LiTiU and LS 12 stick extension One of these, for example, is the Liebherr LiTiU slewing unit. This increases the functionality of attachments by providing an additional slewing angle of up to 2 x 50°. This is a huge advantage especially in track construction where there are generally more restrictions due to the rail infrastructure. LiTiU extends the working range of the machines, because even hard-to-reach places can be worked with the additionally generated swivel angle. At the trade fair LiTiU 33 is showcased as a sandwich attachment, i.e. the connection between the end of the stick and LiTiU, and the connection between the bottom of the LiTiU and the attachment are made via LIKUFIX® .This means the entire unit can be set down quickly and a different attachment, such as the Liebherr stick extension, attached and operational within seconds. The 2.25 metre long Liebherr LS 12 arm extension, which can also be used to extend the working radius of the rail-road excavator, will be on display at InnoTrans. In combination with the stick extension, the machine achieves a reach of about 10 metres and can thus also work on distant sites. GMZ 22 clamshell bucket and TR 20 pivot rotator The Liebherr GMZ 22 clamshell buckets are also designed for track construction. The new generation will be presented at the trade fair: for example, hydraulic lines that are tightly fitted to the sides and laid in a protected manner ensure a reduced risk of damage. The new lean design of the ejectors with improved linkage for the grapples, combination and track construction buckets as well as the tilted side plates, lead to more efficient and less resistant grabbing as well as optimised loading and unloading operations. Liebherr will be exhibiting the GMZ 22 with digging shells at the fair. The cutting width of the attachment is 600 mm and the grab capacity is 0.30 m³. Pivot rotators are also indispensable for track construction work today. Liebherr will be exhibiting the TR 20 pivot rotator at the fair. With its endless 360° rotatability, the patented slewing mechanism and the tilt angle of 2 x 50°, it offers maximum flexibility, especially for shaft work. ECM certification at Liebherr In order to be able to operate in rail transport, compliance with strict rules and regulations is required in addition to the comprehensive machine safety systems. In 2019, the EU Commission initiated a new directive intended to further enhance safety in railway traffic and to improve interoperability. The new EU ECM directive (Entity in Charge of Maintenance) now places responsibility on the owners of rail-road excavators. The DVO (EU) 2019/779, also called the ECM directive, applies to railway vehicles, which operate on the higher-level network. Liebherr rail-road excavators will also fall under this new certification requirement in the future Successful ECM certification will enable Liebherr-Hydraulikbagger GmbH to continue giving customers competent consultation and support. Successful certification also means that Liebherr sales and service partners will remain authorised and trained to perform repairs, annual inspections and revisions on Liebherr rail-road excavators. Liebherr-Mietpartner GmbH and Carl Beutlhauser Baumaschinen GmbH are also certified as official ECM entities. This will ensure that Liebherr rail-road excavators also remain available to customers for rental.... Read more...HYUNDAI EXCAVATOR STANDS TALL IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS20 September 2022MachineOne of Scotland’s leading civil engineering contractors has bought the world’s first Hyundai HX145A LCR HW (High Walker) model. Crieff-based MAM Contracting has taken delivery of the unique machine. The High Walker variant of the new HX145A LCR A-Series excavator is kitted out with full forestry specification and boasts significantly higher ground clearance than the standard model. For even greater stability and lower ground bearing pressure, MAM has had the undercarriage lengthened by 1040mm which results in an additional 11 trackpads on each side. Supplied by Hyundai dealer HRN Tractors, the new machine is primarily intended for forestry work and peat restoration projects – where it will be deployed with extra wide 1200mm tracks. The versatile machine will also be put to work on highways jobs where its reduced tailswing allows safe operation within a single lane. MAM Contracting’s Owner Mike Melville said: “We have looked at other High Walker excavators from other manufacturers but to my mind there is simply nothing else out there that can touch the Hyundai for build quality, robust undercarriage, price, performance, ease of maintenance, low running cost and dealer backup. “Our dealer is great to deal with and over the years we feel they have always had our best interests at heart. We are really well looked after, and the Hyundai product is excellent.” Critical in forestry applications, Hyundai A-Series excavators feature a state-of-the-art AAVM video camera system to give an unobscured 360-degree field of vision for operators. Its Intelligent Moving Object Detection recognises when people or moving objects come within a five-metre range alerting should site personnel or passers-by potentially enter the area of operation. Established in 2004, MAM is one of the leading privately owned civil engineering companies in Scotland. It provides a wide range of engineering and construction services across many market sectors. These range from the construction of high-quality hydro schemes, new access roads and forestry bridges, to smaller projects, such as new-build groundworks, landscaping, and mono-blocking. Its plant hire division offers some of the best and most cutting-edge equipment in Scotland. Experts in the sector, MAM provides a start-to-finish solution for forestry, using specialist machinery and plant to complete all aspects of a project – from extraction to maintenance and construction. Services includes: major civil projects, excavation, fleet transformation, tree surgery, ground prep, peatland restoration and conservation work.... Read more...Bobcat Launches New MT100 Mini Track Loader14 September 2022Track LoadersBobcat has launched the new MT100 mini track loader, removing the need for manual labour, and replacing the use of wheelbarrows, shovels and hand tools in many applications in construction, demolition, rental, landscaping, agriculture and other industries. With a standard width of just 904 mm (increasing to 1045 mm with the Wide Track Option providing increased stability and lower ground pressure), the reduced dimensions of the new MT100 provide easy passage through narrow gates and doorways and facilitate work in confined spaces. The integrated ride-on platform of the MT100 gives the user a wider view to the sides of themachine as well as the bucket cutting edge or attachment. Combined with the track system, the ride-on platform on the MT100 provides a smooth ride for enhanced operator comfort and confidence. The ISO joystick controls on the MT100 are ergonomically designed and provide finely tuned precision – so controlling the machine is safe, easy and comfortable. John Chattaway, Loaders Product Manager at Bobcat, commented: “With the MT100 mini track loader, users can travel and work in the tightest spaces where other machines cannot. The MT100 should not be underestimated – it does serious work: from cleaning up under conveyors at quarries and waste sites to digging, trenching, tilling and moving materials and more on construction and demolition sites. The MT100 also offers the attachment versatility of larger Bobcat compact loaders.” Outstanding Specifications to Meet the Most Demanding Jobs Despite its compact size, the MT100 mini track loader still delivers a rated operating capacityof 460 kg, a tipping load of 1314 kg, a powerful breakout force and a lift height of 2057 mm. The moveable counterweights (CWs) system adds even more capability and allows the user to tailor the lift capacity or ground engagement depending on the application. As standard, the counterweights sit in the front undercarriage to provide optimal ground engagement. Moving them to the rear uprights increases lift capacity to 485 kg and the tipping load to 1387 kg when needed. The Stage V, 25 HP engine on the MT100 works efficiently to drive the work equipment. The track drive and powerful 41 l/min auxiliary hydraulics ensure the MT100 can be used for multi-function work, carried out using the many different attachments available. In fact, whether constructing, demolishing or landscaping, the MT100 shares many of the same attachments found on the company’s smaller loaders using the same standard Bob-Tach attachment system. There is also a common industry interface available for hooking up to other equipment that customers may have in their fleets. Tracks Help to Protect Established Surfaces The tracks on the MT100 allow travel over established surfaces, with less worry about repairs and costs associated with surface damage. With a ground pressure of 36 kPa (5.25 psi), the standard 180 mm narrow tracks provide good protection for most turf and finished surfaces. The optional 250 mm wide tracks further reduce the ground pressure to 30 kPa (3.97 psi). The MT100 also has a class-leading ground clearance of 205 mm, that makes working over and around obstacles safer and easier for demolition and landscaping tasks. Specifications for the MT100: Rated operating capacity (ISO): 460 kg Front CWs – 485 kg Rear CWs Tipping load (ISO): 1314 kg Front CWs – 1387 kg Rear CWs Operating weight: 1538 kg Engine:Kubota D902-E4B-BC-1 18.5 kW (25 HP) at 3600 RPM Travel speed:Forward speed 6.6 km/h – Reverse speed: 4.7 km/hHydraulic flow /pressure (Standard): 41 l/min @ 20MPa Width:904 mm (1045 mm Wide Track Option) Length (with standard bucket): 2698 mm Lift Height:2057 mm Ground Clearance: 205 mm For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com... Read more...