Heavy Equipment Guide June 2020, Volume 35, Number 6 by Baum Publications Ltd.

HEAV Y EQUIPMENT GUIDE JUNE 2020

COMPACT ADVANTAGE PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40069270

AN IN-DEPTH REPORT ON COMPACT TELEHANDLERS 10

STRINGLESS PAVING HELPS AIRPORT EXPANSION PROJECT TAKE FLIGHT 20 DOOSAN GOES BIG FOR AGGREGATES OPERATIONS 23

www.heavyequipmentguide.ca

REBUILDING REAPS BENEFITS FOR CONTRACTORS 26

JohnDeere.ca/Elevate

ELEVATE YOUR VERSATILITY. INTRODUCING THE LATEST ADDITION TO OUR L-SERIES WHEEL LOADER LINE – the 444L, 644L, 644L Hybrid, and 724L. Enhancements include near-parallel lift, a more spacious operator station, ergonomic electrohydraulic (EH) controls, and new bucket and linkage designs. Add it all up and there’s no better way to comfortably and efficiently Run Your World.

Stay strong. Build on.

Your toughness and dedication are appreciated now more than ever. To help, through June 30th, put as low as $4,200 CAD down, make no payments for up to 90 days and get a 4-year/250,000-mile warranty on a new MackÂŽ GraniteÂŽ. Visit MackTrucks.com/BuildCanada or see your local dealer for details.

Act now. Offer valid until June 30, 2020.

Final approved transaction terms including down payment are subject to standard Mack Financial Services credit underwriting guidelines and advance policy. Mack Financial Services reserves the right to amend or cancel the program at any time without notice. Approvals will state the program terms and any other conditions deemed appropriate by Mack Financial Services. Except as explicitly described above, program rates may not be combined with any other program or offer. No additional rate discounts are available. This offer is available to Canadian residents only.

No payments for up to 90 days. 4-year / 250,000 mile warranty on us. Qualified Customers Only

Contents

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

JUNE 2020 | VOLUME 35, NUMBER 6

COVER STORY

FEATURES

20 Stringless paving helps airport expansion project take flight

Challenging contract draws on capabilities of Topcon Millimeter GPS

10 In-depth report: Compact advantage 15 Grade control integration adds precision tools for excavators Hitachi’s Solution Linkage Integrated Grade Control system uses Topcon technology

18 Shaping the Saskatoon earthmoving scene

22 Additives turn soil into solid rural road surfaces

26 Rebuilding reaps benefits

Today’s expanded rebuild options drive down total cost of ownership

28 Telematics system offers new ways to improve earthmoving efficiency

Doosan goes big for aggregates operations

New trio add to top end of machine ranges with rugged production and power

Allan Construction relies on Bell articulated dump trucks

25 Fibre installation drives rural Manitoba HDD operator

DEPARTMENTS

SECTIONS 8 Spotlight 10 In-Depth Report 15 Earthmoving & Excavation

Cover photo: The Snorkel SR5719 compact telehandler.

20 Roadbuilding 23 Aggregates & Quarries 25 Underground Construction

26 Equipment Maintenance & Management 28 Telematics

6 Editor’s Letter 29 Advertiser’s Index 29 Highlights from the Web 30 Last Word JUNE 2020

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 5

VIEWPOINT Technology is changing how we work

he past few months have provided an interesting view on the ways we use the technology around us. For example, this morning I sat at my home office in Vancouver for a meeting with a person on the east coast of the United States and another in Europe, all through a video conferencing system that, while it’s been available for some time now, has seen explosive growth in recent weeks. The realities of the world situation as it stands have shown the benefits of many technologies that we may have given little thought to previously – technology that has been there, but not used to its fullest. Web-based conferencing, for example, has been around for quite some time. Its usage has been often limited to large companies with high-tech knowledge and beyond that to individuals connecting back and forth. Now, in this age of physical distancing, it gives us a chance to meet “face-to-face” on a regular basis, an opportunity to keep team rapport and contact going. We’ve all heard of cloud computing, of course, the catchphrase of the past few years in high-tech circles. Today, without it, we’d all be in trouble, wouldn’t we? Our team at Heavy Equipment Guide is working almost entirely from home, conducting interviews, producing content for online and print, laying out magazines – all through the cloud. Construction is notoriously slow to adapt when it comes to technology. There’s a broad range of knowledge in this industry that comes from years spent on the ground and in the operator’s seat, and a lot of construction professionals are resistant to technology taking over the tasks they have managed over time. We’re seeing that change, though, as new faces begin to enter the workforce with more technology experience, and that can only be a good thing for a variety of reasons – efficiency, precision and more. Let’s look at jobsite safety as an example. A recent jobsite visit started with a supervisor catching up to me within a few minutes of arrival, carrying an iPad with a safety briefing checklist that we worked through together. That, to me, is an excellent use of technology which has been available for some time – using the cloud to record my visit and confirm my knowledge of site safety rules without the need for paperwork that ends up taking up space in the back of the office. More directly, we’re seeing greater use of 3D grade control systems that take advantage of design systems on the market for many years now; those designs are converted and used to hone the precision of excavators, dozers and many other pieces of equipment. Greater precision saves money for the contractor and speeds the construction process along. We are also on the cusp of turning some of the everyday technologies all around us into even more productivity features. High-speed connections, video feeds and other features that we find in video games and mobile phones are being used for innovations like remote operation. At CONEXPO, Caterpillar demonstrated a system that had an operator running three different machines in three different states, all from one station, swapping back and forth with the touch of a button. The combination of these common technologies could conceivably change the way earthmoving work is done – sooner than later. Our current situation is a good reminder that looking more closely at technological advancement might just turn up some interesting ways to change how we work, whether it’s at a desk or in the operator’s seat.

Lee Toop Editor

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE JUNE 2020 VOLUME 35 • NUMBER 6 EDITOR Lee Toop ltoop@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 315 EDITOR IN CHIEF Kaitlyn Till ktill@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 330 DIGITAL EDITOR Slone Fox sfox@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 335 ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Sam Esmaili sam@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 110 ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER David Gilmour dgilmour@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 105 MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Arnie Gess agess@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 115 ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER Tina Anderson production@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 222 DESIGN & PRODUCTION Morena Zanotto morena@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 325 PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Ken Singer ksinger@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 226 VICE PRESIDENT/CONTROLLER Melvin Date Chong mdatechong@baumpub.com FOUNDER Engelbert J. Baum Published by: Baum Publications Ltd. 124 - 2323 Boundary Road Vancouver, BC, Canada V5M 4V8 Tel: 604-291-9900 Toll Free: 1-888-286-3630 Fax: 604-291-1906 www.baumpub.com www.heavyequipmentguide.ca @HeavyEquipGuide FOR ALL CIRCULATION INQUIRES Phone: 1-855-329-1909 • Fax: 1-855-272-0972 e-mail: baumpublications@circlink.ca Subscription: To subscribe, renew your subscription, or change your address or other information, go to: http://mysubscription.ca/heg/ Heavy Equipment Guide serves the Canadian engineered construction industry including: road building and maintenance; highways, bridges, tunnels; grading and excavating; earthmoving; crushing; trucking and hauling; underground utilities; trenching; concrete paving; asphalt paving; demolition; aggregates production; fleet maintenance; and asset security and management. The magazine is distributed to key industry personnel involved in these sectors. Subscription Price: In Canada, CDN $91.00; Outside Canada, US$149. Heavy Equipment Guide is published ten times a year in January, February, March, April, May, June, July/August, September, October and November/December. Heavy Equipment Guide accepts no responsibility or liability for reported claims made by manufacturers and/or distributors for products or services; the views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Baum Publications Ltd. Copyright 2020, Baum Publications Ltd. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publishers. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. Printed in Canada, on recycled paper by Mitchell Press Ltd. ISSN 1485-6085 PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40069270 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Dept., 124-2323 Boundary Road, Vancouver, BC V5M 4V8 Email: baumpublications@circlink.ca Fax: 1-855-272-0972

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

>> JUNE 2020

SPOTLIGHT //

INTRODUCTIONS & UPDATES

Keep up to date on the latest equipment and product introductions. Visit HeavyEquipmentGuide.ca or subscribe to our weekly eNewsletter at HeavyEquipmentGuide.ca/newsletter-info KOBELCO CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY USA

FIRST IN NEW GENERATION OF EXCAVATORS The SK130LC-11 is the first model to be introduced as part of Kobelco’s next generation of excavators, the Generation 11, which bring power, productivity and efficiency to new heights. It maximizes job productivity with its nimble movement and digging power. This model delivers a dynamic digging force of 24,818 pounds, even while minimizing fuel consumption. The SK130LC-11 is equipped with independent travel, a Kobelco exclusive feature that allows the machine to move, lift and swing simultaneously without experiencing loss of power. Furthermore, automatic swing priority instantly delivers full swing power during combined operations without switching modes. A 96-hp Tier 4 Final engine enables the SK130LC-11 to maintain productivity and efficiency while working at high power levels, lifting heavy loads, and travelling on steep grades.

EDGE INNOVATE

TRACKED CONVEYOR OFFERS RADIAL STOCKPILING FUNCTIONALITY The Edge TSR80 is an 80-foot-long track-mounted conveyor with radial stockpiling functionality. It has packaged all the advantages of a mobile radial stacker and a track-mounted stockpiler into one product. The TSR80 has the ability to self-propel across even the roughest terrains and the capacity to create massive radial stockpiles. It is an efficient stockpiling solution for operators who frequently reposition their processing plant or want a conveyor to fulfill a number of different roles on-site. The TSR80 offers operators a host of design features such as a hightorque belt drive, 1,200-mm-wide (48 inch) conveyor, hydraulic variable feed in height, adjustable operating angle, radial stockpiling functionality and quick transition from transport to

ROUGH-TERRAIN VERTICAL MAST HANDLES TERRAIN

operational mode. With a maximum discharge height of 11.8 m (38 feet 10 inches) and 360-degree radial capability, the Edge TSR80 can create stockpile volumes up to 34,237 cubic metres (40,947 cubic yards). In addition, the TSR80 has an

optional automatic stockpiling program which combines automatic radial drive functions and self-angle adjustment, enabling the TSR80 to create huge radial stockpiles with minimal supervision and prevents material segregation.

YANMAR

ULTRA-TIGHT-TAIL-SWING EXCAVATOR

The SV40 is an ultra-tight-tail-swing, 4-ton machine with a 39-hp electronically controlled Yanmar Tier 4 Final diesel engine. It comes standard with Yanmar’s patented quick coupler, SMARTASSIST remote communication system and a 4-year / 4,000-hour warranty. Options for the SV40 include a second PTO function, 4- or 6-way blade and an additional counterweight. The SV40 excavator is the first of the company’s compact equipment line to be offered in the new Yanmar red colour. The addition of the SV40 broadens Yanmar’s current excavator product lineup, which includes two other ultra-tight-tail-swing machines and another six excavators with true zero-tail swing.

ATLAS COPCO POWER TECHNIQUE

EFFICIENT ROTARY SCREW AIR COMPRESSOR The XAS 188 is a single-stage oil-injected rotary screw type air compressor powered by a Kubota Tier 4 Final, liquid-cooled, three-cylinder diesel engine. Delivering 189 cfm at 2.37 gallons per hour, a 27-gallon fuel tank is adequately sized to operate the XAS 188 for more than 11 hours at full-load. The diesel engine offers an output of 49.6 hp at a rated speed of 2,700 rpm. The engine starts the compressor at 14 degrees F with a standard glow-plug or a cold start option starts the machine at -13 degrees F. Highly efficient, a newly designed air end element includes a gear box, which demands less power from the engine, while at the same time delivering more air flow. This results in less fuel consumption and more productivity on the job. The compressor offers a longer service interval at 1,500 hours or two years when using synthetic compressor oil. 8

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

>> JUNE 2020

HAULOTTE

The new Star 6 Crawler electric rough-terrain vertical mast has excellent terrain capabilities, providing the operator easy access to all jobsites. The crawling system not only enables the mast to go over the roughest terrains, but also significantly reduces the ground pressure, which is essential for driving on sensitive floors. It operates both indoor and outdoor, up to a 6 m working height. The new lift can get over unstable, wet or uneven grounds and cross slopes up to 25 percent, Haulotte states. A mobile axis on the intermediate oscillating rollers provides an optimal ground adherence. The machine can elevate inside and outside on any kind of flat surface: it is particularly suited for working on fragile floors thanks to its low ground pressure. The mast architecture also ensures optimal stability: the 200 kg load capacity enables two operators to work indoors with confidence. For better comfort and efficiency, a 40 cm basket extension offers extra outreach. The Star 6 Crawler’s AC motors provide high torque and excellent maneuverability.

SAVINGS EVENT

X 55 +

5 yr/5,000 hrs Warranty

5 yr Financing for 0%

PROMISE FOR ALL SANY EXCAVATORS & WHEEL LOADERS

SERVING C ANADIANS

IN CANADA, FOR CANADA

Meridian

OneCap

Contact Your Nearest SANY Canada Dealer

smukherjee@sanyamerica.com 800.970.3236 | sanycanada@sanyamerica.com Financing is subject to approval. Offer available from May 1 - Sept. 30, 2020.

IN-DEPTH REPORT: TELEHANDLERS

COMPACT ADVANTAGE

GENIE GTH-5519

By Kaitlyn Till, Editor in Chief

he compact telehandler is a versatile, maneuverable machine ideal for confined locations, including parking garages, urban jobsites, loading and unloading in congested areas, agriculture and more. These machines are designed for use with more than just forks and, when outfitted with a skid-steer coupler, can perform many similar tasks to other equipment including skid steers, small wheel loaders, and forklifts, but with the advantage of much greater reach. For this article, we’re defining “compact telehandler” as any telehandler with a maximum lift capacity below 6,000 pounds. However, as manufacturers continue to introduce smaller machines, several other designations including sub-compact, super-compact and ultra-compact have come into use – but there is no standardized definition for each of these categories. JCB considers a sub-compact telehandler to be any machine under 5,000 pounds maximum lift capacity and Genie considers a sub-compact machine to be anything under its 5,500-pound-capacity GTH-5519. Josh Taylor, Genie product manager, Terex AWP, noted that both compact and sub-compact machines have shorter wheelbases and more compact operator cabins. Snorkel considers telehandlers between 5,000 and 6,000 pounds lift capacity to be compact and anything below 5,000 pounds to be sub-compact, while Manitou refers to anything below a 4,000-pound lift capacity as sub-compact. Skyjack defines any telehandler with a lift capacity between 4,000 and 6,000 pounds as compact. JLG uses the term “super-compact” when referring to its G5-18A model which, at 5,500 pounds lift capacity, is much smaller than any other telehandler the company offers under the JLG brand. As of February, JLG even has a 2,700-pound-capacity SkyTrak model, the 3013, which the company refers to as ultra-compact.

The growing North American market

Several manufacturers noted that the compact telehandler market has shown strong growth in recent years. “Currently, the compact telehandler market is one of the most competitive in the equipment industry with more than 15 models in the market,” said Rebecca Yates, JCB product manager for material handling. One of the reasons the compact telehandler is so popular is the skid-steer coupler on the front end, she added. That feature provides versatility for operators and owners in a variety of applications in both rental and end-use markets. The compact telehandler category has been one of the most popular rental machines since its introduction around 20 years ago, noted Taylor. “It has evolved slightly in that more manufacturers have entered the market, presumably due to its popularity.” The primary distribution is through rental channels, but the smaller size does make them attractive to end users as well, Taylor added. Many can be towed on a standard trailer behind a heavy-duty pickup or small dump truck.

JUNE 2020

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 11

IN-DEPTH REPORT: TELEHANDLERS

JLG G5-18A “The relatively low acquisition price and versatility make them attractive to own for contractors, landscapers and tradesmen.” According to John Boehme, senior product manager, JLG, urbanization is driving growth in North America for compact telehandlers. If you need to unload a truck in the congested downtown of a large city, you may only have one-side access to the load. On tight, congested roads, sometimes a truck can barely get through – and it still needs to be unloaded. According to Boehme, the smallest of telehandlers, such as the SkyTrak 3013, can do that. “It has the turning radius and small stature required to get it done; we’re talking about machines that are just over 50 inches wide and maybe 105 inches long that can get in there and get the material unloaded quickly.” Matthew Elvin, CEO of Snorkel,

noted that a large portion of compact telehandlers in North America are rented and stay on jobsites for most of the project due to their small dimensions for navigating the jobsite in pick and carry applications. According to Malcolm Early, vice president of marketing at Skyjack, the market growth for telehandlers has been growing upwards from 2016 to 2019. The compact segment has seen ever greater levels of growth and is expanding in importance.

Productivity and versatility in a compact package

Compact telehandlers are extremely versatile and maneuverable, which is their primary advantage on a jobsite. “They are able to manage jobs, such as unloading trucks, staging material and assisting jobsite cleanup. They do have advantages over other pieces of

equipment, such as vertical mast forklifts, skid steers or loaders,” said Taylor. Yates noted that a compact telehandler on any size jobsite is a versatile and valuable tool. “Compared to a standard forklift, a compact telehandler like the JCB 505-20TC provides several advantages including four-wheel drive with three modes of steering to maneuver around tight, unfinished work areas. The reach an extending boom on a compact telehandler provides can double operator productivity with less time to reposition the machine or trucks to load and unload materials.” The advantages are pretty clear when it comes to size, said Boehme – not only in length, but in width. “Maybe the equipment needs to fit through a set of double doors; a compact telehandler can do that. The tradeoffs [with larger models] are typically that you won’t get as much

YOU DETERMINE HOW PRODUCTIVE OR VERSATILE THE MACHINE IS BY HOW MANY DIFFERENT TOOLS YOU CAN PUT AT THE END OF THE MACHINE. JOHN BOEHME, SENIOR PRODUCT MANAGER, JLG

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

>> JUNE 2020

lift height or reach and typically not as much capacity as larger, heavier models with more boom sections.” That said, the height and reach of super compact telehandlers are an advantage when compared to forklifts and skid-steer loaders. Telehandlers can place things on a roof or reach into a truck, unlike a skid steer or forklift in most cases, Boehme added, and the lighter weight means they can be operated in spaces with weight restrictions, such as parking garages or other structures. Steven Kiskunas, Manitou Group’s product manager for telescopic handlers, noted that compact telehandlers have the advantage of providing fourwheel drive and four-wheel steer movement in poor ground conditions. “The compact telehandler with its ground engaging boom design and additional ‘tool carrier’ heritage means that it brings an extra dimension to the jobsite compared to wheel loaders and skid steers.” Early said that Skyjack’s SJ519 TH model is capable of using a wider variety of attachments such as carriages, forks, bucket, high-capacity jib boom, and truss carrier in addition to skid-steer attachments when the machine is outfitted with Skyjack’s skid-steer attachment adaptor plate. “This means that the SJ519 TH can do the work of a wheel loader or a skid steer yet also lift material to height.” While forklifts can often be used both inside and outside, Elvin said that most compact telehandlers, including Snorkel’s SR5719 are available with optional non-marking high grip tires.

The lift can be used both on rough terrain and on concrete slab. Snorkel now also offers its diesel-powered SR5719 compact telehandler in an all-electric version, the SR5719E. “This lithium-ion battery powered compact telehandler delivers equivalent performance as the diesel version, including powerful four-wheel drive, but with the added benefit of zero emissions and less noise. This means that it can be used during all stages of construction, even indoors during final fit-out stage,” said Elvin.

Built for more than just forks

“You determine how productive or versatile the machine is by how many different tools you can put at the end of the machine,” said Boehme. “For telehandlers, popular attachments are generally buckets, forks and carriages, lifting hooks for lift, carry and place work. Specialized attachments are called upon for applications that are more unique in nature.” A benefit of compact telehandlers is their ability to use skid-steer attachments. Skid-steer loaders use a universal coupler – an attachment that fits one skid steer will typically fit another. Compact telehandlers can be equipped with a skid-steer coupler instead of the regular telehandler coupler so contractors can use the same attachments on both machine types. You can then use the skid steer attachments with the height and reach capabilities of a telehandler. “Bigger machines, such as those with 6,000+ pounds capacity, you rarely see equipped with a universal skid-steer coupler, because the attachments manufactured for skid-steer use aren’t intended for use on machines of that size and weight,” said Boehme. JCB offers three types of attachment couplers on its telehandlers: JCB Q-fit, compact tool carrier and the skid-steer coupler, which Yates said is the most popular option on the 505-20TC and 504-13TC models. “The skid-steer coupler allows the compact telehandler to be that Swiss Army Knife on the jobsite, rendering it useful in so many applications,” she said. “The skid-steer coupler allows the use of a set of forks to load/unload trucks, a bucket to move gravel, a grapple to clean large debris or even a sweeper to clean up trash or dirt on a roadway, just to name a few applications.” Taylor noted that the Genie GTH-5519 telehandler is equipped with a constant-flow auxiliary hydraulic circuit for use with rotating attachments, such as sweepers. “The advantage of this model is that it is designed to be versatile and fit a wide variety of applications. Skidsteer loaders, track loaders and small wheel loaders are designed primarily as earthmoving machinery. They can be adapted to perform other duties but can also be less adept at performing these jobs due to their purpose-built nature.”

JCB 505-20

SKYJACK SJ519 TH

GEHL RS4-14

IN-DEPTH REPORT: TELEHANDLERS

SNORKEL SR5719 The auxiliary hydraulics on Snorkel’s SR5719 provide flow of 18.5 gpm to run demanding attachments. As Manitou also manufactures skid-steer and compact track loaders, the company offers a full line of attachments that attach to the skid-steer coupler on its compact telehandlers. Kiskunas noted that grapple buckets are a particularly popular skid-steer attachments used by compact telehandlers for site cleanup.

Buying and rental tips

It is important for buyers to know about available skid-steer couplers and what type of attachments they may need when purchasing a compact telehandler, said Boehme. If they own a skid steer they may already own some of what they need. “Buyers should also know the model’s weight,” he added. “There are a lot of different compact telehandlers out there, so weight will help them

determine if the unit they are considering can be pulled by the truck/ trailer combinations available to them that will be used for transporting the unit between jobsites. If they do not have adequate transport equipment, the unit might have to be delivered – adding costs and potentially delays based on availability of the transport company.” Researching width and length is also important if you want to

COST EFFECTIVE. EFFICIENT. LIGHTWEIGHT.

1-844-GO-RIVAL 14

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

>> JUNE 2020

Rival Hydrovac Inc. Box 5, Major, SK S0L 2H0

rivalhydrovac.com

self-trailer, which Boehme emphasizes is a huge advantage of compact equipment. “There are a lot of choices in the compact telehandler market and while many models may seem the same, some things to consider would include reviewing the actual load chart for the telehandler; this will show the true working capability of the telehandler and not just the maximum values to ensure the telehandler can perform all the work necessary,” said Yates. Boehme added that critical to any telehandler purchase is making sure the model selected has the right lift height and reach. Any OEM or distribution partner can help customers determine which model or models are suitable for the work to be completed. “When looking to purchase or rent, a contractor should first consider the likely weight of the loads that they need to carry, plus where those loads will be placed, such as a specific height. This will help the contractor identify the specifications of the telehandler needed. A further consideration, which is particularly important when looking to purchase, is how the telehandler will be transported between jobs. If looking to tow the telehandler, the contractor needs to review local requirements for size and weight,” said Elvin. “It is also important to take the time to sit in the cab,” added Yates. Just because a telehandler is compact doesn’t mean that the operator will be uncomfortable in the smaller cab. By sitting in the cab the operator will see firsthand the visibility to the jobsite, which is a vital safety consideration. HEG

EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION

GRADE CONTROL INTEGRATION ADDS TOOLS FOR EXCAVATOR OPERATORS Hitachi’s Solution Linkage Integrated Grade Control system uses Topcon technology By Lee Toop, Editor

he growth of grade control options has brought more efficiency and ease to excavation in recent years. Its evolution has steadily increased the amount of automation that operators can benefit from, and the trend has continued to improve the precision of excavators with each new addition. That precision is at the heart of a new offering from Hitachi that will integrate grade control into its Dash-6 excavators, allowing operators to set the grade they need and keep their machine there. Solution Linkage Integrated Grade Control, with Topcon technology, is aimed at improving efficiency and lowering daily operating costs for owners.

Response to needs of changing workforce

Introduced at CONEXPO 2020 on a ZX350LC-6 excavator, the new system is a response to the needs of a changing workforce while leveraging constantly developing technology. Jonny Spendlove, Hitachi product marketing manager, excavators, explained that the demand has expanded as new operators take over where those with experience step away from their machines into retirement. “Operators are getting older and closer to retirement, and you have new folks coming in, younger people getting into the operation role. As the workforce changes, closing productivity gaps is really a function of technology,” explained Spendlove during a walk-

through of the system at CONEXPO. Hitachi has offered systems with indicators as a reference system, which provides visual cues to the operator related to the position relative to grade. While that system continues to be popular and provides a more efficient grade control option, the new offering takes that to a new level. Components integrated onto the excavator right from the factory provide precise control of the bucket and boom of the machine while the operator controls the stick. The system then manages the location of the bucket tip as the grade nears, making for a more precise last few passes to reach the desired dig depth.

The system continues to rely on the operator for control, Spendlove noted. “We really want to focus on enhancing the way the operator digs. Our pilot control system allows the operator to enjoy the same controllability, the same functionality that they’ve always enjoyed on their Hitachi excavators,” he said. “Then, as they get down to that final pass, the grade control is really going to lock into place and it will keep the bucket tip at grade. . . that’s always been the challenging part for the operator – making sure you’re at that grade, not below.” Hitting grade on the first try cuts down on additional time and cost for backfill, he added. “The additional

aggregate you are going to put in there is just going to add up, and that's going to take away from your profit.”

Large, easy-to-read monitor

In the cab of the ZX350LC-6 on display at CONEXPO, the Solution Linkage Integrated Grade Control includes a large, easy to read monitor that is well placed to give the operator all the information needed to hit their grade with ease. The system is scalable, as well, offering owners 2D and 3D options. “If you have a contractor who really isn’t in the grade technology game yet he can start with a 2D guidance system and a rotating laser; you have a laser catcher on the arm and you can get the grade checker out of the hole,” he said. “Then as he gets more comfortable with grade technology you can upgrade to 3D guidance. . . we think there’s a lot of interest in the ability to upgrade, to dip a toe in and get more into grade technology more as they go along.” Other offerings from the new system include such things as virtual fencing, in which a perimeter can be set that keeps the machine inside a specific frame – that means the machine can work under obstacles like power lines without the worry of making contact, as well as setting a floor the machine can not dig beneath. There is also a payload weighing system that allows the operator to keep track of how much material is being moved. Wireless data transfer and remote display access are also available. HEG

JUNE 2020

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 15

LOWERING EXCAVATOR OWNERSHIP AND OPERATING COSTS A FLEET MANAGER’S GUIDE TO

Evaluate key features, learn best practices and better utilize machine-specific data

YOUR GOAL:

START BY EVALUATING MACHINE FEATURES AND THEIR IMPACT ON TCO

excavators in your current fleet.

When it comes to purchasing excavators, evaluate the features that provide you with the best value over the life of the machine. A few examples:

We know there are daily challenges that get in the way. Unexpected downtime, excessive fuel use and unintentional

• Fuel-saving features such as integrated work modes and auto idling. For most owners, fuel consumption is the first cost of operating an excavator. Built with nine different settings within four work modes, Volvo excavators

Control the operating costs of the

operator misuse — to name a few — all contribute to higher operating costs. Your choice of machine, and the service and technology provided by the OEM, can make a big difference in your operating costs — and ultimately, your total cost of ownership (TCO). Here are some things to consider:

allow operators to dial in the exact amount of power and control for the task at hand, while burning as little fuel as possible. The auto idle feature automatically switches the engine to the high idle setting after five seconds of inactivity, lowering the engine’s RPM and saving fuel. • Productivity features like Dig Assist. In-cab machine control systems show operators — in real time — how to level sites, dig trenches and grade slopes, or even create complex, multidimensional site profiles. They make operators much more accurate — ensuring they get the job done right the first time, every time. • Guarantees for less worry. Choose a machine with that comes standard with a lifetime warranty on the boom, arm and frame, as well as a fuel efficiency guarantee — as Volvo crawler excavators do.

Special Advertising Feature

LOWERING EXCAVATOR OWNERSHIP AND OPERATING COSTS

USE MACHINE MONITORING TO CORRECT PROFIT-DRAINING OPERATOR BEHAVIOR Evaluating machine features is only the start. To truly get the lowest TCO, you need to monitor how the machines are being used. Volvo ActiveCare Direct makes this incredibly easy. Monthly reports include information that empower you to train your operators in ways that can lower your TCO significantly. Examples include: • Limit excessive travel to reduce half your maintenance costs. Excessive excavator travel time is the number one cause of undercarriage wear. It puts a lot of stress on the tracks, sprockets and idlers, and these repairs can represent more than half of your machine maintenance costs. ActiveCare Direct monthly reports show excavator travel time by machine and across the whole fleet — making it easy to spot opportunities for operator training or site reconfiguration. • Reduce idle times to boost resale value by $20,000 and reduce service costs by $9,000. It’s important to first evaluate similar machines to determine if there’s a large variance in idle percentages. For example, if you had data to help an operator get the same amount of work done while reducing his idle time from 50% to 33%, the difference in lifetime hours could add $20,000 in resale value at the end of five years — not to mention the lower-hour machine would require five less service intervals over that time, estimated at a $9,000 difference. By tracking idle times with Volvo ActiveCare Direct, you can set realistic goals for improvement. • Train operators to use the right work modes and save $10,000 per year. Too often, operators have a tendency to jump directly into the highest mode, regardless of the task. With a Volvo excavator, balancing engine RPM with hydraulic flow is simple. Everything is integrated into a single dial to change both the pump flow and engine speed — a feature unique to Volvo excavators. With programs like ActiveCare Direct, you can track any operators who run in too high of a work mode and help them change that behavior. By simply switching to a lower work mode, you could be saving upwards of $10,000 per year, per excavator.

AVOID UNNECESSARY DOWNTIME So many telematics programs still send a large number of confusing fault codes — but those are becoming a thing of the past. ActiveCare Direct makes them simple and useful. With easy-tounderstand case alerts, you get the fault codes that went off, their probable causes, the specific action you should take, and the possible consequences if you don’t. It’s that simple. Learn more about how ActiveCare Direct simplifies fleet management by contacting your local dealer or visiting VolvoCE.com/ActiveCareDirect.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF

SPECIAL FINANCING NOW THROUGH AUGUST Ownership costs are another part of the TCO equation, and we’re committed to helping lower those, too. Right now, we’re offering incredibly low rates starting at 0% for 24 months on 2018 and newer excavator purchases through August 31. These offers are packed with flexible options like:

90-day payment deferrals Skip one payment per year Get a $1,000 credit on your Smart Commercial Account that can be used toward qualifying purchases — from parts and service to attachments and rentals

EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION

SHAPING THE SASKATOON EARTHMOVING SCENE

Allan Construction, part of Saskatchewan’s general contracting scene since the 1990s, relies on Bell articulated dump trucks for its earthmoving efforts By Lee Toop, Editor

We rented just about every type of rock truck out there and put them to work on the same site. They were run under the same conditions, and we found the Bell rock trucks to be the most fuel efficient. Kevin Arneson, Allan Construction

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

>> JUNE 2020

arge earthmoving projects offer up plenty of challenges for contractors of all kinds. It takes knowledge, experience and the right equipment to get the job done right every time – and Allan Construction has plenty of all three. A part of the Saskatoon, SK, contracting scene since 1992, Allan Construction has built a reputation as a talented and trustworthy operation when it comes to infrastructure work and other big jobs. The founders, husband and wife team Monte and Gail Allan, and their five business partners have steadily evolved the company from general contracting to projects crossing a wide variety of industry segments. Its contracts have expanded from the commercial sector into industrial and civil work. Kevin Arneson, Partner with Allan Construction, said the growth resulted in a need for subcontractors to handle their earthworks projects. “A lot of the time, [subcontractors] wouldn’t show up when we needed them, so we started buying our own small skid steers and other equipment to do our own work,” Arneson said. “We got into larger excavators for doing some deeper underground work, foundations and other projects, and it all grew from there.”

Today, Allan Construction has a large fleet of equipment and a regular staff of 80 to 100, with additional labour bringing that to 200–250 during the summer construction season. The company has numerous projects on the go; currently, the 40-ton and 45-ton rock trucks are being used on the expansion of a lagoon for the town of Pilot Butte, SK. As Allan Construction became more focused on earthworks projects and moving its own dirt on large contracts, the company found it needed a new approach to trucking material, Arneson said.

Efficiency the key

Efficiency is key on these kinds of jobsites, and when moving massive amounts of dirt, that efficiency has come in large part from their fleet of Bell articulated dump trucks. Combined with a long-term relationship with Bell dealer Wajax, Allan Construction has found that these tough trucks can get the job done with a big difference on the fuel bill – and on the bottom line. “Back in 2007, we were doing some work for a client, which turned out to be a large earthmoving project that didn’t work with conventional trucks. . . we were basically off road. That took us into the articulated dump trucks [ADTs],” he explained. “We

rented just about every type of rock truck out there and put them to work on the same site. They were run under the same conditions, and we found the Bell rock trucks to be the most fuel efficient. That was, and still is, a big deciding factor.” Allan Construction Partner Jody Materi said there was a very distinct difference between the previous trucks the company had used and the Bell ADTs. “We rented those Bells and never looked back – they were using half the fuel as the ones we had, and they never broke down. They were just bulletproof,” Materi said. “We got 9 litres per hour in the winter with those trucks. I was driving a (diesel-powered) pickup at that time, just driving around the site hauling people around, and I was using more than the rock truck was in fuel per hour.” That revelation drove Allan Construction to rent and purchase more Bell trucks, and that brought with it an expanded relationship with Wajax, the exclusive Canadian dealer for Bell. Kevin Haberman, service manager with Wajax in Saskatoon, said the two had worked together previously with purchases of Hitachi excavators, and when Bell came into the Wajax fold, Allan Construction came to them for support. “They had a previous fleet of older Bell Rock Trucks, and when Wajax became the

exclusive Bell dealer, Allan Construction relied on us for parts and service. David McKie, Wajax product manager – construction, explained that in 2017 Allan Construction wanted to modernize their fleet. “They were growing and taking on larger earthworks projects,” McKie said, “they were looking to increase their production, decrease downtime and lower their operating costs.” The Wajax team worked with Allan Construction to demonstrate the features of the new Bell ADTs, which led to the purchase of B30Ds, B40Ds, B45Es and B50Ds.

Popular with in-house mechanics

With years of experience on the Bell trucks, Allan Construction’s in-house mechanics can handle most of the maintenance that the machines require, Materi related. “Our mechanics love these trucks – we’ve gotten to know them quite well because we have so many of them. As far as simplicity, wiring, things like that, these trucks are easy to troubleshoot on the spot.” “Wajax is all about ensuring its contractor partners don’t lose out on uptime,” Haberman stated. When there’s warranty or other repairs to be handled, the standing relationship with Wajax brings plenty of benefits, Arneson noted, including a guarantee that they’re available 24/7 for emergencies and service work, no matter how remote or challenging the jobsite may be. “Any time we have to call them up, the dealership helps us out, without a doubt,” he added.

Fuel economy and ease of maintenance – with assistance from Wajax – are key reasons Allan keeps buying Bell trucks. Their operators like the trucks as well, McKie pointed out, thanks to their modern cab design. “The Bell cab is a safe and comfortable environment for the operator, with advanced features and controls to reduce the amount of effort required to operate the truck’s functions,” he said. Arneson agreed, noting that new operators appreciate the design of the Bell cabs compared to other rock trucks they have operated previously. In the redesigned E series cab, the operator is seated in a spacious, sound-suppressed interior with ergonomically placed controls and a fully adjustable air suspension seat, with auto height and weight adjustments. Truck functions are controlled through the easy-to-reach sealed switch module, and a 10inch colour monitor provides live feedback on operating conditions such as payload utilization, fuel economy, grade and slope of the haul road. Bell ADTs from Wajax include a fiveyear/10,000-hour Fleetm@tic subscription. Bell’s telematics technology offers information to users on truck location, productivity, shift information and condition. “All of our Bell trucks come standard with a load management system that communicates valuable production data from the truck to the user’s dashboard,” McKie said. “That payload information is shown by the hour, shift and

Volvo excavator auction earns $290,000 for charity

ICUEE is now The Utility Expo

As a result of the sale of its Gold Rush excavator, Volvo Construction Equipment has contributed $290,000 to two nonprofit organizations – Building Homes for Heroes and Habitat for Humanity. Volvo introduced the excavator to commemorate the 10th season of Gold Rush on Discovery Channel. The exclusive gold Volvo EC200E was auctioned off by Ritchie Bros. this February following a U.S. and Canada tour. The public cast approximately 1.5 million votes to choose which nonprofit should receive the larger value of the machine’s sale proceeds as part of the Discovery Give Big Giveaway campaign. With the votes in, 60 percent of the proceeds went to Building Homes for Heroes and 40 percent to Habitat for Humanity.

ICUEE is now The Utility Expo, emphasizing a commitment to focus on the needs of utility industry professionals. Since moving The Utility Expo (then ICUEE) to the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville in 1987, the show has consistently grown and provided more and better solutions to those involved in every sector of the utility industry. Trade Show News Network (TSNN) has certified it as the second-largest trade show in America in 2019, behind the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

cycle, and provides a clear picture of the truck’s fuel consumption per ton of material moved. This information can be vital in providing an accurate representation of the user’s operating costs, to help with future bids.” Fleetm@tic also helps improve efficiency on the jobsite, monitoring the time each truck spends on various sections of the haul road, McKie noted. The system alerts operations staff of inefficiencies – for example, if the truck is idling too long waiting to be loaded, indicating the loading unit may be too small. Thanks to a successful history of well-managed projects, the Bell ADTs that provide a strong backbone to its equipment fleet, and the solid support of its Wajax partner, Allan Construction is sure to be a fixture on the Saskatchewan contracting scene for the long haul. HEG

Stay updated on all the latest industry news. Sign up for our free newsletter at www.heavyequipmentguide.ca

JUNE 2020

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 19

ROADBUILDING

STRINGLESS PAVING HELPS AIRPORT EXPANSION PROJECT TAKE FLIGHT Challenging contract draws on capabilities of Topcon Millimeter GPS for precision and production success By Larry Trojak

We went with the Millimeter GPS from Topcon and, despite it being our first experience with that particular solution, we were very pleased with the results – pleased enough, in fact, to choose it for this project. Mike Darby, LaFarge Canada

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

>> JUNE 2020

he ongoing expansion and renovation of Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is a $5 billion CAD project (a 30-year plan that is actually $9.1 billion when adjusted for inflation) that reimagines what an airport needs to be in order to handle an already impressive growth curve that portends even bigger things ahead. So when work was needed to upgrade the runway and create a brand new remote stand operations area, the status quo also took a back seat to the latest GNSS-based solutions available. Using millimetre-grade, stringless milling and paving technology LaFarge Canada got impressive results in production, was able to keep crew size down, saved capital equipment costs, and met a challenging window for completion.

Looking at options

Much like its counterparts to the south – Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles – Vancouver and the larger British Columbia area are seeing record-setting growth and seemingly nonstop development. That influx of new residents, businesses and visitors has resulted in a dramatic upsurge of traffic into and out of YVR. In fact, estimates indicate that the airport – already well ahead of its target of reaching 25 million passengers by 2020 – will reach 31

million passengers per year by 2022. To better cope with that volume, changes are taking place in almost every segment of airport operations. According to Mike Darby, LaFarge’s involvement began several years ago. “At that time – it was early 2017 – we had landed a contract to do some milling for an overlay project on the south runway at YVR,” he said. “It was a three-month, 40,000 ton job and we felt it could be the perfect job for Millimeter GPS. Fortunately for us, 2017 was a CONEXPO year and we had plans to attend. Working with Mark Piotto and his team at the B.C. branch of Brandt Positioning Group, we all headed down to Vegas.” While there, Darby said they looked at two solutions – one from Topcon and one from a manufacturer on whose systems he had a lot of previous experience– so it afforded them a great opportunity to compare the two. The comparisons revealed some striking differences which made Darby’s decision much easier. In order to get tight vertical accuracies, the Topcon Millimeter GPS solution uses a base station and a series of lasers which create a laser zone accessed by receivers on the machine. By comparison, the other system they were considering uses a robotic total station for each machine. Because the YVR South Runway Project was calling for two mills and two pavers

– with machine control on all four pieces – that would have meant four different robots. “And, because of the distance we were paving every day, we could conceivably have needed twice that number,” said Darby. “At $60,000 to $80,000 per robot, that’s a huge investment.”

Remote stand demands precision

He added that, based on his experience with those robots, loss of signal when something comes between the robot and the machine – any of the 50-plus vehicles they’d have on site, for example – would be an issue. “If a dump truck blocks that robot, I lose the control on the machine,” he said. “Then, once he moves, the robot begins searching for that machine to re-connect. The production goals I had for that project – having milling done and the runway open in the morning – told me that solution would simply not work. We went with the Millimeter GPS from Topcon and, despite it being our first experience with that particular solution, we were very pleased with the results – pleased enough, in fact, to choose it for this project.” The project on which LaFarge brought the millimetre-grade solution to bear was a paving effort to create a remote stand operation (RSO), a gateless area at which aircraft – in this case aircraft heading to and from the U.S.

– would park upon landing. Passengers then deplane directly onto the tarmac and board buses which take them to the terminal. “This approach is widely in use at other airports – particularly many in Europe,” said Darby. “The area on which we were paving was once a standard parking lot, but, as part of the YVR redesign, is being re-purposed as an RSO for ten aircraft.” Because the specs for a structure capable of supporting nearly a dozen aircraft differ greatly from that of a standard parking lot, the general contractor, Jacob Bros., rebuilt the area from the gravel up using equipment with GNSS-based machine control. According to Nick Leuzinger, LaFarge’s general superintendent, the build-up was substantial – as much as a metre in spots. “Jacob Bros. used a high-speed John Deere 764 HSD dozer with GPS machine control for most of the subgrade work,” he said. “All told, they put down 600 mm of sand sub-base, 250 mm of crushed granular base, 175 mm of soil cement, and we are capping it all with 150 mm of asphalt. Most of our paving has been done in three 50 mm lifts, but the perimeter of the RSO, which will not be supporting aircraft, is only 100 mm of asphalt done in two lifts.” The fact that LaFarge opted for a stringless approach to paving the RSO is testimony to how confident they were in the solution itself. Darby said the contract actually called for stringline as the process of choice. “We knew how we wanted to do it and felt strongly enough about it that we opted to give YVR a credit through Jacob Bros. as an incentive to allow us to switch to Millimeter GPS,” he said. “Our reasons were more than simply personal preference. Using stringline, we would have had to add at least another four workers and a couple pieces of equipment. In addition, staging of the project becomes very difficult when dealing with string, particularly when the paving window is as compressed as this one was at six weeks.” To illustrate, he said that when paving started, not only was Jacob Bros. still excavating and laying down gravel and soil cement but at any given time there were as many as seven different trades working on the project. “There’s no way we could have had string running everywhere in that kind of environment. It would have been a nightmare; the stringless solution made the most sense and we went to bat for it.”

Production rates were excellent as well, according to Leuzinger. “We were shooting for rates in the 1,100 tons per day range – we got that and then some,” he said. “We’ve regularly been breaking 1,200 and 1,300 tons with a maximum of 1,550 tons. It should be noted that a good deal of the credit for our success out here has to do with Brandt’s help. We had some team members who were apprehensive about switching over from the way they’d normally paved. But Mark and his guys have been here all along, providing support, helping them realize it’s nothing to be afraid of, and getting them to trust the technology. Once they were over that hurdle, they took to it really quickly. In a short while,

He said theirs is the first division within LaFarge Canada’s group to make the move to Millimeter GPS, but suspects others will be following. “There has been some discussion among my counterparts in Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver Island to do so, but I think it’s more a case of them needing a project that is the right fit for it. Ours is the first Topcon system of this kind in all of British Columbia and after two projects now – one milling, one paving – we couldn’t be happier with how things have gone.” Larry Trojak is a technical writer. Note: YVR passenger estimates in this article were made before the global pandemic.

DON’T DIG IT. LET PW SPLIT IT. PIPE BURSTING

CULVERT REHAB

CARBON CREDITS APPROVED IN B.C. 2019

Building trust in the system

Working off the base Jacob Bros. used for the excavation and grading operation, LaFarge set up a pair of lasers which, combined with the GNSS function of the system, provided all the coverage they needed to ensure paving stayed within the prescribed 5 mm on a 5 m straightedge specs. Those two units represented a small fraction of the capital costs they would have incurred with the competitive system.

they were working independently which, for a system none of them had used before, is pretty impressive.” Even the most sophisticated technology sometimes has to take a back seat to good old fashioned visual inspection, and that’s the case as Darby looks back at work already done. “Thus far, we haven’t had to go back and repair any milling deficiencies,” he said. “Despite how complex the composition it and what it has to support, this is essentially a flat parking lot, and typically when we do something like this we will have some deficiencies. Using this solution with three lifts of asphalt, we haven’t had anything yet; that’s impressive to me and speaks volumes to the accuracy of the solution.”

SLIPLINING

Help your city reach CARBON NEUTRAL TARGETS by putting to use the quantifiable reduction in Carbon Emissions achieved when using ALL TRENCHLESS TECHNOLOGIES. Contact us to find out more.

TRENCHLESS CONSTRUCTION Up to 90% Carbon Emission Reduction Up to 50% Cost Reduction Less Disturbance to the Environment Less Disturbance to the Public

pwtrenchless.com

604.580.0446

JUNE 2020

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 21

ROADBUILDING

ADDITIVES TURN SOIL INTO SOLID RURAL ROAD SURFACES Enzyme-based materials help firm up roadways and save less populated regions money By Lee Toop, Editor

round the world, there are thousands of kilometres of rural roads that support farms, ranches, mines, forestry and other operations; these roads are vital to many people and businesses, but often are left unpaved for cost reasons. These roads, usually surfaced with gravel, tend to break down and require more regular maintenance than paved surfaces to keep them firm. There are a number of different tactics for solidifying road surfaces, but one company has taken a scientific approach to creating durable road surfaces at lower cost. Substrata’s approach to road surfacing focuses on the use of enzymes, a product its founder John Battistoni developed in the 1970s. Originally founded as International Enzymes, the company started out in soil stabilization, degreasing and deodorizing all done without problematic environmental effects. Today, the company has focused its efforts toward soil management in rural areas around the world, and now is targeting road construction and maintenance, according to CEO Royal Marty. “Before I purchased the company we did the majority of our business internationally in developing countries; they rely a lot on unpaved roads,” Marty described. “But you know, I think a lot of people forget about the amount of unpaved roads we have here in North America – there are thousands upon thousands of miles of unpaved roads in the U.S. and Canada. . . a lot of rural areas that rely on infrastructure but don’t necessarily have the budget to build a regular asphalt road that will cost millions of dollars.”

Rural unpaved roads can be made nearly as solid as concrete thanks to enzyme additives that create a firm long-lasting surface. Stabilize native clay soils

Where asphalt paving is less feasible for financial reasons, unpaved roads provide key travel routes. In most cases they will be compacted and covered with gravel, but that requires regular maintenance work to keep the surface smooth and ensure safe travel. Substrata’s Perma-Zyme soil stabilizing product combines with native clay soils to firm up the surface much more effectively than simple gravel covering. When the product is applied, enzymes interact with the clay particles in the soil and create an electrochemical reaction that permanently bonds the material together, Marty explained. “You come through with a grader,

Perma-Zyme is added to road surfaces mixed with water after the surface has been broken up; it must then be rolled to finish the process. 22

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

>> JUNE 2020

a blade or a till and rip up the soil, bringing fresh soil from underneath. Then you come through with a water truck that has Perma-Zyme in it – it’s heavily diluted; for a kilometre of twolane road you would need two five-gallon pails,” he explained. “You spray that onto the soil, then come through with a grader and mix it into the soil as much as possible. Then you compact it – that’s the most important part of the process, because that’s what starts the electrochemical reaction.” On an unpaved road, the structure formed by Perma-Zyme is much firmer than might be gained by other methods, Marty said, and much more stable. “Most unpaved roads have gravel or another material on the top, and you have to constantly be reapplying that gravel. When you use Perma-Zyme, you’ll probably put a layer of gravel on the top of the road, just to increase the friction, but that gravel’s not going to go anywhere – it’s just going to stay right on top,” Marty explained. The surface is expected to last around 10 years with little to no maintenance, Marty said. In some places, it is also being used as a base layer for paved roads. “We have a lot of rural areas where they’ll apply Perma-Zyme, mix it into the soil and compact it, then instead

of putting down a layer of asphalt 8 to 12 inches thick, they’ll just put a few layers of double chip seal down on top of it,” he said. “Perma-Zyme is giving you the strength you need for that road, and then the chip seal gives you a nice load-bearing surface.”

Cold weather not a problem

Perma-Zyme also helps cut down on dust problems – a frequent challenge on rural roads – and is able to handle cold weather as well. “It can go through freeze-thaw conditions just fine. . . if we go back to the electrochemical bonding, those particles are permanently bonded together, and when that happens no water can seep down into the soil. When it freezes and thaws, nothing can get between those particles and cause them to expand or contract,” Marty described. While much of its business has been done overseas thus far, Substrata has been working with a number of North American rural communities and finding success with its products, both for unpaved and surfaced roads. “We have been focusing a lot on working with rural areas in North America to provide them with a solution that will help them, either for their unpaved or paved roads, at a cost-effective rate,” Marty said. HEG

AGGREGATES & QUARRIES

DOOSAN GOES BIG FOR AGGREGATE OPERATIONS

New trio add to top end of machine ranges with rugged production and power By Lee Toop, Editor

ggregate production operations are driven by production – the more product moved in the quarry, the better for the bottom line. Large machines that can stand up to the rigours of mining while moving material in large quantities are in high demand. For Doosan Infracore North America, those aggregates market needs have been top of mind as the company launches a series of machines at the upper end of the size range. Those machines – the company’s largest wheel loader, excavator and articulated dump truck to date – are intended to give aggregates and mining operators more production along with solid uptime and operator comfort. “These are the results over time of customer requests in specific applications that, in the past, may have been niche markets. The need has grown into the ability for us to support development of a product for those needs,” explained Aaron Kleingartner, Doosan product and dealer marketing manager.

Specific aggregates needs

Doosan’s machines are well-established for the construction market, but aggregates operations have some differing needs that must be considered, Kleingartner said. “One of the use cases that may be a little different than a traditional construction machine is the repetitive application – loading trucks, for example, with a wheel loader or excavator in an aggregate facility, or in the mining space performing overburden removal, where the machine is staying in a relatively confined area moving a large amount of material into trucks,” he said. “That repetitive nature of constantly loading trucks or performing similar tasks changes the way customers look at productivity, whether it’s material moved per hour or day, material moved per amount of fuel burned per machine. These metrics are a little different from a traditional construction application.” The newly introduced DL580-5 wheel loader is

a good example of Doosan’s approach to aggregates operation needs while still providing benefits for heavy-duty construction tasks as well. Larger than the previous, and still available, DL550-5, the new machine provides two-pass loading for 24-ton trucks thanks to a variety of updates. “The machine is a little heavier and the lift arm is more robust. The kinematics of the hydraulic system in the front has been altered a little to handle those heavier loads that these machines are asked to lift day in and day out, which allows us to put a bigger bucket on the machine,” Kleingartner said.

Easier control for repetitive operations

Repetitive operations like loading trucks all day can be tiring for the operator, something that Doosan has taken into consideration on the DL580-5, which features electric steering as standard. That helps in situations where the operator is making the same motions throughout their shift.

The new DA45-5 ADT also offers aggregate producers productivity with a 45-ton capacity, up from Doosan’s previous 40-ton truck, along with its own features for operator comfort and safety. A new self-levelling front suspension allows for a better ride, especially when running empty. Inside, the cab is focused on providing the operator a good place to spend the work day. Doosan’s newest and largest excavator, the DX800LC-7, comes with features that are targeted to the aggregates and mining market targeting power and efficiency. “The DX800 is an 80-ton excavator, the largest in our lineup in North America, and we’re bringing it to the aggregates and mining for customer to efficiently load and move material quickly,” Kleingartner described. “We have a much larger standard bucket than any of our other machines.”

Mass excavation configuration

The DX800LC-7 launched at CONEXPO 2020, and customers were shown a new mass excavation configuration to the boom and arm. “The mass excavation boom and arm configuration makes it easier to load trucks more efficiently, as well as be more efficient with the breakout forces available in the hydraulic system for jobs like overburden removal,” Kleingartner said. “There are some tweaks that were made based on the boom and arm size, the bucket size and others that make the machine more impactful in aggregates use.” Standard features in Doosan machines like rear and side view cameras for safety and telematics that allow fleet managers to track their equipment and respond quickly to maintenance issues also benefit aggregates operators, Kleingartner added. “That particular machine has a number of improvements inside the cab that include a new touch display which will allow the operator to write on the display, change a number of configurations within the machine like the power or work mode they’re working with,” he said. HEG JUNE 2020

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 23

AGGREGATES & QUARRIES

ECONOMICAL CRUSHING PLANT OFFERS EXCEPTIONALLY LARGE FEED OPENING

NOUVE OPTIM AU ISÉ

THE ULTIMATE TELEHANDLER

YOU DESERVE! INCOMPARABLE OPTIONS AND MODELS AVAILABLE EFFICIENCY AND PRODUCTIVITY GIVE PROFITABILITY OPTIMIZED SOLUTIONS FOR EACH SPECIALIZATION

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

>> JUNE 2020

he new Cedarapids CRC320 plant features the TG320 300hp bushing cone crusher with an exceptionally large feed opening. This economical portable plant runs smoothly with the optional patent-pending “canted” jack system. Easily transported on the road or onsite, the all electric plant takes the TG Series cones portable to fit a variety of layouts and applications. The TG320 can be easily and efficiently set up to perform and deliver the best cost per ton cubicle product by selecting the optimum crushing cavity and eccentric throw to suit the application requirements. The 300hp (225 kw), 1,800 rpm motor and crusher are mounted on a rubber isolated frame, common between modular, portable and static platforms. The CRC320 combines the TG320 cone crusher and a 15 hp, 42-inchwide discharge conveyor on a portable all electric chassis. The crusher is fitted with an overflow chute and removable overflow panel so the overflow can buffer feed surges in a closed circuit application. The trailer width and length allow easy movement from site to site. The plant has a variety of jack options available from simple crank landing to unique patent pending “canted” run-on jacks that stabilize the movement of the crusher. The chassis also includes a 48-inch-long (1,219 mm) lockable side-mounted storage box. Safety and ease of maintenance are forefront in the design of the CRC320 plant. Emergency stop buttons are located on both sides of the frame. Service platforms with elevated observation deck, guard rails and access ladder as well as a convenient sloped stair/ladder provide safe access around the plant for inspection and maintenance. Maintenance-friendly features such as diamond plate walkways provide easy cleanup along with remote grease lines and easy ground access to cone lubrication. The CCM automatic switchgear panel gives easy one-touch control for single plant or multi plant operation without the expense and complexity of a central control and the plug and play design allows you to work with any combination, sequence, or number of plants without the need for custom programming.

UNDERGROUND CONSTRUCTION

FIBRE INSTALLATION DRIVES RURAL MANITOBA HDD CONTRACTOR By Kayla Breja

onnectivity and productivity are important to everyone, especially when the world is mostly busy at home. In rural areas, the spread of high-speed internet access has been slow. For one company, though, it has become the basis for its operations. High Speed Crow is a trusted name in providing high-quality fibre and wireless internet services for much of rural Manitoba. Company President Bryan King said it has been his mission to deliver the same levels of internet access to his rural neighbours as people living in the city. “From businesses in smaller communities competing with large companies to giving our young people access to the same educational tools that city kids have, high-speed internet access isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity no matter where a person lives,” he explained. “Our job at High Speed Crow is to deliver access to over 7,000 square miles (18,130 square kilometres) of rural Manitoba using fibre and wireless broadband.” King started High Speed Crow in 2003, after growing up in rural Canada and spending the early part of his career working and living in several technology hubs throughout North America. “I was working on projects for companies from South America to China, and I needed a reliable internet connection,” said King. “When I wasn’t able to get a good connection, I found myself asking, ‘Why can’t I get internet as crows fly?’ From that day forward, I’ve made it my mission to answer that question for myself, as well as everyone living in the area.” In High Speed Crow’s early years, the company only delivered wireless service. However, in 2015, King decided to expand the company’s services as the demand for higher internet bandwidths grew, and wireless service would no longer be enough in more densely populated areas. After exploring his options for installing fibre in the area, King concluded it was in his customers’ best interests to perform the work themselves.

Expanding operations

It didn’t take long for High Speed Crow’s workload to outgrow what they could do with their first machine, a single Vermeer LM42 vibratory plow. Within a few months, the team added a Vermeer RTX1250 ride-on tractor, a Vermeer V500 vacuum

excavator and a Vermeer D9x13 S3 Navigator horizontal directional drill. The big vibratory plow is used to install the system’s backbone, the small plow is used for short drop and the D9x13 is used in more sensitive ground conditions, hooking businesses as well as homes. The vacuum excavator is also an essential part of the process to help them avoid existing buried infrastructure and support their drilling crew. To further speed up the process of building out High Speed Crow’s fibre network, the company also added a new Vermeer D20x22 S3 Navigator horizontal directional drill and then added a new D24x40 S3 Navigator horizontal directional drill. “These two drills give us the ability to do longer shots and work in more challenging and rocky ground conditions,” stated King. “Another handy machine we added to our fleet is the Vermeer SPX25 vibratory plow. It’s a small, remotely operated unit that gives us the ability to plow in fibre in tight working quarters. It’s quick, easy to use and requires very little restoration work after a drop is done.” From the start of High Speed Crow’s expansion into fibre, the company has relied on Vermeer Canada for its utility equipment needs. “I picked Vermeer machinery because we needed dependable equipment that would maximize our working time every summer,” King said. “Vermeer has always had a great reputation, and I have always heard from utility contractors working in the area that Vermeer Canada is a reliable partner. We’ve certainly had a wonderful working experience with our dealer and Vermeer over the years.” The bulk of fibre installation work for High Speed Crow happens during the summer months, which means crews need to be ready to roll each spring when the weather gets nice. On average, crews install 150,000 feet to 180,000 feet (46,720 m to 54,864 m) of fibre each year, one town at a time. The amount of work done ranges because the soil conditions in the area can be a bit unpredictable. Most of the time, crews work in softer soils, but every now and again, there are some patches of hard rock. “This past summer, we had a particularly challenging 2-mile (3.2-km) stretch of bad rock that we brought in an excavator with a breaker to work our way through,” King said. “In hindsight, we should have swapped out the vibratory plow on the Vermeer RTX1250 with a rock saw attachment. I think that would have been more efficient. We’re always learning on the job and identifying ways we can get better. It’s what makes it fun for our crews and helps us improve.”

King pushes his team to do the best job they can for the customers they serve. “We aren’t just providing services to communities,” he explained. “Our customers are also our neighbours. So, if we leave a mess or don’t do right by them, we hear about it on the street, the grocery store, at church or wherever we’re at. It’s that level of connection that makes all of this so rewarding.”

Safety part of company pride

Doing right by the team members working for High Speed Crow is also something important to King. “From day one, we instilled the importance of safety with everything we do,” he said. “We cross-train our crews so everyone knows the process required out of everyone on a team. Also, we hold morning tailboard meetings to review what’s on the schedule for the day and discuss any safety-related steps that need to be taken on a particular project. Ongoing open communications help keep everyone informed and doing their job safely and efficiently.” The company’s commitment to safety was recently recognized when the team received the 2019 Manitoba North America Occupational Safety and Health (NAOSH) Award for its efforts in creating a healthy and safe work environment. When an individual on his team goes above and beyond, King awards them with a “challenge coin.” The idea for the coin started after a conversation with a friend who was doing something similar in his business, King explained. “We came up with criteria for what we believed warranted receiving the coin and designed our own coin. We have a crow on one side and a digging Dutchman (similar to an older version of the Vermeer logo) on the other side. It’s an honour inside our organization to receive a coin and helps reinforce the kind of culture we’re trying to create.” The team at High Speed Crow moves forward every working season, trying to outdo what they accomplished the year before. King doesn’t believe they will ever be done with expanding their fibre network in the metro Winnipeg region. “As demand for highspeed internet grows, so will our responsibilities to our customers,” he said. “We’ve been here delivering on our promise during today’s uncertainties, and we’ll be there for them when life gets back to normal.” Kayla Breja is product marketing lead with Vermeer. JUNE 2020

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 25

EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE & MANAGEMENT

REBUILDING REAPS BENEFITS

Today’s expanded rebuild options drive down total cost of ownership and help companies get the most from their equipment By Rick Zettler

achine and component rebuilds for heavy construction equipment are part of many contractors’ fleet management plans. Today, contractors target tens-of-thousands of operating hours, multiple service lives and low total cost of ownership (TCO) from a machine by implementing a regimented maintenance plan and multiple machine rebuild strategies. “Service departments consistently following the machine’s suggested maintenance schedule, oil sampling guidelines and monitoring telematics data will typically realize the lowest total ownership costs,” comments Dave Matranga, a Caterpillar market professional for engines and Cat Certified Rebuilds (CCR). “Include a rebuild strategy into the mix, and companies can drive down TCO even further.” Expanded rebuild options weren’t always the industry standard. As recently as the early 1980s, equipment manufacturers didn’t offer certified machine rebuilds. If a contractor wanted a “like-new” piece of equipment, well, buying new was the only option. In response to challenging economic conditions and voice-of-customer requests, Caterpillar was among the first heavy equipment manufacturers to introduce its CCR program in 1984, which gave contractors a “like-new” machine at a lower cost alternative to buying new. The machine was rebuilt from the frame-up – axles to cab – with the goal of getting more than a just few thousand extra hours out of the machine. “The ‘like-new’ product offered a second life for the machine,” comments John Baptiste, project 26

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

>> JUNE 2020

engineer – Caterpillar Certified Rebuild Products. Matranga adds, “The first units rebuilt through our CCR program were Cat D8K dozers. These dozers offered comparable performance and appearance to their brand-new counterparts with similar extended protection plans and financing rates and options, so they were, indeed, ‘like-new’.” The typical CCR machine rebuild included approximately 7,000 part numbers either replaced or refurbished. Over time, trends showed better maintained and operated equipment resulted in more reusable parts, lowering machine rebuild cost. “A welltrained operator goes a long way in maximizing machine life,” comments Eric Mathewson, senior parts specialist for Caterpillar Undercarriage and Ground Engaging Tools (GET). “Working a side-slope in one direction too long or improper use of the bucket were instances that led to uneven wear and a shorter life for wear items and machine components.” Rebuild programs like CCR were well received by contractors and participation rates remained relatively consistent over the years. However, the extensive program left out companies that wanted targeted system or component rebuilds, so manufacturers responded with options to meet those customers’ needs. “In 2001, we introduced our Certified Power Train rebuild program that upgrades only the systems that move the machine, and participation in our rebuild program tripled,” offers Matranga. “Caterpillar then expanded the program to include Certified Engine Rebuilds, Certified Hydraulic Rebuilds and Certified Machine Component rebuilds over the following years, and program participation rose significantly. Companies realized that reusing components, versus scrapping or landfilling, lowered TCO plus improved sustainability.”

What’s the standard?

Baptiste recommends working with the dealer even before machine purchase to review applications, how long it is anticipated to remain in the fleet and the company’s expectation for uptime availability. This allows the dealer to run a life cycle analysis and have targeted maintenance and rebuild solutions planned. “We have some customers who run their operations 24-7 and demand machine uptime availability in excess of 90 percent,” says Baptiste. “The dealer preschedules downtime for maintenance and rebuilds at prescribed intervals, so the equipment is better able to meet this uptime expectation,” he says. While some may assume that all rebuilds are equal, this is not the case. When it comes to rebuilds, selecting a provider just on initial price-point can sacrifice post-rebuild machine life and productivity. Over the years, manufacturers have developed rebuild standards. Caterpillar, offering more than 35 years of experience with its CCR program, provides its dealers with detailed reuse and salvage guidelines specific to machines like dozers, excavators, trucks and loaders. These documents guide dealers through properly inspecting components for reuse or salvage, based on extensive rebuild history and conservative criteria. This is designed to provide more consistent rebuild results, regardless of where it is performed. Baptiste mentions friction disc replacement and Thermal Spray as examples of where the reuse and salvage guidelines help to lower rebuild costs. “Other companies may overlook the reusability of friction discs or plates and buy new. Caterpillar has an 18page document with pictures to help our dealers identify which items can be reused or reconditioned,” he says. “We also offer Thermal Spray guidelines for components like hydraulic cylinder rods, so they can

be salvaged for another life.” Matranga adds that Caterpillar guidelines require all switches, harnesses and sensors be replaced during a rebuild. “The highest equipment downtime drivers are miscellaneous items like sensors and switches, so our guidelines require these be replaced whereas other providers do not,” he says.

Changing machine designs

Like rebuild programs, not all machine designs are created equal. Contractors must investigate if a machine is built with components designed for a second or third life. With certified rebuild offerings becoming the norm, equipment designs have evolved over the years with a vision of extending machine service life. “We test our frames using the most severe applications the machine will face in the field to extend the welds, especially the hidden ones, well beyond the first or second machine life,” offers Mike Chica, medium wheel loader large structure engineer for Caterpillar. The New Product Introduction (NPI) program at Caterpillar starts with a very prescriptive process, from concept to production, detailing machine and customer requirements. One component of the program requires the NPI team to complete a repair process engineering template, which serves as a check of repairability of various machine systems, correlating to machine rebuildability. “NPI is about meeting the brand promise and trying to extend the life of machine subsystems,” mentions Patrick Hill, life cycle manager for Caterpillar medium wheel loaders. “The group is passionate about meeting customer life cycle needs.” Vic Simkus, medium wheel loader engineer for Caterpillar, is adamant that the quest for component longevity must also include the manufacturer’s suppliers of purchased finished components. “The manufacturer cannot abdicate quality to the component supplier,” he says. “At Caterpillar, we focus on reliability metrics to increase machine longevity and work with the supplier to put our intellectual stamp on it.”

Advanced monitoring

Monitoring machine performance plays a critical role in helping to extend a machine’s service life and rebuild intervals. This begins with the basics of following the prescribed maintenance intervals and having a welltrained operator communicate any issues with the shop. “Our goal is to have companies catch issues at the Level 1 parts stage, which are parts designed to wear, are not rebuildable and protect the more expensive machine components that can be rebuilt,” says Mathewson. “Catching issues early increases uptime availability and drives down the TCO,” he adds. Routine fluid sampling through programs like Cat S∙O∙S Services provide insight to internal component wear and potential failure. This data analysis allows contractors to plan for any necessary component repair or rebuild. “Trends like increased metal fragments in the oil give an owner the necessary data to make proactive service decisions,” says Matranga. A machine’s duty cycle in the field, rather than machine hours, offers a better indicator of service life and rebuild interval frequency. Advanced monitoring of field fleet equipment through telematics provides insight as to how a machine is used in the field. “We track fuel burn, which is a key indicator of the machine’s workload,” says Matranga. “The higher the fuel

While a complete certified rebuild includes roughly 7,000 part numbers, there are also targeted rebuild programs for powertrains, engines, hydraulics and components. burn, the higher the workload and the shorter the time period is between rebuilds.” Matranga also points to recent developments in remote services as the next evolutionary step in digital machine monitoring to catch field issues early, extending time between rebuilds and lowering TCO. “Our dealers can now run diagnostics remotely through Cat Remote Troubleshoot and analyze real-time data to help reduce equipment downtime,” he explains. “It’s also possible to upgrade a machine’s latest software remotely through Remote Flash.”

Consider upgrades

The term “like-new” means just that to many manufacturers, as they push the boundaries of rebuilds beyond refurbishing or replacing the machine’s core components. Cat dealers offer customers the latest technology, wear parts and service updates available for a machine. This way, the rebuilt machine is expected to perform like a new piece of equipment coming off the assembly line. Several updates are automatically included during a rebuild performed by the dealer. “CCR rebuilds automatically receive appropriate updates that involve machine safety and critical performance upgrades,” mentions Baptiste. “For less critical engineering upgrades, customers can add those as options at the time of rebuild.” Mathewson advises companies not to ignore the working end of the equipment. Wear strips and work tools that protect the more expensive components are continually upgraded by manufacturers. “Our new hammerless GETs fill the bucket more efficiently and usually require about half the time to change, so upgrading work tools to get more from a machine is a worthwhile discussion to have with the dealer during a rebuild,” he says. The evolution of emissions standards has resulted in significant efficiencies in engine design, allowing them to last longer and, in some cases, save a considerable amount of fuel. “One customer upgraded from a Tier 2 to Tier 3 engine, and the fuel savings alone led to a return on investment, in this case, of about 1.5 years,” says Baptiste. A rebuild is also the right time to approach the dealer about available technology upgrades to optimize machine efficiency. Manufactur-

ers continually upgrade production-enhancing solutions like semi- and fully autonomous machine operation, grade, slope, and payload technologies. “Our technology is backward compatible within a model series, so an earlier model receiving a certified rebuild can be equipped with the latest technology,” mentions Matranga. Whether it’s to extend a machine’s service life, lower TCO or enhance production efficiency, certified rebuilds offer contractors another avenue for getting a “like new” machine at about half the cost of purchasing a new machine. “Certified rebuilds should be considered as a part of a company’s fleet management strategy,” offers Mathewson. “Equipment dealers will be able to walk customers through the rebuild process and help them get the most from the rebuild.” Rick Zettler is a technical writer who covers the construction equipment industry.

3D Paving Technology with Easi-Pour Compact 880

Invest in the most proven concept in slip-form paving equipment from Easi-Pour. 3D paving technology makes you more efficient and profitable. Ergonomically designed with unparalleled dependability for your concrete paving applications. Ease of operation coupled with the best operator visibility in the industry makes your jobsite safer and more productive. Curb & Gutter | Sidewalk | Barrier | Drainage Ditch | Special Applications www.easipour.com | 605-352-1412 | OVB Holdings, LLC

Easi Pour 2020 quater page.indd 1

JUNE 2020

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 27 2020-01-31 12:02:17 PM

TELEMATICS

TELEMATICS SYSTEM OFFERS NEW WAYS TO IMPROVE EARTHMOVING EFFICIENCY The system is available for retrofit and in testing for new machines By Lee Toop, Editor

crapers have been a reliable and easy to use earthmover for many years. These machines, usually towed by another machine, are easy to put to work – they pick up dirt and carry it to another spot as part of bulk material moving duties. Telematics aren't usually the first thing that a scraper owner might associate with their machine, but as technology expands that is changing. K-Tec Earthmovers has focused on making its scrapers smarter for some time now, and a new telematics system is intended to improve scraper operations, add efficiency and increase productivity on pull-pan machines. “Traditionally, the pull-pan scraper has been a utilitarian towed-unit attachment. . . K-Tec has spent years of

K-Tec’s new scraper telematics system provides operators and owners a range of information, including productivity indicators and maintenance alerts, both in the cab and remotely.

research and development in refining the optimal earthmoving scraper,” said Shane Kroeker, K-Tec director of strategic initiatives.

Cloud-based telematics

Over several years K-Tec has worked on developing and testing the telematics system on its scrapers, Kroeker said. The cloud-based system beams information from the jobsite to a software dashboard that allows owners to assess data and make better business decisions. “In addition to the proprietary software developed, a hardware kit is also integrated with K-Tec’s scraper and onboard computer and monitor display equipment,” Kroeker described. The hardware kit includes a “black box” transmitting via cellular networks, a shark-fin antenna for telecommunications and a wiring package to connect hardware to the

cab. Available in both direct-mount scrapers and those designed for use with ADTs, the company is preparing a retrofit kit for older models. Once installed, K-Tec scraper telematics offer benefits to everyone from the operator to service technicians and the back office. Operators receive real-time feedback on an in-cab display to help them optimize load count and payload capacity, while on the service side mobile message notifications can alert technicians when maintenance needs to be done, or when there are fault codes reported. Reminders pop up to ensure that scheduled maintenance like greasing, tire pressure checks and cutting edge inspection is done at the proper intervals. “Site supervisors may view jobsite cycle time and load time performance, with average hauling speed and distances, on a tablet in the comfort of their pickup as one benefit to ensure a smooth and productive operation,” Kroeker said. “Business owners can benefit by calculating their cost of moving material from the office, while protecting their investment with anti-theft GPS tracking on scrapers across various jobsites.”

Scaling on the move

Developing a system that integrates into the company’s pull-pan scrapers has proven a challenge for K-Tec, and there have been plenty of adjustments along the way. One area that got a second look along the way thanks to feedback from customers 28

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

>> JUNE 2020

was the ability to scale on the move, Kroeker said. “We recognized that it was critical to have scaling-on-the-go functionality, instead of having the operator stop their machine to get a scale value for the load,” Kroeker described. “In order to get simple and accurate dynamic scaling outputs we had to develop a complex algorithm in reading and analyzing the hydraulic pressure of the machine and calculate it against a specific correction factor for each model of scraper we manufacture. This resulted in a substantial amount of field trials and data cross-checking analysis to ensure that our accuracy is acceptable for the contractors’ requirements.” Since the system was introduced at CONEXPO 2020, there has been a steady stream of interest in beta testing of the system, as well as in the retrofit kit, Kroeker said. The growth of telematics in construction use is such that K-Tec expects it to be top of mind for contractors buying earthmoving equipment in the near future, Kroeker said. “K-Tec is convinced that this telematics system will be a game changer for earthmoving operations in regards to daily productivity and efficiency, as operators will be competitively motivated to become the top fleet performer,” he said. “Furthermore, with the user-friendliness of the service alerts, preventive maintenance will maximize machine uptime to protect the investment in the equipment.” HEG

HIGHLIGHTS FROM >> HeavyEquipmentGuide.ca

TECHNOLOGY

ADVERTISER INDEX Ahern Canada....................................................7 Bit Brokers International.................................28 Buffalo Turbine................................................29 Easi-Pour.........................................................27 GOMACO.........................................................32 John Deere.........................................................3 Link-Belt Excavators.........................................2

First commercial 3D concrete printer with Sika technology now in operation

Mack Trucks......................................................4 Manulift............................................................24

WATCH THIS

Metso Minerals................................................31 PW Trenchless Construction Inc....................21 Rival Hydrovac.................................................14 SANY Canada....................................................9 Volvo CE..................................................... 16–17 WinchKraft.......................................................19

How quiet is an electric excavator?

TRENDING

R ET

NT AGE E ID ER

V CO X 3 S / NE ED AD NGI QUIR E H LE E ZLE IESE OR R Z NO D AT • 3 4 HP ENER •7 OG •N

G DU AS • ST DI & O ESE DO L • R C EL ON ECT TR RI OL C EQ UI PM EN T

DUST

JUNE 2020

BU FFA LO TU RB IN E.C OM

World’s first heavy-duty 4x4 off-road crew transport bus earns Torsus Praetorian a Red Dot Award

O FAL

IN RB

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 29

LAST WORD KEEPING SAFE ON THE JOBSITE DURING COVID-19 THE CANADIAN CENTRE FOR OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY (CCOHS)

s workplaces and jobsites across the country continue to operate, and others begin to reopen their doors for employees to return to work after the coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown, many new norms will likely replace previously established routines. Employers will need to be prudent and careful while adhering to public health measures and legislation from their jurisdiction, to ensure the health and safety of their employees, their clients and the public. When opening jobsites, it’s important to understand that the coronavirus will still be circulating, and the risk of new infections is possible. A reduction in physical distancing and isolation measures does not mean the virus is gone; it means that infection rates have slowed enough that the health care system is expected to be able to handle the probable cases. If infection rates increase, another period of higher restrictive measures could be reintroduced, and workplaces will need to adjust accordingly. As part of a return to work plan, employers should consider performing a

deep cleaning of the facilities and jobsites before workers return, and make sure that good sanitation practices are in place once business resumes. On jobsites, set up handwashing stations and place hand sanitizers near entrances and exits; the number of workers at one time should be minimized, and employers should stagger trades and their work locations, meetings, breaks, tool cribs, safety toolbox talks, and orientations. Designated travel paths should be mapped out, so workers do not have to pass each other closely (e.g., one set of stairs for up, another for down) and have control site movement to reduce gathering at scaffolds, hoists, washrooms and other high-traffic areas. To help minimize the potential spread of infection, have workers submit hazard assessments and documents electronically, or make sure everyone washes their hands after handling papers. Employers must continue to take all reasonable precautions to protect the health and safety of workers by providing adequate information, training, sanitation, and personal protective equipment. Set a clear policy for what is expected of work-

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) promotes the total well-being – physical, psychosocial, and mental health – of workers in Canada by providing information, advice, education, management systems and solutions that support the prevention of injury and illness.

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

>> JUNE 2020

ers if they get sick, have symptoms, or if exposure is reported at the organization. Make sure staff are aware of this policy and make sure that all changes and expectations are communicated before re-opening jobsites and facilities (or as they continue to work) to ensure they are informed of any changes and can ask questions. Make sure workers know about the virus and how to minimize its spread. Post signs to remind people to practice physical distancing, good respiratory etiquette, and hand hygiene. Provide enough items for each worker such as phones, tablets, walkie-talkies and tools to avoid unnecessary sharing. If items must be shared, clean them with alcohol or disinfectant wipes between users. Keep in mind that every business is unique and there is no one-size-fits-all approach for reopening. It is important to follow any physical distancing or safety measures that remain necessary, monitor announcements for your area, and follow the latest instructions from the government, public health or other appropriate authority.

We’ve got the stock Inventory for thousands of Symons™ crusher parts.

Metso has supported Symons cone crushers since their first production with Nordberg in 1928. That’s nine decades of models and variations. Today, Metso is the only OEM supplier of Symons parts, with U.S. stock including frames, heads, and mainshafts, no matter the model: • 7’, 51/2’, and 41/4’ models • 7’ Normal Duty, Heavy Duty, Extra Heavy Duty, and Super Heavy Duty models Find your local Metso distributor at contact.metso.com.

Improve crusher productivity by up to 20% with new generation upgrades:

Hydraulic Lock Posts, Hydraulic Motor Bowl Adjustment, Hydraulic Tramp Release and Clearing, and Advanced Bowl Adjustment.

New

www.gomaco.com x info@gomaco.com “Dedicated to Concrete – Dedicated to You”. GOMACO offers the full range of concrete slipform pavers, curb and gutter machines, placer/ spreaders, texture/cure machines and bridge/canal finishing equipment. GOMACO equipment features our exclusive and proprietary G+® control system, created in-house by our software engineers from the wants and needs of contractors paving in the field. We’ll show you the new Navigator controller with a 10-inch touchscreen that allows ground personnel to simply control and view all attachments from one location. We are also introducing our new high-production system for the C-450 cylinder finisher for bridge decks and flat slabs. At the heart of GOMACO equipment is our passion for concrete and our commitment to our customers. We look forward to visiting with you about your upcoming paving projects and your concrete paving equipment needs. CONCRETE STREETS AND HIGHWAYS x AIRPORT RUNWAYS x CURB AND GUTTER x SIDEWALKS RECREATIONAL TRAILS x SAFETY BARRIER x BRIDGE PARAPET x BRIDGE DECKS x IRRIGATION CANALS GOMACO CORPORATION IN IDA GROVE, IOWA, USA x 712-364-3347

Heavy Equipment Guide June 2020, Volume 35, Number 6

Articles inside

Additives turn soil into solid rural road surfaces

Rebuilding reaps benefits

Doosan goes big for aggregates operations

Stringless paving helps airport expansion project take flight

Grade control integration adds precision tools for excavators

Shaping the Saskatoon earthmoving scene

Fibre installation drives rural Manitoba HDD operator

In-depth report: Compact advantage