Heavy Equipment Guide March 2023, Volume 38, Number 3

THE LATEST DOZERS DELIVER RUGGED PUSHING POWER

HOW MACHINE CONTROL AND AUTOMATIC TOOLS IMPROVE ACCURACY

JCB DEVELOPS HYDROGEN COMBUSTION ENGINE

New machines. Unseen tech. Two global leaders innovating across every aspect of your production systems. This is something to celebrate. Get ready for our largest booth yet — featuring more than 64 machines from Deere and the Wirtgen Group. From dirt to rock to road, we’ll have it in Vegas at CONEXPO-CON/AGG.

Leads the industry in innovation, manufacturing a wide variety of custom hauling solutions for the specialized transport industry. We specialize in designing custom solutions for hauling your unique loads.

FEATURE STORY

HOW MACHINE CONTROL AND AUTOMATIC TOOLS IMPROVE ACCURACY AND GROW THE BOTTOM LINE

THE LATEST DOZERS DELIVER RUGGED PUSHING POWER

JCB EYES HYDROGEN AS PART OF ZERO-EMISSIONS FUTURE

AUXILIARY HYDRAULICS DEMYSTIFIED

EDITOR IN CHIEF Kaitlyn Till ktill@baumpub.com

604-291-9900 ext. 330

EDITOR

Lee Toop ltoop@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 315

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Sam Esmaili sam@baumpub.com

604-291-9900 ext. 110

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER

Tina Anderson tanderson@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 222

COVER PHOTO: LIEBHERR’S PR766 GENERATION 8 CRAWLER DOZER

We take a look at the latest crawler dozers. Turn to page 22.

Fax:

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

Contact: Editor in Chief Kaitlyn Till at ktill@baumpub.com or 604-291-9900 ext. 330

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FROM THE EDITOR

ALTERNATIVE POWER IS HERE – AND THERE’S NO ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL SOLUTION

We’ve seen a range of different alternative power prototypes and production models from OEMs over the last several years – hydrogen fuel cell, hybrid, methane, HVO, hydrogen combustion, and battery electric. What has become clear is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for reducing CO2 emissions from heavy iron.

The high cost of components, unfamiliar maintenance procedures, fuel source availability, fuel cost, and run times are concerns that apply to different solutions. And none of these solutions works for every machine type or every job site. Some may never reach commercial viability, or may only be suited to niche applications, but all of these developments are impressive steps along the way to availability of zero-emissions propulsion solutions across the board.

Just ahead of CONEXPO, Cummins has announced its zeroemissions program, Accelera by Cummins, which is focused on developing zero-emissions solutions across the entire Cummins portfolio. Accelera is notably working on a variety of solutions including fuel cell electric, battery electric, and green hydrogen production.

Volvo Construction Equipment recently announced a battery conversion option for a mid-size wheel loader, and several more electric compact equipment introductions from a range of OEMs have been teased ahead of CONEXPO.

In January, I had the opportunity to travel to Staffordshire, U.K., to see firsthand the results of JCB’s hydrogen fuel cell excavator and hydrogen combustion engine programs. Developing new propulsion systems is hard, and there I saw two solutions: one that the company ultimately deemed successful, but impractical, and the other determined to be a practical, viable solution for future construction sites.

The hydrogen-fuel-cell-powered excavator was an exciting machine – its operation was near silent, which was impressive for such a big piece of equipment. Its only emission was a delightful puff of steam. Unfortunately, as you can learn in my article in this issue, this solution is currently impractical for the market.

The hydrogen-combustion-powered machines, currently backhoe loader and telehandler prototypes, were equally impressive – the JCB hydrogen combustion engine is a zero-emissions solution that would change very little in the day-to-day activities on the job site. I look forward to seeing how this program develops over the next few years.

I find it exciting when OEMs lift the veil to show these projects for what they are – iterations along the road to zero emissions and a sustainable construction industry. I look forward to seeing what heavy iron and power solutions OEMs have in store for us at CONEXPO this year. Be sure to check out the latest developments next month in the April issue of Heavy Equipment Guide and live from the show at heavyequipmentguide.ca.

Kaitlyn Till Editor In Chief

I find it exciting when OEMs lift the veil to show these projects for what they are –iterations along the road to zero emissions and a sustainable construction industry.

Th re e m a ch i n e s , one goal. Highes t qualit y.

WPS 62 (i): The WPS 62(i) placer/spreader rounds of f WIRTGEN’s slipform paving product portfolio It is always called for in situations where high productivity is required when paving over pre-placed steel rebar or when concrete can only be supplied from the side. Field-tested and proven slipform pavers like the SP 62(i) compact the concrete placed and spread before them and pave it true to grade and slope A texture curing machine like the TCM 180(i) can produce a transverse, diagonal or longitudinal surface texture and spray a homogeneous coating of a curing agent onto the concrete surface The result is a concrete surface that fulfils even the highest quality standards Take advantage of the innovative solutions from the technology leader in the road construction segment.

AEM RELEASES NEW PORTABLE ROCK CRUSHER AND SLIPFORM PAVER SAFETY MANUALS

AEM has released a pair of new safety manual titles that offer accessible content on safe practices to use when operating and maintaining portable rock crushers and slipform pavers.

The new portable rock crusher and slipform paver manuals provide up-to-date and industry-consensus resources that encourage safe equipment operation.

“AEM safety manuals couldn’t be created without the valuable insights and contributions of AEM’s member companies and their product safety experts, and these two manuals truly represent best practices for portable rock crusher and slipform paver operation,” says AEM Safety Materials Manager Becca Basten.

AEM’s safety materials are consensus documents that are developed, reviewed, and approved by committees empanelled by AEM, and they represent best practices for the industry. AEM’s safety materials program includes more than 55 manual titles, and they also include collateral such as videos, brochures, decals, and training kits.

Often an AEM safety manual is assigned a part number as part of a manufacturer’s production process to ensure it is included with other safety literature when the equipment is sold into the market.

“This integration with the manufacturing process helps AEM member companies by reinforcing their already existing risk management programs,” adds Basten.

When its first safety manual was published in 1969, AEM (then known as CIMA) set into motion a safety materials program that has grown and developed significantly over the half-century that followed. The goal was a simple one: Provide members with a safety manual that worked in lockstep with OEM publications and conveyed industry best practices for equipment safety. To accomplish that goal, the association enlisted members to set aside competitive differences and develop, review and approve consensus-based safety documents related to operating equipment.

AEM shipped 1.2 million units worth of safety materials to its members and the public in 2022. While North America was the biggest destination for those materials, AEM shipped its materials to Japan, Australia, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Italy, and Germany as well.

CNH INDUSTRIAL TO DISTRIBUTE TOBROCO-GIANT COMPACT WHEEL LOADERS IN NORTH AMERICA

CNH Industrial will distribute Tobroco-Giant’s compact and sub-compact wheel loaders under the CASE Construction Equipment and New Holland Construction brands in North America. Tobroco-Giant’s machines will bolster the existing lineup of compact wheel loaders that the CASE and New Holland brands currently produce and distribute.

The initial lineup provides compact and sub-compact wheel loader models ranging from one to five tons of operating weight, with various lift profile configurations. The range also includes CNH Industrial’s first electric sub-compact wheel loader. These new models are expected to be commercially available via the CASE and New Holland Construction dealer network in the second half of 2023.

“The expansion of our product portfolio is central to the growth of our construction business. Tobroco-Giant is the optimal partner for us as they have a strong customer-first mentality and have consistently demonstrated the ability to supply builders with high-quality, innovative products,” says Stefano Pampalone, president of construction at CNH Industrial. “This agreement allows us to immediately provide our North American customers with a wider offering of high-performance machines for agriculture and landscaping applications.”

HIGH ATTENDANCE AT THE ARA SHOW 2023 REFLECTS POSITIVELY ON THE RENTAL INDUSTRY

Attendance at the recently-concluded ARA Show 2003 soared. The number of rental stores that attended the show increased tremendously from the previous show in October 2021. More than 750 exhibitors attended the trade show – many celebrating milestones from first-time exhibitors to a remarkable 66 years as an exhibitor at the show.

New this year was the addition of two rental-specific education programs, EventsU and Future of Equipment Rental. More than 700 rental professionals attended the full-day education programs in event and equipment rental respectively.

COOPER EQUIPMENT RENTALS ACQUIRES HUB EQUIPMENT

Cooper Equipment Rentals Limited has purchased Toronto-based Hub Equipment.

Established in 1946 in Moncton, New Brunswick, Hub Equipment moved its operations into Southern Ontario in the 1950s and is a provider of specialized heavy equipment, offering brands such as Cat, Volvo, Hitachi, John Deere, Komatsu, and more.

Tom Stevenson, president of Hub Equipment, says that the company is excited to join Cooper Equipment Rentals.

Hub Equipment will operate as a specialty division of Cooper under the leadership of Tom Stevenson, serving as president, and Raegan Fatouros, serving as general manager.

HYDROGEN COMBUSTION ENGINES FOR HEAVY IRON UNDER DEVELOPMENT

Turn to page 38 to learn about JCB’s hydrogen combustion engine development and how hydrogen combustion power could be the future for heavy iron.

The Brandt Group of Companies has been named the exclusive Canadian distributor for the complete range of heavy equipment mobilization products from Sleipner Finland Ltd.

Sleipner products work to deliver travel-time reductions of up to 85 percent when transporting tracked or wheeled equipment 30 to 570 tonnes, including front shovels, large dozers, excavators, wheel loaders, trucks, drills, and more. They are used in more than 50 countries worldwide, working in the mining, quarrying, and construction industries.

A full range of Sleipner products, along with replacement parts and service personnel, will be accessible via Brandt’s dealer network.

BUILT ROBOTICS AND THE IUOE RENEW ROBOTIC EQUIPMENT OPERATOR TRAINING PARTNERSHIP

Built Robotics has renewed its partnership with the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE). The renewal extends the partnership through 2026 and will continue to put union members in the operator’s seat of construction automation technology.

As part of the agreement, the IUOE and Built Robotics will continue training robotic equipment operators on Built’s autonomous construction equipment.

Since the partnership began in 2020, the IUOE and Built have held in-person demonstrations, educational seminars, and media events at the ITEC and locals throughout the country.

CASE SPONSORS MENTORING PROGRAM

CASE Construction Equipment has partnered with the non-profit Crew Collaborative to sponsor and help build a new career counselling and mentoring program called FrameWork. The program is for high school students interested in the construction industry trades.

To help build the program, Crew Collaborative has started to seek out industry veterans that are interested in becoming a mentor to high school students. An in-person retreat hosted by Crew Collaborative will feature CASE employees and other industry insiders to build out the program and begin beta testing. A full FrameWork program launch is slated for the first quarter of 2024.

EXODUS GLOBAL ACQUIRES ROCKWHEEL AMERICAS

Exodus Global has acquired Rockwheel Americas, the North American distributor for RockWheel, RockCrusher, and RockScreener hydraulic attachments. Moving forward, the division will operate as RockZone Americas to better reflect the product line and to align with RockZone Global.

SPOTLIGHT INTRODUCTIONS

& UPDATES

Toro

Battery-powered utility loader

Toro’s next-generation eDingo 500 compact utility loader is more powerful than its predecessor model. According to Toro, the HyperCell Power System is more powerful and reliable and allows for all-day run times and quick charging. The new eDingo features a narrow width of 30 inches making it capable of fitting through tight doorways. The HyperCell Power System is built to run cooler than other systems, meaning operators gain efficiencies, eliminate engine exhaust emissions, and can complete more jobs with less hassle. Rated operating capacity is 515 pounds, and the new design has a hinge pin height of 81 inches and 6.5 GPM hydraulic flow. Electric drive motors make the new machine quiet while still capable of zero-turn maneuvers in tight spaces and a speed of up to 2.75 mph.

hp engine, a 2-speed hydrostatic transmission, and a standard Power Bob-Tach mounting system so operators can easily swap attachments without leaving the cab. The TL519 has a lift capac ity of 5,500 pounds and a lift height of more than 19 feet. This telehandler also comes equipped with four steering modes and five operation modes.

The turbocharged Tier 4 engine delivers powerful, hightorque performance and achieves emissions compliance without a diesel particulate filter or selective catalyst reduction, and it delivers reliable cold weather starting.

Battery-powered utility loader

Telehandler

est grapple, the CGC1040 Compact Claw Grapple, is made from high-tensile AR400 steel and performance-matched specifically for Kubota SCL1000 stand-on compact loader power unit. Kubota’s two new snow blowers are available with hydraulic flow rates to match a number of Kubota power units, including the SSV and SVL lines. The new snow blowers feature optional bolt-on wings that add an additional four inches of width, to bring more snow into the machine. An optional fold-over chute can be added to direct snow more precisely.

Ligchine International

Concrete boom screed

Ligchine International’s SCREEDSAVER ULTRA PLUS concrete boom screed delivers the company’s newest technology and innovation. This concrete boom screed features an on-board camera system and an elevated operator’s station for wireless and seated operation. The concrete screed’s heavy-duty boom reaches 20 feet with a 14-foot 6-inch screed head. A 45-hp Kubota turbocharged diesel engine powers the ULTRA PLUS. Four-wheel drive with a two-speed drive range, and four-wheel independent steering, increases the maneuverability and traction of the concrete screed.

JLG Industries

Bi-energy boom lift

JLG Industries, Inc. now offers Bi-Energy technology on its X770AJ and X1000AJ compact crawler boom lifts, reducing these machines’ noise and exhaust emissions. These JLG machines are equipped with two full-sized, independent power sources, combining an emissions-free lithium-ion battery pack with a diesel engine to allow operators to work indoors and outside with one machine. Using the engine’s power, operators can drive the machine to where the overhead work needs to be done, and then can switch to zero-emissions, all-electric battery power to work at height. The X770AJ comes with a 100Ah 76V lithium-ion battery pack, while the X1000AJ has a 150Ah 76V lithium-ion battery pack; the lithium-ion batteries can be charged from an outlet at any time, including while the machine is in use. Both machines have a Kubota D902 21.6-hp at 3,200 rpm diesel engine.

Snow blower attachment

Bi-energy boom lift

Concrete boom screed

MACHINE CONTROL, LIKE VOLVO’S DIG ASSIST WHICH INCLUDES ACTIVE CONTROL FOR SEMI-AUTOMATED OPERATION, SAVES TIME.

that plan by touching things with the bucket, so if somebody had already staked out the job site, you just reach out and touch the stakes and it will draw the shape on the screen,” McLean described.

Larger enterprises handling entire subdivisions or big road and highway projects may need 3D systems. Dig Assist incorporates major 3D offerings into the system by using on-board satellite connections and sensors to feed into the third-party software.

SKILLS SHORTAGE BRINGS NEW DEMAND FOR MACHINE CONTROL

Machine control can help bridge skills gaps in today’s tight work force. Dig Assist tools can give anyone a skills boost when

they sit in an excavator, McLean said. A basic system that uses red, yellow, and green lights to indicate how close the machine is to grade is easy to learn and put into use.

With an hour or so of training, someone with minimal experience on an excavator can be hitting grade.

Saving time saves money, and not much bites into the bottom line more than rework – a call to redo part of a job because it’s not properly on grade. Rework adds time to the process and, if the contractor needs to buy fill to correct an error, additional costs. Machine control systems cut those costs by removing most rework issues.

AUTOMATION ADDS GREATER PRECISION FOR GRADING

Basic grade control systems like Dig Assist are a good start, but the addition of automation takes machine control a step further and improves results even more. That’s where Active Control comes in.

The newest addition to Volvo’s Dig Assist features semi-automatic control of the excavator, guided by a site plan programmed into the system. When engaged, the system moves the boom and, if desired, the bucket to match the site plan – no matter how complex.

Active Control is available on Volvo excavators with electric over hydraulic controls. Valves and sensors are all built into the machine itself and a connection is made to the Co-Pilot interface. When Active Control is engaged, the operator manages the broader machine movements and hands over finer work to the computer.

“If you’re digging a trench, you program that in Dig Assist through the Active Control screen and select how you want

ACTIVE CONTROL SWING CONTROLS MAKE IT EASIER FOR THE OPERATOR TO MOVE FROM PILE TO TRUCK MORE PRECISELY.

THE CO-PILOT TABLET IS A QUICK AND EASY INTERFACE FOR DIG ASSIST.

it done – you say whether or not you want it to control the bucket . . . and what angle you want it to hold,” McLean said.

Active Control can work with some tiltrotators and similar tools, which makes it even easier to complete complex sites with challenging slopes.

Dig Assist also improves safety on the job site. One feature called Boundary Alerts allows operators to set height and depth limits to machine operation when working in tight quarters. When those boundaries are neared, the operator is alerted with sound and light alarms. Active Control automatically slows and halts the machine if it nears the boundary, ensuring it is not breached.

Swing controls included in Active Control add the same safeguards when moving from side to side. They also add ease of operation. McLean said swing controls can be set so that when the machine is stationary – loading trucks, for example – it can make precise and efficient movements from the pile to the truck and back.

NEED FOR SPEED IS FILLED BY MACHINE CONTROL

The range of tools that come with any machine control package like Dig Assist, and the added capability of advanced systems such as Active Control, delivers real benefit to owners, McLean said. Those benefits tend to be focused on one factor: speed.

“You’re doing the job faster because you’re doing it right the first time. You’re not spending a great deal of time going back out and checking your work,” McLean described. “You can get two or three jobs done in a single week, instead of just one –

that is going to add up quickly on the bottom line.”

Machine control solutions like Dig Assist can also tie into the growing connected ecosystem on job sites. Tools like on-board weighing, the ability to track machine use and location, and other factors of connectivity add to overall efficiency.

“Because it’s connected, all the machines on the same platform can see each other. The people who are running the show can see the bigger picture of how their targets are being hit,” McLean said. “We see that as the evolution of the next level of productivity – connecting the machines so the managers have that big picture and see where they need to allocate the resources to get the job done.” HEG

You’re doing the job faster because you’re doing it right the first time. You’re not spending a great deal of time going back out and checking your work.

Matthew McLean Product Manager for Dig Assist, Volvo Construction Equipment

DIG ASSIST INCLUDES A VARIETY OF TOOLS THAT AID IN REACHING GRADE, LOADING, AND MORE.

DOZERS OF ALL SIZES DELIVER RUGGED PUSHING POWER

Big or small, the role of the dozer is to push hard and accurately with each pass on the job site. Manufacturers are focusing on design that gives operators expansive visibility and more control options. Here’s a look at recent dozer introductions which include specialty machines, advanced control technology, and a new entrant into the market.

LIEBHERR GENERATION 8 DOZER

The PR 766 G8 further expands the Liebherr fleet of Generation 8 earthmoving crawlers, with an operating weight of up to 55 tonnes. The Liebherr PR 766 G8 now has High Drive, which extends its capability into heavy-duty mining applications. The newly designed running gear maximizes performance and productivity – even on rough, stony ground over long operating periods. It features dieselhydraulic drive and is powered by a Liebherr 8-cylinder diesel engine with a maximum output of 360 kW (490 hp). The operating weight of the hydrostatic dozer is up to 54.3 tonnes, with available blade capacities of 13.6 cubic metres (Semi-U blade) or 17 cubic metres (U-blade).

DEVELON ENTERS THE DOZER MARKET

The DEVELON DD100 weighs 10 metric tons and has a 122hp engine. The dozer features a dual/single flange-type roller with several track guard options, electrohydraulic controls, and an 8-inch Smart Touch display in the cab. Cab safety features include minimized front pillars, maximized glass area, and a standard rear-view camera. The DD100 was designed with a narrower front engine compartment for better visibility. Two blade choices are available: 2.9 or 3.4 cubic yards.

DEVELON’S FIRST DOZER MODEL IS AVAILABLE WITH TWO BLADE OPTIONS.

CASE COMPACT DOZER LOADER

The CASE Minotaur DL550 is a compact dozer loader that sports a chassis-integrated C-frame with a 90- or 96-inch six-way blade. The C-frame hydraulically couples to both the chassis of the machine and the attachment coupler. This allows the dozer to push from a lower angle with more stability. With its dozer-style undercarriage, the Minotaur has more than 25,000 pounds of drawbar pull. It is available with 14-inch single-grouser steel tracks, 18-inch triple-grouser steel tracks, or 17.7-inch rubber tracks.

CATERPILLAR SMALL DOZER TECHNOLOGY

Caterpillar has added new operator assist technologies and remote-control-ready features for D1, D2, and D3 next-generation small dozers, including Stable Blade Lift and Tilt, Blade Load Monitor, Slow Slip Traction Control, and AutoCarry. The new systems are bundled with the Cat attachment ready option and Grade 3D packages. The Blade Load Monitor produces real-time feedback of current machine load, compensates for ground conditions, and monitors track slippage. The Low Slip Traction Control has normal and low slip operating modes to prevent excessive track slip. When pushing heavy loads, the AutoCarry function automatically raises and lowers the dozer blade for better pushing capability.

DRESSTA MID- AND HEAVY-SIZE DOZERS

The Dressta TD-15M ranges from 45,660 up to 47,780 pounds and has a turbocharged Cummins engine with up to 232 hp. A 3-speed powershift transmission and 2-speed steering drive delivers 472 kN drawbar pull. Electro-hydraulic controlled joysticks control the blade with blade speeds of slow, neutral, and fast. The larger TD-25M ranges from 90,940 to 92,410 pounds, delivers 375 hp, and 794 kN of drawbar pull. Both models have new high-visibility cabs with expansive glass surface area, a tapered engine hood, and rear-view camera.

DRESSTA’S TD-15M IS DESIGNED TO MAXIMIZE VISIBILITY.

CAT HAS INTRODUCED A RANGE OF TECHNOLOGIES TO ASSIST DOZER OPERATORS.

THE DL550 IS THE WORLD’S FIRST COMPACT DOZER LOADER.

David Cataford Chief Executive Officer, Champion Iron

Philippe Couillard 31st Premier of Québec

Ken Rock General Director, Société de développement économique Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam

PANELIST,

Nadja Kunz Assistant Professor, The University of British Columbia

PANELIST

PANELIST PANELIST

Angelina Mehta Mining Engineer, Investment Professional, Rio Tinto

MODERATOR

Opening Plenary Panel

AUXILIARY HYDRAULICS DEMYSTIFIED

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN SELECTING A HYDRAULIC FLOW OPTION FOR YOUR SKID-STEER OR COMPACT TRACK LOADER

Skid-steer and compact track loaders are go-to machines for getting a range of tasks done on job sites large and small, and one of their biggest advantages is maneuver ability combined with countless attachment options. When se lecting a skid-steer or compact track loader, choosing the right hydraulic option is essential for maximizing the utilization of your investment. CASE Construction Equipment explains what those options are and what you should consider when selecting a hydraulic flow option for your SSL or CTL.

WHAT DIFFERENT LEVELS OF HYDRAULICS ARE AVAILABLE FOR SKIDSTEER AND COMPACT TRACK LOADERS?

There are three hydraulic options for skid-steer and compact track loaders: standard flow, high flow, and enhanced high flow.

Standard-flow hydraulics

Standard-flow hydraulics is the most popular option for SSL and CTL owners; flow rates will differ by manufacturer and model. Standard flow typically runs between 17 and 24 gpm and is included on all machines from the factory. Standard flow operates on the same pressure that the carrier’s main hydraulics operate on – 3,000 to 3,500 psi. Standard flow hydraulics can power four-in-one buckets, hydraulic hammers, breakers, trenchers, and grapples.

High-flow hydraulics

High-flow hydraulics further increases the carrier’s productivity and versatility. High flow also operates on the same pressure as the main hydraulic circuits, but the flow rate ranges from 30 to 42 gpm. High-flow hydraulics can be installed at the factory or added later in the field. Attachments that benefit from high-flow hydraulics include cold planers, snow blowers, rock saws, small mulchers, and chippers/shredders.

Enhanced high-flow hydraulics

Enhanced high-flow hydraulics have flow rates similar to a skid steer with a high-flow package, but operate at 4,100 psi. Attachments that are suited to enhanced high flow include large cold planers, rock saws, and mulchers.

WHAT IS THE SECONDARY CIRCUIT FOR?

The secondary circuit provides additional function for an attachment, such as a side-shift function on a cold planer or stump grinder, changing the direction of a snow blower chute, or for downriggers.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PSI AND FLOW?

Flow will determine the speed of the attachment under no restrictions, so if the maximum gpm on an attachment is 30, that will be the maximum flow delivered to the attachment under perfect conditions with no pressure or resistance to that flow. As soon as flow starts to resist, pressure (psi) builds. It’s important to understand what the maximum constraints are for your attachment on the flow and that pressure. At some point the two cross to create the most productive conditions for the attachment. For example, if you have a cold planer that’s running at a maximum of 3,000 psi, you’ll generate too much heat and not help machine productivity. But, if you back off a bit and reduce some of the resistance to flow, your attachment will run more consistently in speed and won’t be fighting against that additional heat generation in the system.

It is helpful for the operator to watch the pressure gauge on the attachment to ensure that the attachment is working at the most productive pressure.

WHEN SELECTING A SKID-STEER OR COMPACT TRACK LOADER, CHOOSING THE RIGHT HYDRAULIC OPTION IS ESSENTIAL FOR MAXIMIZING THE UTILIZATION OF YOUR INVESTMENT.

WHY IS HYDRAULIC HORSEPOWER IMPORTANT AND WHAT DOES THAT MEAN FOR PRODUCTIVITY AND EFFECTIVENESS?

Hydraulic horsepower indicates what the machine is hydraulically capable of doing, and many attachments are also rated by hydraulic horsepower. This helps to judge the match of the attachment to the machine. For example, it doesn’t make sense to put an attachment that can only take 40 hydraulic horsepower on a 90 hydraulic horsepower machine. The reverse is also true – an attachment might be rated with higher hydraulic horsepower than the carrier, which a buyer might think makes it more versatile for more machines, but the drive motor inside the attachment might not be suited to the carrier and can hamper productivity.

MAXIMIZE YOUR EFFICIENCY WITH CREEP CONTROL

Carrier features such as creep control are ideal for easy control of the skid steer when using attachments like mulchers and cold planers, enabling the operator to dial in the machine to a precise speed suited to the application. This eliminates any jerking motion that might cause the attachment to stall.

FLOW CONFUSION?

A lot of new machines have adjustable flow settings in the cab. To help your operators know what flow is ideal for each attachment, place a quick reference laminated card in the cab with a list of your attachments and flow requirements for each.

TAKE THE LONG VIEW WHEN CHOOSING BETWEEN HYDRAULICS OPTIONS

Consider high-flow attachments that you may want to run in the future and select a machine from the factory that can handle those applications. This will avoid the expense and time of retrofitting your machine after the fact. If you rent a lot of attachments, then your machine will be ready with that added flexibility. It is important to select OEM-approved attachments for your carrier to make sure that your tools will work with the specs on your machine.

ATTACHMENTS THAT ARE SUITED TO ENHANCED HIGH-FLOW HYDRAULICS INCLUDE LARGE COLD PLANERS, ROCK SAWS, AND MULCHERS.

1. YANMAR COMPACT EQUIPMENT NORTH AMERICA

For the first time, Yanmar Compact Equipment and ASV will be together under the same banner, Yanmar Compact Equipment North America, and both will bring new machines to display.

Yanmar is back at CONEXPO for the first time since 2014 and is introducing a new product line that will strengthen its compact offerings. It will have a total of 12 mini excavators, compact wheel loaders, and more on

hand. ASV plans to debut a new machine and will share information about recent additions as well as its expanding attachment line. At the booth will be four Posi-Track loaders for a range of applications.

2. SNORKEL AND XTREME MANUFACTURING

Snorkel and Xtreme

Manufacturing are going big in Vegas with displays of brand-new equipment alongside existing machinery.

The lineup will include a range of scissor lifts

including the S9070RTHC, which it states is the largest ultra-capacity rough-terrain scissor lift in North America. The “mega boom” 2100SJ will be one of several articulating and telescopic rough-terrain boom lifts at the show, and the compact Snorkel SR5719 telehandler will also be on display. Xtreme will showcase the XR619-A compact roller boom telehandler as part of its telehandler lineup. High-capacity and ultra-high-capacity telehandlers will also be at CONEXPO as well.

Snorkel and Xtreme will introduce several new machines – Snorkel intends to launch new scissor lifts, articulating boom lifts, and a mast lift, while Xtreme will unveil its newest telehandler.

3. GENCOR INDUSTRIES

At its large outdoor exhibit, Gencor Industries plans to show an array of new optimized asphalt production equipment that improve energy efficiency while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Gencor’s Ultradrum

A.R.E. (Advanced RAP Entry) will be on site, along with the GreenMachine, designed to produce warm mix asphalt using water to lower overall process temperatures for reduced energy use. The SH series of electric thermal fluid heaters will be on display as well. New innovations in control automation, the GenV burner control and new Gen-Konnect dashboard system, will also be part of the Gencor display.

4. HTC DOUBLE COIN

At CONEXPO HTC Double Coin will introduce a

3 4 5 6

brand-new tire for snow applications. The REM2S 20.5R25 E2/L2/G2 tire, a hard surface tire designed for graders and loaders, will be on display along with other tire products for a range of uses and equipment.

5. AUSA

Site dumpers are AUSA’s flagship product, and this CONEXPO they will include a brand-new electric version. The new D151AEG electric dumper is one of several AUSA dumpers that will be on display.

AUSA says its dumpers improve efficiency when moving earth around job sites. Along with the electric dumper, AUSA will show DR601AHG reversible drive dumper, the D350AHG dumper, two rough-terrain forklifts, and the T235H telehandler.

6. BOMAG

Building better roads will need a combination of sustainable machine design, innovation, and advanced technology, according to BOMAG –and that will be on display

1. MACK TRUCKS

Mack has given the Granite vocational truck a makeover and will show off its new look at CONEXPO. Outfitted with a concrete mixer body, the Granite on display will feature new heated LED headlights and a new grille, as well as Command Steer and other features.

Mack will also highlight a TerraPro fitted with a concrete pump. An MD6 4x2 model medium-duty truck (fitted out as a fuel and lube truck) will demonstrate the potential of a lighter unit.

2. WEIR ESCO

Weir ESCO plans to show attachments and technology products. Central to the display will be the new ESCO PosiGrab II hydrau-

lic coupler for excavators. Also on display will be an SXDP excavator rock bucket with Ultralok U60 tooth system with adapter wear caps, along with an HD wheel loader bucket fitted with ESCO’s Nemisys N65 tooth system.

The Ultralok construction tooth system, with extensions to the product line, will be on hand, and Weir ESCO will also show its Motion Metrics products that create detailed views of quarry productivity and efficiency.

3. TOPCON POSITIONING SYSTEMS

The growing use of precision measurement technology and workflow solutions in the construction industry is a focus for Topcon. The company will show a variety of its preci-

sion tools, demonstrating how it blends precision measurement, software, and data collection to improve productivity. It will display the latest product developments, share some corporate news, and feature in CONEXPO education sessions focused on compact machines, asphalt paving, and more.

4 TRAIL KING INDUSTRIES

Trail King Industries will show off a hydraulic detachable trailer that is designed for heavy haul in multiple load configurations – just one of its several new construction-related products at CONEXPO this year.

The company says it has been focused on improving its materials hauling products and will

display those in the booth. The lineup includes live bottom trailers, steel side dumps, and a lighter bottom dump trailer.

5. MONTABERT

This is the first CONEXPO since Montabert acquired Tramac in 2022, and the companies intend to share plenty of news about their products during the show. Tramac has long distributed Montabert-branded breakers under its name while also manufacturing rock breaker booms; two booms will be on display in the co-branded booth as part of the two companies’ full line of rock breaking and demolition tools. Montabert will also show the SD Compact Breaker for compact carriers and its new line of Silent Demolition Tools.

4 MONTABERT TRAMAC SD SERIES

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The Astec Industries BX series hydraulic breaker excavator attachments are built for productivity in concrete and rock applications. Used for demolition, construction, or aggregate purposes, these breakers withstand continuous breaking in harsh environments. High flow rates and low operating pressures minimize heat generation and hydraulic shock loading, enabling smooth operation and maximum service life for both the carrier and breaker. A boxed housing keeps the noise levels down, and a hydraulic rock-breaker-mounted manual stroke selector valve optimizes power and speed. Servicing is easier as BX series attachments have fewer parts integrated into the design.

2

The Okada TOP Series hydraulic breakers are custom made for easy mounting on a variety of carriers for many applications.

The TOP Series ranges in size from 150 to 17,000 ft.-lbs. There is no need for complete assembly replacements: customized upper mounting brackets and quick-coupler systems are available for all Okada breakers. Included as standard equipment on the TOP 205J and larger breakers is a Y-style accumulator that utilizes a diaphragm design and easy-to-service body. Medium and heavy class TOP breakers are compatible with auto lube systems.

Rated in the 8,000 ft.-lb. impact energy class and suited for carriers ranging from 30 to 45 metric tons, NPK’s GH-15 Hammer is capable of high production rates in concrete as well as medium to hard material. A unique gas-charged piston maximizes hammer efficiency. Its fully sleeved design allows for easy rebuild and extended service life, which makes for better total cost of ownership.

4

The new Tramac SD Hydraulic Breaker series, designed and built by Montabert for use on carriers up to 12 tons, are versatile and can accomplish multiple tasks. With fewer wear parts and no tie rods, the SD offers quick, easy maintenance in the field or shop. Bushings, pins, and tools can be replaced in the field without removing the breaker from the carrier. The fully enclosed, soundproof cradle reduces vibrations and limits noise. Lightweight, heavy-duty housing protects working parts and hoses. A unique energy chamber acts as a hydraulic shock absorber, reducing pressure variations in the hydraulic circuits to provide consistent breaking energy.

MEET CO2 NEUTRALITY GOAL

ELECTRIC PAVER AND ROLLER COMPLETE ZERO-EMISSION PROJECT IN THE NETHERLANDS

Van Gelder is a full-service construction company in the Netherlands with over 1,100 dedicated employees and more than 100 years of experience. Van Gelder’s objective is to contribute to a smart, sustainable, and safe public space of the future and to become emission-free by 2025.

To achieve this, Van Gelder invested in an electric paver and an electric tandem vibratory roller at dealer Van der Spek from Vianen, a partner for sales, rental, and service of construction equipment. The report from the project manager of the first electric job site near Schiphol was enthusiastic. Sander van Domselaar explains that the zero-emission construction project to repair the lane and cycle tracks on the N232 was a first not only in the Netherlands, but also worldwide. “This is a fantastic develop-

ment that we can show here and we are very proud of that,” van Domselaar said. “We did some tests first and then went into real asphalt paving. It just went the way it’s supposed to go.”

The Dynapac SD1800W e city paver is equipped with a water-cooled 98-kWh lithium-ion battery pack that powers a strong electric motor directly coupled to a highly efficient hydraulic system without an additional transmission. The battery is fully charged in one hour via 700 V fast charging.

The CC900 e battery-powered tandem roller has a 15kWh lithium-ion battery that drives a 10-kW electric motor for propulsion and steering. Another 8.5-kW motor is used for vibration. The roller can operate for a full day – 8 hours – without recharging.

Van Domselaar was also particularly pleased with

Working with these special machines was otherwise not very different from working with conventional construction machines. The only thing that had to be taken into account was charging the paver at midday. We solved that with a mobile 500 kWh battery system that was supplied to the job site.

Sander van Domselaar Project Manager, Van Gelder

the electric machines’ silent operation. “Working with these special machines was otherwise not very different from working with conventional construction machines. The only thing that had to be taken into account was

charging the paver at midday. We solved that with a mobile 500 kWh battery system that was supplied to the job site.”

He is convinced that these developments will enable Van Gelder to achieve its carbon neutrality goals.

DYNAPAC CC900 E BATTERY-POWERED TANDEM ROLLER AND SD1800W E CITY PAVER.

VÖGELE HIGH-PERFORMANCE PAVERS HANDLE MULTIPLE JOB SIZES

Vögele asphalt pavers, available in multiple classes, are designed to be productive, efficient, and precise for paving operations from paths to highways. For narrow paving jobs, such as pedestrian and cycle paths, the SUPER 700i small paver can pave widths between 3 feet 11 inches and 7 feet 3 inches. Fitted with cut-off shoes, the Mini Class paver achieves a minimum paving width of just 1 foot 8 inches, and with bolt-on extensions a maximum width of 10 feet 6 inches.

The Mini Class paver comes with the ErgoBasic operating system, incorporating all the basic functions for high-quality paving. It includes clearly

structured function and status indicators, different operating modes, glare-free backlighting for night-time jobs, and simple steering by a rotary controller.

The SUPER 1300-3i is a highly compact paver yet features a maximum laydown rate of 385 tph and a pave width of up to 16 feet 5 inches. When paired with an AB 340 extending screed the Compact Class paver can manage projects like a combined foot and cycle path, minor roads, or squares. With cut-off shoes, a pave width of 2 feet 6 inches is possible. The maximum width with the right bolt-on extensions is 16 feet 5 inches. The ErgoPlus operating system

adds process reliability and quality when paving.

The SUPER 1703-3i 8-foot paver features compact dimensions and a Pivot Steer brake. It is maneuverable and can pave at up to 250 feet per minute. It has a maximum laydown rate of 770 tph and pave widths ranging from 8 feet to 15 feet 6 inches. Bolton extensions increase width up to 19 feet 6 inches.

The paver and screed are equipped with the ErgoPlus 3 operating system. It makes controlling the machine, including the Niveltronic Plus system for automated grade and slope control, easier. The Vögele EcoPlus low-emissions package cuts fuel consump-

tion by up to 25 percent. When equipped with Vögele RoadScan, a non-contacting temperature measurement system, checking and documenting the paving temperature is easier.

The SUPER 2000-3i tracked paver comes with the same features as the SUPER 17033i. Achieving a maximum laydown rate of 1,540 tph and featuring a powerful 6-cylinder diesel engine, it is suitable for paving highways and large commercial areas. In combination with the AB 600 extending screed, the paver achieves a maximum width of 27 feet 11 inches, or 25 feet 5 inches when fitted with bolton extensions.

SUPER 2000-3I ASPHALT PAVER

MACK TRUCKS GRANITE VOCATIONAL TRUCK IS UPDATED WITH A NEW LOOK AND LED HEADLIGHTS

Arefreshed version of the Mack Granite vocational truck debuted at World of Concrete, showing off a new, more modern look with an updated chrome grille and self-heating LED headlamps that offer brighter illumination.

The new grille and air intakes modernize the look of the Granite, and the choice of two grille treatments offers customers another way to customize their vehicles. The standard grille features blacked-out cross bars surrounding the chrome Mack badge with the optional grille being all chrome.

Self-heating LED headlights round out the updates and add to the suite of safety features already on previous Mack Granite models. The integrated heating elements automatically sense the ambient temperature and turn on to keep ice and snow from building up in colder environments and an anti-fog coating prevents condensation in warmer, humid environments to improve visibility.

The new LED technology is designed to fully illuminate the road and job site, including the driver and passenger sides of the vehicle, to reduce eye fatigue while helping operators detect objects sooner.

Safety is also improved during daylight driving through

integrated amber daytime running lights that double as turn signals, making the truck more visible to oncoming traffic and on the job site.

The LED headlights are designed to be long-lasting through their high-impact polycarbonate lenses with additional hard coating protection to prevent cracking, scratching, or damage to the headlight from road or job site debris.

In the event of damage, the headlight assemblies are de-

AN UPDATED LOOK AND NEW LIGHTING ARE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MACK GRANITE REFRESH.

Self-heating LED headlamps on the Mack Granite automatically sense ambient temperature and turn on if any ice or snow buildup is detected to ensure good visibility.

signed to be easily replaced and are also backwards compatible with earlier truck models if current Granite owners choose to upgrade.

Granite models can be equipped with a number of features that improve uptime and driver con fidence. Notably, Command Steer is available on the Granite, which makes steering the truck much easier on drivers. An electric motor combines with the truck’s hydraulic steering, and sensors monitor terrain, driver inputs, and environmental elements. The electric motor provides assists to the steering when needed, adding torque to make it easier to steer through challenging terrain like ruts, potholes, dips, and other potential problem spots. A return-to-centre feature automatically centres the wheel in forward and reverse to make tight maneuvers easier. The end result is that the driver can keep the truck on its path with less effort.

Mack GuardDog Connect telematics can be used to monitor the truck and keep track of potential issues that may arise. It allows technicians to quickly diagnose problems that may occur, and fleet managers to develop proactive approaches to repairs as well as confirmation of parts availability. Through GuardDog Connect users can also benefit from remote software updates, among other overthe-air uses.

HYDROGEN AS PART OF ZEROEMISSIONS FUTURE

BY KAITLYN TILL, EDITOR IN CHIEF

Electric equipment is a fast-growing segment of the market, but not all machines and applications are suitable for battery power. As part of its journey toward delivering a full range of zero-emissions equipment, JCB continues to roll out a lineup of compact electric machines in several product categories. The company has now turned to hydrogen gas as a fuel solution for larger earthmoving and material handling machines – which has resulted in working backhoe and telehandler prototypes. I recently had the opportunity to travel to JCB’s world headquarters in the U.K. where the company unveiled its hydrogen combustion engine. However, as I learned, the road toward its development was not straightforward.

A HYDROGEN FUEL CELL EXPERIMENT

On its journey toward development of the hydrogen combustion engine, JCB built an impressive working prototype hydrogen fuel cell excavator after determining that battery power wasn’t the right solution for its larger machines.

“We started, like many companies did, with battery technology. We got our first seven electric machines out, and we’re really proud of those doing a fantastic job. But they tend to be used in an urban environment,” says Tim Burnhope, chief innovation officer at JCB. “The most important part is that they’re close to electrical charging points of some form or electricity supply. When you move out of the city and you’re on job sites where you either have to take a generator to supply power or it’s quite remote, actually the hindrance for electric becomes apparent very quickly.”

Larger machines tend to work in those remote locations and need lots of power and batteries – which JCB found becomes cost prohibitive and impractical as machines get bigger. According to Burnhope, customers like the familiarity of mobile fuel, so JCB started to look at mobile fuel alternatives to diesel, such as HVO and hydrogen.

“We kept coming back to hydrogen as the best solution, the best opportunity for us . . . at that time, and the only product we could make would be with a hydrogen fuel cell. So we got on

says Burnhope.

“It’s one of those bittersweet projects where the machine is fantastic, but actually the technology is just inappropriate at this point in time for the industry. The fuel cell seems quite fragile in terms of dust and G-forces, and it’s very expensive. The fuel cell combined with power batteries and DC-to-DC converters – the price of those components alone is substantial.”

Customers were also concerned about residual value of the machine and whether they could sell a used machine with hydrogen fuel cells into other parts of the world on the aftermarket. JCB ultimately decided that it could do better – that its hydrogen fuel cell excavator would remain a one-off proof of concept, but it would be impractical for the market. JCB Chairman Lord Bamford challenged the engineering team to look at hydrogen combustion as a solution.

We kept coming back to hydrogen as the best solution.

Tim Burnhope Chief Innovation Officer, JCB

JCB’S PROTOTYPE HYDROGEN-COMBUSTIONPOWERED 3CX BACKHOE LOADER.

JCB’S HYDROGEN FUEL CELL PROTOTYPE EXCAVATOR.

JCB TURNS TO HYDROGEN COMBUSTION ENGINE DEVELOPMENT

According to Burnhope, hydrogen combustion had been tried before but was limited by design technology at the time. With development of this new engine, JCB’s goal was to achieve a solution that performs exactly the same as a diesel engine. It took over 165 iterations to perfect combustion for a hydrogen flame, and through this research process they came up with 11 design challenges and got down to four root causes of those challenges: hydrogen mixing, air compression, spark ignition, and steam management. The company created a designedfrom-the-ground-up engine that injects hydrogen gas fuel instead of liquid fuel, features specially designed spark plugs and a high-efficiency turbocharger, and manages the byproduct of this combustion process – steam – by burning it off as water.

A NEW ENGINE – BUT A FAMILIAR PROCESS ON THE JOB SITE

JCB is currently testing the hydrogen combustion engine in a telehandler and a backhoe loader. Daily maintenance and operation of a machine with JCB’s hydrogen combustion engine will be similar to a machine with a diesel engine. Most maintenance points will be familiar to job site technicians, and hydrogen fuel can be delivered to the job site via truck similar to a diesel delivery. When it’s time to refuel, the operator simply connects to the refuelling truck via a hose and is back at work in a few minutes.

This fuel would preferably be green hydrogen, which is produced using wind, solar, or nuclear power, and is the most environmentally friendly hydrogen fuel.

The current limitation is fuel availability, which also keeps fuel prices high, but JCB anticipates that this limitation will continue to change over the coming years as hydrogen fuel infrastructure develops in North America. According to JCB, hydrogen contains three times more energy than diesel, so if the cost of hydrogen is less than three times the cost of diesel, then it also becomes the more cost-effective fuel.

As for the equipment itself, new technology almost always costs more than the status quo. But, according to Burnhope, the hydrogen-combustion-powered equipment could have a surprisingly low premium above its diesel-powered counterpart compared to other zero-emissions solutions. He anticipates that a machine with a hydrogen combustion engine will cost between 20 and 35 percent more than the diesel-powered

version. For comparison, battery-powered equipment has a 70 to 200 percent premium, and a hydrogen fuel cell excavator, like the prototype JCB developed, would come with a 200 to 300 percent premium.

IS HYDROGEN COMBUSTION THE FUTURE?

Burnhope says that JCB’s customers are anticipating the need for net-zero solutions; the company’s aim is to reduce complexity for contractors, and the familiarity of mobile fuel delivery and the hydrogen combustion solution makes them feel comfortable.

He adds, “Customers are really excited about it and what they’re doing is putting pressure on us to get machines to market so they can buy one or two and they can experiment . . . when we get new models in customers’ hands, that’s when we really learn.” HEG

JCB’S HYDROGEN COMBUSTION ENGINE.

JCB’S PROTOTYPE HYDROGENCOMBUSTION-POWERED TELEHANDLER.

THE FULLY AUTONOMOUS JOB SITE IS A WORK IN PROGRESS

THE TECHNOLOGY HAS MADE BIG STRIDES BUT THE JOURNEY IS FAR FROM OVER

BY ARTURO SANTIAGO

Just about every new car comes standard with electric win dows, Bluetooth radios, automatic transmissions, and rearview cameras. We don’t question when these technologies became the norm, we just accept them as being part of modern vehicles. Corrective steering, obstacle detection, and self-park ing are on a similar path to normalization. A technology is developed and implemented, proven to be effective and useful, and then is widely adopted often without much fanfare. The trajectory to a fully autonomous job site will follow the same basic pattern. Single tasks will be automated, one at a time, eventually leading to the automation of all heavy equipment tasks.

WHAT DOES THE AUTONOMOUS JOB SITE LOOK LIKE NOW?

Partial autonomy has been around for about 20 years. But currently, there are several automated technologies developing all at once. Each one is reliant on the application, the job site, and the geography. And, each is progressing at different speeds depending on the application.

For example, Trimble has developed semi-autonomous asphalt paver technology for an OEM. It can automatically steer and control the depth and slope of the screed. Trimble General Manager for Civil Specialty Solutions Kevin Garcia says, “The more of that we can automate, the more operators can focus on things like, am I holding a consistent paving speed? Do I have enough material in the paver to continue to pave without stopping? Where are my trucks? Can I manage those? Is the shuttle buggy in position? There are numerous things that a paver operator has to keep their mind on. The more of those we can take away from them, the better.”

There is also path planning – the ability to plan complicated paths and routes for different types of machines to go back and forth on a job site whether they are articulating, front steer, or skid steer. On this, Trimble Strategic Marketing Manager Kevin

There are machine control systems with various levels of autonomy. Trimble Earthworks with Horizontal Steering Control for dozers automatically controls the machine to follow any horizontal alignment from the 3D model while also running automatics on the blade. With Trimble Earthworks for excavators, the operator controls the stick, and the technology controls the boom and bucket (the blade tilt of the bucket can also be automated).

THE ADVANTAGES OF AUTONOMY ON CONSTRUCTION JOB SITES

The advantages autonomy brings to contractors and operators on the job site are vast. Efficiency and productivity are increased. Safety is elevated. The technology can compensate for workforce shortages by turning good operators into highly skilled operators. This is especially true for the next generation of contractors and operators, as they have grown up with connectivity and have a deeper trust of the technology as well as a robust understanding of autonomous functionality. The retirement of skilled operators in an aging workforce will leave big gaps to fill.

Autonomy can also help to alleviate current supply chain issues by improving the efficiency of warehousing and manufacturing with data from job sites. Garcia adds, “We have an infrastructure bill that has dollars to be spent on infrastructure. It’s going to be hard to spend them if we don’t find ways to get creative with the fact that machines are not readily available, parts are not readily available, people are not readily available.”

or an extra shift or taking Thursdays off and add in weather conditions. We will have so much more information that the job itself will just be kind of an afterthought.”

There will be an emphasis on developing workflows between machines, such as dozers working with compactors and systems that allow operators to perform a complex task with one machine while an autonomous machine completes a less complex task on the same job site.

WHEN WILL CONSTRUCTION JOB SITES BE FULLY AUTONOMOUS?

Garcia says companies and contractors often ask him when a fully developed autonomous job site will be available to them, alluding to the idea that the market is ready to adopt the technology now. Environmental concerns and energy costs

AUTONOMOUS JOB SITE?

Expect connected site technology to be at the centre of the fully autonomous job site. It enables the orchestration of multiple machine types from different equipment manufacturers. In turn, optimization of various business goals such as the speed of a job or sustainability requisites can be achieved. It would also be necessary to create a standard autonomy language. Garcia explains, “We’re going to need a world of ISO standards that are talking about the data communication protocols. What is the frequency? What are the coordinate systems everyone’s working in? What are the material types? And if I introduce a machine, how does that change the workflow to the others? This can’t be prescriptive. We can’t tell a machine, ‘Go do this’ because that thing you told it to do might not be right for this minute.”

This will also necessitate a partnership between equipment manufacturers and the engineers creating autonomous systems. Marrying the data from the two will expedite the advancement of the technology.

According to both Garcia and Andrews, in the future, when the software, artificial intelligence, and neural networks are fully developed, it is conceivable that an entire job site could be designed and built digitally in a matter of seconds. Prior to executing anything in the field, you can start running scenario planning in which various situations can be added or subtracted from the digital model. Garcia lays it out like this: “What if I built it this way with this many shifts and this many people and this many machines of this class? How long is it going to take me and what’s my cost? Now let’s introduce two more machines

gy, and lessons will be learned from those setbacks. At this point,

Partial autonomy has been around for about 20 years. But currently, there are several automated technologies developing all at once.

ON A FULLY AUTONOMOUS JOB SITE THE EMPTY CAB OF A WORKING MACHINE WILL BE NORMALIZED.

ROBOTICS

EQUIPMENT TOUR Walk around Bobcat’s largest CTL ever

Magni rotating telehandlers gain ground in the North American market

Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robot meets the construction site

New iSlip Control System

Easi-Pour Introduces iSlip Control System on its Slipform Paver Line

iSlip allows more accurate, intelligent placement of concrete for your paving applications. With remote access, machine monitoring capabilities and so much more. The iSlip Control System sets a new standard for automated concrete placement.

Curb & Gutter | Sidewalk | Recreational Trails | Special Projects

ENGINE BLOCK CRUSHER/RECYCLER

1-800-368-8920 | www.easipour.com | sales@easipour.com

ENGINE BLOCK CRUSHER/RECYCLER

Excavator mounted, continuous rotation, engine block crusher/recycler, auto stripper/sorter, designed to be used in the most severe auto wrecking/metal recycling applications. The hydraulic rotator allows the operator to choose from any position, to grip, flip, rotate or pull. This translates to increased productivity. Lower section is fabricated from a T1 box, this provides strength and keeps the overall attachment weight down. Tips mesh point to point for excellent fine picking and sorting.

Excavator mounted, continuous rotation, engine block crusher/recycler, auto stripper/sorter, designed to be used in the most severe auto wrecking/metal recycling applications. The hydraulic rotator allows the operator to choose from any position, to grip, flip, rotate or pull. This translates to increased productivity. Lower section is fabricated from a T1 box, this provides strength and keeps the overall attachment weight down. Tips mesh point to point for excellent fine picking and sorting.

Put our expertise to work for you,

Put our expertise to work for you, call 905 897 2 311

Nye Manufacturing Ltd.

3585 Mavis Road, Mississauga, ON Canada L5C 1T7 sales@nye.ca

Nye Manufacturing Ltd.

3585 Mavis Road, Mississauga, ON Canada L5C 1T7 sales@nye.ca

A LONG WAY TOGETHER

WHEREVER YOU ARE, BKT IS WITH YOU

No matter how challenging your needs, BKT is with you offering a wide range of OTR tires specifically designed for the toughest operating conditions: from mining to construction sites.

Sturdy and resistant, reliable and safe, able to combine comfort and high performance. BKT is with you, even when work gets tough.

The Worldwide Leader in Concrete Paving Technology

GOMACO offers the full range of concrete slipform pavers, curb and gutter machines, trimmers, 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. 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. Our worldwide distributor network and our corporate team always stand ready to serve and assist you.