Heavy Equipment Guide October 2021, Volume 36, Number 9

OCTOBER 2021

SMALL PACKAGE, POWERFUL PUSHING IN-DEPTH REPORT ON SMALL DOZERS HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT EXCAVATOR FOR LOADING heavyequipmentguide.ca

PORT UPGRADE REQUIRES BIG DEMOLITION JOB

SMART. CHOICES. INTRODUCING THE INDUSTRY’S MOST FLEXIBLE GRADE MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS. With John Deere, you can adopt integrated grade management technology at your own pace. Choose from 2D Grade Guidance all the way up to SmartGrade™ 3D Grade Control. And upgrade at any time.

So you’re free from stakes and strings, overdigging and rework. And to build precise bids that win jobs, and deliver margins. All backed by John Deere’s legendary dealer network. It’s the smarter way forward.

JohnDeere.ca/SmartChoices

Tougher made smarter Introducing the new VHD

On the jobsite you need a truck that’s tough, safe, and smart. So, we built the new Volvo VHD to be the best-looking, most rugged vocational vehicle in the industry, packed with innovative ideas like Volvo Active Driver Assist and the revolutionary Volvo Dynamic Steering. Your toughest jobs just got easier.

Learn more at volvotrucks.ca/en-ca/trucks/vhd/

The New Volvo VHD

CONQUERING CHALLENGES. POWERED BY INNOVATION. Doosan® equipment is engineered to tackle your most challenging work in any season. When working with the experts at your local Doosan dealer, there’s no job you can’t conquer.

See our full lineup of equipment or find your nearest dealer at DISCOVERDOOSAN.COM/HEG Doosan® and the Doosan logo are registered trademarks of Doosan Corp. in the United States and various other countries around the world. ©2021 Doosan Infracore North America, LLC. All rights reserved.

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COVER STORY IN-DEPTH REPORT: SMALL DOZERS

40 48

HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT EXCAVATOR FOR LOADING

ELEVATOR GOING DOWN

70

SNOW REMOVAL MADE EASY WITH WHEEL LOADERS

October 2021 | Volume 36, Number 9

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS & SECTIONS

20

In-depth report: small dozers

10

From the Editor

30

4 tips for MEWP operation in below-freezing temperatures

12

News Room

34

5 things to look for in your next telehandler

20

In-Depth Report

40

How to select the right excavator for loading

30

Lift & Access

48

Elevator going down: deconstruction of a 100-year-old grain facility

40

Earthmoving & Excavation

48

Demolition & Recycling

58

Milling machines master Alberta roads

58

Roadbuilding

66

Software platform offers contractors ability to share and analyze data easier

66

Technology

70

Snow Removal

70

Snow removal made easy with wheel loaders

78

Advertiser Index

16 Spotlight

OCTOBER 2021 | VOLUME 36 • NUMBER 9 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

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

COVER PHOTO: JOHN DEERE 650K DOZER In-depth report: small dozers Read the article on page 20.

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Heavy Equipment Guide serves the Canadian engineered construction industry including: roadbuilding 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.

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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 2021, 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

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We’d like to hear from you.

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

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What is more?

More is understanding the challenges of your industry. It’s having a dedicated and specialized construction team and account managers working shoulder to shoulder with you in the field. It’s more than 40 years of experience in financing. What’s more, it’s replacing aging equipment with innovative alternatives to increase profits and reduce pollution in our air. With Mitsubishi HC Capital Canada, money makes more possible. www.mhccna.com

FROM THE EDITOR

FROM THE EDITOR VACCINE MANDATES RIPPLING THROUGH CONSTRUCTION

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ere we are in October, and it’s looking an awful lot like last October as Canada continues to struggle under the weight of reducing COVID-19 cases nationwide. It’s a slow fight, but we appear to be steadily getting there thanks to continued efforts on the part of public health officials and professionals doing their best to keep our country safe.

Vaccination is, of course, one of the key tactics being used to push COVID-19 back, thanks to its overall effectiveness at reducing the likelihood of contracting the disease and limiting its severity for those who do. The number of people getting the jab has slowed, however, and in early October Canada has reached roughly 77 percent of the population having received one dose and 72 percent fully vaccinated. To move that number higher, the federal and provincial governments have been setting their sights on encouraging unvaccinated people to get their shots more quickly. The private sector, including businesses in the construction industry, is also adding to the voices of those driving for higher vaccination rates.

Each province has its own approach to COVID-19 management, and the political spectrum is such that not every province will be going in the same direction when it comes to vaccines. Quebec, for example, has mandated that construction workers who are working near hospitals and long-term care facilities were to be double vaccinated by October 15. The province’s labour minister told media that the intention was to protect both the healthcare environment as well as the general population.

Quebec’s move is the first by a provincial government specifically targeting the construction sector, which has remained working almost constantly through the pandemic with a variety of adjustments and safety measures brought into place. Some large contractors, however, are moving to beat the rush and are establishing their own vaccination mandates for employees.

On September 14, EllisDon and PCL Construction announced they were bringing in vaccine verification requirements with the goal of ensuring their workplaces are safe for employees.

The companies will require full vaccination for Canadian employees working on their job sites by November 1, 2021, and noted that testing will not be offered as an alternative to full immunization.

PCL President and CEO Dave Filipchuk pointed out that full vaccination is the most effective way to reduce COVID-19

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

It’s vital that the industry focus on ensuring its workers are prepared and ready to be on the job when mandates come down.

Contractors who haven’t reviewed their own policies around vaccination for their employees should take the time now. spread, and that the vaccination requirement follows on PCL’s commitment to safety through masking, distancing, screening, PPE and other measures that have been instituted.

With national contractors like these coming on board, it’s very likely that the floodgates will open and more will follow soon. That means anyone looking at subcontracting on big projects may find that they and their employees are required to be vaccinated if they want to get those jobs.

All of this is driving concerns about deeper challenges surrounding a shortage of skilled workers, so it’s vital that the industry focus on ensuring its workers are prepared and ready to be on the job when mandates come down. Contractors who haven’t reviewed their own policies around vaccination for their employees should take the time now, as these regulations will almost certainly affect them in the near future.

Lee Toop Editor ltoop@baumpub.com heavyequipmentguide.ca

PICK UP SPEED. Whether your work is street repair, underground utilities, site development, or landscaping, the 345G Excavator has the agility and ability to tackle your toughest jobs with ease.

More Speed

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The three-pump hydraulic system delivers fast cycle times and smooth multifunction performance.

A reduced-tail-swing design helps you maximize productivity when operating in congested worksites.

The new design delivers greater reach, lift capacity, digging depth, breakout force, swing torque, and bucket capacity.

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NEWS ROOM

ASTEC PARTNERS WITH CARBONCURE TO OFFER SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION FOR CONCRETE PRODUCTION

A STAY CURRENT www.heavyequipmentguide.ca CONNECT WITH US @HeavyEquipGuide

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

STEC has entered a strategic partnership with CarbonCure Technologies, whose product enables concrete producers to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing its quality and strength.

The interest in low carbon concrete is increasing due to government regulations and incentives, requirements for green building certifications, and corporate sustainability initiatives.

ASTEC has rights as CarbonCure’s exclusive channel partner in the U.S. and Canada to offer its technology to customers looking for sustainable building solutions.

Because the building and construction sector is responsible for 40 percent of global carbon emissions, environmental experts recommend carbon dioxide emissions be reduced in the built environment to positively impact global warming. Concrete has a large carbon footprint due to cement production.

CarbonCure’s technology easily integrates within ASTEC’s new and existing ready-mix concrete plants. Their equipment reduces embodied carbon by injecting CO2 during the batching process, sequestering it within the concrete. Additionally, the CO2 creates a chemical reaction resulting in a strong, high-performing concrete while utilizing less cement.

According to CarbonCure’s test data, the concrete made with its technology maintains the same quality and benefits as traditional concrete mix designs.

Photo: E09-PCL-EllisDon-hardhats-NR

PCL AND ELLISDON IMPLEMENT CANADIAN VACCINATION VERIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

C

anada’s largest general contractors, PCL Construction and EllisDon, are implementing vaccination verification requirements in the continued effort to provide safe workplaces for their employees.

EllisDon and PCL will require Canadian employees working at any location on company business to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 by November 1, 2021. As of this date, testing will not be offered as an alternative to full immunization.

Any employee may request an exemption to the vaccination verification requirement due to proven medical condition(s) and other applicable human rights grounds.

“Being fully vaccinated is the most effective way to reduce the spread of COVID-19,” said PCL President and CEO, Dave Filipchuk. “PCL has instituted strict safety protocols throughout the pandemic, and this vaccination requirement is the next step in our ongoing commitment to keeping employees, clients, business partners and our communities safe. We are especially pleased to participate in this initiative with EllisDon, a respected industry peer. It is our hope that most general contractors and subtrade partners across Canada will soon join us.”

PCL and EllisDon will continue to comply with existing protocols and rules with respect to physical distancing, masking, screening, rapid testing, personal protective equipment and any other measures intended to reduce the transmission of COVID-19.

VOLVO NORTH AMERICAN PROTOTYPE LONG-HAUL AUTONOMOUS TRUCK REVEALED

V

olvo Autonomous Solutions and Aurora have unveiled the prototype truck integrated with driving technology that will form the basis for further development to establish autonomous trucking in the North American market.

The two companies have introduced a Volvo VNL long-haul on-highway truck as the next step toward launching fully autonomous Class 8 trucks in North America.

While research and development are supported by global team efforts, on-highway autonomous truck applications are also being designed and engineered in the U.S., in preparation for future production at Volvo Trucks’ New River Valley Assembly Operations in Dublin, Virginia.

WINTER IS COMING Turn to page 30 for cold weather tips for operating MEWPS, and on page 70 find out how utilizing your wheel loaders for snow removal can be a savvy business opportunity.

OCTOBER 2021 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

13

NEWS ROOM

MORE NEWS www.heavyequipmentguide.ca

NEW TEREX RECYCLING SYSTEMS DIVISION LAUNCHED

T

erex Materials Processing has launched Terex Recycling Systems which will design and build modular recycling systems that can be combined to provide customers with a tailored, one-stop-shop to meet their recycling needs. Terex Recycling Systems will initially focus on construction and demolition and commercial and industrial waste applications.

RITCHIE BROS. TO ACQUIRE SMARTEQUIP FOR $175 MILLION

R

itchie Bros. Auctioneers and SmartEquip have entered into a definitive agreement under which Ritchie Bros. will acquire SmartEquip for approximately US$175 million. SmartEquip supports approximately $1 billion in annual transaction volume with more than 600 OEM brands, on behalf of fleet locations across North America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific.

What does it take to be better? You have to be strong.

Be smart. Be resilient. Be innovative. You’ve got to go above and beyond. And that’s precisely why people choose JCB construction equipment time and time again: Because good enough is never good enough.

Check out our full line of JCB products at your local dealer or visit JCB.com today. /JCBNA

@JCBNA

www.jcb.com

Better_Brand_HeavyEquipmentGuide_August2021_7.5x4.875 14JCB044-JCB heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

JCBNA

UTILITY EXPO 2021 MARKS LARGEST TURNOUT IN SHOW’S HISTORY

U

tility professionals gathered in Louisville, Kentucky, as The Utility Expo brought the industry together for the 2021 show. Taking place from September 28 to 30, the 2021 installment was the largest in the show’s history with more than 950 companies spread across more than 1.4 million square feet of the Kentucky Exhibition Center.

BAUMA INNOVATION AWARDS ANNOUNCES NEW CATEGORIES

b

auma has added new categories to the bauma Innovation Award ceremony, taking place from October 24 to 30, 2022. To do justice to technical progress as well as social and political developments, the event’s task force has revised the categories. The new categories are: Climate Protection, Digitalization, Mechanical Engineering, Building and Research.

OCTOBER 2021 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

15

SPOTLIGHT

SPOTLIGHT

INTRODUCTIONS & UPDATES

Electric-drive dozer

Caterpillar

World’s largest electric-drive dozer The new Cat D11 XE dozer’s electric-drive system delivers constant power to the ground, continuous pushing and greater maneuverability for faster cycle times and improved fuel efficiency.

According to the company, when in production, this model will be the world’s largest, most powerful and efficient electric-drive dozer with high drive.

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

The D11 XE delivers up to 25 percent less fuel costs per bank cubic metre, up to 20 percent longer engine rebuild cycles than mechanical drive models, and it has 60 percent fewer moving parts. Machine protection reduces component damage for improved reliability, and updated electronics support Cat technologies including MineStar Command for dozing, which offers both remote control and semiautonomous operation.

A JOHN DEERE COMPANY

Sustainable solution www.wirtgen-group.com

CLOSE TO OUR CUSTOMERS

How can roads and buildings be maintained? By creating a stable foundation in all layers below. Sustainable construction starts with earthworks. Take advantage of innovative solutions from the market leader. www.wirtgen-group.com/smartsynergies

SPOTLIGHT

Concrete pump

Liebherr

Concrete pump with quintuple folding boom

The new 36 XXT truck-mounted concrete pump features a new 36m quintuple folding boom, Powerbloc drive unit and semiclosed oil circuit, as well as ergonomic access steps, simplified accessibility and an expansion of stowage and storage options.

An extremely compact assembly with no boom overhang at the rear ensures high maneuverability in confined spaces.

The travelling weight is approximately 26 tonnes on three axles, radio remote control enables sensitive boom movements, and the new five-piece boom delivers maximum flexibility, especially in buildings. The design and kinematics of the boom ensure minimal vibration and even work when placing concrete. Liebherr’s new Powerbloc pump drive unit has all hydraulic switching and measuring elements fully integrated.

This eliminates the need for numerous hydraulic hoses and other components.

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

Hybrid wheel loader

Komatsu

Hybrid wheel loader for surface mining

Komatsu’s WE1850-3 hybrid wheel loader can be used for main line production and shovel backup as well as cleanup and ramp building. The SR Hybrid Drive system is fully regenerative. During braking or retarding, electrical motors become generators and feed power back into the system. According to Komatsu, this allows for up to 45 percent less fuel consumption than comparably sized mechanical drive wheel loaders or hydraulic excavators.

For faster cycle times without a corresponding increase in fuel consumption, Generation 3 series wheel loaders include the Kinetic Energy Storage System (KESS), which works in concert with the SR Hybrid Drive to store horsepower captured from braking and direct it to supplement peak power demand.

John Deere Construction & Forestry

New SmartGrade excavator

SmartGrade excavator

John Deere has added the SmartGrade 470G LC excavator to its SmartGrade-equipped lineup. From digging trenches and structural foundations to shaping ditches or slopes, 3D grade control delivers precision excavation. In the cab, real-time monitoring of distance-to-grade reduces time to final grade, helping operators finish jobs quickly and accurately the first time. SmartGrade is factory installed and is calibrated from the dealer.

The excavator’s monitor utilizes a turn-and-tap rotary control for operation. Additional options include a premium high-back, thermal heat and actively cooled three-way adjustable leather seat. Other features include a single-pedal hydraulic propel system, a standard multi-language LCD monitor and rotary dial to provide access to information and functions, as well as LED lights at cab front and rear.

In addition to SmartGrade, the 470G LC model features additional precision technologies including Virtual Front, Over-Dig Protect, Virtual Ceiling, Virtual Floor, Virtual Swing and Virtual Wall.

Four grade management options are available: SmartGrade, SmartGrade-Ready with 2D, 3D Grade Guidance and 2D Grade Guidance. Upgrade kits can be installed onto equipment at a later date.

Anaconda Equipment

Mid-sized impact crusher provides consistent product shape

Impact crusher

Anaconda Equipment’s new I12-R impact crusher is a midsized plant designed to offer operators and contractors initial feed material reduction, continuous production and a consistent product shape.

Engineered for both quarry and recycling applications, this crusher comes with a 43-inch-diameter (1,090 mm) 4-bar rotor on a 45-inch-wide (1,140 mm) impact chamber.

The I12-R is also fitted with a large hopper area and a vibrating pan feeder with a two-tier grizzly section to help facilitate the movement of feed material toward the impact chamber, and to stop fine materials and dirt from entering the chamber.

OCTOBER 2021 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

19

IN-DEPTH REPORT: SMALL DOZERS

SMALL PACKAGE,

POWERFUL PUSHING SMALL DOZERS UNDER 25,000 POUNDS

IN-DEPTH REPORT

SMALL DOZERS

BY KAITLYN TILL, EDITOR IN CHIEF

CASE CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT 750M DOZER

IN-DEPTH REPORT: SMALL DOZERS

A

s working space has become smaller and efficiency needs have become greater on a range of construction sites, deploying powerful but smaller equipment is a must and can maximize efficiency in a range of jobs. Like their larger counterparts, smaller-size dozers under 25,000 pounds deliver considerable pushing power and can be outfitted with the latest in machine control technology, but they have some advantages: easier transportation; ability to fit into narrower areas, such as the lane of a road; and lower operating costs. Our panel of industry experts highlights how going smaller, where possible, can yield great results for many applications, such as road widening, brush clearing, residential and general construction.

According to Jeremy Dulak, product and marketing manager, dozers, with CASE Construction Equipment, the small dozer market is the largest size class in the industry and continues to grow. The key trends that are driving innovation in the small dozer category are primarily centred around operator experience and efficiency including comfortable cabs, easy-to-use controls and operation settings that maximize production.

“The workforce is changing,” adds Dulak. “Operators need a machine that they can get in and learn fast. Machine control and other integrated technologies are going to be a big part of the future.”

Matt Goedert, solutions marketing manager, roadbuilding, with John Deere Construction & Forestry, agrees that technology is part of the solution as the workforce changes. “When we think about challenges our customers face, it’s common to hear about the shortage of skilled operators. In this size class custom-

APPLICATIONS FOR SMALL DOZERS UNDER 25,000 POUNDS

As job sites get smaller or harder to access, smaller dozers are seeing growth in a range of applications.

“Maxing out at over 41,000 pounds of drawbar pull, CASE dozers in this size category are very versatile, with the ability to move a lot of dirt and perform finesse jobs like fine grading.

Grading and sloping, backfilling and land clearing are typical applications. These machines are also ideal for working on job sites where space is limited, and maneuverability is critical,” says Dulak.

Applications where he sees continued growth in this category include residential building, commercial construction, landscaping and agriculture.

Maneuverability has become increasingly important as the size of job sites has reduced – the agility of the smaller-size dozer is essential. These machines can work within a width of 130 inches, and the Cat blade is 128 inches wide, says Fritts.

Hydrostatic drive – power to both tracks – also enables this size of dozer to deliver the maneuverability that operators need.

“Any time we’re not moving large volumes of material, these small dozers are absolutely great,” says Kurt Moncini, senior product manager with Komatsu. The lower cost to transport is a significant advantage and, being smaller, dozers under 25,000 pounds usually have better visibility than larger dozers.

The lower acquisition cost and lower operating cost will also allow you to give a lower job charge-out rate. It’s a more cost-effective machine to put on a small job.

Land clearing is another common application for these machines, and the key to working effectively in this application is Often with smaller dozers narrow weight and horsepower. blades are often taller and sometimes “The weight is what does the work, and the horsepower is just the rate at which you can can have a higher capacity than wider do the work or how much time it takes to do blade offerings. This may have an effect it,” says Fritts. “So if a customer has a material that is smaller, let’s say something that may be on performance in varying ground a tree or material that is 10 inches in diameconditions or applications where blade ter, [Cat’s 22,000-pound] dozer can handle that size fairly easily. But if you get up in a bigger penetration and moving mass amounts size material you’re trying to clear, you’re going to have to go up to a little bit heavier of material is important. weight machine to get that work done.”

Moncini concurs that, while this size Matt Goedert of dozers is great for piling brush, which Solutions Marketing Manager, Roadbuilding, doesn’t require much weight and horseJohn Deere Construction & Forestry power, these dozers are too small for undisturbed sites that need stump removal and the clearing of larger trees. ers are asking for machines that are simple to operate with techThe advantage of using a small dozer for land clearing nology to enable operators to stay comfortable and productive.” enables you to maneuver around obstacles, access tight spaces Andrew Earing, senior product manager with Komatsu, and minimize ground disturbance around areas that need to agrees, and says that when it comes to features, machine constay intact, adds Goedert. Operators can also travel between trol is seeing steady growth as customers seek more efficient trees and through other confined areas. solutions for their work that can increase their profitability.

The versatility of the small dozer makes it ideal for satisfying BLADE OPTIONS AND RIPPERS many of today’s infrastructure jobs, such as road widening, and Our experts agree that the 6-way power angle tilt blade is the Joel Fritts, product application specialist for small dozers with most popular option for small dozers. It can be tilted on the Caterpillar, attributes their increase in popularity with not only ends and also angled like a motor grader blade as well as raised that road construction work, but also with residential jobs and and lowered – and Fritts suggests it’s almost like having a motor other types of general construction that are often needing to be grader on tracks. done in a shrinking footprint.

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

B O B C AT.C O M

THE R-SERIES T76 FROM BOBCAT

The R-Series T76 compact track loader is packed with performance and durability to accomplish more on today’s jobsites.

Bobcat is a Doosan company. Doosan is a global leader in construction equipment, power and water solutions, engines, and engineering, proudly serving customers and communities for more than a century.

Bobcat®, the Bobcat logo and the colors of the Bobcat machine are registered trademarks of Bobcat Company in the United States and various other countries. ©2021 Bobcat Company. All rights reserved. | 1465

IN-DEPTH REPORT: SMALL DOZERS

CATERPILLAR D2 DOZER

JOHN DEERE CONSTRUCTION & FORESTRY 550K DOZER

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

Moncini says that 30 years ago, a straight blade would have been most common, but “The ability to angle, to pitch left and right, makes [a power angle tilt blade] ideal for grading, spreading and side casting material, all with one blade. They can do all of those applications easily and don’t require an additional machine.”

CASE offers blades ranging from 90 to 124 inches, and given the variation of transportation requirements, ground conditions and applications, the company offers multiple blade options for each dozer model.

Depending on the model, John Deere customers can choose between five different blade sizes. When selecting a blade, it is important to keep in mind the applications you’ll be using your machine in, as well as the material type.

“A wider blade will cover more area while a narrow blade will fit into tighter spots. In general, it’s important for customers to pay attention to blade capacities when configuring a machine.

Often with smaller dozers narrow blades are taller and sometimes can have a higher capacity than wider blade offerings.

This may have an effect on performance in varying ground conditions or applications where blade penetration and moving mass amounts of material is important,” Goedert says.

There are a range of rear attachments available for small dozers, including counterweights, draw bars, winches, hitches and rippers. John Deere has seen a trend of more small dozers leaving the factory with rippers. Adding the ripper provides two benefits: penetrating harder ground makes it easier for the blade to doze, and the weight a ripper adds to the rear of the machine. This extra weight can increase pushing power with the blade.

Fritts comments that rippers are not as common on smaller machines as they are on larger dozers, but there is a place for them in ripping up the ground and scarifying it. Cat offers a three-shank ripper as an option.

Moncini believes it is more appropriate to use the term “scarifiers,” rather than rippers, since these smaller-size dozers don’t have sufficient weight and are not designed for ripping rock.

They do, however, excel at breaking up hard pan or other compacted soils, enabling the dozer to load the blade faster and get better blade loads. He suggests it’s one of the best options for improving job site efficiency by expanding small dozer zones of application.

CAB FEATURES INCREASE COMFORT AND EASE OF OPERATION

The cab is the operator’s office, and new features make cabs on small dozers more comfortable and the machine easier to operate, especially for newer operators.

“It used to be like the operator was at a gym sometimes, when [they were] operating the machine, pulling heavy levers and putting in a lot of effort,” says Fritts. That has changed and now it takes very little effort to operate the machine. Fritts credits DH-type controls with lowering and simplifying machine operation.

“One key thing in the cab that we try to do at Cat is to make it easy for the operator to run the machine. That’s probably one of our customers’ biggest needs – finding operators. Our task is to try to meet that need and to design a machine that is easy for a person to get in and operate and be efficient.”

Contractors want a machine in this size class that is simple and comfortable to operate, Goedert says. He highlights John Deere’s rigid-mounted controls. “This means the sus-

It used to be like the operator was at a gym sometimes, when [they were] operating the machine, pulling heavy levers and putting in a lot of effort.

Joel Fritts Product Application Specialist, Small Dozers, Caterpillar

pension of the seat moves without the controls or arm rests moving, which helps keep the operator’s arms and hands steady and prevents unwanted movement when travelling over rough terrain.”

Another feature that simplifies operation is John Deere’s Sealed Switch Module (SSM), which minimizes the number of switches throughout the cab and provides a centralized control panel with solid state electronics for greater durability compared to mechanical switches. The SSM operates through the machine’s CAN network, significantly reducing the number of wires.

CASE has incorporated several features into dozer cabs for improved operator comfort. A positive-pressure cab with advanced sealing and premium air quality system from Sy-Klone helps keep out dirt, dust and noise. This creates a working environment with a low sound rating of 75 dBa. CASE cabs feature an isolated design that reduces cab vibration and provides a smoother ride and the cab-forward design provides exceptional visibility to the blade edge during operation.

Komatsu has focused on updating its cab as well. “We’ve spent a tremendous amount of time on these smaller dozers, addressing ride, sound, visibility and controls,” says Moncini.

Komatsu moved the cab forward so that when the machine pitches forward and back, the operator won’t feel the machine moving as much.

Komatsu has also moved the radiator from the front to the back, enabling its dozers to feature a more sloped hood. As younger operators are coming in, it is essential that they have excellent ability to see easily around the machine, and most importantly to the left and right edge of the blade. Moncini says that Komatsu’s expansive glass area in the cab also benefits visibility.

TECHNOLOGY OPTIONS FOR SMALL DOZERS

Machine control for fine grading, which enables a machine to hold and maintain the blade to a set 2D angle or pre-programmed 3D job site plan, has been picking up in popularity over the last few years on a range of machine types – and small dozers are no exception.

Key advantages of using grade control on a dozer include saving money on materials and getting the job done with fewer passes. Caterpillar has designed its recent machines with a OCTOBER 2021 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

25

IN-DEPTH REPORT: SMALL DOZERS

KOMATSU D39PXI-24 DOZER

focus on this technology, and Fritts considers it to be part of the whole package.

Cat offers grade control in either 2D or 3D. In 2D, the company offers Slope Assist, which controls the blade to a specific angle in the second dimension. It’s ideal for when a customer does not have a 3D job site plan, but the operator is able to control the blade so that they don’t have to do as many passes.

Fritts says that 3D grade control is becoming much more popular now as the majority of Cat’s customers have some kind of digital plan from the engineer or their customer.

These systems can come installed directly from the factory, or the dozer can be retrofitted. Fritts emphasizes that by reducing rework, contractors are saving time, materials and fuel – and the operator won’t be as fatigued at the end of the day.

“While the adoption of 3D grade control systems has been significant over the last five-plus years, there is still a place

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

Any time we’re not moving large volumes of material, these small dozers are absolutely great.

Kurt Moncini Senior Product Manager, Komatsu for entry-level grade control technology to grow adoption and simplify tasks,” says Godert. “Over the last couple of years at John Deere we have launched Slope Control on many of our dozers including the 450K, 550K and 650K. Slope Control fills a need for less complex technology which doesn’t

Outstanding lifting power and excellent manoeuvrability.

• Market-leading Comfort cab with 360-degree vision for optimal safety and productivity • Available with ‘auto power’ for enhanced loading cycles and excellent efficiency • Continuously variable hydrostatic drive system provides maximum tractive force • Quick couplers available for compatibility with other manufacturers’ systems and Liebherr Wheel Loaders • Models available: T 55-7, T 60-9, T 33-10 • An excellent all-rounder machine tailored to your specific application requirements

Telescopic handlers T60-9 and T33-10

Liebherr-Canada Ltd. • 1015 Sutton Drive • Burlington • Ontario • L7L 5Z8 • Phone: +1 905 319 9222 • E-mail: info.lca@liebherr.com • Instagram: @LiebherrCanadaLtd • www.liebherr.ca

IN-DEPTH REPORT: SMALL DOZERS

Operators need a machine that they can get in and learn fast. Machine control and other integrated technologies are going to be a big part of the future.

Jeremy Dulak Product and Marketing Manager, Dozers, CASE Construction Equipment use a 3D model or external reference such as a base station or laser while still automatically controlling the blade for the operators.”

Slope Control gives operators the choice between operating in Target or Joystick mode. Target mode allows the operator to define a cross slope and a main slope that the blade will maintain; Joystick mode allows the operator to make manual corrections. This technology helps operators to maintain drainage and it does not rely on an external reference point, so it can even be used under obstructions.

This technology can also be upgraded to John Deere’s 3D SmartGrade technology, and its Auto SmartGrade feature will integrate the grade control system with the machine’s power management system to control the blade based on engine load.

CASE is focusing on scalability and long-term value as well as accessibility when incorporating machine control into its dozer line.

“Early this year CASE introduced factory-fit machine control on its 750M through 2050M dozers,” says Dulak.

“The new offering includes factory-installed and calibrated 2D, dual mast 3D and SiteControl CoPilot precision construction solutions from Leica Geosystems. This option simplifies acquisition and allows dozer owners to group the precision solution of their choice in with the initial purchase of the machine.”

Other CASE technology features include an advanced load monitoring system that automatically reduces track speed and increases torque when there is a heavier load on the blade, and increases track speed when there is a lighter load on the blade to optimize power and efficiency. CASE’s smaller dozers allow operators to adjust shuttle and steering sensitivity to Smooth, Moderate or Aggressive to match job site conditions.

Komatsu’s intelligent Machine Control 2.0 (iMC 2.0) 3D technology now features lift layer control, which allows operators to place consistent soil lifts based on existing terrain for compaction. When the layers are consistent, you can get consistent compaction to ensure that the entire site is uniform. Proactive dozing control tracks the job site and maps the terrain to compare with the model specifications, which makes the soil removal process more efficient and conserves fuel.

Ultimately these technology offerings are designed to make the grading job not only go more efficiently, but assist newer operators. “The number one customer need that we hear continually is finding someone to operate that machine,” says Fritts. The goal of adding machine control and other technology features is to make it as easy as possible for the operator to utilize.

That need to make machine operation as simple as possible to address the needs of new operators coming into the workforce is heavily emphasized by our experts, and ultimately today’s small dozer design is targeted toward getting those new operators in the cab and developing their confidence to get jobs done accurately and efficiently – whatever their application. HEG

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

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LIFT & ACCESS

4 TIPS FOR MEWP OPERATION IN BELOW-FREEZING TEMPERATURES

BY DAVID LOMBARDO

W

hether working in a refrigerated food processing warehouse, a cold storage facility or outdoors in winter weather conditions, many battery-powered MEWPs (mobile elevated work platforms) are designed to work in below freezing temperatures. For example, JLG mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) are designed for operation in nominal ambient temperatures of 0° to 104° F (-20° to 40° C) – because the need to complete work overhead, or in the air, occurs year-round, in all temperatures and climate conditions.

WORKING IN EXTREME COLD

To keep MEWPs in good operating condition, as well as extend their life expectancy in extremely cold operating environments, optional cold weather packages should be utilized when working in ambient temperatures colder than 0° F (-20° C). Utilization (with or without the cold weather

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

package) below 0° F (-20° C) should be at the discretion of the owner/operator, given the condition and capability (engine oil specifications, hydraulic fluid specifications, etc.) of the equipment.

It is important to know that under no circumstances should any MEWP be utilized in temperatures below -40° F (-40° C).

However, these cold working environments can impact the performance of the battery, resulting in slower or sluggish machine functionality, and it can also reduce the battery’s capacity by 50 percent, requiring more frequent charging.

To get the best performance out of your battery-powered MEWP when working in cold environments, it is important to keep the machine’s batteries fully charged and warm. So before getting to work in these conditions, consider being proactive with your daily battery care and preventive maintenance routines in order to prevent downtime resulting from a dead battery in below-freezing temperatures.

HERE ARE FOUR TIPS TO HELP YOU KEEP BATTERIES HEALTHY:

1

WHENEVER POSSIBLE, CHARGE THE BATTERIES

2

PLUG IN THE BATTERIES OVERNIGHT

3

Plugging in a battery-powered MEWP frequently (also known as opportunity charging) to charge the batteries is one of the best ways to safely and productively use these machines in cold environments.

Why? Working in extremely cold temperatures causes bigger drops of voltage in lead-acid batteries (common in many of today’s battery-powered MEWPs) during operation, which results in the machine’s control system thinking the batteries are nearly out of charge. When this happens the control system, which is designed to protect the machine’s vital components including the battery, will limit performance in order to preserve basic machine functionality.

Keeping the batteries as highly charged as possible will keep the batteries’ voltage in an optimal operating range, resulting in the least amount of voltage drop.

This will also make sure that the most charge from the batteries is available at any given time for continued machine use.

Plugging in a battery-powered MEWP overnight will ensure that the machine starts each work day fully and completely charged.

How? Charging the batteries overnight will warm up the batteries, making sure they are ready to work when the machine is turned on in the morning. And having the most charge available from the batteries is the best way to minimize larger voltage drops during operation (remember: this results in the machine trying to conserve its energy by reducing functionality and slowing down operation). Operating with a full charge gives operators the opportunity to complete the maximum amount of work cycles as possible with the machine throughout the work day.

Charging the batteries overnight will also prevent the batteries from becoming deeply discharged. If this happens in extremely cold temperatures, the electrolyte in the batteries can freeze, expand, crack the casing and leak. A frozen battery means the machine won’t function and repairs (or replacement) are required. It is important to note: never charge a frozen battery as this could cause it to explode.

To maximize uptime and minimize downtime, make sure to charge the battery for 4+ hours (8–10 hours is ideal) in between work shifts.

KEEP THE BATTERIES WARM

It is best to move the MEWP out of the cold weather before charging its batteries.

Why? Although the MEWP’s batteries can accept a charge when they are cold, it will be at a lower rate. For better results, park the MEWP indoors or in warmer temperatures (at room temperature is best) when charging.

4

PERFORM PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE TASKS

Following the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines for battery maintenance, noted in each MEWP service manual, significantly contributes to getting the most life possible out of the batteries.

How? Changing the hydraulic fluid and filters as prescribed in the machine’s service manual (each specific machine has one) will help to avoid potential hydraulic system damage and ensure the best performance when temperatures drop. For example, appropriate engine and hydraulic oils should be based on ambient working temperatures. For more information regarding appropriate oil selections, reference safety and maintenance manuals that come with the machine.

And, replacing aged or weakened batteries will ensure that the machine is performing at maximum strength – because as batteries age, they will not perform as well as they did when new and are more likely to have issues when working in colder temperatures.

Also, check the batteries’ water levels and top off if they are low. Remember: do not use tap water to fill the batteries. It is important to keep the batteries’ electrolyte levels in balance, especially in colder conditions, and to do this, distilled or deionized water is best. Keep a gallon on hand to use as needed.

DAVID LOMBARDO is chief electrical engineer at JLG Industries.

OCTOBER 2021 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

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LIFT & ACCESS

JCB 555-260R ROTATING TELEHANDLER, THE EUROPEAN EQUIVALENT MODEL TO NORTH AMERICA’S 512-83R.

JCB

COMPANY’S FIRST ROTATING TELEHANDLER LIFTS 12,000 POUNDS

J

CB North America has introduced the first model in a new rotating telescopic handler range. The 512-83R offers a maximum lift capacity of 12,000 pounds (5.5 tonnes) and a maximum working height of 83 feet (25.5 m).

With a robust boom construction and a familiar driveline, JCB says that it has focused on maximizing reliability, versatility, productivity, ease of use and safety with its first rotating telehandler.

To ensure that set-up time is minimized, the stabilizers have Auto one-touch deployment, stowage and levelling. Competitive lift-end cycle times and high auxiliary flow rates for efficient winch work boost productivity further. With a lower chassis mounted engine layout, the machine offers excellent access and serviceability. A low, clean boom design is designed for allround visibility, augmented by work light options and camera

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kits, including a boom head camera.

The machine is powered by JCB’s 145-hp (108kW) Ecomax engine, offering a high degree of parts and service commonality with other Loadall models. The JCB LiveLink telematics system comes standard with a 5-year subscription.

The 512-83R can be used with a wide range of attachments including pallet forks, carriage winch, jib winch, a reduced height jib, a lifting hook, light-duty bucket, 360-degree rotating forks and a range of fork-mounted accessories. The machine also offers remote-control lift-end operation and the availability of aerial access platforms, making the 512-83R three machines in one – a telehandler, a crane and a mobile elevating work platform. A range of specially developed JCB attachments using RFID technology can be identified by the machine to automatically offer the correct load chart for the operator.

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LIFT & ACCESS

5 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN YOUR NEXT TELEHANDLER

T

elehandlers are a vital part of many job sites. Thanks to their versatility, ability to increase productivity, safety advantages, maneuverability and ever-improving technology, they’re key to optimizing operations.

Adding a telehandler to your fleet means knowing what to look for. Here are 5 essential details to keep in mind when buying your next telehandler.

FIND A MODEL THAT FITS YOUR NEEDS

The last thing you want is to have a telehandler sitting idly by on your worksite. The best way to maximize your operational gains with a telehandler is by using it as much as possible.

To find the right model, you need to know if you require long boom reach, lifting capacity, a machine for the farm or for a construction job site, a compact machine to fit in tight spaces or a rotating telehandler to lift material or humans high up.

Your daily task and your trade will influence your choice. For example, a 360-degree rotating telehandler such as the Merlo Roto is extremely popular on residential construction sites with roofers, framers, form workers, and steel erectors since the machine can work 10 hours a day, lifting material far out and high up, without ever changing position.

Working with the right telehandlers can offer increased productivity, even when you’re not inside the cabin. A remote-control option is great for when you must work in tight areas or from a basket or platform.

When a telehandler is on a worksite, operators can save time and effort thanks to the efficient build, the ability to switch attachments fast and their versatility to be used for almost any task.

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CAPABILITY CONSIDERATIONS

Your telehandler is a jack of all trades, and should be capable of handling any task on your worksite. Need to load or unload materials from a delivery truck? Use a telescopic forklift. Need to lift bricks to your masons on the fourth floor of a residential building? Lift it with the telescopic boom. Working on an excavation project? Telehandlers equipped with a bucket can provide plenty of digging power.

On the search for your next telehandler, versatility should be near the top of your list. Telehandlers can be found working on landscaping projects in downtown Montreal or driving through the Alberta prairies. This level of versatility is key for your operation. Unloading, handling, lifting materials or workers, stacking, digging: most owners put telehandlers at the centre of their operations.

It’s the reason telehandlers can be seen on high-profile projects such as Toronto’s Eglinton Crosstown LRT project, the Calgary west road, the Montreal light train and several bridge maintenance jobs across the country.

Your goal when purchasing your next telehandler should be to find a machine that can replace the capabilities of two or three of your other machines – such as a forklift or skid steer.

Look for capability that will deliver the best solutions to your operations. Factors to consider include: Performance • Speed – how fast can the machine travel from one site to another?

• Power – how much can it lift?

• Precision – a hydrostatic transmission can ensure millimetric variations in the movements of the machine and in the positioning of the load.

MERLO P120.10+

• Stability – a perfectly balanced machine with no extra rear counterweight, strong outriggers and automatic frame levelling.

Efficiency • Maneuverability – a short turning radius and 4-wheel steering can allow you to turn on a dime.

• Size – a compact and lightweight machine enables better access to tight spaces and guarantees safety, maneuverability, productivity and lower fuel consumption.

Comfort • Cabin – a large cabin with AC/heating and 360-degree visibility will keep operators comfortable and safe.

• Cabin and boom suspension – good suspension allows for faster operation without compromising operator comfort or the load.

DON’T SKIMP ON SAFETY

Before anything else, safety is the most important aspect of any operation. From a construction site to a dairy farm, the safety of your machine operators and workers comes first.

When you’re using a machine as much as you use a telehandler, your operator needs to always feel safe and comfortable.

This not only helps prevents injuries and accidents but also increases productivity and efficiency. Many safety features on telehandlers are also designed to provide operational gains.

Features such as 360-degree visibility allow the operator to see the entirety of their surroundings, and also let them work more quickly as they don’t have to check for blind spots.

Other safety features can be more subtle, yet just as effective.

Load sensors will warn you if you’re carrying too much weight before you tip. Some brands offer a reinforced “Ring of Steel”

THE TILTING CAB ON A ROTATING TELEHANDLER.

that wraps around the chassis and protects the machine, as well as its internal components.

THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY

Telehandlers equipped with sensor technology, such as those on Merlo machines, can track load weight, the attachment, height and angle in real time on an LCD screen in the cabin.

This technology should extend to every part of your next telehandler. Features like a tilting cabin are often the difference between buying or not buying a rotating telehandler.

“The tilting cab is a must-have because it just changes your visibility, never sitting there with your head bent, you can go up and down as you need to,” said Winston Miller, owner of Winston the Framer, a production framing company in the Ottawa region. “It just makes your day so much more comfortable.”

Features such as a large cabin, boom side-shift, cabin suspension system and auto-levelling are all appreciated by operators who spend hours working in the machine each day.

SELECTING THE RIGHT DEALERSHIP

Another key is to find a dealer that will become a partner to guide you well before and after the sale. Telehandler specialists, like Manulift, have experts that are 100 percent dedicated to telescopic handlers. This means that they offer expert service, machine training, fast response, specialized road and workshop technicians, financing experts and good selection and availability of parts. When keeping these details in mind during the purchasing process, your next telehandler will help you take your business to the next level.

This article was submitted by Manulift.

OCTOBER 2021 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

35

LIFT & ACCESS

SNORKEL 660SJ BOOM LIFT

SNORKEL

MID-SIZE TELESCOPIC BOOM LINE UPGRADED WITH HIGHER LIFT CAPACITIES

S

norkel has upgraded its line of mid-sized telescopic boom lifts, all of which will now feature a new dual-envelope design as standard, delivering higher lifting capacities on all six models. The Snorkel 400S, 460SJ, 600S, 660SJ and 600S and 660SJ All-Terrain have been fitted with a newly designed, globally compliant jib boom. Measuring 5 feet 6 inches (1.67m), the new jib boom reduces the stowed length of the unit for ease of transportation, while enabling higher lifting capacities.

All six upgraded models will now deliver a maximum plat-

form capacity of 1,000 pounds (454kg) with a restricted working envelope and 600 pounds (272kg) unrestricted. Snorkel says that this update has been developed in response to customer demand, and that the higher lifting capacities enable workers to carry additional tools and materials to the work area, increasing job site productivity. The latest models also feature upgraded controls with a visual indicator showing the operator which capacity zone they are in, and clearer graphical display for ease of operation.

SKYJACK PARENT LINAMAR FORMS GROUP TO PURSUE ELECTRIFICATION

L

inamar Corporation, the parent company of Skyjack, has formed eLIN Product Solutions Group which will focus on leveraging electrification opportunities for Linamar’s products in its Mobility and Industrial businesses, as well as future new markets. eLIN will utilize McLaren Engineering’s development and testing capabilities and Linamar’s global footprint to deliver eLIN products to the market.

The new eLIN group will fo-

36

cus on four key areas: Power Generation, Power Storage, Propulsion Systems, and Structural & Chassis offerings for electrified vehicles in all of Linamar’s businesses.

Linamar’s McLaren Engineering group has had success in electrifying products, including: developing e-axles for Light Vehicles (LV) and Commercial Vehicles (CV), continued development of hydrogen fuel storage tanks, expansion into battery struc-

heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

tures and EV subframes, electrification initiatives in its Skyjack business, a strategic alliance with Ballard Power Systems for the development of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) propulsion systems, and an advanced development project with Exro Technologies leveraging their unique inverter technology with Linamar’s e-axle and gearbox.

The group will focus on developing electrified product solutions for all business lines, developing electrification

strategies and winning new programs for existing plants and groups.

GENIE

TOOL KIT AIDS IN LOAD CALIBRATION TESTS

A

new calibration tool kit available from Genie Parts includes everything service personnel need to make it easier and faster to do a full load calibration test of Genie boom lifts equipped with digital Load Sense.

First introduced in 2017, Genie digital Load Sense has no linkages, no springs and no actuating parts for a simple and rugged design. It continuously monitors the weight in the platform and adjusts the operating envelope according to the boom lift's load chart.

In addition to testing the load sense system as part of the annual inspection, if a platform component is replaced due to

damage, a zero-load calibration can be performed to verify that Load Sense is operating correctly. By following 10 simple steps and using the kit, zero-load calibration can be completed in as little as 30 seconds.

The kit, which will be available globally and is compatible with most Genie boom lifts equipped with the digital Load Sense system, includes approved rigging, scale, chain hoist, and instruction manual, all contained in a portable carrying case. The chain hoist is used to put tension on the scale to apply the appropriate calibration weight.

AERIAL EQUIPMENT PRICES UP IN AUCTION RESULTS: RITCHIE BROS.

R

itchie Bros.’ September Market Trends Report showed positive results for aerial equipment, with prices up 29 percent in the United States, while medium earthmoving and truck tractors are up 38 and 36 percent respectively (for the three months ending August 31, 2021).

Ritchie Bros. has included a special focus on aerial

work platforms and material handling equipment sales in the United States and Canada.

High-usage and rental rates, as well as OEM production delays, have resulted in a sharp decline in the number of boom lifts, scissor lifts and telescopic forklifts sold in 2021. Combine this volume decline with the unprecedented demand Ritchie Bros. is seeing this year and you

get record-breaking returns for consignors. Over the past three months scissor lift prices

have inflated 15 percent, while boom lifts and telescopic forklifts are both up 16 percent.

OCTOBER 2021 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

37

LIFT & ACCESS

JLG

SELF-LEVELLING CHASSIS BOOM LIFT

J

LG Industries’ JLG 670SJ self-levelling boom lift is now available in North America. Equipped with JLG’s patented self-levelling technology, the 670SJ automatically adapts to terrain on slopes up to 10 degrees in any direction, while driving with full functionality at a 67-foot platform height.

The self-levelling technology is designed to adjust the boom lift’s chassis to the ground conditions – rather than having to adjust the ground conditions to the machine. This allows the 670SJ to navigate uneven terrain while driving at height from one job to the other without lowering the boom.

“Engineered with the world’s first fully integrated, self-levelling chassis, the 670SJ is a game changer for the aerial equipment industry,” says Shashank Bhatia, vice president of engineering for MEWPS, JLG. “On the underside of the machine, you can see that it has four independent axles, each controlled by its own smart hydraulic cylinders. These enable each wheel to separately follow the contour of the terrain and stay in constant contact with the ground. This not only allows the machine to continuously and seamlessly self-level, but it does so without requiring operator inputs.”

It also features three operating modes to maximize transportability. Self-levelling mode enables the machine to work at full height, with full functionality, on slopes up to 10 degrees. Travel mode can be used when the boom is stowed to move across the job site at a faster rate of speed. Shipping mode allows the entire

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

machine to be lowered once in position on a truck, reducing travel height.

All of these features are made possible through the machine’s advanced control system, which continuously receives performance data from various sensors on the machine. It then displays the information through a digital display and selectable screen interface in the platform during operation, ensuring users are more knowledgeable about what's going on at ground level while working at height.

JLG’s self-levelling technology offers a host of benefits, including reducing (and in some cases even eliminating) the prep work required to level the work area.

It also eliminates the trial and effort of repositioning a boom lift to find a level work area. This helps operators get into position and up to the work area quicker, maximizes reach capabilities and reduces the need for larger, higher reaching lifts on-site.

It provides a smoother ride due to its advanced control system, and is designed to continuously adjust to the terrain to keep the platform level and minimize movement.

This boom lift offers a 73-foot work height and 57 feet of horizontal reach, with 550-pound unrestricted and 750-pound restricted capacities. It also features JLG’s automatic, single-sensor load sensing system with zero-load calibration. This keeps the machine within the allowable work envelope by limiting range depending on the platform load.

SERIOUS LABS MEWP VR SIMULATOR OKAYED FOR IPAF PAL CARD RENEWALS

A

fter a rigorous review process, the Serious Labs Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) Virtual Reality (VR) Operator Training Simulator has been approved by the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) for renewals of its Powered Access License (PAL) Card. This is the first time that heavy equipment operators may renew their license by simulator, Serious Labs states.

IPAF has issued over two million PAL Cards worldwide.

Cards typically need to be renewed every five years.

The simulated MEWP PAL card renewal tests existing holders through a VR-based replica of the IPAF 3a/3b practical test. Two scenarios go through a pre-use check

on the machine and a practical course, just as if the operator was on a machine in the real world. Created from the data and results of trials over

the course of eight months, the course has an abridged theory session but the same practical session, based on ISO 18878 that is used in the

standard 3a and 3b courses.

The trial used experienced operators with a minimum three years’ experience who each held a valid PAL Card.

REACH NEW HEIGHTS The Snorkel S4740E reaches new levels of accessibility in more ways than one. It is also the only Snorkel electric scissor lift available with a choice of hydraulic or electric drive. Durable lead acid batteries provide long-lasting performance. The rugged and robust S4740E features a variable tilt system suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

As the tallest reaching electric slab scissor lift in the range, the S4740E boasts a maximum working height of 45 ft. 5 in. (14.0m) and features a spacious roll-out deck extension up to 48 in. (1.21m).

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 780-467-0600 OR VISIT WWW.AHERNCANADA.CA

Sales Service Parts

SNORKEL™ S4740E SELF-PROPELLED ELECTRIC SCISSOR LIFT ADAPTABLE DRIVE | ROLL-OUT EXTENSION DECK | NON-MARKING TIRES

© 2021 Ahern Canada. All rights reserved.

OCTOBER 2021 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

39

EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION

HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT EXCAVATOR FOR LOADING TOP TIPS TO ENSURE THAT EXCAVATORS USED REGULARLY FOR TRUCK LOADING FIT THE BILL

BY LEE TOOP, EDITOR

E

xcavators fill multiple uses on job sites of all kinds, frequently handling a variety of tasks in a day. Truck loading is one of those duties that comes up often, and in some cases excavators may spend the majority of their time in that role.

Loading trucks, whether with dirt from a construction site, aggregates in a quarry or many other materials, is a job that can benefit from outfitting the excavator in specific ways to ensure better efficiency and longevity. Size, bucket selection, technology, and other factors play a role in picking an excavator that can handle heavy-duty loading over time.

EFFICIENT SIZE SELECTION

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach for pairing up trucks and excavators thanks to the many variations that can occur between job sites and uses, it is important to be sure that the machine size selected can handle the trucks, production needs and cycle times desired for efficiency, said Sejong Ko, product manager, excavators with Volvo Construction Equipment.

“It’s important to match your excavators to your haul trucks to lower total cost of ownership – if they’re mismatched, you’ll be inefficient and burn extra fuel,” Ko said.

Ko advised to consider production targets for potential products as the driver for right-sizing a fleet. Pass matching equipment to reduce the number of cycles or using fleet sizing software to cut down on idle times can be helpful. The type of material being moved can also be part of the decision-making process.

“The material being loaded also gives you an idea of the bucket type and size needed, which can inform what excavator model makes sense. This can then be used to calculate how many bucket passes are needed to fill different truck sizes,” Ko said. “The location of trucks makes a difference as well. For example, will it be at the same ground level as the excavator or lower? Will it be at a 45-, 90- or 180-degree rotation for the excavator? These factors affect cycle times.”

Older equipment can be more expensive to run, thanks to higher fuel burn and longer cycle times compared to more

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

modern machines. Any fuel savings will add up over the course of a year, and those quicker cycle times aid in loading more over that time as well.

Machine size also comes into play with transportation costs – keep in mind how often the machine will be moving from site to site and factor that into cost considerations as well.

MATCHMAKING EXCAVATORS WITH TRUCKS AND BUCKETS

Matching up an excavator with a truck is best done by considering the number of passes needed to fill the truck. Ko said that the usual rule of thumb for truck loading is to fill the box in four to five passes for best efficiency.

“Loading in fewer passes lowers your operating costs because you’re limiting idle time, which means you’re burning less fuel, slowing down service intervals and putting less wear and tear on your machines,” Ko said. “Loader fatigue is also a factor. Operators loading trucks are constantly moving, and the fewer trips they must make, the less fatigue they’ll have throughout the day.”

Bucket selection plays a big part in successful, efficient load-

IF AN EXCAVATOR IS GOING TO BE USED FOR LOADING, THERE ARE A NUMBER OF FACTORS TO KEEP IN MIND.

ing work as well. Three factors come into play there, Ko pointed out: size, quality and its ability to match to the application.

“For size, consider the application you will use it in, the material type and density, excavator specs and haul truck capacity.

A bigger bucket is not always the solution – it can put more burden on frames and structure in terms of durability while also increasing cycle times,” Ko said.

Quality also plays a role; Ko suggests seeking out features that promote durability and reduced wear, like wear strips protecting the bucket’s side and back or side cutters that guard the cutting edge and improve penetration. A universal quick coupler can be a benefit if the operator is going to swap out attachments regularly.

Ko noted that there are a number of tools that can be used to help with sizing and set up of excavators for loading duties. Volvo’s Site Simulation tool works for mining operations by looking at haul roads, total yardage, time constraints and material to provide advice on the right haul trucks and excavators for the best efficiency.

There are other construction weight and excavator calculators available to help with sizing of excavators and machines – equipment dealers can provide support with this as well.

Consider the application . . . the material type and density, excavator specs and haul truck capacity. A bigger bucket is not always the solution – it can put more burden on frames and structure in terms of durability while also increasing cycle times.

Sejong Ko Product Manager, Excavators, Volvo CE

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EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION

MATCH THE SIZE OF A LOADING EXCAVATOR TO THE TRUCKS IT WILL BE LOADING.

KEEP VERSATILITY IN MIND FOR MULTIPLE TASKS

If an excavator is going to be used for loading most of the time but still have other roles on the job site, it needs to be versatile. You’ll likely need to swap out buckets for different uses, so a quick coupler is an important consideration, Ko noted.

Machines capable of changing up their operational settings can also be a benefit.

“Full throttle works for truck loading, but some tasks work better at a slower engine speed,” Ko noted. “Volvo excavators have nine settings within four work modes – Idle, Fine, General and Heavy.”

General modes are good for digging and excavation, and the Fine modes handle finish work like grading and lifting requiring more power and precise control. Heavy provides maximum power and aids with saving fuel. Ko noted that Volvo mid-size machines offer ECO mode, optimizing the hydraulic system to reduce flow and pressure losses and cutting fuel consumption.

Transportation needs to be considered for multi-use machines as well. Ko recommends thinking about options that make it easier to move the excavator around, such as a removable counterweight and retractable lower frame. Keep heavy-duty jobs or guarding needs in mind as well.

TECHNOLOGY AIDS OPERATORS IN EFFICIENT LOADING

Excavators have come a long way from their early days in terms of technology, and today’s machines have plenty of options that can be used to get loading jobs done easier and faster.

“Technologies like machine control, payload management and telematics are bringing increased accuracy – and efficiency and productivity – to loading operations by giving operators real-time insights on bucket loads and other data,” Ko noted.

“This helps reduce instances of overloading and underloading, reweighing trucks, and waiting times.”

Volvo’s machine control system, Dig Assist, works through an in-cab tablet. It uses sensors and GPS technology to improve accuracy when excavating. At the same time, it has features that operators can make use of for loading work.

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It’s important to match your excavators to your haul trucks to lower total cost of ownership – if they’re mismatched, you’ll be inefficient and burn extra fuel.

Sejong Ko Product Manager, Excavators, Volvo CE

Dig Assist offers on-board weighing, which collects data on bucket loads and tonnage moved per shift. Operators are able to set load limits moved for each truck or hauler being loaded, ensuring that each load is maximized without being overloaded.

Telematics may not seem as related to loading, Ko said, but it can provide interesting insights on the use of excavators for loading. Volvo’s ActiveCare Direct advanced telematics offer a variety of productivity and efficiency factors that can be used to improve loading operations. For example, a monthly fleet utilization report sent to users can provide an overview of operating conditions.

“This can help them identify trends, including whether certain machines are over- or under-utilized, allowing them to right-size their fleet,” Ko said. “For instance, if you see excessive wait/idle times on a particular hauler, you may need a different size of excavator. Identifying these trends ensures that your fleet is as efficient as possible, and that no machine or operator is running up project costs unnecessarily.”

Whether an excavator is working to clear excavation spoil, shipping out aggregates or loading a variety of other materials, having the right machine for the job is important. Choosing the correct excavator for loading is a sure way to improve efficiency and load up profit for owners. HEG

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EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION

JCB

REDUCED TAIL SWING EXCAVATOR CARRIES O CAPABILITY OF X-SERIES MACHINES

JCB’S 245XR IS THE FIRST REDUCED TAIL SWING EXCAVATOR IN ITS X-SERIES LINE.

S ON

The 245XR delivers all of the improvements that JCB brought to its excavators with the X-Series introduction while providing a shorter tail swing for tight work sites.

B

usy job sites can be a challenge for excavators to navigate and operate safely within, and many job sites are just getting tighter, especially in urban environments. Reduced tail swing excavators provide contractors with a smaller footprint while remaining capable and effective.

For JCB, which brought its X-Series of updated excavators to North America in 2019, reduced tail swing was an opening in the market that has now been filled by company’s first X-Series reduced swing machine, the 245XR. Targeted into the 22- to 26-ton market, the excavator delivers with it all of the improvements that JCB brought to its excavators with the X-Series introduction while providing a shorter tail swing for tight work sites.

X-SERIES BRINGS RANGE OF IMPROVEMENTS

The X-Series of excavators arrived in North America with a broad range of improvements targeting performance and operator comfort. A shift of the dig end moved it to a more centred spot on the chassis to improve stability, allow better lift and reduce stress levels on slew bearings. Hydraulic flow was increased thanks to the use of a 15 percent larger Kayaba valve block along with a quarter-inch increase in hydraulic hose diameter, which also results in smoother overall control.

JCB also changed the body profile of the machines to increase visibility, improve service access and expand the size of service bays as well as add better access to the engine overall. That redesign of the body also led to an increase in the size of the cab – it is now 15 percent larger, and JCB states it’s the biggest in the market.

Body design is one area in which reduced tail swing machines may need to compromise in order to maintain capability, but JCB says the 245XR’s cab remains the same as the other X-Series excavators – a full three feet wide. The X-Series cab features a number of seating options and a range of standard features for operator comfort such as an adjustable air suspended seat with mechanical lumbar support or an optional deluxe seat with heating and cooling.

Updated CommandPlus switch packs are on the right of the seat, with a seven-inch multifunction display. Eleven adjustable air vents are included, with multiple airflow modes. Climate control, Bluetooth radio, window blinds, refuelling pump and a tool kit are standard.

COMPACT SIZE IMPROVES CAPABILITIES IN TIGHT SPOTS

As the first reduced tail swing machine in the X-Series, the 245XR filled a big gap for JCB. Its tail swing is 40 percent shorter than the conventional tail swing 220X, allowing it to work in a radius that is five feet three inches less.

Equipped with a 9-foot 10-inch dipper arm, the 245XR has increased breakout force along with good reach. Using the monoboom, it has a maximum digging reach of 32 feet 1 inch, along with a max digging depth of 21 feet 9 inches. A range of heavy-du-

REDUCED TAIL SWING MACHINES ARE VERSATILE AND CAPABLE FOR A VARIETY OF JOBS.

ty track pads – 24, 28 or 31 inches – offer stability for digging across track or for lifting heavy loads. A dozer blade is available.

UPDATED ENGINE AND HYDRAULIC COMPONENTS

Under the hood, the 245XR features a Tier 4 Final JCB Ecomax 448 turbocharged diesel engine that generates 173 p.

It is equipped with selective catalytic reduction and exhaust gas recirculation but does not use a diesel particulate filter for emissions control. Start-up preheat, one-touch idle, auto idle and auto engine shutdown are all included.

X-Series hydraulics feature the latest Kawasaki pumps and a Kayaba main control valve for precision hydraulic control.

Hose diameters have been increased to provide improved flow with less resistance, which improve performance and efficiency. A new slew drive gives the machine high torque on acceleration and braking, improving controllability and refinement.

Engine access and serviceability are not impacted by the compact swing of the 245XR – large service doors provide easy access to checks and general maintenance spaces. Wide, well spaced steps and grab rails provide upper structure access for increased safety. The machine features extended intervals for maintenance; engine oil changes are at 500-hour intervals, while the air and hydraulic filters can reach 2,000 hours.

Guided by user feedback and previous model experience, the 245XR and other X-Series excavators have a variety of technology features built in. Advanced tool select makes it easier to swap from task to task and improves attachment handling by monitoring pressure and flow. The system allows for pre-programming of up to 10 attachments. Auto health check is available, as are hydraulic priority management and merged hydraulics.

OCTOBER 2021 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

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EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION

WELDCO TECH

TRACK ATTACHMENTS WITH BLUETOOTH TAGS

W

eldco Tech, the newest division of Weldco-Beales Mfg., has introduced new technology that adds Bluetooth technology to improve owners’ ability to track their attachments.

The Weldco Smart-Tag takes advantage of technology advancements to provide asset management benefits as well as embedded information for those using the tools. Smart-Tags, which are available in either bolt-on or welded options, are preloaded with serial tag data, parts books, installation and maintenance guides, and pre-ship images.

In addition, customers can use the tags to track their attachment’s movement and current location through secure and encrypted access via the Smart-Tag App. Weld-on tags are cloud-based with an encryption lock and can be accessed via cellular or Wi-Fi; they have a fiveyear battery life and work in up to -40 degrees C. Temporary or permanent beacons are available in different sizes.

Once in place, customers are able to take advantage of the Smart-Tag to keep an eye on their equipment’s condition through real-time monitoring.

Strategic placement of the tag allows for collection of key data including temperature, g-force impact and cycle times. Fixed or mobile gateways are used to transmit information from the tags into the cloud.

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

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DEMOLITION & RECYCLING

ELEVATOR GOING DOWN PACIFIC BLASTING & DEMOLITION DECONSTRUCTS THREE 100-YEAR-OLD GRAIN FACILITY STRUCTURES IN VANCOUVER, B.C.

BY KATHERINE MCCANN

DEMOLITION & RECYCLING

T

he deconstruction of the Pacific Elevator No. 3 (PAC 3) was required by the owner of the facility, Viterra Inc., as part of an overall upgrade at the Pacific Port Terminal in Vancouver, B.C. The deconstruction included abatement and demolition of three primary structures, including a railcar unloading building (track shed), grain processing building (workhouse) and grain storage silos (annex). The total building footprint was approximately 45,000 square feet.

The PAC 3 was built in 1918 at a time when Vancouver’s port was developing as a centre for trade following the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914. In 2010, with the facility approaching 100 years of age, it was deemed unsuitable for upgrade due to building envelope integrity issues and was permanently shut down. To address any potential future safety risks and negative impact to neighboring infrastructure, the environment, terminal employees, the local community and ongoing port operations, Viterra determined that the facility should be demolished.

In 2014, National Demolition Association member Pacific Blasting & Demolition Ltd. was invited to participate in competitive bidding for deconstruction of the facility. A combination of an experienced project team, sound deconstruction methodology and competitive pricing – along with a reputation for successfully completing challenging projects safely and efficiently – resulted in the company being awarded the project.

In 2015, the project was put on hold while other key facility upgrades (including installation of a new, low-emission ship loader and the removal of the obsolete ship loading and conveyance systems) were completed. The project was rescheduled, and Pacific Blasting & Demolition Ltd. mobilized to the site in June 2019, working continuously until the project was completed in November 2020.

The overall strategy for this project was to complete the work safely and efficiently while maintaining the ongoing grain terminal operations. The project work was sequenced to meet these requirements and, where possible, abatement and demolition activities overlapped with the aim of reducing the overall project duration.

What made this project unique was that the demolition approach had to be tailored to address the complexities and characteristics of each of the 100-year-old structures. This included specific health and safety risks, access constraints, a limited working footprint, structural integrity considerations, the presence of basements and associated material management, and adjacent ongoing industrial operations, to name a few.

THE DEMOLITION PROCESS

In advance of project commencement, a comprehensive planning phase was undertaken to establish safe work procedures for mitigating the potential health, safety and environmental risks arising from the abatement and demolition.

Development of the detailed engineered demolition plan required extensive investigation, including confirmation of slab thickness and reinforcement bar (rebar) patterns to inform the engineering modelling that was necessary to determine the overall integrity and impact the demolition would have on the structures.

Once the project plans were in place, the on-site work started with the establishment of site facilities and installation of environmental and safety control measures, including safety barriers, fencing, temporary lighting, guardrails and signage as necessary to ensure that the project safety requirements were met.

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What made this project unique was that the demolition approach had to be tailored to address the complexities and characteristics of each of the 100-year-old structures.

THE OVERALL STRATEGY FOR THIS PROJECT WAS TO COMPLETE THE WORK SAFELY AND EFFICIENTLY WHILE MAINTAINING THE ONGOING GRAIN TERMINAL OPERATIONS.

For all structures, the first step was to complete an initial cleanup to remove residual grain and biological hazards. Abatement followed and included removal of asbestos (in roofing, flooring, gypsum, window mastic, mechanical systems, conveyance equipment, firestops and other miscellaneous materials), lead, mercury and other hazardous materials.

Demolition of the track shed was the first priority for the project, as it had the biggest impact on terminal rail operations, with the existing rail tracks having to be removed as part of the demolition works. The track shed, covering a footprint of approximately 10,000 square feet, comprised a steel structure with interior concrete block walls constructed to a height of approximately 40 feet with a 17-foot-deep basement. The biggest challenge with demolition of the track shed was that one of the perimeter walls was built along the

property line of the adjacent busy container cargo terminal.

Activities had to be planned around shifting schedules, which required real-time communication between all stakeholders and extensive coordination. Keeping the container terminal operational required flexibility to readjust scheduled activities as needed to maintain productivity. Given the proximity to existing operational rail infrastructure, ensuring that excessive vibration and movement did not occur was also critical. Geotechnical monitoring and survey specialists were engaged to monitor the adjacent infrastructure and ground during demolition, backfill and compaction activities and ensure that the work was completed without compromise to existing facilities.

Upon completion of above-grade demolition and backfill of the basement, two of three rail tracks originally removed to OCTOBER 2021 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

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DEMOLITION & RECYCLING facilitate the demolition were reinstated. One track was located less than 20 feet from the workhouse and annex and had to remain out of service until all demolition was complete. With the two tracks back in operation, the project focus turned to the annex and workhouse areas.

Extending to a height of over 100 feet, the annex comprised a total of 77 concrete silo bins covering an approximate footprint area of 25,000 square feet. The initial project plan (pre-award) had been to use mini excavators and skid steers to complete the removal of roofing materials. Unfortunately, the pre-start engineering investigation determined that the roof structure could not support the weight of even small machines and the abatement and pre-demolition work had to be completed by largely manual means. To minimize the schedule impact from the change of method, a plan was developed whereby mechanical demolition of a portion of the structure could commence once abatement had been progressed past key portions of the structure.

Following abatement of designated areas, the structure was demolished to grade using the high-reach excavator working from a stable pad. The presence of a 12-foot-deep basement meant that in order to progress above grade demolition, basement voids had to be progressively backfilled to support the high-reach demolition excavator. Concrete arising from the demolition of the upper structures was directed down the silo bins and into the basement as the interim backfill.

Upon completion of above-grade demolition, the concrete was removed from the basement areas and replaced with a select granular subbase, which was subsequently compacted to meet project specifications.

Extending to a height of over 100 feet, the annex comprised a total of 77 concrete silo bins covering an approximate footprint area of 25,000 square feet.

Standing at over 165 feet tall with a 17-foot-deep basement, and an approximate footprint of 10,000 square feet, the concrete and brick workhouse was the tallest structure on-site and presented undoubtedly the biggest challenge to safe project execution. Given the height of the structure and space constraints around the building, a methodology was adopted whereby the upper five levels above the bin top floor had to be deconstructed floor by floor using a combination of manual demolition supported by smaller demolition excavators. Due to concerns with structural integrity, particularly related to the slab, the entire upper workhouse had to be shored, and all work was completed from swamp pads placed over structural beams. Shoring, equipment and tools were flown up and progressively moved between floors by crane.

Scaffolding was installed around the upper elevations of the workhouse structure and covered with debris netting to prevent materials falling from work areas. The scaffolding was progressively dismantled on a floor-by-floor basis as the dem-

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STANDING AT OVER 165 FEET TALL WITH A 17-FOOT-DEEP BASEMENT, AND AN APPROXIMATE FOOTPRINT OF 10,000 SQUARE FEET, THE CONCRETE AND BRICK WORKHOUSE WAS THE TALLEST STRUCTURE ON-SITE.

olition completed on each level. Once demolition of the upper workhouse was completed, scaffolding was removed and construction of an excavator pad for the high-reach excavator was completed in the footprint of the former annex area.

Similar to the annex structure, concrete had to be temporarily placed in the workhouse basement to enable progression of above-grade demolition. Once completed, the concrete was removed from the basement and replaced by an imported and compacted subbase material. The project concluded with the reinstatement of the final rail track that had been out of commission for the demolition duration, thus reinstating the client’s full rail capacity.

EXPECTED AND UNKNOWN CHALLENGES

A number of challenges were encountered during project execution, some of which were expected and others unknown when the project commenced. Undoubtedly, the biggest anticipated challenge was managing the health and safety risks to demolition crew and terminal workers. The safety risks to adjacent rail, shipping, grain terminal and container terminal operations had to be constantly managed during all activities. In addition, given the height of the working floors and thin concrete slabs, the potential for fall from height presented a significant hazard to workers. A full-time on-site construction safety officer managed site health and safety risks and ensured overall site safety by writing and reviewing safe work procedures and plans, ensuring equipment inspec-

THE DEMOLITION APPROACH HAD TO BE CONSTANTLY REEVALUATED BY THE ENGINEERING TEAM TO ENSURE THAT ALL METHODOLOGIES WERE APPROPRIATE AND SAFE FOR THE CONDITIONS BEING ENCOUNTERED.

tions were being completed, holding routine daily and weekly safety meetings, establishing heavy equipment exclusion zones, mentoring workers and ensuring training was in place, constantly inspecting work areas, and refining safety control measures as needed.

It was known that potential structural integrity issues were likely given the age and nature of the structure, particularly given that the main buildings had been constructed during World War I at a time when labour and materials, particularly steel, were in high demand. During demolition, cold joints were encountered between some of the working floors, and it was identified that the columns and beams in the upper workhouse levels had less rebar than would be expected for such a structure. As a result, the demolition approach had to be constantly reevaluated by the engineering team to ensure that all methodologies were appropriate and safe for the conditions being encountered.

One of the greatest unexpected challenges presented during project execution was the official declaration of COVID-19 as a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020, and subsequent declaration of a provincial state of emergency in British Columbia on March 18, 2020. As a result of the declaration, crew numbers dropped significantly as workers chose to stay at home and isolate even though the project had been deemed essential work and was able to continue. Health and safety protocols and procedures were revisited and revised to address the new risk associated with spread of virus, and control measures, particularly relating to social distancing and worker hygiene, were implement-

ed. Supply shortages, particularly disinfectant and cleaning materials, provided an added challenge to maintaining project activities. In addition, the emotional impact of the pandemic was not something that had previously been experienced, and crew distraction, fatigue, stress and fear associated with the virus had to be managed constantly to ensure that it was safe for work to continue.

A successful job is ultimately one that is completed safely while meeting the clients’ objectives and expectations.

Through effective application of sound project plans, team collaboration and proactive communication, the experienced Pacific Blasting & Demolition Ltd. project team safely demolished the PAC 3 structures with minimal impact to the clients’ ongoing operations.

The experience of the project team and the positive working relationship with Viterra and its lead consultants, particularly Ausenco Global Consulting Transportation & Logistics, allowed Pacific Blasting & Demolition to successfully navigate the project challenges and constraints resulting in an overall successful project.

KATHERINE MCCANN is a project manager with Pacific Blasting & Demolition Ltd.

This article was originally published in the July/August 2021 issue of DEMOLITION magazine. It is republished here with the permission of the National Demolition Association.

OCTOBER 2021 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

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DEMOLITION & RECYCLING

IMPACT CRUSHERS

FOR ASPHALT RECYCLING

MCCLOSKEY 14C

1 EVOQUIP COBRA 230

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2

RUBBLE MASTER RM 90GO!

3

KEESTRACK R3E

4 1

McCloskey’s 14C heavy-duty impact crusher can be used as a primary or secondary unit, and is designed for high mobility, performance and expanded versatility with fast set-up time and capability to work in tight spaces. The 14C has been designed with a deep chamber, creating greater tramp release space, an aggressive blow bar and apron design, 4-bar variable speed rotor, and three crush zones with an optional fourth strike. It also features an asymmetric feeder that reduces bridging and single-unit feeder-hopper construction designed to deliver better motion and vibration for material as it moves into the impact chamber; curved belt on the main conveyor; a low-voltage electrical system, hydraulics and control panel; and a chamber door safety sensor, built-in safety shutdown functions, chamber safety arm and a platform for changing blow bars.

2

EvoQuip’s Cobra 230 is designed for rapid setup time and features an intuitive control system to enable operators to begin crushing minutes after unloading the machine from a truck.

Operators can adjust settings easily without tools by using a standard, user-friendly hydraulic assist. According to EvoQuip, these tracked plants also feature excellent rotor access for clean-up and inspection. The fuel-efficient and high-performing direct drive system, along with two independent hydraulically controlled aprons, allows operators to optimize both material throughput and accuracy of size-reduction, while ensuring lower energy costs.

For optimal material flow, this impact crusher is designed so that as material moves from the feeder through the impactor onto the product belt, each section becomes wider, enabling unrestricted flow.

3

Rubble Master’s RM 90GO! compact mobile impact crusher is designed for performance, mobility, safety and ease of use. While ideal for asphalt recycling, it can easily switch between different materials, specs and job sites with a range of hammers. It has a 860 x 650 mm (34-inch x25-inch) crusher inlet opening, a 4- x 8-foot screen box, a wide core radiator that improves airflow and reduces dust build-up, and a return conveyor that can swing out 90 degrees for stockpiling additional oversize product. With capacity up to 200 tph and capability to produce spec material in a single pass, these compact crushers also weigh only 62,500 pounds, for easy transport with a set-up time as low as 15 minutes.

4

The diesel-electric hybrid R3e from Keestrack is engineered to achieve low emissions and low costs per ton, including running costs decreased by up to 70 percent when connected to a main grid electrical system.

Capacity is up to 250 tph. The robust rotor weighs 3,200 kg (without bearings), and with weight distributed toward the outside, provides a highly efficient crush with increased energy and inertia while improving throughput. Optimal placement of the blow bars on the R3e rotor allows for high contact and utilization, while the shape of the rotors allows for smooth entry of the material with less wear on the rotor body. It is designed with an integrated vibrating punch plate pre-screen. Fines can either be removed and stockpiled separately or they can bypass the crusher and blend with the finished product from the after-screen.

OCTOBER 2021 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

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DEMOLITION & RECYCLING

THE DYNASET HRBV AIDS IN CLEANUP OF DEMOLITION SITES.

A POWERFUL VACUUM DRAWS MATERIAL INTO THE HRBV FOR DISPOSAL.

RECYCLING VACUUM BUCKET HELPS SAVE MONEY ON WASTE DISPOSAL

M

evaset Oy is a company that specializes in demolition, established in 2015. When the company first started, it had one 30-tonne Doosan excavator and a single operator, owner and

demolition and other sites.

The HRVB Hydraulic Recycling Vacuum Bucket from Dynaset started out as a concept surrounding a “trash magnet” after a Mevaset worker suggested during a site

With the new bucket, it is possible to sort the waste better which means less mixed waste. Because the waste management fee of the mixed waste is much higher than the fee for sorted waste, the bucket is a wise investment.

Esa Mäntylä

CEO Esa Mäntylä. Five years on, the company has about 20 employees and a variety of machines – and in the process, has helped develop a unique attachment for cleaning up

56

clean-up that such a machine would be helpful. Mäntylä gave that some thought, then gave Dynaset CEO Reijo Karppinen a call. Over lunch, the two talked about the concept

heavyequipmentguide.ca | OCTOBER 2021

of a trash magnet, and the path toward development of the HRBV began.

The concept of the tool is simple: pick up the smaller pieces of debris that can prove problematic for recycling after demolition work is complete and clean the site better in the process.

The HRBV is an excavator attachment that features an onboard vacuum and air blower. Weighing just over 1,000 pounds, the bucket needs a hydraulic flow of 23.8 gpm. A number of quick couplers are available.

The unit can be used to scoop material into the chamber, or with the vacuum draw smaller material off the ground and into the bucket for cleanup. Pulling all that material together means it can be sorted far smoother and the amount of mixed waste generated is reduced.

“With the new bucket, it is possible to sort the waste better which means less mixed waste. Because the waste management fee of the mixed

waste is much higher than the fee for sorted waste, the bucket is a wise investment,” said Mäntylä.

Prior to having the HRBV, Mevaset would need to call in vacuum trucks to help with cleanup on demolition sites, Mäntylä pointed out. With the HRBV, material can be collected quickly and individually, reducing sorting time, either by using the machine to scoop the material or having an employee use a vacuum hose that attaches to the bucket.

There are significant time savings to using the HRBV – notably reduced work hours for cleanup, Mäntylä said.

Commonly, workers would need to collect small debris on demolition sites with rakes and bags, which Mäntylä said could take quite a lot of time and add to project costs. With the HRBV, that same job can be done with one worker, one bucket and one excavator.

Plus, there are environmental benefits thanks to the ability to recycle more materials, Mäntylä noted.

ROADBUILDING

Milling machines master Alberta roads

TWO HIGH-PRODUCTION PM622 COLD PLANERS CLEAR THE WAY FOR NEW WEST CALGARY RING ROAD

ROADBUILDING

S

moothly slicing through worn, decommissioned old asphalt roads and highways surrounding West Calgary, Alberta, Canada, two powerful 630-hp Cat PM622 Cold Planers with 88-inch drums tackle the third and final phase of the massive new Calgary Ring Road. On this project, all milling must be completed during daylight hours.

The portion of the Calgary Ring Road requires ConSite Construction’s work crews to strip out and remove 3,000 to 5,000 tons per day of worn asphalt from miles of decommissioned road and highway surfaces.

Asphalt depths on these old roadways can vary from 2 to 16 inches and extend right down to its gravel base while the roadways run for miles at a stretch.

The milling division of ConSite Construction is performing the milling chores using two Cat PM622s. The asphalt milling division employs anywhere from 10 to 15 crew members at any one time as part of ConSite’s 120-employee workforce that engages in both asphalt and concrete milling, removal and recycling.

Both PM622 machines were purchased from local dealer, Finning Canada, and one was bought through Cat Financial, which made the purchase process very smooth and easy, says ConSite division manager David Herman.

“The work week for our division is quite strenuous during the summer months,” Herman says. “We generally run about 24 days out of every month and log about 1,000 hours a year on each machine. In the shortened time frame we must work, that’s actually quite a bit. We were able to work the PM622s all through last winter.

“The start-up process has been great,” Herman adds. “As with any newer machines, there were a few hiccups at first, but Finning quickly resolved them, and they’ve always been good at listening to all of our concerns and immediately addressing them.”

When asked about the 630 hp on these PM622 milling machines, Herman says: “We max that power out just about every minute of every day. And it doesn’t matter how much power you have, you could always use a little more sometimes, but it’s actually nice to have so much power.”

The machines have a very helpful auto-speed-limit feature that automatically dials back the power, enabling working speed to be set to ensure consistent operation and then, when it ramps up, it prevents harm to the machine.

We generally run about 24 days out of every month and log about 1,000 hours a year on each machine. In the shortened time frame we must work, that’s actually quite a bit. We were able to work the PM622s all through last winter.

David Herman Division Manager, ConSite

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“It’s a very good feature that helps us, helps the machines, and we find it very useful,” Herman says.

In spite of consistently operating at full power, Herman notes the fuel economy of the PM622s is good.

“The 288-gallon fuel tank takes us through at least a 12-hour shift, which is basically all I ever want and hope for from a tank of fuel,” he says.

ConSite is also very happy with the productivity and the output of the machines which are milling at a width of 88 inches.

“It still surprises me every day, the accuracy we can achieve with a milling machine,” Herman says. “It’s organized chaos, yet organized chaos down to the millimetre, and it continues to amaze me just how accurate the grade controls on these

MONITORS AT GROUND LEVEL ADJUST CONTRAST FOR DAY AND NIGHT OPERATION, MAKING THEM EASIER FOR OPERATORS TO READ.

machines are.”

Regarding the learning curve on the PM622, Herman says: “Hands down, the Cat milling machines have the best operator functionality of any milling machines we’ve used, and I can say that with confidence. Similar to the stations that the operators use at ground level, the top-mounted stations are very easy to learn and very easy to operate.”

According to Herman, the monitors are one of the best features on the Cat milling machines.

“We like the monitors because their design permits them to change their contrast from night to daytime, so they’re always easy to read – it enhances their usability. That’s probably the one feature we love the most.”

ConSite appreciates how bright the Cat milling ma-

chine lights are at night, especially in limited moonlight conditions.

“They’ve been a feature that we loved right from the outset,” says Herman. “And the flexibility of being able to go from incandescent to LED lights is also a nice feature – and we’ve updated all of our machines to the LED lights.”

The service access doors on the PM622s offer quick access to service points, and the hood is very large, so it is quite easy to walk right into the bay on top and check fluid levels, hydraulics and everything else. Hydraulically raised hoods are an added bonus.

Herman states that his crews wash the milling machines every single night using the on-board pressure-washer system.

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ROADBUILDING

CONSITE’S PM622S WORKED THROUGH THE WINTER TO ACHIEVE A SHORTENED PROJECT TIME FRAME.

It still surprises me every day, the accuracy we can achieve with a milling machine. It’s organized chaos, yet organized chaos down to the millimetre, and it continues to amaze me just how accurate the grade controls on these machines are.

David Herman Division Manager, ConSite “If you don’t wash it every night, asphalt tends to harden up and the longer you let it go, the worse it’s going to be,” he says. “So, my operators actually demand that, even if it’s been a long day, we have to wash the machines every night, and it’s very nice and convenient having a pressure washer right on board.

“In our office, everything is tracked down to the penny when it comes to costs. Everything from wear products to fuel to amortization. It’s all tracked very thoroughly and even through the winter I can find out basically down to the dollar what I’m spending.

Based on ROI, Herman says the PM622s have been performing “as we expected and possibly even a little bit better. We are

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getting optimal use out of them.”

ConSite places a high value on the product support it receives from its Cat dealer.

“Finning has been hands down amazing to work with,” Herman says. “They’ve definitely helped with service, whenever needed, and I have the personal phone numbers of multiple people that I deal with there. I can’t say enough about how great Finning has been to work with.”

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ROADBUILDING

VOLVO CE UNVEILS AUTONOMOUS SINGLE-DRUM COMPACTOR CONCEPT

T

he CX01 concept utilizes one vibratory asphalt compactor drum that’s actually two independent halves (a splitdrum) kept upright by a self-balancing control system. It can be operated either remotely or entirely autonomously, and has both a diesel engine and an energy storage system. It can be operated in diesel-only, hybrid or fully electric modes.

“While the CX01 is a conceptual product, the research and development that have gone into it will benefit customers in other ways,” said Justin Zupanc, head of the Asphalt Compaction Development Team at Volvo CE. “It’s exciting for our engineers to push themselves to develop new and innovative ideas, and we’ve had personnel from the U.S. and Europe involved in the design, build and test phases of this concept.”

The operator is removed from the unit – reducing exposure to vibration, noise, dust and other associated environmental conditions – and freed up to autonomously control a fleet of CX units. These rollers can work together and communicate not only with each other, but also to other equipment. The machines could survey the jobsite, report on the conditions of the mat, including density, temperature and passes, and determine when and where to compact.

Rolling pattern, weight and number of rollers can all easily be adjusted to match the width, thickness and speed of paving operation. The CX01 can be matched with Volvo’s Co­-Pilot

system so that all work can be handled remotely. In addition, it uses GPS position tracking to monitor job performance.

“Remote control and autonomous operations are areas of focus for us in R&D. Also, while the low-friction water reduction coating on the drum shell is theoretical, it could be a huge benefit on larger machines to decrease the amount of water needed,” Zupanc said. “It is exciting to think how the theories showcased on the CX01 could be realized on compaction production units in the future.”

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Easi Pour 2020 quater page.indd 1

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LEADING ASPHALT TRADE SHOW AND CONFERENCE “This was my first show and it was a great experience. Being able to see and talk with all of the vendors within our industry was a huge benefit for my current position and professional growth.

I now feel as though I have a better understanding of our industry and what vendors are available as well as technologies. This adds excellent value to our organization.” — Jamie Bailey, Lehigh Hanson

March 29-31, 2022 | Nashville, Tennessee Register for tickets at worldofasphalt.com

TECHNOLOGY

SOFTWARE PLATFORM OFFERS CONTRACTORS ABILITY TO SHARE AND ANALYZE DATA EASIER

BY LEE TOOP, EDITOR

W

hen Trimble acquired Viewpoint in 2018, it also picked up an active and expanding platform of construction management software tools called ViewpointOne that gave users more ability to share and analyze data about their projects with more people.

Three years later, that platform has grown, expanded and been relaunched as Trimble Construction One, a connected construction management platform that provides key information allowing users to make the right decisions about their construction projects.

The cloud-based platform is interwoven with every phase of a project life cycle, and provides opportunities for contractors to, according to Trimble, “plan, do and manage” construction projects and their associated data to improve overall results on any project.

We create connected insights from the beginning. You estimate the project to win, and you utilize past performance and industry benchmarks to submit the winning bid.

Rachel Blair Winkler Vice President and Category General Manager, Trimble Viewpoint

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COLLABORATION BETWEEN THE FIELD AND THE OFFICE IS MADE EASIER WITH TRIMBLE’S CONSTRUCTION ONE PLATFORM.

“By connecting the workflows across planning in the pre-construction world, across projects and operations, management and what we call the ‘do’ area where a project is actively getting constructed, and to the financial and human capital management solutions that we have in our ERP, we are bringing all of this together to help contractors unlock more in differentiated value,” explained Rachel Blair Winkler, vice president and category general manager with Trimble Viewpoint. “We create connected insights from the beginning. You estimate the project to win, and you utilize past performance and industry benchmarks to submit the winning bid.”

Construction One gives contractors the tools to start at one end of a project and follow it through to construction and completion, while helping collect, store and use data beneficially all the way.

In the planning phases, Construction One is able to collect the data produced during estimating, design and pricing processes and connect them directly to the actual project results to provide more predictable construction outcomes. Estimators and detailers can work within the platform to ensure their contributions

are placed into the business enterprise resource planning system without double entries and using the proper reference data.

While the project is underway, project management, field management and service management units are available for users to work within, again collecting live data and adding it to the overall platform information, which results in optimal resource utilization and cost savings.

Throughout the process, the platform allows for more efficient management across the various project areas, including financial management, business operations, job costing, payroll and procurement. The result of this data sharing and collaboration is more efficient execution and greater profitability, Trimble says.

“We enable your digital transformation with a multi-platform approach . . . we provide digital procurement, digital forecasting and digital invoicing, automating paper-based or heavy data entry workflows. Imagine what you can do with that,” explained Betsie Hoyt, director of product management for Trimble Construction One. “It’s in the cloud. It connects the desktop, web and mobile applications to a single source of truth between the job site and the office. Or, as I like to say, loafers in the carpet with boots in the dirt.”

Data transformation is also a big part of Construction One, connecting all aspects of the business, its intelligence platforms and analytics systems to one another. That allows near real-time reaction to issues and optimization of future efforts, Hoyt said.

“Imagine what you can do with that type of data at everybody’s fingertips,” Hoyt said.

Data connections such as this allow contractors to review their data regularly, and in the process make better strategic decisions for their businesses. Current and historical data combine to give users a real-time view of projects, determine if there are potential concerns with taking on a new project or any issues holding work back, decide when to start hiring, and improve their bids by offering more effective cost projections. It’s a broad-based opportunity to review a whole operation and find what is the right way for that operation to move forward on projects.

Winkler said that Trimble Construction One has a number of key value pillars for contractors, starting with precise pre-construction management. “It all starts with precision at the very beginning to protect your profit margins for cost optimization,” she said. “Real-time costs and financial controls, world-class job cost accounting tools deliver on-budget projects and performance indicators to let you know how you’re doing along the way.”

Reliable forecasts and performance insights, self-service reporting, construction-specific dashboards and business intelligence, labour management, paperless onboarding, payroll integration, compliance tracking and transparent product and operations management all play key roles in ensuring contractors can keep their projects profitable, Winkler added.

New modules for estimating and pre-construction modelling have been added to the Construction One suite as well, though the initial focus is targeted toward specific subcontractors and trades at this point. General contractors and civil construction uses are on the agenda moving forward, said Chris Peppler, general manager for building pre-construction.

“What you’re going to see is this suite is going to continue to evolve. We absolutely have a focus beyond vertical construction,” Peppler noted. “There will be more to come as this suite expands, in terms of integrations and solutions. I would say in very short order we will be adding a general contractor estimating solution.” HEG

EARTHWORKS INTEGRATED WITH CM LABS EXCAVATOR SIMULATORS

C

M Labs Simulations has integrated Trimble Earthworks on the company’s excavator simulators.

Trimble Earthworks for excavators works in parallel with CM Labs’ software and runs on a tablet, which the user can connect to the simulator. Using the simulator, visual aids are overlaid onto the existing ground along with cut/fill information, slope data and other customizable reference points to provide the user with a better understanding of the work that needs to be done. Configurable views make it easier to obtain the right perspective for maximum training value. The combination builds skills that transfer directly to the job site and teaches operators of all experience levels how to work more efficiently.

Trimble Earthworks is now available as an add-on with CM Labs’ Excavator Training Pack and will be expanded to other earthmoving modules. The software is compatible with all of CM Labs’ Vortex Simulators, including the desktop Vortex Edge Plus, the motion-enabled Vortex Edge Max and the high-immersion Vortex Advantage.

CANADIAN CONTRACTORS EARN HONOURS AT PROCORE GROUNDBREAK

A

pair of Canadian companies have been recognized for their achievements in construction during the annual Groundbreak event held by Procore.

Bird Design-Build Construction and ETRO Construction were recipients of Procore’s 2021 Groundbreaker Awards, presented in eight categories to businesses and individuals who showed success in key areas of construction through the year.

ETRO Construction received the Excellence in Innovation award thanks to their efforts in expanding their use of technology inhouse. A technology team helped develop the ETRO Milestone Tracker, a system that monitors parts of projects to keep everyone on the team informed and on schedule. Real-time updates in a dashboard help ensure the team has good information and knows where they should focus to save time and money.

Bird was honoured with the General Contractor Project Excellence category for a project constructing a 94,000-square-foot pea and canola plant near Winnipeg. Bird completed the project, from concept to operation, in 18 months, compared to similar projects taking three years to complete.

“Behind every successful project, there are great people. The Groundbreaker Awards celebrate how our customers embody the highest standards of our industry on a daily basis,” said Tooey Courtemanche, Procore founder and CEO. “Congratulations to all of the winners of the Groundbreaker Awards.”

Twenty-four companies and projects were selected as finalists for pushing boundaries and inspiring groundbreaking achievements.

Winners were announced during a virtual awards ceremony at Groundbreak.

TECHNOLOGY

A NEARBY WORKER RECEIVES AN SOS ALERT.

CATERPILLAR

CONNECTED WORKER SYSTEM COMBINES WEARABLES WITH ANALYTICS FOR IMPROVED SAFETY

C

aterpillar is expanding its MineStar Detect portfolio with the addition of Connected Worker, a Guardhat-developed safety and productivity solution for surface mining operations. The Connected Worker system combines smart wearable technology with the power of analytics to deliver an added layer of protection against a variety of safety risks at the site.

Scalable to accommodate both small and large operations, Connected Worker improves safety by alerting all connected workers of hazardous situations in real time, delivering up to a 50 percent reduction in lost-time reportable incidents. The system’s ability to track worker location plus enhanced communications through audio, video and image transmission also

The system’s ability to track worker location plus enhanced communications through audio, video and image transmission also help to increase mine site productivity help to increase productivity. A range of safety, productivity and benchmarking reports, customizable to fit the site’s needs, boosts operational efficiency.

The worker safety system consists of three major components: the wearable hardware; software that captures and reports data; and the Internet of Things (IoT) platform that receives reports from the field and pushes out potential safety risks to workers. Creating a safer working environment, Connected Worker helps to detect and report haz-

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ardous areas, unsafe exposure to environmental elements and communicates alerts to affected workers. The system communicates evacuation orders, fall detections, SOS signals and geofence violations.

Increasing system flexibility, three wearable options are available to communicate with workers. A smart alternative to personal protective equipment, the HC1 Hardhat delivers real-time positions through an embedded global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) chip. With the use of Ultra-Wideband (UWB) at the site, the hardhat wearable increases situational awareness indoors by offering 3D-tracking – longitude, latitude and elevation – helping to quickly locate a worker in an emergency. The hardhat features video and audio call, push-to-talk, and offline geofence and recording capabilities.

The TA1 wearable tag delivers tracking GNSS and Bluetooth tracking outdoors. It provides SOS, evacuation and social distancing alerts and also notifies workers of geofence breaches. Workers can capture images and videos to report hazards, which are automatically shared with the safety control centre (SCC), so teams can quickly develop geofences around the hazard to boost worker safety.

A companion hardware for hybrid deployment, the smartphone app for Android devices offers a solution for managing and monitoring team members in an outdoor environment.

The app allows field managers to communicate with workers, issue SOS alerts and can be used to capture images and video of hazardous areas for reporting.

Connected Worker creates a safety ecosystem at the mine site, where actionable data is captured and stored for analysis.

The SCC allows managers to view worker location and data in near real time to quickly communicate unsafe situations to workers in the field. All data is captured and stored on a local server or in the cloud, depending on the mine’s preferences.

DIGITAL HEALTH IOT PLATFORM AIMS TO IMPROVE SAFETY FOR CONSTRUCTION

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igital health and IoT-enablement platform Zyter will collaborate with Zurich North America, Qualcomm Technologies, Everguard.ai and Rudolph Libbe Group to advance the use of AIbased Internet of Things technology to enhance construction safety. The goal is to help prevent job site incidents and accidents that can result in serious injuries and costly property damage.

Through the collaboration, the five companies are hoping to provide construction managers with a 360-degree view of construction sites and real-time alerts regarding workers’ adherence to safety regulations.

Zyter’s SmartSpaces platform, analytics, and front-end dashboard is being integrated with Everguard’s Sentri360 AI platform, made possible through the Qualcomm Smart Cities Accelerator Program and IoT Services Suite. RLG, a provider of construction and facility services, will beta test the collaborative solution at one of its jobsites, while RLG’s insurance provider, Zurich North America, will monitor the impact and evaluate the solution for use with other construction companies.

“This collaboration takes best practices for construction site management and worker safety to a new level,” said Sanjay Govil, founder and CEO of Zyter, Inc. “Together we are making worker safety more manageable for the construction industry by delivering improved visibility across an entire worksite.”

The Qualcomm IoT Services Suite delivers comprehensive, end-to-end, IoT as a Service (IoTaaS) solutions, enabling the digital transformation of smart cities, connected spaces, and experiences globally.

Smart solutions and technologies are at the forefront of driving the next generation of smart spaces and construction sites.

Zyter’s SmartSpaces platform is used to break down silos of information by integrating and consolidating data from IoT devices and applications in a seamless interface. Zyter is also providing advanced analytics.

Everguard’s Sentri360 platform ties together industrial sensor technologies using sensor fusion, edge compute and AI algorithms, enabling them to learn dynamically “on the job.” This has the potential to lower incidents, injuries and corresponding costs.

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SNOW REMOVAL

Snow removal made easy with wheel loaders CONSIDER WORKING THROUGH WINTER BY CLEARING SNOW WITH WHEEL LOADERS

BY RYAN JOHNSON

SNOW REMOVAL

I

f your construction company owns a wheel loader and wants to extend its use year-round, consider clearing snow. Winter can provide an opportunity to operate your wheel loader during your off-season and generate additional revenue.

There are several factors to consider when deciding to use your wheel loader for snow removal. Keep these factors in mind as you decide whether you’ll operate your wheel loader and make the most of winter.

WHAT’S YOUR STRATEGY?

It is smart to start with the basics when it comes to snow removal.

• Do you have a construction business that can handle winter-weather work?

• Will you start a dedicated snow removal division?

• Will your construction season employees work during winter?

• Are your employees trained to clear snow?

• Is your wheel loader configured for work at night?

“Recognizing your priorities for your wheel loaders and employees will help you move forward,” says Aaron Kleingartner, product and dealer marketing manager at Doosan Infracore North America. “It is wise to consider the following factors to decide what wheel loader configuration will work for your company.”

ATTACHMENT OPTIONS

Wheel loaders are ideally suited for snow removal. They have more than enough power to clear snow by pushing or lifting it with a bucket. Here are some attachment-related questions to consider: • Have you thought about how you will move the snow?

• Will you need to load the snow into trucks for off-site removal?

• Does your customer use a snow melter and is your wheel loader capable of dumping snow into it?

This is where attachments come in. There are a variety of considerations when deciding which attachments to pair with your wheel loader for snow removal.

Buckets

If you plan to use a bucket, make sure it’s right-sized for snow removal. Most standard buckets that come with most wheel loaders are not designed for this type of work. They generally don’t have a large enough capacity and may not be wide enough. It’s best to purchase a snow removal bucket. Choose a light-material bucket that is wider than a standard bucket. This will speed up the job and improve your productivity.

Your attachment choice also depends on the environment you will be working in. Having a large, wide bucket is great for moving or loading large amounts of snow. But it can be harder to maneuver.

Keep an eye on hydraulic hoses, wear points and articulation joints for any accumulated snow and ice.

Aaron Kleingartner Product and Dealer Marketing Manager, Doosan Infracore North America

Snow pushers

Before the first snowfall, evaluate the area where you will be clearing and plan accordingly. If you are fortunate to have a wide-open parking lot, then a snow pusher attachment is a good choice. You can quickly push snow off parking lots at shopping malls, big box stores and grocery stores. Be aware that these businesses may require their parking lots to be cleared early and multiple times, depending on the snow event.

If you have a hydraulic quick coupler on your wheel loader, a snow pusher can offer the versatility to use your machine in different steps of snow removal.

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Blades

If you are working in a set development or clearing roadways, then an angle blade can be more appropriate. Your operators have more precise control where they place the snow with an angle blade. Contact your local heavy equipment dealer and inquire about what angle blades are approved for use with your wheel loaders. A V-blade can give you versatility – maneuvering it like a bucket or using it to push and move the snow.

HAVING A LARGE, WIDE BUCKET IS GREAT FOR MOVING OR LOADING LARGE AMOUNTS OF SNOW, BUT IT CAN BE HARDER TO MANEUVER.

Snowblowers

Snowblowers are another option for efficiently clearing snow with a wheel loader. It can be attached to the front of your wheel loader to throw snow off roadways and parking lots. Most snowblower attachments are powered by a separate engine. Be sure to properly store and maintain a snowblower attachment before you use it the first time for snow removal.

MAINTENANCE TIPS

Winter weather can take its toll on heavy construction equipment. It is important to maintain your regular maintenance and put in some extra care during your daily machine walkarounds.

“Extreme cold can impact equipment in different ways than you’re typically used to in temperate seasons,” Kleingartner says. “Keep an eye on hydraulic hoses, wear points and articulation joints for any accumulated snow and ice.”

Another key to keeping your machine functioning smoothly in the cold is staying on top of the fluids.

“Any time your wheel loader is idle, whether that be overnight or for a week, keep fluids topped off,” Kleingartner says.

“That includes diesel fuel and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). If you encounter a longer snow event or you have to work through the night, you will be thankful for keeping those fluids top of mind.”

Machine staging

You may be required to stage a wheel loader at your customer’s place of business – for example, placing it at a parking lot where it’s ready to go after a snow event.

“If possible, store your equipment in a location where it is protected from the winter elements,” Kleingartner says. “In an ideal situation, store the wheel loader in a climate-controlled, easily accessible facility. Unfortunately, that is often not an available option. How to balance accessibility and machine protection is a decision each operator will have to make.”

Unlike construction work, snow removal can be unpredictable, so easy access to your wheel loader is important. You might have to clear snow at midnight, noon or both. Storing your wheel loader near where you will be moving snow keeps operations efficient. Many facilities even keep the wheel loader stationed on-site during the snow season.

“If you store your wheel loader at a climate-controlled location where you can plug in an engine block heater, your machine will be ready to go when you are,” Kleingartner says. “If you keep your wheel loader in a location where you don’t have access to consistent power, consider adding a diesel-powered coolant heater. It will heat the coolant in the engine and help maintain the engine for easier starts in colder climates.”

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SNOW REMOVAL If you can’t store your wheel loader inside, be extra diligent to ensure there isn’t snow and ice in areas of the machine that can impact its functionality. It’s an additional step in your workflow to check and remove those winter obstacles, but it will help keep your machine in working order.

TIMING CONSIDERATIONS

Consider how the timing of snow clearing will affect your work. For example, hospitals have visitors, staff and patients coming and going at all hours. Will you have to work around their vehicles? Other public places, like shopping malls and big box stores, have more defined hours.

You’ll likely need to be there early in the morning and have the lot cleared for business when customers arrive.

Many snow removal companies work at night to clear roads and parking lots. If you’re frequently working at night, consider installing additional lighting on your wheel loader. You can purchase extra work lights to give your operators better visibility and make yourself more visible to other machines and vehicles. A rotating beacon or flasher is a wise investment to increase operator safety.

Check local requirements to ensure your wheel loader is properly equipped for clearing snow.

Be sure to give your operators breaks to avoid burnout during long snow events. If they don’t have an opportunity to leave the site, consider providing them with drinks and snacks to keep them hydrated and alert.

There’s a lot to consider when you decide whether or not to perform snow removal. Make sure you and your operators are up to the challenge, as well as get your fleet ready for additional work when it may otherwise be stored during winter.

RYAN JOHNSON is manager, strategic

IF YOU’RE FREQUENTLY WORKING AT NIGHT, CONSIDER INSTALLING ADDITIONAL LIGHTING ON YOUR WHEEL LOADER.

communications, at Two Rivers Marketing.

CAN AN EXCAVATOR CLEAR SNOW? Believe it or not, some construction companies use crawler excavators for snow removal. In recent years, when cities are slammed with major snowstorms, it’s all hands on deck, and that means excavators, too. Although maybe not the most efficient use for an excavator, they can be useful at scooping snow and placing it or loading it into a snow-melter. If you’re using a crawler excavator, remember the steel tracks may damage established surfaces like concrete or asphalt parking lots during repeated use. Consider adding rubber track pads to your crawler excavator’s steel tracks to help minimize ground disturbance.

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ADVERTISER INDEX Ahern Canada.................................................................... 39 BKT Tires Canada Inc.....................................................33 Blaw-Knox.............................................................................57 Bobcat Company.............................................................23 Brandt Tractor Ltd.............................................................11 Buffalo Turbine................................................................. 69 Canadian Concrete Expo........................................... 79 CASE Construction Equipment............................ 29 Doosan Infracore North America............................ 5 Dynaset.................................................................................. 63 Easi-Pour...............................................................................64 Eberspächer Climate Control Systems Canada Inc............................................................................ 46

VOLVO ELECTRIC LINEUP GETS BIG EXPANSION

FLO Components............................................................. 28 The Gear Centre.................................................................75 GOMACO Corporation.................................................80 Industrial Magnetics.....................................................64 JCB............................................................................................. 14 John Deere Construction & Forestry............... 2–3 Liebherr-Canada Ltd.......................................................27 Mitsubishi HC Capital Canada.................................. 9 Morooka USA..................................................................... 43 National Heavy Equipment Show....................... 77 SMS Equipment................................................................75 Trail King Industries, Inc............................................. 47 Trimble.....................................................................................15 Volvo Trucks...........................................................................4 Western Star Trucks..........................................Outsert

WESTERN STAR LAUNCHES THE LIGHTER, MORE COMPACT 47X VOCATIONAL TRUCK

Wirtgen America...............................................................17 World of Asphalt.............................................................. 65

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