CRUSHING PERFORMANCE

WARMAN MC PUMPS

KEEPING THE SLURRY FLOWING

Weir’s Warman MC pump is designed to easily manage large size particles in dense abrasive slurries. The manufacturer says it offers the right combination of ruggedness, durability, hydraulics and materials. Weir claims that the Warman MC is the best choice of pumps for applications ranging from the most difficult mill discharge to water flushed crushers.

Explaining the key features and benefits of the Warman MC pumps range, Shvetank Saxena says: “This is a line of large diameter, low speed, high efficiency impellers, made out of the latest wear resistant materials. The Warman pumps are primarily used in applications such as mill discharge and processes like slurry transportation.”

He adds that the Warman MC pumps come with interchangeable elastomer or metal liners, or unlined metal.

They also have a simple ‘full face’ side liner adjustment and a self-centring stuffing box design along with fast ‘one-piece’ wet end changeout on larger sizes.

largest sand-manufacturing company in the world. Oman has issued several new mining licences in the last 12 months, which are in various stages of action. Meanwhile, Jordan is a among the best-known global source of Phosphate. So, this is where the economy is moving towards.

“In terms of revenue, Besides UAE our main markets are Oman, Jordan and KSA. We’re looking to bolster our presence in the region. For example, we will have our own presence in Oman next year,. This will

With well-known products such as Warman pumps and Trio jaw and cone crushers, Weir Minerals has some of the most sought after tools for the mining and quarrying sector, globally and locally. bring us closer to our customers & support are agent. We are also looking to ramp up operations in Saudi Arabia and Jordan, commensurate with the many new and existing mining and quarrying projects in those countries.”

While all economic activity is facing the brunt of the Covid-19 onslaught, Saxena is trying to make the best of the situation for Weir Minerals. “I believe opportunity lies in adversity. Of course, we don’t want the Covid-19 situation, but it’s enabled us to realise what’s best in us. We’ve been very close to our customers during these tough times, and - it might sound a bit paradoxical given the current situation - this has been one of the biggest times we’ve seen for minerals in the Middle East. We were able to deliver on our commitments to customers despite the constraints. Covid-19 taught us the importance of being really close to customers with both online and on-ground support and expertise.

“We are sometimes told that Weir Minerals’ products and services are on the costly side, but it’s now that customers have understood they also receive premium quality for the price they pay whether it’s the quality of our products or customer support even in these tough times. We were fully operational during these Covid times, but for only 14 days in April. Apart from that we have been fully operational with all our services.”

Weir Minerals is a unique company, he explains, present from pit to finished product, right from the time when aggregate or ore is blasted to when the product is extracted from the system – the entire cycle of the mining circuit.

“We have our jaw crushers for primary crushing, then cone crushers for secondary crushing and impact crushers for tertiary crushing. Then we have both dry and wet screens. And when you move on to slurry movement, we have our slurry pumps

TRIO CT SERIES

CRUSHING JAWS

The Trio CT series jaw crushers are available in a range of sizes suitable for mobile or stationary jaw crushing applications. They are manufactured with a higher mass, which improves their mechanical capabilities and reliability in tough applications.

“The Trio CT jaw crushers have a robust design to deliver improved life-cycle of mechanical and hydraulic parts and an optimised toggle with the provision to fit a hydraulic toggle relief system as required,” says Shvetank Saxena. “A steep designed toggle seat for the efficient nip angles and high production rates and a fixed jaw die configuration in a wraparound design for frame protection are other important features.”

He adds that the Trio CT is also engineered to deliver improved life-cycles of mechanical and hydraulic parts and have hydraulically adjusted wedges to facilitate quick and easy adjustments to the closed side settings. And of course, they are supported by the Weir Minerals global service network.

“The Trio CT series offers a more aggressive bite and reliable operation, with life-cycle improvements of its mechanical and hydraulic parts. These jaw crushers enable efficient crushing at high production rates. They also feature a fixed jaw die configuration in a wrap-around design to protect each crusher’s frame. In addition, hydraulically adjusted wedges can be incorporated to facilitate quick and easy adjustments to the closed

side settings,” Saxena adds.

Some of the typical applications of the Trio CT series are primary crushing of mined ore and aggregate material, and recycle crushing of asphalt and concrete products. Liner options on the crusher include standard corrugated course, corrugated course with curved belly and slab breaker

The Trio CT also has extra heavyduty flat jaw dies and manganese liners made by Weir ESCO, another Weir group company.

“Engineered to perform in the toughest of environments, the Trio CT series jaw crusher features large, spherical, self-aligning roller bearings in the pitman to protect the machine from unforeseen stress. These rugged features, combined with both front and rear frames cast from high strength, low carbon alloy steel, make the machines last in the processes they are designed for, such as crushing and grinding in both the mining and aggregates segments,” Saxena says.

TRIO TC SERIES CONE CRUSHERS

HEAVY- DUTY AND MULTI-PURPOSE

As Weir Mineral’s offering in the cone crusher segment, the Trio TC series cone crushers deliver a proven approach to processing primary, crushed ores and quarry rock products.

“These crushers are designed to be reliable, and simple to operate and maintain, while incurring low operational costs. The Trio TC cone crushers’ design is universally accepted as the global standard for heavy-duty, reliable secondary and tertiary crushing,” says Shvetank Saxena.

Among the key features and benefits of the Trio TC cone crushers are their design, which enables them to deliver high crushing force. There is also increased horsepower on tap, which leads to moderate increases in crushing speed. The Trio TC cone crushers also include modern hydraulic features that allow users to safely and easily adjust each crushers’ settings.

Tramp material is dealt with safely through a fully automated tramp-release and setting recovery system. The tramp release hydraulics can also be used to safely clear the crushing chamber should a sudden disruption in plant power cause a shut-down of the cone crusher. In addition, Trio TC series cone crushers can be operated remotely and can be fully integrated into the plant’s control system if required.

Among the features the Trio TC series cone crushers come with are a rotating bowl assembly, hydraulic setting adjustment via ring gear and hydraulic tramp release. The list of features and advantages is a long one and includes hydraulic clearing, hydraulic thread locking during crushing, low energy consumption and low wear rates.

“The Trio TC series cone crushers are manufactured using high strength alloys and are equipped with numerous safety features to ensure extended operating time through safe operation. Like all our other products, Middle East customers can find full support for the Trio crushers from our Weir Minerals global service network,” Saxena adds.

Among the applications the Trio TC series cone crushers are designed for are secondary, tertiary or quaternary stage crushing circuits, downsizing of ore products prior to grinding operations, pebble crushing, crushing of glass, coral, basalt and granite as well as limestone quarry materials.

and hoses, washing systems and talings management as well.we design , supply & commission mill circuit process also,” Saxena says.

“This is what we do – design and build the entire process. We work extensively with all the major project houses. We support them with our ideas from our side of the business. Generally, if someone takes a buying decision today, it means we have been with them almost 12-16 months prior to that, studying their project and suggesting the best solutions.”

Detailing the customer engagement, he says Weir Minerals starts with the consultancy process as an integrated solutions provider for end-to-end solutions. Then come specific products, and Saxena elaborates: “I’ll start with Warman slurry pumps; it’s our flagship, It’s a gold standard in mining applications, and we’re proud to say we command 60-70% market share and are able to support our customers with fantastic after-market services. We also have our Trio crusher range, which is increasing its footprint every year and includes our best-in-class jaw and cone crushers.”

However, Weir Minerals is not only about selling top-notch products; it lays equal emphasis on the aftermarket aspects of its operations.

“Selling machines is only the first part; then comes aftermarket. When you buy genuine spares for slurry pumps or cone

Shvetank Saxena, regional manager, Middle East, at Weir Minerals, is overseeing a successful operation that has met the challenges of Covid-19 and moved into a new premises in Dubai. crushers, you get so much more than just a volute liner, impeller, side liner and jaw plate. You’re making an investment in a product that will receive expert lifetime support, achieve higher pump performance, last longer and reduce the risk profile of your process.

“These are just some of the ways we differentiate our products from the competition and stand out in the market. In addition, we keep stock for our customers, we help them design their circuits, and

we act as partners in their operations, not merely a seller of tools,” Saxena says.

Sandwashing is another area where Weir Minerals is very successful. It has recently commissioned complete sandwashing plants in the UAE and Kuwait.

“Our wash plants come as complete assemblies, and we give the customer an option of buying with thickener or without thickener depending on the water management system they have on site. These packaged wash systems work very well in conjunction with our crushing plants,” Saxena explains.

“Our main interaction is not just to sell; our idea is to be with the customer’s entire lifecycle and services are a part of it. One of the reasons we are moving to our DIP premises is because we want to grow the services part of our business further.”

The Middle East is a water-scarce region and Wier Minerals’ washing system take that into account. “Typical washing system have high water usability, with the traditional pond systems only enabling a maximum of 70%-75% of the water to be recycled with careful management. With our system and thickeners, more than 80% of the water can be recycled and re-used in the process. Customer realise that if they invest in our products, with their suitability, long reliability, minimum maintenance and low OPEX then it’s a worthwhile investment as it increases their production and returns.”

29 RAW POWER EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

30_NEW RELEASES

The latest releases from the world of construction machinery.

34_MIGHTY MIDGETS

As market leader Bobcat updates its skid-steer loaders in the Middle East, the run of the ubiquitous runabout continues unabated on the region’s job-sites.

32 TOP 10: SKID-STEER BEST PRACTICES Make skid-steer operations safer and easier with some basic best practices.

40_ LIEBHERR TRAIN

HYVA EXPANDS EDGE LINE TRUCK-MOUNTED CRANES WITH 60TM FAMILY

WHY GET IT? COMPACT, LIGHT AND EASILY MOUNTABLE, WITH CLAIMED BEST LIFTING CAPACITY IN THE SEGMENT

Truck mounted crane maker Hyva has expanded its EDGE Line with a 60tm family of heavy cranes, which now brings its range to span from 1-165tm. The Dutch manufacturer said the new family of cranes comprises four models, each with two jib options – the J1206 Light Jib for lifting horizontally, and the J2006 Heavy Jib for lifting vertically

“These heavy cranes are the most compact and light and have the best lifting capacity currently available in this segment of the market. The rewards are higher payloads and faster operation,” said Hyva.

The four models are the HC601e with a Standard Lifting Control System; the HC661e with a Proportional Lifting Control System with lifting capacity 10% greater than HC601e; the VR60MNG marine crane with sSurface treatment for marine applications; and the VR62MNG marine crane, also with surface treatment for marine applications and with an added lifting control system.

The range comes with features such as Auto Levelling System, which automatically keeps the truck frame in a horizontal position, enabling best crane performance; and the Operator Auto Detection, which automatically activates the operator’s closest stabiliser, avoiding the need for operator contact.

A Front Stabiliser control allows loading in the front area, avoiding stress and overload of the truck frame, while a Compact Installation Kit guides the hoses through a different route, allowing a more compact installation of the crane on the truck.

Standard features on the range include double linkage, negative angle, up to eight extensions, endless slewing, multifunction radio remote control and auxiliary manual control valve on the column side.

SPECIFICATIONS

HYVA 60TM FAMILY

Number of models: 4 Jib options: 2 Jib extensions: Up to 8 Operating weight: 60 tonne-metre

NEW ACCIONA PLATFORM FOR MONITORING EARTHMOVING OPERATIONS

WHY GET IT? COMPATIBLE WITH ANY MANUFACTURER, IMPROVES PRODUCTIVITY

Acciona has developed a digital earthmoving platform for systematic monitoring and control of earthmoving machinery, optimising the processes and improving productivity of the projects carried out by the company.

The new tool is compatible with any manufacturer and can be implemented on projects carried out with Acciona’s own machinery or on projects that use subcontracted machinery.

Acciona said the first step in operating this digital platform, which was developed through its Construction Technology Centre, is to compile data from monitoring all of the machinery, which is possible thanks to a GPS system that can be installed simply and non-invasively on each piece of machinery.

The operator of each machine has the option to enter different operational data using an app and can also record other parameters (consumption, etc.) by installing an additional device, as well as directly extracting data from the machine itself via the manufacturer’s API.

The next step is to process the data collected. Different events can then be defined using a variety of algorithms, such as the start or end of loading, allowing activities to be identified and performance data to be calculated. Lastly, the production, time, distance, volume and performance data that has been processed can be analysed and displayed via a web interface.

CATERPILLAR INTRODUCES NEW D9 DOZER

WHY GET IT? 3% LOWER COSTS PER UNIT OF MATERIAL MOVED, 5% LOWER FUEL CONSUMPTION AND 4% LOWER MAINTENANCE COSTS

Caterpillar has introduced its new D9 bulldozer, which replaces the Cat D9T model and offers customisable configurations to meet application needs around the world.

The equipment giant said the new dozer with a 50t operating weight is built on a “legacy of longevity and proven reliability in the field” and lowers overall costs per unit of material moved by up to 3%. A new torque converter with stator clutch reduces fuel consumption by as much as 5%, and the new dozer has lower maintenance and repair costs by as much as 4%.

The new dozer is powered by Cat’s C18 engine developing 487hp, with a range of exhaust aftertreatment solutions available to meet Tier 4/ Stage V, Tier 2 and Tier 3 emission norms. The D9 also features differential steering for a tight turning radius and the ability to maintain ground speed while turning. The suspended undercarriage delivers more track contact with the ground for less slippage and greater productivity.

The D9 can be equipped with a wide range of blades and attachments for a variety of applications, including production dozing, site maintenance, fleet support and ripping. A semi-universal blade offers a 13.6m3 capacity while a universal one provides 16.6m3

According to Cat, the D9 Dozer delivers low owning and operating costs while maintaining high productivity in heavy construction, quarry and aggregates, landfill, bulk materials handling and forestry applications.

A new ground-level service centre provides easy access to the engine shutdown switch, access/egress lighting and optional powered ladder operation. Standard rear-view mirrors give the operator clear lines of sight to front and rear working areas. An optional four-camera system offers a 360-degree view around the machine and ripper for further safety. Other safety features include adding bottom guard retention pins and eliminating lift cylinder grease points.

The cab is a new design with advanced ergonomics, featuring intuitive controls that are easy to access and operate, says Cat.

SPECIFICATIONS

CAT D9 DOZER

Engine and power: Cat C18, 487hp Operating weight: 50t Blade capacity (semi-universal): 13.6m3

Blade capacity (universal): 16.6m3

MONITOR YOUR ASSETS & OPERATIONS 24/7 BEST CERTIFIED SOLUTIONS;

• FUEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM. • VIDEO SURVEILLANCE. • FLEET MANAGEMENT SYSTEM. • PARKING & ALARM SENSOR. • TANKS GAUGES. • FUEL LEVEL SENSOR. • GPS TRACKING SYSTEM. • TYRE PRESSURE SENSOR.

02

01

DO NOT SPIN TYRES WHEN DIGGING Many operators think spinning the tyres when digging into a pile of soil or dirt improves the digging performance of the loader. This is a mistaken belief. All that happens when the wheels are spun is unnecessary and expensive wear on the tyres. So desist from spinning the wheels for longer tyre life.

DON’T COUNTER-ROTATE When turning your skid-steer loader, make your turns without counter-rotating. This will minimise wear on the undercarriage, which is usually the most expensive part of your skid steer when it comes to maintenance and repair costs.

OWNING AND OPERATING SKID-STEER LOADERS CAN BE MADE SAFER AND EASIER BY OBSERVING SOME KEY BEST PRACTICES TOP TEN: BEST PRACTICES FOR SKID-STEER LOADERS

MIND THE SLOPE When on a slope, keep the heaviest end of the machine uphill. Also try to avoid making 90-degree turns. While operator practices like these may be hard to implement initially, they will be worth the savings in wear and tear on your equipment.

03

MINIMUM GROUND SPEED Running your skid-steer loader too fast will accelerate its rate of normal wear and tear and will be more costly over time. At any rate only very little time is gained by moving fast in a congested, uneven and relatively small space that most job-sites are, and then having to inevitable slow down to turn. Use the minimum ground speed you need to get the job done and your skid-steer will keep doing it longer.

04

05 06

DAILY SAFETY CHECK Take a few minutes to perform a daily walk-around, checking the front end, the tyres, the engine, fluid levels, and safety controls. It only takes a few minutes and gives you the information you need to prevent major problems before they start. This practice will also help to minimise downtime.

COUNTERWEIGHTS Counterweights may be needed while using a skid-steer loader in some applications but not all operations will require them. To prevent excessive wear to some of the key components of your skid- steer, take off the counterweights when they are not needed. Using counterweights when uncalled for will shorten the life span of key components.

KEEP IT CLEAN Thoroughly clean the skid-steer loader and check it for damage every time it returns from a job-site. Don’t allow mud and other debris to build up. Not only can this damage some parts of the machine, such as the undercarriage, but it can also prevent you from spotting potential problems like leaks.

09

CHECK AND CHANGE GEAR OIL Check and change the gear oil in the final drive according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Failure to do so can cause gear oil leaks to go unattended and eventually result in severe damage to the planetary side of the final drive.

07

08

RIGHT FILTERS AND LUBRICANTS There will always be a temptation to use cheaper, off-brand filters and lubricants, but do not give into this if you value uptime and the life of your equipment. While you may make some short-term savings when choosing lower priced non-branded components, they may cause serious damage if the quality is below requirements. Stick to manufacturerrecommended ones.

10

MAINTENANCE RECORDS Keep records on all maintenance and repairs. This can help you notice patterns in repairs or unusual wear, indicating what might be responsible for repeat machine failures. A meticulous maintenance record will also help fetch a better price when it comes to disposing off your machine.

MIGHTY MIDGETS

THE RUN OF THE UBIQUITOUS RUNABOUT CONTINUES UNABATED ON THE REGION’S JOB-SITES, AS BRANDS SUCH AS BOBCAT PUSH IN REVAMPED MACHINES AND NEW TECHNOLOGIES

The skid-steer loader has a special place in the Middle East’s construction sector. Over the many highs and lows in the sector, which have had profound impacts on the region’s equipment market, what has stayed on despite the ebbs and flows is the popularity of the skidsteer loader (SSL) in the region.

And when it comes to the SSL, it immediately brings to mind one name – Bobcat – the machine’s pioneer. With an extensive range, Bobcat has led the segment for many years now, thanks in no small measure to the S450, the region’s most popular SSL. It is the machine underpinning Bobcat’s dominance of the segment - a dominance that has made Bobcat the generic name for the SSL in the region.

This dominance did not come in a day, says Gaby Rhayem, regional director, Doosan Bobcat Middle East and Africa: “Firstly, the SSL was introduced by Bobcat, so we have the advantage of being the first with the machine. Then we built up a reputation on the reliability and quality of our machines, so much so that our dealers often say the aftermarket business on our SSLs is very low as the machines seldom require more than oil and filter changes.

“This also gives Bobcat SSLs an excellent second life. At auctions, even a decade-old unit can command a price of around 50% or more of its original value.”

Bobcat recently launched the R series SSLs for Europe with Stage V engines. For the Middle East it has the new M Series, which is basically the new R series machines but with lower tier engines for this market. The update also added some additional, features and specifications on the machines.

If Bobcat is the king of skid-steers in the Middle East then the S450 is its crown jewel. It is the single most popular skidsteer model in the region, which Bobcat has now made even better.

BOBCAT PRESSURE WASHER

RESPONDING TO THE TIMES

Bobcat has launched new pressure washer attachments for its family of loaders, designed to spray high pressure water on city streets, roads or other surfaces as required.

The compact equipment specialist says some of the applications where the new attachments can be used include: roadwork and construction; disinfecting to protect against Covid-19 or any other kind of sanitisation; cleaning furniture in parks and urban streets; maintaining railways, bridges and tunnels; cleaning animal or poultry sheds; and cleaning various types of machinery.

Bobcat has introduced three different pressure washer attachment models - the 250S, 250M and 250L - to match different Bobcat loaders and to meet specific requirements of various applications. The new attachments are quick and easy to connect to Bobcat loaders with a plugand-play design, and start work immediately. Bobcat says it is the first in the world to offer this kind of attachment for skid-steer, compact tracked and all-wheel steer loaders, which joins its family of over 100 different attachments.

The new pressure washer attachments have compact dimensions for efficiency and simplicity in transportation, while the front sprayer is adjustable to easily adapt to all types of work.

Daniele Paciotti, product line manager, Attachments, for Bobcat in Europe, Middle East and Africa, says: “Bobcat is now offering a pressure washer attachment that ensures cleaning streets, signs and street furniture has never been so easy and effective. Wherever larger dedicated machines cannot gain access or where the job must be done mechanically – the new pressure washer attachment mounted on a Bobcat loader is the best way to clean surfaces.”

“In the S450, for example - the biggest seller for both Bobcat and the overall Middle East SSL segment - we have an airconditioned cab, which few competitors offer on their small machines. The M Series S450 here has a Kubota engine with lower stage emissions. With the update, a key difference now is in the fuel injection, delivering much higher power at lower RPMs, making operators feel they are using a more powerful machine,” Rhayem explains.

“This is due to improvements to the injection pump and the overall machine hydraulics, which are now in more harmony to extract higher power at lower engine speeds. The total power output of the Kubota engine is still the same, but the difference now is in the way power is delivered. The new injection and fuelling system ensure a much flatter, consistent power curve available from low down in the RPM range. From the hydraulics point of view, the response is now much faster due to the higher power available at low RPMs.”

Explaining the extensive Bobcat SSL range in the region, Rhayem adds: “Our smallest machines here are the S70 and S100, with only canopies and no cabs. Then we come to the very popular, construction-grade S450, offered with both canopy and cab-with-AC. You want to prepare the field, load sand, soil or other materials, transport a load on the job-site - the S450 fits the job. For tasks requiring more hydraulic power, there are the S550 and S630.

“The S450 and the S630 are our star products here. The S630 is the attachment king and gets you into the very high-flow hydraulics for big attachments. We usually sell it with tools like

CASE SR130

CASE FOR THE COURSE

The SR130B is among the staples of Case Construction Equipment’s skid-steer loader line-up in the region. Along with the SR150B, it is the brand’s most popular model.

“The SR130B is a generalpurpose machine that scores on versatility,” Zane Barnard points out. “With the SR130, users get a machine that can perform various tasks on the job-site and give a

“These are among the most versatile as they can carry multi-purpose buckets and general attachments like sweepers”

Case Construction Equipment has several popular skid-steers in the region, such as the SR130B and SR150B at the lower end, and the SR200B at the upper end. Together, they are formidable tool carriers for all jobs. the wheel saw, big sweepers, planers, or others that need powerful hydraulics. And then we have the range toppers with the S780 and S880 for higher capabilities.

“When it comes to applications, we are again the leader, offering 160 attachments. Based on the philosophy that our SSL is a tool carrier, we don’t just sell a machine with a bucket - instead we offer complete solutions with our tools. We first try to understand customers’ requirements and then offer a full package with wheel saws or graders, planers, trenchers, asphalt layers, sand cleaners or sweepers, etc. With the competition, customers usually get most attachments from after-market companies.”

Although Covid-19 has led to difficult conditions and the SSL market has fallen sharply along with all other equipment classes, Bobcat has still managed to increase its market share in this time, Rhayem reveals. And this is where the contribution of its dealers needs to be mentioned, as exemplified by Kanoo Machinery, the UAE and Bahrain distributor.

Kannan Chandrasekaran, country manager, UAE and Oman, Kanoo Machinery, explains: “We started our ‘100% Customer Service

great return on investment.” The machine is able to support several attachments, from hammers to dozer blades and broom buckets, as well as loader buckets of various sizes. The SR130B has a operating weight of 2.3t and a rated operating capacity of 590kg with a tipping load of 1.1t. The lift cylinder breakout force is 12.7kN and the bucket breakout force is 18.6kN, making it no slouch in the performance department. Power comes from an engine producing a peak of 49hp at

2,800rpm. Peak torque is 143Nm at an even lower 1,800rpm. A low range travel speed of 12.7km/h is standard, while a high range option offers increased ground velocity.

“This is our bestseller model in the Middle East. It is a common sight at many construction sites in the region,” Barnard says and adds that built in Case’s historical factory in Wichita, USA, the machine comes with all the hallmarks of a Case skid-steer. A convenient cab tilt feature provides access to the hydraulic and transmission components, and easy serviceability is assured by Case’s design of grouping the daily service points together, along with remote mounted filters.

Excellence’ initiative, setting high goals for customer service and satisfaction. For example, we reply to any sales enquiry after thoroughly assessing the application but within 24 hours. Our sales engineers, who are also product consultants, study the requirements first and suggest the right machine for the application.

“We also respond the very same day to any queries received for parts that morning, or the next day if it was received in the afternoon or evening. For service we have 24-7 toll free numbers. Requests received are checked by our divisional service manager himself who immediately dispatches the service teams. Assistance is available whenever needed.”

Over at Case Construction Equipment, the SSL has consistently returned good sales figures. Zane Barnard, product specialist, Case CE, says: “Last year was a good one for our SSLs across all our markets. We showed good growth and saw demand increase across the region. With the updated B-series being introduced this year, our future focus will be on increasing their versatility through widening the attachments range.

“We have a huge customer base, from operator-owners to mega construction companies, which has helped us hold strong in 2020 with some good planning and foresight, despite Covid-19 affecting the segment.”

Discussing both the SSLs and CTLs, Barnard adds. “SSLs are fast-moving units ideally suitable for dirt, concreate and asphalt. They are general tools, which can carry almost any attachment. In the Middle East this would include a general-purpose bucket, sweepers, augers and hydraulic hammers. For CTLs, these tools are larger and heavier, and they offer the capability of carrying more powerful attachments like large rock wheels, planers and large hydraulic hammers. CTLs also offer great machine floatation especially when working on softer surfaces, such as sand.”

Case’s range in the segment has nine SSL and three CTL B-series models. Starting with the radial lift SR130B and going up to the vertical lift SV300B, it covers rated operating capacities from 590kg to 1.36t for the SSLs and 1.22-1.72t for the CTLs.

“All Case SSLs are manufactured in our historic plant in Wichita, USA. Our B–series machines recently saw cabin updates for improved operator comfort and increased productivity. They offer some great new tech and all-new cab layouts and joystick controls to improve safety and reduce operator fatigue.

“In-cab improvements include a closer switch layout with a new instrument cluster position and large buttons for better visibility. There’s also more space for storage with a new console layout and improved lateral space for the operator. Wires are less exposed thanks to

JCB TELESKID

INNOVATION IN FUSION

Here’s an innovative variation on the theme of the skid-steer loader: take a normal tracked variety of the machine and instead of equipping it with the normal loader arm with a bucket or attachment at the end of it, attach a telescopic loader arm that can extend outwards to increase reach – sort of a fusion of a telehandler with a skid-steer or compact tracked loader. This is precisely what JCB has done with its 3TS-8T Teleskid.

“The JCB Teleskid is the world’s first and only skid-steer loader and compact tracked loader with a telescoping boom, allowing it to lift higher, reach further and dig deeper than any skid-steer on the market.

These machines provide access to job-sites and perform tasks that are simply not possible with a conventional skid-steer, like loading a high-sided truck without a ramp or both sides of a flatbed trailer from one side, dump material or stack pallets higher to free up valuable ground space and place loads over fences or obstacles. The possibilities are endless,” says Ahmed Shouman.

“Though the Middle East is not yet a potential target market, the Teleskid is available in three models - 3TS-8T, a compact tracked loader with a rated operating capacity of 1.6t; 3TS8W, a wheeled skid-steer with a rated operating capacity of 1.4t; and the 2TS-7T, which has a rated operating capacity of 951kg.”

In terms of features, the Teleskids are equipped with JCB’s telescopic Powerboom, along with all the attributes of JCB’s proven skid-steer design. A climate-controlled cab is standard and a canopy is and an option, which offer up to 47% more room and 60% better visibility than comparable, large-platform skid-steers. The extending boom raises maximum loadover height to 3.8m with the boom extended, almost 1m more than the standard retracted boom. In addition, the Teleskid’s telescopic boom provides the option of digging or powering attachments at depths of up to 1m below ground level.

“Our unique single arm boom... has 20% more high tensile steel compared with the twin arms most competitors have. This design also enables cab entry through a wide opening side door”

TRACKS OR WHEELS?

LET CAT BE YOUR GUIDE

When it comes to choosing the right piece of compact equipment, there are many options and offering one of the widest choices of skid-steer loaders or compact tracked loaders is Caterpillar. Explaining what to look for when choosing the best machine for a job is Mamoun T Mutair, building construction - product manager at Mohamed Abdulrahman Al Bahar, the Cat dealer in the GCC, excluding Saudi Arabia.

“A wheel-based skid-steer loader or a compact tracked loader are designed for their size, manoeuvrability, and versatility of attachments. Further machine differences to be aware of include radial lift and vertical lift loader arms. The radial design is best suited for strong break-out forces at ground level and work at mid-height. The vertical design is best suited for maximum height loading or pick and place applications,” Mutair says.

“The most critical thought process to be had early on is to clearly define the job at hand. This will drive your attachment selection, and from there can help narrow down the machine selection.”

Mutair points out three basic points for consideration:

What performance is required to run the necessary tools?

What machine size is required to provide the right horsepower and hydraulic power to perform efficiently on the job?

Understand the job-site

Once the job is clearly defined, one must also evaluate the size of the site itself and the underfoot conditions. Skid-steers, the wheel-based machine, are the best choice on hard surfaces and generally have lower owning and operating costs. Long distances to travel? Tyres will get you there faster than a tracked machine. The compact tracked loader, a track-based machine, is the clear choice for traction on soft terrain and slopes. “The Cat steel embedded tracks will give you long, durable wear, and offer lower ground pressure to protect the work surface,” Mutair adds.

Understand the machine

It is always recommended to know your machine before you put it to work. Try to consult your dealer and understand as much as you can about the machine you intend to use. Brochures, live demonstrations and test runs, can be highly useful. “Unlike other manufacturers, the Cat compact tracked loader has a suspended undercarriage. As opposed to a fixed, bolted track frame, the suspended undercarriage allows for a smoother, faster ride, better material retention, and more surface contact with the ground. The secret lies in the Cat torsion axles, consisting of four independent axles allowing the machine chassis and operator to be isolated from the track frame. The steel bar and rubber cords inside these axles dampen vibrations, creating less wear and tear, better operator comfort and extended track life.” better routing and fuel lines are also routed better to the rear door fuel filter.”

The largest selling models in Case’s range are its small and medium frame SSLs – the SR130B, SR150B and SR175B. “These are among the most versatile as they can carry general attachments like sweepers and multi-purpose buckets. They are also great for general digging, levelling and load and carry operations.”

For JCB, SSLs represent a large portion of the overall equipment demand in the region. Ahmed Shouman, general manager, JCB Middle East, says: “In 2019, the SSL was among the largest equipment classes by volume and this year we expect it to be the second largest. This competitive segment is very important for JCB, as demonstrated by our continuing introduction of new products and consistent growth of market share since 2016. Our customers include contractors, rental companies, manufacturing facilities and local municipalities, to name a few.”

JCB’s SSLs offer rated operating capacities of 612kg-2.72t. The company has a similar base machine globally with hydraulics and controls differing by region based on the commonly used attachments, Shouman explains.

“Our bestselling SSL is the 135HD. Apart from superior performance, key reasons for its popularity include safety, a high 270-degrees visibility for the operator and ease of maintenance. At JCB, we are very proud to have designed one of the safest SSLs in the market. Our unique single arm boom on our 135HD and 155HD models has 20% more high tensile steel compared with the twin arms most competitors have. This unique design also enables cab entry for operators through a wide opening side door as compared to entering over slippery attachments or under an unsupported boom, as with competitors.”

JCB reported positive market figures for SSLs in 2019 and in the first quarter this year, but demand fell thereafter, reveals Shouman. “We are seeing demand slowly starting to increase now and are positive this will continue in 2021 and beyond, and SSLs will continue to represent around 20-25% of the regional demand for equipment. JCB will continue to grow its SSL sales by providing more solutions that reduce customers’ cost of operation and increase machine uptime, productivity, operator efficiency and ease of maintenance.”

An oddball inclusion in the SSL options for the Middle East is Ditch Witch. The American brand is well-known globally for its tracked machines without cabs, which offer a standon position for operators. Jamey E. Shaheen, president, Ditch Witch Middle East, says: “We have a wide range of skid-steers at Ditch Witch Middle East. They are more than just machines or tools. We provide customers with one of the

“The SWL2820 model is our best adapted model for the Middle East… It has 25% more loading capacity... at a more competitive price”

top-100 products made in the USA. Our lineup includes the SK1050, SK850, SK800, SK650, SK600, SK500 and SK350 mini skid-steers.

“Our Middle East head office is in Lebanon and we have an experienced, specialised team that’s travelled the GCC to provide on-theground support sites for more than 30 years. Ditch Witch is now widely seen in countries like Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Jordan. All our products are made in the USA and our technology is makes for efficiency, productivity, durability and heavy-duty applications.”

The brand’s advantage is in providing highly compact and powerful stand-on models for specialist jobs, which differentiates it from the competition, Shaheen adds. Ditch Witch also

With high build quality, durability, technically advanced features and well-designed operator cabins, Sunward’s skidsteer loaders are increasng in popularity in the Middle East and enjoy the backing of established distributors, such as CMC in the UAE market. customises its models for the regoin to suit the harsh, sandy, hot and often saline environment, using components such as a low-maintenance Kubota diesel engine in its SK800 for power and performance in all conditions.

Chinese manufacturer Sunward is making rapid inroads into the Middle East market, especially with the support of local powerhouse dealerships, such as CMC in the UAE. Speaking about the brand’s offering in the SSL segment, Bob Xie, managing director, Sunward Middle East, says: “Our models go all the way up to 3.6t, with the most popular being the 750kg capacity SWL2820, 20% more powerful than comparable models in the region.

“Some of our improvements to resist tough environments include extra-large coolant tanks and fans in the engines and hydraulic systems, high-quality filters and resistive paint. These allow our SSLs to be used in the 50°-plus desert heat in the Middle East. Efficient aftersales back-up results in Sunward SSLs being used in this region for over a decade now.”

Sunward also pays special attention to the operator environment. “Our SSLs have wide and comfortable cabs with good vision, easy ingress and egress, and ergonomic placement of all controls and switches. They have FOPS/ ROPS standard cab structures and three-level electric starting protection system. Daily maintenance points are easy to reach and a standard quick coupler makes it fast and easy to switch attachments.”

Sunward’s models in the Middle East comprises the SWL2820, SWL3220 and SWTL4538 with respective loading capacities of 750kg, 1t and 1.5t. The inventory quantity is more than 200 units in the region, Xie says.

“The SWL2820 is our best adapted model for the Middle East, equipped with a pilot joystick and lifted bucket position maintaining function, and high capacity hydraulics. It has 25% more loading capacity than competing popular models, and it offers all its advantages at a more competitive price.

“Sunward SSLs also have great reliability and durability. For example, the SWL2820 models we sold in Saudi Arabia in 2008 are still working today 12 years later, proving their durability. Such a track record also increases the resale value of our machines, so if and when a customer wants to liquidate his assets and cash in, he is more likely to get a good residual value on his used Sunward machine.”

DITCH WITCH STAND-ON SKID-STEER AN ODDBALL IN THE DITCH

Ditch Witch’s SK800 stand-on tracked skid-steer is a useful equipment for the Middle East. Jamey E. Shaheen elaborates: “The conditions we face on job-sites in the region, from harsh environments to difficult terrains, calls for the SK800. Customers here can benefit from this equipment since its features are made especially for better mobility on difficult terrain.

“When your job-sites demand durability and performance, you need the Ditch Witch SK800. This construction grade machine is built for heavy-duty operation on a range of utility, landscaping and underground tasks, giving you maximum power and durability while increasing your ROI. Simply put, the toughest challenges are no match for the versatile SK800.”

The Ditch Witch SK800 has several competitive features. It accepts a broad array of compatible attachments and features 413kgrated operating capacity and 210cm hinge-pin height. The

design is rugged and sturdy, and power is provided by an efficient, low maintenance Kubota diesel engine, explains Shaheen. The ergonomic operator’s station provides standard dual-lever ground drive controls and an innovative high-drive track system features bolt-on sprockets and wide track rollers. The low-maintenance track-tensioning system comes fully equipped with a grease cylinder.

MINING TRUCKS WITH PANTOGRAPHS POWERED BY OVERHEAD CATENARY TO REDUCE DIESEL CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS

LIEBHERR ‘TRAINS’ AT AUSTRIAN MINE Agroundbreaking ceremony that broke fresh ground in the electric operation of heavy equipment took place on September 29 at an iron ore mine in Austria, where mine owner VA Erzberg and Liebherr are taking action on a development contract for Liebherr’s 100t capacity T 236 mining trucks to run on electricity from overhead wires, much like an electric railway locomotive with a pantograph connected to a catenary.The contract, concluded at Bauma last year, was for the development of a Trolley Assist System for the T 236 trucks. Since then the iron ore mine in Eisenerz, Austria, has been testing the diesel-electric truck. The truck was modified to operate with an overhead line connected through a current collector with bars on a 500m-long test track. According to VA Erzberg: “Up to now, the transport of more than 13 million tons of rock per year has required enormous amounts of energy of around 4.5 million litres of diesel per year. It will be three million litres less diesel in the future when the successors to the mechanical diesel trucks currently in use start operating at Erzberg.” This is the way it works: The diesel-electric truck is equipped with a current collector with bars that connect the truck drive system to the overhead power lines on uphill haulage segments to drive with electric power. This innovative technology allows for tracks with small radiuses and even switchbacks. It also allows for a wider use of the haul road width aside from the catenary line in comparison with conventional pantograph solutions. This is important when the conditions are not optimal due to weather. Josef Pappenreiter, technical director, VA Erzberg says: “There are only a few companies in the world that use overhead line technology for their trucks. However, we realised very quickly that the existing technology would not work for us. Our newly developed technology is different from everything previously available on the market in terms of both the overhead line system and the vehicle technology itself. This could only be developed with our cooperative and innovative partner Liebherr Mining.” The new extended track for a fleet of six Liebherr T 236 will be 5km long with the upper section at around 1,055m above sea level. .When connected to the overhead lines in trolley mode, the full power of the trucks’ electric motors can be used while the diesel engine idles, reducing fuel consumption and emissions, saving around 4,200t of CO2 per year. Million litres of diesel to be saved annually by the electric dumpers 3