Equipment Today January 2025

Electric Scissor Lifts on the Rise Helping you optimize ROI on your construction equipment

®

JANUARY 2025

6 WAYS

DATA CAN HELP TO REDUCE EMISSIONS, FOSSIL FUELS & WASTE PAGE 32

2025 GUIDE ATTACHMENT

40+ SPECIALIZED & MULTIPURPOSE SOLUTIONS OFFERING CONTRACTORS MORE VERSATILITY, PRODUCTIVITY & EFFICIENCY

FORCONSTRUCTIONPROS.COM/EQUIPMENT

ENOUGH POWER TO GET THE JOB DONE. ALL OF THEM.

P-TIER

COMPACT TRACK LOADERS

You never know what the work will throw at you. So you need a machine that can catch any of it. Our newest compact machines support over 100 different attachments and have the power to put them to work.

Because it’s not enough to be on the jobsite, you have to run it.

DEERE.COM/COMPACT

Contents

January 2025 | Vol. 61 No. 1

COLUMNS 4

42

44

46

BREAKING GROUND

Contractors work to overcome lingering challenges and embrace new technologies

LUBRICATION NUTS & BOLTS

How reliability-centered maintenance, seasonal product strategy and oil analysis play into the success of your operation

CONSTRUCTION CONNECTIVITY

Inside developments from the Trimble Dimensions 2024 and a look at tomorrow’s equipment tech integrations

DENNIS IN THE DIRT

How Five Star Civil Construction built a legacy through fleet management software, equipment and relationships

48

BRIDGING THE GAP

50

RUNNING THE BUSINESS

Understanding the benefits associations can bring to an industry or an area of expertise

8

COVER STORY

2025 ATTACHMENT GUIDE

40+ SPECIALIZED AND MULTIPURPOSE SOLUTIONS OFFERING CONTRACTORS MORE VERSATILITY, PRODUCTIVITY AND EFFICIENCY

Tips to reduce costs, lower interest expenses, improve efficiency and find additional personnel

PRODUCT ROUNDUPS

SPECIAL SECTION 18

PRE-SHOW COVERAGE

World of Concrete 2025 promises innovative tech and equipment solutions, networking opportunities and education

EARTHMOVING 22

ROADBUILDING

26

COMPACT TRACK LOADERS

28

6

EQUIPMENT INTRODUCTIONS

20

NEW AT WORLD OF CONCRETE 2025

24

ROADBUILDING EQUIPMENT

30

EXCAVATORS

40

LIFT EQUIPMENT

Volumetric concrete mixers create opportunities to lower project costs How creep control can optimize efficiency, avoid delays and reduce downtime

WEB EXCLUSIVES VIDEO NETWORK

EXCAVATORS

Making the wrong bucket choice can affect both machine and project performance – here’s how to skip common mistakes

FLEET MANAGEMENT 32

TELEMATICS

36

LIFT EQUIPMENT

6 ways data can help to reduce emissions, fossil fuel consumption and waste

eqtoday.co/k2p285

DIGGING DEEPER PODCAST eqtoday.co/s7sfkm

PREMIUM CONTENT eqtoday.co/9pd73s

E-NEWSLETTERS

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Published and copyrighted 2025 by IRONMARKETS Equipment Today makes every effort to report manufacturers’ product news accurately, but is not responsible for validity of news claims.

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Equipment Today (USPS 369-290, ISSN 0891-141X) is published is published 10x with issues of January, February, March, April/May, June, July, August, September, October, November/December by IRONMARKETS, 201 N. Main St. Ste 350, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538.

Periodicals postage paid at Fort Atkinson, WI, and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Please send change of address to Equipment Today, 201 N. Main St. Ste. 350, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. Printed in the USA.

Today’s electric scissor lifts bring lower costs, greater efficiency, and less noise and air pollution

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January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

3

BREAKING GROUND

®

Kathy Wells Editor-in-Chief Equipment Today EDITORIAL

kwells@iron.markets

Editor-in-Chief...................................................................... Kathy Wells

New Year,

kwells@iron.markets

Managing Editor......................................................................Gigi Wood gwood@iron.markets

Junior Editor.................................................................... Merina Shriver mshriver@iron.markets

Renewed Focus Contractors work to overcome lingering challenges and embrace technologies to advance the industry

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EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

Audience Development Manager.....................................Angela Franks

PRODUCTION

Senior Production Manager................................................ Cindy Rusch crusch@iron.markets

Art Director...................................................................Kimberly Fleming kfleming@iron.markets

ADVERTISING/SALES

Brand Director.................................................................... Sean Dunphy sdunphy@iron.markets

Brand Manager, OEM & Construction................................Nikki Lawson nlawson@iron.markets

Sales Representative.......................................................... Kris Flitcroft kflitcroft@iron.markets

H

Sales Representative........................................................... Kaylee Kidd kkidd@iron.markets

Sales Representative...................................................Megan Perleberg mperleberg@iron.markets

IRONMARKETS

Chief Executive Officer...........................................................Ron Spink Chief Revenue Officer......................................................Amy Schwandt VP, Finance............................................................................. Greta Teter VP, Audience Development.............................................. Ronda Hughes VP, Operations & IT............................................................. Nick Raether VP, Demand Generation & Education..................................... Jim Bagan Corporate Director of Sales............................................. Jason DeSarle Brand Director, Construction, OEM & IRONPROS........................Sean Dunphy Content Director................................................................Marina Mayer Director, Online & Marketing Services.....................Bethany Chambers Director, Event Content & Programming.......................Jess Lombardo

CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTIONS 201 N. Main St. Ste. 350, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538, Phone: (877) 201-3915 Fax: (847) 291-4816 circ.EquipmentToday@omeda.com IRONMARKETS

appy New Year, readers!

For many of us, with that January flip of the calendar comes a renewed sense of determination.

This time of year, we find ourselves setting our sights on bigger objectives and aiming higher. But creating goals is the easy part. It’s what comes next that’s a bit more difficult: How can we accomplish these goals? What can help us get there?

The contractors we speak with are constantly climbing the uphill battle of doing more with less, so why — and when and how — can you add more to your plate? The quick answer is to hire more workers, but with challenges like the skilled labor shortage still looming, now what are your options?

According to November 2024 analysis of government employment data conducted by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), construction employment rose in 238, or 66%, of 358 metro areas between October 2023 and October 2024.

According to AGC, firms continue to increase pay rates as many companies struggle to find enough qualified workers to hire.

“While roughly two-thirds of metro areas have added construction workers in the past year, contractors would have hired more employees if there were enough qualified applicants,” said Ken Simonson, AGC chief economist. “Contractors are struggling to fill openings despite offering aboveaverage wages.”

As experienced tradespeople move into retirement, the industry is ramping up its efforts to recruit younger generations of workers to fill their shoes. However, for them, the path to construction is not a clear one. According to CONEXPO/CONAGG’s Q4 2024 Economic Outlook for the Construction Industry, “some

AUDIENCE

Equipment Today Editor-in-Chief Kathy Wells, Brand Manager Nikki Lawson and Senior Video Producer Patrick Brown explore the equipment off-site to see the latest innovations at Trimble Dimensions in November 2024.

For emerging trends and equipment technology insights from the annual user conference, turn to page 44. companies are embracing technology to bridge the labor gap. Automated equipment, such as robotic bricklayers and 3D printing technology, can reduce the workload on human crews and help projects stay on track.”

It’s this shift toward tech-driven solutions that is keeping many businesses ahead of the curve. But the move to adopt and integrate technology is a constant commitment.

For contractors who are willing to make the investment, both financially and in terms of time, there are clear benefits to the bottom line.

It’s our mission to help you optimize ROI on your construction equipment, and today’s advanced equipment is paving the way for gains across the board, offering contractors

new opportunities to cut costs and improve efficiency and productivity.

As we continue to deliver on our mission of helping you consider and explore the possibilities of how your equipment investments can keep your company competitive, I welcome your insights. What fleet challenges are you currently facing? How can we help you weigh the pros and cons of your next equipment purchase? How is technology influencing operations?

What innovations or developments have piqued your interest? Email me at kwells@iron.markets.

Take care,

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LIST RENTAL

Sr. Account Manager........................................ Bart Piccirillo, Data Axle 402-836-2768 | bart.piccirillo@data-axle.com

REPRINTS & LICENSING

Brand Manager, OEM & Construction................................Nikki Lawson nlawson@iron.markets

E @EquipmentToday D @EquipmentToday C @equipment-today-magazine-official Q @equipmenttoday Published by IRONMARKETS 201 N. Main Street, Ste 350, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 (800) 538-5544 www.IRON.MARKETS www.ForConstructionPros.com/equipment www.IronPros.com

EQUIPMENT INTRODUCTIONS These pages feature some of the latest equipment available. For more information on these products, scan the QR code shown.

John Deere E-Drive 744 and

824 X-Tier Wheel Loaders

John Deere744 X-Tier and 824 X-Tier Wheel Loaders feature the John Deere Electric Variable Transmission (EVT) E-Drive system. Both models are equipped with a JD9 diesel engine as the primary power source, however, the torque converter and traditional transmission have been replaced by the EVT system. In addition, the E-Drive component provides instant power. Focusing on cab comfort, operators can expect a quiet cab environment attributed to the constant engine speed. Operators can also access seating and an AM/FM radio with Bluetooth capabilities. With the Advanced Vision System and Advanced Object Detection, operators can utilize a range of views on both sides of the loader and visibility beyond conventional mirrors. Also, dynamic reversal projected path lines assist with visualizing the anticipated reversal path for line of sight. The loaders are now equipped with John Deere Pile Slip Assist. Operators can experience proactive differential lock ahead of pile engagement which reduces tire Read More eqtoday.co/c2tqu2qy slip, improves bucket fill and lowers cycle time.

ASV VT-80 Compact Track Loader ASV has introduced the VT-80 midsized compact track loader for construction. Powered by a 74-hp Tier-4 Final Yanmar engine, the 8,955-lb. VT-80 provides power and performance and offers a 2,800lb. rated operating capacity. The VT-80 is part of ASV’s redesigned line of midsized compact track loaders. The machine features ASV’s patented Posi-Track undercarriage with dual-level suspension for traversal over tough terrain. The 7-in. color touch display supports operation, allowing operators to monitor machine specs, service history, schedules and more. Automated features like the returnto-dig and work tool positioner functions are designed for repetitive tasks. Standard hydraulic flow has been increased to 24.7 gpm, while high flow of 34.3 gpm can be utilized for attachments. The cab of the MAX-Series model features 360-degree visibility and a pressurized cab to keep dust and debris out. The machine is designed with a smaller overall machine footprint compared to previous models, allowing work in tight spaces. Combined with the performance and agility Read More of ASV’s Posi-Track rubber track undercarriage, the compact track loader eqtoday.co/85nvvm7m can reach remote jobsites.

Yanmar

TL65RS Compact Track Loader

CASE CL36EV Electric

Compact Wheel Loader The CASE CL36EV electric compact wheel loader enables material transfer and loading or unloading operations in rugged jobsites.

The 3.6-metric ton CASE CL36EV electric compact wheel loader delivers the same power and performance as comparably sized diesel-powered loaders. This versatile machine can be matched with a full range of attachments and features a hinge-pin height of over 10 ft., making it a solution for supply yards, largescale building renovations or projects where indoor operation is required. The new machine Read More complements the CASE portfolio eqtoday.co/0pe38opu of diesel machines.

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EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

Yanmar has launched the TL65RS as part of its new line of compact track loaders. The midsize machine is the smallest in Yanmar’s current lineup of compact track loaders.

The radial-lift TL65RS is a durable, construction-grade machine. A 67-hp Yanmar Tier 4 Final diesel engine and 2,100-lb. rated operating capacity supports performance. Operators can navigate the jobsite with travel speeds up to 7.5 mph. The new compact track loader has a torsion axle suspended undercarriage featuring a pivot link system at the rear axle. The linkage technology utilizes a spring load to reduce oscillation and stabilize the machine, improving material retention and ride. The TL65RS can be optioned with a 26.7-gpm high flow, optimized with large line sizes, hydraulic coolers and direct-drive pumps for more flow and pressure directly to the attachment and reducing power loss. A standard mechanical suspended seat and 7-in. touchscreen display are featured in the cab.

Full, 360-degree visibility enables jobsite awareness and safety, which is bolstered by the inclusion of a removable roof hatch escape. The TL65RS offers Yanmar’s optional SmartAssist Remote telematics.

The service provides features such as error detection and notification to real-time operational status updates and daily work reports. SmartAssist has integrated theft protection that allows the owner or fleet manager to set a range from a specific location and trigger an alert if that range is exceeded. The machine’s durable steel-embedded rubber-tracked undercarriage offers reliability, while heavy-duty bar-tread tracks complement the undercarriage through reduced vibration.

The bar-treaded tracks offer increased traction in extreme conditions like Read More snow, mud and soft soils. The TL65RS features accessible daily checkpoints eqtoday.co/9raqshyt and removable skid plates for cleaning. It also includes three-panel engine access and a swing-out radiator that can be opened without tools.

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EQUIPMENT INTRODUCTIONS These pages feature some of the latest equipment available. For more information on these products, use the QR code shown.

Cat 903 Compact Wheel Loader The Cat 903 compact wheel loader is designed to make work easier with its Cat C1.7 engine, offering 17% more horsepower than the previous model. The increase in power delivers improved performance when pushing, operating on grades, and using drive, steer and lift functions simultaneously. It provides a higher full turn tip load rating of 5,516 lbs. (2552 kg). Designed to provide comfort, the operator’s workstation features legroom, ergonomic pedal positioning, easy entry and exit, and optional speed-sensitive ride control. The multifunction joystick provides fingertip control of the standard third-function hydraulic system.

Minimal engine overhang results in excellent rear and corner visibility, allowing for efficient operation in confined areas.

Providing improved comfort, the seat design includes yellow touch points, making it easier to find the preferred operating position. The 903 can be optionally equipped with a hydraulic skid steer loader (SSL) coupler for faster and more efficient work tool changes. It provides a viewing window that enables the operator to see the fork tips when using available compact wheel loader style forks. The auxiliary hydraulic system delivers higher than previous flow of up to 14.5 gal./min. (54.9 l/min) at 3,336 psi (230 bar) for increased hydraulic power Read More to operate hydraulic work tools like eqtoday.co/lyd8bpo4 power box rakes and grapple buckets.

Western Global

550 Gallon DEFCube The new model, the DEF550 provides a larger capacity option for bulk DEF storage. The DEF550 offers a rugged and durable DEF tank solution that is engineered to withstand the harsh environments in which rental, construction and fuel distribution customers operate. Offering a secure storage option, the DEFCube can be easily maneuvered around the jobsite and features a stackable design to minimize its footprint. The DEFCube is now available in two capacities, 130 gal. and 550 gal. The robust carbon steel Read More outer tank offers protection against the eqtoday.co/jnt6itxg weather and action on the jobsite.

Hyundai HD130 Tracked Dozer This 15-ton-class machine is equipped with a 4-cyl. Tier 4 Perkins 1204J engine. The HD130 can be ordered as either a low ground pressure (LGP) model or in an XL configuration. The LGP model has an operational weight of 33,730 lbs. (15,300 kg) and ground pressure of 4.98 psi (34.3 kPa), while the XL configuration weighs 31,907 lbs. (14,500 kg) with a ground pressure of 6.16 psi (42.2 kPa). Both feature a track length of 8 ft., 11 in. (2,720 mm). The HD130 comes standard with a 2D grading system that simplifies precision grading for novice operators. The system controls the blade functions, enabling faster and more accurate grading without the need for GPS or lasers. Standard electrohydraulic controls enhance operation and accuracy, and the ergonomically designed joystick helps reduce operator fatigue. Blade movement, slope and tilt can be adjusted to three different levels of control via the monitor. Other key specifications include maximum travel speed of 5.6 mph (9.0 km/ hr), eight lower track rollers, and shoe width of 30 in (760 mm) with LGP blade. The HD130 dozer comes Trimble-ready from the factory, so Trimble Read More Machine Control can easily be installed, offering enhanced precision and eqtoday.co/ril1cvm3 guidance for complex designs and construction projects.

Komatsu WA700-8 Wheel Loader This wheel loader is an ideal four-pass match with 70-ton trucks such as Komatsu’s new HD605-10 haul truck. The WA700-8 also offers improvements in performance, efficiency and operator comfort compared to its predecessor, the WA700-3. Compared to the previous model, the WA700-8 delivers: Up to 8% more gross power and 15% more torque, making it a robust choice for demanding work environments; 6% increase in lifting force and rated load, allowing operators to handle larger volumes of material with greater ease; Up to 8% more fuel efficiency, helping reduce operating costs while maintaining high productivity. The WA700-8 features a comfortable cabin with technology designed to help reduce operator fatigue on long shifts, including a new advanced joystick steering system and electronic pilot control levers for precision and ease of operation. Automation features, such as an automatic digging system, semi-automatic approach and semi-auto dump systems, simplify repetitive tasks, helping operators optimize load cycles. The modulated clutch Read More system offers precise control for smooth transitions between forward eqtoday.co/dztjezs6 and reverse, which is critical during truck-loading operations.

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January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

7

2025 ATTACHMENT GUIDE Specialized and multipurpose solutions offer today’s contractors more jobsite versatility, productivity and efficiency No matter which type of construction work you are tackling, when it comes to the jobsite, productivity is the name of the game.

As many contractors look to increase productivity by diversifying their fleets, attachments have stepped into the spotlight to become a valuable addition to some of the most in-demand pieces of equipment. As manufacturers continue to recognize the need and develop their product lines, today’s contractors are embracing a bevy of attachment solutions that can provide a muchneeded boost to their operations, jobsites and teams.

To help contractors track down and spec some of today’s top options encompassing different types of equipment and an array of applications, Equipment Today presents the 2025 Attachment Guide. Organized by application throughout this section, readers will find a breadth of solutions ready to go to work in earthmoving, demolition, roadbuilding, material handling, site prep/land clearing, and snow removal applications.

Read More eqtoday.co/attachments

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EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

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ATTACHMENT GUIDE Earthmoving

Bobcat Heavy-Duty Buckets

ALLU D-Series Screening Crushing Bucket

Large excavator attachments include a trenching bucket and grading bucket paired specifically with the E145 and E165 large excavators. Heavy-duty trenching bucket for the E145 makes light work out of the heaviest digging and comes in 24-, 25- and 42-in. sizing options. Heavy-duty grading bucket can be pinned on, quick coupled or utilized with a thumb and is especially suited for operators looking to easily finish, grade, backfill or clean ditches.

The ALLU D-Series Screening Bucket is a powerful hydraulic attachment for excavators and wheel loaders. It helps to process, screen, crush, and reuse materials on-site with minimal effort. Your excavator, tractor, wheel loader or skid steer will transform into a multifunctional tool that can screen, crush, mix, aerate, pulverize and load in one simple operation. The D-Series is a versatile attachment designed for material processing, screening and recycling applications. It can screen and separate various materials, including different soil types, sand, gravel, asphalt, compost, demolition waste and biomass, producing end products of different fractions. The D-Series Screening Bucket adapts to the material being processed thanks to the numerous drum and blade options that can be installed in the bucket – either at the factory or as a retrofit. The D-Series consists of three models: DN, DS, and DH.

Manitou Construction Bucket

Durable bucket designed for an intensive use: digging, soil or rubble handling applications.

Includes a wide range of bucket capacities from 500L to 1500L. The construction bucket is suitable for handling materials with a density ≤ 2,1. Bucket is equipped with interchangeable teeth for better longevity.

Specially created for building site and earthwork. Very rigid structure that ensures excellent bucket life.

Bucket fitted with teeth made for an easy and powerful penetration on earth.

Oriel Attachment Product Line

Quality attachments are designed and manufactured for the construction, earthmoving and forestry industries. Quick coupler with a “Triple Lock” design that has only three moving parts and features a “Dead Lock” for added safety. Hydraulic thumbs, digging and ditching/angle tilt buckets, tilting couplers, demolition rippers and grapples and a tree shear built to suit machine sizes from 6,000 to 100,000 lbs. Pallet forks and rakes also available.

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EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

John Deere Roll-Out Buckets

The 72-in.-wide RB72, 84-in.-wide RB84 and 96-in.-wide RB96 roll-out buckets are optimized for G-Series compact track loaders and K-Series compact wheel loaders (RB84 and RB96 only). They utilize the machine’s auxiliary hydraulics to roll out and dump material, providing an additional 34 in. of dump reach when fully extended. Rather than requiring the machine hinge pin to be raised higher than the hopper for dumping, the buckets pivot near its cutting edge for additional dump height. Their 114 degrees of rollout provides for optimal material spillage control. High-strength, large-diameter pivot pins provide added durability.

Yanmar Attachments for Compact Track Loaders

Yanmar attachments include a full range of buckets, augers, trenchers, stump grinders, soil conditioners, breakers, sweepers, pallet forks, brush mowers, grapple rakes, grapple buckets and snow and grading blades. The introduction of the new attachments supports fleet owners, contractors and rental centers by allowing Yanmar dealers to act as a one-stop shop for a package of Yanmar equipment and attachments. The attachments, available through Yanmar’s dealer network, allow for compatibility for use with Yanmarbranded compact track loaders.

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ATTACHMENT GUIDE Earthmoving

Ignite Attachments Breaker and Concrete Chute Bucket Wimmer Tilt Buckets

Wimmer North America offers many sizes and style of tilt buckets. Wimmer can fit your machine with the right size bucket that is engineered for your specific application. Made in the U.S. out of tough Hardox 450 wear plate and designed for extreme duty, Wimmer excavator tilt buckets are designed to be the toughest on the market.

Ignite Attachments offers a heavy-duty line of breakers, designed for use in construction.

The three-model series features a straightforward design. With a dual mounting option and a powerful strike, Ignite breakers can be used with mini track loaders and skid steer loader adaptors, supporting fleet flexibility for demanding demolition jobs. The company also offers a new concrete chute bucket. The new bucket features a removable spout, for maneuverability in tight spaces. It also employs laser-cut steel and robot welding. The new concrete chute bucket is available in one size and has a capacity of up to 0.75 yd.

ESCO XDP Bucket for Hydraulic Excavators

ESCO XDP construction excavator buckets are field-proven for durability and performance. The XDP buckets are extreme-duty plate lip buckets.

Buckets may be ordered with cutting edges or plate lips with tooth-style lips.

Complete custom wear packages are also offered for abrasive applications. ESCO excavator buckets come standard with a tough T-1 steel plate lip, full bottom wear runner, strong formed beam for torsion resistance, a triple taper basket that ensures fast, full loading and clean dumping on each pass and one-piece side reinforcing plates for greater structural integrity. For toothstyle lips, ESCO construction excavator buckets feature the Ultralok system for penetration and loading. Lip centre and wing shrouds are also available.

Caterpillar General Duty Excavator Buckets

MB BF60.1 S4 Bucket Crusher

Urban construction sites and limited work spaces are the ideal application for the BF60.1 bucket crusher, regardless of the crushing job.Suitable for excavators starting from 17,600 lb, The BF60.1 weights approximately 3,600 lb and has a capacity of approx. 0.72 cubic yards.The mouth opening measures to 24 x 20” to ensure an optimal production rate of 30 cubic yards per hour. ˜ Recommended excavator: 22,050-39,680 lbs. ˜ Load capacity: 0.72 cy. ˜ Pressure: 3,191-4,061 psi ˜ Back pressure: <145 psi ˜ Oil flow rate: 32-40 gal./min.

Cat buckets are matched to Cat excavators so operators can take on heaping loads without compromising fuel efficiency or machine health.

˜ The dual radius

shell profile improves material flow into the bucket. The added heel clearance ensures the bottom of the bucket does not drag, reducing maintenance costs. ˜ Fuel consumption peaks during digging. Cat buckets are designed to cut through material quickly to enhance overall operating efficiency. ˜ Bucket shape and sidebars keep the most material in your bucket for every load. ˜ The integrated hinge plate helps distribute force better than a weld-on hinge plate. ˜ Cat buckets are manufactured with high-strength, abrasion resistant steel, especially in excessive wear areas. ˜ Protect high wear areas on all sides of the bucket with Cat Ground Engaging Tools (GET) such as side cutters and sidebar protectors. ˜ Install and remove tips quickly and safely with the hammerless Cat Advansys system while ensuring their secure fit with CapSure retention.

Werk-Brau Reverse V Bucket Attachment

Werk-Brau’s Reverse V-Line Bucket allows all teeth to engage the ground simultaneously during application. This bucket can be used in areas with shale or layered rock formations. The attachment’s design spreads the machine’s digging force across all the teeth. When they engage the ground at the same time, the new design allows a full bucket width to be ripped or scraped into the shale, rather than other designs where forces are concentrated on the leading tooth. With oversized leading edges and a reinforced plate, the Reverse V-Bucket promotes long service life in severe conditions. Constructed of T-1 steel in critical areas, this bucket features steel walls and reinforced wear areas. Each bucket has tapered sides to reduce wear on bucket sides and to allow for dumping. In addition to working in shale and layered rock common in Texas, Werk-Brau Reverse V-Line Buckets can also be used for moderate prying.

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January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

11

ATTACHMENT GUIDE Demolition

Epiroc Demolition Pulverizer

The straight design of the Demolition Pulverizer makes it optimally suited for primary demolition and secondary reduction of non-reinforced and reinforced concrete structures.

˜ Available for carriers from 18 to 35 tons ˜ Integrated speed valve ensures faster working cycles ˜ 300 degrees of endless hydraulic rotation allows optimal positioning and precise handling

˜ Replaceable and reversible cutting blades and replaceable tooth plates ˜ Piston rod guard provides full hydraulic cylinder protection

Genesis M7 Concrete Cracker

Genesis has announced the availability of its new demolition tool, the M7 Concrete Cracker. Designed to fit remote-controlled demolition robots and mini excavators, the M7 is sized for interior demolition as well as concrete processing and recycling. Fitting up to 25,000-lb. carriers, the M7 weighs 1,400 lbs. and features a 27-in. jaw opening with a 19-in. jaw depth. The solid Strenx 900 steel jaws provide rugged durability while the replaceable teeth and blades simplify maintenance. The M7 processes concrete with a hydraulic booster that increases power and speed and a fully guarded cylinder rod that is protected from debris. The knock-around rotation option, which features adjustable brake and position locks, makes it possible for an operator to position the M7 for picking up material. A hydraulic rotation option is also available.

Brokk BHB 1300 Hydraulic Breaker Attachment

The Brokk BHB 1300 hydraulic breaker attachment is designed for concrete and asphalt demolition jobs.

This versatile attachment has a 400900 blow-per-minute rate applicable for breaking granite and similar types of rock or surfaces. The BHB 1300 works with the Brokk 900 demolition robot. When paired together, operators can carry out demolition work in hard-to-reach areas of the jobsite, as well as tight spaces. It features hitting power of 2,800 Joule/ Nm. Its weight is 2,756 lbs. and it has the capability of 400-900 blows/min.

DEVELON HB-Series Hydraulic Breakers

DEVELON has expanded its attachment offering with the launch of HB-Series hydraulic breakers, the HB06H and HB15FH, in North America. The breakers are engineered for performance, durability and maintenance in demolition, mining, quarry and general construction applications. The HB06H and HB15FH are compatible with DX62R-7 and DX63-7 mini excavators, DX140LC-7 and DX140LCR-7 crawler excavators and the DX140W-7 wheel excavator. DEVELON HB06H and HB15FH breakers feature heavy-duty materials and components. The breakers’ durability is supported by a heat treatment process and the use of heavy-duty materials for various components, such as the cylinder and piston.

Vermeer PD25R Pile Driver

Vermeer’s model features a 25-ft (7.6-m) pile driving capability, allowing solar contractors to install longer piles for larger solar arrays and on varied terrain. The PD25R’s extended reach enables contractors to adapt to changing project requirements and site conditions for productivity in solar field construction. Powered by a 74-hp (55.2-kW) Tier 4 Final/Stage IV engine, the Vermeer PD25R delivers impressive performance in the field. It achieves transport speeds of up to 2.5 mph (4.0 km/hr) and generates substantial hydraulic power for improved hammer downforce. This power combination enables the machine to operate effectively across a wide range of ground conditions, including challenging terrains. As a result, contractors can tackle diverse project sites, expanding their business opportunities and improving project efficiency.

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EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

Bobcat Hydraulic Breaker With Nail Point

Turn your compact loader or excavator into a powerfully precise demolition machine with the Hydraulic Breaker with Nail Point - HB880. The HB880 provides powerful force to break through concrete, rock,and asphalt and delivers efficiency by matching hydraulic capacity of the carrier to the breaker, allowing consistent machine-to- breaker performance. The auto power regulates pressure automatically, ensuring hydraulic breaker operation regardless of changes in outdoor temperature, delivering maximum performance across a large range of carriers. It also limits excessive pressure at the time of start-up, preventing possible downtime. The cylindrical design improves access to jobs in confined areas, providing accurate attachment operation in more operating environments. Quickly and easily switch the hydraulic breaker attachment from a loader to an excavator with the Bob-Tach and X-Change attachment mounting systems, maximizing attachment utility. Designed for minimum downtime, the internal power cell has fewer moving parts. Also, the attachment design includes only 12 main service parts, reducing time spent on maintenance and improving overall lifetime of the attachment.

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ATTACHMENT GUIDE Material Handling

Genesis GRP 480 Hydraulic Mobile Shear

Developed in response to customer requests, the GRP 480 Rebar Processor features numerous bolt-on wear parts and surfaces for maintenance and jaw protection. The bolton, weldable lower tusks work with the weldable, replaceable piercing blades to sort and separate rebar bundles.

Additionally, a bolt-on plate on the cutting side of the upper jaw provides a replaceable wear surface and protects the jaw’s parent material. The GRP also features an extralarge pivot group designed to withstand the rigors of daily rebar processing and provide durability. The Rebar Processor features a 24-in. jaw opening with a 26-in. jaw depth and fits up to 48,000-lb. carriers second-member mounted and 90,000-lb. carriers thirdmember mounted.

Manitou Demolition Bucket for Compact Machines

Manitou’s High-Strength Demolition Bucket for compact machines is a very strong bucket for severe application: demolition, ship trimming, etc. It is constructed with reinforced structure, including the sides, upper part etc. It includes a 400 HB wear plate and side plates. It’s a low-profile bucket designed for good material penetration and cab access. Heaped capacity of 48-230 gal., width of 43 in. to 48 in.

Brokk Darda MC300 Multi Cutter Attachment

The Darda MC300 Multi Cutter for use on Brokk 200 and 300 models weighs in at only 639 lbs. but has a cutting force of 60 tons.

˜ Hydraulic 360-degree rotary drive enables exact positioning

˜ 14-in.-wide jaw opening handles a variety of metals

˜ Design allows users to sharpen rather than replace jaws

˜ Measures 50 in. long, 12 in. wide and 21 in. high

Mazio Demolition Attachments

Mazio Attachments offers contractors an assortment of demolition tools for various jobs — from primary and secondary crushers to multiprocessors, pulverizers and grapples.

Mazio has six main attachment models, designed to fit excavators from 1 ton to 130 tons of operating weight: ˜ RS Series demolition crushers for primary demolition work, ˜ the RV Series hydraulic rotating crusher for both primary and secondary demolition, ˜ the MC Series multiprocessor with interchangeable jaw system for both primary and secondary demolition, ˜ Mazio FPV Series pulverizers for secondary demolition and recycling needs, ˜ the MP Series of mechanical pulverizers provide speed and strength in pulverizing a variety of material on the demolition site, while also separating reinforcing rods from concrete, and ˜ Mazio’s GR Series selection grabbers for sorting and loading.

ECONOMICAL DRILLING

SOLUTIONS DESIGN | BUILD | RENT | SELL

• Built & Backed by Drillers • 24/7/365 Support • Training and Operators Available • One Stop Shop for All Your Drilling Needs • Quick Change Between Digging & Drilling Visit REV Drill for a Demo Today Full Line of Tooling Available

Epiroc CB 5500 and CB 7500 Concrete Busters

The CB Concrete Busters have wide jaw openings and high cracking forces suited for demolishing thick foundation walls and cracking girders and heavy concrete at extreme heights.

˜ CB 5500 and CB 7500 suited for carriers in the 50 to 85 tons weight class and for use with high reach or long front carriers.

˜ Two powerful hydraulic cylinders deliver virtually continuous closing force ˜ Offer cracking forces of up to 190 tons depending on the model ˜ Two independently moving jaws with replaceable and reversible cutting blades ˜ 360-degree endless hydraulic rotation www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment

Let Us Be Your Drilling Partner!

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January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

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ATTACHMENT GUIDE Roadbuilding

Brokk BCP Planer Attachment

The BCP Planer Attachment comes in three models for Brokk remote-controlled demolition machines and is designed for controlled material removal on walls, floors and ceilings for cleaning, renovation and restoration applications.

˜ 10- and 13-in. drum sizes with maximum cutting depths of 1/4 in. per pass (1/2 in. combined) and automatic leveling in all directions

˜ 360-degree rotation allows use at any angle including overhead ˜ Selection of cutting drums for different operations with drum replacement taking less than 5 minutes

˜ Fully remote controlled from the Brokk control box FAE RPL/EX Fixed Tooth Road Planer

FAE has expanded its construction line with the RPL/EX road planer for excavators. The new road planer for excavators is based on cold planer technology. With cold planer technology, the road’s surface is scraped and cut by the impact of special teeth attached to the rotor. The RPL/EX has a specially designed layout to reduce vibration. With these features, the RPL/EX can be used to prepare roads for resurfacing or to support excavation operations. The RPL/EX is compatible with excavators from 8 to 14 tons, can mill up to 5.3 in. deep and has a working width of 18 in. The head comes standard with technological and structural features. These include an adjustable hydraulic base that allows you to manage the machine’s working depth, a wide-stroke self-leveling system that allows you to keep the head properly aligned while in operation and an adjustable right skid that allows the operator to keep the head aligned in overlaps. It also has specially designed teeth specifically for use on asphalt and concrete road surfaces.

Astec RX-405 Cold Planer

Equipped with a mid-mount variable cutter system (VCS), this machine offers optimized versatility with cut widths ranging from 2 ft. to 5 ft., achieving a maximum cut depth of 14 in. Powered by a Tier 3 or Stage 5 Cummins QSL-9 engine rated at 430 hp, the RX-405 ensures performance and productivity on every jobsite. One of the standout features of the RX-405 is its design, including a secondary conveyor that can swing 60 degrees on each side, providing a full conveyor swing of 120 degrees. This, coupled with a 750-gallon water tank – the largest in its class – ensures limited interruption and maximum efficiency even in the most demanding environments. Astec updated the ergonomics and appearance of the controls to improve operator comfort and usability. Additionally, a new operator environmental awareness system will make its debut at the show. Set to be available on the RX-405 and all milling machines in Q4 2024, this real time view of the machine from above will enhance safety and visibility to obstructions, thereby boosting productivity.In addition to this cutting-edge technology, the RX-405 offers a range of other customizable options to suit the diverse needs of contractors and rental agencies. Options include a 24V LED night light package, Guardian telematics, auto lubrication system, rear object detection system, vacuum dust extraction kit and more.

RoadHog G5HD Heavy-Duty Cold Planer

The Generation 5 HD (G5HD) heavy-duty cold planer for skid steers is equipped with a Fairfield 7HBX planetary coupled to a Sauer M44 piston motor.

˜ Available in cutting widths of 18, 24, 30, 40 and 48 in. ˜ Can achieve up to an 8-in. cutting depth for optimal base repair and stabilization work

˜ 5-in. tooth clearance for reduced drag in cuts below 2.5 in. ˜ Features include a 3/4-in. chassis and housing plate, 1.5-in. walled cutting drum and a durable front steel debris guard

John Deere CP40G Cold Planer

Powered by Wirtgen Group milling machine and cutting technology, the machine features in-cab controls, including tilt float activation for pass matching across rolling terrain. This rugged model can slide horizontally from left to right, for control, and is designed for pick replacement. Visible indicators for side plate depth, tilt angle and milling drum cut boundary support operation while an optional pressure gauge aids in monitoring milling performance. Additionally, the optional water tank mounts within the cold planer frame to provide filling and the nozzle kit suppresses dust. In addition, this model is compatible with the 333, 334 and 335 P-Tier machines.

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EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

Road Widener FH-R Material Placement Attachment

Road Widener ‘s patented FH-R material placement attachment features a remote-controlled design that allows the operator of the host machine to control the attachment via remote control, enhancing safety by eliminating the danger of additional workers standing along the jobsite. The FH-R is a solution for material placement, dispensing topsoil, gravel, asphalt, limestone and more, all with an attachment compatible with common machines. The remote-controlled attachment connects to most skid-steers, compact track loaders, road graders and wheel loaders, operating off the host machine’s engine and hydraulics. It is available in left, right or dual dispensing configurations to take on roadways. The attachment is designed for a variety of tasks including backfilling, road widening, road shoulder repairs, remediation and aggregate placement. The material is poured into the hopper at the top of the FH-R and then dispensed via remote control in adjustable lay-down widths from 1 foot to 6 feet. The attachment dispenses up to 20 tons of material in under 10 minutes. The FH-R works with standard and high-flow hydraulics and has five grease fittings to maintain.

The compact size of the FH-R attachment supports transport with a common trailer that is towable by a standard pickup truck. Additionally, the FH-R’s small footprint decreases traffic disturbance and danger on busy highways and narrow backroads.

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LET’S MAKE SOMETHING CLEAR BRUSH CUTTERS ARE IN OUR DNA When you’ve got job that requires a site to be prepped or cleared, you need attachments you can trust to get the job done right the first time. At Blue Diamond Attachments, we’ve got your back.

Our family of brush cutters are purpose built to provide optimal performance on your skid and compact track loaders, mini loaders and full line of excavators. Providing you exactly what you need to get to the next phase of your project on – or even ahead of schedule.

So, whether the job is large, small or somewhere in between, Blue Diamond brush cutters are designed to handle it. Choose Blue Diamond – where all we do is elevate everything you do.

Clear your way to increased productivity by scanning the QR code or visit us at www.BDACutters.com!

ATTACHMENTS - IT’S ALL WE DO

ATTACHMENT GUIDE Site Prep/Land Clearing

Toro Grapple Rake

Blue Diamond Attachments Land Grader Blue Diamond Attachments has added an allnew land grader to its full line of skid steer attachments. The new Blue Diamond land grader offers front and rear cutting edges — allowing users to push or pull material for precise placement. Both bolt-on cutting edges are 1/2 in. thick with adjustable side edges and the blade attachment articulates up to 8 in. independently of the machine on either side. Key features of the Blue Diamond land grader include:

The Toro grapple rake attachment allows operators to grab, drag, lift, and place materials with ease. The grapple has two heavy-duty cylinders capable of producing 3000 pounds of clamping force at the tine tips, insuring you can grab-ahold and not let go. ˜ Twin heavy-duty hydraulic cylinders ˜ 35.5-in. (87.6 cm) width guarantees access to tight areas ˜ Tines constructed of 3/8-in. (1 cm) AR400 steel ˜ Four greaseable pivots reduce wear

˜ Rear-positioned wheels: Compact design allows the operator to get into corners, up against structures, and around pillars with ease while also improving travel and stability on graded surfaces. ˜ Front and rear cutting edges: Bolt-on, front and rear cutting edges allow the operator to push or pull material for precise placement. Both cutting edges are made of 1/2-in. thick hardened steel and are replaceable. Side edges are adjustable and replaceable. ˜ Universal full-size mount ˜ Powder coat finish: The Blue Diamond powder coat finish holds up against the toughest elements. ˜ Hydraulic control: Connectors, cylinders, hoses, valves and solenoids are standard equipment. ˜ Optional 3D Laser Receiver

Virnig Power Rake

The Power Rake is available in 6- and 7.5-ft. sizes featuring a floating design to keep the rake level for a smooth, even finish.

˜ Operator can

manually angle the rake 25 degrees in either direction or an optional Hydraulic Angle allows for quick angle change from inside the cab ˜ Bidirectional drum works the soil in both directions ˜ Includes standard carbide tip teeth, removable end plates and solid urethane-filled tires ˜ Direct-drive Eaton motor ˜ Recommended flow rate of 15 to 25 gpm

Fecon Fusion Platform

Fecon has launched Fusion, a telematics platform that uses dynamic features such as automatic machine calibration, location services and performance tracking, for mulching operations.

Fusion automatically calibrates the attachment to the carrier in realtime to optimize performance, minimize downtime and expand the machine’s lifespan. Fusion is initially available on high-flow Bull Hog and Blackhawk attachments. Fecon brings intelligent control technology to a new level in the mulching industry. Fusion automates mulcher set up through its Plug n’ Play design that eliminates manual setup and tuning. With this feature, customers can attach their mulcher to any compatible carrier and run the machine. The mulcher is optimized to the carrier and working conditions at all times.

Ignite 72-Inch Tine Rake

TRK Severe Duty Scoop Rake

This versatile tine rake collects debris and smooths lawns in preparation for reseeding and fertilizing as well as quickly rids of surface debris for maintaining gravel parking lots, driveways, or walking trails. The three-point rake rotates a full 360 degrees, with five forward and five reverse settings to pull debris off to the side, straighten it to pull debris into a pile or reverse it to push debris piles out of the way. The tine rake is also available in 60-in. and 84-in. models. High-carbon curved tines withstand wear and tear and can be replaced to increase the life of the attachment. A three-point hitch is used to attach your rear-mounted tine rake attachment. An adjustable top link is centered above two lower link arms, comprising the three points. The tine rake quickly and easily fits with connecting pins at each point. The tine rake implement does not require power takeoff (PTO). Simply attach it to the three-point hitch and get started. It rotates a full 360 degrees and can be angled or reversed simply by relocating the index pin.

The TRK Severe Duty Scoop Rake is designed for heavy applications and production land clearing applications. ˜ 36- to 84-in. widths designed for 8- to 60-ton excavators ˜ Available in “scoop” shape or “standard” root rake shape ˜ Scoop design gets under stumps, big rocks and large roots, while its profile enables handling of bigger loads and sifting out dirt ˜ Extra-thick shank with replaceable teeth allows for deeper unimpeded ground penetration ˜ Constructed from T-1 and AR400 steel at all critical points

New Holland Construction Landscape Rake

The New Holland Construction landscape rake was designed to remove small to mediumsized rock as small as 3/4 in. along with unwanted roots and debris. Features include:

˜ Picks up material as small as 3 ⁄4 in.

˜ Adjustable side skids for setting depths

˜ Exclusive replaceable bolt-on rake bars ˜ Rake bars scarify and level while breaking up lumpy soil and picking up rocks ˜ Dual springs on cover allow for adjustable down-pressure ˜ Top cover opens hydraulically for easier dumping ˜ Plug and Play Ready: Includes proper hose lengths, quick disconnects, wire harness and universal mounting plate

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EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

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ATTACHMENT GUIDE Kage Hydraulic Wing Plow

Snow Removal

The largest plow offered by Kage, the plow is part of its SnowDozer series of plows for 30,000- to 50,000-lb. wheel loaders and 300-plus-hp tractors. The SnowDozer Wing untilizes the original SnowDozer center moldboard. Instead of having the removable box for a twoin-one system, the outermost sections of the plow have hydraulic wings that can pivot 180 degrees front to back.

The SnowDozer Wing can expand to as large as 28 ft. wide and get as narrow as 12 ft. wide simply by folding the 4- or 5-ft. wings out or in, respectively.

With adjustable independent and simultaneously controlled wings, the SnowDozer Wing can move snow and maneuver in any way you can imagine.

This wing plow self levels through the use of multiple forms of float. It levels side-to-side through 12 degrees moldboard oscillation. Front-to-back leveling is achieved through floating and oscillating wing skids and is aided front end loaders through a floating quick attach. That means that both the heel and toe of the wing skids will be in contact with the substrate with the same pressure and will wear evenly.

(It attaches to tractors through a Cat II three-point hitch.)

Teleo and Storm Equipment Autonomous Snow Plow

Teleo and Storm Equipment have introduced a remoteoperated and autonomous snow plow. With support from Teleo dealer RDO Equipment Co., the companies worked to retrofit a John Deere 332G skid steer loader with Storm Equipment’s Metal Pless snow plow blade and Teleo Supervised Autonomy, Teleo’s technology that enables remote and autonomous operations. The machine is designed for mass snow clearing in large open areas, such as parking lots. Customers can order the retrofit of heavy equipment for remote-operated and autonomous operations from Teleo, along with an autonomous-ready snow plow blades properly sized for various machine types from Storm Equipment. Once outfitted with Teleo’s retrofit kit, the machines are supervised by an operator sitting in a central command center.

Toro Snow Clearing Attachments

The Dingo Snow Thrower’s two-stage design provides power to break up chunks of hardened snow and throw it out of the path, leaving a clean surface. The chute can be adjusted from the operator’s position and thanks to its electrical articulation, drivers do not have to hand crank it into position. The Snow Thrower features a direct-drive design for torque and power.

The worm gear drive and hydraulic relief systems are durable.

This attachment’s maximum hydraulic pressure is 15.5 gpm.

There are also no belts to loosen or adjust over time. The Snow Thrower is designed for use with Dingo TX 427, TX 525, TX 700, TX 1000 and TX 1300 models. The 4-ft. and 5-ft. BOSS straight-blade plow attachments are for clearing walkways and sidewalks. Featuring polyethylene blades, both options are built with a full-blade trip design to minimize the impact of hitting an obstacle. These attachments are fully hydraulic.

TrucBrush SD-19 for Lowboy and Flatbed Clearing

TrucBrush SD-19 for lowboy and flatbed clearing of accumulated snow improves safety by eliminating the need for employees to manually clear snow from the top of a truck or trailer. This, in turn, reduces risk of the following hazards: ˜ Risk of dislodging and jeopardizing other road users’ safety ˜ Risk of damaging trailer vehicle components ˜ Additional weight that could cause roadway violations ˜ Risk of musculoskeletal injuries with manually clearing ˜ Reduction in productivity due to clearing time TrucBrush easily attaches to and is powered by a front-end loader, making the service very mobile and easily outsourceable to a snow service contractor who can buy or rent TrucBrush from an authorized TrucBrush dealer. This new work tool allows snow service contractors to grow their businesses by providing a new service.

Hilltip Showcases Full Line of SnowStriker Plows

Hilltip offers a line of SnowStriker plows in North America, including straight blade and v-plow models for half-ton pickups, SUVs, UTVs, tractors and loaders.

SnowStriker plows feature a curved, powder-coated snow blade made of high-strength steel, making them durable, yet lightweight. They also have adjustable two-segment trip edges for plow protection. The cutting edges are available with either polyurethane or steel construction.

Other standard features include an adjustable attack angle and tilting blade. The SnowStriker plows are available in widths ranging from 5 ft., 5 in., to 8 ft., 6 in. Hilltip’s Quick Hitch mounts allow for easy on/off connections to pickups, SUVs and UTVs.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment

Unwanted vegetation? We have the right tool – or AX – for the job.

Choose from our full line of Battle Ax ® forestry mulchers for skid steers, excavators and prime movers, or our new stump grinder and brush cutter attachments. Find your match at Loftness.com.

FORESTRY MULCHERS

January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

17

PRE-SHOW COVERAGE | By Merina Shriver, Junior Editor, Equipment Today

Inside the Show:

World of Concrete The 2025 installment promises innovative tech and equipment solutions, networking opportunities and education to keep up with an evolving industry

A

s the largest concrete trade show, World of Concrete (WOC) has packed engaging industry events and exhibits into its show every year for more than 50 years. This year is no exception — WOC 2025 has a lot to offer, including educational sessions, networking events, expansive exhibits and more.

With over 1,000 exhibitors signed on for the 2025 installment, the trade show will be brimming with booths to visit and new developments to explore, both in and around the Las Vegas Convention Center. Alongside the week’s events and exhibits, attendees can also find educational sessions.

WOC 2025 is set to take place 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Jan. 21 to Jan. 23.

Educational sessions will take place 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Jan. 20 to Jan. 23.

The trade show will feature myriad indoor and outdoor events, meal-based forums and special

18

World of Concrete

educational sessions. You can access the complete schedule of events by visiting worldofconcrete.com, but the following are some highlights.

MASONRY AND BRICKLAYING

On Jan. 22 starting at 8 a.m., Masonry Madness Day will be packed with live masonry and bricklaying events. For the 23rd anniversary of the Spec Mix Bricklayer 500 (also known as the Super Bowl of Masonry), 27 registered participants will compete to take home the prize. Attendees can view the event live, in action, on-site at the Bronze Lot, where several masonry-based competitions and events will take place, along with prizes and giveaways for attendees.

DECORATIVE CONCRETE

Held in the Silver Lot during the show hours, Jan. 21-23, attendees can witness creativity come to life with the

EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment

World of Concrete

live decorative concrete event. Industry pros will be there to help demonstrate the way that normal concrete can be transformed into three-dimensional displays. The event is an opportunity for contractors and concrete professionals to learn more about the art of concrete, and get tips and information on the newest trends and equipment.

experience and advice. This session will be held Jan. 21 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Note: there is a fee to attend.

GET TOUGH CHALLENGE

PAVE THE WAY

In the Get Tough Challenge, WOC attendees will have the chance to operate a Western Star X-Series truck across a challenging obstacle course. To try your hand and give this truck a spin, attendees can check out the Bronze Lot during show hours from Jan. 21 to Jan. 23.

CONCRETE EDUCATION

WOC 2025 will feature an array of education sessions available to registered attendees. To attend a session, tickets must be purchased, either beforehand or on-site. There is a lot to learn this year, but here are a few highlights:

WORKSHOP: EXPLORING GENDER DIFFERENCES IN THE WORKPLACE

New to WOC this year, this educational session focuses on workplace gender disparities. The session will be hosted by leading women in the industry and will address topics like business ownership, leadership and team building. This session will be held Jan. 21 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Note: there is a fee to attend.

ENSURING PERFORMANCE OF LOW-CARBON CONCRETE MIXES

In another session new to WOC this year, Portland Cement Association (PCA) and American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC) will host an educational session on important steps to ensure the quality of lowcarbon concrete mixes. This session will feature panelists who are experts in the field and have a variety of perspectives on the topic. This session will be held Jan. 22 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Note: there is a fee to attend.

THE TOP 10 REASONS CONTRACTORS SUCCEED

EQUIPMENT UP CLOSE

As always, WOC exhibitors will showcase a wealth of new construction equipment and innovations. Here are a few to look out for: Wirtgen (Booth C5327) will present its SP 33 Concrete Paver in two configurations, which, thanks to its modular construction concept, enable the paving of monolithic concrete profiles such as curbs and berms, rectangular profiles, concrete safety barriers up to a height of 52 in. (1.3 m), and drainage and gutter profiles.

DIG IT

DEVELON (Booth C5684) will highlight its DTL35 compact track loader with a grapple and angle broom, the DX62R-7 mini excavator with a breaker, and its DL280-7 wheel loader with a 3-yard bucket.

Attendees can get hands-on with DEVELON’s compact equipment, which is ideal for excavating and grading tasks, as well as its 3.7-cubic-yard wheel loader.

BY THE NUMBERS In its 50th anniversary year, WOC 2024 hit some of its highest attendance and growth numbers across three days of exhibition and four days of education, welcoming tens of thousands of attendees and exhibitors. Here’s a breakdown: • 60,000 registrants — WOC 2024 hosted nearly 60,000 registered professionals from various industry sectors • 1,400 exhibitors — More than 1,400 companies exhibited and presented, sharing innovative and practical solutions, with 450 international exhibitors joining the 2024 installment, along with 325 first-time exhibitors.

• 700,000 square feet — More than 700,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space brought large crowds to exhibit halls, competitions and training sessions • 185 sessions — This all-time high amount of education sessions highlighted the importance of keeping up with an evolving industry

NEED A LIFT

JLG (Booth O31941, Silver Lot) will be showcasing its E313/313 Telehandler and 519 Telehandler.

Designed to meet the demanding needs of concrete applications, these machines offer enhanced performance, reliability and versatility.

THE GRIND

Superabrasive Inc. (Booth O30928 and S10605) will be highlighting a total of eight products at WOC. One of these products is the LAVINA 19 S7 Grinder line. The line consists of two models and both are lightweight, compact, and do grinding and polishing.

This session by Performance Construction Advisors will focus on the top 10 reasons contractors succeed and other factors that can help boost success for any size company.

A number of contractors will offer their real

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World of Concrete

IRONMARKETS ON-SITE While you’re making the rounds on the trade show floor, make sure to visit the IRONMARKETS booth to see more from Equipment Today and other publications in the IRONMARKETS and ForConstructionPros. com family. Our team will be located at Booth C4236, offering industry insights and free copies of our most recent issues. And keep an eye out for Equipment Today Editor-in-Chief Kathy Wells, who will be on-site throughout the week tracking down the latest from some the industry’s top manufacturers.

World of Concrete

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment

January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

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WORLD OF CONCRETE

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Products

Simpson Strong-Tie Titen HD Rod Coupler

Superabrasive LAVINA L20GS7 Propane Grinder

Titen HD Rod Coupler anchors are designed to provide a fast and simple way to attach threaded rod to a concrete stem wall or thickened slab footing. Unlike adhesive anchors, installation requires no special tools, cure time or secondary setting process — just drill and drive.

Designed for use with single- or multi-story rod tiedown systems, the Titen HD Rod Coupler is now available in a 1/2-in. x 9 3/4-in. size with a head-style that accepts 3/8-in.-diameter threaded rod. This anchor is code listed in ESR-2713 for both wind and seismic loading.

The Superabrasive 20-in. LAVINA S7 propane Grinder offers performance on jobsites. Powered by a Kawasaki 18-hp engine, the machine generates up to 363 lbs. of grinding pressure during use.

A sealed and dustproof grinding head enables reliable operation.

The propane grinder is equipped with a redesigned chain-driven planetary drive. Light-timing pulleys offer power transmission.

For mobility, operators can access a sturdy handle with controls located at the center. The control board features a key-start feature and an emergency stop push button for safety.

Milwaukee Tool MX FUEL Walk Behind Trowels

Milwaukee Tool expands its MX FUEL category with the release of the MX FUEL 600 mm Walk Behind Edging Trowel and the MX FUEL 900 mm Walk Behind Power Trowel. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor delivers control with a maximum blade speed of 130 rpm for the MXF WBT90 and 160 rpm for the MXF WBT60 and an ergonomic throttle design. Both trowels provide a smooth finishing experience with 5 hp of performance. The MX FUEL 600 mm Walk Behind Edging Trowel delivers up to 35 minutes of runtime per charge on full speed with a MX FUEL FORGE 12.0 Ah battery. The MX FUEL 900 mm Walk Behind Edging Trowel delivers up to 25 minutes of runtime per charge on full speed with a MX FUEL FORGE 12.0 Ah battery. Both trowels feature AUTOSTOP for user protection. The handlebar height is adjustable and a fine pitch dial enables users to make blade pitch adjustments. A lift hook supports maneuverability on the jobsite. ONE-KEY tool tracking and security offers a free-of-charge cloud-based tracking network and inventory management platform for tools. ONE-KEY also features a remote locking functionality.

GOMACO GP3 Slipform Paver

The GP3 can slipform up to 30 ft. wide, is available as a two-track or four-track paver and now includes self-programming valves that can automatically react and self-adjust to the dynamics of the machine.

• Paver elevation, steering, pivoting, travel control, anti-slip positive traction of tracks and more automatically corrected based on operator adjustments • Navigator display software brings all G+ paver accessories together for easy control and monitoring on an optional touchscreen display • Fully Wi-Fi capable to allow wireless control from multiple display screens anywhere on the paver • Vibrator monitoring system provides ability to monitor, control and diagnose each individual vibrator via the touchscreen display • Machine-to-Machine communication possible using the display and paver’s G+ control

JCB CT160 & CT260 Tandem Rollers

JCB has introduced two new tandem roller compaction machines, the CT160 and CT260, to the North American market.

At 3,770 to 6,041 lbs., these machines can be trailered for transportation. The CT160 offers a choice of either a 31.5-in. (800 mm) or a 39.3-in. (1,000 mm) drum. The CT260 comes with a 47.2-in. (1,200 mm) drum. The machines will be branded once again with Vibromax, after the German company JCB acquired in 2005. On both machines, the responsive directional drive lever enables fore and aft movements. From a bird’s-eye view, the CT160 and CT260 have an hourglass profile, a shape that enables operators to see the drum edges. On the CTs’ control panels, work modes are visible and the switches are sized to create tactile feedback even with gloved hands. Anti-vibration mounts isolate the operator from drum vibrations.

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EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

MGT Portable Concrete Vibrator

The new model is designed to be durable, easy to use and maintain, and highly ergonomic.

Aside from its distinctive looks, the latest model operates with a counterclockwise rotation, offering stability, reduced operator fatigue, and more efficient vibration transfer for optimal concrete compaction. The counterclockwise rotation also helps to reduce the torque exerted on the operator’s hands and arms, allowing longer and more comfortable operation.

It provides a smoother, more consistent vibration transfer to the concrete, resulting in better compaction and reducing the risk of over-vibration, which can lead to concrete segregation. Whether working on foundations, columns, walls, or slabs, this vibrator ensures the highest concrete quality and versatility. With interchangeable shaft lengths ranging from 7 ft. to 20 ft. and five different vibration head options, the new concrete vibrator is suitable for small- and large-scale projects. It provides precision in removing air bubbles and ensuring maximum concrete strength. Features include: • Counterclockwise rotation ensures better stability, reduces operator strain, and provides consistent vibration for uniform concrete consolidation.

• Interchangeable shafts offer flexibility, with five shaft lengths ranging from 7 ft. to 20 ft., enabling use in various applications and environments.

• Five vibration head options are available to meet specific project needs. Tailor your vibrator with head sizes of 1 in., 1.25 in., 1.5 in., 1.75 in., and 2.25 in. diameters.

• Constructed with high-quality materials to withstand the most challenging jobsite conditions while ensuring long-term reliability.

• This vibrator’s lightweight design and ergonomic handles make it easy to maneuver and operate comfortably, reducing worker fatigue over extended periods.

Husqvarna Large Floor Grinders

The new range of planetary floor grinders, including diamond tools, dust extractors, floor solutions, is designed to give customers an easier, more productive workday. The models share one common platform for efficiency.

From top to bottom, these floor grinders are designed for comfort and efficiency. Features include: • Dual Drive Technology, four-disc technology or conventional three-disc drive • New ergonomic remote control • Dustproof/waterproof grinding head and electrical cabinet • Mist cooler system for longer tool life and higher productivity • Integrated weights • EZchange attachment system with improved locking mechanism for tool holder plates • Standard S-model floor grinders combine reliability with straightforward operation

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The Worldwide Leader in Concrete Paving Technology

Central Hall -- C5142 Las Vegas Convention Center January 21-23, 2025

Open Air Area South FS Stand 1209/3 April 7-13, 2025

www.gomaco.com x info@gomaco.com GOMACO offers the full range of concrete slipform pavers, curb and gutter machines, trimmers, placer/spreaders, texture/cure machines and bridge/canal finishing equipment. GOMACO equipment features our exclusive and proprietary G+® control system, created in-house by our software engineers from the wants and needs of contractors paving in the field. At the heart of GOMACO equipment is our passion for concrete and our commitment to our customers. We look forward to visiting with you about your upcoming paving projects and your concrete paving equipment needs. Our worldwide distributor network and our corporate team always stand ready to serve and assist you.

CONCRETE STREETS AND HIGHWAYS x AIRPORT RUNWAYS x CURB AND GUTTER x SIDEWALKS RECREATIONAL TRAILS x SAFETY BARRIER x BRIDGE PARAPET x BRIDGE DECKS x IRRIGATION CANALS

GOMACO CORPORATION IN IDA GROVE, IOWA, USA x 712-364-3347

ROADBUILDING

 McQuay started with one volumetric truck in April 2020 with no plans to expand into outside concrete sales and delivery.

McQuay Construction

Volumetric Concrete Mixers Create Opportunities to LOWER PROJECT COSTS

Explore new revenue streams and overcome scheduling challenges associated with concrete pours

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tarting a volumetric concrete business can help contractors overcome the scheduling challenges associated with concrete pours.

If you are a contractor exploring a new revenue stream, volumetric concrete mixers tailor concrete delivery offerings to meet the most stringent requirements.

Volumetric technology offers a unique competitive advantage over traditional barrel mixers on jobs where concrete quantities are in question or specialty concrete is needed.

Since volumetric concrete mixers haul unmixed ingredients, time

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constraints and the resulting concrete quality degradation are eliminated.

You can sell every yard of concrete produced with zero waste. Traffic delays or paving machine breakdowns are no longer friction points with your customers. Fresh concrete is always available at the touch of a button and mix designs can be changed on the fly.

This allows you to provide customers with the ultimate flexibility, and quality that helps drive their success.

INTRODUCING VOLUMETRICS

Educating customers is critical to the success of a volumetric concrete

EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

business. Many are unfamiliar with volumetric concrete mixers.

Perceptions exist that volumetric concrete mixers are best suited for small pours.

While these applications allow you to only charge for the concrete used, volumetric concrete mixers provide a wide range of benefits for jobs of all sizes. As contractors become aware of the advantages, the demand will increase.

To maximize the return on your volumetric concrete mixer, focus on contractors who will realize the greatest benefits. These include applications where quality, travel

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Volumetric concrete mixers offer a cost-effective opportunity to expand into the concrete delivery business. Mixing the ingredients onsite results in highquality concrete and provides flexibility to change the mix design on the fly to meet customer demands.”

ROADBUILDING

McQuay is currently running 12 volumetric concrete mixers.

He currently uses 40% of the concrete produced internally while 60% is sold to outside customers.” time and wait time are critical to the project’s success. Volumetric concrete mixers are well suited to fill a wide range of needs from small residential projects to utility jobs to large continuous pours.

A NEW REVENUE STREAM

There are many ways to get into the volumetric concrete business.

McQuay Concrete & Construction initially purchased a volumetric concrete mixer to improve concrete quality and gain more control over scheduling. The company wanted to stop paying crews to wait until concrete showed up.

McQuay started with one volumetric truck in April 2020 with no plans to expand into outside concrete sales and delivery. This one truck produced 60 yd3 per hour. As the business grew, the quantity fell short of McQuay Construction’s internal demand, so they added another volumetric concrete truck was added.

With two trucks, production capacity doubled to 120 yd3 per hour and added more opportunities.

To help cover truck and driver costs, owner Zach McQuay began selling to a few neighbors who needed concrete. The new business took off from there as word spread quickly and demand increased. McQuay is currently running 12 volumetric concrete mixers.

He currently uses 40% of the concrete produced internally while 60% is sold to outside customers.

With the concrete delivery business booming, scheduling became the biggest challenge. Since McQuay owned all the equipment, it was just a matter of rearranging when the construction work was performed.

McQuay says he now tries to work his schedule around everyone else’s, and the that benefit to owning the trucks, pumps, water trucks and

pneumatic cement powder trailers is that there’s no need to wait on anyone else. He notes that if there’s a reason to address a customer’s need during the day, he can start a pour at eight o’clock at night. And since he own the entire operation, he maintain the hours he wants.

McQuay tries to play to the strengths of volumetric concrete when targeting customers. This requires educating customers on the benefits of the method.

While some may think volumetric concrete mixers are often only used for small pours like backyard patios or sidewalks, that isn’t true. The potential is found in seeking projects where volumetric can really shine. McQuay ays his average pour is 200-plus yd3.

The ideal jobs are where the concrete is tested. Volumetric concrete mixers excel in applications where temperature, slump and air are important considerations.

McQuay’s current customer list includes the Army Corps of Engineers and the Oklahoma Department of Transportation.

Keeping a volumetric business running requires a good handle on logistics. Important factors to consider include delegating drivers and trucks. McQuay’s operations include yards in Stillwater and Henrietta, where he has drivers hauling rocks and sand. The company makes sure to have enough cement powder for today and for tomorrow.

An important step is to always think ahead and get everyone on a schedule.

Volumetric concrete mixers offer a cost-effective opportunity to expand

 Volumetric technology offers a unique competitive advantage over traditional barrel mixers on jobs where concrete quantities are in question or specialty concrete is needed.

McQuay Construction

into the concrete delivery business.

Mixing the ingredients on-site results in high-quality concrete and provides flexibility to change the mix design on the fly to meet customer demands.

Once customers discover the benefits of volumetric concrete, including superior quality, unparalleled scheduling flexibility and variable concrete mix designs, the business will be positioned for continual growth.

Read More eqtoday.co/volumetric

Mark Rinehart is vice president, sales and marketing, at Cemen Tech. Visit cementech.com.

McQuay Construction

FLEETS ARE SWITCHING TO VMAC’S MULTIFUNCTION Fleets switch because VMAC’s Multifunction Power System is: 34% smaller 33% lighter Compared to other multi-power systems for service trucks 6-in-1 Multifunction Kubota

6-in-1 Multifunction CAT Power

Get The Specs: VMACAIR.com/fleets-MF 5-in-1 Multifunction Powered by Honda

January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

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ROADBUILDING Products

Hamm Electric Tandem Rollers

With eight electric rollers in the compact class, the HD 10e model (drum width: 1.00 m/ 39.4 in. and operating weight: 2.5t/5,512 lbs.) and the HD 12e model (drum width: 1.20 m/47.2 in. and operating weight: 2.7t/5,953 lbs.) offer the same compaction power as their combustion engine counterparts but produce zero local emissions. The e-rollers are operated in almost the same way as the other models in the HD CompactLine series.

A 48V li-ion battery with 23.4 kWh capacity provides the energy for driving, steering and dynamic compaction. Charging from 0% to 100% takes four hours on 220V. The roller is designed to operate in ambient temperatures of up to 113° F. The battery supplies enough energy for an average working day.

Volvo CE SD125 Soil Compactor

The 12-ton machine becomes the largest model in the Volvo soil compaction portfolio with an 84-in. smooth-drum and operating weight of 26,565 lbs. (12,050 kg). The SD125 features a powerful Tier 4F 4-cyl. Volvo engine with 147.5 hp (110 kW). Active DPF regeneration eliminates material build-up, reducing emissions. Its specs are similar to the existing SD115 but with a 0.2-in. (5 mm) thicker drum shell and a heavier outer eccentric weight.

This results in an additional 935 lbs. (424 kg) of mass on the drum, increasing the static load and eccentric force for a different amplitude profile. The center joint provides +/-35 degrees of articulation and +/-12 degrees of drum oscillation for stable and flexible performance over rough terrain. Because the drum is in constant contact with the ground, compaction is smooth and uniform. The additional static weight on the drum frame facilitates the ability to negotiate 35% slopes for gradeability. The angled frame allows high clearance in the approach to steep slopes and while loading, eliminating the possibility of damaging the surface or the machine. A heavy-duty axle is integrated into the drivetrain for a rear-wheel drive system. The No-Spin differential increases traction, eliminates tire slippage and improves gradeability and performance. A high-traction variant is available for demanding applications where additional torque is needed to tackle extreme slopes or thick lifts of loose material.

Orbit Screens Series 60 Model 68D Screening Plant

Orbit Screens offers the Series 60, Model 68D for screening materials on construction sites. The Model 68D is powered by a 25-hp diesel engine and comes equipped with a 2-yd hopper. Built for durability, it handles a variety of materials from topsoil and compost to gravel and rock. Accessible discharge heights include 11 ft. (fines) and 6 ft., 6 in. (overs) depending on the conveyor. When purchasing this model, customers can add an end gate cut off for the hopper, a hopper extension to 4.5 yd and brush package. The screening plant features a standard safety yellow finish for visibility on construction sites. Featuring orbital action, the Model 68D delivers separation of materials for clean output.

LeeBoy 8680 Paver

Features: • 210 hp (157 kW) Kubota Tier 4 Final diesel engine • Legend HD PRO screed • Paving widths variable up to 15 ft., 6 in. with PRO screed • 12-1/2 ton capacity material hopper • Dual electronic steering and adjustable operator platforms • Two 18-in. feeding conveyors • Hydraulic extending power tunnels • Automatic temperature control (ATC) standard • Smooth rubber tracks with oscillating bogeys • Actuator driven hood lift to aid in maintenance

Wirtgen GENERATION C² Round-shank Picks for Milling Concrete

Wirtgen GENERATION C² round-shank picks have been developed for milling concrete with Wirtgen ECO Cutter milling drums. They are characterized by high resistance to fracturing, low wear and long service life. The combination of ECO Cutter milling drums with GENERATION C² round-shank picks is designed for construction projects. The solid steel body geometry supports removal of material. Pick centering allows milling forces to be concentrated in the top part of the holder and relieves the burden on the clamping sleeve. The shank geometry also increases fracture resistance. In addition to this, the centering function of the grooved profile of the wear plate reduces wear and increases the service life of the round-shank picks and the toolholders.

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EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

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FULLY LOADED IS THE™

NEW STANDARD

EASY TO OWN & EASY TO OPERATE | COMPONENTS FROM BRANDS YOU TRUST SERVICE THAT’S LOCAL | INDUSTRY’S STRONGEST STANDARD WARRANTIES

©2024 SANY America Inc.

*Warranty applies to 2024 Excavator models only.

sanyamerica.com

EARTHMOVING

MASTER

Creep Control

to Optimize Efficiency How to avoid costly delays and downtime with this simple setting

 The ability to use creep control to independently control an attachment’s hydraulic motor and machine ground speed improves both the efficiency and control of the production/processing activity of the attachment.

Case CE

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EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

EARTHMOVING

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now removal, landscaping and construction forums are full of discussions about how to keep attachments from clogging and grinding work to a halt.

Any work that feeds material into the processing part of the attachment while the machine is moving — including snow blowers, flail mowers, cold planers, brooms, tillers and soil preparators — is prone to problems caused by operating too quickly.

It happens in an instant and, at best, creates frustration. At worst, malfunctioning attachments cost operators time and money, and over the long-term creates extra wear and tear on machines that need to function at top performance. Jobs may not be done completely, leave a poor appearance of the completed work or even mask that the work was haphazard. When this happens, reputable companies will have a foreman, job manager or extra employee using valuable time to check and recheck the machine’s work.

And in the end, operating a machine and attachment like this without proper control simply is not safe.

Without the aid of creep control, operators trying to manage much slower ground speeds do not work well over long days. Machines with these attachments normally operate at 10-25% of their normal speed and can lead to stalling the attachment.

WHY CLOGS HAPPEN

Attachments can clog or bind if too much material is handled too quickly.

Determining how much is too much material is where problems arise, and often depends on multiple factors: the experience of the operator, the density of the materials and the aggressiveness of the cut (or portion of work being processed).

Creep control limits the vehicle ground speed to a fraction of its normal maximum operating speed.

But it can be difficult for operators to manually control this slower ground speed with the precision needed to maintain efficiency. Without creep control, an operator must hold the controls just off center point, requiring extra concentration, grit and determination — which can be hard to muster when there already is a lot happening around the jobsite.

Determining how much is too much material is where problems arise, and often depends on multiple factors: the experience of the operator, the density of the materials and the aggressiveness of the cut (or portion of work being processed).” dirt into a tiller, asphalt into a cold planer, or loose material on pavement for a broom.

Some equipment manufacturers, for example, offer automatic creep control that enables the operator to set the machine speed at a consistent/slow “creep” while independently setting attachment speed via the throttle. The best creep control systems enable a user to adjust this ground speed in small increments, allowing very precise tuning for Case CE

STOPPING CLOGS BEFORE THEY START

The solution to clogging is smart creep control software, which smoothly and efficiently determines the optimal machine speed for conditions and allows adequate processing speed of the material — for example, snow into a snow blower,

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the application and environment. It will also retain the previous setting, so operators consistently using an attachment only need to make minor creep adjustments when they arrive at each new job. This allows for optimal use of hydraulic attachments, such as cold planers and brooms, for the greatest efficiency and least amount of time during setup.

Examples of the environmental changes that could reduce the proficiency of the attachment include: snow that is heavier due to higher water content caused by warmer weather; heat on a jobsite, which can also affect operating speed for attachments like cold planers or tillers; and high ambient temperatures, which can cause hydraulic system temperatures to rise and could cause reliability issues.

CREEP FUNCTIONALITY: 3 PRODUCTIVITY ENHANCEMENTS

Some operations may dictate a consistent ground speed every time the attachment is used, while other operations may require changing ground speed to meet the needs of the specific site. ˜ The ability to use creep control to independently control an attachment’s hydraulic motor and machine ground speed improves both the efficiency and control of the production/processing activity of the attachment. This prevents the machine from jumping and the attachment from jamming. ˜ Operators using creep control software can maintain a consistent auxiliary hydraulic flow rate (often a high value) while limiting the ground speed to a low range of maximum speeds — generally up

to about 3 mph versus customary speeds of 8 to 20 mph. ˜ Creep control allows operators to easily and consistently adjust ground speed to match equipment progress based on environmental conditions. The newest versions even provide operators a value on the display as reference, increasing consistency of operation. For example, operators will often adjust ground speed when using a cold planer on asphalt, allowing them to move more slowly when making deeper cuts, and managing the increased material, heat and cuttings during operation.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR CREEP MODE OPERATION

Guidelines for when to use creep mode operation include any time a hydraulic motor-driven production attachment is in use and the machine can move faster than the “processing” power the attachment can handle. Creep mode adjusts the engine speed (rpm) to maximize and optimize the attachment motor speed while controlling ground speed separately.

Operating specifications and requirements are dictated by the type of attachment or the manufacturer operating specifications. Engine rpm, which affects hydraulic pump flow to the attachment hydraulic motor, will need adjustment to satisfy specific attachment operating performance.

Material and jobsite conditions will influence machine operating speed and hydraulic attachment performance at different speeds.

Monitor machine operating temperatures (coolant, hydraulic) and ensure the machine maintains appropriate temperature range during creep and attachment operation.

In general, creep control promotes more precise control of the machine.

When operating machines at higher engine speeds, they operate more erratically and can cause issues for operators with a jerky, too-responsive operation. Some operations may even see the value of creep without an attachment when the machine is being operated in very close proximity to structures.

Read More eqtoday.co/creepcontrol Brad Stemper is product management lead, North America at CASE Construction Equipment. Visit casece.com.

 Creep mode adjusts the engine speed (rpm) to maximize and optimize the attachment motor speed while controlling ground speed separately.

January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

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EXCAVATORS & ATTACHMENTS

How to Choose the Right Excavator Bucket The wrong choice can affect both machine and project performance – here’s how to avoid mistakes in the selection process

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ough jobs demand tough attachments. But just like no two job sites are the same, neither are two excavator buckets. Selecting the wrong attachment, per application, can become a costly mistake, from reduced performance to premature wear of the bucket and machine. The wrong attachment will affect your bottom line and return on investment.

Machine downtime and additional labor can increase costs 10% to 20%.

With money and machinery at stake, let’s look at the factors that go into choosing the right bucket for your needs.

MATERIAL ABRASION & IMPACT

Material’s abrasion and impact factor into the type of bucket that best fits your needs. For instance, materials that are low on the abrasive scale with low impact such as topsoil, loam and coal are better handled with heavy-duty buckets. Medium abrasive materials with low to high impact such as sand, clay, gravel, shale, frost, travertine and limestone are application also well suited for heavy-duty buckets.

For higher abrasive materials with low to high impact such as high silica sand, caliche and shot granite, these applications are best suited for a severe-duty bucket. However, for projects with a steady diet of the most abrasive materials such as broken slag, sandstone, high quartzite granite and ore, extreme-duty buckets will be your best choice.

 Selecting the wrong attachment, per application, can become a costly mistake, from reduced performance to premature wear of the bucket and machine.

Werk-Brau

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HEAVY-DUTY, SEVERE-DUTY & EXTREME-DUTY BUCKETS

AR400 and T1(A514) steels are standard material grades you should ensure that are used in critical and high-wear areas in all excavator buckets. While heavy-duty buckets are one of the most popular excavator bucket styles, they are often chosen when application conditions vary or are not well known.

 Heavy-duty buckets are recommended for trenching in utility work and are great for various construction situations.

Werk-Brau

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EXCAVATORS & ATTACHMENTS

 Selecting the correct bucket for a particular application will impact the project, bottom line and return on investment.

Werk-Brau

The design goes deeper than just the type of steel used.

A flat bottom allows for easier load, unload, and backfill, while the dual taper/dual bottom plate radius allows for more efficient cleanout and fill. A high-strength top channel design prevents flexing and premature wear. Stacked bosses provide more durability than through bores which are commonly used on standard-duty buckets.

Heavy-duty buckets are recommended for trenching in utility work and are great for various contractor situations.

Designed with a thicker bottom and side wear plates for more durability, they also include pre-drilled holes for optional side cutters and shroud protectors. A wide range of tooth and shank assemblies are readily available for installation to make these buckets useful for many different use cases.

While severe-duty excavator buckets utilize AR400 and T1 steel like heavy-duty buckets, look for severe-duty lines that feature high-strength double-wear plates and heavy-duty wear straps, making them ideal for higher abrasive conditions.

Their side wear plates are 40% thicker for added protection against abrasion and gouging wear.

These buckets are typically 20% heavier than heavy-duty versions but provide greater durability. The severe-duty cutting edge is thicker than its heavy-duty counterpart, and groundengaging components are classed up to accommodate the application. This results in increased abrasion resistance.

Severe-duty buckets have thickened cutter bits and are predrilled for optional bolt-on side cutters and shroud protection as well.

Extreme-duty excavator buckets feature an aggressive dig angle, rugged construction of abrasion-resistant steel, and heavy-duty horizontal wear strips to efficiently excavate in the toughest conditions. Designed for durability and effectiveness even in brutal conditions, they are ideal for demolition work, shot rock, abrasive applications, moderate prying, and when paired with a thumb, material handling. The aggressive dig angle allows the bucket to tear through the earth and materials to scoop more efficiently. In addition, tapered side plates are engineered to reduce wear and allow for easier dumping.

ADDITIONAL EXCAVATOR BUCKET TYPES

If there is a specific application, a specialized type of bucket may be best suited as opposed to a heavy-, severe- or extremeduty bucket. Ditching and grading buckets for instance are designed for cleaning ditches, sloping, grading and other lightduty finishing work. Their shallow depth and compact size make working in tight areas easy to empty and contain solids within the bucket. Heavy-penetration buckets, on the other hand, are used in heavy abrasive applications where breakout force and cycle times are important. In these buckets, the breakout force is maximized due to decreased tip radius and increased pin spread. Other common bucket types include: ˜ Scoop buckets — Designed to provide maximum digging performance ˜ Metro-style buckets — A combination of standard digging tooth and flared teeth, leave a smooth floor and minimal spillage ˜ High-capacity buckets — Designed for use in high production truck loading applications, move more materials in a minimal number of passes Selecting the correct bucket for a particular application will impact the project, bottom line and return on investment.

Nobody wants to buy more than is needed, but buying too little can be costly too.

When in doubt about which bucket or attachment is best for your application, ask your dealer sales rep or the bucket or attachment manufacturer for assistance.

Read More eqtoday.co/excavatorbucket

Werk-Brau

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment

Mike Noward is regional account manager at Werk-Brau.

Visit werk-brau.com.

January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

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EXCAVATOR Products

Read More eqtoday.co/excavators1

Hyundai HX235LCR Excavator

The 24-metric ton HX235LCR excavator is a compact radius model featuring a Cummins QSB6.7 Tier 4 Final engine rated at 183 hp.

• Overall fuel efficiency improvement of up to 10% • Maximum digging depth of 22 ft. and maximum digging reach of 32 ft. 6 in.

• Bucket digging force of 37,104 lbf.

• 1.05-cu.-yd. capacity, 39.4-in.-wide standard bucket • 8-in. interactive, adjustable, touchscreen cluster-monitor in the cab • Optional Hyundai All-Around View Monitoring (AAVM) provides a 360-degree-surround virtual operating view

Case CX245D SR Minimum-Swing Excavator

The 60,400-lb. CX245D SR has a compact counterweight and modified boom placement to minimize the machine’s footprint.

• 160-hp Tier 4 Final engine does not require a diesel particulate filter • Bucket digging forces up to 34,600 lbs. and lift capacity up to 22,950 lbs.

• Faster cycle times achieved via an electronically controlled pump, larger control valve and multiple sensors • Intelligent Hydraulic System and four integrated control systems • Free Swing enables improved craning, laying or lifting of offset loads

DEVELON DX170LC-5 Crawler Excavator

The 17-metric-ton DX170LC-5 measures 8-ft. 5-in. wide and falls below the 80,000-lb. GVWR limit for simplified and less expensive transportation.

• 127-hp Tier 4 diesel engine optimized for use with high-pressure common rail fuel delivery and a cooled EGR system • Provides a 20-ft. maximum digging depth, 29 ft. 5 in. maximum digging reach and 25,794-lbf. bucket breakout force • Four power modes provide more control to better balance fuel consumption and machine power to working conditions • Digging, breaker, shear and lifting work modes maximize efficiency and fuel economy in specific applications.

• Standard rear view camera with side view camera available

JCB 370X Excavator

The JCB 370X heavy-duty excavator in the 35- to 40-ton sector has the ability to move 18 tons more material per gallon of fuel than competitive models and includes a Tier 4 Final 322 hp Cummins diesel engine. The 370X has a new JCB UX user interface, with 10-in. color touchscreen display and controls and increased hydraulic pressures. The Cummins L9 diesel engine is a 8.9-L, 6-cyl. with 322 hp available at 1,700 rpm, delivering power within a reduced operating rev range to increase fuel economy and reduce overall noise levels.

The Kawasaki tandem hydraulic pump operates with an increased 5,076 psi pressure, rising to 5,511 psi during power boost cycles. Operation gets a boost from the valve block and a hydraulically operated cooling fan with reversing function. A heavier counterweight contributes to added stability, while larger structures cope with the additional forces.

Increased service pipework diameters and raised hydraulic pressures result in more power at the dig end, which has been redesigned with cast boom foot and hydraulic ram pivot points for additional strength and longevity. The 370X is supplied with a 21 ft.-monoboom, with a choice of three arms up to 13 ft.

Komatsu PC210LCE Electric Excavator

The PC210LCE was created for construction businesses that need a high-performance machine. The excavator has 451 kWh of battery capacity and is designed for up to eight hours of operating time. The lithium-ion battery technology was developed by Proterra.

Designed to reduce operator fatigue with less noise, exhaust emissions and zero engine vibration, the PC210LCE is for use in urban areas and indoor environments. The low operating noise levels of the PC210LCE allow for nighttime construction work both indoors and out. Coming soon to North America, the PC210LCE supports Komatsu’s global sustainability targets of 50% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030 and complete carbon neutrality by 2050.​

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EXCAVATOR Products

Hitachi ZX210LC-7 Excavator John Deere SmartGrade 210G LC and 350G LC Excavators

The John Deere 210G LC and 350G LC Excavators feature factory installed and calibrated SmartGrade technology, increasing productivity and accuracy. These SmartGrade Excavators automate the boom and bucket functions for the operator, making it easier to achieve a smooth and accurate finish grade. Using GNSS positioning technology for accurate horizontal and vertical positioning, these machine control movements to a precise design target. This enables the operator to focus on controlling the arm function while the system raises and lowers the boom to maintain grade. In addition, SmartGrade Remote Support enables dealers to remotely monitor the machine, boosting uptime.

The 49,833-lb. Hitachi ZX210LC-7 excavator has a maximum dig depth of 21-ft., 11-in.

(6.67 m) and a bucket breakout force of 35,520-lbs. (158 kN). This machine is designed for earthmoving, material handling, demolition, underground excavation and more.

The TRIAS III hydraulic system provides response to all control inputs while minimizing hydraulic losses. A new arm roll-in metering control valve allows hydraulic pump power to be reduced when the arm is operated with a low load. When digging, the roll-in metering control valve reduces hydraulic pressure loss to the tank. An Isuzu engine pumps out 164 hp (122 kW). It uses a durable diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) aftertreatment solution to protect the environment. It features work modes to match available power to the jobsite conditions. An auto idle system with auto shutdown control prevents wasted fuel.

Caterpillar Next Gen 317 and 317 GC Excavators

The 40,200-lb. 317 and 38,100-lb. 317 GC provide 21-ft. maximum digging depths and 29-ft.

7-in. maximum reach at ground level. The 130-hp Cat C4.4 (317) and 119-hp Cat 3.6 (317 GC) engines feature Smart, ECO and Power (available on 317) engine operating modes.

Cat Grade with 2D automatically guides depth, slope and horizontal distance to grade through the touchscreen monitor. Cat Payload technology and Cat Remote Services standard on the 317. The 317 GC comes with the Cat comfort cab and the 317 offers the choice between deluxe and premium cab designs, with both offering standard rearview and right-hand sideview cameras.

Link-Belt 260 X4S Excavator

Link-Belt offers the 260 X4S excavator powered by a 177-hp Isuzu turbocharged diesel engine and features an operating weight of 57,300 lbs. Equipped with a 108-gallon fuel tank, the 260 X4S has a maximum dig depth of 22 ft., 8 in. The excavator features Custom Flow Balance, customizable joystick function buttons, several work modes and Trimbleready components. Operators can access a 10-in. display to view the status of components and the surrounding area during use. A dualband modem supports RemoteCARE communication for remote monitoring. The cab is equipped with a high-back seat with air, tilt and heat features. Adjustable pivoting armrests, headrests, seat height and lumbar support are also available for operators.

Volvo CE Next-Gen EC230 Electric Excavator

Volvo Construction Equipment has introduced the new-generation EC230 Electric excavator for North America. This machine from Volvo CE is designed to meet the growing demand for large, powerful equipment with reduced environmental impact. The 23-ton EC230 Electric is a general-purpose crawler excavator that first launched in early 2023. It has a breakout force of 33,500 lbf., a maximum digging reach of 32 ft., 7 in. and a maximum digging depth of 22 ft., 1 in. Early users have found that the EC230 Electric excavator reduces emissions. For instance, Skanska used it to load trucks of export material from an underground tunnel as part of a transit line renovation in Los Angeles. The machine reduced hourly carbon emissions by 66% over the 90-day test period. In a 90-day pilot with Sunbelt Rentals, the midsize electric excavator delivered an 80% carbon reduction rate in comparison to its diesel equivalent. The updated version of the EC230 Electric excavator offers an improved battery for longer runtime. It also has the updated cab and styling that is part of Volvo’s latest series of excavators.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment

January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

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FLEET MANAGEMENT

Leveraging Equipment Telematics to Meet Jobsite Sustainability Goals 6 ways data can help to reduce emissions, fossil fuel consumption and waste

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s more owners set sustainability goals for projects, practically approaching jobsite sustainability is becoming essential for contractors who seek to bid on, and win, these contracts. Data that allows companies to monitor and manage their construction equipment operations is key to making practical, cost-effective changes that reduce emissions, curb fossil fuel use and minimize waste. Equipment telematics, used in conjunction with a robust fleet management software platform, provides that data.

Some contractors may be familiar with using the GPS receivers on telematics devices to track the location of their equipment. Sensors on the same telematics devices offer a wealth of additional information, including data on equipment utilization, fuel consumption, engine performance and maintenance needs.

By harnessing the power of telematics, contractors can make datadriven decisions on how best to meet sustainability goals without sacrificing schedules or profits. Some strategies may even benefit the bottom line.

1. TRACKING GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is typically one of the sustainability goals of project owners. Since most construction equipment runs on petroleum fuel, which generates substantial carbon emissions as well as source pollutants, incorporating loweremission or zero-emission equipment into a fleet can be essential to meeting emissions goals.

Replacing an entire fleet with alternatively powered equipment, such as battery-electric equipment, isn’t realistic for most jobsites or most companies. Knowing which equipment generates the most emissions allows companies to prioritize fleet changes. With engine hours provided by telematics data, managers can calculate the fuel consumption of a machine, then estimate emissions

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United Rentals

based on the emissions factor specific to the fuel type used. Some advanced fleet management platforms offer an estimated emissions feature that performs the calculations for customers. In those platforms, users can run reports to estimate metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by specific piece of equipment or equipment category class, time period or jobsite. Fleet managers can leverage this visibility to reevaluate equipment with an eye toward cleaner options.

2. MONITORING AND REDUCING FUEL CONSUMPTION

Reducing the amount of fuel consumed by petroleum-fueled equipment is another critical step in controlling emissions. Managers can use data to identify behaviors such as excessive idling and aggressive

EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

operation of equipment that result in unnecessary fuel burns. Armed with these insights, they can take steps to address the issues, such as creating and enforcing an anti-idling policy and providing targeted operator training.

Companies can further curb fuel use with the help of equipment access management. Adding radio-frequency identification (RFID) badge readers to ignition locks helps ensure that only authorized workers can operate heavy equipment or turn on fuel-burning equipment such as generators and light towers. Telematics reveals when a machine was started and how long it ran; access management provides the additional detail of who turned it on. Understanding how and when fuel-burning equipment is used and by whom may allow managers to make fuel-saving adjustments to equipment fleets or jobsite operations.

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3. OPTIMIZING EQUIPMENT UTILIZATION

Keeping track of the equipment on a jobsite and how it is being utilized can be a challenge, but it’s essential to right-sizing fleets. Having more equipment than necessary not only increases costs but also wastes natural resources. Fleet management platforms allow companies to pinpoint the location of each piece of telematics-enabled equipment on a map and see how long it has been there. “Finding” machines that are sitting idle helps companies avoid purchasing or renting additional units.

Utilization reports generated in a fleet management platform identify underutilized equipment that could be sent to another jobsite or even sold.

If certain units are over-utilized, fleet managers may want to acquire more machines of that type to allow ample time for preventative maintenance.

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loads and low loads, which wastes a significant amount of fuel. It also causes unnecessary wear and tear on the generators, potentially making them run less efficiently.

When telematics devices are added to generators, managers can track loading in their fleet management platform. Configurable alerts notify them if the load remains too low over an extended period, which is a signal to downsize the generator.

Another solution to generator underloading is pairing the generator with a battery energy storage system (BESS). The generator charges the batteries using surplus power when it runs.

During lower-load periods, the BESS automatically shuts off the generator and provides power on its own. Leveraging a BESS allows for smaller generators and dramatically curtails generator run time, reducing diesel consumption and emissions.

United Rentals

4. MAKING DATA-DRIVEN BUY VS. RENT DECISIONS

When additional equipment is needed, utilization data can help companies make informed decisions about whether to purchase new equipment or rent. Often, renting is a more sustainable choice. It supports the sharing economy, which reduces the environmental impact associated with manufacturing new equipment.

Machines rented from large, reputable vendors tend to be relatively new and well maintained, which may put it a step ahead of older owned equipment

in terms of fuel efficiency and emissions.

Renting also allows companies to use the right equipment for the job so workers can complete tasks as efficiently as possible and without squandering fuel.

5. MONITORING GENERATOR LOADS

Contractors typically oversize generators to ensure sufficient energy for peak loads. As a result, generators run underloaded during normal

6. CUSTOMIZING EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

Properly maintained equipment runs more smoothly. Regularly tuning up engines, sharpening bucket teeth, checking tire inflation, greasing fittings, cleaning filters and replacing fluids can result in increased fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

Equipment manufacturers typically recommend preventative maintenance at set time intervals, such as six months or 12 months, but equipment may need maintenance more often or less often depending on its utilization.

π TAKING YOUR BUSINESS TO NEW HEIGHTS

Knowing which equipment generates the most emissions allows companies to prioritize fleet changes. With engine hours provided by telematics data, managers can calculate the fuel consumption of a machine, then estimate emissions based on the emissions factor specific to the fuel type used.”

Over-maintenance wastes machine oil and other resources, while undermaintenance impacts machine performance.

Engine hours provided by telematics enables companies to perform just-in-time maintenance.

Certain fleet management platforms support telematics-based service alerts to help keep maintenance on track.

If developing and sustaining a preventative maintenance program proves too arduous, companies can outsource the responsibility to a third-party provider with experience using telematics data to schedule and perform just-in-time maintenance.

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EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

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Many contractors already have access to telematics hardware in one way or another. Equipment manufacturers are including it in most of their latest equipment, though it needs to be activated, which requires a cellular subscription service. In addition, large, reputable rental equipment vendors include telematics devices in a large percentage of their rental fleet.

United Rentals

For companies that own older equipment that is not equipped with telematics, adding aftermarket devices is relatively easy; a rental equipment vendor that offers fleet maintenance can perform the installations.

Unlike most manufacturerinstalled devices, these devices work across equipment brands. Brandagnostic devices that communicate with a centralized fleet management platform solve the issue of relying on manufacturer-specific devices that communicate only with that brand’s software.

Leveraging telematics data to boost productivity and the sustainability of day-to-day operations can help companies be more competitive now and in the future.

Jaltest Diagnostics keeps your equipment running at peak performance

Read More eqtoday.co/ddmeyr1r

CONTACT US TODAY John Mongan is director, Advanced Solutions Group, Telematics Support at United Rentals.

Visit unitedrentals.com.

(833) 222 SCAN January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

35

LIFT EQUIPMENT

Electric MEWPs on the Rise Today’s scissor lift offerings bring lower costs, greater efficiency while lessening noise and air pollution

W

hile mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs) come in many forms, today’s electric scissor lift equipment offerings are changing the game.

“In the past, MEWPs were powered by the biggest, most powerful internal combustion (IC) engines an individual equipment model could support,” pointed out Bob Begley, director of product management, scissor lifts, JLG. Begley noted contractors now seek more environmentally friendly options when and where they make sense.

POWER OPTIONS

Three power distribution systems used in powered lift equipment include hydraulic, hybrid (electric and hydraulic), and all electric, noted Begley. “Hydraulic systems take electrical energy from the batteries and convert it to hydraulic flow to perform lift, drive and steer functions,” Begley noted. “While hydraulic machines typically cost less to purchase or rent, they can be less efficient and have more moving parts and are more expensive to operate compared to electric drive machines.”

The hybrid (electric plus hydraulic drive) systems have batteries directly linked to motors on the drive wheels, making them more efficient overall, Begley pointed out.

“These systems require less hydraulic oil since they are only performing lift and steer functions, which helps to reduce issues with oil viscosity, making them better suited for colder environments,” he added.

“Additionally, electric drive lifts significantly reduce the number of leak points because they reduce the number of hoses, fittings, manifolds and other components critical to their hydraulic counterparts. Electric drive systems also boast increased battery life and fewer needed replacement parts.” All electric drive systems replace hydraulics completely and eliminate leak points altogether, Begley noted.

BATTERY IMPROVEMENTS

“Traditionally, our machines have been equipped with flooded lead acid (FLA) batteries or IC engines where the maintenance costs are heavy for customers,” Begley added.

36

EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

Haulotte

 The fully electric architecture on today’s electric scissor lifts offers the same drive performance of an internal combustion diesel machine.

LIFT EQUIPMENT

“But all electric machines have highly efficient systems. The power required to run these machines is cut by more than 40%. This opens the door to lithium-ion battery technology and all electric machines.”

FLA batteries have been around for quite some time, Begley said, adding “these types of batteries have relatively low-energy density, are slower to charge, require more ongoing maintenance, but are less costly than other battery types.”

Lithium-ion batteries have high-

energy density, faster recharging cycles and require less ongoing maintenance but are higher priced, he added.

“With electrification gaining momentum across the access industry, we anticipate the cost of lithium-ion battery technology to come down over time as volumes increase,” he added.

Lithium-ion batteries provide some significant performance features over lead-acid batteries that add a lot of value — such as quick charging — to the MEWP market, Begley pointed out.

“Most hydraulic-drive as well as some electric-drive scissor lifts on the market have a battery charge that lasts just a single shift and takes eight to 10 hours to completely charge,” Begley said. “Some scissor lifts powered by a lithium-ion battery — or multiple li-ion batteries — can go from not charged to fully charged in much less time.”

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Lithium-ion battery technology offers opportunity charging.

For example, it only takes 3.5 hours for the single lithium-ion powered JLG DaVinci lift to fully charge with its standard 650W charger. With an optional 900W charger, it fully charges in 2.5 hours.

“With lithium-ion batteries, you also eliminate the need to water the batteries, one of the most common causes of premature battery failure,” said Begley. “Additionally, lithiumion batteries eliminate the risk of acid spills and outgassing concerns, making them better suited for work completed in environmentally sensitive areas like clean rooms, data centers and hospitals.”

Because electricpowered scissor lifts can be used in both on-slab and offslab indoors and in outdoor applications, the technology for this type of electric equipment has continued to advance, potential uses have increased in the last few years, largely because they can be used in areas where stringent environmental restrictions exist, said Begley.

Other applications seeing an increased demand for electric scissor lifts include warehouse construction and operation, which Begley attributes to JLG the growth of online shopping.

For rental applications, “it is important to think about how these machines will be charged by operators,” Begley pointed out.

“The big gap in the ecosystem is the charging infrastructure, especially on early-stage construction sites where power is often limited.”

Understanding how long a machine needs to run each day to complete the work may impact the type of lifts a rental company chooses, Begley said.

ELECTRIC MEWP BENEFITS

Baptiste Roland, Haulotte product marketing manager, noted key beneficial features of Haulotte’s PULSEO range of electric scissor lifts include quiet operations, zero emissions and a rechargeable battery with autonomy depending on intensity of use.

EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

They can be used indoors or outdoors, are environmentally friendly, have fewer mechanical components, ease of maintenance and reduced operating costs.

Roland added limitations include a limited autonomy with six to eight hours of continuous use and a relatively long recharging time.

The performance of a lithium-ion operated machine is equal to that of a conventional diesel-powered machine, Begley said, adding “we anticipate lithium-ion batteries will become more affordable and the technology will become more accessible; therefore, there will be less need and demand for engine-powered models.”

More cities and companies are taking steps to reduce their environmental footprint, noted Roland. As such, the market has expanded with more options.

With a 100% electric design, the PULSEO scissor lifts range (HS15 E and PRO and HS18 E and PRO or MAX) operates with no harmful emissions, he adds.

“They offer a clean alternative suited to any situation, such as Low Emission Zones or green construction sites,” Roland said. “Available with non-marking tires, they can also be used indoors on sensitive surfaces without leaving a trace. The latest PULSEO machines operate in silence (acoustic profile <60 dB in electric mode). They are perfect for work in low-noise areas or public places without bothering people nearby.”

PULSEO scissors are designed to maximize battery life and optimize power consumption.

The 48V battery pack delivers the range necessary for a full day of work, and three charging solutions adapt to the on-site infrastructure: ˜ The primary charger recharges the batteries at the end of the shift from any standard 110-230V single phase electrical network. ˜ An optional three-phase accelerated charger ensures an 80% charge in three hours. ˜ The PULSEO scissors can be equipped with a 5.5kW removable and interchangeable range extender to rapidly recharge the batteries while the machine remains fully operational. One range extender can be used on different machine of the range.

JLG’s DaVinci AE1932 is a fully electric scissor lift with no hydraulic components. Its electric driveline components contribute to a 70% decrease in power consumption. Its single lithium-ion battery is expected to last 10 years, Begley said.

JLG’s hydraulic-drive R electric scissor lifts have fewer parts and an all-steel swing-out component tray, said Begley, adding their compact dimensions are ideal for confined spaces. The improved battery charger

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reduces guesswork by informing users how the batteries perform.

JLG’s electric-drive ES electric scissor lifts are designed to offer reduced charging time and longer runtime. Including two lightweight models — ideal for data centers and sensitive floors — JLG offers options with indoor-only and indoor/outdoor capabilities. Full proportional controls come standard.

Battery-powered with an electric drive and AC motor, JLG electricpowered rough terrain scissor lifts are available in four models ranging in platform heights from 26 feet to 47 feet; each model is capable of driving at full height.

Genie recently announced a new design for its core slab scissor lift product line to focus on improved performance and lowered total cost of ownership for Next-Generation Genie GS-1932, GS-2632, GS-3232, GS-2646, GS-3246 and GS-4046 scissor lifts.

The MEWPs’ curved linkage design focuses on reduced machine weight, enabling Genie to use rightsized components including batteries, drive motors and other electrical components.

CHARGING AND MAINTENANCE

With newer lithium-ion batteries, capacity is consistent, and they can be used in temperatures varying from 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 104 degrees F Fahrenheit, Begley pointed out.

All JLG electric machines have fully independent battery monitoring systems monitoring cell temperature and cell voltages, providing data regarding the state of charge and useable life left in terms of kWh or cycles.

“When it comes to charging, these highly efficient machines have lowered power usage, which leads to lower charging times,” said Begley.

“This also enables the opportunity for new technology such as quick charging, providing useable power to the machines in a reasonably short period when batteries are completely dead.”

The PULSEO models integrate the Haulotte Activ’Energy Management System, which combines a smart charger with a centralized water refilling system.

According to Begley, all-electric machines are essentially maintenancefree compared to diesel engines, which he says, will continue to play a role in conversations with fleet owners as maintenance costs for diesel engines go up because of the diesel particulate filters they require.

Read More eqtoday.co/scissor Carol Brzozowski is a freelance writer for Equipment Today.

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LIFT EQUIPMENT Products

Read More eqtoday.co/liftequip

Skyjack SJ3213 Micro Scissor Lift

Featuring quiet electric drive, this machine combines durability and serviceability, as well as enables accessibility in tight spaces. Fully proportional drive and lift controls offer controllability and torque, while variable speed brushless AC electric front wheel drive supports duty cycles. With over 25% gradeability, operators can climb loading ramps in jobsites. The machine features wide non-marking tires with low ground pressures to help protect finished flooring. Swingout trays provide straightforward access to service components in one location. Skyjack’s standard color-coded and numbered wiring now combines with an externally visible onboard diagnostic system. This provides real-time data and machine faults (written in plain and simple language) without the need to open service trays. No plug-in calibration is necessary for day-to-day troubleshooting, including load sensing information.

The new CAN-bus based control system provides data points for telematics integration. Skyjack has introduced its ECO mark to support customers by providing products that deliver environmental performance and longterm sustainability. Such features include: • 16% operational carbon saving compared to previous model • Zero emissions • 90% recyclable (by weight) • Optional ECOtray leak containment • Approved for use with biodegradable hydraulic oil

LiuGong S1930DE Mobile Elevated Work Platform Pettibone AS1932E Scissor Lift Genie Lithium-Ion Battery Powered GS E-Drive

Genie GS E-Drive Lithium-Ion scissor lifts were developed to help equipment owners and jobsites reduce emissions and reach sustainability goals, while also lowering the total cost of ownership. For equipment owners, Genie Lithium-Ion batteries, which were specifically designed for mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs), are a zero-maintenance choice. A fully sealed IP67 housing protects the battery from water and dust contamination.

And, based on extensive testing, Genie Lithium-Ion batteries have an expected lifespan of about 10 years, making it the only battery needed for the normal life of the lift. Genie Lithium-Ion batteries also are certified by the independent certification organization Underwriters Laboratory (UL) against fire, electric shock and explosion. On the jobsite, Genie GS Lithium-Ion E-Drive scissor lifts can be fully recharged in just four hours —33% faster than a standard FLA battery.

Because partial charges won’t damage the battery, operators can plug in the machine during breaks or over lunch to add to the battery’s capacity. E-Drive LithiumIon scissor lifts also were designed for productivity in extreme temperatures, from 120 degrees Fahrenheit to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. In cold environments, built-in heaters maintain an optimal battery temperature, even when the scissor lift is stationary. This allows the operator to work continuously, without taking breaks to warm up the battery — a real productivity benefit. Because many rental companies look to give older equipment a second life on the used equipment market, Genie Lithium-Ion powered scissor lifts can be retrofitted with FLA batteries when the unit reaches the end of its useful life in a fleet.

Hy-Brid Lifts ZT-1630

The ZT-1630 is designed for construction, facility maintenance and more. The ZT-1630 features a 16-ft. platform height and a working height of 22 ft. The ZT-1630’s point-and-go style drive allows movement in confined spaces and the proportional controls provide feather-like control for lift positioning and jobsite mobility. The ZT Series of lifts features a compact size, large work platform and high lift capacity. It also includes a built-in tool tray and allows for access to sensitive flooring. The scissor stack supports the weight of the platform with four points of contact while mast lifts are supported by only one point of contact. All Hy-Brid Lifts are heavy-duty with low wheel loads that allow users to maneuver the machines over delicate floors.

40

EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

The ANSI A92.20-compliant AS1932E electric scissor lift provides a reliable solution for safely working at height in indoor or outdoor applications.

• Maximum work height of 25.6 ft. and platform capacity of 510 lbs.

• Includes universal drive control box with motion alarm and LED screen • Features include 3-ft. platform extension with smooth foot pedal control, fold-in guard rails and large scissor arms • Tilt sensor automatically stops operation if the tilt level exceeds 3 degrees for front/back incline or decline or 1.5 degrees for left to right tilting • Load-sensing system with pressure transducer ceases all functions if machine’s weight limit is exceeded

Snorkel S3013 MINI Electric Scissor Lift

This lithiumpowered, electric drive scissor lift can fit through a standard doorway during use for indoor and outdoor worksites.

Equipped with an extendable platform as standard, the electric lift features a 5-in. inside turning radius and 600-lb. maximum platform capacity. This machine can support two people or one person and materials. The S3013 MINI offers a maximum working height of 19 ft.

Standard features include non-marking tires, swing-out service trays, motion alarm, descent alarm, integrated battery charger, flashing amber strobe light and aluminum control box. On-board diagnostics display and hour meter are available on the lift for status monitoring.

Transporting around jobsites is facilitated by crane and forklift points.

LiuGong offers the S1930DE Mobile Elevated Work Platform for vertical lifting, hard-to-reach equipment installation or maintenance, inspections and transport on construction sites. This scissor lift can reach a maximum working height of 26 ft. with a working load of 220 lbs. in an extended position, enabling workers to hold and use equipment on the platform during use. Measuring 64.6 in. (length), the platform is designed to host two workers. Heavy-duty rails provide safety and guidance on the platform.

It takes about 25 seconds to raise the platform to its maximum working height.

The S1930DE features a maximum speed of 2.5 mph in a stowed position, powered by a 1-hp drive motor.

Haulotte COMPACT 2032 E Electric Scissor Lift

Haulotte offers the COMPACT 2032 E electric scissor lift.

Equipped with four wheels at the base, this machine provides mobility around work areas. A safety yellow finish ensures visibility in busy facilities.

The scissor lift has a maximum working height of 25 ft., 8 in.

Features: • Impact-proof counterweight with integrated ladder protection, AC motors and charger plug • Reinforced guardrails with additional vertical stile for durability • Foldable guardrails, lateral and longitudinal forklift pockets • In and out usage with full height driving and no-load restriction • Proportional movements for steady driving (AC motors) • Ergonomic upper control box with grab handle and speed selector • Haulotte Activ’Energy Management for battery care • On-board and remote settings, as well as diagnostic tools with Haulotte Diag, Haulotte Activ’Screen and Sherpal telematics solution

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment

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Understanding

Maintenance Philosophy How reliability-centered maintenance, seasonal product strategy and oil analysis play into the success of your operations

A

s the seasons turn, we are often reminded of several routine maintenance activities which accompany the changing weather patterns.

Around the house these include things like rolling back the clocks for daylight saving time, cleaning gutters and laundry vents, and changing batteries in smoke detectors. On the jobsite, a similar cadence of routine maintenance is also triggered for heavy equipment maintenance managers preparing for the upcoming season. Heavy equipment assets are the backbone of many construction and mining companies, and unplanned downtime can have a drastic impact on a business’ bottom line. Seasonal turnover is a great time to evaluate your company’s maintenance philosophy and consider if there is a need to refocus on reliability-centered maintenance, also known as proactive maintenance.

Unlike reactive maintenance (responding to issues as they arise) or preventative maintenance (preempting issues by frequent scheduled maintenance and downtime), proactive maintenance is based on the principle that a piece of equipment or component should never have the same failure mode twice. It combines elements of each reactive, preventative and predictive maintenance (collecting operational data and modeling or predicting the needed time for maintenance based on operating and equipment condition) to maximize equipment reliability and uptime. When properly applied, proactive maintenance focuses on identifying root causes of equipment downtime and putting procedures and maintenance schedules in place to minimize it.

Often, maintenance strategies vary within a given fleet, and may even be asset specific; however, a robust proactive maintenance program typically includes less than 10% reactive maintenance, 25% to 35% preventative maintenance, and 45% to 55% predictive maintenance.

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As with most heavy equipment assets, lubricants or other operating fluid selections and application are important maintenance items that can have a significant impact to equipment reliability and uptime. Unfortunately, proper lubricant selection and application are not always well understood or comprehended as a critical element of proactive maintenance strategies. This is further compounded by the complexities of managing an equipment fleet which can operate at seasonal extremes.

SEASONAL PROACTIVE MAINTENANCE PLANNING

All seasonal proactive maintenance should begin with establishing the state of the fleet and critical equipment or maintenance issues, which would prevent a successful season of operation. Critical items should be addressed quickly to allow the focus on the preventative and predictive dimensions of a proactive maintenance strategy. Ideally, a robust proactive maintenance plan includes planned downtime for all assets which require seasonal fluid and filter changes.

With reactive maintenance complete, a robust seasonal proactive maintenance strategy requires that all lubricants and greases in the equipment, including engine oil, transmission fluids, hydraulic fluids, gear oils, should be evaluated for suitability for the seasonal operating conditions. While it is always best practice to follow the recommendations of your equipment manufacturer, consideration of the suitability of a fluid’s viscosity classification can help avoid unplanned downtime, slow startups, or premature wear and tear on equipment.

For example, in cold environments lubricants will increase in viscosity or thicken when equipment is left idle for prolonged periods of time. This could lead to start up issues such as oil starvation.

EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

Additionally, the fluid may take longer to reach operating temperatures or may not achieve the same operating temperature typically seen in warmer months. This could lead to a higher-than-expected viscosity, which will affect the fluid’s energy efficiency or even its ability to flow to critical lubrication points.

If the viscosity is too high and oil starvation occurs, undue wear and tear can take your equipment out of service for good.

In the case of motor oils used during winter months, if your heavy equipment typically recommends a 15W-40 diesel motor oil, a maintenance manager may consider the suitability of 10W-30 or 5W-40 viscosity grade to their application.

The latter have improved low temperature viscosity performance that will aid in preventing start up issues, while providing the same level of protection.

In the case of hydraulic fluids, if your heavy equipment typically uses an ISO 46 hydraulic fluid, consider if an ISO 32 or a multi-viscosity hydraulic fluid with a high viscosity Index would be better suited for the winter.

In many cases the same viscosity at operating temperature can be achieved provided the fleet is monitoring the fluid during operation and adjusting for any observed changes.

CONVENTIONAL VS. SYNTHETIC FLUIDS

There are stalwarts on both sides of the conventional versus synthetic debate, and both have their experience to back them up. Modern lubrication programs have room for both. It’s true that typically conventional lubricants are often less expensive than their synthetic cousins, and in many cases can deliver comparable performance in several performance categories. However, many major original equipment manufacturers either recommend or require synthetic oils and other fluids to be used in modern heavy equipment for warranty coverage, and to achieve the

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rated energy efficiency and oil drain potential offered by the equipment.

Often synthetic oils are capable of extended oil drain intervals.

This is because of their higher natural oxidative stability relative to conventional oils. They can be less prone to oxidative breakdown and capable of longer, more severe operating conditions. This often leads to better resistance to developing sludge and deposits.

Synthetic oils also have better viscosity-temperature behavior and maintain a more consistent viscosity over a wider temperature range. This is described by a property called the viscosity index (VI), where a higher number indicates a slower rate of viscosity change as the temperature changes. For winter application, higher VI oils will not thicken as quickly as the temperature gets colder, allowing them to better maintain operating viscosity than conventional oils. Synthetics also tend to have more waxes removed or refined out of them which improves properties like pour point and low temperature flow.

OIL ANALYSIS SUPPORTS PROACTIVE MAINTENANCE

Proactive maintenance helps enable maximum value creation from your assets, which includes maximizing production, but also minimizing operating costs. Lubricant analysis can offer tremendous insights into equipment condition as well as fluid service life. Lubricants are expensive components of a mechanical system, and often oil drains are conservative because they are inexpensive relative to replacement of the mechanical component. By sampling in-service fluids and analyzing them for properties such as viscosity, wear metals, contamination and oxidative life, an optimized fluid service interval can be implemented, and better insights can be fed into predictive maintenance models to further improve proactive maintenance strategies on your assets.

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Many lubricant providers and third-party laboratories offer lubricant and grease analysis as a service for fleets. If your company is not engaged in fluid condition monitoring and predictive maintenance, you could be leaving a lot of value on the table.

In closing, it is important to remember that no equipment is 100% reliable 100% of the time. Unplanned downtime will always be lurking, waiting for unexpected circumstances to cause an equipment failure or issue.

While maintenance managers have a lot to consider when developing and refining their seasonal maintenance programs, shifting to a reliabilitycentered maintenance philosophy can position a company to get the most out of their valuable investments.

Read More eqtoday.co/enginelub

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Dr. Raymond Burns is a certified lubrication specialist and director of research and development at Lucas Oil Products.

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January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

43

CONSTRUCTION CONNECTIVITY | By Kathy Wells, Editor-in-Chief, Equipment Today

TRIMBLE TACKLES TECH

& Autonomy Solutions Inside developments from Trimble Dimensions 2024 and a look at tomorrow’s equipment tech integrations

T

rimble Dimensions 2024, held Nov. 11-13, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada, is an annual conference organized by software, hardware and services company Trimble, bringing together professionals across the geospatial, construction, agriculture and transportation industries. The three-day event featured keynote presentations, hands-on training, networking opportunities and exhibits showcasing the latest innovations and solutions in construction technology and software. This year’s installment also featured a sizeable off-site setup for equipment operation and technology in the field.

With a record-breaking 7,000 attendees and more than 800 educational sessions, the event is aimed at supporting industry professionals’ desire to better understand the future, especially with regard to technology applications in the real world of construction.

The 2024 theme, “New, Next, Now,” focused on the company’s vision for the future, including expanding connected capabilities, technology integrations, new collaborations and partnerships, and a wealth of

44

IRONMARKETS

cutting-edge technologies, all pointed toward its goal of solving problems in the construction industry.

Alongside a busy schedule of events and future-facing technology releases throughout the event, Trimble made several major announcements, including news about the extension of its longstanding joint venture (JV) with Caterpillar, the introduction of Trimble’s Siteworks Machine Guidance Module for compact track loaders, and more.

TRIMBLE & CATERPILLAR JV

The Trimble/Caterpillar JV expansion is aimed at enhancing interoperability, innovation and adoption in construction technology. According to Trimble executives, key drivers include growth, market acceleration and technology advancements. The partnership, which is now in its fourth iteration, focuses on integration across different systems and workflows, enabling customers to use products across various infrastructure. Trimble notes, “Innovations like the chassismount system and automated excavation have improved efficiency and accuracy. The new agreement also includes a distribution model to

EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

extend Trimble’s technology reach and a 3D grade-ready factory option for Caterpillar machines, offering flexibility in activation and ownership.

The goal is to support both skilled and non-skilled operators, with a focus on future-proofing technology and maintaining customer preferences.”

SITEWORKS MACHINE GUIDANCE MODULE FOR COMPACT TRACK LOADERS

Trimble announced Siteworks Machine Guidance is now available on compact track loader buckets. The news, which marks the first new machine type for the Siteworks Machine Guidance Module since it was introduced for excavators in 2023, is Trimble’s first machine guidance solution designed for compact track loader buckets, providing one solution for layout, grading and leveling. Users can move the system among multiple machines and jobsites, and also employ their existing technology on-machine easily by adding a machine kit and the Siteworks software module. Trimble shared, “The Siteworks Machine Guidance system includes the Trimble SPS986 or Trimble R780 GNSS Smart Antenna with tilt compensation and the Trimble ProPoint positioning

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engine, and any bring-your-own-device or Trimble field tablet that supports the Siteworks software. The module enables contractors to use Siteworks off the machine to design, measure and lay out projects. Contractors can then transfer the GNSS receiver and field tablet from the pole to the compact track loader or excavator to provide in-cab, 3D machine guidance and grade checking capabilities without the need for a surveyor.”

AUTONOMY AND AI

Throughout the week, Trimble executives encouraged discussion about the future of autonomy and AI, offering fresh outlooks and insights. “Our institutional view on autonomy is: it’s a series of progressive automation,” said Trimble President CEO Rob Painter. “We’re not institutional believers that we’re going to wake up one day and have Level 5 autonomy — machine control guidance is emerging at Level 1 and Level 2,” he said. Painter pointed out that the company, which has been developing IoT, autonomy and AI solutions for decades, recognizes that not every task on a jobsite is fit to be completed autonomously, noting that many of

its latest autonomous innovations are currently in beta testing with customers. The technology, which is not yet available to the market, is one step in a longer journey to find which construction challenges are best suited to be solved with autonomy.

Trimble is now testing an autonomous excavator and compactor, both of which were in action at the off-site location throughout the event (pictured on page 44). Painter says the company is essentially working backward to pinpoint customer problems and opportunities for automation, and working to drive efficiency, which in turn becomes the path toward autonomy. For instance, another potential opportunity might be in linear trenching applications.

Ian Welch, director of engineering, autonomous solutions at Trimble, says the bigger focus is on how to get more machine control onto more machine types and bring more types of assistive technologies to operators.

“How do we take [these] learnings and technologies and spin them into actual products we can use today?” said Welch. “One example is steering control for autonomy. We put steering control in compactors as a product called Autosteer — it’s also in earthmoving equipment, bulldozers and dozers. The idea is to better utilize that equipment to get a higher return, both with more accuracy and more efficiency,” said Welch, who notes the ultimate aim is to provide solutions that help contractors run their businesses better. “[Going] back to the compactor example: It’s a pretty basic machine, but how do you do exactly what you need to do, no more, no less? We’re working on software that allows you to plan exactly where that machine should go to give you perfect overlap,” said Welch. The same is true for road construction applications, where rolling out dirt or asphalt, minimizing overlap and optimizing precision are critical to project success.

Geoffrey Kirk, product manager, autonomy and assist at Trimble, notes that Trimble today is investing in solutions to help make its products better for autonomy tomorrow.

“We are on a journey to autonomy,” said Kirk, “[We are] taking what we learn from making a machine fully autonomous, such as [an] excavator, and we’re leveraging that information and those learnings to make assistive products available sooner.”

Kirk points out that developing fully autonomous machines means fully understanding what a particular workflow might demand.

“We want to help you run your site better, interacting with the equipment, the geospatial model, the design, so we can optimize what you’re doing — that’s a key part for us,” said Kirk.

According to Kirk, adding more machines and learning from autonomous flows within a mixed fleet is also important. He says today, Trimble supports compactors

and excavators, but over time, it will add more machines to the autonomous marketplace.

Optimization is key, according to Kirk, who is finding that operators want the quality improvements and the production improvements that come with fully automated systems, however, they’re often not quite ready for the idea of full autonomy.

“We will be bringing out these assistive systems in whatever place a customer wants, and at whatever level of autonomy they’re ready for ... to bring those improvements in productivity out into those markets sooner.”

Before the market is able to realize a fully autonomous future, Welch says there are a few priorities earmarked for Trimble along the way. “We look at autonomy as a test bed, first to learn and try new things, then to develop those technologies into products,” said Welch.

“So the journey to get there will be more automation, more automation, more automation, and, eventually, we’ll get to a point where we will have automated all these tasks, and the maturity of the perception system software will have graduated to a point. Then, we’ll come together and be ready for a fully autonomous [future].” For now, he says, the approach is, “How do we provide value to people sitting in the machine to do their job today?”

AUTONOMY AND ADOPTION

On the subject of technology adoption, Welch notes there are typically two camps. “One camp is: We’re all in, we love it. And the other is: I can do it better than the machine can,” said Welch. “In order to win people over, you have to show them.”

The autonomous compactor, while seemingly basic, is one such example of proving value in the technology. Welch says being able to provide performance data — hitting on efficiency and precision — the idea becomes a more of a reality to some of the technology or autonomy holdouts.

“If the [autonomous] compactor does it 10% or 20% faster than an operator, they can start to see [the possibilities],” said Welch.

Autonomy, while important, is not the company’s only focus. “AI is big to Trimble right now,” says Welch. “How can we make even small improvements? If I get a 5% to 10% improvement by using AI, that’s real money that people care about,” Welch said, which ultimately creates more investment and interest in it.

Alongside common concerns about safety, Welch says the No. 1 challenge for autonomous adoption comes down to an issue of trust. “How do I know it’s doing the right thing?” Much like today’s robot vacuums, end users may wonder whether the device is on the right path to accomplish the task it set out to complete.

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 The Warthog robot is being tested to autonomously move around, stop, scan and provide progress updates and data to field operations.

IRONMARKETS

“It takes a day or two to realize you don’t actually care how it did it, because you didn’t have to do it,” said Welch. “That will be the big quantum leap on some of these things. It might not be how you would do it, but did it do the job efficiently?”

On the safety side of site operations, Welch says end users will encounter the same curiosity: How do we know that’s where we need the machine to be? Welch notes that regulatory representatives have proven through engineering controls and practices that the technology is, in fact, safe, however, doubt may still linger. “If we can take some of this technology and slowly introduce it to contractors and operators, over time, they will naturally get more comfortable with it, so, with time, they can begin to trust it.”

A LOOK AT THE FUTURE

According to Painter, a fully autonomous world is possible, but that point is further down the road.

“I think it’ll be further than what prognosticators will tell us,” he said.

“That autonomous side of autonomous equipment needs a brain. What work are you going to do? How are the machines all coordinating? When are you going to refuel? When are you going to recharge? You need a work plan. All the things [Trimble is] doing, we see them as the brain.”

When it comes to the future of autonomy, Welch says we are on our way. “I always look at automotive leading indicator,” said Welch. “[The prediction has] always been ‘five years.’ And the next year, it’s ‘five more years,’ the next year, so on.” said Welch. “I think we will see simple machines, like either asphalt rollers or compactors, be automated first,” which he says could take place potentially within the next 10 years.

“We can show value today, but the big leap [for potential end users] is going from ‘person in the cab’ to ‘no person in the cab,’ because we have all these sensors, perception sensors, cameras, LiDAR, radars, etc., and they work well, but they have to be guaranteed to work in a functionally safe manner.” And as industry regulations and standards develop around autonomous technologies, all parties are aiming to keep up and figure out how that might unfold.

Although it doesn’t appear that the jobsite will be filled with empty cabs tomorrow, there is a genuine concern that such technology will keep operators out of a job. However, Welch says the opposite is true. Right now, autonomous technology needs skilled operators’ expertise to learn from.

“We’re not going to punch some keys on a keyboard and figure it out in 10 minutes. There is a journey we need to take to get there,” said Welch.

“How can we partner with operators and what is the best way to do this operation? Or why do you do it this way? Or what can you teach us about this? We actually want to work with [operators] to figure out how to do it.

It’ll be a long time before anything replaces field operators,” said Welch.

According to Welch, one of the most exciting parts of being on the path to automation is the optimization of tasks on the jobsite. “Yes, we have autonomy, and, yes, we will get [to a fully autonomous future] eventually, but what can we accomplish along the way? And I think that is optimizing the things people do every day,” said Welch. “It seems pretty simple, but if technology can make you 2%, 3%, 5% better, that’s a real improvement.”

Read More eqtoday.co/24dimensions

January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

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Defining ‘Five Stars’ in the Construction Industry DENNIS HOWARD

VP, CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT DIVISION, RDO EQUIPMENT

How Five Star Civil Construction’s managing partners built a construction legacy through fleet management software, rental equipment and relationships

W

hat’s the first thing we all do in a new city? Search Google or Yelp for places to eat. Then, we ask a few folks to see if the “five-star reviews” translate into meaningful experiences.

In industries like ours, delivering world-class service every day is not only the norm, but the entry price for civil and residential contracting.

In a state like Texas, where demand for development and housing only continues to grow, one company in its first few years of business has embraced machine monitoring to optimize their team’s performance to serve their customers — and keep earning those five-star reviews.

I met with the Five Star Civil Construction while they worked on a residential jobsite in the Texas Hill Country, a short drive from Austin.

I spoke with two of Five Star Civil’s managing partners, Matt Gillum and Jared Davis, about how they started.

“We were at the same company for a few years,” Davis explained. “We kind of found each other as we worked our way up to the vice president level.”

Davis, like the other five managing partners at Five Star, has been in construction for most of his life. He said the partners recognized their shared ambition and began to think about how they could work together.

In early 2022, the managing partners founded their own construction company, which aligned a partnership mindset to build a construction legacy committed to relationships and excellence. Now entering its third year of business, the multifaceted

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 Despite the numerous challenges with starting a new contracting business in recent years, Five Star Civil managing partners have grown their team, skills and revenue by carving out site clearing and grading, plus utility installation, as their “bread and butter.”

Five Star Civil Construction

civil construction company provides turnkey construction services with 100-plus team members.

Despite the numerous challenges with starting a new contracting business in recent years — skilled labor shortages, changes in building

EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

costs and higher-than-average interest rates — Five Star Civil managing partners have grown their team, skills and revenue by carving out site clearing and grading, plus utility installation, as their “bread and butter.”

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The following are a few steps Five Star Civil team members shared when we discussed how they optimized their performance, chasing down that fivestar customer experience their name implies during their few years of business.

 John Deere 624 P-Tier Wheel Loader and 350 P-Tier Excavator working on a jobsite.

Five Star Civil Construction

Five Star Civil Construction

1. DEFINE COMPANY VALUES, THEN ACT

Gillum, who has been working with “iron” for most of his life in Texas, said Five Star grows its business based on its values.

“In this office and as a company, we are developing a culture based on honesty, relationships and excellence,” Gillum said. “We come together as one.”

Davis, also a veteran of the industry, echoes this — all five managing partners recognized their common goals while they were at another company well before 2022.

“We want to be honest from start to finish, from the bids to completing the job,” Davis said.

“All of us managing partners have kids, so we want to build things that last.”

With their company values clear, they turned to face their first challenge: building their equipment fleet. That’s when Gillum remembered an acquaintance he met through his wife earlier in his career: Laurie Bush, a rental equipment professional at RDO Equipment Co. “Communication is key for us,” Davis said. “We decided we wanted to work with others who shared our values of transparency, urgency and commitment to excellence.”

Davis said one of their vast challenges was acquiring equipment, without exceeding the managing partners’ investment, so they could complete jobs on time.

2. BUILD EQUITY THROUGH RENTAL EQUIPMENT

Davis explained that even in 2022, the equipment industry was still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, so sourcing the right

machine at a price that would fit their budget was difficult, to say the least.

Based on jobs booked, Five Star Civil approached Bush and discussed their options.

“We developed a plan where they could secure several excavators and wheel loaders as rental purchase options (RPO) while purchasing compact multipurpose machines like skid steers,” Bush said.

RPOs are customizable purchase options for heavy machinery that help contractors optimize operational flexibility while building equity toward an eventual equipment purchase.

Many contractors, like Five Star, have opted for RPOs during the last few years. Davis explained one aspect of RPOs that reveals why rental equipment helps contractors build a fleet over time.

“Renting equipment allowed us to try out the sizes of excavators and wheel loaders we wanted as we steadily increased our number of jobsites,” Davis said. “Then if we liked the machine at the end of our rental contract, we could apply some of what we paid to purchase it.”

3. OPTIMIZE EVERY JOB WITH A FLEET MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

A fleet management system (FMS) monitors each machine’s performance by collecting hours, fuel burn, and, at times, grade level information, depending on the type of machine or FMS. “We are a very productionfocused company, tracking what we put in for hours, fuel, building supplies, and tracking what we put out,” Davis said. The Five Star Civil Team uses John Deere Operations Center and JDLink Connectivity to monitor production hours.

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They schedule downtime so their service technician can complete regular maintenance on vital machines and provide backup rental machines if necessary.

“Before working with RDO, we never had a true tracking system,” Gillum said. “With JDLink and the Operations Center, we can track in-depth data daily and run reports to monitor output.”

With this data from their jobsite, Davis said he can improve his ability to make critical business decisions, such as more accurately bidding on the next job or switching out an underperforming machine if necessary.

4. COMPARE MACHINE PERFORMANCE, SELECT THE RIGHT SIZE Perhaps the biggest insight Five Star gained from their partnership with Bush and their connected machines: Use the most efficient machine size.

“When we track, we can compare a larger machine to a smaller machine; we compare its output versus its fuel burn rate,” Gillum said.

Besides comparing machines production versus fuel burn, Five Star Civil’s Maintenance Manager Ashley Lovejoy partnered with a regional equipment store and Joe Olivas a customer service advisor at RDO, to schedule regular maintenance and replace rental machines when necessary.

5. PROTECT UPTIME BY CHOOSING A SERVICE PROVIDER Trevon Morins, one of Five Star Civil’s fleet managers working

simultaneously across over 20 jobsites, talks with a technician or a customer service advisor weekly.

“Through talking to Joe Olivas from RDO and a remote support team, we can catch possible issues before they occur,” he said. “Rental machines stay up and running or are replaced so that we can keep our jobsite’s production on schedule.”

Lovejoy said the reporting from the Operations Center and readily available service from a trusted equipment dealer keep their machines running on more than 20 jobsites.

Lovejoy explained that being in conversation with a service technician or customer service advisor helps the Five Star team troubleshoot issues whenever necessary.

As I’ve shared other jobsite conversations, one thing has come up again and again: Growing a business in a demanding market requires a reliable partner. The Five Star Civil team continues to build its fleet by precisely completing jobs with the right equipment in less time than its last project as its team inches closer to that five-year mark, always keeping that “five-star” mindset that doesn’t live on any Google business page. Their commitment to building relationships in their communities while continuously learning about their machine performances keeps them booking jobs and growing their business.

Read More eqtoday.co/fivestar Dennis Howard is vice president, construction equipment division, at RDO Equipment.

Visit rdoequipment.com.

January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

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BRIDGING THE GAP

INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS:

What’s in it for Me? Understanding the benefits and impact that membership can make within an industry or an area of expertise

I

t’s a fair question, isn’t it? And I can tell you as an executive director of an association for nine years, it’s also a question I get fairly often. While the short answer is “more than you can imagine,” I’ll do my best to share the details that have likely never been properly communicated to you. That is, unless you are already “guilty by association” with one or more organizations, in which case, I hope this article reminds you of all the opportunities afforded to you just for belonging to an association; not just the ones that you are already taking advantage of.

First, when referencing “associations,” I am speaking on behalf of any and all associations, which are defined as groups of people organized for a joint purpose, common interest, shared goal, etc. They come in many different shapes and sizes with various leadership, membership

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@Feel good studio - adobe.stock.com

and tax structures. The same can be said for the array of common interests that these associations are formed to support. The running joke in the industry is that there are associations for everything. Literally, just Google “weird associations you didn’t know existed” for starters; the results may or may not surprise you.

So, “what’s in it for me?” Or more broadly, why does anyone do anything?

People’s choices and behaviors are motivated by some sort of reward. We go to the gym because it makes us feel good, makes us look good, or makes us healthier. We go to work every day because we are passionate about what we do, we are helping others, or we are making money to buy things we want. The take-home here is that what makes you tick is actually based on your own personal rewards system; things you find of value as a result of your actions.

EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

Otherwise, let’s be honest, if you didn’t find value in what you were doing, you wouldn’t do it. It’s that simple.

Now then, back to the question.

There is a tremendous amount of value for you within an association, but also don’t forget that the world does not revolve around you.

Seriously though, don’t forget that associations are formed to connect people with common interests or goals for information sharing, teaching, learning, practicing, leveraging a collective voice, etc.

As a member of an association, one of the most significant benefits for certain folks is the impact that they can make within their industry or their area of focus, simply by being a part of that group with similar interests and goals; think strength in numbers here and the impacts this has locally, regionally, and nationally

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or internationally, depending on the association.

Inherent within these collective efforts of a group with targeted interests also follows industry recognition. Individually, this could come in the form of being identified as a trusted or qualified person or company within your craft, bringing you more business or further connecting you within your industry simply as a result of your affiliation with that organization. Most associations are recognized as leaders and experts within their industry, craft or area of focus.

They belong to and partner closely with other diverse organizations and groups where they are top of mind when discussions around the table turn to their area of expertise, further expanding the reach of the association’s network and thereby its opportunities for members.

BRIDGING THE GAP

As a member of an association, one of the most significant benefits for certain folks is the impact they can make within their industry or their area of focus, simply by being a part of that group with similar interests and goals; think strength in numbers here and the impacts this has locally, regionally, and nationally or internationally, depending on the association.”

Do you know one of the topranked benefits of belonging to an association as identified by members?

Believe it or not, it’s the networking.

It’s bumping elbows with likeminded and like-valued individuals and companies. It’s learning from each other in hallways between education sessions. It’s knowing you have a resource (or hundreds to thousands depending on the size of the association’s membership) to call upon with a question for local, national or international input. It’s making lifelong friendships in your area or across this great nation (again, depending on the association’s size).

Being a millennial and recognizing my fellow Gen Y’ers are now the largest demographic in the workforce today, one could argue that some of you reading this already have all these connections via Facebook, X, TikTok, or whatever number of social media platforms to which you belong.

However, I can personally vouch for

 As identified by members, one of the top-ranked benefits of belonging to an association is networking.

@KOTO - adobe.stock.com

my social network of friends online and tell you that 99% don’t know squat about the shared interests I value within the associations to which I belong, let alone would they answer or return my phone call in a timely manner with regard to these topics when compared to my fellow association members (sorry friends, love you for other reasons!).

Again, associations center around joint interests. It’s the connections they afford you as a member that allow to hone your craft, impart your knowledge and expertise upon others, diversify and develop your own skill sets, advance a shared mission, and give back to that common interest, whatever it may be, that you are so passionate about.

Surprised that you’re this far into the article and still haven’t heard anything about the economic value of belonging to an association? Well, thanks for sticking around. The financial gain (remember that rewards system) of joining most associations can be extremely significant. Getting back to that strength in numbers, nearly all associations provide several discounts and cost savings to their memberships through various programs and product offerings. For example, an association comprised of small business owners may offer discounts on accounting

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software, credit card processing, website development/hosting fees, etc. While a trade association may offer discount programs on equipment and equipment rental, construction supplies, tires, oil, etc.

In my experience, I’ve seen certain association discount programs offered that have saved individual members thousands of dollars in one year. To be clear, I am speaking about the savings from individual programs, not multiple, utilized by members one single time. These types of benefits can be capable of funding annual membership dues for years, and, when stacked on top of other programs and product discounts, save members significant money on an annual basis.

Great for you, right? Right, but good for the cause or shared interest of your association, too.

You see, the membership dues that you pay to join these types of organizations fund the efforts of the organization, which was formed solely around and for the promotion of its common interests and goals; in other words, it builds upon itself.

For example, a trade association that attends job fairs at local schools or provides a scholarship to students entering a trade promotes general awareness of its industry to the next generation and helps foster a future workforce.

Realizing the bulk of associations’ budgets are comprised of membership dues, this example doesn’t exist without its members, and there are countless other examples you could reference here.

You know, your mom was right highlighting the power of “guilty by association” to you at a young age (don’t act like you didn’t have those friends too). It is as powerful an effect in the negative sense as it is in the positive sense. Belonging to a group with shared values and interests in the name of furthering those interests and each other to make a difference in the cause you are passionate about, to make a difference in your life, and to make a difference in the lives of others tends to be life altering; in a good way, not the way your mom was referencing. Hard to imagine, isn’t it?

But that IS what’s in it for you. Though, it’s not just about you. It’s actually about the effect that a lot of you can have together within an association that furthers you all individually and your joint interests.

Read More eqtoday.co/association Ryan Arch is executive secretary at Illinois Land Improvement Contractors Association (ILICA). Visit illica.net.

January 2025 | EQUIPMENT TODAY

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@nutawut | adobe.stock.com

RUNNING THE BUSINESS

How to Prep for 2025’s New Agenda

Tips to reduce costs, lower interest expenses, improve jobsite efficiency and find additional personnel to stay competitive in your market

Y

ou are probably in the process of closing out 2024 and finishing your game plan, budget and cash flow projections for 2025. You are doing this, right?

Some of your planning was based on your thoughts about the outcome of the election. If so, at least 50% of you got it right. So, seeing that the lower taxes and regulations crowd won, those expecting higher taxes and more regulation will have to quickly redo their plans to avoid falling behind their peers.

Either way, planning for 2025 will not be easy because your options to improve your business are numerous and complicated and, in most cases, will require a new budget item you have not considered until now.

There will be both pros and cons for each decision you need to make.

Hopefully, you pick the ones that will benefit your business and, in turn, provide benefits to your customers as well. Before we get to far along, here is a list of issues you need to consider: ˜ Tax cuts ˜ Deregulation ˜ Trade polices ˜ Infrastructure investment ˜ Energy policies ˜ Interest rates ˜ New labor laws ˜ Inflation ˜ Digital and AI requirements ˜ Energy costs and sources ˜ New manufacturing, distribution, storage and assembly operations in the U.S. Which topic should you attack first? Before we go further, I would add one more: personnel levels. Out of the remaining items, I would review taxes, trade policies, interest rates, labor laws, inflation, digital and Al requirements, and others in due time.

Wow, how are you going to get this done without taking six months to do it? While having the ability to review these topics quickly would be great, you do not want to make mistakes because your competitors will take advantage of that, especially if they produce ways to improve their operations starting in February 2025.

To help you get this review and analysis completed in a timely manner, the following will

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include considerations and suggestions to adjust your 2025 plans and budgets to generate the results needed to cover expenses and debt service requirements.

To help with this, I want you to buy a book titled “Who Not How,” which explains that when you need quick results on business issues, but don’t have the time or expertise to produce industry-specific solutions, you are better off paying for the help you need to get the answers “now,” being provided by a “who” expert.

And, when all is said and done, the cost of using a “who” should pay for itself because you would not have arrived at a solution otherwise until months down the road.

“Who” may be one person or a number of persons. There may be a different “who” for each topic. And since you are in the same boat as a lot of other contractors, you may find it beneficial to get a few folks together and share the cost of the information.

You want to take advantage to use these options to reduce costs, lower interest expenses, improve jobsite efficiency and find additional personnel to stay competitive in your market. Let’s review some of the more important items from the list.

TAXES

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 will be extended, which means the lower rates and current deductions remain available. In addition, the estate tax rates remain in place. And since there is a chance that rates could be reduced further, your bottom line income could increase because of lower tax payments.

Federal taxes are one thing. Taxes in the states in which you do business are another. There have been a number of changes on the state side, so make sure to review that you are properly preparing returns for the states in which you do business.

DEREGULATION

Deregulation should allow you to reduce both the cost of government and operating costs in general. But you must be sure to confirm you are within the law as each opportunity becomes available.

EQUIPMENT TODAY | January 2025

TRADE POLICIES

Tariffs are the main issue, and onshoring is another. This could affect supply chains and increase the cost of foreign-made goods. But it could help increase business generated by the newcomers. I would be careful to ensure your inventory and equipment levels are appropriate, but, at the same time, be careful about front-end loading inventory, which could have a negative impact on your balance sheet and cash flow.

INTEREST RATES

Expect a continuing reduction in rates.

They will be cut until there is a reason not to. Rates should be in the 6% to 7% range. But economic conditions, including inflation and gross domestic product (GDP) growth, do influence interest rates. I would touch base with your bankers to see how they are feeling about your debt structure and the cost of supplying that capital. Try not to overleverage if you can avoid it.

Consider renting a piece of equipment that might help with job efficiency.

LABOR LAWS

Immigration enforcement raids will return. Agency chairs will be replaced.

Expect repeal of Biden regulations.

But there are new overtime rules, and independent contractor reporting requirements that could get you in trouble if you are not careful. Use your payroll service to review the changes and how to account for them.

INFLATION

We could spend a week discussing this topic. Find a “who” to help you out with this, or spend more time reviewing the daily business reports you can get access to. Your chief financial officer (CFO) can do this. But the bottom line is: Inflation is here to stay. If you want a clearer picture about inflation, find a copy of the December-January 2025 issue of Forbes. In Steve Forbes’ column, he explains that there are two kinds of inflation: nonmonetary inflation, caused by major disruptions in production, which the Fed can do nothing about, and monetary inflation, caused by lowering the value of the currency where the Fed may have

some way to control. If you could really reduce the inflation that has occurred, the car I bought 50 years ago for a couple thousand dollars would not cost $40,000 today.

With the Federal debt level we have today, rates could increase because of perceived risk factors.

And to add a final issue regarding inflation, think about what you are going to have to pay for personnel who can get the work done. Just be sure not to get carried away with budget adjustments thinking prices are going down. Keep your guard up and protect your cash flow.

DIGITAL AND AI REQUIREMENTS

This is the elephant in the room today and it should go to the top of the list. If you are scheduled to run your business the same way you did last year, I suggest you find a “who” tomorrow to find out what you can do to reduce costs and improve efficiency to stay at a competitive level in your market. We are talking about major improvement requirements.

However, if you are starting this change program already, good for you. After reading a ton of material about what is available for firms in the construction business, I believe that general contractors (GCs) are going to push more of their work to firms who can generate and transfer data digitally, giving them a better chance to finish the job on time and on budget. In other words, who are the GCs going to want to work with going forward? Digital wins. Digital and AI capability is a must today.

The cost of the digital transformation is an important line item you may not have considered up to this point. And if you are not making this change now, you will need a couple of “whos” to get you started with a game plan and budget to start out with.

Read More eqtoday.co/bartecki

Garry Bartecki is managing member of GB Financial Services LLP and a consultant to the Independent Equipment Dealers Association.

Visit gbfinancialservices.com.

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