Construction Plant News March/April 2021

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MARCH / APRIL 2021

Construction

PLANT NEWS THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR PLANT PROFESSIONALS

EXCAVATORS WHAT’S ON THE BUCKET LIST?

LIFTING & ACCESS THE HIGH AND MIGHTY IN ACCESS PLATFORMS AND CRANES

IT’S BOOM TIME FOR THE GENIE J SERIES

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CONTENTS @CPN_mag

MARCH / APRIL 2021 cpnonline.co.uk

e

ljones@hamerville.co.uk

Construction Plant News, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF.

THIS ISSUE...

REGULARS

SPECIAL REPORTS

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EDITOR’S VIEWPOINT NEWS FLEET ADDITIONS NEW PRODUCTS

Asset Management with Trackunit Kin Contractors Plant Hire and Point of Rental

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FEATURES LIFTING & ACCESS 16 Snorkel – Lithium-ion Technology 19 Q&A with Genie 22 Rothen Group – Lifting Regulations 24 Manitou – 200 ATJ E Oxygen 25 NEW PRODUCTS

EXCAVATORS

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26 SITECH – Training Opportunities 29 Volvo/Engcon Collaboration 30 Liebherr and Machine Control 34 NEW PRODUCTS CPN I MARCH / APRIL 3

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VIEWPOINT Editor LEE JONES

ljones@hamerville.co.uk Managing Editor

DISTANCE LEARNING

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s the process of unlocking begins, and we slowly inch towards some level of normality, it is worth reflecting on what impact Covid-19 will have on the construction plant landscape. After the precipitous collapses in output of the first lockdown, Lee Jones, the building industry Editor deserves considerable credit for adapting its processes and navigating a new world order of social distancing with some success. Indeed, much of the economic data of the last few months is allowing for tentative optimism, not least with levels of underlying demand in private housebuilding and infrastructure likely to remain strong for many years.

Government remains by some considerable distance UK construction’s biggest client and its avowed commitment to continue to invest in a key sector of the economy is welcome. Similarly, the introduction of capital investment incentives in the budget to encourage the purchase of new equipment is significant. It is true to say that the technologies available on the most advanced solutions rolling from modern assembly lines could transform the progress of almost every project in the land, but their take-up has been at best patchy. At the same time, advances in alternative powertrains, machine control and digitalisation, has put construction on the cusp of real change, and even the most traditional and conservative in the built environment community will be powerless to resist for much longer.

One of the unintended consequences of the global pandemic has been the role of technology as our friend and saviour. It has often been a slow process in the plant sector but we are seeing it percolate through the supply chain, and the demands of operating safely in the Covid era have accelerated this shift in mindsets still further. Of course, the efficiencies that can

be accrued can be prodigious, but more incentives from government, particularly in relation to the tax system, will be welcome if we are to develop a culture that truly embraces the potential of new innovations. Whitehall should equally be ensuring that a commitment to research and development is enshrined in the machinery sector in order to emulate some of the advances that have been made in recent years by the automotive giants.

It is clear that the war against this terrible virus is being won, and when it is complete we will refocus on the other great challenges of our age, not least climate change, and the construction industry’s role in that pivotal battle is paramount. In developing a swathe of vaccines in record time, we have demonstrated once again that political will and great minds are a potent combination.

Give the cleverest people in the world an unlimited budget to solve a problem and there will only be one result. It is how we put a man on the moon and it is ultimately how we will save our own world.

We may occupy the realm of plant and machinery but this is ultimately a people business. The number of new roles required in order to achieve the industry’s carbon neutral ambitions alone are projected to be significant, and we must be making a concerted effort to encourage new entrants and develop new skills. In this context the Covid-19 induced travails of other sectors could well be construction’s gain in promoting the built environment as a positive career destination and, again, government has its role to play in reforming what is currently a malfunctioning apprenticeship system. Indeed, it would be no exaggeration to say that construction’s role in society is at its most significant since it was tasked with rebuilding shattered postwar communities, and its workforce must be equipped with the tools to finish the job.

TERRY SMITH

tsmith@hamerville.co.uk Digital Assistant DAVID MOLLOY

dmolloy@hamerville.co.uk Group Advertisement Manager CRAIG JOWSEY

craig@hamerville.co.uk 07900248102 Advertisement Manager JACOB TATUM

jtatum@hamerville.co.uk 07825773737 Magazine Designer GEMMA WATSON Group Production Manager CAROL PADGETT Publisher BRYAN SHANNON Subscriptions Construction Plant News is a business magazine for plant professionals, contractors, materials extraction and processing companies, waste and recycling operations, as well as local authorities. If you are not on our circulation list and would like to subscribe email circulation@hamerville.co.uk To be removed from this magazine’s circulation please call 01923 237799 or email circulation@hamerville.co.uk.

Printed by Walstead Roche Published by HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF. Tel: Watford (01923) 237799 Fax: (01923) 246901 Copyright © 2021

The publishers and editor do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors of translation in the subject matter in this publication.

Total Average Net Distribution 9,034 1 July 2019 - 30 June 2020

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NEWS © AdobeStock/Ivan Kruk

ECONOMY DRIVE The economic data in the first quarter of 2021 has revealed that the construction sector is powering much of UK PLC through the pandemic. With activity steadily recovering, equipment sales held firm at the back end of 2020. According to the Construction Equipment Association (CEA), sales in December were 15 per cent ahead of December 2019 levels, and this was sufficient to edge Q4 sales to 1 per cent above

the same quarter in 2019.

Across the industry as whole, the relatively early emergence of green shoots has established the built environment as an oasis of growth in the economy. Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures have revealed that the sector grow by 0.9 per cent in January, with government investment in infrastructure projects paying dividends, and private housebuilding maintaining an upward curve.

Contractors have been able to continue to operate in the third national lockdown, albeit under stringent Covid-related regulations, which has ameliorated its effects.

The IHS Markit / CIPS UK Construction PMI for February equally heralded a return to positive territory, with new

commercial building projects previously delayed by the pandemic getting off the ground in greater numbers. It also cited the housing market – buoyed by the current SDLT savings for buyers – as a strong area.

i To find out more WWW.RDR.LINK/CV001

© AdobeStock/rh2010

BEACON OF HOPE

CHARITY PROVIDES UNPRECEDENTED LEVELS OF SUPPORT The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity responded to 2,399 families in crisis in 2020, with the number of cases increasing by 70 per cent. In addition, the charity leveraged £562,000 from sources including benefit entitlements, that would have otherwise gone unclaimed. £224,229 was spent on well-being education and training, and, thanks to generous support from COINS, a further £87,000 was invested in innovation, specifically on the Construction Industry Helpline app which complements the charity’s 24/7 helpline in offering a huge variety of information and guidance in the areas of mental, physical and financial wellbeing.

i To find out more

WWW.RDR.LINK/CV002

SUPER, SMASHING, GREAT

TREASURY MEASURES TO ENCO URAGE INVESTMENT IN EQUIPMENT HAVE BEEN WELCO MED “The ann

ouncement of a “Super De duction” for capital investment should stimula te decisions from compan ies currently undecided abo ut their expenditure pla ns,” declares Rob Oliver CEO, CEA (Co nstruction Equipment Ass ociation).

For every £100 they spe nd contractors and hirers will receive a tax credit of £130. The ability to carry back com pany losses for three years against ear lier profits will also help the cash flow of many companies . Elsewhere, it is hoped the creation of a UK Infrastructure Ban k, with an initial capitalisat ion of £12 billion, will generate $40 billion in investment, and grants for taking on new appren tices will be doubled to £3,000.

i To find out more

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© AdobeStock/Ivan Kruk

INNOVATION NATION

WIN UP TO £100K WITH CONSTRUCTION INNOVATION COMPETITION Could your idea improve the construction industry or the built environment? The 2021 COINS Grand Challenge is an opportunity to grow an idea, win cash prizes of up to £100k and get noticed by construction industry leaders. This global competition is open to anyone who thinks they can improve the built environment, from increasing efficiency, and better decision making through to improving sustainability and reducing risk.

i To find out more

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INDUSTRY SHOWS POSTPONED IN LIGHT OF GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE THE PLANT SECTOR’S LEADING EXHIBITIONS HAVE SET REVISED TIMETABLES

As a result of Whitehall’s roadmap to ease COVID-19 restrictions, the organisers of the annual Executive Hire Show have postponed the 2021 event until 9th and 10th February. Plantworx is taking a more flexible approach to its forwardplanning, promising to announce a series of events from the latter part of 2021 through to 2023. The CEA has also confirmed that the Plantworx 2022 exhibition (scheduled for 14th/16th June), will NOT now take place as planned in light of the postponement of Hillhead, until June 2022.

i To find out more WWW.RDR.LINK/CV007

NICE LITTLE EARNER

A STRONG DEMAND FOR LABOUR IS DRIVING GROWTH IN EARNINGS, ACCORDING TO HUDSON CONTRACT Demand for skilled labour on building sites rebounded strongly in February, according to the construction industry’s biggest payer of subcontractors.

Hudson Contract said average weekly earnings for freelancers increased by 6.1 per cent. Hudson supplies professional services to more than 2,500 construction SMEs and has a turnover of £1.6bn.

i To find out more

WWW.RDR.LINK/CV005

WORKING ON THE TRAIN GANG NEW TRAINING COURSES COULD UNLOCK LUCRATIVE CONTRACTS

BREXIT STRATEGY

KNOW THE RULES AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF NEW OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE HAE EHA The deal itself might now be consigned to the pages of history but the Hire Association Europe and Event Hire Association (HAE EHA) is maintaining its support to its members to navigate the new reality. Measures that need to be taken by businesses in hire and construction amidst the new trading relations, as well as clarifications on issues such construction products regulations and GDPR are all addressed in a series of HAE EHA webinars, as well as one specifically dedicated to UK GDPR, which can be accessed on the organisation’s website.

i To find out more

WWW.RDR.LINK/CV006

HS2 Ltd, Highways England, Network Rail and Transport for London have joined forces in encouraging small and medium sized businesses to register for free training courses, designed to improve their prospects of meeting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) supply chain requirements, and help them secure future contract opportunities. The initiative is in partnership with leading training provider, the Supply Chain Sustainability School and will be delivered through online learning sessions.

i To find out more WWW.RDR.LINK/CV008

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S P E C I A L R E P O R T: A S S E T M A N A G E M E N T

THE FAST TRACK T ag it, track it, done – as messages go that’s pretty simple, and it represents the guiding principle of a product that promises to take asset tracking to the next level. Trackunit Kin is designed to make many more tools and attachments visible to owners and fleet managers through proven Bluetooth 5.2 technology, and by harnessing the power and reach of the company’s already highly successful Manager telematics platform and Go mobile resource.

The hardware itself is a simple, robust and entirely maintenance-free 53mm x 35mm

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Trackunit Kin enables all site assets and equipment to be connected and managed using a single app. Construction Plant News Editor, Lee Jones investigates

device that can be attached to any small, medium or large sized asset, but this unassuming black box opens up a world of useful insights. “Up to 30 per cent of tools are lost or stolen annually on the construction jobsite,” explains Soeren Brogaard, CEO at Trackunit, “and the average construction worker spends up to 10 per cent of their time looking for misplaced items. Clearly, in time critical projects that’s a productivity problem, but add to that the cost implications of only 20 per cent of stolen equipment ever being recovered and there are even bigger issues at play.”

That’s a situation that Trackunit Kin aims to change. Brogaard continues: “As an organisation, simply knowing what you have, where it is, and how it is being used – and being able to access that information quickly – can make for significant efficiency savings and it means the total cost of ownership on tools and attachments can be reduced. It is our belief that all equipment on site should be connected.”

A system like Trackunit Kin is now possible thanks to dramatic improvements in battery life – with a guarantee of up to five years on the tag, and the range now available through Bluetooth 5.2. Brogaard outlines how the company’s position in the market is being utilised to radically broaden the scope of what can now benefit from asset tracking.

“Hundreds of thousands of machines in more than 100 countries are already connected through our telematics system. The introduction of Trackunit Kin means that all onsite hardware can be tagged connected, tracked and managed using a single and easyto-use application, with relevant data and location sent to Trackunit Manager, our existing fleet management system.”

Of course, nobody has time to adopt complex technologies that require changes to established working practices and that’s why Trackunit Kin has been designed to be simple to install, learn and work with. Indeed, the manufacturer claims a 1-minute set-up and, when functioning, utilises not just its Manager system but also the Go portal. Targeted and

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tailormade for field service personnel, the latter is your mobile window on your own world of assets.

The ambition doesn’t end there, however because within the Trackunit DNA is a drive to eliminate downtime, not just for its own customers but the industry as a whole. As a result Trackunit Kin can not only locate and read from its own tag but also those of third parties. It is not a closed eco-system but one with a mission to help the industry as a whole.

Attaching the tag itself is child’s play. To activate the device, simply remove the sticker located on the top of the tag, at which point a light will flash green. Ensure you are mounting the Kin in a location on the asset where damage will be avoided. It can then be fixed by gluing, screwing or with cable/zip ties. Once secured, open the Trackunit Go app on your smartphone, go to settings and select Onboard Trackunit Kin. Follow the steps, starting by keeping your phone close to the unit. Once the right Kin is selected, input the asset details and complete the process by adding a photo. Your asset is now stored with Trackunit Manager and, from that point on, every colleague has sight of it. There is an unlimited number of devices that can be managed through Kin, which means that

potentially every piece of equipment can be covered.

If you’re an operator or service technician on a jobsite, or in a depot, and you need to find a particular attachment.

Simply access Trackunit Go on your smartphone. Through the core Trackunit Manager system it’s equally possible to not only locate a particular attachment, but access how it is being used and, if it’s an attachment, what machine it has been paired with. As a result, not only can responsible individuals ensure that pieces of equipment are being used correctly, but that they are also available when and where they are needed.

Kin has the power to create a digital twin of that tool, which can include all the

“Technology is continuing to highlight opportunities for the industry to reduce loss or theft of equipment.” necessary insights into the asset, such as service intervals, or instruction manuals, for instance. Not only that but by activating an LED indicator on the tag it’s possible to identify a specific piece of equipment in a pool of assets, whilst movement, vibration and activity detection using low power embedded sensors will also be added in future updates. Its developers guarantee a five-year life on lithium-ion battery cell housed in the tag and operates through the proven technology of Bluetooth 5.2.

Trackunit already has more than 25 years of history in connecting equipment within the construction sector and the Kin concept represents a further development in that journey. Technology is continuing to highlight opportunities where the industry can reduce loss or theft, lower replacement costs, provide accurate inventory analysis and increase project productivity. Today, data collection and analytics are able to provide insights into machine use, service and lifecycle that are helping change the organisation, its productivity and the profitability of projects.

i For more details about the new features of Trackunit Kin WWW.RDR.LINK/CV009

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S P E C I A L R E P O R T: F L E E T M A N A G E M E N T

A POINT WELL MADE The Syrinx inventory and rental software system from Point of Rental has certainly proven to be management material for an ambitious company. Construction Plant News Editor, Lee Jones talks to Contractors Plant Hire about their experiences

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f a business embarks upon an aggressive expansion drive then it needs products and partners that can power it along that journey. That’s just what Contractors Plant Hire has found in the Syrinx rental software system from Point of Rental and in the Covid19 landscape it has proven all the more invaluable.

Whether it’s DIYers digging the footings for an extension, or main contractors on major infrastructure schemes, Contractors Plant Hire has been supplying premium-brand plant and tools across the south of England since 1997. Just four years ago, however, the company was acquired by Jonathan Stevens, an

entrepreneur with aspirations to enlarge its scope of operations considerably and Point of Rental’s inventory management expertise would become an indispensable part of that project.

“I can honestly say that I love Syrinx,” declares the firm’s General Manager, Ryan Rea. “It’s a system that we know can be easily deployed into every part of the business, and there’s always someone on hand at Point of Rental to explain exactly how we can do just that. Because it’s Microsoft Windows-based, the mechanics of it are something that anyone who has used a PC will be familiar with, and our staff were able to master it very quickly as a consequence.”

That’s a view that is endorsed

by Contractors Plant Hire’s Operations Manager, Martin Livermore: “One of the beauties of Syrinx compared to products we’ve utilised in the past is how straightforward the integration has been, and not just for the hire desk but also with our fitters. Our parts inventory was previously managed through Microsoft Excel so it was a seamless process to simply feed that into Syrinx. It was practically an instant transfer of over 10,000 items and has made our stock control so much more efficient. We had PCs installed in the workshop for our fitters and, although it was certainly available to us, our personnel required very little formal training.

That also helps with new recruits as well because they can familiarise themselves with our processes in less than a day.”

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S P E C I A L R E P O R T: F L E E T M A N A G E M E N T “Our ambition is to run a paperless operation and in that respect the apps have been a revelation.”

Syrinx departs from many of its competitors in that fleet managers can choose the elements of the software that are relevant to their operations and make use of them accordingly, and Contractors Plant Hire has chosen to maximise its level of engagement with the system. “The more you put in, the better the reports are and that’s why everything we do is on Syrinx. It means we can easily analyse asset utilisation, for example, in order to make decisions about future purchases, or interrogate the efficiency of our transport, logistics and workshop functions. In addition, all the reports that are generated can be customised so we can choose to see the information that is most relevant to us.”

The team at Contractors Plant Hire were already well-versed in the accessibility of Syrinx, but lockdown has also demonstrated the power of the apps. Remote working might have become a reality many more of us have had to embrace but for the owner of Contractors Plant Hire, Jonathan Stevens it was already part of the rationale for turning to Point of Rental. Based largely off-site, what he wanted was a reporting system that could provide all the information he wanted, and that’s what it has delivered, but the apps now take that to a different level.

Appy Days!

“Our ambition is to run a paperless operation, and in that respect the apps have been a revelation,” reveals Ryan. “We started with the Driver’s App and that has allowed our personnel to complete all the necessary PODs (Proof of Deliveries) and log photographic evidence in the field. The pictures can be very important in terms of

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identifying damage during hire, so we can also make sure that they can’t close that job until they’ve been taken. In the office, the Driver Scheduler displays the position of our drivers, deliveries and collections, and we can drop a job onto the app. If information like the contact on site has been changed on the system this then updates through the app itself and, because all the relevant staff members have it on their phone, that’s then visible to everyone.”

Similarly, the Workshop App has proven invaluable to Contractors Plant Hire in managing and assigning jobs, as Martin Livermore outlines. “Because it’s synched with Syrinx we know when an engineer is en route, and when he’s done, and all the necessary parts can be requisitioned. During lockdown, a fitter has been able to manage everything on screen, from his own station, and, because they weren’t required to go to the office or interact unnecessarily with colleagues that has helped immeasurably with social distancing. Whatever app is being used all that information is then fed back into the contract with the customer, so there’s full visibility of the history of the hire.”

“Of course, that also applies to the

customer as well because they can access their own invoices through the Customer Portal, and that level of transparency does a lot to build trust. When we have customers that come to collect and return equipment to the depot themselves they’re always very impressed by the efficiency of the operation, because whoever is dealing with them has all the information they need through Syrinx and the apps.”

“What Syrinx does is pull the business together into one whole,” concludes Ryan.

“We have a full inventory of assets and parts, that Syrinx feeds into our accounts, and the Apps mean that we can do far more remotely through a paperless operation. It’s a system where there is always a way of finding a solution, and there is someone at Point of Rental on the end of the phone to help us through it.”

i For further information on Contractors Plant Hire WWW.RDR.LINK/CV010

i For further information on Point of Rental WWW.RDR.LINK/CV011

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FLEET ADDITIONS

INCREASED MORRIS SITE MACHINERY STOCK Morris Site Machinery has announced a significant investment in stock of its Denyo generator and ArcGen welder brands and has taken delivery of £4 million worth of Stage IIIA compliant equipment. The generators include Renta 20’s, Renta 37’s, and Eventa 37’s. They offer around 14-16 hours of continuous run time and are super silent with lockable fuel caps, multiple transportation options and a choice of sockets. The welders include 200SSD’s, 400CC/CV’s and 500CC/CV’s.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV012

NORWEST PLANT AGREES SITE DUMPER DEAL

SPEEDY FUELS A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE The addition of over 200 new generators, ranging from 20kVa up to 500kVa, boosts the Speedy fleet to 2,500 units. The machines are compatible with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) fuel, which can reduce emissions by up to 90 per cent compared to using diesel. There’s also been an investment in 150 fuel pods (fPod) that customers can use as temporary fuel stations on-site, each of which can hold 5,300L to 17,880L, depending on the model, and will cut fuel deliveries and reduce the risk of spills.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV014

OWNER-OPERATOR AGAIN OPTS FOR YANMAR Yanmar dealer, MTS Plant – who operate across Yorkshire, Lancashire, Cheshire, and the central belt of Scotland (Glasgow/Edinburgh) – have helped Mark Wilson of M Wilson Plant Hire replace his five-tonne excavator with a new ViO57. The zero-tail swing design makes excavating on space-restricted worksites simple, while the recently updated boom offers 10 per cent greater lifting force while reducing its weight by 40kg for better manoeuvrability.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV015

(l to r): Darren McIntosh and Dean Muir with the new Doosan DX140LC-5 crawler excavator.

CONTRACTOR PROSPERS WITH DOOSAN

“Robust and rental-tough,” is how Jonathan Campbell, Managing Director of Norwest Plant has described the 71 site dumpers it has supplied to B&W Plant Hire. Mecalac’s official dealer for North Wales and the North West of England agreed the multi-million-pound deal with a hirer that operates from four depots, in Blackburn, Keighley, Northwich and Southampton.

Supplied by Balgownie, the local authorised Doosan dealer, Dundeebased DDP Contractors has added a DX140LC-5 14.4 tonne crawler excavator to its fleet. Improvements in performance compared to the previous model include a 5 per increase in engine power and 4 per cent greater torque. In addition, traction has been boosted with an increase in drawbar pull of about 18 per cent and front lifting capacity has been increased. The machine also boasts 3 per cent less fuel consumption.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV013

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV016

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LIFTING & ACCESS

In the quest for Net Zero, lithium power is reaching new heights. Snorkel examines the technology and its increasing range of solutions

The power of good L

ithium-ion battery technology has become increasingly common in our everyday lives, to be found powering everything from our mobile phones and laptops to hand tools, e-bikes and even hoverboards. However, as we focus on achieving sustainability and net-zero emissions targets, the use of lithium-ion technology is expanding from consumer products into a viable alternative to diesel in commercial and industrial products and applications.

In the lifting equipment sector, lithiumion batteries are now being successfully introduced as a real, zero emission alternative to diesel engines in mid-size, rough terrain capable mobile elevating working platforms. Since late 2019, MEWP manufacturer Snorkel has introduced eight lithium-ion battery powered models as direct alternatives to its existing dieselpowered variants. This range includes the world’s first lithium-ion powered compact rough terrain telehandler, the Snorkel SR626E, as well as five compact rough terrain scissor lifts, and two Speed Levels, with a ninth model – a mid-size rough terrain articulated boom lift – coming later this year.

“Battery-powered machines offer zero CO emissions and reduce noise.”

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This product development is being driven by increasing customer demand for cleaner, greener equipment to replace diesel-powered units, particularly for use in urban areas with low emission zones, or where jobsite emissions regulations are in place. When compared to equivalent diesel-powered models, the lithium-ion powered versions deliver zero CO2 emissions, zero dust generation, and up to 62 per cent less noise.

How do lithium-ion batteries work?

Lithium-ion batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that uses the movement of lithium ions to create the flow of electricity. On these new Snorkel products, lithium-ion batteries have replaced the traditional diesel engine, to power an electric motor in place of the combustion engine.

The batteries used in Snorkel products come with an integrated battery management system (BMS) which controls the batteries and maximises efficiency. It is a low voltage system, meaning it does not require specialist high voltage training for any servicing requirements, and has been tested in climatic chambers between -25°C and +60°C. The overall operation of the lithium-ion battery-powered machine remains largely the same as a diesel machine, but with zero emissions. The lithium-ion powered lifts also benefit from higher torque, which delivers higher gradeability for enhanced performance on rough or uneven terrain, versus the diesel models.

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How do you maintain lithium-ion batteries?

Unlike other types of batteries, such as lead acid, lithium-ion batteries are completely maintenance-free, and do not require regular water level checks or cleaning of battery terminals. This eliminates the risk of frequent battery replacement, should the correct maintenance not be performed.

In addition to lithium-ion batteries being maintenance-free, the electric motor used on Snorkel’s lithium-ion range is also maintenance-free. When compared to the equivalent diesel-powered lifts that require regular servicing and maintenance, such as frequent oil changes, filter changes, and occasional repairs, this represents a significant reduction in maintenance time and costs. In studies conducted by Snorkel, a lithium-ion battery powered lift reduces servicing costs by up to 93 per cent each year, when compared with an equivalent diesel-powered model, helping to minimise total ownership costs.

What are the environmental benefits of lithium-ion battery power?

With an electric drive motor and functions, lithium battery-powered machines produce zero CO2 emissions, which means that these lifts meet emissions regulations and can be used in zero emission or low emission zones where combustion engines may not be permitted and can be used indoors. Battery power also eliminates the possibility of fuel spillage.

These lifts also reduce dust generation in low emission zones and green cities. Lithium-ion lifts do not have an engine fan, and therefore create less dust than machines with combustion engines. This results in safer and cleaner operation that is ultimately friendlier to the environment.

The use of lithium-ion batteries and electric motor also reduces noise by up to 62 per cent compared to a diesel engine.

This means that lithium-electric machines are suitable to work in environments where there may be noise regulations, offering the possibility of working longer hours in urban or residential areas, where out of hours noise restrictions may be in place.

the model, meaning that lithium powered lifts have the same or greater rough terrain performance than their diesel equivalents.

Lithium electric Snorkel lifts are also equipped with a digital proportional joystick to provide improved operator control and efficiency, when compared with equivalent diesel models. Using the digital output to control the motor directly results in more tactile and responsive acceleration for noticeably smoother performance and an improved operator experience.

What should you expect from battery-powered lifts?

What happens to batteries at the end of their life?

Depending on speed and usage, lithium-ion powered Snorkel lifts are designed to perform up to a full work shift on a single charge. Lithium-ion batteries generally are fully charged in around 5-8 hours, depending on the model, and can also be top-up charged as needed to maximize productivity, such as during a lunch break. All Snorkel lithium-ion powered lifts come equipped with a standard on-board charger, and for environments where constant operation for long periods is required, optional off-board fast charger units are available.

Higher torque, higher speeds and higher gradeability deliver powerful rough terrain, four-wheel drive capabilities and impressive gradeability up to 50 per cent, depending on

Snorkel uses proven lithium-ion battery packs with a built-in battery management system (BMS), and an integrated electric powertrain developed with Hyperdrive Innovation, a Sunderland-based developer and manufacturer of lithium-ion battery technology for electric vehicles and energy storage systems. The lithium-ion battery pack is warranted for two years or 2,000 charging cycles, whichever comes first. At the end of the life of the battery, they can be returned to Snorkel for recycling.

i For further information on the Snorkel range of MEWPS WWW.RDR.LINK/CV022

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L IFTING & ACCESS

BOOM Companion Construction Plant News puts the questions to Jacco de Kluijver, Genie Vice President Sales & Marketing, for Terex AWP in EMEAR on the J Series range of boom lifts

Q.

In the current marketplace maximising rental revenue is more important than ever.

What is Genie doing to help rental firms enhance profitability and lower total cost of ownership, and how does the J Series fit into that mission?

Jacco de Kluijver: Our comprehensive boom line-up allows hirers to match the right equipment to their customers’ specific needs. If the end user needs to lift heavy equipment, for example – and put three people in the platform – the Genie XC line offers industry-leading lifting capacity. For jobsites that require indoor/outdoor capability, our Fuel Electric models offer the most advanced and reliable true hybrid machines in the industry. When a customer needs to get to height for tasks such as inspections and maintenance, tree trimming, painting, or electrical work, we’re proud to introduce the new J Series to complete our model line-up.

Q.

Tell use more about the new J Series? How does it complement the XC and FE units already available?

JdK: While no other boom can beat the XC series when heavy lifting is required, XC boom can be overkill for many jobs, including maintenance and inspections, or other routine tasks that require relatively simple tools. This is where the J Series is the perfect fit. Our engineering team began developing the J Series boom by focusing on attributes that optimise the total cost of ownership, uptime, and delivery costs.

To optimise TCO, we designed the range to deliver peak performance for everyday jobs, including painting, maintenance, and general construction work. By right-sizing every part of the machine to specifically meet the needs of that type of work, we were able to design a machine that reduces total cost of ownership by up to 20 per cent.

Q.

Can you provide us with more detail in how the design has achieved those savings?

JdK: Many of those TCO benefits are driven by the J boom lift’s two-tube, singleenvelope boom, which is much simpler than a standard dual envelope and is much easier to service. Additionally, the unit has

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LIFTING & ACCESS

no length sensors to worry about, which reduces costly inspections and the potential need for parts replacement.

Additionally, a 30 per cent reduction in wearable components combined with significantly fewer overall inspection points means less time and money spent on maintenance. And, because less time is spent on maintenance, your J boom will spend more time getting work done in the field.

We’ve also maximised uptime with the hydraulic system, which requires 33 per cent less fluid volume than common booms in comparable height classes. This feature has a direct and positive impact on replacement fluid costs and reduces the time needed to perform service tasks.

Q.

What other benefits does the J Series offer?

JdK: One of most significant advantages of the J Series is its best-in-class weight specifications. Weighing 1/3rd less than comparable booms, it also features an optimised transport position, which allows a single trailer to transport a mix of equipment or to deliver up to two S-60 J boom lifts on the same trailer. By optimising

Introducing the Genie S-60 J & S-80 J telescopic booms Equipped with everything the operator needs for general construction tasks is how Genie describes its S-60 J & S-80 J telescopic boom lifts. Utilising a jibbed boom, the units have a platform capacity of 300kg, a 1.8m jib, a low operating weight of respectively 7,550kg and 11,113kg, and compact chassis design.

Working heights range from 20.5m to 26.34m, horizontal reach from 12.3m to 16.69 m and a ground clearance of respectively 56.4 cm or 36 cm to clear obstacles.

Both units come as standard with the manufacturer’s patented active oscillating axles, rough-terrain, foam-filled tyres. The S-60 J features a 17.8kW (2-hp) Kubota D1105 diesel engine (Stage V compliant, no after-treatment system needed), while the S-80 J offers a 37 kW (49-hp) Kubota D1803 turbo diesel engine (Stage V compliant).

This is a rental-focused design with an engine that offers easy operation with no advanced emissions controls, as well as simple maintenance. In addition, hirers have the option to purchase the S-60 J with a 37kW (49-hp) Kubota D1803 turbo diesel engine (Stage V compliant) and non-marking, rough-terrain, foam-filled tyres. Accurate load weighing and zero-load field calibration is assured thanks to Genie digital load sense technology.

For further information on the Genie J Series telescopic boom lifts WWW.RDR.LINK/CV023 transport options, the S-60 J boom can provide significant savings in overall logistics costs for a business. With the S-80 J, a combination on multiple Genie machines on a single truck still possible. As an added benefit, these machines are also perfect for jobsites with sensitive ground pressure.

By optimising the structures, hydraulic system and overall machine weight, the S-60 J boom lift is able to offer a less complex, lower maintenance 2hp engine that is finely tuned to provide the performance needed to get the job done with the added benefit of less complicated emissions controls (no after-treatment) and internal electronics.

Other engine options are available in order to match any need to comply with environmental requirements.

20 MARCH / APRIL I CPN

Q.

In addition to the boom lifts, what accessories and support can customers get?

JdK: The J boom lift Series will share commonality in design, parts and accessories with other Genie products in a rental fleet.

Common options and accessories for Genie booms are also available for use on the S-60 J & S-80 J models, for example, including LiftConnect telematics, Lift Power, the panel cradle and pipe cradle attachments, positive air shutdown system, and more.

i For further information on the J Series boom line from Genie WWW.RDR.LINK/CV024

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LIFTING THE LID S

trict regulations are in place for manoeuvring materials or plant, given the serious risk this can pose to anyone on site if not done correctly. Known as the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER), these guidelines ensure best practice is carried out when operating or supplying lifting equipment.

If your business or organisation undertakes lifting operations, or is involved in providing lifting equipment, it is your responsibility to manage and control the risks to protect those involved. This is especially true when carrying out work close to waterways, which can present further dangers. To ensure this is the case, guidelines must be adhered to and lifting operations must be planned properly. Failing to do so could result in serious injury if a load is not properly supported.

Appropriate Equipment In order to correctly prepare for lifting objects on site, a lifting plan must be completed, regardless of whether the risk involved is basic or complex, heavy, or light.

A lifting plan provides details around the

22 MARCH / APRIL I CPN

Ian Rothen, Founder of The Rothen Group, explains the steps which should be put in place to ensure best practice when lifting

weight of the load being moved and the most appropriate safe working load (SWL) for the lifting accessory based on this. Lifting accessories such as shackles, straps or chains should all have the SWL stamped on them to provide guidance, this states the maximum safe force for lifting without breaking.

These lifting accessories are used to create a sling to move the load, the type of sling method used is dependent on the size and type of load as well as the environmental conditions in the area. It is therefore useful if personnel have the knowledge to plan for this and unexpected obstructions which may require the crane in use to lift at a different angle than previously planned. This can also impact what sling method should be used,

including a vertical, choke or basket lift with a single or double leg sling.

In addition to requiring detail around the SWL in the lifting plan, the specific equipment used in conjunction with the accessories is also needed. Ensuring those on site fully understand how to select the most appropriate equipment for the job to include in the plan helps to avoid injuries.

For example, at The Rothen Group (TRG), there is a fleet of certified lifting machines for waterside work – including cranes and diggers – all of which are capable of supporting varying load weights and attachments.

Surroundings Understanding how the type of ground that the operation will take place on can impact the risk involved is vital. Uneven or cracked ground, especially when close to rivers and canals, can pose a danger to the welfare of those on site, so needs to be carefully considered to avoid any accidents from happening. Maintaining these safe working conditions not only improves the organisation’s reputation, it also ensures the project runs on time, allowing further work to be taken on.

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The weather also plays an important role as this can change the nature of the ground below the equipment being used. Factors such as wind and rain can affect the ground, as well as bankside and lifting conditions, which, in turn, may require site personnel to opt for different lifting equipment more suitable to the new situation. Having a team that can understand how the equipment needs to be adjusted in line with this makes the whole project run more efficiently and avoids delays, which is why training is so important.

In-depth Training As a leading marine construction and civil engineering company, TRG believes specialist training is crucial, especially on bankside work where bodies of water can present further challenges. Consequently, additional in-house training is given to members of the team – who are then known as ‘Lifting Legends’ – to act as consultants and ensure the safety of everyone on site, including non-TRG personnel. This scheme was introduced after it was recognised that

there was a need to broaden this area of expertise, and that the level of awareness surrounding lifting could differ widely across multiple teams on any project.

The ‘Lifting Legends’ act as mentors, sharing their extensive knowledge with onsite contractors on how to safely lift loads while being aware of all of the variables involved. This also makes projects run more efficiently as they have the training to react

to dynamic working conditions associated with sites. Whether there are roadworks to plan around or unpredictable weather to consider, they are able to accommodate this and ensure the ground is safe.

i For more information on The Rothen Group WWW.RDR.LINK/CV025

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LIFTING & ACCESS

A BREATH OF

FRESH AIR The 200 ATJ E Oxygen – a new 100 per cent electric platform from Manitou – is now ready for delivery in the UK

W

hether it’s in construction or maintenance, the access platform remains the safest and most efficient way of working at height. In recent years, however, our highly populated and increasingly polluted towns and cities have increased the demand for emission-reducing products, and Manitou has the solution.

The ATJ 200 E Oxygen platform is the French manufacturer’s first 100 per cent electric all-terrain access model, and the first delivery of 200 ATJ E’s have arrived at Manitou UK ready for dispatch. Equipped with a 48Volt battery, the machine can achieve up to one full day of work without charge, even in adverse weather conditions. Indeed, this lowvoltage battery is a key feature, ensuring technicians can service the machine without the need for specific certification.

With a weight of 7,200kg, and a length of 6m, it is also easily transported. Another motor located inside the turret drives a pump that provides hydraulic flow for all the platform movements. This model's new features also give it an excellent ability to climb slopes of up to 45°.

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With a working height of up to 20m, and a maximum capacity of 230kg, this unit provides the same performance as the diesel-powered model, but with the considerable advantage of a reduction in total cost of ownership (TCO) of an estimated 20 per cent compared to the internal combustion engine equivalent (fuel cost included). François Desbrière, head of platform development at Manitou, describes this innovation: “This model responds to strong demand from rental companies, and more generally from various constructors.

With the 200 ATJ e Oxygen, we offer a versatile machine with very good autonomy.

The electric motor provides flexibility when traveling, optimising operator safety”.

Repeat Performance The guiding principle has been to maintain the Manitou DNA throughout the machine.

Heavy duty axles and front axle with limited slip, for example, allow the user to always have a full traction in the two front wheels. In addition, an oscillating axle at the front of the machine, and the manual locking of the differential on the rear axle,

allows the weight to be distributed equally to each of the two driving axles, and improves traction on slippery surfaces.

By offering a 100 per cent electric AWP, Manitou believe it has met customers' expectations with products that retain the same capabilities as diesel versions, but satisfy the needs of urban environmental regulations. This 200 ATJ E has been designed to reduce the end user's TCO and is fully integrated into its committed CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) approach.

The unit is suitable for applications in construction sites, industries, ports and airports and, thanks to its non-marking tyres, and electric drive, users can work inside, outside or in city centres, without any restrictions.

i To find out more about the fully electric Manitou 200 ATJ E enter the rdr link direct into your browser WWW.RDR.LINK/CV026

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SCISSOR LIFTS The first two models in the new generation of JLG rough-terrain (RT) and electric rough-terrain (ERT) scissor lifts are the 26-ft, 69in. wide 2669 and the 33-ft, 69in. wide 3369, available in diesel engine or battery powered AC electric drive models. The platform delivers 28 per cent more work area, and a zero-platform offset, allowing users to get closer to the work area while bringing more people, tools and material to height and – when it comes to height – the units have full drive at height capability both indoors and out.

25M TELESCOPIC WITH JIB The versatile articulated jib on the Multitel MJE 250 will reach working positions that others can’t. It has a 250kg cage capacity, and four extendable automatic outriggers, with variable stabilisation area, so they can be extended on one or both sides, as well as front and rear. With extended outriggers and 100kg on the basket, the platform guarantees over 14m horizontal outreach on the side and nearly 17m on the rear.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV029

TOWER CRANES

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV027

TRAINING The Level 3 Lift Truck and Powered Access Technician apprenticeship, developed with assistance from the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF), is proving popular.

The new apprenticeship forms part of IPAF’s Roadmap to Qualified MEWP Technician or Engineer Status, with both existing employees in the powered access workforce and new recruits to the industry set to benefit.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV028

TELEMATICS SOLUTION

Two new models have been added to the successful Comansa 21LC series – the 21LC600 and 21LC650 Flat-Top tower cranes. As an evolution of the 21LC550 model, the two options are available with 20 and 25 tonne maximum load, which can be assembled with ranges of between 30 and 80 metres with configurations every 5 metres, allowing a maximum point load of up to 4.95 tonne. Both models incorporate an optional boom configuration that allows the total range to be extended to 85 metres at the tip. Compared with the 21LC550 model, load capacities are on average 16 per cent higher for the 21LC600 and 23 per cent higher for the 21LC650.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV31

From preparing for technical call outs, identifying on-site unsafe behaviours, to proactive energy management, Haulotte’s telematics solution is designed to provide valuable and accurate insights into machinery.The easy to use, SHERPAL fleet management system offers remote access to data and gives a consolidated overview of the status of all assets, whatever the size of the aerial equipment fleet.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV030

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E X C AVAT O R S

RIGHT ON COURSE

T

o get the maximum return on investment, it is important for construction companies to select the right equipment for the job and understand how to use it in the most efficient way. Training all construction workers to effectively use new equipment is an important part of the process. If they are well trained, operators will be able to understand the equipment’s benefits and limitations, work safely and achieve the desired results more quickly with fewer errors.

Consider this example: an operator is working on a project in a newly purchased excavator. While they have experience in operating many models of excavators, they have not been given adequate training in the

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Chris Walsh, Professional Services & Training Lead at SITECH UK & Ireland, explains how site managers can get the most from their equipment by training their workforce use of a new 3D guidance system. While working, the operator receives an error message on screen indicating “base coordinates changed”. The operator disregards the message and continues to excavate material because they do not understand the implications of ignoring the message. A few hours later, the operator realises the level of the surface being formed is incorrect because the corrections received are coming from another GNSS base station from a nearby site. The inaccuracy results in rework, costing time and money.

Investing in correct initial training allows site managers to lay a solid foundation of knowledge across the entire workforce. Operators can look to industry experts for training support that will help them gain an understanding about the technology they use. Construction workers can gradually build their skills to help unlock the full operating potential of the machinery and quickly pick up new software and technology as it enters the market.

For example, if an area has been designated as a “no go zone” on site, due to buried services or overhead cables, at design level we can create a perimeter around the area and designate it as an “avoidance zone”.

If an excavator comes within a set distance of the avoidance zone, an alarm will trigger in the cab and a notification will appear on

screen to warn the operator of the potential hazard. Training the operator to understand what the alarm means and how to deal with it can prevent damage to utilities, wildlife and overhead structures.

Training the Workforce Site managers should plan employee training sessions by reviewing the needs of their operators and their roles, for example, operators will need training after purchasing new equipment, such as an excavator. To get full use out of an excavator’s new cut and fill indicators, operators must know how to correctly respond to the software’s signals. If site managers are unsure of how to access training material, they can consult industry experts, such as SITECH UK & Ireland. These training providers offer a range of courses, from basic to advanced levels, and can cover a range of software uses, such as mapping and applying an offset, as well as discussing the system’s general functionality.

Take this example – a construction business has invested in a new excavator that can be placed in an automatic mode, but the excavator operators have not received any training in automatics. When used for the first time, the operator finds the autos slow and rigid in performance through the full motion, and so chooses not to use it going forward.

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When the site manager becomes aware that the team are not using the technology to its full potential, they can bring experts into the company to train the staff on when to engage autos and how to calibrate automatics for different types of material. Operators can then allow guidance software, such as Trimble Earthworks to control the boom, stick and bucket in a smooth and efficient motion.

Operators can use this knowledge to accurately achieve a consistent grade in much less time, increasing their productivity and boosting the business’ return on investment.

As the lockdown lifts, we will see training group sizes slowly increase, but also a more long-term shift in how businesses want their training delivered. Many customers are preferring the convenience of trainers going to their sites or offices to train their employees, rather than making them travel to training centres.

Alternatively, some businesses enjoy the enhanced experience of a training centre, such as SITECH’s new venue in Norton Canes.

Centres like this offer different training

systems, such as the Tenstar simulation, which allows operators to see and feel how the excavation equipment works in a classroom environment before they step foot on an expensive piece of equipment. Training companies may have to be more flexible in their offering to meet post-pandemic preferences of individual customers.

As companies begin to use more advanced technologies, such as augmented reality (AR) cameras, we’ll also see a more diverse range of training techniques. AR technology can be mounted onto the outside of machines to provide different perspectives of the site, so operators and site managers can overlay the 3D design topology on the viewing screen and edit the transparency, while keeping site condition clearly in view.

Being fully trained on this technology can give operators better understanding of the work required and enhance communication between the site and office.

Operators can also be trained on new mapping technology. Automated mapping generates an isopach that relates to the amount of excavated material and the software seamlessly transfers this data between the site and office. Understanding the benefits of the technology, through training, helps reduce human error, prevent the need for rework and allows site managers to gain a better understanding of the status of ongoing work by obtaining daily cut and fill reports.

Ensuring that operators can accurately control equipment and are confident with new technologies enables construction companies to get the most from their machines, keep their people safe and ultimately become more productive.

i To find out more about SITECH training WWW.RDR.LINK/CV032

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JOINING FORCES M odern machine control systems promise a number of advantages for operators, and the same can be said for tiltrotators. Today, a global collaboration between Engcon and Volvo will now allow fleet managers to get all the benefits from both tools. The tiltrotator is very much a mainstay of many continental markets, where the efficiency benefits of eliminating the need to reposition an excavator, together with a consequent reduction in wear and tear, are already well-established.

At the same time they have, of course, been a feature of rail projects in this country for many years, but can be equally beneficial on practically any project. As a result, tiltrotators are a growing class of equipment in the UK, and manufacturers are increasingly joining forces with attachment specialists to bring the benefits of the technology to the fore.

At the heart of this partnership is Engcon's eML (engcon Machine Link) and Volvo Smart Connect, and the goal is to offer machines with tiltrotators and safe quick hitches as an integral part of the machine.Via a smart interface, the Swedish attachments specialist’s control system can communicate with the excavator’s computer for both control of the tiltrotator and integration with Volvo's own developed machine control system, Dig Assist.

Volvo Construction Equipment and Engcon are employing advanced technologies to significantly improve the operational efficiency of machines

“With this intelligent solution, Engcon's tiltrotator can become a fully integrated part of the machine and the benefits are many – time savings during installation, retained CE marking and direct assimilation with Volvo Dig Assist to name just a few”, explains Fredrik Eklind, Product Manager at Engcon Control Systems.

By communicating via CANbus (Controller Area Network), information can be securely and quickly sent and received from Engcon's own DC2 control system to an OEM's computer and machine control system – all with a simple electrical installation. “It is the result of a close collaboration and the integration of several advanced solutions, the tiltrotator, the machine and machine control system,” continues Eklind.

“This has extended so far that, with the next Dig Assist update, the customer will be able to clearly see that it is an Engcon product that is connected via the tiltrotator in Dig Assist's graphical interface using Engcon's signature colour. Other smart and exciting features that will benefit the end user can also be

anticipated with this forthcoming update.”

The Engcon eML and Volvo Smart Connect project has resulted in the first compatible machines – an updated EC250 E and EC300 E – reaching the workshops and Volvo, destined for Engcon's customers during the first quarter of 2021. The ambition is that in the course of this year more of the original equipment manufacturer’s machines will be available with the Volvo Smart Connect option, and that together the two companies can continue the development of intelligent and integrated solutions.

i Volvo Smart Connect is the manufacturer’s open interface for collaborative tool manufacturers, which enables an Engcon tiltrotator with DC2 control system to be installed and integrated with a compatible and prepared excavator.

For further information WWW.RDR.LINK/CV033

i For further information on the EC250 E and EC300 E from Volvo Construction Equipment WWW.RDR.LINK/CV034

i For further information on Engcon’s Tiltrotator range WWW.RDR.LINK/CV035

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Take control Thanks to a collaboration with Leica Geosystems, the first Liebherr excavator with factory-fitted machine control technology to roll from the production line has landed in the UK

T

he construction sector is experiencing a period of major disruptive changes, and digital technologies will be one of the driving forces of its transformation.

Whether it’s in the realms of productivity, safety, labour shortages, or collaboration between the office and field, machine control can help contractors make significant gains, and a UK company is amongst the first to benefit from an easy to use and integrated solution from Liebherr and Leica Geosystems.

An R 934 G8 crawler, the first to leave the factory in France since the two industry leaders joined forces last year, has been added to the fleet at Derbyshire-based Brad-Pave. It is equipped with the Leica 3D passive system soon to be updated to include automatic inclination/rotation function.

The company, which employs just four people and specialises in road construction, deep drainage and earthmoving, was in the market to replace another manufacturer’s 30tonne excavator and a visit to the Liebherr stand at the Bauma show in Munich in 2019 was enough to convince director Paul Bradshaw that he’d found the ideal machine.

“When I saw the new Generation 8 excavators, they just looked the part. It was immediately apparent that an already quality product had been massively improved. My mind was made up straight away.”

Integrated Solution While awaiting delivery, Mr Bradshaw began fine-tuning additional specification with GPS and Steelwrist to match the outgoing machine. However, he quickly modified his plans when the partnership with Leica was announced and negotiations with Liebherr Great-Britain ensured the order could be amended to include the Leica option.

With an operating weight of almost 38.5 tonnes, the machine arrived in the UK towards the end of 2020 when Steelwrist fitted what would be another world ‘first’, an X32 tiltrotator on 80mm pins, to take the total package to just over 40 tonnes.

“We’ve used GPS guidance for a number of years and having the opportunity to have an integrated system on a Liebherr excavator was an ideal scenario for us,” continued Mr Bradshaw. “We are hoping that one of the benefits of taking this option will be the increased reliability of a built-in system. We realised the benefits of using GPS many years ago. Not only does it do away with the requirement for traditional setting-out but it is almost 100 per cent fool-proof. The addition of the Leica Co-Pilot system controlling the Steelwrist will just make any project that little bit quicker and more accurate.”

“In the digital age, construction autonomy such as machine control systems for earthmoving machines are becoming increasingly important,” says Thomas Haas, Head of Product Management at Liebherr.

“Through the strategic partnership with Leica Geosystems, we can now offer state-of-the-art integrated solutions directly from our factory.”

The collaboration will include Liebherr wheeled and crawler excavators (generations 6 and 8) with factory installed Leica iXE2 2D and iXE3 3D as an option.

i For further information on BradPave WWW.RDR.LINK/CV036

i For further information on the partnership between Liebherr and Leica Geosystems WWW.RDR.LINK/CV037

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MINI EXCAVATOR The latest addition to Komatsu’s MR‐5 range has arrived in the shape of the EU Stage V PC24MR‐5 mini. New and improved customer-focussed features include a seat belt indicator, an easily accessible secondary shut down switch and protected PPC levers. There’s also fingertip proportional controls and a hydraulic quick coupler line and a large, ergonomically designed operating environment.

MIDI EXCAVATOR

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV040

Purchasers of a Komatsu PC88MR-11 midi excavator can benefit from a factory-fitted Lehnhoff Powertilt as an option. There’s also low fuel consumption from the powerful EU Stage V engine (50.7 kW / 68hp), a tight tail swing makes it ideal for confined areas, and a redesigned blade makes for better dozing.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV038

COMPACT PLANT Gloucestershire plant hirer Rocket Rentals has invested in a fleet of 46 new JCB machines, including a fleet of 18Z-1, 57C-2 and 86C-2 compact excavators.

The new cab and larger display on the Dash 2 series 86C-2 midi excavators have been a particular hit with the rental firm.

The LiveLink telematics system is another bonus and is described by the hirer as “an excellent fleet management tool both in terms of monitoring machine performance and service requirements.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV042

VACUUM EXCAVATORS

TELEMATICS An API (application programming interface), such as the Hitachi Global e-Service, means owners of mixed fleets are able to access all of their machine data on one platform. As a result, contractors can view data either on their existing OEM-supplied platform or on independent fleet management software. It allows the applications of different OEMs to communicate with one another, ultimately providing data that can be more easily interrogated and analysed.

Dyer & Butler, a part of the M Group Services Transport Division, has introduced a fleet of remote controlled, miniature vacuum excavators to its plant and fleet portfolio. The Vac-Ex AIR-VAC II excavators, ensure that services are safely exposed and reduce the potential risk of utility strikes, as well as minimising the potential for significant disruption, environmental damage and expensive delays to projects.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV041

CRAWLER EXCAVATOR With the counterweight and equipment of the Mecalac 15MC tracked crawlerexcavator integrated within the ‘frame print’ there’s a low centre gravity, and it fits within a single traffic lane, offering manoeuvrability and stability regardless of the upper carriage’s rotation angle.

The three-section boom, with an integrated offset, allows the excavator to operate against the track in all upper frame positions, while also reaching out to a maximum working range of 8.8m.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV043

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV039

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NEW PRODUCTS

ELECTRIC SOLUTIONS Construction sites without exhaust emissions and with extremely low sound levels?

Thanks to Wacker Neuson it’s becoming a reality. From internal vibrators for concrete consolidation to the fully electric EZ17e 1.7 metric ton mini excavator, the company has a broad portfolio of zero emission solutions, including the DW15e electric dumper. You can find a video on an emission-free application for electirc machines in Vienna by using the rdr.link below.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV044

PUMPS A one-stop pumping solution is how Obart Pumps is describing the complete range of pump accessories and fittings under the ‘FIT&FLOW’ brand name. Comprising 70 different products, the range includes hoses, couplings and fittings, and is designed to complement its range of submersible and puddle pumps, surface pumps, engine pumps, hand pumps and flood management products.

TILTROTATOR

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV046

WHEEL LOADERS

Edinburgh based groundworks contractor, Keystone Construction has become the first contractor in the UK to have the new Cat TiltRotate system (TRS) fitted to its machine – a Next Generation Cat 308 supplied by Finning UK & Ireland. The TRS8 enables the operator to rotate the bucket 360 degrees continuously with a 40-degree angled tilt, which reduces the need to reposition the machine, saving time and reducing wear.

In case of imminent accident, a new brake assistant system for Liebherr wheel loaders reduces stopping distance. Thanks to the active personnel detection on the L 526 to L 586 XPower machines the brake assistant automatically slows the speed of the wheel loader to a standstill the moment the active personnel detection issues a warning signal. The incident map displays potential risk zones on the site using GPS data in LiDAT – Liebherr’s in-house transfer and location system.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV045

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV047

AD INDEX Bobcat .................................................. (page 13)

Merlo UK Limited ................................ (page 21)

Doosan ............................................ (back cover)

Point of Rental ...................... (Inside front cover)

Genie .................................................... (page 31)

Snorkel .................................................. (page 32)

JCB Limited .......................................... (page 15)

Takeuchi Mfg (UK) Limited .................. (page 28)

Liebherr .................................................. (page 4)

Kubota UK Limited .............................. (page 23)

Manitou UK .......................................... (page 10)

Yanmar .................................................. (page 27)

Manitowoc Cranes UK Limited ............ (page 18)

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CCTV TOWERS The VPS Group has expanded its sustainable and carbon-neutral CCTV security options. Its CCTV Smart Towers provide fully autonomous 24/7 security and monitoring solutions requiring no external power sources. As well as low-carbon hydrogen and methanol energy fuel cells, solar panels options have been extended.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV048

COMPACT HANDLING EQUIPMENT GEM Plant Sales, based in Ashford, Kent, has been appointed a distributor for Cast Loaders and Worky-Quads covering London (South of the Thames), Kent, East and West Sussex, Hampshire and Surrey. The Cast 33T Loader with telescopic boom is powered by a Kubota D1305 30 bhp engine. Standard features include hydrostatic 4wheel drive, 10 function joy-stick controls and electric diff lock. The zero emissions and battery powered Model 800 Eco has a 4-wheel hydrostatic drive, complete with telescopic boom.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV050

QUICK HITCH COUPLERS

LIGHT COMPACTION There will be seven different product families and 37 models in the Bobcat Light Compaction product line, the result of a collaboration with the Ammann Group. From vibratory rammers weighing 29kg up to 2.6 tonne tandem rollers, the range also includes vibratory forward plates, reversible vibratory plates, hydrostatic plates, walk behind rollers, trench rollers and tandem rollers. To view a video on the new Bobcat Light Compaction offering enter the rdr link below into your browser.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV049

Foyle and Marine Dredging recently utilised Hill Engineering Tefra quick hitches on a rock armour project. A positive locking system makes it the safest coupler on the market and the units are designed to complement excavators ranging in size from two to 120 tonnes. At Foyle’s, it was used on a 120-tonne rated EX1200 during the repairs to the revetment and construction of a new 140m-long concrete toe beam at Portrush harbour’s north pier by civil engineers McLaughlin and Harvey. The job required the placement of 11,500m3 of stones ranging in individual weight from 10 to 26 tonnes.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV051

ARTICULATOR ATTACHMENT The excavator-mounted, Groundforce Attachments‘ Articulator 5000, has a lifting capacity of five tonnes and, with 360° endless rotation, can manipulate, manoeuvre and rotate steel masts, beams, poles, timber baulks and concrete pipes up to 20m long. These include tubular and all-round sections up to 650mm diameter and parallel or tapered box sections, square or oblong or H beams up to 850mm in width.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CV052

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