Construction Plant News March/April 2023

Construction PLANT NEWS

V IEWPOINT

THECURRENT CLIMATE

For many plant hirers and fleet managers supply chain issues have dominated the agenda for far too long.

There is, however, some encouraging signs that the market may well be returning to more sustainable trading conditions, where demand can be satisfied and pressures on costs are eased.

It's not just in machine availability where some consistency is much needed, however, because Whitehall’s vacillating approach to infrastructure spending is causing concern in certain quarters. In particular, the announcement that the Birmingham to Crewe leg of HS2 will be delayed by two years to cut costs.

The Construction-plant Hire Association has already expressed its disappointment that the Chancellor’s decision comes in the wake of previous Whitehall reassurances on large building projects. Not only does it make the prospect of High Speed 2 ever amounting to its original ambitions more doubtful, it equally casts an uncertain hue on any future commitments to the kind of capital spending that is a key driver of growth, not just for the construction industry but the economy at large. The noises on nuclear might be more encouraging but these are not likely to see ground broken for the foreseeable.

At the same time, even with current levels of activity, plant sales remain robust, and many firms that have been deferring the decision to refresh fleets are now in a position to do so – not least because they can now source the necessary machines. In that context the announcement of a full capital expensing scheme for the next three years in the Spring Budget was welcome. It is hoped that this will be a permanent fixture and will extend to the rental sector.

These are relatively small measures in the right direction because there’s a much, much bigger picture, of course, and it’s driven by climate change. A UN report that implored the world to act now on “everything, everywhere all at once,” most certainly

includes the construction sector. Contractors have made huge strides in recent years on environmental governance, and even bigger leaps are to come.

What should also be recognised are the business opportunities that the green economy can now realise. Manufacturers have already devoted many billions to the research and development of cleaner drivetrains – and now the age of diesel is indubitably coming to an end. What comes next is still a matter of debate, but what is clear is that we are set on a sustainable path. What is equally becoming apparent is that the journey can be made smoother with adequate government support.

If you take the example of the red diesel rebate the big stick of removing it –and increasing costs to contractors and plant hirers by a significant margin in the process – has not been complemented by very much carrot. Battery powered equipment is still at a premium and, as you move up the weight scale, there’s still very little choice beyond diesel.

There are, of course, some easy wins, such as reducing idling and cleaner fuels, whilst telematics solutions can improve utilisation levels, but a government subsidy on biofuels, for instance, could go someway to mitigating the aforementioned price implications. One of the reasons that HS2 – a government funded scheme – has witnessed the escalating costs that have resulted in a postponement to part of the build is those very hikes in fuel, a reality which makes the addressing the issue even more sensible.

Editor LEE JONES

ljones@hamerville.co.uk

Editorial Assistant

EDWARD KELLY

ekelly@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

Account Manager

PAUL FITZGERALD pfitzgerald@cpnonline.co.uk

07917324995

Magazine Designer

GEMMA WATSON

Group Production Manager

CAROL PADGETT

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Copyright © 2023

If the construction industry is to meet its net zero targets it needs to do it with out undue damage to the contractors, plant hirers and manufacturers that drive its growth and prosperity With the benefits of sustainability in terms of winning additional work already well embedded in the sector, relatively small but targeted measures from Whitehall could make for significant returns. Total Average Net Distribution 8.329 July 2021 –June 2022

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.

LeeJones, Editor

PLANTWORX 2023, HELD FROM 13TH-15TH JUNE, WILL PROVIDE A PLATFORM FOR START-UPS ENGINEERING THE FUTURE.

THINK BIG

improve efficiency, sustainability, safety, or security. Companies approved for the BIG IDEAS promotion will get an exhibition pod, under the BIG Ideas banner located close to the main entrance of the show and

CONFERENCE TIME

CPA CONFERENCE 2023 TO DISCUSS THE CHALLENGES FACING THE PLANT-HIRE SECTOR

Conference and Awards evening, providing excellent networking opportunities with key decision makers.

For more information

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI001

LOOKING GOOD DATA FOR UK CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT EXPORTS AND IMPORTS LOOKS PROMISING

Data from HMRC, analysed by CEA, shows that in the fourth quarter of 2022, UK exports of construction and earthmoving equipment recorded the highest quarterly level of trade since 2013 in both £ value (£1,288 million) and tonnage shipped terms (205 k tonnes). Imports of construction and earth moving equipment for the year were also at the highest levels recorded since 2013. To read the full report, use the rdr link below.

For more information

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI002

The Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) has announced that the CPA Conference 2023 theme will be ‘Facing the Challenges in the Plant-hire Sector’. There will be a range of speakers from different organisations and delegates will be able to engage with exhibitors from some of the UK’s leading construction plant equipment manufacturers, suppliers and construction services providers.

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI003

GENERATING SUPPORT

GENERATORS DISPATCHED AS RUSSIAN BOMBING CONTINUES

The Plant and Hire Aid Alliance, recently dispatched the latest donation of generators to Ukraine. The shipment included a 100kVA generator and automatic transfer switches to power the central hospital in Oleksandriia, funded by the moving Concert of Warmth and Light. The lorry also carried five generators from MV Kelly, two generators from Tamdown and one kindly donated by a member of the public. It also carried 1,200L of oil for the generators donated by Rock Oil.

To find out more or donate, WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI004

AHELPING HAND

DOOSAN BOBCAT DONATES $1 MILLION IN EQUIPMENT FOR TURKIYE EARTHQUAKE RELIEF AND RECOVERY

The equipment has been delivered through the company’s dealer network to be of practical help in restoring critical infrastructure. The kit supplied includes skid-steer loaders, excavators, portable generators and lighting towers. The donation will be financed in cooperation with parent company, Doosan Group, which has supported previous major disasters with equipment and donations over the past 20-plus years.

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI005 i

BRAND NEW

DOOSAN PORTABLE POWER ANNOUNCES BOBCAT REBRAND

Doosan Portable Power (DPP), manufacturer of air compressors, mobile generators and light towers will rebrand its product offerings under the Bobcat brand. “Bobcat is an iconic brand that changed the world with the invention of the compact equipment industry, and we are excited to unleash the brand in bold, new ways,” said Scott Park, Doosan Bobcat CEO & Vice Chairman.

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI006 i

NEW EQUIPMENT SALES WEBSITE

NEW SITE FOR MACHINERY ACQUISITIONS

Equipment Sales, part of the Euro Auctions Group, has announced the launch of a new website dedicated to the sale of construction, agricultural, commercial machinery and equipment. With a focus on ease of use and accessibility, the site offers buyers and sellers a simple, convenient platform to buy and sell equipment online.

STAY SAFE

NEWLY UPDATED MOBILE ELEVATING WORK PLATFORMS

SAFETY GUIDANCE AVAILABLE TO HELP REDUCE ENTRAPMENT INCIDENTS

A newly updated safety publication is now freely available which provides guidance as to how to reduce the risks of trapping and crushing hazards when using MEWPs. Published by the Construction Industry Plant Safety Group (CIPSG), the 22-page publication is entitled ‘Good Practice Guidance for Reducing Trapping/Crushing Injuries to People in MEWPs’. The group is chaired by the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) and administered and supported by the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF).

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI009 i

SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS

ENGINE REBUILD DEMAND ALMOST TRIPLES AS CUSTOMERS SEEK COST-EFFECTIVE SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS

Power generation experts at Finning, the world’s largest dealer of Cat power solutions, have seen a 176 per cent rise in demand for engine overhauls between 2019 and 2022 as customers push to reach net zero targets whilst looking to minimise capital expenditure. The company has created a programme of overhaul options based on maintenance intervals that includes a complete Cat Certified engine rebuild to a top end overhaul.

For further information

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI007 i

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI010 i

START YOUR ENGINES!

HYUNDAI DOOSAN INFRACORE TO MASS-PRODUCE HYDROGEN INTERNAL COMBUSTION

ENGINES IN 2025

Hyundai Doosan Infracore is accelerating engine development after finishing the design of hydrogen internal combustion engines and rolling out the prototype. The hydrogen unit is an 11-litre class engine that produces a power output of 300kW and a torque of 1700Nm at 2000 rpm. It satisfies Stage 5 regulations and Zero Impact Emission (Zero Emission in EU). A single charge of 10 minutes enables a distance of up to 500 km. Hydrogen is one of the alternative drivetrains that manufacturers are developing for a post-diesel age.

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI008 i

ONTREND

To say we’ve been living in strange days of late would be something of an understatement. From the relative optimism of late 2019, through the post-apocalyptic emptiness of our pandemic streets, to a subsequent boom that has put such pressure on supply chains, second guessing the market has become a challenge to say the least.

It is that latter reality that has seen an increase in demand for used equipment, with the inherent price rises it entails. It also makes heavy equipment companies likes Ritchie Bros ideally placed to identify the latest developments, and it’s Used Equipment Market Trends Report is an invaluable document in communicating that insight.

As ever it is a mix of local and international factors that shapes purchasing decisions. In the UK exchange rates have been very low, for example, which has encouraged the movement of machinery abroad. At the same time, as far as new equipment is concerned, there’s an improving picture when

it comes to production line problems. “What we’re hopefully seeing is a transition to more ‘normal’ trading conditions with a sustainable level of supply and demand easing the pressure on prices,” explains Rupert Craven, UK and Ireland Sales Director at Ritchie Bros.

Machine availability

“There is no doubt that more machinery has been available in Q4 of 2022 and into Q1 of 2023. For hirers and contractors who –having previously deferred the decision – are now in position where they need to refresh their fleets, that’s good news. At the same time many of these machines have been used pretty hard through the covid era, accruing some significant hours as a result.”

Mini excavators are the core component of any rental fleet, as well as a housebuilding industry which has experienced growth in the last couple of years, not to mention infrastructure. It is, therefore, no surprise that compact equipment is on a continuing upward trend. With governments around the world investing in the built environment –often in sizeable projects – specialist and heavy machinery is equally at a premium. Moreover, events in one region can have global implications. Generators have seen large increases as a direct result of the Ukraine war, for instance. With significant areas of the country cut off from the grid after the Russian invasion, Ukrainian buyers and relief organisations have been importing

the company’s Rupert Craven about some of the key findings.

large numbers of these units into the country.

Rupert also reports that tandem rollers have seen large increases in value: “These machines clock up relatively few hours – which means contractors and hirers can hang onto them for longer – whilst they have witnessed the same supply problems that the rest of the plant industry has faced. With a dearth of availability of both old and new that inevitably precipitates a price jump.”

Pressure on rates

These economic realities place hirers in that all-too familiar conundrum of increased prices but with little or no ability to increase their own rental rates. As a result, the equipment market is having to think differently about how it utilises assets, as well its inputs and outputs more generally. At the same time one consequence of an inability to buy new machines has seen contractors turning to hirers more frequently.

The flip side of that has been incentives from government – including the super deduction tax – where 130% of the original equipment cost could be put off against tax, which has made purchasing plant more attractive for construction companies. That scheme came to an end on 31st March with the Chancellor announcing a successor in his Spring Budget. Its latest iteration is a full

capital expensing initiative which will exist for the next three years and allow every pound a company invests in plant or machinery to be deducted.

Over the lifetime of the super deduction scheme, however, there has been consistent calls from the likes of the Construction Planthire Association (CPA) for the initiative to be extended to rental firms, who have always been excluded. At the time of writing, it is currently unclear if the full capital expensing programme will be open to that sector.

“One factor that is certainly driving demand is the introduction of more advanced technologies,” Rupert reveals. “The likes of intelligent control, GPS, camara arrays and stop/start functionality are no longer luxuries but hold an intrinsic value of their own. Indeed, there are some contractors who will demand that these systems are utilised on their projects. Dual view cameras weren’t in the market five years ago, for example, but are now very popular.”

That’s not the only change in the offing because the auction experience for a buyer or seller is now very different. As with every sector the pandemic has shifted business online, and Ritchie Bros has been quick to respond. As an example, when the auction

company acquired IronPlanet in 20217 it launched Marketplace-E. This online buy now or make an offer platform is available 24/7, and 365 days of the year, and that’s in addition to the eight online auction events Ritchie Bros. holds at its Maltby site in South Yorkshire. Moreover, Ritchie Bros.’ Mascus allows sellers to list machines online and process the sale themselves. Rupert continues: “However, our customers want to buy or sell we want to provide a solution that’s right for them, based on their needs and preferences.”

“Ritchie Bros. is a marketplace for machinery,” Rupert concludes. “We thrive on change and advances in technology, as well as any incentives that legislators introduce to purchase. Most importantly, what we and the wider industry require is an environment where equipment can be changed regularly and consistently.”

To access the Ritchie Bros Used Equipment Market Trends Report WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI 011

For further information on upcoming auctions WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI 012

“Ritchie Bros is a marketplace for machinery. We thrive on change and advances in technology.”

Addicts

he JCB LiveLink journey began back in 2007. Today, someone logs into the telematics platform every 2.2 seconds with over 83,000 users globally, and more than 400,000 connected assets on any given day. “Rather than connecting to a machine, we’re connecting to a customer,” explains Tom Whitaker, General Manager of Product Support based at JCB’s expansive World Parts Centre. “And the guiding principle is an improved end user experience.”

The LiveLink team want JCB’s customers to be able to access quantifiable value from across their entire fleet, including the

operators who own multiple brands. That’s why the system is designed to bring in data from other OEM machines – with more than 20 already integrated into one easily accessible portal. Not only that, but assets from product groups that JCB doesn’t even manufacture can be included too – such as welfare units, grading equipment, and even piling rigs.

Analytical Tool

LiveLink is an analytical tool that allows JCB users to increase their uptime, reduce admin in their business, minimise costs, increase safety and help them make better decisions about the management of their fleet. One of its key features, for example, is to alert customers when they need to take action, with all the alerts that an individual machine has issued viewable, as well as any documents that are stored against it. LiveLink is, in fact, a great storage mechanism for anything from LOLER certificates for lifting equipment to oil sampling data.

No two customers are the same, of course – nor indeed are individuals from the same organisations. Maintenance staff will be concerned about the health of the fleet, for instance, whilst safety managers might be looking at issues around improper usage. Alerts can, therefore, be customised to an individual’s own remit, ensuring that what is of most relevance is readily available.

Construction Plant News visits JCB’s World Parts Centre, where the LiveLink system is making all the right connections

So just what functionality is available? All of the information you would expect on a telematics platform is included, from service and maintenance, to hours, fuel usage and CO2 emissions. LiveLink users are increasingly focusing on utilisation data, ensuring that a piece of plant is not over or underutilised and could, for example, be moved to another project or off-hired.

Similarly, many contractors are now targeting idling as a means of reducing both fuel costs and CO2 output and LiveLink can supply that data for individual machines or across the whole fleet. Indeed, JCB’s telematics solution can form a key pillar around which a contractor or hirer can build a sustainability strategy. The cost of fuel, based on usage across a single day or any given time period, can be interrogated, for instance, and the potential for savings are huge, especially when taking into account the end of the red diesel rebate. The numbers can then be compared across sites, projects, product groups, or regions, allowing trends to be identified. “The vision is to measure the ‘as planned project’ with the ‘as built’”, continues Tom. “’Did we use more fuel than anticipated and why?’ If the answer to that is yes, then LiveLink can facilitate an intervention at a much earlier stage of the build schedule protecting what are often very fine profit margins.”

Contractors can also gain further insight through a LiveLink rental feature that enables hirers to share visibility of a machine for a period of time with the end client. As a result, builders can see machines within their own LiveLink system that are actually owned by the hirer. In the same way, construction companies working as part of large joint venture infrastructure project can share information on machinery each party owns.

Telematics remains a vital weapon in the fight against theft, which makes geofences and curfews vital security features, whilst geofencing has equally taken on a further site efficiency role in recent years. When a machine has left or entered an area that then acts as a trigger for some form of activity to take place. A further location-based advance has arrived recently with the integration of what3words. The system splits the entire planet into 3m x 3m sections, each of which is given a unique three-word code to describe it, which won’t be used anywhere else in that combination.

Integrated System

With JCB machines often operating in remote locations it means the exact location can be identified without the use of a complex longitude and latitude number reference. It’s then issued to maintenance and service personnel, or delivery drivers and, when accessing LiveLink on an Android and IOS app, directions can be immediately fed into Google or Apple Maps.

Moreover, JCB LiveLink is integrated with the manufacturer’s standard operator app. This allows a customer to set configurable daily checks on an asset, which can be set at the level of an entire organisation, product group – such as excavators or telehandlers –or on an individual site, thereby digitising processes that have too often been paperbased. Operators can access key documents,

updates of the repair status as it progresses can then be viewed, and when it’s been completed. The result is complete transparency, from when the engineer is setting off, to awaiting parts.

“The end game is an eco-system where the right people get the right information in an easily digestible format,” concludes Tom. “The demise of red diesel, the rising cost of fuel, and the scarcity of labour has increased the added value of telematics incrementally, and the willingness of our customers to engage with it has expanded in parallel.”

“The end game is an eco-system where the right people get the right information in an easily digestible format”

BEST FLEET FORWARD

Descartes outlines four surprising benefits of logistics software for construction

Route optimisation, tracking, AI, yard management and proof of delivery (PoD) technology can make big differences in surprising ways for those running construction sites. Andrew Tavener, Head of Marketing Descartes Fleet Solutions in Europe explains how these technologies support operational efficiencies and cut costs.

Cloud-based vehicle tracking software is fast becoming the staple for plant, site and fleet managers to streamline efficiencies, reliability and performance and also for simply knowing where everything is at any given time. In today’s challenging operating environment, the advantages can save time and money. Some of the less-known advantages of this software, however, are equally attractive for plant managers and contractors.

1 Reduces Damage in Transit

There is nothing worse than receiving essential products for a build that are cracked, broken or ruined. For construction projects any damage in transit is expensive, not just in terms of the time it takes to replace the order but also because of the knock-on effect it has on project schedules

and extending timeframes, increasing labour costs and causing delays. It also means the Plant Manager will need to quickly reorganise a re-delivery at a cost to a construction site. What if the damage could be prevented by understanding how it occurs? For example, data can be used to measure damage rates, which uses analytics to identify and rectify improper loading or handling practices.

Proof of Delivery software means tracking accountability at every touchpoint for transparency over who was responsible at any given time for securing the order safely. This can include picture evidence of delivery and signatures. With a mix of analytics, accountability and making essential checks, damaged goods in transit will diminish.

2 Addresses Driver Shortages

Blame it on Brexit or Covid-19 or simply declining recruitment, driver shortages have rattled the Transport sector. Route optimisation and delivery scheduling software can really help here, because it essentially enables vehicles to deliver more in fewer miles, meaning the drivers working with you are used optimally. Route optimisation software will help increase delivery capacity minimising the need to recruit new drivers.

As well as looking for new incentives to attract new drivers, fleet managers should also address boosting driver productivity and retain the drivers they have on the books. Retaining drivers is easier if you reduce their stress with realistic delivery schedules, with optimised routes. The routes are properly scoped to include driving conditions, road networks and legal drivers’ hours limits to ensure road safety and legal compliance. The data enables realistic delivery times, and the real-time communications ensure any hiccups on the road are relayed back and built into the fluid planning. With AI now in the mix, it can be worked out how productive each driver is (newbie vs seasoned) and adjust for the capability to avoid stress.

3 Drives Sustainability

Analytics can measure utilisation, fuel consumption and vehicle performance. Software can work out when you have poor fuel economy and which vehicles and drivers (and even their specific driving habits) need to be improved. Route optimisation also means that you cut down on unnecessary miles, petrol and road time, all of which tick those boxes for greener operations. Last-mile delivery becomes a kind of art form with the latest technology. Reducing carbon emissions and fuel consumption through smart routing sees obvious sustainability benefits and there is also the reduction of paperwork with digital solutions, which is an aim for a less wasteful future.

4 Handles Challenges of Site Delivery

GPS-tracking software makes it easy to keep track of the supply chain in real-time. Coupled with good communications, site managers will always know exactly when the delivery is going to arrive, to plan ahead for receiving it, so there are no more surprises as deliveries turn up and no one is prepared or even available to receive them. Worse still, is when an order is left in the wrong place onsite, adding another little logistical nightmare to sort out.

Further to this, with dedicated Yard Management software, it’s possible to manage, plan and record trailer moves,

inspections and security seal changes with an audit trail for loss prevention and for government compliance programs such as Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT). By linking the software for the designated storage area or yard to transportation software it’s possible to automate door assignments for trucks entering and leaving and empty trailers can be assigned. The software essentially reduces any potential for bottlenecks, unused vehicles and trailers, and makes management of confusing sites less reactive and more planned.

Rigorous inventory checking when loading and unloading is another benefit of cloudbased software, making sure that builders are never left short of materials from miscounted orders, or ‘light fingers’, along the way.

Yard management, route optimisation, tracking, AI and Proof of Delivery software can be used in conjunction and viewed as essentially one holistic management system for operations. Every driver, every vehicle, every route and most importantly every order has a level of oversight that you simply cannot accomplish without using this specialised software.

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For more details on the Descartes range of solutions

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI014

PARKINSON PLANT SERVICES GOES BIG

Tom Parkinson, Managing Director of Parkinson Plant Services,chose a used 14 tonne Volvo EC140E crawler excavator for his first foray into larger equipment. This was acquired from SMT GB’s Pelham Milligan. The model had only 4,000 hours on the clock and the supplier carried out a full valet and service of the machine. Tom has been particularly impressed with its fuel efficiency and compact footprint.

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI015

BIGGEST EVER JCB DEAL

JCB has won its biggest ever deal in the UK after rental firm Morris Leslie Plant Hire placed an order for £87.5 million worth of machines – including 50 3CX backhoe loaders. The huge order from the Perth-based company, which operates nationally, will also see them take delivery of excavators, site dumpers, Loadall telescopic handlers and compaction equipment. The order will be supplied by dealer Scot JCB to 14 nationwide depots throughout 2023.

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JPS CONTINUES WITH GREEN INVESTMENT

Tool and plant hire firm JPS is taking major steps towards becoming more sustainable by expanding its already 70% eco-friendly fleet. The firm has recently placed significant orders with Skyjack, Niftylift, Dingli, JLG and Genie for electric and hybrid models. The company has recognised the impact that plant equipment has on the construction industry’s carbon footprint and is investing in cleaner and greener solutions in response.

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WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI017

PF MURPHY & SON’S ACQUIRES FIRST CRAWLER OF ITS KIND

Civil Engineering company, PF Murphy & Son’s, has added a brand new 36tonne R936 Compact Liebherr excavator to its fleet. It is the largest compact crawler excavator of its kind and is the very first model to arrive in the UK and Ireland. Xwatch dealer, Allan J Hargreaves, installed its 2,000th Xwatch System on the excavator. The fitted XW5 system offers height control, slew control, and an RCI (rated capacity indicator).

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WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI018

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STAR POWER INVESTS £3 MILLION IN JCB GENERATORS

The order for 170 JCB generators, placed with Watling JCB, is a central element of a strategy for Star Power to extend its reach through a new network of operational hubs. The order includes new Stage V generators, the first JCB has supplied to the market. These range in capacity from 20kVA to 500kVA and can be run on HVO fuel, reducing CO2 emissions by up to 90%.

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WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI019

JPS ECO WELFARE ACQUISITION

Sustainable eco welfare units are a new investment from JPS, as it continues showing its ongoing commitment towards the environment and supporting the construction industry in becoming carbon net zero. These units are 16ft and 20ft, feature solar hybrid systems, PIRactivated LED lighting, hot water and air blown heating. The low fuel consumption means estimated diesel savings averaging £120 per week.

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SARENS CONTINUES WITH FLEET RENEWAL

Sarens has ordered a large package of all terrain cranes from Tadano for its different European, UK and Australian operations. The order includes the Tadano AC 3.055-1, AC 4.080-1, AC 5.130-1 and more. Six E-Packs for use with the AC 3.055-1 and AC 4.080-1 cranes are also included, helping the company’s commitment to minimise its carbon footprint.

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SUNBELT RENTALS ORDERS

SUSTAINABLE LIGHTING

Adding to its already 2,000 strong Trime lighting fleet, Sunbelt Rentals has invested in three hundred X-Solar solarpowered lighting towers. These towers are a more environmentally focussed solution with zero emissions and fuel usage. Additionally, they feature four 60watt energy-saving LED lamps fitted to a fully galvanised 8.5-metre mast, delivering a light coverage of 2000 square metres.

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GREAT &SMALL

The father and son team at Charlbrook Construction are thoroughly converted to Takeuchi. Construction Plant News visited them on site to find out more about their recent investment in the manufacturer’s TB325R mini excavator.

in the building game. When he heard that the short tail swing TB325R was available he immediately got in touch with local dealer, Bow Plant Sales, who represent the Japanese manufacturer’s range from Herefordshire through to Coventry, Birmingham and the West Midlands.

“I can’t sing the praises of Bow Plant Sales enough. Given all the supply issues the industry’s been experiencing, they were able to deliver us what we wanted within about six weeks of first contact. We are looking to invest in a 1-tonne Takeuchi in the future and we’ll be returning to the same dealer.”

Transport-friendly

From their Worcestershire base, the fourman team, plus a trusted group of subbies, undertake work predominately in their

home county, and neighbouring Warwickshire, but have equally reached as far afield as Suffolk. With a digger that weighs in at 2,440kg – and can comfortably be towed on a 3.5 tonne rated pick up or van, together with attachments and materials – their trusty Takeuchi can also travel with them, but it’s also a nimble mover on site.

“The short tail swing is ideal for use on tight residential housebuilding jobs and when you’re digging out the footings for extensions on an existing property. At the same time, there’s absolutely no discernible reduction in breakout force. We’ve won a contract for some commercial jobs with the local council and it had the muscle to dig off over 120 tonnes of tarmac from a school playground renovation. We’ve also undertaken drainage and landscaping works, so there’s an

impressive level of versatility. One other thing I really like about it is the longer than average track frame which enhances the level of stability. It feels really planted – even on uneven or soft ground.”

With a land clearance rake, ripping tooth, bush rake, and a riddle bucket, on order from Harford Attachments – all of which are quickly, easily and safely interchangeable with the Hill Engineering Tefra Quick Hitch with which the machine was supplied – that flexibility in use will be extended still further.

It’s that combination of power, manoeuvrability, transportability, and stability that has won the TB325R in particular – and the Takeuchi range in general – many plaudits amongst experienced plant operators. First launched in 2021, Charlbrook Construction’s Takeuchi is fitted with a cab – whilst a canopy version is available. The latter weighs

in at a reduced 2,310kg, meaning even more kit can accompany the excavator on a trailer.

There’s 16.5kW of power, 19.3kN of digging force and breakout of 11.3kN along with a digging depth to 2,540mm and ground reach to 4,350mm. A compact machine footprint of 1,500x1,890mm is complemented by a short tail radius of 825mm and overhang of just 70mm when 90 degrees to the track.

Tom and Dave are fans of the TB325R’s joystick proportional control, and lighting is a big issue for them. “Some of our projects are in remote locations and we’ve been running the Takeuchi in the dark,” continues Tom. “The LED work lights on the cab and the boom provide a great level of visibility.”

“Our TB325R has been with us since September of last year, and it’s a brilliant machine,” concludes Tom. “We’ve driven just about everything in our time and the Takeuchi is the best we’ve had. It’s always going to be a big investment for business of our size but that’s easily outweighed by the savings in hire costs, which can really start to mount up, and having the option to use it whenever you want.

“We started an extension, for instance, and it will dig out the footings then move in the stone – so there’s no labourers with a wheelbarrow. That saves on time, which means we can take on more work, and labour, which reduces costs. We want to expand and having the right equipment in place is integral to those plans.”

For further information on the Takeuchi range WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI 023

BUILDING ON SUCCESS

expanding with major Doosan acquisitions

leading manufacturers.”

One area that all the drivers at Kingsheath Construction commented on was the high build quality of the DX140LC-7. For example, the state-of-the-art cab excels in terms of spaciousness and ergonomics, taking operator comfort and ease of operation to new levels. As well as a new high quality seat, the enhanced cab offers more features as standard than other machines on the market, ensuring super controllability and high precision in all applications.

Nick Earl added: “The build quality of these machines is a massive leap from the machines we have had previously. The DX140LC-7 also offers high comfort and a 180 degree camera system as standard, which we increase to a 360 degree system on every machine, to provide all round safety when using the machines on site.”

“One area that all the drivers at Kingsheath Construction commented on was the high build quality of the DX140LC-7.”

Jamie Pike, Managing Director at Kingsheath Construction, acknowledges the importance of the machinery fleet in the success of the company: “We currently run our own fleet of around 50 machines. The arrival of the new Doosan excavators is the latest in our ongoing investment programme in new plant to ensure our crews have the safest and highest performing machinery on the market. This is combined with our expertise, experience and resources to set the highest possible standards within the industry, delivering a finished product that exceeds expectation.”

Kingsheath Construction can provide a wide range of services including groundworks, demolition, remediation, earthworks and enabling works, RC frame and highway works. Groundworks is a core function of the business, whether continuing on from demolition or enabling works to undertaking a full new build project.The company can offer the full groundworks package with experience in all types of foundations and piling methods, continuing up to substructures and oversites, drainage, services and external finishes.

Powered by the Doosan D34 4-cylinder Stage V diesel engine providing 86 kW (115 HP) of power at 2,000 RPM, the 14.6 tonne DX140LC-7 is one of 11 models in Doosan’s new generation DX-7 range of medium-sized Stage V compliant excavators from 14 to 25 tonne. Like the other DX-7 models, the DX140LC-7 provides significantly higher performance in every area than the previous generation Stage IV machine, offering enhanced comfort, increased tool carrier capability and novel operator assist technology.

Other new features boost fuel efficiency, uptime and return on investment, with a focus on increased power, robustness and

agility. Maintenance of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) has also been greatly reduced, with no maintenance required until the machine has operated for 8,000 hours.

Kellands (Plant Sales) has been a Doosan dealer since 1987 and is the Authorised Dealer for West and South England. As well as Bridgwater, Kellands has depots at Brentwood, Aldershot and Camelford.

In the West, Kellands is responsible for the counties of Bristol, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Scilly. The area covered in the south of England includes Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, the City of London, East Sussex, Essex, Greater London, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, the Isle of Wight, Kent, Surrey and West Sussex.

For more on Doosan construction equipment and the DX-7 range: WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI 024

TAKE

Charge

lti-tasker.”The Harpenden scheme we visited has proven to be a challenging build. A five-storey construction, with two below ground, is further complicated by a gradient front to back and left to right. An adjacent electric sub-station has had to be lowered to the same level as the underground car park, whilst 11 below ground storage tanks have also been installed. The build began in September 2021, a time period that inevitably entailed complications with the pandemic, and the Bridgewater Homes team will complete in June of 2023.

Andrew is full of praise for the JCB’s on the developer’s fleet. “If we hire a machine and it does the job for us – and it looks like we’ll be using the same machine again – then we always prefer to own it. We’re already in possession of an 8.6-tonne JCB 86C-2 excavator, a 3T-2 Site Dumper, and a 14m 540-140 telehandler, as well as the more compact 4m, 520-40 Loadall. We purchase all our plant from Watling JCB and we can’t fault the aftercare and service from them.”

The bright sparks at JCB have delivered an electric mini excavator solution that’s proving indispensable for Bridgewater Homes.

Andrew Cross of Bridgewater Construction

Andrew is himself an operator and has found the 19C-1E to be a user friendly solution. “Across the JCB product portfolio you can be assured of reliability, power, stability and ease of controls, and that’s certainly the case with the electric mini,” he continues. “The battery power also makes it much smoother in operation and the controls are more intuitive. If anything, you get more power than you would from a diesel machine.”

The 19C-1E has various charging cable solutions to suit your application, as well as single phase and three phase, all of which ensures the machine is there when you need it, as Andrew explains: “We’ve been charging overnight and do seem to get a full shift from it. Although there is a cost differential between diesel and electric excavators, you do equally have to factor in the increased cost of fuel, particularly with the end of the red diesel rebate, because the white is now three times the price.”

“It can take a bit of time to get used to –with the absence of any noise rather strange at first – but at the same time it certainly makes for a better experience for the operator, especially with the full cab – and anyone working in the vicinity.”

The material handling dexterity of the electric mini, working in tandem with the 520-40 telehandler, has proven invaluable in off-loading from trucks to bring it down the ramp to the underground car park. “The compact telehandler is also a highly manoeuvrable machine that’s done everything we’ve asked of it. It makes the

turn into the underground car park easily and fits underneath. It’s the only place in the whole build that we can utilise for storage so it’s really cut down on manual handling around site. They’re certainly the best telehandlers and you really can’t go wrong with the 535 telehandler either. Having the electric mini here as well give us more options, especially in underground areas.”

Sustainability

The 19C-1E is zero emissions at the point of use, with drastically reduced noise levels in operation. A significantly simplified powertrain means daily checks and maintenance are reduced. Moreover, electricity is much cheaper than the white diesel that contractors are now compelled to adopt on site and it’s eminently suited for work in confined spaces, in urban areas, or sensitive locations.

There’s three options to charge the unit’s 4 battery pack – 110V, 230V and 415V – whilst levels of charge can be constantly monitored via a gauge on the instrument panel.The ability to be able to hear your colleagues easier on site shouldn’t be underestimated from a safety perspective, not to mention the inherent improvements to the working environment, with noise at the operator station a significant 10dB less than its diesel counterpart. That opens up the possibility of ‘out-of-hours’ working which could in itself speed up a job and improve levels of productivity.

The canopy or cab is ROPS, TOPS and FOGS certified and the 100% steel bodywork will withstand the toughest of sites with a full width rear cast counterweight giving full protection against damage. The extending undercarriage beams are also constructed from 25mm solid steel plate. “In the time we’ve been using the 19C-1E there does seem to be a number of advantages for owners and operators,” concludes Andrew. Indeed, a machine that’s in tune with our drive to net zero is making for an electric atmosphere on site!

For further information on the JCB 19C-1E electric mini excavator WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI 025

To find out more about the 520-40 Loadall WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI026

“The 19C-1E is zero emissions at the point of use, with drastically reduced noise levels.”

Construction Plant News puts the questions to CASE on the new D-Series mini excavator range

CX15EV features the same ultra-compact dimensions of its diesel equivalent (CX14D), the same stability and equivalent engine torque, but higher peak engine power (up to 16kW vs 8,8kW), which is equivalent to a 2-ton diesel engine MHEX. It is fully electro-hydraulic and, through its electronic display, it is possible to personalise each single movement of the machine independently – a characteristic that makes this model fully customisable according to application and operator skills and preferences. This is a significantly higher technology vs equivalent diesel models which feature servo-hydraulic joysticks + electro-proportional roller switches controlling boom swing and auxiliary circuits. Engine speed is controlled by selecting one of the three available work modes:

Power (P): max 2,800 rpm

Standard (S): max 2,600 rpm

Eco (E): max 2,400 rpm

As a result, there’s no need to have a throttle.

Do you think contractors and hirers have fully considered the cost saving implications of reduced levels of maintenance and replacement parts in battery powered equipment?

E XCAVATORS

The cost saving implications go beyond the basic concept that electric motors have fewer parts than diesel engines – with maintenance and repair costs greatly reduced.

In fact:

The battery does not require any routine maintenance and is internally protected from overcharging

It provides great accessibility to battery/electric motor compartment thanks to tiltable seat (on CX15EV)

It features the most advanced technology in terms of power demand management on the market. Unlike competitor machines, CX15EV uses no energy at all when it is in stand-by since no oil circulates through the system until a joystick or lever is actioned.

QWhat impact has the end of the red diesel rebate had on the adoption and interest in electric solutions?

A big impact. There has been a boost in the past 2-3 years for all construction equipment OEMs to find an alternative to diesel. Electric construction equipment is not really a novelty of the last few years; we have seen concepts quite early, but now every single OEM is offering, or going to offer, alternative propulsion models.

For mini excavators electric technology is a great fit. What will make the difference in this race between OEMs will be the time to market to deliver a performing machine with adequate autonomy and fast charging to allow customers to get the job done. We believe that with our CX15EV and CX25EV we can compete at the front of this race.

QWhat other options are available? Ie zero tail swing, retractable tracks, cab or canopy, twopiece boom, cameras and work lights?

The D-Series line-up has a great deal of smart and high technological features. Here is a list with a few of the most important:

12 Zero-Tail swing models, covering all segments

Best in the industry offering of 2 pieceboom models: 4 starting from 2 ton

Up to 3 auxiliary circuits with electroproportional controls which make these models extremely versatile to mount a great variety of quick couplers and attachments offered ex-factory or through Case After Market services. Mulcher provision with a dedicated pump which can grant constant independent flow to the attachment, plus a direct drainage to tank

9 models with extendable undercarriage

Comfort of the Cab version offered starting from CX17D, quite unusual in the industry for machines of this size

Canopy version offered up to CX35D Air Conditioning offered as early as the 2,2 ton model: CX22D

2 arm lenghts

LED working lights

Rear-view cameras from CX42D to CX65D ...and much more to be discovered.

QWhich models would you identify as rental spec and those suitable for owner/operators?

For rental the main European segments are the 1 ton (where we offer the CX12D), the 1.8 ton (where we offer CX17D and CX18D), the 2.5 ton (where we offer the CX25D), the 3.5 ton (where we offer the CX35D) and the 5 ton (where we offer the CX50D).

I also believe that the electric machines can be a great fit for rental in particular in those countries in which sustainability is a paramount for contractors to be able to apply and work for any jobs inside cities. It is not a coincidence, in fact, that we have started with a 1,5 ton and a 2,5 ton to develop alternative propulsion models.

For further information on the CASE D-Series range: WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI 027

WHEELED EXCAVATORS

A four-model E-Series wheeled excavator range has been announced by CASE, with a fifth, larger model joining the series in the future. The machines will be built under an existing supply agreement with Hyundai Construction Equipment. The line-up will include conventional tail swing and short radius models, operating on a Cummins Stage V diesel engine.

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CRAWLER EXCAVATORS

Two new crawler excavators from SANY – the SY215C-XD (24-tonne) and the SY390H-XD (40-tonne) – are available to order with factory fitted advanced hydraulic systems and heavyduty attachments. They also feature hammer shear and rotate lines and advanced systems that enable easy changeover of attachments.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

REMOTE CONTROL

An advanced Short Range Remote Control solution designed by Volvo CE and CE Engineering Solutions is now offered on request on the EC250E, EC300E and EC350E excavators. The technology, which can operate over a 100-metre distance, provides a powerful solution for customers working in difficult jobsites or environments.

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STRAIGHT BOOM EXCAVATOR

Built for rugged and reliable operation, the new Cat 352 Straight Boom Excavator is designed specifically for work up to five storeys high. Its stick/boom configuration delivers a higher vertical reach up to 12.85m, which is 36% more stick pin height compared to the standard 352 Reach configuration.

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CONNECTED TECHNOLOGY

The Hitachi Connected Technology department has been expanded, acquiring a 4.7-acre site to fit 3D machine control and special attachment solutions its excavators. Customers can choose from 3D machine control from Leica, TopCon and Trimble; tilt rotators from Steelwrist, Engcon and Rototilt; and height, slew and RCI monitors from XWatch Safety Solutions.

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How has the lifting and access industry shifted toward a more sustainable future in the last five years?

Many climate experts claim that we only have until 2030 before we begin to hit a tipping point from which there may be no return from the damage to our planet. This is when climate change may become irreversible. Therefore, there has never been a more crucial time for individuals and businesses to do what they can to reduce their carbon footprint. This includes investing in renewable energy and clean technology.

With access to the latest technology and innovation, the lifting and access trade has an opportunity to transform the construction industry’s carbon output and pioneer sustainable solutions. Industry-leading production and hire firms should be taking this challenge on with open arms.

At its core, the lifting and access industry is focused on safety, and it is now becoming increasingly clear that the products we use must be safe for the environment as well as for users. Currently, the built environment, of which the construction sector is a crucial component, contributes approximately 40% of the UK’s carbon emissions. After the UK Government set the goal to reduce countrywide emissions by 68% by 2030, firms like JPS have begun to invest in greener solutions.

JPS Platforms, the lifting and access division of JPS, has curated a 70% electric fleet over the past five years and has noticed a concerted shift toward electric and hybrid solutions from its clients in the past year especially. Adam Hems, CEO of JPS, told us that his visit to this year’s Executive Hire Show confirmed recent observations that “financial constraints, contractual obligations and recognition of our industries impact is causing a definite increase in demand for more sustainable lifting and access machinery”.

Battery technology

The increased demand for greener access machines has led to more advancements in equipment. As battery technology improves, more equipment can be run efficiently and effectively on electric power, while delivering the same performance as its diesel counterpart. What’s more, increased electric motor efficiency means that this equipment can now run for longer, often for whole shifts, and recharge faster.

Many manufacturers are taking advantage of recent improvements in AGM and lithiumion battery technology, with their overarching benefits of reduced noise, lower emissions, and increased battery life. For companies like

JPS, which has a focus on indoor applications, providing quieter machines that have increased working hours means that the overall completion times for client’s jobs are decreasing as works can more easily be carried out alongside each other.

On top of this, electric scissor lifts are getting bigger and are now more accessible than ever. The Dingli 2212 for example has a 22m working height on a 1.25m wide chassis, it is also outdoor rated which makes this machine even more versatile. JPS’s lifting and access fleet ranges from 3.5m low level access machines to 22m electric scissor lifts, and up to 21m hybrid boom lifts with lots in between. A recent scissor lift market research analysis found that electric scissor dominates the market and accounts for 68.7% of trade. This is expected to grow at the fastest compound annual growth rate of 7.5% between 2022 and 2029.

John Young, Director of JPS Platforms, says: “We have always been passionate about providing our customers with hassle-free, innovative and dependable services; however, it is becoming increasingly important to our clients that the machines they hire are compliant with carbon targets and have a positive impact on the environments they operate within.

“We feel we have a responsibility to ensure we have a fleet of equipment that provides our customers with a clean and sustainable solution for working at height.

“By increasing our electric fleet, ensuring all new batteries are AGM or lithium and that hybrid technology is constantly advancing we hope to transform the industry’s carbon output.

“However, we do recognise that the charging infrastructure needs some serious improvement before it can be commonplace to see electric 4x4 machines replacing their diesel counterparts. The government wants companies like ours to be pushing green alternatives into the marketplace which we have shown commitment to, but we need to see some serious investment from the powers that be to ensure that these types of products become a first port of call and not just an alternative to diesel.”

Infrastructure

JPS has noted that some of its clients want to use these types of products, but they are held back due to the inability to successfully charge these types of machines. To solve this industry-wide issue, JPS is looking to invest in solar battery storage to provide a solution to its customers. The solar technology will top up the batteries all day enabling the powered access machines to be recharged overnight. John says: “Our aim is to keep pushing these types of products out into the market and demonstrate to end users the benefits of electrically powered machines,”

declares John. “Not just from a sustainability perspective but also from an operator comfort point of view as well.”

The environmental and cost benefits of electric and hybrid plant are clear, with zero carbon emissions and significantly reduced fuel use, but sustainable solutions also have many other benefits too. With much quieter operation, and significantly less vibration, they are far more comfortable to operate, which in turn increases productivity of the workforce and results in less long-term health risk to the operator.

Investing in clean technology is certain to be on the rise over the next few years as the UK Government strives to meet its net zero carbon emissions goal and companies and contractors make their own in-house commitments. It will most likely be a steady process as technology continues to improve and gets rolled out across the country. Many companies may not have the financial capability to replace their current plant with cleaner alternatives which provides hire firms with an opportunity to step up and become a reliable source for greener solutions.

For further information on JPS Platforms

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI 033

PL ATFORM forsuccess

The access platform is the safest and most efficient way of working at height. It can be used in numerous applications, from office buildings to construction sites, airports, and many more. However, in recent years, high population density, pollution and the climate change agenda has increased demand for emission reducing products.

The four new platform models in the Manitou electric range take advantage of the performance and optimised conditions of use offered by electrification and accelerates the roll-out of the manufacturer’s “Oxygen” low emissions range. The 200 ATJe rough-terrain platform (with a working height of 20 metres) is now available with four-wheel steer for greater manoeuvrability and a basket that can now take 250kg of load, 30kg more than on the two-wheel drive version. The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is reduced, with an almost 50% decrease in maintenance costs compared to the internal combustion version.

More than one day of use

The range of rough-terrain electric telehandlers also welcomes two models, the 160 ATJe and 180 ATJe. With a working height of 16 and 18 metres respectively, these platforms also see their capacity increased by 50kg, with a basket that can take a total weight of 250kg. Moreover, the 160 ATJ+e has a significantly increased capacity of 400kg but can easily get around obstacles and work at heights, even in the most remote areas. Thanks to an articulated telescopic boom,

these models offer great precision of movement, allowing you to position yourself easily in the work area. Their compactness and off-road capability also make them an ideal solution for driving outdoors on uneven, muddy, or sandy ground.

The ATJe platforms guarantee more than one day of use in intensive mode. In addition, thanks to the integrated multi-voltage charger, the machines are easily recharged. A range

extender solution is also presented in the form of a removable generator common to all the machines, allowing for a week of autonomy.

Keeping you safe

As safety is at the heart of Manitou Group’s mission, the 160, 180 and 200 ATJe models come with a Safety Pack, protecting the operator and the site teams, as well as alerting fleet managers to any high-risk behaviour. The pack includes forgotten harness detection and detection of obstacles around the machine’s chassis. A Lighting Pack ensures the utmost safety for platform loading and unloading operations with a number of lights positioned on the platform to see and be seen.

Arnaud Boyer, VP of Marketing & Product Development adds: “Manitou Group is the first manufacturer to have a range of 100% electric rough-terrain platforms from 16 to 20m. The acceleration of our electric development allows us to now offer lowemission solutions across our platform ranges, as well as on our telehandlers”.

The new Manitou electric machines operate on any terrain, indoors and outdoors. They can also be used in full electric or hybrid mode, to adapt to the needs of each site. The noise reduction also allows you to extend or modulate your working hours.

For more information on the Manitou range of electric access platforms

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI 034

The Manitou electric platform range offers a number of benefits over conventional diesel models

QR CODE SYSTEM

AFI-Rentals has launched a new smart QR Code System to allow customers to quickly and easily off-hire their rental equipment using the camera on their phone, without having to sign into their AFI account. The unique QR codes, which are placed clearly on each machine, provide direct links to information specific to the machine.

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LIFTING WEBINARS

A fresh programme of free-to-view, hour long, sector-specific webinars hosted by the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) will roll out throughout 2023. Each will delve into safety issues and best practice surrounding lifting, as well as feature guest industry speakers with expertise in the relevant sectors.

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SCISSOR LIFT

Access rental specialist Levels Above has invested in four LGMG SS0507E scissor lifts supplied by Access Platforms with a maximum working height of 6.3metres. The lifts are designed to be particularly effective in constrained space, both indoors or outdoors with a zero turning radius and electric drive system.

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SPIDER PLATFORM

A Hinowa Lightlift 17.75 Performance IIIS spider platform supplied by Access Platforms has impressed Morris’s Ground Maintenance, helping them clear 40 ash dieback infected trees from around Tregrug Castle. The lightweight machine has a maximum working height of 17.06m and maximum horizontal outreach of 7.5m.

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BOOM LIFTS

The Genie 4m platform for boom lifts is now available for use on the Genie S-45 XC, S-65 XC and S-85 XC boom lifts. The platform adds more than 60% additional room in the platform, boosting jobsite efficiency. The upgrade means the machines can take up to two workers to height and deliver a 272kg lift capacity.

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ELECTRIC SCISSORLIFT

HSS Hire has ordered an additional 100 Sinoboom, all electric, 1932ME Scissor Lifts, from Pinnacle Platforms. The lifts have a 5.8m platform height, 25’ working height and are mounted on a 32” chassis to optimise manoeuvrability in the tightest of spaces. The machines are powered by four 6v AGM maintenance-free batteries, driven by an electric DC motor.

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CRAWLER CRANE BOOM INSERT

Following customer feedback, Manitowoc has brought out a Wide Boom Plus insert kit for its MLC300 VPCMAX lattice-boom crawler crane. The updated attachment offers a maximum boom length of 429.8 ft (131m), with a tip height of 452.2 ft with the extended upper boom point. The extra 30% capacity allows operators to lift heavier loads.

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FOR ALL THE VERY LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS AND NEW PRODUCT INFORMATION VISIT

FOR ALL THE VERY LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS AND NEW PRODUCT INFORMATION VISIT

WWW.CPNONLINE.CO.UK

WWW.CPNONLINE.CO.UK

Packed with articles on a wide range of industry topics, www.cpnonline.co.uk is the first place to visit for all the latest news in plant and machinery – from the smallest skid steers and micro excavators to the giants of the tower crane market, or the heavyweights in crawler excavators, weʼve got it covered.

Get the latest information on the industryʼs biggest deals, as contractors and plant hirers renew their fleets in our Fleet Additions section, as well as all of the newest products to hit the market. Our website is updated daily, bringing you the most important industry news quicker than ever before.

Giving it LARGE!

range, performance, and cost. That changed in the spring of 2022 when the mighty Ford entered the fray with the new E-Transit. The company has dominated the UK commercial van market for almost sixty years and was clearly in no hurry to rush in where angels fear to tread. Whereas many electric vans still feel like stop gap solutions based on obviously converted diesel powered products, the E-Transit gives the impression of having been developed as a fully authentic variant of what is obviously an already extremely strong product line up.

For a start, at around £48,000 plus VAT the basic E-Transit is significantly less expensive than its closest large van rivals and,

miles, is also noticeably ahead of its rivals on this front as well. Interestingly, through extensive testing, Ford has also established a dependable real-world range of at least 100 miles in any weather, with any payload, using a battery that’s already withstood five years of use. That transparency is welcome in a sector which still has many issues to address in terms of the range anxiety associated with low temperatures, motorway driving and fully laden vehicles.

charging, topping the 68kWh battery pack back up to 80% can take as little as 34 minutes, while slower AC charging will achieve 100% in 8 hours with a three-phase supply wall box at around 12 hours on a common home connection.

The choice of 25 variants can be bit of a minefield in determining which one is right for your business and, whilst all feature the same battery pack, there are two power options. Our test vehicle was the 184hp

version and would appear more than adequate for most users, although an upgrade to 269hp is available at a price. Two trim levels, Leader and Trend are offered, and both have more standard equipment than the equivalent diesel models.

One of the highlights of these is the Ford Sync 4 infotainment system with a really impressive 12in. touch screen which can keep you fully updated as to how the vehicle is performing at all times. We did find something of an overkill about the amount of ventilation options to further distract you whilst driving but it’s a minor gripe overall. There is a rotary dial to control the single speed transmission and an automatic electronic handbrake. All of the electric versions feature additional crash structures, one to protect the batteries, others to replicate the structural role played by the engine that would typically be under the bonnet but is now used to house a lot of the van’s control systems.

High performance

The Transit’s reputation for refinement and performance goes before it, of course, and you would have to say that in some respects the e version is even more polished. It's extremely quick of the mark, even loaded, and reassuringly quiet and composed at speed thanks to a completely re-engineered rear suspension system with coil springs in place of the diesel’s live axle and leaf spring .

As with all electric vans, the e Transit can recover energy to recharge the batteries every time you lift off the accelerator. There is an L mode to heighten this effect, which takes a little getting used to, as opposed to the simple paddle system employed by some others although the process is far removed from the one pedal driving experience, where lifting the foot off can bring the vehicle to a rather disconcerting total stop.

An optional upgrade for the E-Transit, Pro Power Onboard allows you to use the 68-

kWh drive Battery to power external electric equipment, something which one imagines would be an enormous plus point for those tradespeople working on site or rural locations. There are three plugs, one in the cab, two in the load area which delivers up to 2.3kW to a selection of tools. And fear not, the van is smart enough to warn you when you may be running out of sufficient juice to get home.

All the bits you would expect are covered by the same warranty as any other Transit although the electric drive gets a longer 100,000-mile warranty for extra peace of mind. With less to go wrong, Ford have also taken the step of introducing unlimited mileage service intervals, but you will need to book in at a dealer every year.

Ford Pro concept

Alongside the official launch of the E-Transit in 2022, Ford also announced the introduction of the Ford Pro concept, basically a complete eco system of support with everything from finance and telematics to servicing and charging infrastructure. Its available across the complete Ford commercial vehicle platform and is open to the one-man band right up to the muti vehicle fleet operator. In fact, you don’t even have to own a Ford to sign up. Even Mr Drury may have lost count by now!

For further information on the Ford Pro WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI 042

To find out more about the Ford E-Transit WWW.RDR.LINK/CAI 043

“It’s extremely quick off the mark, even fully loaded, and reassuringly quiet and composed at speed”

Construction PLANT NEWS INTRODUCING

A digital service for our readers...

With a wide array of online resources supporting the latest solutions – from videos to technical guides, PDFs to podcasts – it can be a challenge to locate what you need.

To ensure you don’t miss out on these valuable resources, we are introducing rdr.link/ – a new, rapid service to transport you immediately to the online resources mentioned in our stories.

So, in articles you may now see things like:

For further information on Volvo Construction Equipment

WWW.RDR.LINK/CAE 017

Simply enter rdr.link/ followed by the unique six digit code into your browser and it will take you to the required resource

Designed to help busy professionals rapidly locate more information – look out for & use RDR.LINK/

ECO-FRIENDLY ENGINE PLATFORM

A new more environmentally friendly engine platform from Cummins Inc. has been announced. This new fuelagnostic 15-litre solution features hydrogen, biogas and advanced diesel engines. The hydrogen drivetrain will be available with ratings from 400-to-530 hp. The renewable biogas version will range from 400-to-510 hp and the advanced diesel version will offer 450to-650 hp.

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TELESCOPIC CRANE

With a load capacity of 80 metric tons, the 683E telescopic crawler crane from SENNEBOGEN fits into the manufacturer’s medium-size class. The main boom has a length of 42m and is capable of lifting operations on a 4-degree incline. The crane is powered by a 186kW Stage V compliant engine.

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ELECTRIC EXCAVATOR

A cleaner and more sustainable excavator is how SANY describes its electric SY19E. The LFP battery pack has been designed without cobalt, making it safe to operate as well as environmentally friendly. The low noise level (66 dB(A)) motor delivers a peak output of 15 kW and can charge in as fast as 1.5 hours (with a battery life of 6 hours).

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RENTAL SOFTWARE UPDATE

Cloud equipment rental software, HireHop, has added a maintenance module to the list of rapidly growing free features. This will allow users to track repairs, log tests and services, move assets to different depots, change what an asset is, and much more. The module is mobile device compatible, allowing the phone camera to be used as a barcode scanner.

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HYBRID GENERATOR

The Prolectric Solar Hybrid Generator has an inverter output of 30kVa and can also be connected up with existing diesel generators, up to 100kVA, further expanding on-site power capacity. By minimising run-time, the ProPower saves on fuel costs, reduces maintenance, and cuts CO2 emissions by an average of 70%.

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SECURITY

Thanks to its Eco CCTV Tower, Prime Secure, helped its customers save over 1,000 tonnes of CO2 during 2022. Designed for sites without power, the company's eco towers save over 99% of CO2 output compared to running a generator 8 hours a day. It claims to be the only 100% Eco-powered CCTV Tower featuring A.I. technology with 3600, 24/7 coverage.

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ELECTRIC DEWATERING PUMPS

The Atlas Copco E-Pump range of electric surface self-priming dewatering pumps consists of different models with a canopy and open set configuration to choose from. The quick-to-install pumps manage demanding flows and large solids with lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) with digital connectivity also available.

WHEEL LOADERS

Simple-to-use technologies designed to boost efficiency are a feature of the Stage V complaint Cat 950 and 962 Next Generation Wheel Loaders, including Cat Payload with Assist, Autodig and Auto Set Tires. Other features include customised profiles at the touch of a button, a rear-vision camera to enhance safety and extended service intervals.

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WHAT3WORDS

Rental Software Supplier, MCS, has incorporated the location system what3words into its software. The company’s app integrates the system into Bing maps, which means that even remote locations outside of postcodes can be easily identified. It’s simple to navigate and start a route and less time is wasted trying to deliver or collect equipment.

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SITE MANAGING

Task Manager from Volvo CE is a web application that the company asserts will connect people, machines and projects, in turn providing visibility of the tasks taking place and helping ensure activities are delivered on target, on time and to budget. Through the tool, you will be able to monitor progress and track material moved on site.

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