ABE July/Aug 2026

JULY/AUGUST 2026 | Vol.20 ISSUE No.4 | www.AggBusiness.com

Delivering a grand plan CFlo targets global growth with unique washing solutions

PARTNERS IN SUSTAINABILITY McLanahan and Cemex UK host successful open day showcase

ABE0726 COVER.indd 1

SCREENING SUCCESS STORY ALLU streamlines screening with new bucket solution

THE INDUSTRY’S BEST The SaMoTer 2026 innovation awards winners are revealed

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TRANSFORMING WASTE

In-house lab to ensure proper sizing and selection

Plants fully composed of McLanahan engineered equipment

Maintenance-friendly designs to minimize downtime

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Increase Production And Profit While Reducing Waste With McLanahan C&D Recycling Solutions See Us At Hillhead In Stand J4 mclanahan.com

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COMMENT

LIAM McLOUGHLIN

EDITOR

The strategic importance of Europe’s aggregates sector

T

he Aggregates Europe Entrepreneurs’ Forum and Delegates Assembly, held in Cyprus in late May, provided a welcome indication that the importance of the region’s aggregates sector is gaining wider recognition.

The two-day event in Larnaca saw the participation of high-level politicians, including the Republic of Cyprus president Nikos Christodoulides.

His presence helped to give the Delegates Assembly significant media exposure, and Aggregates Europe said this represents a step forward in the acknowledgement of aggregates as a resource of vital societal importance.

In his speech, Christodoulides said aggregates and other minerals were essential for Europe’s economy and development.

In this edition’s headline interview, Aggregates Europe president Antonis Latouros, secretarygeneral Dirk Fincke, and first vice-president Monica Soldinger Almefelt discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.

A major focus at both the Entrepreneurs’ Forum and Delegates Assembly was the critical need for streamlined permitting procedures and deregulation to improve access to mineral resources in Europe.

Latouros said there was a “big mess” surrounding current permitting procedures for quarries, with no common procedure in place for use across the continent.

“If Europe wants to have autonomy, we need to have access to our own raw material deposits,” he told Aggregates Business.

“And after everyone understands this, the politicians and the policymakers have to be courageous to go to the next step. We do not want to lower the environmental aspects of the whole procedure, but we want more streamlined and more fast-moving operational processes to get these permits.”

Also high on the agenda in Larnaca was the need for European regulators to consider an

Essential Raw Materials Act in addition to the existing Critical Raw Materials Act to establish common procedures and simplify access to essential materials.

“There is a need to have a raw materials act covering essential raw materials,” Fincke said.

“We are lacking that central piece of legislation which says how to access. We know we need it – the ‘why’ is absolutely clear and the ‘how’ needs to be further discussed.”

Another major event for the European aggregates sector this summer was the UK’s Hillhead quarrying show, which took place from June 23–25 near Buxton in Derbyshire.

In temperatures that rivalled those in Larnaca, quarrying manufacturers and service providers showcased a host of new products and cuttingedge equipment.

Our feature on how Hillhead 2026 shows the industry is evolving at pace, with emerging technologies and sustainable operating solutions.

CFlo takes centre stage on this edition’s front cover. Aggregates Business caught up with CFlo’s team at Hillhead and heard from regional chief executive officer of CFlo Europe Enda Ivanoff, about the potential for its wash plant solutions in Europe.

CFlo said it is bringing something different to the region’s market with its modular, smart, and easy-to-use technology.

Another excellent meeting at Hillhead was with Finnish manufacturer ALLU, which has developed the ALLU Concrete Bucket, an excavator-mounted attachment designed to process demolition concrete and waste on site while converting material that might otherwise require disposal into stockpile-ready product.

I had a very enjoyable road trip in late May to the Cemex Shepperton facility in Surrey and learnt how a McLanahan UltraWASH system is meeting the increasing need for agile, productive modular wash plants that can be easily moved to other extraction sites. LM

liam.mcloughlin@primeglobalpublishing.com © AGGREGATES BUSINESS EUROPE July/August 2026

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CONTENTS

COVER STORY

“While we’re starting with the UK and Europe first, we certainly feel there are going to be growing opportunities in Central Europe, especially with the uptake of recycling growing in that area.” - Enda Ivanoff p08

JULY/AUGUST 2026 | Vol.20 ISSUE No.4 | www.AggBusiness.com

Delivering a grand plan CFlo targets global growth with unique washing solutions

Vol.20 ISSUE No.4 July/August 2026

Regulars

Features

05 COMMENT

20 ATTACHMENTS

The UK quarrying sector delivers as Hillhead makes successful return.

06 ASSOCIATION NEWS The latest news and updates from Aggregates Europe for its members.

50 EVENTS All the key events in the quarrying and aggregates world.

Specials 10 BUCKET ATTACHMENTS ALLU’s latest innovation helps contractors transform demolition concrete into valuable materials efficiently.

12 INDUSTRY REPORT A streamlined permitting process for quarries and the EU Raw Materials Act were key issues at the Aggregates Europe Assembly and Forum.

16 QUARRY PROFILE A McLanahan UltraWASH system in the west of London is meeting the need for agile, productive modular wash plants.

18 AWARDS Innovators in excavators, loaders and attachments were among those recognised at SaMoTer.

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Simex builds on 35 years of success in the quarrying sector with innovation.

22 SUSTAINABILITY The construction materials sector has responded to the global demand for sand.

PARTNERS IN SUSTAINABILITY McLanahan and Cemex UK host successful open day showcase

SCREENING SUCCESS STORY ALLU streamlines screening with new bucket solution

THE INDUSTRY’S BEST The SaMoTer 2026 innovation awards winners are revealed

24 TYRES Triangle Tyres continues to advance its progress into the UK market.

COVER STORY: CFlo aims to expand in Europe's quarrying and aggregates sector with new wash plant solutions Image: CFlo.

26 CONVEYORS Why belt cleaners can stop highvolume conveyors from making a high-volume mess.

31 EVENTS A review of the major announcements from Hillhead 2026.

34 CASE STUDY The Tilbury Cement Works could define the future of cement in the UK.

36 MARKET REPORT Understanding the rise of granite mining in Finland.

40 CRUSHING AND SCREENING Improvements in crushing equipment are reshaping the aggregates landscape.

42 ENGINES Advanced engine developments are supporting the aggregates sector.

44 HAULING Improved technologies are ensuring safer hauling operations.

46 LOADING The quarrying sector is being defined by investment in loading equipment.

48 BUSINESS The latest appointments from across the global quarrying and aggregates sector.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

Reducing burden and increasing benefits for the European aggregates sector

T

he European Commission’s current stress-test of the Birds and Habitats Directives comes at an important time for Europe.

As part of the wider environmental simplification process, the EU is looking at how to maintain high levels of environmental protection while making rules more effective, practical and predictable on the ground.

For the European aggregates sector, this is a welcome and long-needed discussion.

Aggregates Europe and its members fully support the objectives of the Birds and Habitats Directives. Natura 2000 remains one of Europe’s most important legal tools for biodiversity protection.

The question is not whether nature should be protected, but how implementation can better support both biodiversity and responsible economic activity.

This has always been the spirit of Natura 2000.

This is particularly relevant for permitting and landuse planning. Aggregates producers work in a complex regulatory environment, where nature protection, land-use planning, water management, environmental impact assessment, species protection and restoration obligations often come together in a single project. Permitting and landuse planning must therefore be robust, but also clear, visionary, coordinated and proportionate.

Aggregates are essential for Europe’s housing, roads, railways, renewable energy projects, flood protection, water

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and military infrastructure and climate adaptation. They are also location-bound: sand, gravel and crushed rock can only be extracted where suitable geological deposits exist.

This means that landuse planning and permitting systems must recognise the specific realities of aggregates production and support practical solutions rather than unnecessary delays.

Responsible operators already invest heavily in biodiversity management.

Across Europe, companies work with environmental experts, authorities, non-government organisations, local communities and scientists to assess and reduce impacts, protect species and restore sites.

Aggregates extraction sites have often developed biodiversity management plans, monitoring programmes, progressive restoration measures and dedicated actions for birds, amphibians, reptiles, pollinators and other species.

Quarries and sand and gravel extraction sites are not static landscapes.

During their lifetime, they evolve. Extraction can create cliffs, sand banks, gravel areas, temporary ponds, wetlands and pioneer habitats.

These environments can become valuable for species that are under pressure elsewhere, including sand martins, bee-eaters, kingfishers, eagle owls, amphibians and pollinators. With the right management, active extraction sites can provide space for nature while continuing to supply essential materials.

Biodiversity is an important consideration for the aggregates sector in Europe.

Image: PhotoChur/ stock.adobe.com

Aggregates Europe discusses how quarry operators can play an important role in actively contributing to restoration, species protection and nature recovery within the aggregates sector.

This is why species protection needs legal certainty.

Operators should be encouraged to create and manage habitats, not discouraged by uncertainty over how temporary habitats will be treated later in the permitting process. A clear and practical framework would help site managers protect species while maintaining safe and lawful operations.

Restoration is another area where the sector has a strong story to tell. Aggregates extraction is temporary, but well-planned restoration can leave a lasting positive legacy. Former extraction sites can become wetlands, lakes, grasslands, nesting areas, ecological corridors, recreational spaces or nature reserves. Restored aggregates extraction sites provide habitats that are scarce in surrounding landscapes. Good examples already exist across Europe.

The EU-funded project “LIFE in Quarries” in Belgium has shown how temporary habitats can be managed alongside active extraction.

Co-operation between the minerals sector and conservation organisations in Austria has supported important quarry and gravel-pit habitats.

The Grensmaas project in the Netherlands and Belgium has combined gravel extraction with flood protection and large-scale nature restoration.

These examples demonstrate the responsible role quarry operators can play. The sector is not only managing environmental impacts; it is actively contributing to restoration, species protection and nature recovery.

With visionary land-use planning, proportionate permitting, strong species protection and responsible quarry restoration, the Birds and Habitats Directives can continue to protect nature while supporting the materials Europe needs for its future.

Aggregates Europe will address these opportunities during its next late summer reception on 23 September 2026, in Brussels, with highlevel panellists and a wide range of stakeholders. AB

www.AggBusiness.com

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info@allu.net 16/7/2026 8: 7 am

COVER STORY

Building an expanded presence in Europe CFlo is growing its footprint in the European quarrying and aggregates sector with a partner-led model and an innovative range of modular wash plant solutions.

A

It also reflects the company’s long-term growth as CFlo marks its 20th anniversary in 2026.

The regional hubs will be central to the company’s efforts to scale its solutions across key quarrying and aggregates markets.

To support this, Ryan Barker has been appointed regional head of operations and delivery at CFlo, with a remit to help scale the business across both the European and North American markets.

CFlo said this model provides customers with closer support and faster response times while enabling the business to scale through partners with strong local market knowledge.

Ivanoff said the company sees strong potential across Europe for its solutions.

“While we are starting with the UK and Europe first, we certainly see growing opportunities in Central Europe, especially as recycling uptake continues to rise there,” he said.

“We do not just work in recycling; we also work in the sand and gravel sectors with waste recovery and engineered sand. Quarrying has also been a growing market for us.”

For those outside the UK and Europe, CFlo is a familiar name. Ivanoff said CFlo was founded in 2006 by Manish Bhartia, Enda Ivanoff and Brendan McGurgan. Since then, the company has grown from humble beginnings to employing around 200 people globally.

CFlo exhibited at Hillhead 2026.

Images: CFlo

t Hillhead 2026 in Buxton, CFlo used the UK and Europe’s largest quarrying, construction and recycling exhibition to introduce its regional push to operators across the sector.

Could the answer to more efficient, lowerimpact processing lie within modular design?

That is the question CFlo is bringing to European operators as it enters a market that is already highly developed for recycled materials.

Regional chief executive officer of CFlo Europe Enda Ivanoff said the company believes its model is a strong fit for the well-established European market.

“We feel that is a natural fit for our technologies and experience,” he said.

“We think we are bringing something different to the market through our modular technology that is super modular, super smart and super easy to deploy.

“We will be working with our certified partners to make it easy to deploy this technology both within the UK and across continental Europe.”

At the company’s stand, a miniature model of the Combo X150 illustrated the thinking behind CFlo’s product strategy, with modular wet processing systems designed to be easier to support at site level.CFlo recently registered CFlo Europe in Belfast, Northern Ireland, as it continues to expand its presence in the market.

From its Belfast base, CFlo Europe will support customers in the UK and Europe, with a wider remit across North America and Oceania. It is the latest addition to CFlo’s global network, which includes CFlo World FZE in Dubai and the group’s global headquarters and innovation and manufacturing hub in Kolkata.

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CFlo Global chief executive officer and managing director Manish Bhartia also attended Hillhead, reflecting the importance of the show in CFlo’s regional launch.

“It means a great deal to stand at Hillhead.

For two decades, CFlo has been a modular wet processing equipment manufacturer with a single purpose: to conserve resources and help build waste-free cities,” he said.

Bhartia said the Hillhead launch is “the start of Vision 2030”.

“By 2030, our goal is clear. We want to be the most trusted brand in modular wet processing across all five of our regions. Trust is earned, and so we are changing how we earn it, and we are changing it now,” he said.

“We are reinventing our business and products around certified partners who know their markets and stand beside our customers.

“They bring us closer to the people we serve, and they carry our sustainable solutions to market in the most trusted and efficient way, through people the industry already trusts.”

A recent UN Environment Programme (UNEP) report said that demand for sand materials from the building sector alone is set to rise by 45 per cent by 2060. The report estimated that around 50 billion tonnes of sand are used worldwide each year, as it is a critical component in producing concrete, asphalt and glass. In its report, UNEP has said this has created a “sand gap” in which demand is surging globally while sustainable, ethical supply of natural sand cannot keep pace.

In several sectors, including quarrying, this backdrop of demand has led many producers to seek sustainable ways to replace natural sand in their production processes.

Engineered sand has become vital to many sectors, especially quarrying and construction, in recent years, as natural sand reserves have become harder to access and increasingly subject to tight regulation and environmental guidelines.

CFlo’s modular technology has become a popular choice for operations in the quarrying and construction demolition sectors seeking to enter the engineered sand market.

“Our technology is super modular, super smart and super easy to deploy,” Ivanoff said.

“We have developed this world-class equipment and backed it with a highly experienced team; many of us have spent our lifetime in the minerals processing sector.”

One of CFlo’s most popular solutions for both quarrying and construction and demolition (C&D) operators is the Combo solution, which encapsulates CFlo’s modular design philosophy and patented approach.

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COVER STORY

“The Combo is a unique and patented product for CFlo,” Ivanoff said.

“It can be deployed quickly on-site and is efficient at recovering waste and sands, with proven performance across the quarrying and mining sectors.

“It is a complete on-board water treatment solution, so it does not need additional water tanks, water pumps or pipework.

“The reason for that is that the water is recycled with the help of gravity, which helped us reduce water pump kilowatts by 30 per cent, a big advantage for many quarry operators.”

Last year, CFlo released the Combo X220, extending the range from a feed capacity of 50 tonnes per hour with the Combo X50 to 220 to 250 tonnes per hour with the Combo X220.

The Combo X220 is designed for mediumto-large-scale operators, with higher throughput, consistent product quality and efficient water use.

The solution integrates feeding, screening, classification, dewatering, water recycling, sludge handling and stockpiling into a single system, while simplifying site layout and reducing civil works during deployment.

It is supplied in standard containers, making it easy to install, relocate and recommission if required, while maintaining important features including galvanised walkways for maintenance access.

According to CFlo, the Combo X220 can process minus 5mm feed material containing up to 10–15 per cent silt, producing

CFlo has many trusted solutions for quarries. construction-grade sand with controlled grading and 10–12 per cent moisture, with its Hydromax water recycling system and Easysettle sludge bay manager enabling up to 95 per cent water recovery.

It is the latest example of how CFlo is innovating its product line to meet operators’ expectations in the market.

“By using our experience and staying ahead of the curve, we know that capacity requirements in North America, Oceania and Europe are quite different from the Middle East and Asia,” Ivanoff said.

“We knew that in different markets there would be a need for a larger-capacity machine, which led to the development of the X220.”

CFlo exhibitedits at European expansion, the Alongside Hillhead 2026. company has ambitious plans to scale globally

by 2030, with the potential for hubs in Oceania and North America to join CFlo’s existing hubs in Europe, the Middle East and Asia, supported by a network of dedicated dealer partners in each hub.

“That is the benefit of having these hubs in strategic markets, because they are close to our dealer partners and allow us to support both the dealer partner and the end-user,” Ivanoff said.

That growth is expected to be supported by a new global headquarters and an advanced manufacturing facility in India, due to be operational and producing equipment by 2030. The new “super facility” would provide greater logistical access through India’s major ports, enabling the company to support both customers and its growing dealer networks in those strategic hubs.

With over 500 successful installations delivered across 18 countries, CFlo said Hillhead 2026 marks an important step in its next phase of growth.

Ivanoff said the company’s approach to adapting its solutions to suit customer applications would hold it in good stead.

“While there is a standard platform, all of the equipment is tailor-made to suit the application, and there are various things we can adapt and change to make it a bespoke system for the customer’s requirements,” he said.

“That is the benefit of our super modular approach; it is also smart and easy to use and deploy.” AB

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BUCKET ATTACHMENTS

Images: ALLU

ALLU has unveiled the ALLU Concrete Bucket.

Higher processing power unleashed ALLU’s latest innovation is helping contractors turn demolition concrete into valuable materials through a smooth, streamlined process.

B

eing a demolition contractor is a juggling act.

As the sector pushes for greater efficiency and material recovery, contractors are being asked to handle more with less. That is where ALLU sees an opportunity.

The Finnish manufacturer has developed the ALLU Concrete Bucket, an excavatormounted attachment designed to process demolition concrete and waste on site.

ALLU’s solution helps convert these on-site materials into stockpile-ready sellable product when previously, they might have ended up in waste disposal.

“It reflects ALLU’s mission to bring something different to the market that helps customers improve productivity and reduce cost in the time-consuming crushing phase,” ALLU head of research and development Antti Rautamies said Compatible with 25–45 tonne excavators, the ALLU Concrete Bucket handles feed material up to 300mm and offers output sizes of either 0–50mm or 0–100mm through a changeable counter-blade setup.

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By bringing the processing stage to the material, contractors can reduce the need for additional handling and transport, which lowers costs. Fines pass through the bucket, while the rotating drums and the crushing plates break down larger fragments.

The processed product can then be stockpiled, reused on-site, loaded out, or sent for further processing.

The new attachment is already proving useful in demolition applications, with operators citing its compact set-up and ability to keep material flowing as key advantages.

“We’ve been extremely happy with the end result,” Ursa Demolition chief executive officer Jonathan Bjon said.

The ALLU Concrete Bucket features a robust design.

“The production capacity is remarkably higher than with a jaw crusher attachment, and the 2.5-tonne weight makes it stable to handle. You can also reach further with a 35-tonne excavator.”

The attachment differs from conventional options by employing rotating drums with replaceable carbide picks and a counter blade arrangement. ALLU said the design enables material to flow continuously through the bucket, making it well-suited to pulverised demolition concrete containing a high proportion of fines.

This compact method keeps the excavator productive and helps contractors handle mixed rubble efficiently. The replaceable carbide picks are designed for tough demolition work and can be changed on-site.

This makes the bucket practical for demanding applications.

Reinforced concrete is another common challenge in demolition applications because the feed material often contains residual rebar and smaller steel fragments.

According to ALLU, the concrete bucket is designed to tolerate this contamination, with metal either passing through the attachment or being separated from the processed material. The result is an attachment that supports several demolition and recycling applications without requiring major changes to the overall workflow.

“It is really easy to use and not all that heavy,” Ursa Demolition head of machinery and equipment Jan Furu said.

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BUCKET ATTACHMENTS

The ALLU Concrete Bucket streamlines the processing of on-site materials.

KEY TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS • • • • • •

• • • •

Carrier size: 25–45 tonnes Bucket weight: 2500kg Maximum feed size: up to 300mm Output options: 0–50mm or 0–100mm Processing capacity: up to 100 tonnes per hour Applications: pulverised demolition concrete, bricks, demolition rubble, reinforced concrete, and large asphalt fragments Steel handling: designed to handle rebar and other steel objects in the feed Wear parts: Variable Drum structure with replaceable carbide picks Frame: heavy-duty structure with 40mm cutting edge and 30mm side cutters Hydraulic setup: Drain Line Eliminator on suitable carriers

“It’s good that you can change direction, if necessary. It can also handle any iron bits, which makes it very nice to use.”

Demolition projects rarely demand a single material. Some contractors prioritise coarser material for fill, base layers or secondary processing, while others rely on finer fractions that are easier to reuse, stockpile or transport.

The counter-blade set-up of the ALLU Concrete Bucket enables contractors to match their current application, whether they need a finer end product or a coarser product at a higher material flow rate.

The bucket includes a heavy-duty frame with a 40mm cutting edge and 30mm side cutters that can withstand the breakout forces of 45-tonne excavators.

The ALLU Concrete Bucket is also equipped with the manufacturer’s Drain Line Eliminator technology, which simplifies hydraulic setup on compatible carriers by eliminating a common connection point.

This is especially useful for contractors and rental fleets moving attachments between machines.

The ALLU Concrete Bucket reflects the company’s long-standing approach to material processing, enhancing carrier machine versatility and keeping valuable material moving efficiently on site.

“Forty years of innovation is not about chasing new,” ALLU Finland chief executive officer Peter Grönholm said. “It is about making work simpler and more profitable where the material actually is.” AB

www.AggBusiness.com

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INDUSTRY REPORT

Breaking the permit deadlock A more streamlined permitting procedure for quarries and the need for an EU Essential Raw Materials Act were among key issues discussed at the Aggregates Europe Delegates Assembly and Entrepreneurs’ Forum.

T

he recent Aggregates Europe Delegates Assembly and Entrepreneurs’ Forum was highly successful, with discussions covering key issues facing the non-energy extractive industries across Europe.

The Entrepreneurs’ Forum was jointly organised by Aggregates Europe, Eurogypsum, Euromines, the Cyprus Quarries Association and the Greek Mining Enterprises Association for key industry personnel.

The co-operation between these organisations reflected the increasing recognition that Europe’s competitiveness, energy transition, housing, infrastructure and defence objectives depend on secure access to domestically sourced raw materials.

The forum provided a common platform for the European non-energy extractive industries to discuss shared challenges and opportunities.

A significant highlight of the event was the participation of high-level politicians, including the Republic of Cyprus president Nikos Christodoulides at the Delegates Assembly, underscoring the importance of the aggregates sector.

Christodoulides said aggregates were essential in Europe’s economy.

Delegates Assembly Hosted by the Cyprus Quarries Association under the leadership of Aggregates Europe President Antonis Latouros, the Larnaca events benefited from strong support.

Images: Aggregates Europe

Aggregates Europe president Antonis Latouros addresses the Delegates Assembly in Larnaca.

The Entrepreneurs’ Forum was held under the auspices of Cyprus’ presidency of the Council of the European Union, highlighting the strategic importance of raw materials for Europe’s competitiveness, resilience and sustainable development.

The choice of Cyprus as host country provided a timely opportunity to bring together European policymakers, industry leaders and stakeholders to discuss the future of domestic raw materials supply in Europe.

Christodoulides said that the importance of the raw materials sector has increased in response to changing global conditions and that the sector is central to Europe’s competitiveness and resilience.

He said that a secure supply of materials forms the foundation for Europe’s future development, including the expansion of infrastructure, housing, and industry.

Without access to these raw materials, economies and societies would not function.

Everything begins with access to resources, and securing this access is not optional – it is essential.

At the same time, key challenges were identified, including permitting processes, access to resources, and social acceptance.

These issues need to be addressed in a coordinated manner across Europe to ensure that the region remains competitive, resilient, and strategically independent.

Christodoulides said that economic development and environmental sustainability are not opposing forces but

Nikos Christodoulides (second from left), President of the Republic of Cyprus, at the Delegates Assembly.

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INDUSTRY REPORT

must be developed in parallel and go hand in hand. Sustainable development requires both a strong business sector and a clear environmental responsibility.

Aggregates Europe president Antonis Latouros told the assembly that Europe is in a new era with a new geopolitical reality impacted by war, energy insecurity and supply chain disruption.

Latouros said that aggregates are a fundamental pre-requisite for societal development and industrial progress.

“Without aggregates, there is literally nothing around us,” he said.

Latouros said there is a fundamental contradiction between the European Union’s ambitions in infrastructure, resilience, competitiveness, and strategic autonomy and the reality of the challenges in the region’s aggregates sector including permitting delays, restricted access, public opposition, and complexity. He said that Europe must secure access to local raw materials because they cannot be imported in an economically, logistically, or sustainably viable way.

He said this requires political courage and clear priorities, and that neither the EU’s green transition nor the Clean Industrial Deal is possible without aggregates.

The main challenge is not a lack of resources but a lack of access to them.

The Delegates Assembly formally endorsed Aggregates Europe’s strategic priorities which were proposed by Latouros at the board meeting for 20262027, focusing on: • Recognition of aggregates as a strategic sector C • Permitting and access to resources • Social acceptance and visibility M Latouros said the key question is not Y whether Europe needs aggregates, but whether Europe can enable responsible CM extraction and use.

A major focus was the critical need for might be considered critical and increase streamlined permitting procedures and dependency,” he said. deregulation to improve access to mineral “If Europe wants to have autonomy, we resources in Europe. need to have access to our own raw material “The problem is if Europe is able and deposits. And once everyone understands ready to access these resources. Many of the this, the politicians and policymakers have to discussions were around this,” Latouros said. be courageous enough to take the next step.

Latouros said there is a “big mess” around We do not want to lower the environmental current permitting procedures for quarries aspects of the whole procedure, but we want in Europe, with no common procedure to be more streamlined and more fast-moving used across the continent. He said that in operational processes to get these permits.” some countries, the permitting process can Essential Raw Materials Act take anything from five to 25 years.

Latouros said that there is a need for “This problem is getting worse and very European regulators to start considering an soon, if we 6-5_AggBusEUAM_InsertV1.pdf don’t do something, materials1 6/1/26 1:48 PM Essential Raw Materials Act in addition to the that are not considered critical today soon

MY

Permitting procedures CY Delegates at both the Entrepreneurs’ Forum CMY and the Delegates Assembly heard that Europe is well provided for due to its geology.

K

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INDUSTRY REPORT

existing Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) to create common procedures and simplify access to essential materials.

The CRMA is a major European Union law enacted to secure a reliable, sustainable, and diversified supply of materials critical or strategic for the green transition, digital technologies, space, and defence.

It aims to reduce heavy reliance on singlecountry suppliers by boosting domestic extraction, processing, and recycling.

It focuses on a list of 34 critical raw materials (CRMs) vital to the EU economy.

Of these, 17 are classified as strategic raw materials (SRMs) due to their high supply risk and forecast exponential demand.

Despite calls to expand the scope of the CRMA, EU law still addresses only a small fraction of what is fundamentally needed by European economies.

“There is a need to have a raw materials act covering essential raw materials,” Aggregates Europe secretary-general Dirk Fincke said.

“We will bring that to the table at the European Commission Raw Materials Supply Group meeting in September 2026.

“We are lacking that central piece of legislation which says how to access.

“We know we need it – the ‘why’ is absolutely clear and the ‘how’ needs to be further discussed.

“There is increasing recognition of the need for all raw materials, but we are still lacking proper action.”

The Raw Materials Supply Group is a longstanding European Commission expert group (consisting of representatives from member states, non-energy extractive industries, academia, and non-goverment organisations) that advises the European Union on securing a sustainable and competitive supply of non-energy raw materials. It is being reconvened in September for the first time in five years.

The proposed Essential Raw Materials Act would focus on high-volume minerals and materials that are indispensable for society and the economy but are not covered by the Critical Raw Materials Act. These would include aggregates, industrial minerals, limestone, gypsum, silica sand, clays, dimension stone, and other construction and industrial minerals essential for housing, infrastructure, manufacturing, and the energy transition.

Sustainability Progress is being made on sustainability initiatives such as electrification and renewable energy use, though challenges remain regarding machine availability, investment costs, and the technical implementation of electrification.

Latouros said greater levels of operational sustainability are being achieved.

“We have many examples regarding electrification and renewable energy, but the transition from current machines to the electrification of machines is not that easy,” he said.

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Aggregates Europe secretarygeneral Dirk Fincke spoke at the Entrepreneurs’ Forum.

“There is a need to have a raw materials act covering essential raw materials.”

- Aggregates Europe secretarygeneral Dirk Fincke “There are not so many machines available, and you are talking about huge investments.

“And there will also be other problems, such as where and how to charge all these machines. Electrification is coming for quarries, but it will take more time, I believe.”

Recycled aggregates The importance and potential of recycled aggregates was another major topic under discussion in Larnaca. Recycling is an integral part of the aggregates industry's business model, but Latouros said there is a ceiling on its usage going forward.

“Recycling is already part of our business model in the aggregates industry,” he said.

“More and more construction and demolition waste is being recycled within the quarries.

I am one of them; I have a recycling plant in one of my quarries.

“We recycle aggregates, we will keep on doing it, but it will never be enough. The numbers talk by themselves.

“Today in Europe we have an average around ten per cent substitution rate regarding recycled aggregates, with a potential ceiling of 29 per cent, which indicates a continued reliance on primary aggregates. We have three billion tonnes of aggregates consumption per year in Europe. Currently, around three hundred million tonnes of this demand is met from recycled aggregates.”

He said that the use of recycled aggregates is currently high in countries such as the UK, France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany, with some reaching up to 29 per cent.

“These countries declare that they more or less recycle all their waste,” Latouros said.

“So that means that this is a ceiling, where 29 per cent is a limit if everyone manages to do it as well as these five countries.

“That means we will always rely on the primary aggregates to cover at least seventyone per cent of our needs.”

He said that the more durable nature of buildings now being constructed means they can last up to 100 years, nearly double the lifespan of many buildings currently being demolished.

Global Aggregates Information Network (GAIN) president Jim O’Brien told delegates at the assembly that global aggregates production has declined from 44 billion tonnes in 2019 to an estimated 37 billion tonnes in 2026.

He said this is predominantly due to a slowdown in the largest aggregates market, China, which has declined by 34 per cent over that period.

There was a 10 per cent decline in 2026, with further declines likely through 2030 due to easy permitting leading to oversupply.

Committees and working groups Aggregates Europe committees and working group heads made presentations at the Delegates Assembly addressing issues of key importance to the aggregates industry.

Aggregates Europe first vice president Monica Soldinger Almefelt told Aggregates Business that she found a few of the topics highlighted particularly relevant at this time for the industry.

“Many influential participants attended, including both policymakers and industry experts, and a wide range of important topics were discussed,” she said.

“The collaboration between different member organisations of Raw Materials Europe was also strengthened.”

Topics discussed included: • The recognition of aggregates as an essential raw material in EU (including communication efforts to increase the visibility of the sector) • Biodiversity in quarries • The crucial importance of aggregates for the EU’s preparedness • The revised EU climate law • The Environmental Omnibus (reducing regulatory burden while maintaining environmental responsibility) • The development of the reporting of environmental data for aggregates - currently presented through environmental product declarations • The ongoing development of new EU-wide End-of-Waste criteria for mineral construction and demolition waste; and skills development (including attracting more women to the industry) Entrepreneurs’ Forum The Entrepreneurs’ Forum, held on May 28, featured a range of presentations and discussions.

Soldinger Almefelt said the forum provided an excellent opportunity for discussions on the growing importance of domestic

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INDUSTRY REPORT

The Entrepreneurs’ Forum was well attended by key personnel. mineral resources in strengthening Europe’s competitiveness, resilience, energy security, as well as the green and digital transition.

“There was a clear message that the EU should move from a primarily regulatory role towards a more facilitating one,” she said.

A related issue to streamlining the permitting process is raising public awareness and acceptance of the need for quarrying and aggregates, which was widely discussed by the industry leaders who participated in the forum.

“Acceptance is a key point, and that’s why we need to explain to the public much better why we do need minerals. It's essential to sit together with them and discuss what we're doing. But together, no stakeholder can do that alone,” Fincke said.

The events in Larnaca demonstrated a growing consensus from industry figures that Europe cannot achieve its competitiveness, resilience, housing, infrastructure, energy and defence objectives without secure access to domestic raw materials.

Ensuring timely permitting, public acceptance and recognition of aggregates as an essential resource will therefore remain central priorities for Aggregates Europe going forward.

“Without public acceptance, there will be no permits at the end of the day,” Latouros said.

“We discussed and admitted that we have to do more on public acceptance because if you cannot convince the people how essential you are, then they will not accept you.” AB

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QUARRY PROFILE

The McLanahan UltraWASH modular washing system at Cemex UK’s Shepperton site.

Image: Prime Global Publishing

The demand for mobility A McLanahan UltraWASH system in the west of London is meeting the need for agile, productive modular wash plants that can be easily moved to other extraction sites.

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quipment manufacturer McLanahan partnered with construction materials provider Cemex UK at the latter’s Shepperton Quarry in Surrey, southeast England, to provide an in-depth look at the latest technologies in modular washing equipment and circular material processing.

The highlight of the event was the McLanahan UltraWASH which is a premier modular wash plant designed for rapid setup and maximum product quality at optimum yield.

The open day provided a unique opportunity for operators and site managers to see the system in a live production environment and understand how it addresses the challenges of aggregate processing.

McLanahan’s UltraWASH Modular Wash Plants are designed to provide an all-in-one, quick-to-install and easy-to-assemble module.

By focusing on ease of maintenance and rapid deployment, the plant at Shepperton helps producers like Cemex meet fluctuating market demands without the long lead times associated with traditional static builds “The UltraWASH represents modular efficiency and seeing it in action on a site like the one at Cemex Shepperton is the best way to understand its true impact on a producer’s bottom line, as well as how efficient the system is while also having such a compact footprint with its modular design,” McLanahan business line director for aggregates systems David Hunter said.

The UltraWASH modular washing system is a combined unit for washing, screening, and sand processing.

Virgin sand and gravel are fed into the plant, where they are cleaned and separated.

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Oversized material is then conveyed back to a crusher for increased yield, producing more 0–4mm, 4–10mm and 10–20mm product.

The material produced by the plant is typically used in concrete and drainage products supplied to the west London area near the Shepperton plant.

The wash plant has been operational for approximately 18 months and can take up to 180 tonnes of feed material per hour.

It was the result of significant collaboration between the McLanahan and Cemex engineering teams, including customisation for maintenance access, with a walkway along the side of the conveyor.

Hunter said the trend towards easily relocatable plants, such as the UltraWASH, is increasing and driven by the scarcity of large deposits in the London area, the shorter lifespan of extraction sites, and the need to process smaller sites efficiently.

“In days gone by people would be getting extraction licences for a site that is from five up to 15 million tonnes of reserves in total,” he said.

“Now if they’re getting between three and five million tonnes, they are doing very well.

“That’s probably one of the reasons why a lot of companies are looking to go down the recycled aggregates route.

“If they can re-purpose a lot of the material within the industry, it’s a win-win for everyone involved.

“The brief we were given is that we need to be able to relocate this plant.

“It needs to be easy to assemble and easy to take down so whenever the site is finished, they can move the plant to another site and process another deposit.”

Hunter said the industry is seeing a significant shift towards construction and demolition waste recycling, with a majority of inquiries and recent installations focusing on this area, as well as soil washing and trommel fines, rather than traditional sand and gravel operations.

McLanahan is also addressing emerging environmental concerns, particularly the removal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances which are synthetic chemicals from processed water. McLanahan is partnering with specialised third-party providers to offer solutions to customers.

Paul Reynolds is the commercial manager for Cemex UK in the south of England and is responsible for sales and distribution of material produced at the Shepperton site.

Cemex currently has two other production sites in the vicinity of Shepperton, but these will be closing in the near future.

Reynolds said Cemex has around 15 production sites in total, in the south of England region.

Reynolds agreed with Hunter that “the world is changing and you are going for smaller deposit sites.”

“We have to be more nimble and agile in order to work those deposits. Annually we can produce up to 250,000 tonnes from the Shepperton site,” he said.

Reynolds said the operators had been impressed by the performance of the plant.

“The reliability of the plant is essential, and that has been fantastic with McLanahan,” he said.

“When any issues have occurred, they have been excellent at keeping downtime to a minimum.” AB

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AWARDS

Innovation on display Innovators in excavators, loaders and attachments were among those recognised at the Italian quarrying and construction equipment show SaMoTer.

The winners by category: HYDRAULIC EXCAVATORS DEVELON – Winner • E-stop For highly innovative solutions in active and passive safety.

KOBELCO CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY EUROPE BV – Technical Mention • SK165SRLC For standardised production of excavators dedicated to highly specialised applications.

HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY (EUROPE) NV – Technical Mention and Design Award • LANDCROS Mini For an innovative concept in the miniexcavator field.

MIDI EQUIPMENT S.P.A. – Technical Mention • TB20e Remote Control Kit For optimising an electrified mini-excavator and expanding its use in hazardous environments through remote operation.

WHEEL LOADERS VF VENIERI SPA – Winner and DESIGN AWARD • VF22.03 – VF25.03 – VF27.03 – VF30.03 For an innovative project allowing maximum operational flexibility independent of a single power source.

HIDROMEK – Winner and DESIGN AWARD • HMK 635 WL Teleopera For enabling remote operation with maximum comfort, even in extreme conditions, while keeping the operator safe.

SDLG NETHERLANDS B.V. – Winner • L958HEV For innovative and highly efficient electric powertrain technology.

SKID LOADERS CORMIDI SRL – Winner • Mini Track Loader CLX1500 For significantly improving safety in compact track loaders with patented solutions.

MAKBRENT SRL – Winner • MAK 150 For outstanding performance and a unique level of safety for its size and category.

TELEHANDLERS • MERLO S.P.A. – Winner Non-original attachment configuration

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The jury evaluated entries based on energy efficiency, production optimisation, ergonomics, operator safety, and sustainability in both construction processes and machine usage. The Female Leadership Award in the construction sector went to Giacomina Venieri.

The International Award for Major Works and Infrastructure Innovation was presented to Webuild for the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric projects in the world and the biggest on the African continent. AB

and management system – Patent No. 102022000018777 For raising safety levels when using telehandlers with various attachments.

LIFTING MACHINES M.T.S. SRL – Winner • Mountain Spider For an innovative concept enabling safe operation in complex and diverse environments.

TRANSPORT MACHINES WACKER NEUSON SRL – Winner • Dual View Dumper DV 125 with Active Sense Control For strong focus on safety in an increasingly widespread machine category.

PLANTS BLEND PLANTS – Winner •Blend E-Series and A240 Full Electric For innovative engineering of electrified drives, solving space constraints.

ROTAIR SPA – Winner • VRK-e For a practical solution reducing emissions and operating costs in small compressor applications.

CIFA SPA – Mention • K60H For improving safety and versatility in a market-leading machine.

SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS TRACKUNIT – Winner • IrisX For simplifying machine management workflows from predictive maintenance to optimised use.

R.I. RAPPRESENTANZE INDUSTRIALI SRL – Winner • RI Rent Control Platform For streamlining operational management for companies and rental providers.

COSMIC S.R.L. – Winner • LUISCO System For significantly enhancing safety on construction sites in a simple, practical and efficient way.

CNH INDUSTRIAL ITALIA S.P.A. – Winner • RoofX For developing a modular system usable across multiple machine types.

ATTACHMENTS CGT SPA / ALAYAN SPA – Winner • LDR Excavation Bucket RodRadar For solving a critical operational issue in urban environments.

STEELWRIST – Winner • QCSQ40 – SQ40 Quick Coupler For high hydraulic flow and advanced standards in automatic couplers for mini excavators.

DYNASET OY – Winner • The HRVB-HD Hydraulic Recycling Vacuum Bucket For efficiently removing light pollutants in remediation and demolition sites.

MAKBRENT – Winner • MRP 50_15N For reducing working times and improving efficiency and safety in road construction.

MANTOVANIBENNE SRL – Winner • SH2500F Shear For advanced technology in high-performance equipment for marine demolition.

SIMEX SRL – Winner • D-BLADE 200 Diamond Cutting Disc for Skid Steer For achieving very high productivity in a mature equipment category.

OFFICINE MALAGUTI SRL – Mention • Pile Centering Collar for PLURY Vibratory Driver For increasing safety in a widely used but still accident-prone application.

SEPPI M. SPA – Mention • MAXICRUSHR xd For patented technology opening new possibilities in soil stabilisation.

RUD KETTEN RIEGER & DIETZ – Mention • ELASTO GRIP For significantly improving safety with an original rubber track anchoring system.

HETTEC-COMPONENTS GMBH – Mention • HETTEC ELASTO Apex For increasing safety in mini and midi excavators with rubber tracks.

Image: SaMoTer/Veronafiere

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hirty winners triumphed at the 25th edition of the SaMoTer Innovation Award competition.

The awards for this year's event were presented by respected industry personnel including Veronafiere president Federico Bricolo; Veronafiere chief executive officer Barbara Ferro; Veronafiere deputy general manager Gianni Bruno; Veronafiere exhibition manager of the B2B area Valeria Santolin; and SaMoTer event manager Matteo Pasinato.

COMPONENTS CMB S.R.L. – Winner • HYDRAMEC 360° For significantly improving safety in forestry handling by enhancing stability and reducing accident risks.

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am

Aggregates Business is a go-to source for up-to-date news and views on the American aggregates and building materials sectors.

Our wide-ranging features line-up includes in-depth articles on the latest loading, hauling, and crushing and screening machines.

Contact: Les Ilyefalvy +61 423 177 966 les.ilyefalvy@primeglobalpublishing.com

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INTERNATIONAL

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025 | Vol.13 ISSUE No.5 | www.AggBusiness.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025 | Vol.19 ISSUE No.5 | www.AggBusiness.com

Hauled to the top

Hauling all over the world

Rokbak and Volvo CE deliver innovative hauling solutions p34

Manufacturers innovate for smarter hauling operations p34

INTERVIEW Paolo Zambianchi champions aggregate technology p20

MARKET REPORT The latest from Indonesian quarrying and aggregates p8

QUARRY PROFILE How Metso is supporting the Indian quarrying sector p12

INTERVIEW Paolo Zambianchi champions aggregate technology p20

MARKET REPORT The latest from the Eastern European aggregates market p08

QUARRY PROFILE Brookland invests in Liebherr GB machinery p13

AMERICA

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025 | Vol.1 ISSUE No.5 | www.AggBusiness.com

Eccentric technology that drives efficiency Haver & Boecker Niagara delivers exceptional results through fascinating engineering p10

NSSGA How NSSGA events are uniting the US aggregates industry p08

INTERVIEW Terra CO2 reach for the cement CO₂-busting stars p12

QUARRY PROFILE Liebherr USA offers Hawaiian concrete certainty p16

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ATTACHMENTS

An exciting future awaits As Simex celebrates 35 years of successful operations, its path forward is paved with innovation as the manufacturer continues to redefine screening solutions.

Simex has a presence in the Italian and other key global markets.

The company has continued to maintain a strong presence at international trade shows, including exhibiting at its own stand at Hillhead 2026, as it looks to consolidate its position in key international markets.

Most recently, Simex exhibited at SaMoTer 2026 in Verona as the Italian trade show dedicated to construction, earthmoving, and lifting machinery returned.

Simex showcased the VSE Tornado screening buckets at SaMoTer 2026.

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Images: Simex

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ounded in 1991, Simex has experienced consistent growth over three decades, driven by technological innovation and a strong commitment to customer needs, earning recognition for quality solutions and dedication to innovation.

Starting from modest beginnings, the company has steadily expanded its product lineup to include road maintenance equipment, such as cold planer machines and wheel excavators. It has also grown in the demolition and material recycling sectors by offering various screening and crushing buckets, as well as excavator cutter heads.

Now as the company marks 35 years in business, it is confidently looking ahead to a bright future according to Simex chief executive officer Mirco Risi.

“Celebrating 35 years of activity means looking back with pride at the journey we have undertaken, but above all continuing to invest in innovation, people, and relationships to face future challenges,” he said.

It comes on the back of a successful 2025 for Simex, in which the company achieved solid results and significant growth across nearly all key markets.

The trade fair was attended by industry professionals from around the world as some of the world’s biggest manufacturers showcased their latest solutions and innovations for the market.

At the centre of Simex’s exhibition was the Simex ART 1000, with the solution ready to be adopted into both the Italian and overseas markets. The ART 1000 is designed to excel in the rapid, effective, and sustainable repair of minor road damage.

Alongside the ART 1000, Simex also showcased the VSE Tornado screening buckets, the latest addition to the well-known VSE range, which now covers excavators from 1.5 tonnes to 50 tonnes.

Designed for on-site material selection, cleaning, and recovery, the VSE Tornado screening buckets have been used for screening waste materials in demolition waste and aggregate applications, enabling operators to recover more valuable materials for reuse on-site or for transport as sellable materials. By reprocessing this material on-site, disposal costs and the cost of importing new materials are reduced, thereby supporting a business’s financial viability.

The VSE Tornado screening buckets are designed to sort materials of varying sizes directly on-site, even when moisture is present. The updated three-shaft system with star-shaped components increases material swirling, boosting processing efficiency and overall productivity. The screening bucket features an innovative quick-change system, a Simex-patented technology for replacing the entire shaft or individual screening elements. This solution enables quick, easy on-site maintenance, minimising downtime and ensuring continuous operation and higher efficiency.

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ATTACHMENTS

Depending on the material type, the bucket can feature polyurethane tools, which are perfect for wet or sandy soils and helps maintain the integrity of the screened material. Alternatively, it can be fitted with steel tools, suitable for more demanding tasks and abrasive materials.

Simex research and development project engineer Nicola Sisti said the company is exploring new frontiers in on-site material separation, highlighting the benefits of cost savings, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

“This approach aims at reducing disposal costs and help private users save on costs,” he said.

“This is perfectly in line with Simex’s philosophy of promoting sustainable and cost-effective solutions for industry professionals and builds on our innovation of screening buckets, where we have traditionally been on recovering heavy aggregate materials from demolition and crushing.”

As part of SaMoTer 2026, Simex participated in the SaMoTer Innovation Award competition with its new D-Blade solution. The D-Blade is a diamond cutting disc designed to deliver high performance, precision and reliability in cutting operations.

This solution reflects Simex’s ongoing commitment to developing advanced technologies to improve efficiency and productivity on job sites.

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The D-Blade was recognised at the SaMoTer Innovation Awards.

Common applications for the D-Blade include controlled removal of asphalt sections for repairs, opening new road manholes, and making straight cuts for fibre optic cable installations, particularly during final building connections.

A clean, burr-free cut minimises waste and prevents trench wall collapse.

The D-Blade was one of the winners in the attachment category at the

awards, with judges praising Simex for designing an attachment that delivers “very high productivity in a mature equipment category.”

With these significant milestones, Simex reaffirms its commitment to becoming a leading player in the industry, blending extensive experience with a forwardlooking focus on technological progress and global markets. AB

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SUSTAINABILITY

The global sand challenge Industry associations have endorsed a new report calling for urgent action to address the global “sand gap” and improve sustainable management of sand resources. crushed rock – as a strategic mineral that’s absolutely essential for economic development,” he said.

“This represents a truly global issue as even in developed economies like the UK, the need for and supply of essential minerals that underpin our built environment and wider economic activity can be taken for granted.

“UNEP has once again highlighted that, for all the attention on critical minerals, there needs to be equal recognition of the role and importance of sand.”

In the report, UNEP said that sand resources, encompassing all primary aggregates including sand, gravel, and crushed rock, are essential for built development and infrastructure, and that their supply cannot be taken for granted.

Equally, the report said that sand is a key part of many active ecosystems, and contributes to natural habitats, food and water security, climate resilience, flood risk reduction and tourism.

The UK sector is cited by UNEP as demonstrating good practice, highlighting its structured regulatory and licensing approach to marine extraction, its scienceled monitoring system, and a responsible approach to land-based extraction and restoration. In other parts of the world, UNEP said extraction activities could benefit from improved regulation which would allow sand to be removed from active geological systems such as rivers and beaches, with little consideration for the impacts on local communities or natural ecosystems.

The report also calls for greater use of sustainable alternatives such as secondary aggregates (by-products of other industrial processes) and recycled aggregates (made from construction, demolition and excavation waste). That’s another area in which the UK is a global leader according to UNEP, with almost 30 per cent of aggregate demand already being met from secondary or recycled sources.

Image: Adobe Stock/Riski Digital Studio

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he sustainable management of global sand resources and the strategic importance of aggregates to global economic development and nature recovery are highlighted in a new study.

The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) report, Sand and Sustainability: An Essential Resource for Nature and Development, was welcomed by the UK trade associations, the Mineral Products Association (MPA) and the Washed Aggregates Trade Association (WATA).

The MPA, which represents the vast majority of UK aggregate producers, has said sand remains a critical yet undervalued resource as the world’s most extracted solid material.

MPA executive director for planning and mineral resources Mark Russell said the report highlighted a key issue for all industry stakeholders to consider.

“In this report UNEP recognises sand resources, including sand, gravel and

Sand is a key material for many applications.

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SUSTAINABILITY

WATA CEO Andy Hill.

Image: WATA

Other areas addressed in the report include the importance of responsible sourcing in the supply chain.

UNEP’s recommended embedding responsible sourcing standards into public tenders, requiring transparency, environmental safeguards, long-term material planning, and adherence to international standards, while moving beyond lowest-cost procurement to incorporate environmental and social impacts into decision-making. In the UK, 96 per cent of domestic concrete production is certified to BES 6001, the standard for responsibly sourced construction materials.

The UNEP report was also endorsed by the UK’s Washed Aggregates Trade Association (WATA).

WATA said the report’s findings reinforced the importance of increasing the use of washed recycled aggregates within UK construction and infrastructure projects.

“The UNEP report highlights the urgent need to reduce pressure on virgin sand extraction while continuing to meet the demands of modern construction and infrastructure,” WATA chief executive officer Andy Hill said.

“The washed aggregates sector can play a major role in helping to deliver a sustainable solution to the sand crisis by washing and recycling high-quality aggregates, including sand.

“The washed aggregates sector can play a major role in helping to deliver a sustainable solution to the sand crisis by washing and recycling high-quality aggregates, including sand.” - Andy Hill

“Washed recycled aggregates are already helping to conserve natural resources in the UK. It’s a growing sector which is reducing waste sent to landfill and supporting a more circular economy.”

The UNEP report said the demand for sand for buildings is expected to rise by 45 per cent by 2060.

Against this backdrop, WATA is calling for stronger policy support to encourage the use of washed recycled aggregates across UK construction projects, including the introduction of minimum recycledcontent requirements in public procurement contracts. The association said that clearer national targets, improved resource planning, and greater recognition of recycled aggregates in sustainability policy will help accelerate the transition towards more responsible mineral use.

“WATA is keen to see a greater use of recycled aggregates in public and private sector projects because they significantly reduce reliance on primary extraction while helping to meet the UK’s construction targets and circular economy goals,” Hill said.

“The construction sector must balance development needs with environmental protection. The washed aggregates industry is ready to contribute to that transition and support a more sustainable future for the built environment.” AB

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TYRES

Image: Triangle Tyre

Triangle Tyre exhibited at Hillhead alongside its official UK distributor Vaculug.

Durability and uptime in focus Triangle Tyre showcased its latest off-the-road tyre technology at Hillhead 2026.

The manufacturer used the event to demonstrate how its expanding portfolio is helping quarry operators reduce downtime and maximise machine performance.

T

riangle Tyre returned to Hillhead 2026 alongside Vaculug, its official UK distributor for the brand’s off-the-road (OTR) range, showcasing its distribution model designed to improve product availability and customer support across the UK quarry and construction sectors.

The exhibition, widely regarded as the UK’s leading live demonstration event for quarrying, recycling and heavy construction, was held from 23–25 June at Hillhead Quarry in Buxton, Derbyshire. Triangle Tyre and Vaculug exhibited at Stand V10, showcasing a focused selection of Triangle’s OTR portfolio for quarry and earthmoving fleets.

The Triangle-Vaculug partnership aims to strengthen Triangle’s UK market footprint with a service-led distribution approach, supporting customers where tyre performance is measured not only by tread life but also by uptime, productivity, and cost-per-hour.

In addition to supporting end users, the Triangle-Vaculug collaboration is designed to strengthen Triangle’s position in the UK trade channel through a structured dealer supply program. Triangle Tyre OTR director for Europe, Luca Mai said it was an important opportunity to highlight the company’s UK capabilities.

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“Hillhead is the most important quarry and construction exhibition in the UK, and we are pleased to have attended together with our exclusive importer, Vaculug,” he said.

“The partnership allows us to combine a strong global OTR product range with local distribution capability and service support.

“We enjoyed the opportunity to welcome customers and trade partners to our stand and demonstrate how Triangle can support the UK market with performance, reliability and availability.”

Triangle-Vaculug’s Hillhead display showcased key OTR tyre solutions from Triangle for the equipment categories that are most commonly used in UK quarrying and construction sectors.

The selection reflected Triangle’s focus on delivering robust OTR tyres engineered to perform in harsh working conditions, helping end users improve their operational efficiency and reduce unplanned downtime.

These solutions included: • Rigid and articulated dump truck fitments, engineered for traction, durability and rock abrasion resistance • Loader and dozer patterns, designed to support high loads, stability and long service life.

•

Severe service quarry designs, developed for extreme front-of-quarry environments where cut resistance is critical.

• Industrial and mobile equipment fitments, supporting mixed on/off-road operation with consistent wear performance.

Triangle Tyre is among the largest global producers of OTR radial tyres, with a portfolio developed for quarry, mining, industrial and heavy construction applications.

Vaculug, established in 1950 and widely recognised as Europe’s largest independent retreader, brings strong UK market reach and a long-standing reputation in tyre lifecycle management. The collaboration is positioned to offer quarry operators a stronger combination of supply continuity, technical support, and practical fleet service capabilities, aligned with the increasing market focus on total cost of ownership and sustainabilitydriven purchasing decisions.

By combining local stockholding, improved trade availability and responsive logistics, the partnership aims to provide UK OTR tyre dealers and specialist distributors with reliable access to Triangle’s portfolio, including key quarry and earthmoving fitments and fastmoving sizes, backed by technical product support and consistent nationwide supply. AB

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CONVEYORS

Secondary and tertiary cleaners are all specially designed to clear the belt of hidden fines that could create dust along the return.

How to avoid a conveyor calamity Martin Engineering President Emeritus Todd Swinderman shares his tips to help high-volume conveyors avoid making a high-volume mess.

T

he battle against dust in bulk handling is a seemingly never-ending struggle.

The location and number of belt cleaners needed for production volume and application on a belt conveyor system are directly linked to safety, emissions, and operating costs.

A common design issue is determining the optimal locations for belt cleaners.

Structural, spatial, and safe-access considerations can pose limitations.

The configuration of discharge chutes and the installation of a dribble chute to capture extra discharge may also need to be factored into the design.

This article will discuss design calculations for the placement of secondary cleaners.

The Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association (CEMA) defines the secondary position as the space between the head pulley and the snub pulley on the belt’s return run. Unfortunately, structural designs often result in a very short section of belt surface between the head pulley and the snub pulley, which is the ideal location for many secondary cleaner designs.

This limited distance leaves little room for belt cleaners in the secondary position, a situation further complicated by the space required for a dribble chute.

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Additionally, designers often place work platforms based on major components, overlooking access for belt cleaner inspection or maintenance.

Belt cleaners typically require more attention than major components to ensure system efficiency because the blades are wear components that must be maintained at optimal cleaning pressures.

Proper placement depends on several factors, with the main being the pulley diameter.

There are many simple options designers should consider: 1. Is the drive pulley wrap angle really necessary, or are you just applying it out of habit?

A common default wrap is 210 degrees, created by the position of the snub pulley.

The gap between the head pulley and snub pulley is an ideal location for a secondary cleaner, but the combination of pulley diameters and wrap angle may make mounting a secondary cleaner difficult

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CONVEYORS

one or two cleaners in the secondary position, significantly reducing fugitive material.

3. Prioritise ergonomic access to the belt cleaners.

Maintenance personnel can spend up to a third of their time simply gaining access to equipment. Designing access to seldominspected or -maintained components in accordance with minimum walkway codes increases costs. Consider structures and work platforms that facilitate belt cleaner inspection and maintenance.

4. Consider using motorised drive pulleys.

Motorised pulleys offer energy advantages and weight savings and open up space for

The drive pulley tension relationship.

Images: Martin Engineering

and maintenance nearly impossible. We recommend utilising an updated engineering design program that uses either the Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN) or CEMA methods for calculating accurate tension values and the required wrap angle.

2. Consider using a larger diameter head pulley.

Choosing a head pulley based on the minimum diameter may seem like it saves money; however, MSHA reports that up to 85 per cent of maintenance problems are due to fugitive materials, which increase costs for cleanup, labour, and equipment replacement.[1] A larger head pulley can allow the installation of two cleaners in the primary position and enough snub pulley space for

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belt cleaner installation and maintenance.

Since all rotating components (including the main bearings) are located inside the pulley, the external stub shafts need minimal space to be mounted to the structure.

5. Consider professionally trained installation.

Belt cleaners must be mounted accurately, typically within a few millimetres, to operate optimally and reduce the risk of damaging the belt. Partnering with the belt cleaner supplier guarantees proper installation with minimal adjustments.

Adequate belt tension A critical design requirement is to determine the amount of wrap around the drive pulley necessary to ensure adequate torque conversion from the drive to the belt tension required to move the belt without slipping.

It is interesting to note that the fundamental relationship describing this transfer does not depend on the pulley diameter, but rather on the coefficient of friction between the belt and pulley, the wrap angle and the belt tensions required to prevent slip.

Geometry and location of the secondary belt cleaner Assumption: Top and bottom runs of the conveyor belt (X) are parallel entering the

Variables: ϴ = Wrap angle of belt around head pulley. ω = Wrap Angle, ϴ, - 180 degrees.

H = The height of the opening for the Secondary belt cleaner blades and frame installation.

Rh = Radius of Head pulley plus lagging, plus belt thickness

head pulley and leaving the snub pulley.

Some secondary cleaners must be installed at least 50 mm from the point where the belt leaves the head pulley, so this offset should also be considered if needed. Additionally, the X dimension must be verified against the idler dimensions to ensure sufficient installation space.

A similar analysis of precleaner placement indicates that with a 1200mm-diameter head pulley, two primary cleaners can be installed alongside a secondary cleaner. The inclusion of tertiary cleaners is possible but may not be necessary if two precleaners and a secondary are mounted on the head pulley.

A belt cleaner system should be properly specified, designed, and installed to achieve the long-term cost benefits of reduced fugitive material.

Secondary mounting location basic layout.

Secondary mounting space example.

Compliance is also imporant. OSHA, 1926.1412(d)(1) and MSHA 75.362 state, “A competent person must begin a visual inspection prior to each shift the equipment will be used, which must be completed before or during that shift.”[2] Safe access with adequate space for installation, maintenance, and inspection is critical to supporting longer system life and lower operating costs. AB

References [1] 2014 Pit and Quarry Operations Handbook, Chapter 10, page 145 [2] Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), “§ 1926.1412 Inspections”, Dec, 2023. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/ subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1926/subpart-CC/ section-1926.1412

Rs = Radius of Snub pulley plus lagging, plus belt thickness.

(Snub Pulley Diameter default value: 0.64 × head pulley diameter per DIN 22101) T = The width off the opening for the Secondary belt cleaner blades and frame installation.

W = Length of belt segment tangent to both the Head and Snub pulleys.

X = Distance between top and bottom runs of the conveyor belt.

Y = The vertical distance between the top run of the conveyor belt on the Head pulley and the tangent point where the belt leaves the Head pulley and starts the return run.

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EVENTS

Raising the bar Hillhead 2026 was a show not to be missed, and it delivered in spades as industry professionals from around the world attended the UK showcase.

H

illhead 2026 delivered a clear snapshot of an industry evolving at pace, with manufacturers using the event to unveil new equipment, emerging technologies and more sustainable operating solutions.

Across the quarry floor, live demonstrations and major product launches drew strong crowds as quarrying, mining and construction professionals gathered to assess the latest advances shaping the sector’s future.

Aggregates Business takes a look at the key product launches and demonstrations that took place in Hillhead’s Buxton Quarry.

Astec Not one, not two, but eight product launches occurred at Hillhead thanks to Astec which unveiled several products for the European market.

From crushing and screening to washing and material handling, there was something for everyone as Astec delivered an exhibition focused on reducing downtime, improving throughput, and lowering cost per tonne for their customers.

With eight new products and patented technology innovations spread across two large stands and in the ‘Crusher Alley’ Rock Processing Demo Area, Astec made a big statement at Hillhead 2026 with its ambitious growth plans in Europe and the rest of the world, built on its rich 150-year engineering history.

At Astec’s exhibition press conference on day one, attendees heard that the company’s new product line is focused on innovation and application. This includes new washing plants, material handling equipment, screening technology, and mobile crushing and screening units. The eight products on show at Hillhead 2026 are among more than 20 that will enter the quarrying, roadbuilding, construction, and recycling markets from Astec over the next two years.

The Astec senior management team panel of chief executive officer Jaco van der Merwe; group president of materials solutions Michael Norris; managing director for Astec Europe Damian Power; vice president for product management Stephen Whyte; and vice president for channel management Malachy Gribben, said the company’s investment in its Omagh, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, facility has established a strong European footprint, enabling local manufacturing of the new Frontier range of tracked crushing and screening units unveiled at Hillhead 2026.

“We are global but local in Europe. We have 230 people in our Omagh facility, across manufacturing, engineering and product support,” Power said.

“We now have a critical mass for product support and parts and service in the European region. This facility was built with expansion in mind, offering a runway for growth over the next five years.”

Astec differentiates itself through unique product features, including its patented MultiFrequency Screen, which addresses blinding issues, and its new patented Vari LPV screen, which represents next-generation technology.

“If you look around some of the products here, there are not many companies in our industry that have the level of new product development, either completed in recent years or ongoing, that we do,” Whyte said.

Further to this, van der Merwe said Astec stands out in a highly competitive crushing and screening solution marketplace.

“Customers buy the whole team, not just the equipment. That includes the dealer network, some of whom we have here, who are among the best people in the industry.

We are a parts and service business that sells equipment, and if we provide that to our customers, the features and benefits you see on every other machine [at Hillhead 2026] become a whole lot less important,” he said.

The European quarrying sector has faced challenges in recent years, but Malachy Gribben said Astec sees significant growth opportunities and projects an upward trend in aggregate production over the next three to five years.

The company aims to increase its market share in Europe, even in a soft market.

“There are some big markets in Europe, such as Germany, but establishing a strong base here in the UK will be a firm start for us,” van der Merwe said.

When asked a question on Astec’s engineering heritage, dating back to

Images: Astec

Astec had a strong presence at Hillhead 2026.

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Image: Telestack

1876, van der Merwe said it will be a notable benefit in executing its European growth strategy.

“We have done this for a while. We are definitely not a new player in the market. Our legacy was built on innovation and customer service, and that is what we bring to Europe, and it is an offer that will work anywhere in the world,” he said.

During the press conference, van der Merwe told attendees that Astec, as a major US-headquartered off-highway equipment manufacturer with a 4500-strong global workforce, is actively pursuing growth in Europe through organic development and strategic acquisitions, leveraging a strong balance sheet.

He said the company's acquisitions will focus on areas within its core business, such as crushing, asphalt, and concrete equipment, to bolster its European platform.

Whyte and van der Merwe said customer needs are evolving towards lower cost per tonne, driven by challenges such as labour shortages and rising fuel and energy costs. Astec is responding with more efficient equipment, digital telematicsbased platforms for remote monitoring and predictive maintenance, and a focus on energy efficiency. The Signal connectivity suite from Astec Digital delivers seamless communication and monitoring across all customer plant and mobile assets, generating actionable insights to boost efficiency, productivity and profitability.

“If you look at our Signal platform, you can compare it to the Apple environment, with your MacBook, your iPad and your iPhone, which are all working in the same connectivity suite. A lot of our customers work across the aggregates, asphalt, concrete, and paving spaces, and we can provide them with a digital resource to drive their businesses,” Norris said.

At the Hillhead 2026 press conference, attendees heard how Astec is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and automation across its operations, from product

32

Astec launched new products for its European customers at Hillhead. development (predictive maintenance, autonomous breakers) to business processes (energy efficiency calculators, AI-driven vision systems for asphalt plants).

Astec DropZone, van der Merwe said, is an intelligent, AI-powered load-out safety system designed to streamline asphalt delivery and prevent costly misloads.

It replaces manual silo loading by utilising computer vision to precisely verify truck positioning beneath the silo, safeguarding both drivers and equipment. The press conference showed how Astec is also investing in training its leadership in AI. Astec’s senior management team said the company’s Hillhead 2026 showcase focused on solving real operational challenges by reducing downtime, improving throughput, and lowering cost per tonne.

Hillhead 2026 marked the European launch of the new Frontier tracked mobile crushing and screening range. The new range is built for flexibility, fast setup, and highperformance production in demanding hard rock environments.

Astec also unveiled the global launch of the Kolberg Washing brand and featured the Eco-Scrub modular washing solution,

delivering wet processing with a design especially suited for semi-mobile locations.

The exhibition launch of Astec’s Modex brand, featuring the patented Vari-Frequency Technology that minimises binding and maximises output, was showcased on Astec Modex’s Pioneer 6203LPV horizontal screen.

Proven for over two decades on tough materials and unveiled in Europe at Hillhead 2026, Astec’s Multi-Frequency Screen is available on tracks, wheels or static, and notably reduces blinding even with sticky materials. In certain applications, the product can produce manufactured sand from crushed rock fines without washing and turn quarry scalpings into saleable products.

It is also well-suited for reclaimed asphalt pavement, topsoil, compost, and skip waste fines. Celebrating 25 years Astec’s Telestack brand was also well represented at Hillhead 2026, with the worldwide launch of the LF527 low feed hopper, which reduces double handling and ensures smooth, controlled material flow, and the TCL 1031 Zero, a heavy-duty stacker engineered to handle high tonnage reliably and efficiently.

‘Crusher Alley’ attendees watched Astec’s Frontier JA45 Mobile Jaw delivering consistent, high-output crushed aggregate to the Frontier SDF16 Mobile Scalper, resulting in multiple products with peerless flexibility.

Telestack exhibited at Hillhead 2026.

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EVENTS

Smiley Monroe has a strong presence in the UK market.

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worldwide to ensure its product and service offerings meet market needs.

Red Knight 6 managing director Paul Donnelly said he was impressed with the new technologies that Astec was releasing.

“O’Kane Equipment Solutions managing director Kieran O’Kane and I both have 30 years in the industry and have lived with some many changes and false dawns,” he said.

“With the technologies Astec have, such as the Multi-Frequency Screen, we’ve been testing it here in the UK, and Astec is doing things others can’t. It’s exciting for us as dealers. Equipment costs have risen significantly, customers are not getting much more money for the material they are extracting from the ground, so equipment now has to last five or six years, when before it was financed in a three-year cycle.

“Quality build and innovation is why Astec is the partner we want to work with.”

Smiley Monroe Smiley Monroe showcased its conveyor belt range, giving customers an up-close look at how the Northern Ireland manufacturer can help maximise machine uptime and reduce operational costs.

The manufacturer’s Zip Clip, Tough Flex and Integracleat innovations proved popular with customers from the crushing and screening, recycling, agriculture, road construction and environmental sectors.

Zip Clip: A ready-to-fit replacement belt system that gets machines back up and running in as little as one hour, removing the need for vulcanising and significantly reducing downtime.

Toughflex: The company’s all-round solution for extreme conveying environments, engineered for the toughest operating conditions and deliver a service life of up to four times longer than standard EP multi-ply belts.

Image: Smiley Monroe

Astec recently appointed Red Knight 6 (England and Wales) and O’Kane Equipment Solutions (Scotland and Northern England) as its official GB distributors for the new Frontier tracked crushing and screening brand.

The press conference heard how both distributors bring deep industry knowledge and strong customer relationships, making them ideal partners for Astec and its globally recognised engineering and UK-manufactured equipment.

Gribben said Astec was taking a focused approach to growing its European distributor network.

“You walk around this quarry [at Hillhead 2026] and see line after line of crushing and screening plant. We invested a lot of time and effort talking to the European market and industry stakeholders, including end users and potential dealers, and asking, ‘What’s going on in your world and where do you see things going?’ One very consistent message was that those stakeholders were seeing less and less differentiation in the market,” he said.

“Like everything else, when you’re buying a crusher or a car, you want choice.

We quickly realised that if we could offer a proven and credible alternative, not just on the product side, but also in parts and service, and a team that truly walks in the shoes of the customer, we would stand out.”

Gribben said Red Knight 6 and O’Kane Equipment Solutions will support Astec’s offer to UK customers.

“Although the announcement has been made within the last couple of months, we have been working closely together for the last couple of years. Their strong relationships with customers and within the wider industry are clear, and they have a similar outlook to ours,” he said.

Whyte said as part of its wider company development program, Astec works with customer and dealer advocacy groups

Integracleat: Custom cleated belts featuring integrally moulded profiles, designed to move materials efficiently and reliably across a wide range of industrial applications.

The Hillhead exhibition continued Smiley Monroe’s growing presence in the UK market following the launch of its Midlands Hub in Ilkeston, Derbyshire. The facility has one of the largest stockholdings of conveyor belts in the UK and Ireland, ensuring fast lead times for customers.

“GB has always been an important market for us. Our customers wanted faster access to the products they need, and the Midlands Hub allows us to respond quickly and efficiently,” Smiley Monroe chief executive officer Chris Monroe said.

Finlay Finlay’s exhibition at Hillhead was a look into the future with a line-up featuring prototype previews and first-looks at new impactors in the demonstration and display areas.

Fundamental to Finlay’s showcase was the I-130RS impact crusher on static display, with Hillhead marking its first public showing. The new model is positioned between the I-120/I-120RS and the larger I-140/I-140RS and is designed for operators looking for a high-performing solution that is easy to transport and configure across a range of applications.

The I-130RS impact crusher was joined in the static display area by Finlay TC-60 stacker conveyor, the Finlay 883+ heavy-duty scalper, and the Finlay J-1280 jaw crusher.

Finlay put its crushing and screening solutions to the test with a series of live demonstrations.

Visitors to the live demonstration area were able to witness Finlay’s machines operating in live conditions, handling real materials to demonstrate their performance in real time.

The 694 inclined screen was put to the test in a high-production demonstration.

The machine, which was launched in 2025, features two full-size 6.1m x 1.53m top and middle decks and a 5.55m bottom deck.

This makes it a suitable screening option for several applications, including quarrying, mining, sand and gravel, coal, woodchip, and topsoil operations. The C-1540+ cone crusher prototype was given an early showcase ahead of its planned production launch in 2027. The J-1170+ jaw crusher was demoed, highlighting its high production capacity and large reduction ratios for quarrying, construction, and demolition recycling applications.

“Hillhead gave us the opportunity to show the breadth of our offer in one location,” Finlay business line director Matt Dickson said.

“Visitors were able to examine new machines such as the impactor range on static display, while prototypes and core units operate in the quarry environment, allowing performance to be assessed on material under real working conditions.” AB © AGGREGATES BUSINESS July/August 2026

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CEMENT

Strengthening the UK Holcim UK’s Tilbury Cement Works encapsulates the evolving UK cement market, combining modern production technology with a logistics model centred on the Port of Tilbury.

F

“Tilbury is a transformational investment for Holcim UK,” he said.

“It will ultimately support our ECOPlanet low-carbon cement and ECOPlanet with ECOCycle and accelerate the shift to low-carbon and circular construction.

"This reflects our commitment to making sustainable construction a reality, and building a resilient, future-ready supply chain for our customers.”

Located in the heart of the Port of Tilbury, the site has deep-water marine access, significant storage capacity, and a new grinding and blending system that will be operational in late 2026. These assets, in combination, will enable Holcim UK to supply its lower-carbon cement products across the UK, including London and southeast London, a key market. Tilbury’s distribution importance is already clear, with the site commencing cement import and distribution in June 2026 as part of its wet commissioning programme. This involved a deep-sea vessel discharging material at the site.

The Tilbury Cement Works will feature the UK’s first 30,000-tonne cement dome silo.

Images: Holcim UK

ew cement projects in recent years have attracted as much industry attention as Holcim UK’s Tilbury Cement Works.

The major project sits within one of the UK’s busiest construction markets with the potential to define how the sector approaches manufacturing and logistics in the future.

The combination of advanced grinding technology and one of the UK's most strategically located ports makes Tilbury Cement Works important not only to Holcim UK, its owner, but also to the wider sector, which is increasingly seeking lower-carbon products and supply chain and logistics efficiencies to improve financial viability.

As the UK cement sector faces mounting pressure to reduce carbon emissions while strengthening supply chains, major investment is reshaping how cement is produced and distributed.

Holcim UK’s Tilbury Cement Works is a major example of that shift.

Holcim UK Cement Division managing director Mohammed Alami said the facility will play a central role in the company’s future.

The site will eventually be capable of transferring material from the vessel to the on-site storage area through its wet commissioning programme, and the material will then be processed and dispatched through six loading heads and five weighbridges.

In time, the facility is expected to receive large bulk cement carriers as part of Holcim’s global logistics network, including the green methanol-powered NACC Sustament, which is anticipated to arrive at Tilbury from 2027.

The vessel illustrates why Tilbury’s location within the Port of Tilbury is central to the project’s long-term strategy.

The cement sector, and its associated sectors, have traditionally relied on road and rail transport; however, as the sector is increasingly moving to lower-emission operations, the conventional methods are not as beneficial in that aspect because marine transport typically generates lower greenhouse gas emissions per tonnekilometre than road haulage, which is backed by the findings of the UK Department for Transport and the International Maritime Organisation.

Marine transport can move large volumes of material efficiently and typically produces

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CEMENT

lower greenhouse gas emissions per tonnekilometre than road haulage. Against this backdrop, the first commencement of cement distribution and importing is integral to the site being ramped up to full operations by the end of 2026.

“Initiating import and distribution of cementitious materials is a major step forward for Tilbury Cement Works and for Holcim’s ability to serve customers across the South East,” Holcim UK project manager Tim Fry said.

“This phase demonstrates the strength of the systems we’ve built, from marine logistics to storage and dispatch, and reflects the hard work of everyone involved in bringing this facility to life.

“As construction concludes in 2026 and we move into full operations, Tilbury will provide the flexibility, reliability and capacity to support our customers with a range of conventional, low carbon and circular cementitious materials.”

The location also provides flexibility, as Tilbury’s materials can be used not only in the London market, but Holcim UK can also import clinker and supplementary cementitious materials by sea and take advantage of the cement works’ extensive storage, including a dome-like superstructure which dominates the skyline around the site.

Given it is able to hold up to 30,000 tonnes of cement, it enables the company to receive large marine shipments and build inventory before grinding, blending and distributing finished cement across the UK. By separating clinker production from grinding and blending, manufacturers can source raw materials from multiple locations, respond more readily to market demand, and increase the proportion of supplementary cementitious materials (SCM) in finished cement.

The site is expected to bring a vertical roller mill (VRM) online in 2026, which will have the capacity to grind granulated blast furnace slag and recycled concrete fines, enabling the production of ground granulated blast furnace slag and blended cements.

The cement industry, both in the UK and internationally, is focusing on reducing clinker content to lower overall carbon emissions.

The integration of the VRM and its new capabilities boosts Tilbury’s role and increases Holcim’s ability to incorporate SCMs in its products, especially in its lowercarbon concretes, which are now confirmed for dispatch from Tilbury.

“This investment is about more than just capacity - it is about our impact,” Alami said.

“Tilbury embodies our strategy in action, bringing together innovation, sustainability, and scale to shape the next generation of construction in the UK.” Early signs indicate that customers prefer lower-carbon options. Holcim UK’s Circularity Survey in 2025 revealed that 97 per cent of respondents consider adopting circular practices important, a rise from 79 per cent in 2024.

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The multi-million-pound investment is well underway following the completion of the steelwork and installation of mechanical equipment in February. Holcim UK has estimated that the full grinding system will be completed by the end of the year, with electrical installation, testing, and commissioning still to be carried out.

Fry said the VRM was a necessary addition if Holcim UK wanted to serve the sustainable construction market.

“The systems being installed at our Tilbury Cement Works are not only investments in innovative equipment and infrastructure, but a commitment to our sustainable innovation pipeline,” he said.

“Alongside our promise to increase our low-carbon and circular products portfolio, we will provide absolute reliability with a consistent supply of cementitious materials.”

The site is being supported by an experienced team with Holcim UK beginning to appoint key leaders who will take charge when the cement works are operational.

Among them is Krish Patel, who has been appointed cement works plant manager, tasked with building the on-site team and establishing the systems and procedures the team will follow. The appointment marks something of a homecoming for Patel, who started at Holcim as an apprentice before working with Heidelberg Materials in several leadership roles, including as works manager at Heidelberg Materials’ Purefleet Cement terminal.

With the works well underway, Patel will play a key role in turning Holcim UK’s ambitious 24/7 cement terminal operational.

The Tilbury Cement Works is a major project by Holcim UK. But the size of the task and its importance do not faze the former apprentice.

“I’m excited to lead this next chapter as we look to deliver low-carbon and circular materials to the construction industry and build a high-performing operation that puts people, innovation and sustainability at its core,” he said.

“Tilbury will be a flagship terminal not only for Holcim, but for the wider industry – showcasing how cement manufacturing can evolve to meet the challenges of the construction sector and supply chain resilience.”

In an industry facing increasing pressure to decarbonise while maintaining reliable supply, projects such as Tilbury offer a glimpse of what the next generation of cement works could look like.

That is precisely how Holcim UK views the investment. More than a new production facility, Tilbury is intended to demonstrate how innovation, sustainability and logistics can work together to support a more resilient construction supply chain and accelerate the industry's transition towards circular, lowercarbon building materials.

“It demonstrates our commitment to building a future that is low carbon, circular, and resilient,” Holcim UK chief executive Lee Sleight said.

“Tilbury embodies our strategy in action: bringing together innovation, sustainability, and scale to shape the next generation of construction in the UK.” AB © AGGREGATES BUSINESS July/August 2026

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INTERVIEW

Granit Palin chief executive officer Heikki Palin.

Images: Granit Finland

HEIKKI PALIN Finland builds on granite heritage Finland is one of the largest global exporters of granite, with the export of stone products playing an important role in the country’s economy.

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INTERVIEW

T

he granite quarrying sector in Finland is steadily developing, driven by the presence of strong leading players in the country, that supply their products both to the domestic market and abroad.

Since the 1980s and 1990s, the country has made serious progress in this field, which resulted in a significant increase in the amount and range of granite that is produced within the country. Such success was also due to Finland’s rich traditions in this field.

Finland has a long history of granite mining, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, closely linked to the city of Saint Petersburg – the capital of the Russian Empire during that period. Being part of the Russian Empire until 1917, Finland actively supplied natural stone and granite to meet the needs of St. Petersburg, Moscow and other major Russian Empire cities. Most of these supplies were produced by quarries primarily located in the south-east of Finland. Since the first half of the 18th century, Finnish granite has been used as the main stone material in the construction of St. Petersburg. The earliest places where granite was mined were the famous quarries in Pyterlahti, located in Virolahti, not far from the modern border between Finland and Russia.

Sales of Pyterlahti granite created conditions for the development of the entire Finnish mining industry, with red rapakivi granite becoming something of a national stone symbol.

Finland is now one of the largest global exporters of granite, with the export of stone products playing an important role in the country’s economy. According to the Finnish Natural Stone Association, there are currently 200 companies in Finland that specialise in mining and processing granite and 50 to 60 granite quarries operating in the country.

Finland is among the top 10 exporters of granite worldwide.

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There are a number of important companies operating in Finland’s granite quarrying sector, known both domestically and abroad.

One such company is Palin Granit – a 100-year-old family business and the leading producer of high-quality Finnish granite blocks. The company began in 1921, when itinerant stonemason Antti Palin settled in Loimaa with his family and founded a stone carving workshop. The Palin Granit company was initially engaged in monument manufacturing before diversifying into construction, and is now focused on mining.

The largest quarry, owned by Palin Granit, produces between 15,000 and 20,000m3 of brown rapakivi material per year.

Palin Granit Oy produces stone in the Virolahti, Mäntsälä, Sulkava, Korpilahti and Ylämaa regions of Finland.

Heikki Palin - a representative of the company’s third generation - was appointed chief executive officer in 1989 and has led the business since then. As with previous generations, he gained experience in the stone industry for many years under the guidance of his father and uncle. A year of study exchange in the United States and two summers working at German stone companies led Heikki to strongly believe in the potential of Finnish stone in the international market. From the very beginning, he was particularly interested in quarrying and exporting Finnish granite.

Under his guidance, the company has become a leader in Finnish granite quarrying and is continually expanding its operations and output. In 2011, the Palin family decided to focus on granite quarrying and sold off the Loimaan Kivi Oy subsidiary, which was focused on stone processing.

In 2013, Norwegian quarrying company Lundhs AS became a partner in Palin Granit after purchasing 40 per cent of the shares and taking over most of the block sales through its worldwide sales organisation.

Heikki Palin told Aggregates Business that the company’s core operation is quarrying granite for the building, monument, and landscaping industries worldwide.

He said that Palin Granit produces a considerable amount of side stone that cannot be used in block production.

Palin said most of the company’s quarries are located either too far from major aggregate markets or situated near established aggregate companies with their own land and operations.

“However, we collaborate with Kiviwuorio Oy at our Aurora site in Mäntsälä, where they manufacture aggregates from our side stone,” Palin said.

“This qualifies as green aggregate, as it uses our by-products rather than virgin bedrock. The model aligns well with the carbon-neutrality goals many nearby cities of Finland aim to achieve by 2030.”

The company is also applying for a permit to receive non-toxic waste in the old quarry pit adjacent to the aggregates production area. Palin said this would streamline logistics by allowing the same trucks to handle both waste and aggregates transport.

He said the company’s long-standing objective has been to find productive uses for granite that cannot be processed into blocks for the stone industry.

At present, about 80 per cent of the granite extracted is stored for future use.

Granit Finland’s Aurora quarry is situated in the city of Mäntsälä, 70 kilometres north of Helsinki.

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“We are working hard to find new applications for our side stone. At the same time, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to obtain permits for new aggregate quarries, and the distances over which transportation remains economically feasible are steadily increasing,” he said.

Granite quarrying activity is subject to the Finnish Soil Materials Act, which regulates mining activities in Finland and requires an environmental permit.

The country is known for its strict environmental legislation, but Palin Granit complies with official requirements set by the Finnish national government and local environment regulators.

The company constantly monitors the development of environmental legislation in the country and any relevant changes.

The company said that effective internal control and continuous training of personnel ensure compliance with permit conditions and environmental guidelines in its everyday operations.

Palin Granit currently markets its products to construction and paving companies throughout Finland and exports part of its output.

In recent years it has completed serious improvements in its quarrying operations, which involved the purchases of new equipment and installation of new machinery. For example, it recently invested in a new saw for its Aurora quarry in Mäntsälä. Compared to chipping drilling, the saw gives granite blocks more precise and even edges, allowing for more detailed inspection of the color of the stones and possible defects.

“The future of granite production lies in sawing. All of our quarries already use wire sawing to remove large pieces,” Palin Granit technical manager Mikko Suninen said.

“This mobile finishing saw makes the production process more agile, reduces the generation of side stone and supports sustainable development.

“Currently, the saw can be moved between our quarries as needed, but we will consider similar investments for our other quarries as well.”

Palin Granit’s Parkkola quarry in Ylämaa is one of the largest quarries in the Nordic countries, and it produces Ylämaa Ruskeaa stone (Baltic Brown).

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Granite blocks at Aurora quarry The extraction area is 25 hectares, and stone has been quarried there since the early 1980s.

Palin is headquartered in Lappenranta, the regional capital of South Karelia, located in the south-eastern interior of the country in the Finnish Lakeland.

The company’s repair shop employs four technicians.

Major repairs to the extensive and robust machinery are carried out in Ylämaa, and technicians travel to different quarries with modern service trucks.

Several drilling units built on forestry machine platforms are in use at various locations across Finland.

Around 90 per cent of all production is exported. By far the largest target country is China, which in recent years has become one of the global centres of stone processing.

Chinese buyers come to Finland to reserve stones directly from quarries, liking to inspect their purchases in advance.

A Caterpillar wheeled loader in operation at the Aurora quarry

In recent years, the company has completed the renewal of its construction equipment fleet. In addition to drilling equipment, heavy-duty wheeled loaders are needed to handle the quarried stone blocks.

Palin’s loading equipment mainly consists of Caterpillar block handlers.

Additionally, the company has expanded its fleet of wheeled loaders with the purchase of several Cat 988H models.

Winter has its own challenges, and the traditional method of quarrying by drilling and blasting by K-pipes and detonation cord must be used. Wire sawing is possible down to -10 C under good conditions, but it is challenging. Water is heated so it does not freeze immediately, and the wire-sawing creates enough friction to warm the wire.

The minimum temperature quarries can operate at is -20 C. In a normal winter, between two and five days are lost due to cold temperatures.

In terms of production, the maximum size of a block shipped to China is 28,400 kilograms (7-8 m³), with larger ones not accepted in sea containers. However, the largest stones that can be lifted weigh about 40 tons and can even be loaded onto a flatbed truck. The production process is demanding for both equipment and workers.

The stone is removed by drilling horizontal holes of about 8m and vertical holes of about 6m, with a normal hole spacing of 200mm.

Blocks of 10 to 100m long, about 8m wide and 6-7m high are removed, from which “pavements” of about 3-10m wide and 6-7m high are then poured. This is then further broken down into different-sized pieces depending on the quality of the stone. The composition of the stone determines the size of the boulders that are created during the breaking process. From here, the usable boulders are transported to washing and then to storage. Palin said this is called “the Finnish quarrying method”. However, the recent trend is toward less drilling, and all other steps in quarrying are done by wire, except for the horizontal drilling of the primary piece. AB

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CRUSHING

Image: Kleemann

Kleemann received the the International Social Security Association Safety Award for 2026.

The shifts in crushing Safety innovation, major capital investment and expanded distribution networks within the crushing segment are reshaping the aggregates equipment landscape.

K

leemann, part of the Wirtgen Group, has been recognised for its efforts to improve operational safety with its “lock and turn quick access” system, following its recent award of the International Social Security Association Safety Award 2026.

The system, installed as standard on the Mobirex MR 100 NEO impact crusher, enables operators to open and close the crusher housing at the push of a button, crucially only after the rotor has come to a complete stop.

This directly addresses one of the most significant hazards in crushing operations: accessing the crushing chamber during or immediately after operation.

Traditionally, opening the crusher required manually loosening numerous bolts in difficult-to-access areas, increasing both workload and risk.

The automated system eliminates these tasks, reducing the risk of injury and improving efficiency.

Operators can now gain full visual access to the chamber in approximately 30 seconds, supporting faster inspections, maintenance and wear detection.

For quarry operators, the implications go beyond compliance.

Better ergonomics and less downtime can boost productivity in the quarrying sector, showing how safety-focused innovation adds value for quarrying businesses and operators alike.

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Investing for the future Metso is taking a long-term view with the second phase of its Lokomotion technology centre in Tampere, Finland.

The €60 million investment will fund construction of a new crusher factory, forming part of a broader €200 million-plus development designed to strengthen Metso’s global aggregates capabilities.

Once complete, the facility will function as a fully integrated hub where equipment and components for aggregates and sand production are designed, tested and manufactured.

“Metso has been a key part of Tampere’s industrial history for decades, and we

continue to develop our operations in the area with a long-term perspective. The Lokomotion technology center is the largest industrial investment in Tampere in this century and plays an important role in developing the regional industrial ecosystem,” Metso president of the aggregates business area Markku Simula said.

This second phase builds on earlier efforts that began in June 2024, which involved

The lock and turn quick access system is installed as standard on the Mobirex MR 100 NEO impact crusher.

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Image: Powerscreen

CRUSHING

establishing assembly, testing, and logistics facilities for mobile crushers. Production at the new crusher factory is projected to start in 2028, with the full technology centre expected to be completed by the early 2030s.

By consolidating research and development, production, and logistics at a single site, Metso aims to improve global delivery capabilities and maintain its competitive edge in a market where lead times and supply chain resilience are critical.

The project’s first phase is expected to be finalised by August 2027 with work on the interior building services and structural engineering underway.

Metso’s current Lokomo site for its aggregates business in Hatanpää, Tampere, will be gradually relocated to the new technology centre. Following the relocation, the company plans to divest the Hatanpää site and its buildings.

“Altogether, this is a significant investment of over €200m, which will improve our global delivery capability and support our position as a market leader in aggregates solutions,” Simula said.

Strengthening distribution Alongside investments in facilities and technology, OEMs are also reinforcing their market presence through strategic partnerships. Powerscreen’s appointment of Hesselberg as its authorised distributor for Norway is a case in point.

Hesselberg, a long-established Norwegian supplier, will provide the full range of Powerscreen equipment, as well as spare parts and maintenance services.

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The partnership leverages Hesselberg’s extensive engineering expertise and local market knowledge to support customers.

“We are delighted to be appointed as Powerscreen’s distributor for Norway.

Powerscreen’s reputation for innovation, quality and reliability aligns closely with the values that have guided Hesselberg for more than 125 years,” Hesselberg chief executive officer Andreas Corwin said.

“It is a natural addition to our existing portfolio, and we look forward to bringing their market-leading crushing, screening and conveying solutions to customers across Norway.”

For Powerscreen, the move strengthens its footprint in Scandinavia and brings it closer to end users. For customers, it improves access to equipment and aftersales service, both of which are increasingly important as fleets become more sophisticated and uptime expectations rise.

“We are pleased to welcome Hesselberg to the Powerscreen network. Powerscreen has an enviable range of reliable solutions for the crushing, screening and conveying industry, and combined with Hesselberg’s strong reputation across Norway, this will support a successful long-term relationship,” Powerscreen business development manager Gerry Mulgrew said.

Compact crushers evolving At the equipment level, RubbleCrusher’s launch of the J72 tracked jaw crusher highlights growing demand for compact, high-performance machines tailored to smaller-scale or urban applications.

Powerscreen has added to its dealer network.

Key features include an integrated vibrating grizzly feeder, which removes fines before they reach the crushing chamber, reducing wear and improving efficiency.

The machine also incorporates a “crush and creep” function, enabling it to move slowly while processing material and depositing output in organised rows, which reduces the need for additional handling equipment which saves on operational expenditure.

“This mid-size jaw crusher has the capability to crush very hard rock with ease, whilst still maintaining the classic tight footprint of our RubbleCrusher product line,” RubbleCrusher business line director Liam Holland said.

Maintenance has also been prioritised, with gull-wing access doors providing full exposure to the engine bay for faster servicing.

“The bespoke design of the gull-wing access panels to the service bay is a feature we think operators in particular will love,” Holland said.

Designed for moderately sized operations and hard rock processing, the J72 combines mobility with productivity, delivering up to 90 tonnes per hour in a compact footprint. Its 711mm x 406mm jaw chamber and ability to handle feed sizes up to approximately 558mm x 330mm provide flexibility across a range of applications.

“The J72 is a unique offering from RubbleCrusher, and one we are particularly excited about,” Holland said. AB © AGGREGATES BUSINESS July/August 2026

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ENGINES

Powering the future Engine manufacturers have made significant strides in 2026, with product developments set to support the quarrying and aggregates sector.

P

owertrain development is entering a new era as quarry operators and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) increasingly consider alternative fuels, electrification, and integrated power systems.

This transition is supporting engine and powertrain manufacturers in expanding the number of options available to off-highway sectors where diesel technology remains important, while investment in electric systems is becoming prevalent in the push towards lower-emission operations.

Recent announcements from Caterpillar, Volvo Penta, John Deere Power Systems and DEUTZ showcase how this shift in demand is unfolding in real time for both suppliers and customers.

Diesel drives the sector When it comes to high-power options, diesel technology remains integral to many off-highway sectors, in part due to its compatibility with existing OEM machinery, making internal combustion engines a favoured choice in many applications.

A case in point is John Deere Power Systems’ unveiling of an expansion of its next-generation engines with the release of the JD5 and JD8 industrial engines at ConExpo/Con-Agg 2026 in Las Vegas earlier this year.

“The expansion of our next generation engine lineup provides the high-horsepower foundation many customers rely on, while our simultaneous growth in battery and hybrid offerings creates a versatile, multiplepathway approach to power,” John Deere Power Systems senior vice president Pierre Guyot said.

The JD5 is a five-litre model that delivers between 93 and 200 kilowatts (kW) while the JD8 is a larger model at 7.5 litres and higher output, ranging between 187–290kW. Both models from John Deere meet US EPA Tier 4 and EU Stage V emissions standards and are compatible with renewable diesel fuel and biodiesel blends. While John Deere Power Systems has said that the timing and final specifications of both models are subject to change, the lead application for the JD8 is expected to launch in 2029, followed by the JD5.

Guyot said the two models are set to be ideal as power options for mid-range applications.

“John Deere Power Systems is strategically investing in the future of diesel technology to ensure it remains a viable, high-performance solution for the long term,” he said.

“This strategy allows OEMs to leverage advanced diesel technology alongside emerging power solutions, providing the flexibility to thrive in an evolving landscape without compromising performance.”

Electrification edges closer Electrification remains an area to watch in powertrain development, especially in the off-highway sector, where interest continues to build.

While diesel remains key, especially in high-output applications, OEMs and customers are increasingly collaborating on tailored electrification solutions, as evidenced by Caterpillar’s showcase at IFAT 2026 in Munich earlier this year.

The US-headquartered manufacturer debuted its prototype Battery Electric Power Unit (BEPU), which has been selected by Doppstadt to feature in its SWS 6 Spiral Shaft Separator.

The BEPU combines the battery, motor, inverter, onboard charger, cooling, and controls into one unit, fitting within the same space as a diesel engine.

Caterpillar designed it for OEMs to electrify machinery without redesigning platforms. Initially used in recycling, the concept may expand to other materialprocessing sectors. Instead of new machines, suppliers develop solutions that integrate into existing designs.

Doppstadt worked closely with Caterpillar and Zeppelin Power Systems to integrate the BEPU into its latest model, which it wanted to be a zero-emission solution and suitable for use in highly regulated environments.

Image: John Deere

The JD8 is expected to launch in the US during 2029.

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Caterpillar has unveiled its prototype Battery Electric Power Unit.

Image: Caterpillar

ENGINES

“Doppstadt have a long history of innovation and work to support their customers’ sustainability goals. This is an exciting trial of an electrified variant of their SWS 6 Spiral Shaft Separator, which delivers zero-exhaust emissions and low noise when in operation,” Caterpillar Industrial Power Systems Division customer solutions director Andy Curtis said.

“The Cat BEPU has enabled the rapid development of this option alongside their diesel variant, with minimal engineering effort.

“It’s intermittent duty cycle, suitability for indoor use, and access to low-power grid energy make the BEPU an ideal fit, with an on-board battery buffering, simplifying energy management for end users.”

able to create a total offer tailored to their requirements. This agreement is the result of great collaboration between Volvo Group business areas.”

Beyond the engine As the requirements of customers within the off-highway sector continue to shift, so too has the role of engine manufacturers.

Gone are the days when these companies solely made engines; now, the expectation is firmly on engine suppliers to work across the whole system with an integrated approach.

This is evidenced in DEUTZ’s showcase at ConExpo/Con-Agg 2026, where the company displayed several internal combustion engines, including the compact TCD 3.9, the larger TCD 12.8 and its 2.9-litre and 5.2-litre models.

“We firmly believe that the internal combustion engine is here to stay for some years yet, particularly when it comes to heavy-duty applications. When run on hydrogen or modern biofuels, combustion technology is already able to contribute to decarbonisation,” DEUTZ engines business unit chief executive officer Markus Villinger said.

Alongside conventional engines, DEUTZ showcased electric systems operating at 400 and 800 volts, its Xchange remanufacturing program and exhaust aftertreatment technologies developed with HJS Emission Technology.

“In order to cope with high-cost pressures and the growing demand for sustainable solutions, the construction sector needs drive systems and energy systems that offer the highest level of reliability and efficiency,” Villinger said.

“The right technology mix is crucial in this. Our customers benefit from our broad product portfolio, from alternative drives to energy and power generation systems, and from our global service network, which ensures rapid availability worldwide.” AB

Volvo Penta and Volvo Financial Services’ new partnership will support several off-highway sectors.

Image: Volvo Penta

Greater adoption While innovation has been the main focus in the powertrain and engine segment of the off-highway sector, finances are playing an increasingly prominent role in discussions.

Several off-highway sectors, including quarrying and aggregates, can operate on tight margins, making financing equipment through either capital or operational expenditure a worthy consideration.

Volvo Penta and Volvo Financial Services have formed a partnership to ease the transition to electric vehicles with the potential to support many off-highway sectors. As the first step of this partnership, the companies are supporting logistics operator DFDS as it replaces part of its diesel-powered terminal tractor fleet with electric alternatives.

“Leasing electric equipment is an attractive option for end customers while the technology evolves rapidly and the upfront investment remains higher than for traditional combustion engine equipment,” Volvo Penta Industrial area sales manager Jeroen Overvelde said.

“Now that we have developed this financial solution, we will bring this approach to other segments, markets, OEMs, and customers, supporting the transition to sustainable transport solutions and making electrification more accessible for customers.”

Six electric 4x4 roll-on/roll-off tractors are scheduled for delivery during the second quarter of 2026.

The vehicles were developed by Volvo Penta in collaboration with MOL, and prototypes have already been tested in daily operations at a DFDS terminal in Belgium.

There has been evidence that the model could eventually influence the wider off-highway market, where capital investment remains a key consideration.

“From the very beginning of the sales process with DFDS in the Netherlands, VFS worked closely together with Volvo Penta to understand how we could support DFDS’ ambition for electric terminal tractors,” VFS business development manager Anders Carlander said.

“By aligning early with both Volvo Penta and MOL and engaging in joint business discussions with DFDS, we were

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Image: Caterpillar

Carmeuse Drummond Island quarry in Drummond, Michigan.

As autonomous hauling equipment transitions from trials to full deployment, quarrying businesses are increasing investments in technologies that ensure safer, more efficient, and continuous operations.

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he Carmeuse Drummond Island quarry in Drummond, Michigan, will host a highly anticipated deployment of autonomous haulage technology.

It represents the latest juncture in the evolution of autonomous haulage as the technology moves from being a thought bubble to reality in the quarrying and aggregates sector.

Carmeuse has signed an agreement with Caterpillar, under which Caterpillar will deliver an autonomous technology solution for the quarry’s fleet of 777 trucks, with support from Fabick Cat. The Cat MineStar Command for hauling will be integrated across the fleet alongside complementary MineStar capabilities for loaders and staff-supported equipment.

“We are proud to partner with Caterpillar on this journey into autonomous haulage,” Carmeuse vice president for engineering Todd Sheffer said.

“Caterpillar’s proven technology and expertise, combined with Carmeuse’s operational excellence, create a powerful platform to elevate us to new production horizons.

“This deployment reflects Carmeuse’s commitment to innovation and utilising technology to future-proof our operations.”

The deployment will build on Caterpillar’s extensive experience in successfully deploying automated hauling solutions across the quarrying and mining sector worldwide over recent years.

“Our autonomous solutions are tackling the quarry industry’s most pressing challenges by raising the bar on safety while enabling consistent, efficient production,” Caterpillar senior vice president of resource industries sales, services and technology John Shanahan said.

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“Our advanced technology will help take Carmeuse’s operations to the next level with greater safety, performance and positioning for the future.”

It comes as quarry and aggregates operations continually invest in automated hauling solutions, with several major producers currently undertaking trials or fullscale deployments across their operations.

Strategic Revenue Insights estimated that the autonomous off-highway truck market in the global quarrying sector was worth $US2.93 billion and projected to reach $US9.35 billion by 2030 with a compound annual growth rate of 13.8 per cent.

Of this, the US and China have been the major adopters of autonomous equipment solutions, with other markets are expected to follow suit.

Caterpillar has partnered with Carmeuse.

Image: Caterpillar

Driving the future

“Emerging markets will play a crucial role in growth due to rising industrialisation and infrastructure development. Companies that invest in innovation and workforce training will gain a competitive advantage,” Strategic Revenue Insights said.

“The market is expected to experience strong growth, supported by automation trends, technological innovation, and the global demand for efficient and sustainable mining and construction solutions.”

Pronto.Ai, which specialises in autonomous haulage solutions, confirmed in April 2026 that it would expand its partnership with Heidelberg Materials and deploy autonomous haulage solutions at two additional sites in North America.

The plans expand on the strong partnership between the two organisations, highlighted by a successful pilot and full implementation at Heidelberg Materials’ Lake Bridgeport quarry in Texas.

The upcoming phase will involve the company’s facility in Mitchell, Indiana, and the Servtex quarry in Texas, and will deploy Pronto’s automated hauling solution (AHS), compatible with original equipment manufacturers’ (OEM) equipment.

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Image: Heidelberg Materials

Heidelberg Materials is progressing its roll-out of autonomous solutions.

Image: Applied Intuition

“By rapidly rolling this technology out to Mitchell and Servtex, we are demonstrating that our AHS can adapt to entirely different geological environments and operational workflows in a fraction of the time it would take for legacy AHS,” Atoms head of mining and transport Anthony Levandowski said.

According to Pronto.Ai, over an eightmonth period, its AHS system autonomously hauled two million tonnes of limestone.

The OEM-agnostic solution was integrated into a mixed fleet including Caterpillar 775G and Komatsu HD605 series trucks.

“Our joint success at Lake Bridgeport proved that autonomy is not just a theoretical concept, but an immediate, commercial reality capable of moving millions of tons of rock efficiently and safely,” Levandowski said.

Heidelberg Materials has seemingly been impressed by the performance of AHS solutions across its global network as it invests in an expanded roll-out in 2026.

The company announced in April 2026 that it would work with its technology partners to roll out AHS solutions across the North American, Australian, and European markets, with six sites and two vehicle types participating in the initiative.

The North American deployment will involve the aforementioned Indiana and Texas sites, while Australia’s involvement will include quarries in New South Wales and Western Australia.

In the European market, the producer has indicated it will premiere an autonomous wheeled loader at a sand and gravel pit in Northern Germany.

The company plans to deploy 30 autonomous vehicles overall as part of what it said was an “expansion phase” throughout 2026. This will be accelerated in the coming years, with Heidelberg Materials estimating it will introduce around 100 autonomous vehicles by 2028.

“Advancing automation and artificial intelligence applications is a key pillar of our technical excellence agenda as we look to constantly raise the bar for our processes and equipment,” Heidelberg Materials chief technical officer Axel Conrads said.

“With a strong global autonomous deployment team working closely with best-in-class technology partners, we are now focused on scaling the technology in a disciplined, results-driven way.”

Autonomous haulage systems leverage advanced sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence (AI) to operate haul trucks and other equipment in quarrying operations and other heavy industries, including mining sites. Applied Intuition, one of Heidelberg Materials’ technology partners, shared additional details about the AHS deployment at an Australian quarry site.

As a collaborator on the deployment, Applied Intuition will supply its Self-Driving System (SDS) for Construction. The SDS will be integrated into Heidelberg Materials’ fleet at the quarry, with the potential to roll it out across the company’s broader Australian network if successful.

Applied Intuition will support Heidelberg Materials to implement the technology into an Australian quarry site as a trial.

The technology specialist said this system was suited to smaller operations, including those running just two 40-tonne trucks, making it compatible with many quarries.

“No two quarry or construction sites operate the same way, with different layouts, constraints and economics,” Applied Intuition co-founder and chief executive officer Qasar Younis said.

“We've built our platform to adapt to that reality. This partnership shows we can take the same core system used in large mining operations and apply it to smaller, infrastructure-constrained quarry sites, scaling it across hundreds of unique locations.”

The partnership expands Applied Intuition’s presence in Australia, following the signing of a “strategic technology collaboration” with Komatsu Australia in 2025.

The two companies are developing a “unified software-defined vehicle (SDV) and autonomy platform” that would be integrated into Komatsu’s next generation of mining and off-highway equipment.

The jointly developed platform could deliver flexible autonomous capabilities, ranging from advanced operator assists to full-scale autonomous systems.

It could also see machine learning and AI embedded in a software-defined vehicle architecture, with native integration of data management, digital security, and connected support.

Komatsu president of the mining business division Peter Salditt said the partnership underlined how autonomous solutions would define the future of heavy industries, including quarrying and mining.

“Komatsu is committed to creating value together with our customers, and this collaboration represents a step change in how we bring innovative, high-performance technology to their operations,” he said.

Younis said this flexibility was important as the sectors face labour shortages, challenging site conditions and rising demand.

“In a world where autonomy is becoming the norm, our goal is to ensure our customers don’t just keep up, they lead,” he said.

“The mining industry is one of the most regulated in the world, and as the bar keeps rising around emissions and safety and geopolitics, Applied Intuition and Komatsu plan to build the next generation of mining products and redefine modern software product development.” AB © AGGREGATES BUSINESS July/August 2026

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LOADING

Heritage Quarry Group (North) Ltd’s new Hitachi ZX890L-7 BER crawler excavator.

Investment signals new era The quarrying sector’s next phase is being defined by increased investment in modern, technologically driven loading equipment.

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igger machines, smarter technology and wide-ranging collaborations are all on the agenda as industrial sectors step into a new chapter across quarrying, aggregates and demolition.

Loading equipment with advanced technology is being used as a key driver to meet rising productivity.

Expansion supported Growth plans have prompted Heritage Quarry Group (North) to invest in one of the largest machines in its fleet, a 90-tonne Hitachi ZX890LCR-7 BER excavator.

The investment follows the opening of Greenfield Quarry near Skillington and supports the company’s expanding operations.

Heritage Quarry Group supplies natural British stone products and also operates Rollright Quarry, Daglingworth Quarry and Great Tew Quarry.

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Heritage Quarry Group (North) supervisor Steve Johnson said the Hitachi ZX890LCR-7 BER’s performance had exceeded his expectations since it has been used in the quarry, particularly with its breakout force and fuel economy.

“It feels you could stop the world turning when it’s digging,” he said.

The machine supplied is a ZX890LCR-7 BER specification, fitted with a 7.1m BER boom and a 2.95m BER dipper.

It features a powerful 382-kilowatt Isuzu engine, a 5m³ bucket capacity, and highpressure HIOS V hydraulic systems.

The 90-tonne crawler excavator is designed specifically for the quarrying and heavy construction sectors with its robust design and reinforced structures.

“Hitachi Construction Machinery UK are extremely excited to develop this partnership with Heritage Quarry Group (North) Ltd and looks forward to supporting the business as it continues to grow,” the company said.

A UK debut SMT GB has delivered the UK’s first Volvo EC500HR high-reach excavator to Collins Demolition, adding a machine capable of reaching up to 32 metres and handling heavier attachments for demanding projects.

Collins Demolition chose the EC500HR high-reach excavator to give the company more flexibility on large-scale projects.

“The stability of the machine at height is one of its greatest advantages,” Collins Demolition director Scott Craddock said.

“It gives operators the confidence to work safely within the machine’s operating envelope and, when paired with a 2.8-tonne tool, achieves the ideal balance of speed and pressure, delivering plenty of power at the tool tip to meet the demands of the job.”

The EC500HR incorporates Volvo’s Demolition Assist and Smart View systems, technologies designed to improve machine control and visibility. The machine is also backed by a 5000-hour warranty and aftersales support over the first three years.

Features that enhance visibility and assist operators are rapidly moving from premium options to standard expectations, particularly

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Image: Epiroc

LOADING

on specialist machines where safety and precision are paramount. SMT GB has supported Collins Demolition with aftersales services, including operator training to ensure a smooth transition between machines and to maintain productivity.

The two organisations have a wellentrenched partnership that spans several years and previous models. The arrival of the EC500HR continues a longstanding partnership between Collins Demolition and Volvo Construction Equipment.

“We first invested in an EC380HR in 2014 to support our demolition work,” Craddock said.

“It performed exceptionally well, so in 2019 we replaced it with a new EC380HR, which again did not disappoint.

“This year, the new EC500HR was the obvious choice to meet increasing project demands and the need for greater reach and flexibility.”

Forging a global alliance While contractors invest in new machinery, manufacturers are pursuing partnerships to broaden their offerings.

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Image: SMT

Image: Hitachi Construction Machinery UK

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Epiroc and SANY Group have signed a global strategic partnership agreement to expand cooperation across mining and infrastructure markets.

The companies plan to combine Epiroc’s hydraulic breakers, specialty attachments and ground-engaging tools with SANY’s excavators and wheeled loaders to strengthen their product portfolios.

There is the potential to also expand the partnership to encompass electrification solutions in the future.

“SANY’s innovations in electrification, equipment, and smart manufacturing are truly impressive,” Epiroc tools and attachment business area president José Manuel Sánchez said.

“We look forward to combining our respective technologies and resources to deliver more efficient and sustainable solutions for customers worldwide, creating new value and energy resilience for the industry.”

1. Epiroc’s José Manuel Sánchez in the middle, next to SANY’s Lihua Tang at the signing ceremony.

2. Collins Demolition has been impressed by the EC500HR.

Epiroc's electrified mining equipment and charging solutions could complement SANY’s expertise in electric machines, microgrids and green energy systems, creating opportunities to develop integrated solutions for customers.

“Epiroc is a global leader in mining equipment technology, while SANY has significant advantages in new energy construction machinery and smart manufacturing,” SANY group director Lihua Tang said.

“This strategic partnership represents a major step forward in our globalisation strategy and will accelerate the transformation … towards low-carbon and intelligent operations.” AB © AGGREGATES BUSINESS July/August 2026

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BUSINESS

On the move Key stakeholders from across the global quarrying and aggregates sector have bolstered their executive teams with appointments.

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he quarrying industry is seeing a fresh round of executive appointments and leadership changes across manufacturers, producers and industry associations.

Aggregates Business looks at the latest appointments from across the global aggregates and quarrying sector.

Alwyn Bryan has been appointed chief financial officer of CRH.

Image: Holcim UK

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Robert Lindop has been appointed

by Holcim UK as its national housing manager.

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Image: CRH

Finance focus Global building materials company CRH has appointed Aylwyn Bryan as its chief financial officer, who will take over from Nancy Buese.

Bryan has over 25 years of financial leadership experience, including the past 14 years with CRH. Most recently, he served as chief financial officer (CFO) of CRH’s Americas division and previously as head of group finance and group tax director.

“I look forward to continuing to work with the leadership team to extend CRH’s legacy of strong financial discipline and enviable track record of maximising value for our shareholders,” Bryan said.

As chief financial officer, Bryan will continue to play a critical role in advancing CRH’s strategy and operational discipline, and in driving long-term quality growth and value creation for CRH’s shareholders.

“We are pleased to announce Aylwyn’s appointment as CFO,” CRH chief executive officer Jim Mintern said. “He has a deep understanding of CRH’s business, has strong financial expertise and a proven track record of delivery for shareholders.

“This experience will be invaluable to CRH as we continue to execute and evolve our strategy and drive consistent longterm growth.

“I would like to thank Nancy for her contributions to CRH and I wish her success.”

“Thanks to Martin and the team’s dedication, Holcim has a clear and exciting vision for its block business,” Lindop said.

“I am looking forward to helping define its presence within the housebuilder market.

“By giving customers, a single point of contact and combining expert technical

Building up Robert Lindop has been appointed by Holcim UK as national housing manager, supporting its concrete block product portfolio.

With more than three decades of experience, Lindop will lead the delivery and promotion of Holcim’s concrete block offering to the housebuilding markets in England and Wales.

Lindop takes over from Martin Fulwell, who has retired.

Fulwell worked as the sales director for building products since it acquired Besblock in 2024 and had more than four decades of industry experience.

“By giving customers, a single point of contact and combining expert technical support, strong service, and highperforming products, we can build lasting partnerships and help housebuilders deliver homes with confidence.” www.AggBusiness.com

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support, strong service, and highperforming products, we can build lasting partnerships and help housebuilders deliver homes with confidence.”

Lindop will be tasked with introducing Holcim UK’s high-specification products to the housebuilding market, especially across the South West and North West regions.

Holcim UK’s concrete block offering has significantly expanded in recent years.

Following the acquisition of Besblock, Holcim has rolled out Besblock’s products through its facilities in Callow and Carnforth, after they were initially offered only through Telford.

“At a time when housebuilders are seeking clarity, reliability in the supply chain, and technical expertise, Robert’s appointment ensures our customers have a dedicated specialist who understands both the commercial pressures and practical challenges they face,” Holcim UK director of building products Ben Warren said.

“His addition marks an important step in giving our blocks business a stronger and more defined identity in the housebuilder market.”

A new advocate The Construction Equipment Association (CEA) has secured David Waine in a voluntary role covering international trade, supply chains and UK manufacturing.

Waine will take on the role of trade advocate for CEA alongside his current role as managing director of Con Mech Engineers.

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Image: ACA

American ambition The American Cement Association (ACA) has confirmed Diane Tomb will take over as the association’s next president and chief executive officer.

Tomb joins the ACA from ACG Advocacy and has previous experience as the chief executive officer of the American Land Title Association, as president of the National Rental Home Council, and president and chief executive officer of the National Association of Women Business Owners.

Overall, Tomb has more than 25 years of experience in executive leadership and policy.

She has served as the assistant secretary of public affairs at the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, the director of public affairs at the US Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration, and in the White House.

“America’s cement industry is a foundational pillar of our national infrastructure, our manufacturing base, and our national security,” Tomb said.

“As innovation and technology reshape how we build from data centres to nextgeneration infrastructure, domestic cement production is central to America’s economic competitiveness. I am honoured to lead ACA at such a consequential moment and could not be more excited to get to work.”

Diane Tomb has joined the ACA as its new president and chief executive officer.

“America’s cement industry is a foundational pillar of our national infrastructure, our manufacturing base, and our national security."

The CEA said Waine’s expertise will help strengthen its trade-related work, ensuring the views and practical experiences of UK manufacturers continue to be heard and reflected.

“David brings exactly the kind of practical industry knowledge that adds real value to our work,” CEA chief executive officer Viki Bell said.

“His experience in UK manufacturing, international trade and supply chains gives him a clear understanding of the pressures and opportunities facing our members, and we are very grateful for his support.

“As the CEA’s work continues to grow and the team remains incredibly busy across a wide range of member activity, it is fantastic to welcome David Waine as trade advocate.”

Experienced executive Luke Curran has been added to the sales team at Adcrete, bringing more than a decade of professional experience from Ireland and Australia to his new role and organisation.

“Working in Australia provided me with a whole new level of experience,” Curran said.

“From working in extreme temperatures laying asphalt, managing mobile plant operations in the outback and building concrete and admixture businesses throughout Adelaide, Darwin and Perth.

“This experience will certainly help me in shaping further growth for Adcrete within the Irish market, and while the temperatures are different in Ireland and Australia, wherever you are in the world, concrete is very similar.”

The appointment comes at a busy time for Adcrete, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2026, and coincides with its parent company, Christeyns, making a major investment in the business to expand its operations.

The recent investment improved storage capacity and added a customer consultation room to Adcrete’s Lisburn headquarters.

“The milestone of reaching our first decade in business has already been marked with team growth, business growth and investment,” Adcrete director Gus Vaughan said.

“We’re incredibly excited to continue shaping our future and supporting our hugely valued customers with our broad product range and inhouse expertise.” AB © AGGREGATES BUSINESS July/August 2026

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Image: THANANIT / stock.adobe.com

EVENTS | FOR A FULL LIST OF EVENTS VISIT WWW.AGGBUSINESS.COM/DIARY

Be immersed in the industry The quarrying and aggregates sector is set to enjoy some of its biggest trade shows throughout 2026.

SEPTEMBER 2026

MARCH 2027

APRIL 2027

September 2 –5, 2026 SteinExpo 2026 Organiser: GEOPLAN GMBH Tel: +49 7229 606-30

March 15 –17, 2027 Agg-1 2027 Organiser: National Stone Sand & Gravel Association Tel: +1 (414) 272-0943

April 21–24, 2027 Intermat 2027 Organiser: Comexposium in partnership with CISMA and SEIMAT Tel: +33 1 76 77 11 11

March 15 –17, 2027 World of Asphalt 2027 Organiser: National Asphalt Association, Association of Equipment Manufacturers, National Stone Sand & Gravel Association Tel: +1 (414) 272-0943

MARCH 2029

OCTOBER 2026 October 6 –8, 2026 IQA National Conference Organiser: Institute of Quarrying Australia Tel: +61 (02) 9484 0577

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March 13 –17, 2029 ConExpo/Con-Agg 2029 Organiser: Association of Equipment Manufacturers Show Owners: NRMCA and NSSGA Tel: Call: +1 (414) 272-0943

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SEPTEMBER 20–23

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