PCE June-July 2024

NEW NAME FOR RENOWNED EXCAVATOR AND UNDERCARRIAGE DEALER.

Golda Burrows General Sales Manager

Emma Cowan Editor

Martin Elliman General Manager

Joel Byers Production Manager

Rachel Clarke Accounts Administration

Helen Beggs Chief Operating Officer

Plant & Civil Engineer is Published by:

4 SM (NI) Ltd, The Old Coach House, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough BT26 6AE

CONTACT Golda: 07724 192032 or Martin: 07985 887171

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Email: martin@4squaremedia.net

COPYRIGHT NOTICE:

I’m writing my comment on the day the Belfast Telegraph published the 2024 Top 100 most profitable companies. I was interested to discover that 19 companies were from the sectors Plant and Civil Engineer reports on (almost one-fifth of the list).

Terex GB (Dungannon and Omagh) ranked third on the Top 100 list, outperformed only by our two pharmaceutical giants, Randox and Almac. Other ‘plant and civil’ companies included McCloskey Engineering, Dungiven (24), Toubkal/Strickland, Coalisland (51), Whitemountain Quarries (Breedon Ireland) (60) Edge Innovate NI, Dungannon (64) and CDE Global, Cookstown (87). Tyrone appears to breed world-leading plant and equipment experts!

This edition has a lot inside, including crushing and screening, the McSharry Track rebrand, 50 years of Creagh Concrete and much more.

If you’re going to Hillhead, look out for Golda and Martin from the PCE team. It would be a great chance to catch up and you are guaranteed to be treated to one of Marty’s one-liners!

Looking forward, we’re planning features on materials handling, insurance, ADTs and metal recycling in our August-September edition. On that note, both Clearway Metal Recycling and Regen Waste Holding were in the Top 100. Our features are a great way to showcase your business and expertise, so get in touch with us.

You can keep up to date every day with all the industry news 24/7 at www.plantandcivilengineer.com. Of course, you should also be getting our weekly newsletter which is emailed out every Tuesday; if not, do subscribe on our website so you don’t miss out. It’s free!

Emma Cowan Editor

Mobile: 07921 787686

Email: pceeditor@4squaremedia.net

Plant & Civil Engineer

4SM (NI) Ltd is part of the North West News Group

COVER: NIALL, MICHAEL AND FINTAN McS HARRY.

New self-cleaning Reflux Bucket for excavators from Tyrone inventor

This June sees the launch of a very practical innovation for excavators from Northern Ireland company DUFab Equipment Ltd. The new product is a ‘Reflux Bucket’ attachment, which is patented and going into production for sale.

The Reflux Bucket, designed to make digger work faster and more efficiently, is the brainchild of John McElduff, owner of DUFab and a man well known for his practical innovations.

The Reflux Bucket is a self-cleaning bucket, with a clear hitching design that enables the bucket to self-clean with every lift. “I’ve seen buckets jam and get clogged many times and this design will do away with the problem, saving time, speeding productivity and generating fuel savings,” explains John. “It’s a self-cleaning plate that attaches to the front linkage pin, with a hydraulic piston attached to the back pin. The result is an excavator

bucket that cleans itself hydraulically with every dig-and-deposit action.”

DUFab currently has one Reflux Bucker on demonstration and the company is open to sales and re-orders.

For more information, contact John McElduff of DUFab Equipment on M: 07834 083303 or E: info@dufab-equipment.com. Visit https://www.dufab-equipment.com/ or view on Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/profile.php?id=61552628610550

New 2-Tonne Takeuchi Tool-Carrier

The latest addition to the 3-Series range is a new 2-tonne TB320 mini excavator.

The new TB320 is a mini excavator/tool-carrier designed for multi-attachment use that offers an exciting development in the mini excavator domain. It comes with proportional control on auxiliary 1 & 2, 3rd auxiliary pre-piped for quick hitch and an optional 4th aux as a factory fitted option. With excellent 40l/min flow rate this new 2-tonne is adaptable for a variety of hydraulic attachments including: mulchers, flails, augers, post knockers and tilt-rotators, typically used by landscape contractors and groundworkers. With increased engine power and excellent breakout force (17.0kN/ 9.1kN), this 2-tonne

mini delivers power performance when required. The long arm, heavy counterweight and longer track frame add to stability when digging deep (2370mm).

The TB320 has new 3-series styling both inside and out, including LED lighting, Bluetooth, DAB, and spacious operator

station with excellent footwell visibility for trench work.

With a compact design and dimensions, it’s safe to trailer tow and easy to transport to and from site. The expanding track frame from 980-1370mm gets access in the most confined spaces. With matching pin and link dimensions to the TB216 the new TB320 is a compatible addition to the fleet.

Holly Cooke Marketing Manager “The new 2-tonne TB320 combines both a mini and multi attachment tool carrier. The increased flow rate gives it greater power and productivity on site.

The 3-Series line-up now extends right across the range from 2 to 10 tonne. Get an update at Hillhead Stand S2.”

Tax Credit Specialist Momentum Group invests in Irish market

Bangor-based specialist tax consul ting firm Momentum has announced a £500,000 expansion into the Irish market. Momentum’s specialist service helps companies to maximise R&D tax relief credit, capital allowances and land remediation relief

The consultancy already has an established client base in Ireland and the investment in Dublin city centre office space will allow it to maximise service to Irish companies.

The latest Irish Revenue Commissioners statistics published in 2021, reveal that Irish companies have claimed over €1.29bn in R&D Tax Relief.

The lion’s share of the R&D spend (77%) was from large enterprises (>250 employees), while SMEs accounted for 23% of the spending.

Founded in 2009, the Momentum Group has a strong track record of working with businesses across multiple sectors in Ireland, Northern Ireland and other parts of the UK and managing director,

Tom Verner, believes the time is right to strengthen links and expand further in the Irish market.

Expertise To Help Smes Release Revenue

“We already work with a range of Irish businesses, so it is right that we establish a real presence in the Republic of Ireland,” Tome Verner said.

“Ireland’s SMEs need support to help the country become a

global economic powerhouse in technology and this investment, over three years, is evidence of our commitment to providing that expert support.to help these businesses save time and money by identifying, analysing and optimising R&D opportunities.

“Often, SMEs are deterred by the complexity of putting a claim together and knowing what does or doesn’t qualify for relief.

Momentum a proven track record in generating significant financial benefit for businesses through R&D relief had has the expertise and knowledge to maximise benefits for companies.”

Tom continued: “The Government’s Impact 2030 strategy seeks to put the full spectrum of research, development and innovation at the heart of addressing some of the country’s biggest challenges. To support this strategy, the Irish Government has made some headline changes to the R&D Tax Relief scheme such as increasing the rate to 30%.

“Despite the incentives, it’s clear SMEs are still not availing of tax credits in sufficient numbers, while the larger companies, who have the resources to devote to making claims for their qualifying R&D expenditure. If the Irish Government is to realise its ambition to make Ireland an R&D powerhouse, more needs to be done to encourage smaller businesses to invest in innovation and to claim for the work they are doing.”

IPS Ireland New Sole Irish Distributor for Xenith Height Aresta Safety Products

Established in 2013, IPS Ireland has evolved into Ireland’s largest supplier of access platform parts, service, crane pads and workshop consumables and supplies. The company has recently partnered up with UK-based Xenith Heights as an exclusive distributer of their full range of Aresta safety products. The aim of the new deal will be to increase its market penetration and customer satisfaction across the island of Ireland. Xenith Heights is a UK based industrial firm that focuses on the design, manufacturing, and supply of fall arrest equipment and safety harness for work-at-height tasks including scaffolding and renovation projects. Aresta Safety provides technical solutions to protect workers from falls and other risks associated with heights, ensuring their health and safety while on the job.

According to Ian McIntyre, Sales at Xenith Height, “This new partnership with IPS Ireland is an exciting prospect as they have excellent service capability, which really fits with our aim to increase our offering to Ireland’s customers, with a

local approach and premium service. Customers in Ireland will be able to benefit from improved product availability, as well as faster delivery times.”

Commenting on their recent partnership, Gary Power, parts manager at IPS Ireland said, “We are excited toa be moving forward with this new endeavour as this will enhance the high-quality products we provide and give customers access to additional products and services. We are confident that our partnership with Xenith Heights will provide our customers with outstanding quality safety products and exceptional customer service, achieving strong supply chains. Our ambition is to drive industry growth by delivering reliable safety products and providing after-sales services to existing and new customers.”

Momentum Group directors pictured in Dublin. From left; operations director Steve Morley, business development director Simon Huntley, financial director Jayne McKee and managing director Tom Vernor.

Trevor Lambe and Gary Power, IPS Ireland, Ian McIntyre (centre) Xenith Heights.

Each solution we supply from Volvo Construction Equipment, including the ground-breaking Electric models; Volvo Penta engines; Sennebogen material handlers; and Kohler engines comes with a nationwide team of qualified service engineers, a next-day parts delivery system and an all-island branch network.

MINORE™ Introduces Transformative Mineral Solutions To Protect Resources

Specialist in sustainable mineral solutions, MINORE™ has extended its portfolio, advancing a suite of innovations to help organisations protect valuable resources, aid biodiversity, and green construction. Operating in the new, and rapidly growing, sustainable material management sector, MINORE™ now has three key strands to its business. Expertise incorporates mining existing mineral deposits using sustainable techniques for use in cement and brick and green landscapes; repurposing discarded minerals into new product formulations; and developing bespoke biodiversity solutions. Founded in 2012, its roots trace back to the 1950s as a mining and quarrying family business. Established on an old, disused Victorian brickworks and ash pit in West Yorkshire, this provides a unique environment for MINORE™ to produce bespoke mineral and soil formulations. Its processes involve using existing mineral deposits and carefully selected, discarded materials from waste, construction and demolition projects, and collaborating with product formulators. Ultimately, it

will restore its brownfield site to natural habitat and open space, whilst providing support for biodiversity net gain projects.

Biodiversity

solutions

Over recent years, MINORE™ has undertaken extensive research and development into manufacturing and blending minerals for a variety of applications. Its bespoke solutions are designed to improve soil preservation, water management solutions, carbon

capture, and support biodiversity projects, for regenerative agriculture, horticulture, and green construction sectors amongst others. MINORE’s approach is guided by new strategies and legislation around preserving the natural environment and resources, including Biodiversity Net Gain Regulations introduced this year. Additionally, it offers opportunities for local developers to purchase biodiversity net gain habitat units within the Wakefield and South Elmsall area, as part of its brownfield restoration project. This will transform an area identified under the Biodiversity Metric as poor condition medium distinctiveness to good condition, turning an old landfill site into an ecosystem where wildflowers and insects will thrive.

Mineral repurposing

MINORE™ mine, recycle and manufacture sustainable mineral solutions for green construction products, industrial and consumer markets. Its extensive portfolio includes recycled soils, stony cohesive fill material, pipe bedding, and primary clay and ash products.

One year on, Metso UK distributor, McHale plant sales reports

‘better than expected’ beginning

One year to the month since their appointment as Metso Lokotrack distributors in the UK took effect, McHale Plant Sales will exhibit at the ScotPlant and Hillhead to meet as many customers as possible with a simple message of ‘thanks’ for the welcome their arrival on the UK scene it has received.

Over the 12 months since April 2023, the company has established a headquarters depot at Tamworth and a Scottish base on the east side of Edinburgh.

According to their Business Development Director, Darragh O’Driscoll “mindful that we began with a blank canvas, we are exceedingly happy with the picture that has emerged.”

Recruitment, which is ongoing, has seen key appointments made in sales management

and equipment sales, parts, stores and distribution, as well as in administration and customer communications, in-house machine maintenance and repair and mobile field service engineering roles.

“On the personnel side, we have an expanding and committed team, all totally focused on building the business and delivering the best service we can for customers” O’Driscoll said.

“In the important areas of parts availability and supply, our depots are well stocked and supported by an efficient UK-wide distribution structure. So too in tech-support where our team of mobile service engineers continues to expand,” he added.

New project aims to revolutionise tunnel infrastructure installation with robotic AI

A consortium of mechanical and civil engineering, and robotic automation industry leaders, including Tunnel Engineering Services (UK) Ltd (TES), i3D robotics (i3D), the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), Costain, and VVB Engineering, has developed the first robotic and AI solution set to revolutionise the installation of mechanical and civil services in tunnels. Traditionally, installing these services in tunnels is hazardous, labour-intensive and timeconsuming. The prototype Automated Tunnel Robotic Installation System (ATRIS) can autonomously select brackets, locate where they need to be mounted along a tunnel wall, and install them. In doing so, the automated solution can improve on-site health and safety by reducing the risks associated with manual labour at the tunnel work face, for example, working at height in confined spaces, and hand-arm vibration experienced by workers during installation. Once fully developed, the final system can be deployed in tunnel construction for a variety of sectors including transport, water and energy. It is expected to increase productivity by 40% due to faster installation, reduce installation costs for new mechanical and electrical (M&E) systems by 30%, and cut construction plant movements by 40% to decrease embodied carbon.

The 22-month project, partly funded by Innovate UK’s Smart grant, was led by TES, which developed the initial concept in partnership with the consortium. Leveraging its expertise in robotics and automation, MTC spearheaded the design and manufacture of the robot’s end effectors. i3D developed crucial visualisation software for precise navigation, whilst Costain and VVB provided industry knowledge and expertise in tunnelling and fit-out requirements.

Alan Worsley, Design and Project Manager at Tunnel Engineering Services (UK) Ltd said: “TES has over many years designed and manufactured Mechanised Tunnelling Machines and special purpose equipment for the construction industry. Over this time, innovation has been at the forefront of our business, and the need for automation

in traditionally manual M&E fit-out techniques has led us to develop ATRIS and make it commercially viable for the market. We believe the system can offer a safer, more costeffective and sustainable solution for future infrastructure projects.”

Steve Nesbitt, Chief Technologist for the Built Environment at MTC, said: “Like many sectors, construction has faced labour challenges over the past few years which has driven greater interest in using robots, beyond manufacturing and logistics, to address these issues. By contributing our expertise to this project, we are paving the way for construction companies to adopt technology for greater control and structuring of on-site works, making infrastructure delivery safer, more productive, and more sustainable.”

Dr Jon Storey, Lead Engineer at i3D, said: “Developing an automated system to install infrastructure in tunnels has been a long-standing ambition for the construction sector. ATRIS has moved us significantly closer to that goal. The use of stereo vision with machine learning and robotics to place bolts precisely on a curved surface is an unprecedented achievement, with potential applications beyond the construction sector, such as nuclear decommissioning and defence.”

Lee Bateson, Mechanical and Engineering Manager and Robotics Lead at Costain, said: “Teaching the robots to learn seemingly simple tasks – such as how to avoid cross-threading the screws that go into the sockets – has been hugely fulfilling, thanks to the consortium’s collaborative spirit. Whether it’s carbon reduction, increasing productivity or improving workforce health and safety, this is transformative technology that will have enormous benefits for the customers that we build tunnels for.”

Nicholas Beedle, Group Operations Director at VVB Engineering, said: “Tunnel works historically are expensive to build and maintain, and in the higher risk bracket for safety during construction and operation. It is important that ongoing improvements are made to address both of these issues. The development of the robotic AI solution is a step towards solving both of these industry challenges.”

Hamm Compactors awarded with a German Design Award Special Mention

The HC 110(i) – HC 250(i) compactors from Hamm receive the accolade of “Special Mention”, awarded to outstanding examples of design.

The 11 – 25 t models impressed the jury of experts with a thoughtfully designed platform concept, quiet and eco-friendly operation, innovative cab design and a high level of user-friendliness.

The internationally recognised German Design Award is one of the most coveted prizes on the design scene. It recognises major design trends and

honours exceptional product design, communication design and architecture. The jury is made up of experts recognised in the field of design, from twelve different nations and a variety of sectors, who

set very high standards when it comes to selecting the award winners.

Dr Axel Römer, Head of Development and Construction at Hamm AG, expressed his delight after the award was announced: “We are hugely proud of this award, because it’s a recognition of our commitment to exceptional design and highlights the innovative prowess of our products.” With this recent accolade, the compaction specialists now boast a collection of more than 40 design awards.

GRAB EVERY OPPORTUNITY

NOTICE: ALWAYS FOLLOW WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED BY THE MANUFACTURER.

JCB LAUNCHES BIGGEST X SERIES CRAWLER EXCAVATOR WITH 370X

JCB unveiled its biggest and most powerful model yet – the new 370X –at a special press event held at the JCB world headquarters in March.

The heavy-duty earthmover was heralded as bringing industry-leading levels of productivity, durability, and reliability to the 35-40 tonne sector.

Plant and Civil Engineer’s Martin Elliman attended the event and was blown away by the sheer size of the JCB 370X. “There were other new products launching at the event, but the JCB370X dominated the show and we were delighted to get a special report by Dan Gilkes outlining his first test drive of the machine,” said Martin. Other products unveiled at the prestigious event included new electric models in the 3 tonne site dumper range, new additions to the ride on tandem roller range, EU Stage V compliant versions of its large platform skid steers, of key improvements to the JCB backhoe loader range, the launch of two 2.5-tonne mini excavators, the 25Z-1 is a zero tailswing model and the 26C-1, the JCB Raptora brand-new tilt rotator designed specifically for the JCB Hydradig, together with an expansion of the Hydradig range of wheeled tool carriers. Last but not least, was the announcement of a new partnership between. JCB and Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon, to offer factory-fitted 2D and 3D-ready semi-automated excavator control solutions known as INTELLIGRADE. Now back to the biggest beast in the new product line-up, the JCB 370X

KEY FEATURES OF THE JCB 370X:

• A machine designed from the ground up with proven X-Series DNA built in

• Ability to move 4.5 tonnes more material per litre of fuel than competitive models

• Stage V/T4F 240kW (322hp) diesel engine delivering 14% more power

• New JCB UX user interface, with 10” colour touchscreen display and controls

• Increased hydraulic pressures boost performance in hard digging

• Extended service intervals for improved total cost of ownership (TCO)

• Uprated undercarriage and heavy counterweight deliver maximum stability

MORE OF EVERYTHING

Paul Swallow, Business Head – Excavators, said: “With more power, increased strength and durability, reduced fuel consumption and lower ownership costs, the JCB 370X is a major step forward for customers in the 35-40 tonne class. With fantastic operator comfort and control, the 370X delivers a heavy-duty excavator solution for markets around the world.”

EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMANCE

The JCB 370X is powered by the latest Cummins L9 diesel engine, which is certified as EU Stage V and EPA Tier 4 Final compliant. This 8.9-litre, six-cylinder, engine boasts a 14% power increase over the outgoing JS370, with 240kW (322hp) available at just 1,700rpm. The engine delivers this maximum power within a reduced operating rev range, to increase fuel economy and reduce overall noise levels. A Tier 2 common-rail engine is available for non-legislative territories.

The latest generation Kawasaki tandem hydraulic pump operates with an increased 350 bar pressure, rising to 380 bar during power boost cycles. Combined with a latest generation valve block and hydraulically-operated cooling fan with reversing function, this contributes to classleading efficiency. The 370X is capable of moving up to 4.5-tonnes more material

per litre of fuel and up to 86 tonnes per hour more than competitors in testing. All major structures and components have been designed with additional performance and productivity in mind. A heavier counterweight contributes to

added stability, while larger structures cope with the additional forces.

Increased service pipework diameters and raised hydraulic pressures result in more power at the dig end, which has been redesigned with cast boom foot and hydraulic ram pivot points for additional strength and longevity.

The 370X is supplied with a 6.45m monoboom, with a choice of 2.63m, 3.23m and 4.03m dippers. Optional heavy-duty dippers have additional crush bars and reinforcement to cope with arduous applications.

Bucket pin diameter has been increased and the machine can be fitted with a new JCB dual pin quickhitch, to pick up 90mm or 100mm attachments. There are also new 2.1m3 XHD and 2.34m3 XHD buckets available, plus JCB will offer a new HM330T hydraulic breaker specifically for the 370X.

OPERATOR COMFORT

As with all X-Series machines, the 370X benefits from the JCB Command Plus ROPS cab. As well as being one of the largest excavator cabs on the market, with 2.86m3 of volume, the Command Plus cab benefits from a heated air suspension seat and a reduced 69dB in-cab noise level.

The cab is further improved with a new 10” touchscreen monitor with a new user interface called JCB UX, while the switch panel incorporates more customisable hot keys, allowing further personalisation for the operator. Climate control, a radio with DAB option, keyless start and twin cameras for

added visibility are all standard equipment.

The JCB UX interface has up to 25 user profiles, which can all be customised with the ability for operators to set the joystick configuration to meet their individual requirements. Mobile phone connectivity has been improved with phonebook integration via the monitor. The machine is exceptionally easy to use and help guides are available within the monitor, along with ‘how to’ videos, covering all of the features of the JCB UX system.

TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP

The 370X delivers real-time monitoring of all fluid levels on the in-cab display The machine also benefits from extended service intervals, with hydraulic intervals doubled to 2,000 hours. Engine coolant service in

now required at 3,000 hours, while the air filter element intervals are extended up to 2,000 hours. The machine boasts three work modes to optimise digging, lifting or economy. Auto-stop and Auto-Idle engine functions are also standard, to reduce fuel consumption during idling, further boosting TCO.

The 370X is available with a range of options, to tailor the machine to an individual customer’s requirements. These include auxiliary hydraulic circuits with up to 15 attachment settings and a premium heated and cooled operator’s seat. LED lights are now standard, with options available to increase to up to 14 LED work lights. The machine can also be offered with the JCB 2D and 3D-ready INTELLIGRADE system, providing machine control solutions to enhance productivity, accuracy and safety.

A bird’s eye 360° camera system, integrated within the 10” display, can also be offered, along with high visibility, all-round handrails.

The 370X follows the styling and design first seen on smaller X-Series JCB excavators, with robust doubleskinned steel service doors and tube-in-tube bolt-on handrails.

www.dennisons.co.uk/jcb

Evoquip appoints new business development manager

EvoQuip, a leading global supplier of compact crushing and screening equipment, has announced the appointment of Christian Ebner to the position of Business Development Manager for Latin America. Christian will be responsible for sales and distribution growth of the brand in South America and Mexico.

Christian brings a wealth of expertise to his new position, having graduated from the prestigious University Austral de Chile with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He then spent 20 years in Sales and Marketing roles, achieving remarkable success. Christian has also forged strong ties within the international

community, having worked closely with the British embassy in recent years.

Speaking about the appointment, Barry O’Hare, Business Line Director of EvoQuip said: “We are delighted to welcome Christian to the team. With his diverse experience and keen understanding of market dynamics he is an invaluable asset to helping us achieve EvoQuip’s expansion strategies. Latin America is a key market for us, and Christian’s deep understanding of the region, coupled with his passion for the brand, will be instrumental in driving our business forward.”

Christian will be based out of Chile and can be contacted at christian.ebner@terex.com

McHale Plant Sales appoints company manager UK

Metso distributor, McHale Plant Sales has taken a further step in building its UK management team with the appointment of James Cliffe to head its operations in Tamworth and Edinburgh. Hugely qualified in the field of aggregates production, quarrying and concrete products manufacturing, Cliffe joins McHale Plant Sales in the role of Company Manager UK.

Before joining McHale, he held managerial appointments within CRH and its Roadstone subsidiary, including that of National Mobile

Crushing Division manager and Huntstown Quarry Location Manager – one of the two largest and busiest quarries in the Roadstone network which, combined, delivered a total extraction volume of 500,000 tonnes of material per month.

Resident in Dublin, Cliffe is a native of Dungarvan in Co. Waterford. A MSc, BSc and BEng graduate of Cork and Waterford Institutes of Technology and the University of Derby. His qualifications include a Masters in Construction Project Management, an Honours in

New MD for Takeuchi UK

Construction Management & Engineering, and a Batchelors Degree in Civil Engineering. In addition to CRH and Roadstone management development programmes, he has completed industryspecific studies in Asphalt and Paving, Concrete, Quarry Management, and Minerals Extractives.

Within McHale Plant Sales UK, his priorities will include sales and management of the UK sales team, the on-going task of team building, facilities and services development at Tamworth and

Takeuchi UK have recently appointed Daisuke Yanagisawa, better known as Yana as its new Managing Director, effective from 1st June 2024.

Yana has spent the last 12 months as assistant MD, getting to know the industry in the UK. Yana will be leading the team of 25 at Takeuchi’s UK head office in Rochdale and Thatcham depot.

Daisuke Yanagisawa Managing Director says: “There’s a huge opportunity to build on the success Takeuchi UK has achieved so far, and I’m really looking forward to working with the team to grow the business significantly.

“My main focus is to take Takeuchi UK to the next level by strengthening the team. I strongly believe having the right people at the right places is the core for our growth.”

Takeuchi UK benefits from an extensive and established dealer network of 30 depots supporting customers nationwide. Takeuchi will continue to support customers by developing world-class products and listening to owners and operators.

James Cliffe.

Edinburgh, and the maintenance of close communications with Metso users, key accounts, and UK crushing sector operators generally

Customer-led innovation has always been central to the Takeuchi philosophy and developments in the New 3-Series range and New Electric models are an exciting next chapter for Takeuchi in the UK.

Takeuchi remains a major excavator supplier to the UK’s construction and plant hire industry. The excavator product range has expanded year on year, now with over 22 models between 1 to 15-tonnes.

Daisuke Yanagisawa continues: “With the recent opening of the new Aoki factory in Japan and increased productivity, our machine availability is going to be its bestever. Over the next few years, we aim to grow the Takeuchi customer base nationally. Our Dealer know-how and expertise will be critical to our ongoing success.”

The Takeuchi brand continues to be popular with contractors, plant hire and owneroperators with many investment advantages. This year Takeuchi UK will reach its 50,000th machine sale, a major milestone for the Takeuchi UK team and dealer network.

Christian Ebner.

Daisuke Yanagisawa YANA Takeuchi MD.

ATTACHMENT

READY

MORE FLOW - READY TO GO

The New TAKEUCHI 3-SERIES TB320 2-tonne excavator, available in cab and canopy configurations. Designed to accommodate a wide range of attachments with 3 auxiliary ports as standard, 4th line optional. Ideal for landscapers and owner operators with increased power, hydraulic flow and proportional controls.

HIGH-SPEC CONFIGURATION

EXPANDING TRACK FRAME

PROPORTIONAL CONTROLS

TRUSTED RELIABILITY MADE IN JAPAN

The NEW TB320 offers maximum excavating performance in a road towable weight class.

DAWSONGROUP CLEANS UP WITH 75 IVECO EUROCARGO ROADSWEEPERS

Business to Business and asset funding specialist Dawsongroup plc has taken delivery of 75 IVECO Eurocargo 16-tonne municipality vehicles (ML160E22K), complete with Bucher Municipal sweeper bodies to add to Europe’s largest short and long-term sweeper rental fleet.

Roadsweepers might not cover huge mileage, but they need to be durable as their mission involves heavy equipment and a demanding stop/start environment.

The Eurocargo is an ideal platform for this challenging mission courtesy of its tough 3350mm purpose-built sweeper chassis which delivers excellent manoeuvrability in busy urban environments.

Dorking-based Bucher Municipal supplied and fitted the truck-mounted bodies taking full advantage of the 16-tonne GVW to create a body that is highly

functional but very robust. As a result, this vehicle’s payload is circa 6,600kg.

Each vehicle is left-hand drive with Dawsongroup fitting FORS standard safety equipment to enable each one to work in urban areas in complete safet. All vehicles are also equipped with Chapter 8 rear signage as well as 360-degree cameras to boost visibility and meet strict DSV standards.

Highly efficient 220hp Tector 7 sixcylinder diesel engines coupled to a 12-speed automated gearbox provide plentiful power and torque for this heavyduty workload while also meeting the latest Euro VI emission requirements.

Dawsongroup are no strangers to Eurocargo roadsweepers with previous vehicles recently being de-fleeted after up to four years of operation. Glen Carruthers, Dawsongroup Managing Director said:

“We have run IVECO product before so we know they are very strong and practical for these tough operating conditions. We have already seen some vehicles go out on longer-term hire with councils.

Each of these Eurocargo roadsweepers has been supplied on an IVECO Planned Repair and Maintenance service contract, helping Dawsongroup ensure maintenance costs are more predictable.

More bang less bucks

The Liebherr-XPower range of wheel loaders returns outstanding fuel efficiency

Please contact Liebherr-Ireland for specification and availability.

Liebherr-Ireland

FROM THE DESK OF: GORDON BEST,

REGIONAL DIRECTOR, MPANI

BUCKING THE TREND IN A WORLD OF UNCERTAINTY

Despite all the clatter and chaos as a fallout from geo-political uncertainty and the calling of a general election for once Northern Ireland seems to be bucking the trend. The most recent Ulster Bank PMI indicated that Business activity continues to rise amid further marked expansion of new orders and that confidence, particularly within the local construction sector the highest it has been for 7 years. Construction firms reported their highest rates of new orders in three-and-a-half years. The news that the Finance Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA recently signed an Interim Fiscal Framework on behalf of the Executive securing a commitment from Treasury to review how the Executive is funded going forward is very welcome It provides assurances the NI Executive can plan on the assumption we will be funded at or above the 124% level of relative need in future financial years. Basically that means that for every £100 per head of public spend in England, Northern Ireland will receive £124 per head. This means a further £24 million from the Spring Budget will now be available for allocation as part of June monitoring. Any future Barnett in 2024/25 will be at this increased level meaning additional funding for public services here. Nevertheless, the budgetary position facing the Executive remains incredibly challenging

On a national level the recent MPA Economic briefing reported that UK economic conditions improved at the start of the year. GDP grew by 0.6% on a quarterly basis in 2024Q1, exiting a shallow recession at the end of 2023. A return to growth is encouraging, but it is worth noting that the economy has flatlined for much of the past two years. April marked the lowest rate of inflation for almost three years and should continue to support a gradual recovery in real incomes. However, GDP growth of around 0.5% overall in 2024 reflects the impact of past increases to interest rates, which will more broadly keep a lid on confidence to spend and invest. In terms of the national construction picture with the wider economy showing

some signs of resilience at the start of 2024, construction output faltered. Weatherrelated impacts were partly blamed for the setback, yet the underlying cause of the deterioration reflects the deeper challenges facing the sector, particularly in areas of new work over the past six months.

It remains a challenging environment for housing. An improvement in confidence at the start of the year will be difficult to sustain until the Bank of England begins to loosen monetary policy.

HEALTH AND SAFETY INSPECTIONS UNDERWAY

On the health and safety front, our Health and Safety Committee continue to work hard on behalf of MPANI members. HSENI inspectors will visit businesses to ensure that machinery is adequately guarded to prevent access to dangerous parts. The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) has announced an inspection initiative across Northern Ireland quarries, concrete and waste premises, which will take place from May until September 2024. HSENI inspectors will be visiting these businesses to:

• ensure machinery is adequately guarded to prevent access to dangerous parts

• ensure operators have adequate procedures in place for safe isolation and lock-out of equipment

• review the measures in place so that both routine and non-routine maintenance can be carried out safely HSENI Inspectors will provide information and advice during the inspection initiative. Where significant risks are found, Inspectors may take enforcement action to achieve compliance with health and safety legislation and to ensure that the risks are properly managed.

Find out more about the machinery guarding, safe isolation and maintenance initiative

STAY SAFE, STAY OUT

As you may be aware this is the time of year when we see an increase in potential of trespassing on members sites and a greater risk of young people entering disused quarries and swimming in extremely cold water.

This year again MPANI and HSENI have circulated a joint “Stay Safe Stay Out” letter to all school principals across Northern Ireland asking them to share this important safety message with their teachers, pupils and parents. As an indicator of the success of this we have received letters from

Gordon Best, MPANI

parents and calls from teachers praising this initiative and asking for more information and a number of school presentations.

NI DE-CARBONISATION PLAN

As mentioned before MPANI are signed up partners in the Innovate UK funded NI De-carbonisation Plan. We are currently holding workshops in all 11 Council areas for industry to learn more about how this Innovate UK-funded industrial de-carbonisation initiative can help them.

Led by Invest NI, the project is a consortium of stakeholders including Manufacturing NI, Mineral Products Association, Ulster University, Queens and all 11 councils.

The IDNI Portal is now up and running and can be viewed at IDNI | Home There have now been 8 Council presentations with the next one at Newry and Morne Council on the 19th June.

ADJUSTMENT TO THE BITUMEN INDEX

Following over 18 months of negotiations with BCIS and other stakeholders as a result of a significant divergence between Heavy Fuel Oil and Bitumen prices that meant that the monthly R10/15 index used in an number of DFI maintenance contracts was not reflective of the monthly movement of bitumen prices and required an agreed corrective by BCIS who manage and produce the indices on behalf of Government.

DfI have now put in place a process to agree an adjustment to the R10/15 Bitumen Index affecting a number of contract types including asphalt resurfacing. Papers have gone to senior DfI officials and the Minister, not seeking permission, but informing them of this adjustment. It is planned to have the whole process, and financial rebates completed by the end of June.

MINISTERIAL MEETING

On Wednesday 1st May, I was part of an NI Business Group delegation who met with Finance Minister, Caoimhe Archibald. The group highlighted concerns about the pressures we face and discussed contributions to the recent rate relief consultation.

We made strong arguments regarding the need to retain industrial derating as a business and investment incentive, the need for difficult decisions around revenue raising, the need to prioritise investment in our water and roads infrastructure and the need to include reform of planning in any new programme for government.

CONCRETE SUSTAINABILITY AND INNOVATION CENTRE

I am delighted to inform you that MPANI are partnering with the Mid South West Council Consortium, Invest NI, Department for the Economy and South West College on the Development of a Concrete Sustainability and Innovation Centre. Concrete producers in Northern Ireland have been very successful in developing their businesses, not only do they play a key role in supporting the construction and agricultural sectors but they also export a significant amount of product to markets in ROI, GB, and in some cases further afield. There already exists a strong set of businesses which could be described as having a cluster effect in terms of their development. This development has largely been industry-led through several entrepreneurs with only piecemeal support from the government. The sector now faces the usual challenges of running a competitive business, staying at the leading edge of developments in technology to gain efficiency and in particular to deal with all of the challenges of sustainability, recruitment and retention of people, diversity and specifically decarbonisation.

South West College (SWC), is considering the establishment of a Concrete Sustainability and Innovation Centre (CSIC), to support the Concrete sector and its supply chain implement sustainable practices and decarbonise.

In this context, SWC has identified a possible source of funding through the Mid-South West Growth Deal, one of Northern Ireland’s four City and Growth Deals committed by the NI

Executive and UK Government. The proposed facility aligns with a number of their criteria in terms of Regional Economic Development, Innovation, Decarbonisation, and Levelling up.

In outline CSIC would support the further advancement of the Concrete Industry, specifically focusing on identifying decarbonisation challenges and providing solutions for this sector.

The thinking at this stage is that the facilities/ technologies, resource and knowledge available at CSIC would assist industry to explore, test and implement various solutions to decarbonisation whilst also developing the associated skills/ knowledge transfer to drive innovation and sustainability. .

It would be built around industry-led, open innovation and collaborative research, with the benefit of access to a range of knowledge partners and stakeholders, all geared to harnessing collective learning to accelerate adoption of sustainable practices. Watch this space for future developments!!!

SEE YOU AT THE FORUM

We look forward to seeing as many members as possible at our September Local Member Forum on Thursday the 19th September in the Elk Toomebridge and the 5th December in the Glenavon House Hotel Cookstown.

If you’re interested in becoming a full or affiliate member of MPANI and get access to up to date Industry news and guidance don’t hesitate to give me a call on 07876136929. It would be great to have you on board. Take care and stay safe!!

NEW BOBCAT S630 AND S650 SKID-STEER LOADERS FOR EUROPE

Bobcat has launched new Stage V versions of the company’s M-Series S630 and S650 Skid-Steer Loaders, designed for use in higher regulated markets in Europe. Customers now have a wider selection in this size of machine, with a choice between the new M-Series S630/S650 models and the more advanced R-Series S66/S76 machines. This will further strengthen Bobcat’s leadership position in this size category in the European market.

The new S630 radius lift path loader combines excellent manoeuvrability in tight areas with the reach and visibility needed for applications such as dumping materials over walls, backfilling or loading flatbed trucks.

The S630 has a rated operating capacity of 1012 kg and a tipping load of 2023 kg. The S650 model features vertical lift path boom arms particularly suited to lift and carry as well as material-handling applications.

The S650 has a rated operating capacity of 1227 kg and a tipping load of 2455 kg. Both models continue to offer excellent versatility through compatibility with a very wide range of Bobcat attachments.

SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE

Delivering superior performance while adhering to strict Stage V emission regulations, both the S630 and S650 are powered by the well proven Bobcat D24 engine, featuring a Bosch Fuel Injection System. With the engine situated transversally in the S630/S650, these models have maintained their compact size, allowing the

machines to operate and turn in the same small tight spaces.

New engine technology results in lower fuel consumption for the same type of work. The first engine oil service interval has also been extended to 500 hours and improved fuel filtration means less frequent filter replacements.

The S630/S650 are also equipped with Versatile Duty Tyres as standard, that have a bi-directional design for most common mixed surfaces, which again reduces costs by improving tyre lifetime significantly.

OPERATOR COMFORT FEATURES

Bobcat offers several popular comfort features for the S630/S650 including:

• Heat or Air Conditioning option (HVAC) – keeps operators more comfortable all through the year and in all locations.

• Cloth Suspension Seat – improves the operator’s comfort all year round.

• Auto Ride Control (option) – improves the operator’s comfort and machine stability.

IN-CAB CONTROLS

The base S630/S650 models are equipped with a new Deluxe control panel offering a selection of most of the languages in Europe. Every machine is also equipped with Bobcat Telematics solutions.

The Deluxe panel reduces the risk of misuse, thanks to the keyless start function. Options such as High Flow or

2-Speed can also be locked, if necessary, and protected by passwords.

New after-treatment technology (DPF) works automatically without any interaction during normal operation. If necessary, this technology can be easily managed from the menu in the Deluxe panel, which enables the operator to monitor the machine and exhaust aftertreatment. The new automatic multi-step engine low-idle sequence in cold conditions further improves engine performance.

On machines equipped with Selectable Joystick Controls (SJC), the auto-idle feature reduces the engine speed to low idle when the joysticks are in neutral position and have not been used for about five seconds. Auto-idle allows for quieter overall operation and reduced fuel consumption.

As well as the Deluxe Panel, Bobcat Telematics and Versatile Duty Tyres, the standard features on the S630/S650 include Hand and Foot Controls, a Deluxe Cab with Side Windows and a Suspension Seat. Options include a Cloth Suspension Seat; Selectable Joystick Controls; a Deluxe Cab with Heating or HVAC; Heavy Duty Offset and Severe Duty Tyres; High Flow with Attachment Control; 2-Speed and Power Bob-tach.

The Standard Warranty has been extended to two years (2000 hours) with Protection Plus providing up to five years of coverage.

Ahead of work getting underway on the Irish Government’s proposed EUR450million upgrade of the N5 carriageway that links Dublin through the midlands to the popular tourist regions dotted along the north-west coast, lead contractor on the project, Mayo-based civil works contractor, Wills Bros of Foxford has augmented its already extensive equipment portfolio with investment in an additional number of Komatsu-branded machines, all for use on the project.

Irish civils contractor, Wills Bros gears up for major road development with ‘significant’ Komatsu purchase

SLOW SPEED SHREDDER

Described by their supplier, Komatsu distributor in Ireland, McHale Plant Sales’ chairman, Michael McHale as one of the “most significant investments” in plant and equipment made in Ireland in recent times.

Ready for Action: Pictured on site at the €450 million upgrade to the Roscommon section of the main N5 carriageway on which Wills Bros are lead contractor is a Komatsu HM4005 articulated dump truck, one of a number supplied to them by Komatsu distributor, McHale Plant Sales.

for Transport, Eamonn Ryan TD as replacement for ‘one of the most treacherous sections of primary road in Ireland’.

TROMMEL SCREENS

“When completed, it will improve road user safety, enhance regional accessibility, and better the connectivity between Dublin and the northern and western regions of the country,” Minister Ryan added.

MEDIUM SPEED SHREDDER

“Their purchase is one that underlines the status of Wills Bros as one of the finest and bestresourced civil works contractors

in Ireland, whose work is also well known through leading projects completed by them elsewhere in Europe and the UK,” McHale said.

WASTE HANDLERS

Komatsu equipment included in this latest EURO multi-million fleet enlargement are three D85PX-18 dozers, a HB365LC Hybrid excavator, two wide-track,

CBI GRINDERS

CBI GRINDERS

TROMMEL SCREENS

low ground pressure PC170 LGP excavators, and a double-digit mix of HM300-5 and HM400-5 ADTs, all of which will integrate alongside other Komatsu units within the Willis Bros fleet.

RECYCLING SCREENS

RECYCLING SCREENS

Scheduled to take up to four years to complete, the project is described by Ireland’s Minister

TWIN SHAFT SHREDDER

Welcomed by politicians and local tourist and commercial interests, the project involves the construction of approximately 34kms of new single-carriageway road that will extend from the existing N5 Ballaghaderreen Bypass to the townland of Scramoge in Co. Roscommon, bypassing the towns and villages of Frenchpark, Bellanagare, Tulsk and Strokestown. Where the route meets access points to these locations, provision will be made for pedestrian and cyclist facilities.

SHREDDING | SCREENING | HANDLING | COMPOSTING | CONVEYING

SHREDDING | SCREENING | HANDLING | COMPOSTING | CONVEYING

10 Coolmaghry Road, Donaghmore, Dungannon BT70 3 HJ

10 Coolmaghry Road, Donaghmore, Dungannon BT70 3 HJ

info@qrs.ie

info@qrs.ie

+442887767120

+442887767120

McSHARRY TRACK COMES OF AGE IN CORPORATE REBRAND

The trading name used for McSharry Bros’ track and undercarriage division has now become the company’s official name. McSharry TRACK Limited is now the trading name for the entire business.

Michael McSharry has been in business for over five decades, starting in 1970 selling agricultural tractors and incorporating as McSharry Bros (Manufacturing) Ltd in 1992. At the start of 2024, the company became McSharry TRACK. With three company directors, Michael McSharry and his sons, Niall and Fintan managing the business, which employs twenty people in all, Niall McSharry told Plant and Civil Engineer that the time was right for a rebrand.

The impressive forecourt at McSharry TRACK, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon.

“McSharry TRACK has been a trading name for our undercarriage business since 2015.” Niall said. “At the time, it was useful to differentiate the track side from the plant sales side of our business.

“The decision to change our trading name to McSharry TRACK unifies the company with a strong, modern brand and consolidates the entire business under one name. It structures the ownership of the company more clearly and strengthens our presence in the market.

MCSHARRY TRACK AND BERCO SINCE 1980

Italian company Berco has a long history with humble beginnings but, over a hundred years on, it is a global leader in manufacturing undercarriage components for the most challenging applications.

The Berco brand is recognised as world-leading in its quality, innovation and commitment to providing superior parts to the mining, construction and utility sectors. As a result

they have been the preferred supplier of all the OEMs.

McSharry TRACK have been the exclusive Berco dealer for all of Ireland since 1980. That makes them the longest appointed and most experienced dealer of undercarriage parts in Ireland by some distance. It is quite a distinction and service to the industry.

Berco’s range of products encompasses everything for the undercarriage systems of all crawler machines. This includes track chains, sprockets, rollers, track shoes, idlers and tension devices.

For McSharry TRACK, the relationship with Berco has been fruitful for both partners.

“There is a constant and ongoing demand for crawler undercarriage parts, which generates steady business. That is what attracted us to Berco in 1980 and it’s the same story today.” said Niall. “All the track parts do wear down, it’s

a simple matter of steel-on-steel, so there comes a time when they have to be replaced. This brings customers to us and it has always been of great benefit to us to offer the Berco range of parts, considering the high quality of their parts and also the support we get from Berco.”

Berco have also completed a soft rebranding in recent years and they are more focused than ever on the aftermarket.

“We now have a new range of products from Berco that are made in China that are extremely competitive on price and yet we have seen performance as good as the made in Italy parts. It is bringing more and more customers to Berco so it is good for business.” adds Niall.

The benefit for Berco in the dealer relationship is the service levels that McSharry TRACK delivers to its customers.

“Servicing and repairing a tracked machine’s undercarriage is a big job.”, explained Niall. “It requires all the old parts to be stripped out and replaced with new parts. The job is always done better by experienced fitters in a workshop environment. We are committed to doing the best possible job and our workshop facilitates that. We offer a very competitive service to supply and fit parts.”

FULL RANGE OF UNDERCARRIAGE PARTS

McSharry TRACK carries the entire range of Berco products in addition to its own McTRACK brand of undercarriage parts that includes rubber tracks. “For our McTRACK range, we started buying from manufacturers in Korea and China in 2002. All of our parts are OEM quality. By combining the Berco and

Marty Donnelly organising deliveries from the roller warehouse.

Damien McGeeney and Paul Kelly, Undercarriage Team putting new Berco track chains back on this EC140EL.

NEW NAME FOR RENOWNED EXCAVATOR AND UNDERCARRIAGE DEALER.

COVER: NIALL, MICHAEL AND FINTAN MCSHARRY.

McTRACK range, it means we can offer undercarriage parts from stock for every make and model of tracked machine.

WAREHOUSE, WORKSHOPS & MODERN OFFICES

“We have the largest warehouse of undercarriage parts in Ireland and we are the only dealer to also offer workshop services. So we don’t just offer parts over the counter, we also fit them and that is a big point of difference. You learn a lot, fitting parts for as long as we have done.” adds Niall. The premises at McSharry TRACK is recognised as the most impressive in the industry. It benefits from great space with a wide forecourt to present the Kobelco range and in addition to their warehouses for parts, they also have dedicated workshops for their undercarriage and Kobelco divisions. They added new offices in recent years that are finished to a very high standard. These details are all in keeping with how Michael McSharry has run his business from the start.

MCSHARRY TRACK AND KOBELCO SINCE 2014

In 2014, McSharry TRACK was awarded the exclusive, all-Ireland dealership for the

Kobelco Construction Machinery.

A Japanese company, with its manufacturing base in Hiroshima and global sales operations, Kobelco has a long heritage spanning more than 80 years. Its parent company, Kobe Steel Ltd., built Japan’s first construction machine in 1930. The 50K electric mining shovel paved the way for all future Kobelco construction machinery and set the tone for decades of pioneering technological developments.

The Kobelco range is exclusively tracked crawler excavators and cranes, so it was a natural fit for McSharry TRACK, who had also been dealing in plant sales since their very beginning.

Fintan McSharry is head of Kobelco sales and he explained that the relationship with Kobelco

has been successful. “Kobelco is extremely happy with our performance, and we are very happy with the machines. The dealership came to us after Kobelco’s partnership with New Holland ended. Essentially, we have relaunched the Kobelco brand in Ireland. We’ve grown sales year on year and gained a strong market share in the medium to large excavator categories in particular. We’ve sold well in excess of 1,000 excavators to date. Kobelco manufactures excellent machines and our customers have been impressed.”

Their customer base covers leading construction, quarry, civil engineering, utility and forestry companies. It includes Ward & Burke, Deane Public

Works, OPW, Bord Na Mona and Waterways Ireland to name a few.

“We have kept old Kobelco customers with the brand and also introduced lots of new customers to Kobelco. The fact we get repeat business speaks for itself. We make a big effort to look after the customer.” adds Fintan. This is something that we know Michael McSharry has taught his two sons very well. They also have a great team and attribute their success to the dedication and work of all their employees.

Making McSharry Track a onestop-shop for excavators, in addition to the attachment supplied by Kobelco, the Roscommon company carries the Okada range of attachments. Like Kobelco, Okada is a Japanese manufacturer of various attachments, including hydraulic breakers, demolition pulverisers, demolition crushers/ shear, recycling attachments and couplers. “Carrying the Okada range of attachments means that, whatever our customers want to use their excavators for, we have the right equipment for their job,” said Fintan.

WATCH THIS SPACE

The new McSharry TRACK brand identity will be launched soon on the company’s updated and upgraded website. www.mcsharrytrack.com

Sean Doyle, Undercarriage Sales along with Eoin Gallagher and Peter Mulholland, Kobelco Parts & Service.

Full Berco undercarriage fitted to CAT 336FL.

Dromad Hire Awarded IPAF Rental Plus Accreditation

International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) Rental

Plus is a certification that ensures that Dromad Hire meets and maintains the highest standards of training, employee development, customer service, equipment rental and back-up services. It is the powered access industry’s guarantee of a high-quality rental company.

The independently Irishowned company specialises in access platform hire, general plant and tool rental, and has a new professional cleaning division, along with approved ex-rental sales. The company provides a nationwide service across the island of Ireland.

IPAF promotes the safe and effective use of powered access equipment worldwide in the widest sense – through providing technical advice

and information; through influencing and interpreting legislation and standards; and through safety initiatives and training programmes.

According to Dromad Hire’s Chief Financial Officer Marcos Simpson, “I’d like to thank IPAF for awarding us with the prestigious IPAF Rental+

certificate. Dromad puts the quality of our internal procedures at the heart of the service we provide, especially when it comes to safety. The accreditation is recognition of the effort that the team has made to ensure that our customers and contractors are assured that when they hire from us they are guaranteed excellence through the rental process, from beginning to end.”

The entire Dromad team extended thanks to IPAF for its continued commitment to providing education, training, research and promoting safe practice when working at height. A special mention is due to to Damien O’Connor and Martin Wraith of IPAF for their endless support and advice in making the process of becoming IPAF Rental+ accredited easier.

POWER MEETS PRECISION

Discover innovation at its finest with the first Tiltrotator manufacturer in the UK & Ireland. Our Tiltrotators enhance your equipment’s versatility, enabling you to take on a wider range of tasks with ease. They offer unparalleled precision and control, significantly increasing efficiency and productivity on the job site. With a Versaffix Tiltrotator, you can work more safely and effectively in tight spaces, educing the need for manual labour. Our products are compatible with 3-18 tonne machines, with an exciting 22 tonne Tiltrotator coming soon.

Our Tiltrotators: VX6 3-6 TONNE VX11 7-11 TONNE VX18 11-18 TONNE VX22 19-22 TONNE (COMING SOON)

Pictured Right to Left: Clodagh McCrory (Dromad Hire), Damien O’Connor (IPAF), Sandra Bowman (Dromad Hire).

Karen McShane

President, The Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation

CLIMATE CHANGE MEAN WE MUST CHANGE OUR LIVES

Last Autumn the impact of the Climate Crisis fully hit Northern Ireland with an estimated 1 in 300-year storm event causing flooding in our town centres in both Newry and Downpatrick. The impact ensured our town centre roads were not passable, and many businesses had to close for up to six months to conduct repairs. This month, I was asked to provide an opinion to BBC’s Spotlight NI on the impact of the climate crisis and offer a personal view on what the issues and solutions may be. just a few suggestions.

Many NI Councils have now adopted Sustainable Urban Drainage systems (SUDS) into their Local Plans and planning guidelines which is welcome but Northern Ireland is well behind other regions in the UK and it will take many years for these to have a significant impact upon the current flooding problem. The NI Assembly need to reinforce their commitment to these sustainable solutions for all new developments in Northern Ireland. Any solution will require funding and I am consciously aware that the Department for Infrastructure has a finite funding pot from which we already pay for our highway network, our water supply and treatment, our bus passes and public transport as well as maintaining our rivers. The Minister has a thankless task in seeking additional funding to bring our infrastructure up to date and dealing with maintaining resilience during these storm conditions. Without the adequate allocation of funds, we simply will not be able to maintain all our necessary services in these extreme weather events. Now is the time to invest and ensure that resilience of our key infrastructure is maintained. To address the impact of Climate change it is beholding on all of us to think about how we live our lives and to start to seek ways of reducing our impact on carbon emissions to try and slow the rate of change of the crisis.

BRISTOL-V- BELFAST: TRANSPORT

Over the last month I have had the pleasure of visiting Bristol and SW England to look at the sustainable measures that have been

introduced to address these issues, to reduce town centre congestion and to encourage more sustainable travel and I want to compare them with what we currently do here in NI.

Like Belfast’s Glider, Bristol has introduced dedicated bus lanes with public transport priority at traffic signals so that they can run their modern, eco-friendly MetroBuses. This is also a bus-based rapid transit system that links to park-and-ride schemes that allow commuters to park their cars on the outskirts of the city and take a bus into the centre. Such a facility reduces the number of cars commuting into the city centre and helps to alleviate town centre congestion as well as lowering vehicular emissions and reducing our carbon impact.

Within our Northern Ireland cities and major towns, we need to think about where we locate our car parks and where we can provide affordable alternative public transport services. These car parks are currently located on the edge of our city centres and were always potential development sites for the future. Their development will boost the vitality

and viability of the existing centres. Within Bristol, the Council has provided further investments in public transport including enhancements to bus services, integration of ticketing and improved passenger information. Our Grand Central station will provide an enhancement but only in Belfast City Centre. Bristol has also invested heavily in cycling infrastructure to encourage more people to cycle. Like Northern Ireland, there is an increased development of cycle paths, bike lanes, and bike parking facilities together with a campaign that promotes cycling through events, information, and support for cyclists. I did note the Brompton bike hiring docks near the train station.

Within Bristol there are car clubs and shared mobility services to reduce the need for private car ownership. Car clubs provide access to vehicles on a shortterm basis, which can reduce the number of cars on the road, a bit like the system used by Belfast Bikes which allows hourly hiring. These have been approved on private land within Belfast and we have started to see them appear at our railway stations for the final miles of a journey.

However, the legislation is still not in place to allow us to allocate public road space for this essential service. We really need to campaign to have this put in place.

BRISTOL-V-BELFAST: CLEAN AIR

Bristol has also introduced a Clean Air Zone to reduce air pollution, and this is associated with charges to prevent the most polluting vehicles from entering the city centre and encouraging the use of cleaner vehicles and alternative modes of transport. These include Electric vehicles (EV’s) and unlike Belfast and Derry, Bristol city is expanding its network of electric vehicle charging points to support the transition to electric cars with incentives for businesses to install chargers. This is just a stopgap as all we have done is change the fuel in our chariots and have not really addressed how we deal with moving people and goods. However, we do need a plan in place to install the EV infrastructure until we have more viable alternatives.

Karen McShane and Conor Spackman BBC Spotlight.

Flooding at Newry during Storm Babet.

BRISTOL-V-BELFAST:

URBAN REALM

One of the main differences that I noticed with Bristol compared to our NI cities was that they had introduced Pedestrian Zones and Significant Urban Realm Improvements. I know City Deal funding has been allocated to improvements in our Urban Realm and the Department for Communities has completed various stages of Streets Ahead, but do we yet have plans to provide more pedestrianisation schemes to make our city centres more pedestrian-friendly?

Like Liverpool and Birmingham, Bristol has already introduced car-free areas, improved public spaces, and enhanced walkability through better street design and wayfinding. These public spaces do make it possible to achieve city centre living for families as the facilities are in place for play and recreation. We need to consider the same in our towns and cities.

One of the biggest things that I noticed in Bristol City Centre was the lack of car traffic. My host told me that there are now Congestion Charging and Low Emission Zones within the city, like London. The Council have also other pilot projects related to congestion charging and low-emission zones to further discourage the use of highemission vehicles in the city centre and although proving controversial they are having a major impact on car use in the city centre. I did notice that there was good footfall to the retail units as a result and people sitting enjoying the traffic-free environment.

Alternative options for improving the viability and vitality of our town centres are under scrutiny all the time and Bristol has taken this step to address both climate action and improve the city centre environment. Such measures have not been implemented in Northern Ireland but given the difficulty in raising additional funding for infrastructure such as water supply and treatment, it may become inevitable that we see similar schemes coming forward in the future.

BRISTOL HAS ACTED, NOW IT IS TIME FOR NORTHERN IRELAND

Bristol’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) outlines a strategic framework for sustainable transport development, focusing on integrating various modes of transport, improving infrastructure, and promoting behavioural change towards more sustainable travel options. Ideally, it looks at moving people and goods rather than cars and vehicles. These proposals included Active Travel Initiatives such as walking and cycling campaigns, school travel plans, and workplace travel planning. These initiatives aim to increase the proportion of journeys made by walking and cycling and set a new ethos of how we live our lives.

As part of the Low Emission Zones and reduced vehicular traffic in the city centre the Council, as the roads authority, have been able to introduce new Smart Transport Technologies. The city is investing in realtime traffic management systems to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion.

These technologies help manage the city’s transport network more efficiently and reduce emissions from idling vehicles. By implementing these measures, Bristol aims to create a more sustainable, efficient, and environmentally friendly transport system that reduces congestion and lowers greenhouse gas emissions.

Within Northern Ireland, we are at a stage where we cannot squeeze any more capacity onto our congested city approach roads and we need to start looking at a ‘decide and provide’ scenario where we optimise the travel modes so that we can deliver the maximum number of people rather than the maximum number of cars.

The Glider has been a real catalyst and has delivered a significant increase in use as it is easy to use, is ticketless on the vehicle and has a guaranteed journey time from the dedicated road space. The future allows this to have increased frequency so we can carry more people rather than more vehicles. This allows for increased movement along these corridors.

Is it now time for Northern Ireland to address this climate crisis and act. It is time to deliver the north-south Glider route and to start to consider what other measures we must introduce to make the future more sustainable while maintaining the vitality and viability of our town and city centres. We need to encourage our Ministers to take the brave decisions for the future of the country rather than looking at short-term election goals.

Brunells ”The Engine Shed” now a business centre.

Control of access at “The Eye” on Glass Wharf.

Solar powered Bicycle hire at Bristol’s Temple Mead station.

Karen crossing Valentines Bridge on Bristol Canal.

Bristol’s new segregated two way cycle lanes at Redcliff.

Piletec may have proved themselves a victim of their own hiring success!

Groundforce Safety adds defibrillators to safety product portfolio

Specialist construction equipment supplier

Groundforce has taken its hire fleet of site safety products to the next level, with the introduction of (AED) iPad SP1 defibrillators. These defibrillators help contractors to provide potentially lifesaving treatment to their site personnel.

Combined with effective CPR, they are the only definitive treatment for casualties of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).

Without immediate treatment, 95% of SCAs are fatal but delivering a shock within three to five minutes of onset increases a person’s survival chances from 6% to 74%.

The defibrillators are the latest evidence of Groundforce’s commitment to driving and improving safety standards in the industry, with initiatives such as its industry training courses and an extensive range of equipment that includes edge protection systems for excavation

support systems and ladder access platforms. Fall arrest and rescue systems, davit arm rescue systems and stretchers have also recently been added to the portfolio.

Joseph Lenihan, Director at Groundforce Ireland, said: “We believe every site, no matter how small, should have a defibrillator. We are in the business of protecting people’s lives and this new product

offering complements our existing excavation safety and rescue systems.”

A customer was so impressed with the Diesko ICE 8SG Side Grip Hammer they supplied that they may invest in one themselves, for their fleet.

Piletec supplied the Side Grip Hammer to extract 9m U steel sheet piles which had been installed using a five-tonne crane-suspended vibrator during construction of a new motorway bridge.

THE CHALLENGE

Following the construction of the bridge, the piles had to be removed within the restricted headroom under the bridge. Other considerations which had to be taken into account before removing the piles included the ground conditions. It was necessary to ensure the vibrator was suitable to extract the piles and the customer’s excavator was compatible and had sufficient oil flow to operate the 8SG.

THE SOLUTION

To deliver the most appropriate equipment, engineers from Piletec carried out a comprehensive assessment of the site and engaged in detailed discussions with the customer.

excavators, Piletec suggested using the Dieseko ICE 8SG Side Grip Hammer. Reliable, robust and powerful, it offered an effective solution to seamlessly integrate the equipment with the customer’s 49-tonne Hitachi excavator. Piletec also collaborated on the design, fabrication and fitting of an OilQuick Coupler to the 8SG piling hammer. This customisation facilitated not only compatibility but also flexibility for the customer to switch between piling and other operations during the hire period.

ON-SITE OPERATION

established the necessary hose connections, and integrated the electric control cable and 8SG joystick control into the excavator’s cab.

Following the successful function test, which included tilt, rotate, clamp and side arms operations, the Piletec engineer used the IQAN service and maintenance app to check the RPM and back pressure of the 8SG via Bluetooth connectivity. With the 8SG fitted, the excavator driver commenced pile extraction. With the lower 60-tonne clamp closed on the pile, the vibrator was initiated, and within three minutes, the pile was successfully extracted by three meters.

Repositioning the 8SG with the side arms connected to the pile’s pan allowed for the complete extraction and lowering it to the ground under the restricted headroom of the new bridge.

During the Piletec engineer’s time on site, three further piles were successfully extracted. The customer was pleased with the result and commented that they may invest in a side grip hammer for their fleet.

Piletec offers a range of products from the Dieseko group and as the customer was already familiar with equipment from this manufacturer, and factoring in the ground conditions and the capacity of the customer’s

00000 GF Side Grip Hammer Ad 180_131mm.qxp_Layout 1 08/05/2024 09:34 Page 1

Once the 8SG was delivered to site and following recommendations to the customer from Piletec to also have a Hitachi service engineer attend the site to assist with any potential adjustments to the excavator’s oil flow. Piletec’s field service engineer, Micheal Machin, equipped with a flow meter, measured the oil flow from the excavator’s dual flow circuit, and working with the Hitachi service engineer, adjustments were made to ensure the optimal 220 litres per minute required for the 8SG were achieved. The subsequent installation and function testing of the equipment was efficiently carried out by Piletec’s engineer, who connected the 8SG to the OilQuick Coupler,

www.vpgroundforce.ie

Side-Grip

CRUSHING & SCREENING SERVICES

NI PROVIDING EXPERT SUPPORT FOR QUARRY PLANT EQUIPMENT

Crushing & Screening Services Northern Ireland (CSSNI) was founded in 2021 by Enda Keenan, an enterprising man with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the set-up, repair and maintenance of quarry plant equipment, garnered from many years’ working all over the world. The company specialises in plant set-up, repair, electric, hydraulic and engine diagnostics, preventative maintenance, and all types of quarry services and more. Based in Clogher, County Tyrone, CSSNI works on sites throughout UK and Ireland, directly for quarry operators and with plant dealer networks and manufacturers.

Plant and Civil Engineer caught up with Enda to talk about the success of his business and the path that equipped him with the experience, knowledge and skills that have made CSSNI one of the most sought-after support operations in the crushing and screening world.

WORKING AT HOME AND AWAY

Enda left school at 16 and went to work for Metso, completing a crushing and screening mechanical apprenticeship and staying with the company for the next four years, working in machine assembly.

Travel beckoned and Enda went to Perth in Western Australia, where he took a job with OPS Screening and Crushing Equipment, a Terex Finlay dealership.

Enda explained: “I was the service technician on the road, working

on repairs, maintenance and diagnostics, as well as providing operator training in machine operation and maintenance and health and safety. I would often be away for two months at a time and I mostly worked on mining sites throughout Austrailia.”

In January 2015, Enda came home to Northern Ireland to marry Tanya and settle down to family life. He was employed by Terex in Omagh to give technical support to customers, initially over the phone, although the job soon developed into on-site technical and diagnostics service and support for Terex customers around the world.

Once again, Enda put on his travelling boots, working with Terex customers throughout the UK and Ireland and in Italy, Finland, Spain, Japan and other parts of the world.

“The Tokyo trip was a combination of machine training for the Japanese

dealer and also supporting him and his team at the N-EXPO event in Tokyo”, said Enda SETTING UP IN

BUSINESS

In 2021, Enda took the decision to leave his job with Terex to set up his own business –Crushing & Screening Services Northern Ireland (CSSNI).

“I was born with spanners in my hand, not a pen and I wanted to try going out on my own,” said Enda. “It was the middle of ‘Lockdown’ and there were a few people who thought I was mad in the head, but it was something I had to do.”

The move has been successful and, three years on, Enda has a full order book for work and has maintained good working relationships with previous employers.

He still works directly for Terex and is contracted to provide

technical service and support to the dealer network for Terex and Terex Finlay. CCSNI also works with undercarriage specialist Strickland Tracks, diagnosing issues on track assemblies and offering technical support within warranty.

The company now has two vans on the road full-time, for Enda and his full-time colleague, Sam Badger, who joined the company in September last year.

Reflecting on his decision to set up his own company Enda said:” It has worked out very well. There were a lot of headaches with the paperwork of setting up and the ongoing admin side but, thankfully, my wife Tanya does most of the admin for me and I focus on the reports and ordering in spare parts I need to provide for customers.

“There’s no doubt that going into business is a lot of hard work and involves a lot of sacrifices as I am still away from home and my family a lot. As well as working on new machines, I am also working on repair and maintenance on all types of machinery, whether

that is new or used, in quarries all over the UK and ireland.

“It’s hard, challenging work but it suits me and the business is thriving, so I’m making hay while the sun shines! I hope I can keep growing my customer base and my business,” concludes Enda.

You can contact Enda by telephone 07586 610129 or by email at cssni21@gmail.com

Enda Keenan.

crushing & screening

Transform even the toughest feed material into profit with the EDGE SCREENPRO S18 heavy-duty, tracked scalping Screen. EDGE Innovate, a global leader in the design and distribution of a range of equipment used in the quarrying, port handling and recycling industries has expanded its offering with a product that delivers high production rates and precision screening.

The dynamic 18’x6’ (5.4x1.75m) two-deck screen of the EDGE SCREENPRO S18 features interchangeable flip flow and conventional scalper screens, providing unprecedented flexibility. A highly versatile screening solution, the new SCREENPRO S18 is designed to process the most difficult and demanding of applications, including aggregate, construction waste, sand and gravel, soils and organic materials. With numerous screen media options and configurations available, the EDGE S18 can be utilised as a stand-alone unit

CONQUER THE TOUGHEST OF FEED MATERIAL WITH THE EDGE SCREENPRO S18

or if needed, placed before or after a primary crusher.

FEATURES FOR MULTIFUNCTION OPERATION

Impressive design features include, a low-level feed hopper, 2 or 3-way split configuration, hydraulic folding discharge conveyors to facilitate the quick transition from operation to transport and a fully integrated power unit with large service access. A user-friendly control system with sequential start/ stop functionality provides exceptional operational performance and unit safety. Offering the largest hopper capacity in its class, the EDGE SCREENPRO S18 encompasses a 1400mm (55”) wide, variable speed feeder with forward/ reverse functionality. A large feed opening ensures optimum flow of material to the scalping screen. EDGE’s intelligent load management system constantly monitors conveyor load pressures and regulates feeder speed resulting in superior uptime by eliminating material overload and ensures optimum

screening production at any given time. Hydraulic folding hopper extensions allow for side loading whilst a folding hopper rear door provides even further loading flexibility.

At the heart of the SCREENPRO S18 is an EDGE designed high-stroke scalping screen with a screening area of up to 18.3m² (21.7yds²) and a wide variable working angle to suit an array of applications. The aggressive high stroke action results in superior material separation and a generous screening area ensures precision fines separation. To ensure minimal downtime, the screenbox encompasses hydraulic lift-up functionality for a quick and efficient mesh exchange process, supported by full-access walkways on both sides of the screen. Customers can choose from a wide range of screen media options including woven mesh, punch plate, finger screens and bofor (grizzly) decks to achieve a variety of final grain sizes and to process different feed material.

FLEXIBLE BY DESIGN

Adding to the versatility of this new SCREENPRO range is its ability to interchange the highly aggressive scalping screen with EDGE Innovate’s award winning flip flow screen. This flexibility combined with numerous screen media options and configurations allows the EDGE SCREENPRO S18 to process a wide range of materials and to tackle screening applications that other conventional screens cannot, such as incinerator slag or wet, damp and sticky material.

The side discharge conveyors offer market-leading belt widths and discharge heights whilst set up takes a matter of minutes. Thanks to an intuitive design, the plant is fully customizable both in the field and from the factory with side conveyors that can be reversed or discharged on the same side or converted to a two-way split without any additional parts required. Unlike competing models, the SCREENPRO S18 can be road transported in these set up modes.

To meet the demands of recycling applications, the SCREENPRO S18 can be equipped with both over-band magnets and magnetic head drums for the extraction and recovery of ferrous metals. The oversize discharge conveyor features a heavy duty 1600mm (63”), chevron belt as standard with a combination of impact bars and rollers absorbing the impact from loading material, thus prolonging the life of the conveyor belt. The oversize discharge conveyor can be lowered to 5° to provide superior access to the lower screen deck and aids in the screen media exchange process.

SAFE OPERATION AND IMPRESSIVE POWER

The EDGE SCREENPRO S18 also offers added remote functionality for improved operator efficiency and safety. All major functions on the S18 including tracking, feed conveyor speed adjustment, sequential start up and hopper jacklegs can be remotely operated from a safe distance of up to 100m or in the comfort of the operator’s cabin.

crushing & screening

Powered by either a Caterpillar or Cummins Tier 4 Final / Stage V ACERT engine ensures the SCREENPRO S18 drive system provides the operator with a reliably, durable and fuel efficient screening solution. An electric hybrid option further enhances cost savings and environmental benefits, combining the advantages of an electric power unit with

traditional diesel/hydraulic power. Utilising a small onboard diesel engine for tracking and set up, operators can then connect to an external electricity supply once the machine is in position.

Tom Connolly, EDGE Innovate Global Sales Manager commented “the EDGE SCREENPRO S18 is a highly functional, reliable, efficient and easy-to-operate versatile machine

that perfectly complements our other products and will serve to further raise and enhance the profile of the EDGE Innovate brand in the years ahead.”

For more information on EDGE’s new mobile scalper screen, please visit; www.edgeinnovate.com

crushing & screening

EVOQUIP TO PREVIEW BISON 220R AT HILLHEAD

EvoQuip®—a global manufacturer of compact crushing and screening equipment, will run live working demonstrations of the brand-new Bison™ 220R jaw crusher at Hillhead from 25-27 June 2024 in Buxton, England. As well as giving attendees an exclusive preview of the Bison™ 220R, EvoQuip will also display the Caiman™ 150 shredder on Stand L4. The EvoQuip range of mobile crushing, screening and shredding equipment provides compact and versatile solutions that can operate in the most demanding applications, including reinforced concrete, recycled asphalt, construction and demolition waste, coal, and natural rock. EvoQuip also provides the perfect solution for onsite recycling in urban areas, with all the products being easily transportable from job to job.

Barry O’Hare, Business Line Director said, “We are very excited to exhibit once again at Hillhead and especially to be providing a sneak peek of the Bison 220R in a live working demo. This machine is the latest addition to our jaw crusher range, and it will be working throughout the show so attendees will be able to see firsthand what it can do. We encourage people to stop by our stand, where they will also be able to view the Caiman 150 shredder and chat to our team about their compact crushing and screening needs.”

EVOQUIP BISON 220R

The EvoQuip Bison 220R boasts an impressive 820mm x 550mm (32” x 22”) jaw inlet and has 240MP compressive strength to process a wide range of applications. Its efficient hydrostatic drive system not only optimises fuel efficiency but also enhances

performance, complemented by the ability to run the chamber in reverse. The optional ‘R’ section (recirculating conveyor) of the machine enables the required product specification to be achieved, with oversize material either being recirculated back to the crusher or stockpiled. The ability to quickly detach the complete afterscreen system, including the oversize conveyor, provides the option of running the machine in standard mode or transporting separately. The Bison 220R also features an 8’ x 4’ single deck screen on the ‘R’ section, to aid efficient screening. Moreover, operators benefit from the flexibility to raise and lower the product conveyor, facilitating smooth material handling. With quick setup times, simple intuitive operation, easy maintenance and transport capabilities, the Bison 220R stands out as a versatile and user-friendly solution for various crushing applications

EVOQUIP CAIMAN 150

The EvoQuip Caiman 150 shredder offers efficient material reduction for diverse applications such as C&D, asphalt, skip waste, green waste, wood, and household waste,

such as mattresses. The heart of the Caiman 150 is its compact 1.5m twin shaft shredding unit, which produces up to 80,000Nm of torque per shaft, allowing for highly efficient material reduction and making it a versatile choice for a wide range of waste materials. This, along with the ability to quickly change shafts, allows the end user to swiftly change from working in one application to another. Further flexibility is offered with the option to operate the shredder with either synced or independent shafts, along with other design features including a robust track sub-frame with bolt-on tracks, catering to both track and track/hooklift versions. This adaptability empowers users to tailor their approach to deal with various application requirements and processing challenges, ensuring optimal results every time. Finally, the Caiman 150 features a robust tracking system and hydraulic chassis for smooth operation and diagnostics, complemented by user-friendly controls and remote functionality, with the added benefit of containerised transport capability for efficient shipping solutions.

CHARITY DRIVE FOR CYSTIC FIBROSIS

The EvoQuip team is also using their presence at Hillhead to raise funds for Cystic fibrosis, one of the UK’s most common life-threatening inherited conditions. Paul O’Hagan, EvoQuip Business Development Manager, sadly lost his brother to the Cystic fibrosis in October 2023. In memory of him and to support people currently living with the condition, the team are fundraising for Cystic Fibrosis Trust at their Stand L4 with a game and opportunities to donate during the show. Online donations are also welcome via JustGiving: https:// www.justgiving.com/page/evoquip

crushing & screening

METSO DISTRIBUTOR MCHALE PLANT SALES WELCOMES LAUNCH OF NEW LOKOTRACK DIESEL-ELECTRIC CRUSHERS

News from Metso announcing their launch of a new diesel-electric power line to the aggregates market has been welcomed by their UK and Ireland distributors, McHale Plant Sales, with confirmation that deliveries to customers can commence immediately first units are received.

Commenting, McHale managing director, Tim Shanahan said:

“The introduction of the new Lokotrack EC models provides an important extra option for aggregates producers in circumstances where the convenience, zero emissions, and cost-saving benefits of electric power are a major consideration”.

First two products in the new EC range are a Lokotrack LT400J 68-ton mobile jaw crusher designed for the primary crushing of hard rock and recycled aggregates, and a 50-ton mobile Lokotrack LT350C cone crusher for secondary and tertiary crushing, both of which can be seamlessly combined with each other and with Lokotrack mobile

screens to produce high-quality aggregates. As all process functions are electric, the use of hydraulic oil needed in the crushing operations is significantly reduced.

To reach high capacity, the LT350C is equipped with the new Nordberg HP350e cone crusher and the LT400J with the proven Nordberg C120 jaw crusher.

MDS

TO EXHIBIT M412 AND

M515

TROMMELS AT HILLHEAD 2024

MDS, a leading manufacturer of heavyduty rock trommels and conveyors, will feature the M412 and M515 track trommels at Hillhead 2024.

The compact yet powerful M412, located on Stand L5, represents performance and durability, having been engineered to screen the most challenging of applications from demolition waste to quarry overburden. Its capability to handle material as large as 600mm (24”) makes it a versatile asset, equally at home in a quarry or at a construction and demolition (C&D) site.

As well as the M412, MDS will feature the M515 mobile track trommel in the designated demo area. Capable of processing the largest of rocks, up to 800mm (32â€) in size, the M515 is robust to tackle the toughest applications, regardless of weather conditions.

The M515 also offers enhanced stockpile capacities and ease of transportation, thanks to its fold-out stockpiling conveyors and four hydraulic jacking legs.

Conor Hegarty, General Manager at MDS, stated, “We are excited to exhibit at Hillhead

again this year and showcase the finest products in our range. At MDS, we are well-known for setting new benchmarks in trommel technology. What sets us apart is not just our innovation, but the

toughness and durability embedded in every machine we create. We invite attendees to visit MDS at Stand L5 and see first-hand how our solutions can tackle the toughest of quarried aggregates.”

Following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI), a Dunmurrybased concrete products company has been fined £1,000 after pleading guilty to a single health and safety offence.

The Court heard that on 24 May 2023, during an HSENI inspection of the premises, three separate locations where employees were able to access dangerous moving parts of machines and equipment were identified.

Concrete products manufacturer fined after placing employees at risk Engineering company fined following health and safety failures

HSENI Inspector, Kevin Campbell said: “Employers have a legal duty to ensure employees and others are not put at risk from unguarded machinery. Serious incidents can result where workers are able to access dangerous areas as a result of safety features not being adequately maintained, or where they have been intentionally bypassed. HSENI will not hesitate to recommend the prosecution of companies who repeatedly fail to provide safe working conditions for their employees.”

Access gates to onsite machinery did not have effective safety interlocking mechanisms in place, which are designed to stop the machines from operating when the gates were opened. One gate had no interlocked safety feature. On the other two gates, the interlock mechanism was defeated or broken. The absence of effective safety interlocking mechanisms meant that an employee could easily open the gates and access dangerous moving parts of the plant thereby exposing themselves to injury, including potentially fatal injuries.

HSENI served three Prohibition Notices on the Company preventing specific parts of the plant from operating until adequate measures were in place to prevent access to dangerous parts of machinery. HSENI had previously issued seven similar Prohibition Notices at the premises. Specific guidance in relation to machinery guarding for the concrete products industry can be found at: Machinery guarding, safe isolation and maintenance - Concrete premises resource list (hseni.gov.uk)

Following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI), a County Tyrone engineering company has been fined for failing to ensure the safety of employees while working at an automatic lathe.

At Craigavon Crown Court, the company was fined £25,000 after earlier pleading guilty to a single health and safety offence.

The Court heard that on 10 October 2022, an employee sustained serious hand injuries while using emery cloth at an automatic lathe. A metal

component had been placed into the automatic lathe and the emery cloth was applied by hand to remove rust.

It was further established that the interlocking doors to the lathe had been bypassed, meaning the lathe could be operated with the doors open.

HSENI Inspector Gavin Rowan said: “Employers have a legal duty to ensure employees and others are not put at risk from unguarded machinery.

“Serious incidents involving the use of emery cloth at metalworking

lathes are common and result in injuries such as broken bones, dislocations, and amputations.

“It is never acceptable to apply emery cloth directly by hand on a rotating automatic or manual metal working machine.”

Emery cloth is a type of abrasive paper or sandpaper, that can be used to debur, polish or size a wide range of metal components while held in the rotating chuck jaws of a lathe. Emery cloth should never be applied directly by hand to manual or automatic lathes.

Company and driver fined following death of employee

Following a joint investigation by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), a Dungannon-based company and one of its drivers were both sentenced after the death of a male employee in the company. The investigation followed the death of 19-year-old man, who on 8th June 2021, tragically lost his life while he was working alongside a gully emptying lorry at a location in County Down. At

the time of the incident, he had only been employed with the company for one week.

The joint investigation found that the young man died from his injuries after falling under the passenger side wheel of the vehicle.

The company was fined £80,000 after pleading guilty to a single health and safety offence. The driver of the lorry pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving as well as a single health and safety offence, and was sentenced to six months imprisonment for

each offence, both of which were suspended for two years.

Speaking after the Crown Court hearing, HSENI Inspector Gavin Rowan said: “This tragic incident involving a young man was completely avoidable.

“For many young people, the workplace will be a new environment and they will be unfamiliar with ‘obvious’ risks and the behaviour expected of them. The prevalence of accidents involving workers is much greater during their first 6 months at work. Employers

must take account of this, in addition to providing a system of work to do the job safely.”

The investigation determined that no appropriate measures were put in place to prevent persons travelling on the external steps of vehicles.

The company failed to ensure reasonably practicable measures were taken to ensure safety, and the driver failed to take reasonable care for the health and safety of another person who may have been affected by his acts or omissions at work, specifically that he continued to drive the vehicle knowing that his work colleague had been present on the side of the lorry during the work activity.

50 year anniversary

CREAGH: 50 GOLDEN YEARS AND STILL TAKING CONCRETE TO NEW HEIGHTS

BY EMMA COWAN

This year Creagh Concrete has reached its fiftieth anniversary and celebrated with an open day at its Toome and Ardboe sites for customers, suppliers and stakeholders.

Touring the two facilities, guests had the opportunity to see firsthand the cutting-edge processes and innovations that go into Creagh’s concrete products and learn more about the company’s commitment to quality, safety and sustainability. The day included a presentation by Creagh Concrete’s charity partner, Habitat for Humanity Ireland, highlighting the organisation’s work locally and globally, and the celebration concluded with sociable hospitality at The Elk restaurant in Toome.

Reflecting on the company’s journey, CEO of Creagh Concrete, Seamus McKeague said:

“Reaching 50 years in business is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire

team, past and present. We owe our success to our loyal customers, partners, and the communities we operate in. As we celebrate this milestone, we are more committed than ever to driving innovation and delivering exceptional quality in every project we undertake.”

FROM ONE READYMIX PLANT TO UK-WIDE MANUFACTURER

Founded in 1974 by brothers Gerard, Seamus and Patrick (Paddy) McKeague, Creagh Concrete began operations

with a small readymix plant in Toomebridge (Toome). Originally, the company focussed on readymix, moving into a range of pre-cast products for the agricultural sector, which led to the company’s successful entry into the precast and pre-stressed concrete construction products sector.

Over the years, the company acquired two quarries the first in Draperstown and the second in Magheraglass in Tyrone. The Draperstown quarry was the company’s first acquisition.

Seamus recalled: “We secured our sand and gravel pit in Draperstown, County Derry, in 1993 to allow us to supply our manufacturing facilities in Toomebridge. This was owned by a family in Draperstown and we bought the quarry but retained the employees to help the company with succession.” Whilst the quarries are the source of raw materials for producing readymix and manufacturing Creagh products, the company continues to serve both the agriculture and construction sectors with readymix, sand and gravel.”

The company that is Creagh Concrete today is almost (but not quite) unrecognisable from that initial readymix batching plant. The McKeague brothers are still the leaders of the company, although the board now numbers 12 directors) and the Toome site remains the company’s headquarters. Nowadays, the site at Toome houses the head offices and 15 separate factories, manufacturing Creagh’s range of products.

Creagh Open Day.

The company also has factories and office facilities in Ardboe, County Tyrone, Edinburgh in Scotland and Hoveringham in Nottinghamshire.

Today, Creagh Concrete is a premier provider of concrete products and solutions in the UK and Ireland. The company specialises in precast concrete, structural solutions, and custom concrete products for various industries. With a strong focus on innovation, quality, and sustainability, Creagh Concrete continues to set the standard in the construction industry.

INNOVATION AT THE CORE

Any company that has continued to be in operation for five decades will have experienced tough times and will have been on an ever-changing evolutionary curve. Over time, new products may come and go, or come and develop into something else. Business survival and success factors will include having the right team of people, a strong focus on quality in every aspect of the business and, perhaps most of all, an innovating ethos with a high tolerance for risk. All of those elements are combined in Creagh Concrete. The company introduced the first precast flooring product to the UK market at a time when pre-stressed flooring just wasn’t a feature in construction. And it was back in 2008 that Creagh began to take steps towards complete precast buildings manufactured offsite in factories, following a European lead, specifically Italy, once again being the pioneer in the UK. In an interview then, Seamus McKeague told me: “The steel reinforcement element is only between five to ten per cent of the structure, so that represents a considerable reduction in steel costs.” At that stage, Seamus could already see the energy efficiency and sustainable benefits of precast concrete buildings in terms of thermal mass properties and the whole life cost of the buildings. In short, Creagh Concrete has long been a pioneer in modern methods of construction.

As Seamus said: “Today, our business is synonymous with delivering cutting-edge solutions for a wide range of construction projects, including residential, commercial, and infrastructure developments. With a focus on meeting the evolving needs of the construction sector, we consistently

50 year anniversary

demonstrate a dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of concrete construction.”

RAPIDRES TAKES OFFSITE TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Today, Creagh Concrete is still pushing the boundaries of construction possibilities with Rapidres, its latest construction product development. Rapidres is a fast-track offsite crosswall build system

FOUNDED IN 1974 BY BROTHERS GERARD, SEAMUS AND PATRICK (PADDY) MCKEAGUE, CREAGH CONCRETE BEGAN OPERATIONS WITH A SMALL READYMIX PLANT IN TOOMEBRIDGE (TOOME).

ideal for use in apartments, student accommodation, hotels, social housing and custodial accommodation. Rapidres is a bespoke product, with each unit type customdesigned and manufactured to fit the project specifications. It delivers robust traditional-style construction with the advantage of a fast installation programme. This effectively reduces costs and material waste, as well as contributing to sustainability goals. It also allows for early

access for follow-on trades. The Rapidres concrete system delivers an exceptional highperforming building in terms of cold bridging, airtightness and thermal performance. Each unit is a high-performance insulated sandwich panel built offsite with a high-quality internal finish ready for decoration, with cast-in conduits, electrics and ventilation. Panels can even come to the building site with preinstalled windows and doors. It is particularly suited to constrained sites where laydown space is at a premium. Creagh Concrete offers a wide range of external finishes for Rapidres that can match virtually any other build type. These now include a versatile range of finishes including smooth, etched, patterned and even printed concrete. In short, Rapidres offers individuality and a maintenancefree alternative to render systems.

Seamus, Paddy and Gerard McKeague.

50 year anniversary

In addition to the Rapidres’ high-performance attributes and many finishing options, Seamus McKeague pointed out: “With labour shortages a constant factor in the current construction landscape, Rapidres offers a significantly reduced onsite manpower requirement. It is much less labour-intensive and doesn’t require scaffolding, reducing health and safety risks as well as costs. The build time using Rapidres is reduced by half over conventional build methods and that is very attractive to property investors and equity stakeholders, as their investment generates returns more quickly.”

RAPIDRES GOES HIGH AT GUILDFORD CRESCENT

Rapidres is ideally suited to multi-storey projects where the layout is replicated consistently

across each floor, which is exactly why UK construction company Galliford Try has specified the system for The Marcol Estate’s Guildford Crescent development in Cardiff. Construction is currently underway on the 30-storey buildto-rent residential tower, which will include 272 apartments, comprising 140 one-bed and 132 two-bed living units. The building will also house a fitness studio, sports room, residents’ lounge, flexible workspace and private dining areas. The ground floor will feature retail space and there will be a planted rooftop terrace on the 27th floor.

The development required the demolition of a terrace of 19th-century homes and, as part of the project, the brick façade of this terrace will be recreated at street level on the Rapidres construction.

This construction approach is one that Galliford Try identifies as a future trend, marking it as an area of potential growth for Creagh Concrete. Bill Hocking, Chief Executive of Galliford Try, commented: “Build-to-rent is a key area for growth within our business’s Sustainable Growth Strategy. The Guildford Crescent scheme is the first of a number of similar schemes we are taking on in this space and we look forward to creating fantastic new living spaces for the community in Cardiff alongside our partners.”

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

While Creagh Concrete is celebrating its golden anniversary, the company is also looking forward to the future, continuing innovation in all aspects of business operations and outputs. With plans for expanding its

product line, entering new markets, and continuing to prioritise sustainability, Creagh Concrete is poised for continued growth and success. The company’s strategic initiatives include developing ecofriendly concrete solutions and leveraging digital technologies to enhance production efficiency and product performance. “As industry leaders, we’re constantly innovating,” said Seamus. “This adaptability and the rate at which we adopt cutting-edge technologies and construction methodologies ensures that we stay ahead of trends and continuously meet the evolving needs of the market.”

www.creaghconcrete.co.uk

L-R: Nicky McKeague, Seamus McKeague and James McKeague.

L-R: Stephen Morgan, Seamus McKeague, Fergal McTague and John Ferguson.

370X - A HUGE STEP FORWARD FOR JCB

BY DAN GILKES

JCB has expanded its X-Series line-up of crawler excavators, with a move into the 35-40 tonne class. Originally launching in the 20-25 tonne market, the X-Series has been a big success for the global plant manufacturer, gradually replacing many of the firm’s small to medium-tracked machines.

The 20-25 tonne sector is the biggest single market in Europe, closely followed by the 13-14 tonne class, which is also catered for by JCB’s X-Series excavators. Now the company is turning its attention to the third largest sector, in terms of machine sales, with the launch of the 370X.

A natural replacement for the JS370, which has only been sold outside of emissions-regulated markets for some years, the 370X is a totally new machine, though it boasts many of the design and engineering features already seen on its

smaller stablemates. That includes the sturdy steel body panels and reinforced double-skinned access doors that give the machine such a distinctive appearance.

The focus on durability is more than skiddeep though, as the machine has been built to cope with tough working conditions. It sits on a robust X-frame undercarriage with much deeper profiles. There are new track motors and improved idler mountings, for additional stability on rough ground. Larger slew bearings add further rigidity and the machine is offered with a range of track pads, including heavy-duty tracks for both the LC and slimmer NLC track frames.

It’s a similar story above the slew ring, where the 370X uses a reinforced 6.45m monoboom with a choice of dipper arms. Optional heavy-duty dippers come with additional internal reinforcing steel and external crush bars, to protect the arm. The

bucket pin diameter has been increased from 90mm to 100mm, although JCB offers a dual pin quickhitch that can be used with either pin size. There is even a new range of XHD heavy-duty buckets available, designed specifically for the 370X.

POWER AND PERFORMANCE

The machine uses the latest Cummins L9 diesel engine, which has been certified to meet both EU Stage V and US Tier 4 Final emissions regulations. This powerful sixcylinder engine delivers 240kW (322hp), which is a 14% rise in output when compared to the older JS model. The engine delivers this output at a lower 1,700rpm, down from 1,900rpm on the previous machine, reducing noise levels and contributing to lower fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

Operators can further tailor the engine output using Power, Eco and Lift modes. The

Eco mode delivers the same output as Power mode on the previous generation machine, demonstrating the boost in output available. In addition, there are nine throttle settings, providing the operator with the ability to call up exactly the right amount of power for each task. To make the most of the new engine, the 370X uses the latest generation tandem hydraulic pump from Japanese manufacturer Kawasaki. With an increased 380 bar operating pressure available during power boost, the pumps deliver additional hydraulic power for heavy digging and lifting duties. A reversing hydraulic cooling fan and latest generation main valve block also contribute to increased efficiency and reduced fuel consumption.

view from the cab

The combination is certainly effective. During a test session at JCB’s Kevin Quarry we were able to get behind the controls and dig and load into an articulated dump truck with the 370X. For a machine of this size, the big JCB is incredibly smooth, offering real fingertip control of the boom and bucket functions. Even at lower rpm there is enough power to dig into the pile and there is plenty of output for smooth multi-functioning of controls. Sitting on top of the pile on an LC undercarriage, the 370X also delivered impressive stability, barely shifting its weight with a bucket at full reach across the tracks.

TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP (TCO)

The 370X has extended service intervals, with hydraulic and air filters now requiring a change at 2,000 hours. Engine coolant can last up to 3,000 hours. The wide doors provide good access to filters and fill points, with all service bays benefitting from internal lighting. Talking of which, while LED working lights are now standard on the X-Series machine, the 370X can be ordered with up to 14 work lights for poor visibility and night-time working.

A widecore radiator, with that reversing cooling fan, ensures that dust can be easily cleaned out to prevent overheating. The machine also benefits from Auto Idle and Auto Shutdown, keeping fuel consumption to a minimum.

At just under 40-tonnes operating weight, depending on specification, the 370X offers a maximum digging depth of 8.4m and a digging reach of up to 12.1m, when equipped with the longest 4.03m dipper arm. It is a powerful, productive machine, that takes JCB back into one of the most popular weight classes across the world.

view from the cab

COMFORT AND CONTROL

JCB’s Command Plus cab is well established and offered on all of the X-Series machines. However, the 370X is the first to get the company’s latest user interface, dubbed JCB UX. Based around a new 10” colour touchscreen monitor, the system has a rotary controller and a switch panel with customisable hot keys. Indeed, not only can the operator set the switches to meet their individual requirements, but all of the controls in the joystick heads can also be set-up to work in the way that the operator prefers. To achieve this, the hot keys are pulled up on the touchscreen and the operator can simply press on individual icons and drag them to the desired switch or control. The system can store up to 25 different operator user profiles, including administrators that can control which settings can be used. This allows different operators to set the machine to their

individual requirements, perfect for a rental machine, or to set the controls for different applications. Operators can even download their individual settings onto a USB stick and transfer them to another X-Series machine in the fleet if required.

The JCB cab is a comfortable place to spend the day, offering 2.86m3 of internal volume, which translates as more than enough space for drivers of all sizes. There is plenty of storage behind the heated, air suspended seat and the cab boasts a low noise level of just 69dB. Climate control, a DAB radio and keyless start are all on the specification list and the machine comes with cameras to the rear and to the side opposite the cab. A new option from JCB is an all-round camera system, using four cameras, that provides operators with multiple views through the new UX monitor.

The UX also further improves JCB’s optional Auto Tool Select (ATS) system. This hydraulic control system allows operators to fine tune hydraulic flows and pressures to suit individual attachments, saving the details for frequently used work tools. While most excavators have a system that can store various hydraulic flow settings, Auto Tool Select takes this further and ensures that operators can achieve optimum hydraulic performance for each individual attachment.

CONCLUSION

Whether working in a quarry application, in civil engineering or in bulk earthmoving, the 370X is a huge step forward for JCB at this weight and it should get positive feedback, from operators and owners.

www.dennisons.co.uk/jcb

PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

CONSTRUCTION, QUARRY & RECYCLING MAGAZINE

AWARD CATEGORIES 2024

PLANT HIRE COMPANY OF THE YEAR

The Plant Hire Company of the Year award celebrates excellence in the plant hire industry.

This award recognises a company that excels in providing topquality equipment, prioritises safety, delivers exceptional customer service, and demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. The Plant Hire Company of the Year sets the standard for excellence, innovation, and leadership within the industry.

EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE

MINERAL PRODUCTS SITE OF THE YEAR

This award celebrates the exemplary achievements of individual quarries, spanning the spectrum from hardrock to sand and gravel operations.

Entrants to this category showcase a commitment to fostering safe working environments, employing the highest standards of pollution control, and prioritising sustainability initiatives. Notably, contenders distinguish themselves through their dedication to biodiversity preservation and operational efficiency, setting benchmarks for industry best practices.

The Excellence in Customer Service Award recognises businesses who exemplify an unwavering dedication to providing unparalleled customer service experiences. This award honours those companies who consistently surpass expectations, demonstrating a profound commitment to understanding and addressing the diverse needs of their customers.

ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVE

The Environmental Initiative Award celebrates outstanding efforts in innovative resource management, environmental impact mitigation, and sustainability across various sectors. Whether through pioneering projects in biodiversity conservation, ethical business practices, charitable initiatives, or other means, this award honours companies, organisations, and initiatives that are making a tangible difference in preserving our planet and fostering sustainability.

HIGH ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR

This category is for the individual or company that has achieved outstanding success such as in sales, contract wins, company expansion/development or other areas of business over the past 12 months.

Open to any individual or company currently active in the construction, civil engineering, quarrying, waste management and plant & machinery industries. The entrant must highlight the area in which they operate, level and type of achievement as well as outline any relevant factors or reasons that contribute to that success.

CONSTRUCTION COMPANY OF THE YEAR

The award recognises sites that go beyond mere extraction, presenting a robust portfolio of products and services to meet diverse market demands.

The Construction Company of the Year award recognises excellence, innovation, and leadership within the construction industry. This award showcases companies that have consistently demonstrated outstanding achievements in various aspects of construction, including but not limited to residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects. The recipient of this award embodies the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and excellence.

WASTES MANAGEMENT & ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE

The Wastes Management & Environmental Excellence Award celebratesexcellence within the resources and Wastes Management industry. We seek to honour those who demonstrate exemplary best practices and innovation across various commercial and public sectors.

Nominations are open to companies and organisations who have showcased outstanding contributions in waste management, resource conservation, and environmental sustainability.

HEALTH & SAFETY

The Health & Safety Award acknowledges companies and organisations that demonstrate remarkable dedication and innovation in safeguarding the health, safety, and wellbeing of individuals across varied environments.

SPECIALIST CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

This award celebrates entities and initiatives that exhibit exceptional commitment to cultivating safe practices, mitigating accidents, and advancing overall wellness.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION

The Special Recognition Award acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated outstanding service and remarkable contributions to the construction, quarrying, plant & recycling sectors.

CONSTRUCTION PROJECT OF THE YEAR

The Construction Project of the Year Award celebrates excellence and innovation, in the construction industry across the island of Ireland and the UK.

Open to all construction companies, including contractors, developers, architects, and engineers, this prestigious award recognises outstanding projects completed within the last 18 months.

QUARRY MANAGER OF THE YEAR

This award recognises exemplary leadership and dedication within the quarry sector. It honours individuals who play a pivotal role in quarry management teams, showcasing outstanding contributions to various aspects of quarry operations.

WASTE MANAGEMENT TEAM OF THE YEAR

The Waste Management Team of the Year Award recognises outstanding achievement and innovation. This award honours

TOP TEAM OF THE YEAR

HOW TO ENTER:

Entries should not exceed word count of 1000 words.

A minimum of two high res images that best depict your entry to be supplied.

Supporting material can be supplied over and above.

Entries must be made by emailing a Word/ PDF document stating the award category to: golda@4squaremedia.net

Separate award entries to be emailed for each category entered.

Large files can be sent via WeTransfer - email to be sent to golda@4squaremedia.net to advise thereof.

The Top Team of the Year award celebrates the outstanding collaborative efforts within companies and businesses across various sectors, including plant, construction, quarry, civil engineering, and recycling industries. This award acknowledges teams within companies that have demonstrated exceptional teamwork, innovation, and dedication in executing a project, initiative, or strategy, resulting in a substantial and positive impact. Teams considered for this award have not only achieved remarkable results but have also overcome obstacles and challenges through effective collaboration and synergy.

Award Entry enquiries can be made to Golda Burrows - golda@4squaremedia.net

www.plantandcivilengineer.com

Lowry Building & Civil Engineering: PILOTING INNOVATIONS AT NI WATER’S DERG WATER TREATMENT WORKS

Undertaking a major water quality project in your own backyard is certainly a challenge. Working in the close-knit community where you are based means the pressure is on to be even better than your best. That was precisely the challenge Lowry Building & Civil Engineering embraced when the Castlederg company was awarded the contract to construct a new clarification process at NI Water’s Derg Water Treatment Works in Tyrone. Of course, the primary challenge was to deliver the project to the highest quality, on time and within budget for the client, Northern Ireland Water (NI Water). Notwithstanding, delivering better drinking water for the local community and beyond added an extra dimension – social responsibility in action!

Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd is a dynamic and innovative company that has built a strong reputation for highquality work through over 60 years of dedicated service delivery. With a focus on teamwork, both internally and with clients, the supply chain and the local community, the company delivers ‘best-in-class’ performance through a highly structured approach built on trust, commitment and exceeding client expectations. NI Water’s objectives for the Derg Water Treatment Works were twofold; to improve the drinking water quality and to enhance water security for the area the plant serves, namely the wider Castlederg, Strabane and Omagh areas.

PILOT PLANT TO IDENTIFY THE BEST APPROACH

The main water source for the Derg Works is the River Derg and, more recently, the River Strule. The approach taken for water clarification depends upon the attributes of the raw water source and Lowry Building & Civil Engineering along with NI Water wanted to ascertain which approach to clarification would yield the best results.

To do so, they took the innovative step of building a mobile pilot plant.

Richard Alcorn, Lowry’s Project Manager for the Derg Water Treatment Works, explained: “Water clarification generally entails three phases, coagulation, flocculation, and sedimentation. The flocculation phase is about removing suspended solids from water using a carbon-based additive. There are various options available on the market, but we wanted to find out which was the most suitable for the water the Derg facility processes.”

To do this, the team took the radical step of building a mobile pilot plant that could be

Back Row (L-R): Richard Alcorn (LBCE), Shaun Kelly (NI Water), Trevor Cousins (NI Water), Ian Rankin (NI Water), Shane McVerry (Murphy). Front Row (L-R): Donnla Fisher (RPS), Francis Bradley (NI Water), Mark Mitchell (NI Water), Eimear McDaid (NI Water), Irwin Brannigan (NI Water), Martin Gillen (NI Water), Dymphna Gallagher (NI Water).

used to test various additives and identify the best solution for clarifying the local water sources in the plant. This innovative step also meant that the client, NI Water, would have the mobile pilot plant for ongoing testing at different water treatment facilities.

Constructing the pilot plant and running tests with six different additives consumed nine months of the 18-month contract but yielded excellent results; allowing the identification of the best product to use in this instance.

It turned out that Purafloc, a liquid Powder Activated Carbon blend developed by Ballymena-based Clinty Chemicals was the ideal solution for clarifying water from the rivers Derg and Strule.

“Selecting Purafloc from our pilot plant testing turned out to be the second innovation in this project,” explained Richard Alcorn. “It is not as commonly used as other agents, so, effectively, we used a product new to NI Water, but it was the best, and most cost-effective, solution for this water treatment plant. The fact that it is manufactured by a Northern Irish company was an unexpected bonus, as ‘keeping it local’ is a priority for Lowry Building and Civil Engineering where possible.”

BUILDING A TREATMENT WORKS WITHIN A TREATMENT WORKS

Pilot Plant created! Testing completed! The second phase of the project involved building an additional water treatment facility within the curtilage of an existing and operational treatment works.

Richard Alcorn outlined the scope of the works: “We built one new building to house the water sedimentation tanks, which sounds simple, but there were challenges.

“The scale of that building was significant. The fact that the building site was adjacent to existing water treatment works and within a site compound that offered limited

storage and working space, meant that the project, which was civils intensive, had to be completed without intruding on the operation of the existing treatment works. There were occasions where we completed planned shut downs which were programmed diligently with NI Water and to a minimum.”

Richard continued; “We were very fortunate to be working with Belfast company RPS throughout, whose specialist knowledge was indispensable throughout the project”. “The project was also materials and supplychain-heavy. For example, a cofferdam had to be constructed five metres below ground, comprising 1,700m3 of concrete and over 200 tonnes of steel. There were no real problems at the construction stage, it was just a matter of the scale of the project and its material requirements within a confined space where the existing plat had to remain operational. What was pleasing for Lowry Building & Civil Engineering was that so much of our supply chain was local and within Northern Ireland.”

WATER QUALITY AND QUANTITY OUTCOMES

Every project is measured by results in terms that are meaningful for the client. In this instance, Mark Mitchell, NI Water’s Head of Integrated Capital Delivery said: “We are delighted with this major upgrade at Derg,

which will bring many improvements to our customers, including improved water quality and security of the local water supply. This key improvement scheme will also protect and future-proof the local water infrastructure for the area.”

In essence, the project has improved the efficiency of the existing works and increased the throughput of Derg WTW from 26 million litres of water per day to 34 million litres per day That equates to a 30% increase in capacity.

The novel approach of testing and using the most appropriate additive for the water source has brought about a significant improvement in water quality.

Throughout the pilot plant testing process and through to completed water treatment works, outputs were subject to Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) compliance testing. DWI ensures that water companies meet more than 50 legal standards for drinking water quality. The standards are strict and generally include wide safety margins. They cover bacteria; chemicals such as nitrates and pesticides; metals such as lead; and how water looks and tastes.

Turbidity (water clarity) is the main measurement used and it is measured in Nephelometric Turbidity units (NTU).

Richard Alcorn concluded: “In Northern Ireland, an NTU of 2 -3 is considered acceptable. In this project, thanks to innovative approaches, we have achieved a water quality NTU of 0.5.”

Now, convert to water the phrase: ‘the proof of the pudding is in the eating’!

www.lowrybuilding.co.uk

NEW CO-BRANDED PRODUCT RANGE FROM FPT INDUSTRIAL AND PETRONAS LUBRICANTS

FPT Industrial and PETRONAS Lubricants International (PLI) have unveiled their latest innovation: a co-branded range of fluids meticulously engineered for marine, on-road, off-road, and powergenerating engines and vehicles. These new products feature high quality, specific formulations, and consistent performance in all operating conditions.

This partnership is a testament to FPT Industrial and PLIs dedication to innovation and reliability in the lubricants industry, aimed at increasing operational efficiency while concurrently lowering operating costs.

The two brands have combined their expertise to craft lubricants that keep both older and state-of-the-art vehicles moving for longer. The on and off-road vehicles, including trucks, heavy machinery, and power generators, benefit from core features such as temperature control across seasons, reduced friction, and comprehensive cleaning and protection. Each fluid within the co-branded product line undergoes rigorous testing to ensure

optimal performance and durability. Leveraging the opportunity to conduct direct testing on FPT Industrial engines, this range is endorsed by FPT Industrial to uphold PLI’s specified oil drain interval. Specifically engineered to enhance engine durability and extend service life, these products further maximsze uptime and fuel efficiency, minimising unexpected downtime.

Moreover, the PLI-FPT Industrial co-branded product range not only safeguards the engine but also extends its lifecycle, thereby minimising both fuel and oil consumption to maintain lower emissions. This approach aims to reduce the total cost of ownership, allowing owners to maximize returns on their investments.

“We are proud to introduce the PLI-FPT Industrial co-branded product range, a testament to our unwavering commitment to innovation and providing tangible solutions for all applications,” stated Giuseppe Pedretti, EMEA Regional Managing Director at PETRONAS Lubricants International.

“Our collaboration with FPT Industrial

represents our commitment to providing high quality, tangible solutions, and we are confident that our latest range of products will meet these applications.”

“FPT Industrial engine technology has made great strides in recent years, with a particular focus on sustainability and efficiency,” says Sergio Carpentiere, Vice President of Customer Service and Digital at FPT Industrial.

“With this new launch in collaboration with PETRONAS Lubricants International we want to provide to our customers the right tool to maintain this exceptional performance over time and guarantee a full complete product offering for the engine life.”

heavy haulage

DONNELL & ELLIS ON THE LONG AND HEAVY HAUL

For almost three decades, Omaghbased Donnell & Ellis Heavy Haulage has been meeting the needs of Northern Irish companies at home and abroad, delivering local products throughout Europe and bringing in the necessary equipment for local companies to develop their business. Heavy haulage and the transportation of abnormal loads is a complex operation. It requires precision planning and operation, combined with immaculate back office administration to ensure the correct paperwork is in place for each load and each destination. Established in the early 1990s to service the heavy transportation needs of quarry plant manufacturer, Finlay, Donnell & Ellis has handled many large loads, complex paperwork and long routes. Executing such operations is second nature to the Donnell & Ellis team.

EUROPEAN ROUTES FROM THE HEART OF TYRONE

Finlay still accounts for more than half of Donnell & Ellis’ business, although the

company also serves a diverse client base in Northern Ireland and across the continent of Europe, on a delivercollect-deliver cycle that makes every day different for Donnell & Ellis drivers. Whilst return runs often bring varied loads, quarry plant frequently makes up the outbound journey.

“County Tyrone is ‘quarry-central’ in Northern Ireland, with a long and product history of heavy manufacturing”, says Michael Gibson of Donnell & Ellis. “We are very much grounded in its local community and we have particular understanding and expertise when it comes to that sort of equipment. We work regularly with local companies like Sandvik in Ballygawley, which serves the mining, rock excavation and metal-cutting sectors and Telestack in Omagh, again focused on the mining, quarrying and recycling sectors.”

Notwithstanding Donnell & Ellis’ commitment to local and regular, long-term customers, the company also undertakes one-off projects for a wide range of user needs.

“Our long-standing customer base is our

priority, but we will always take on single jobs when we have the capacity. We would never like to see anyone stuck and will always help when we can,” says Michael.

LORRIES TO HAUL AND DRIVER COMFORT

To service its customers, Donnell & Ellis needs a fleet of 30 lorries with extraordinary torque and pulling power. Michael Gibson explains; “We always aim to have 30 lorries in our fleet but, to maintain the best fleet, we will usually sell off some lorries and buy in new stock every year. At the moment we’ve got three brand new Volvo FH16s on order and due to arrive any day now.

“We have trucks in different specifications suitable for varying types of loads and the fleet comprises 65-tonne, 120-tonne and 150tonne hauliers. It’s fair to say that our fleet is dominated by Scania.

heavy haulage

We’ve worked with Scania, particularly the V8 range of models, for a long time and are very happy with the specs, the capacity and the driver comfort. The Scania V8 range, However, we are open to other brands and we’ve been impressed by the Volvo trucks in our fleet.

“We need the right power spec for our lorries but, given that they are most often out on long haul routes, we also value driver comfort so the cab is a very important consideration when buying a new lorry. Customer service and back-up is also important.”

TRAILERS TO CARRY THE LOAD

While a fleet of 30 lorries is ample for Donnell & Ellis’ fleet, a much larger stock of trailers is essential to have the right trailer for each load. The company has over 100 trailers, mostly, but not exclusively, low loaders. The low loaders range from standard, fixed swanneck, extending beams, and 3- and 4-axle trailers.

As Michael says, “Of the 100+ trailers, no two are exactly the same, we have different specifications for differing types and weights of load.

“We work directly with the manufacturers to buy customised trailers, designed and built to our requirements but carrying

the guarantee of the big names in the business, like Faymonville, Nooteboom and Broshuis. Recently, for example, we took delivery of 4 new Faymonville Hydraulic Width Adjuster., as well as four-axle step frames from Rydam Universal.”

DRIVING EXCELLENCE

Donnell & Ellis employs a team of around 30 drivers, in addition to two full-time escort drivers with escort vehicles. Whilst it is are no

legally required qualifications other than a full HGV license to be an abnormal loads driver, Donnell & Ellis takes a proactive approach to building driver skills and competencies.

“Our team of drivers includes many who have a great deal of expertise and experience to offer and we utilise that through an internal mentoring programme so that newer drivers to the fleet can learn on the road with the experts”, says Michael.

heavy haulage

“We also avail of supplier delivered training course for all our equipment, lorries and trailers. Our trailer units are not standard, so the drivers need to be familiar with operation and maintenance on the road.

“When it comes to abnormal loads, the driver has extra responsibilities and needs to be actively involved in loading and unloading as well as transporting. Drivers also need

to be versed in the paperwork involved, be able to route plan, particularly if, for some reason, the load is diverted, and be good communicators, keeping in touch with escort drivers and the office during the operation”, says Michael.

“Where a load involves an escort driver, the journey is a team effort, in terms of a smooth drive and in dealing with any unforeseen circumstances. In short, there’s a fair bit more involved in heavy haulage drives and our team of drivers and escorts is a key to our continued success.”

FOSTERING LONG-TERM COLLABORATIONS

Whilst Donnell & Ellis has a proven track record of excellence in highly specialised

transportation services, long-term relationships are central to its success, whether that is with colleagues in the company, customers or suppliers. Michael Gibson concludes: “We have always fostered strong, long-lasting and evolving relationships at all levels, and this is the key to our success. Our team genuinely works as a team, our suppliers work with us to deliver the best equipment and our customers have total confidence in our capabilities and our trustworthiness is a core element of our business growth and success.”

www.donnell-ellishaulage.co.uk

DO MORE. EARN MORE.

A tiltrotator makes your digging up to 50% more efficient and transforms your excavator to a versatile tool that besides digging, also can lift, pack, sweep, tear and more.

The entrepreneur can therefore take on more jobs and solve them quicker, smarter and also more enviromentally friendly since the resources used in the form of material, fuel and time, will be less.

excavating excellence

ENGCON AND BALLYWARD PLANT SERVICES SHOWCASING BETTER DIGGING POWER AT BALMORAL

Balmoral Show was a very busy event this year, not least for Andrew Badham from engcon and the Northern Ireland dealer, Robert McAlerney and his son, Conor, from Ballyward Plant Services. Plant and Civil Engineer’s Martin Elliman had a chat with them about engcon’s new tiltrotator and other innovations.

There was a good representation of the engcon product range on display at the show, with an EC204 tiltrotator, EC206 tiltrotator, EC214 tiltrotator and EC319 tiltrotator, in addition, to several engcon buckets and other hydraulic attachments at the stand and spread out across the showground.

NEW EC319 STEALS THE SHOW

“The product that generated the most interest at the show was our all-new EC319, which is the first of our new 3rd generation of tiltrotators to be released.”, said Andrew. “This has some unique features like load sensing hydraulics for increased smoothness and improved fuel efficiency, as the tiltrotator only makes a demand on the pump as and when the attachment is used, not constantly.”

Designed for excavators in the 14–19 tonne range, the EC319’s improved efficiency stems from being exclusively designed to work in conjunction

of control system, DC3.

DC3 and its self-learning (AI) configuration system that optimises the configuration between the tiltrotator and excavator, delivering a minimum of 30% increased efficiency compared with the 2nd generation models.

The new model also delivers oil efficiencies. The new valve block has a 60 l/min valve for each function and features two valves for the extra function, which allows the engcon tiltrotators to deliver 120 l/min. What’s more, EC-Oil comes as standard on

well as the bottom, so operators can easily switch between tools from the comfort of the cab.

MG12 GRAPPLE SAW CAUGHT ATTENTION

The other new product that turned a few heads was our new MG12 grapple saw attachment.

Designed for excavators weighing 7 - 12 tonne, the MG12 grapple saw is a powerful tool and a great choice for a range of excavator tasks, especially forestry applications. This saw is a perfect complement to your tiltrotator

spaces, It can also reduce the need to use platforms for tree-cutting and management. Using the grapple saw with the tiltrotator, the operator can cut branches and lower them to the ground safely and securely from the safety of the cab.

MORE NEW ENGON PRODUCTS SHOWCASED

The engcon and Ballyward stand also gave visitors an insight into other new products from engcon, including the DC3 control system, the engcon quick coupler and a new ground compactor.

The new DC3 proportional control system with remote support meets the high demands placed on a modern control system in terms of components such as hydraulics, electronics and software. Together with engcon’s tiltrotators and tool attachments, the DC3 control system creates a better and safer working environment. The app is now

excavating excellence

“TOGETHER WITH THE SUPPORT OF OUR LOCAL DEALERS LIKE BALLYWARD PLANT SERVICES, ENGCON IS CHANGING THE WORLD OF DIGGING BY IMPROVING EXCAVATOR PROFITABILITY, PRODUCTIVITY AND SAFETY ON SITES EVERYWHERE.”

ANDREW BADHAM

axles. The S60 is also available with lifting eye, in addition to the standard lifting hook.

The ground compactor on display showcased a new size in the engcon range of ground compactors to suit the larger excavators in the size class from 19 tonnes with the S70 or S80 attachment.

SUCCESSFUL PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN ENGCON AND BALLYWARD

Ballyward Plant Sales has been the appointed dealer in Northern Ireland for four years now. Back in 2020, Andrew was on an active search for the right Northern Ireland dealer. “This was around the time of the changes in trade between Great Britain, Northern Ireland and the rest of Europe postBrexit. We weren’t sure what barriers to trade might crop up and we wanted someone on the ground with a local support network. Robert was

recommended to me by a mutual contact, who described Robert as ‘a reliable dealer that could help engcon grow in Northern Ireland’ recalled Andrew.

“Having spoken to Robert, I found him to be a very straightforward and easy man to deal with, who was very frank about what he thought the challenges were and how we should proceed if we were to work together. No half measures. He was either doing it or he wasn’t.

“Almost immediately Covid-19 struck, which created a few obstacles to training as most of our team in the UK were put on furlough and getting over to fit the first unit he bought from us posed a few challenges. To overcome this at the time we sought the help of a long-standing dealer from Scotland to assist and fit his EC209 to the Bobcat E85 demonstrator. Gradually the first sales started to come in and then more sales have followed!”

FIRST DIG DAY

Andrew recalled the first successful event in Northern Ireland after the lockdown restrictions were eased. “We organised our first dig day in May 2022 and it was a huge success. In terms of getting to meet Robert and the rest of the team including Conor, who was less involved with the engcon side of things back then. It also generated quite a few sales.

“Since then things have gone from strength to strength. We recently came over to give the team some more technical training on installations and servicing. The team at Ballyward has been a huge asset to engcon in Northern Ireland and has very quickly helped us become the market leader in the region.

THE DEALER PERSPECTIVE

Commenting on working with engcon and the successful Balmoral Show event, Robert from Ballyward Plant Services said: “I am proud to be the appointed dealer for engcon in Northern Ireland. engcon has an excellent, high quality and eminently practical range of products that appeal widely across the board because they offer better, safer and more efficient ways to do multiple tasks.

“The support and training are excellent and, as a dealer, I feel included and involved, which makes me better equipped to do a good job for engcon and my customers. Andrew in particular, is great to work with. We always get the business done but we enjoy a good laugh together too. Balmoral Show has been great

Robert’s son, Conor, has been a fixture at Ballyward Plants Services since he was a toddler and now he’s officially part of the team! The 18-year-old has been working full-time in the company for the last two years, simultaneously completing an apprenticeship.

“Of course, Conor’s always been around throughout his childhood,” Robert said “but it is great to have him in the business full-time now and the four-day stint at Balmoral Show has proved that as well as the mechanical side, he excels in customer-facing roles too.”

hire awards

THE HIRE AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE 2024 IS A FANTASTIC CELEBRATION

The Hire Association Europe’s Hire Awards of Excellence took place on a Saturday evening at Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London, and was attended by a record 358 guests.

The evening’s finalists comprised 56 outstanding individuals, companies and products, across 16 award categories.

From this amazing group of finalists, the judges recognised the incredible standards set and personal achievements,

The winners of the 2024 Hire Awards of Excellence are:

Digital Catalogue of the Year

(Sponsored by Snorkel UK)

ME Hire

Website of the Year

(Sponsored by Fantastic Media)

HSS Hire

Best Use of New Media

(Sponsored by Hire

Certification Services)

Speedy Hire

Diversity & Inclusion Initiative

(Sponsored by Jewson Tool Hire)

Mr Plant Hire

Sustainability & CSR Initiative

awarding some with Highly Commended in recognition of their efforts.

Neil Bravery, HAE EHA’s Chair, made a speech during which he presented the Outstanding Contribution to Hire Award on behalf of the Main Board. This year the recipient was the HAE EHA’s own Director of Certification Services, Carl Bartlett.

Neil explained, “Carl has dedicated more than 35 years of working life to our industry (he’s beaten me by a year!) His policies and procedures have been adopted by like-minded

(Sponsored by JCB Sales)

Speedy Hire

Hire Industry Product of the Year

(Sponsored by Executive Hire Show)

Snorkel UK, S3013 Mini Hire Industry Supplier of the Year

(Sponsored by PSM Plant & Tool Hire Centres)

Niftylift

SafeHire Plant, Tool & Equipment Hire

Company of the Year

Turnover under £10m

(Sponsored by HAE

Insurance Services)

PSM Plant & Tool Hire Centres

Carl Bartlett being presented

Outstanding Achievement Award by HAE EHA Chair Neil Bravery.

hire organisations as far away as Australia and New Zealand. Carl’s dedication to perfection and making sure processes are followed and always done right, and to raising the standards of our industry is second to none.”

SafeHire Plant, Tool & Equipment Hire Company of the Year Turnover over £10m

(Sponsored by HAE Insurance Services)

Sunbelt Rentals

SafeHire Event Hire Company of the Year Turnover under £3m

(Sponsored by Infor (United Kingdom))

Plato Catering Hire

SafeHire Event Hire Company of the Year Turnover over £3m

(Sponsored by Infor (United Kingdom))

Allens Catering Equipment & Furniture Hire

Young Apprentice of the Year

(Sponsored by {SEQUEL})

Ben Behai, Sunbelt Rentals

Apprentice of the Year

(Sponsored by CITB)

Emily White, Ideal Heat Solutions

Workshop Manager of the Year

(Sponsored by HireTrain)

Gary Gibbins, Vp Brandon Hire

Station

Hire Manager of the Year

(Sponsored by Stallard Kane)

Ele Ioannou, Mr Plant Hire

Hire Achiever of the Year

(Sponsored by Point of Rental Software)

Emily White, Ideal Heat Solutions

CP Hire Plant & Tool Hire Northern Ireland specialises in plant, tool, powered access and site cabin hire. Established in 1971 and with seven depots throughout Northern Ireland, our experienced team are on hand to help and advise on the most suitable equipment rental for your project.

CONTINUOUS INVESTMENT KEEPS CP HIRE AT THE LEADING EDGE OF PLANT HIRE

With over five decades behind it, CP Hire remains at the forefront of plant hire in Northern Ireland. The core values of the family firm, founded by the late Norman Hutchinson in 1971 are the secret to CP Hire’s continuing success. This is a company that has extended its family to include all its people and all its customers, with enduring relationships, focused on business relationships that consistently deliver top-quality products and rapid, reliable service.

With seven depots across Northern Ireland (in Ballymena, Banbridge, Belfast, Coleraine, Campsie, Dungannon and Magherafelt) wherever your business is, or wherever your projects are, CP Hire is ‘the one-stop-shop on your doorstep’ to meet your hire needs.

INVESTMENTS FOCUSED ON DEMAND

The company is committed to delivering the widest range of the latest equipment. Managing Director, Andrew Hutchinson says: “We are continually selling on old stock through auction houses, allowing us to reinvest in new stock to keep the

fleet fresh and to ensure we can deliver the latest models to our customers.

“Our fleet renewal is always ongoing. What we buy reflects current trends and changes in market demands along with customer projects and workloads,” continued Andrew.

“However, there are always two constantsour customers’ demand for the best, most

recent and most efficient machinery and for the hire service to be excellent, with rapid response and superlative service in terms of delivery and trouble-shooting and hire fleet maintenance. The fact that we have depots throughout Northern Ireland means that we can deliver excellent customer service, including a one-hour breakdown assistance guarantee.”

NEW EXCAVATORS IN THE CP HIRE FLEET

Investments this year include 30 new Kubota excavators purchased from David Fogie in Limavady. The machines lines out at 3-ton, 5-ton (both mini excavators) and 8-ton. All come with advanced Kubota engines and hydraulic systems that ensure superior performance and operability in working conditions and deliver operator comfort and ease of use with the latest cab fit-out and controls.

The Kubota KX027-4 delivers a digging depth of up to 2.74 metres and features a reduced tail swing, The KX056-5 has a greater digging depth of up to 3.37 metres and features a zero tail swing, making it ideal for work in confined spaces.

The 8-ton Kubota 080-4 2 also features a zero tail swing and delivers a digging depth of up to 4.6 meters. Rugged and reliable, a new 2-pump load sensing system improves the overall smoothness of operations when using the front attachments.

For larger scale works, this year CP Hire has invested in a new Hitachi ZX130-7 13-ton excavator and a Thwaites cabbed dumper from TBF Thompson in Garvagh. Ideal for larger-scale projects, the Hitachi has an operating weight of around 13 to 15 tons and a digging depth of up to 5.7 to 6.5 metres, allowing for various tasks. The Thwaites cabbed dumper is the ideal working companion to the 13-ton Hitachi.

WORKING AT HEIGHTS

As ever, equipment for working at heights remains in constant and upward demand.

“The demand for access equipment hire has been growing steadily, driven by the Work at Height Regulations, more stringent Health & Safety considerations and risk assessment requirements, all with more focus on worker safety,” says Andrew.

“This year so far, we have bought around 60 items of access equipment including electric scissor lifts, and covering various brands, including Sinoboom from Lolex, JLG brand from McCandless and Manitou from Northern Lifts,” says Andrew Hutchinson.”

CP Hire’s purchase of additional Sinoboom slab electric scissor lifts from Muckamorebased Lolex is the third order in two years.

This purchase ranged from the 19ft 810mm wide narrow aisle 1932ME model up to the 33ft 1.2 metre wide 3346E. All are equipped with maintenance-free AGM battery packs, a protective control box cover and a bumper rail which protects the decals from damage.

“All the Sinoboom machines have been extremely reliable additions to our fleet and the support from Lolex has been first-class,” says Andrew.

NIPPING TO THE LOO?

Working on a construction or groundworks site all day can be made easier by having the latest and best equipment but one element of the experience has, historically, lacked finesse. The conventional ‘builder’s toilet’ is not known for its comfort but that is all about to change with CP Hire’s latest investment in, comparatively speaking, luxurious loos. Andrew Hutchinson explains, “Nothing much has changed in the world of construction site portable toilets since David Johnston introduced the idea over three decades ago. I have sourced a new model to take the CP Hire livery and bring site workers an improved experience. They are the most recent model

on the market, roomier, better equipped and, compared to the basic builder’s toilet a deluxe arrival on construction sites!”

CP Hire has kick-started the roll-out by purchasing 300 portable toilet units and two toilet-servicing vehicles. The company has also created a welfare, toilet and accommodation facility in the old Ballymena yard, which is a good central location to deliver right across Northern Ireland.

Andrew continues: “The toilets are bright yellow, giving them stand-out compared to the familiar olive green and blue models. Because they look different, they are easily noticeable on-site and provide a better level of on-site toileting comfort. These new toilets have gone down really well with our customers and their staff.”

SPOTLIGHT ON SPREADTEC SOIL STABILISATION BINDING AGENT SPREADERS NEW TO THE MARKET

BINDING TOGETHER! How one company has successfully transferred its knowledge of Precision Spreading Technology from the Agricultural to the Construction industry with the introduction of SpreadTec Binding Agent Spreader into Ireland. The Irish launch is on the back of its successful market entry into the UK market with its UK distributor Reeds Construction and Engineering.

Geotechnical engineering is subject to new developments; processes are changing and new technologies are gaining more and more influence. The rising costs of materials, reduction of input costs, high accuracy and tracability are all key drivers in the

market with an ever increasing demand for high specification precision spreaders.

Thomas Reed Managing Director of Reeds said “The unique design of SpreadTec enhances the precision of binder applications for soil stabilisation, which leads to impressive gains for civil engineering projects by decreasing wastage of binders to increase soil load bearing capacity and improvement of soil for engineered fill. Accuracy is so important when offering value engineering and environmental gain.

“SpreadTec has already attained a great reputation, working on large scale projects such as HS2, infrastructure schemes including the A465 Heads of the Valleys and industrial projects like Coventry Airport. We

have a solid relationship with Running Gear Ltd, the manufacturers of SpreadTec.”

RUNNING GEARFROM AGRICULTURE TO ENGINEERING

Running Gear Ltd. is a family-owned and operated business manufacturing advanced precision spreading equipment, exporting to countries worldwide from its base in County Mayo, Ireland.

Better known for its AgriSpread brand, the company has been supporting its customers for almost two decades in providing quality built, robust, durable fertiliser, lime and bulk product spreaders. Through an ambitious innovation and diversification strategy, the

company has developed the SpreadTec Soil Stabilisation Binding Agent Cement and Lime Spreader. The range consists of trailed single and tandem axles along with truck/ADT chassis-mounted models available in 10 – 18m3 capacity sizes.

“Manufacturing machinery is in our DNA and our goal is to build the best in the market by investing in the latest engineering technology” said David Murphy Managing Director of Running Gear Ltd.

“R&D projects are driven by market need and, as a business, we need to be open to new ways of doing things and trying new ideas out. We commissioned the first SpreadTec spreader in the summer of 2022 and have continued to refine the technology through testing and listening to market needs. As a company we are nimble and can implement some custom design features if that fits in with the overall scope of works” he added.

SPREADTEC IN NORTHERN IRELAND

Laurence McMullan of McMullan Agri in Ballymoney, a SpreadTec dealer recently sold a TBM-10 Auto (Trailed Binder Meter) to Garret McCormick of McCormick Contracts / Soil-Tec in Ballycastle, Antrim.

“We now have a SpreadTec proving its capabilities on the ground in Northern Ireland, working on stabilising phase of

the new LCC Group New Galvanising Plant in Cookstown” said Garret.

“What really stands out is the SpreadTec technology behind the user interface, which was developed in-house. Traceability is a major part of any project we undertake, we can record and export the data very easily, yet the machine is very operator-friendly. The computerised automatic rate control using hydraulically driven metering wheel floor and auger is so accurate” he added.

SpreadTec has an in-house design team that developed the software and electronic control system which has remote monitoring capabilities. Next steps for SpreadTec is to develop the model range and options over the next few years and to grow its international distributor and dealer network.

For more information contact Terry Reilly, Business Development Manager, SpreadTec, +353 89409189, terry@spread-tec.com

AGRICULTURE AND ENGINEERING COME TOGETHER AT BALMORAL SHOW

Balmoral Show, Northern Ireland’s oldest and largest agricultural event celebrated record-breaking attendance for its 155th annual show this May, held at the Eiken Centre outside Lisburn.

The four days of the show were blessed with mild and clement weather and the crowds flocked to enjoy a day out at the show, with over 120,000 people attending over the four days.

For RUAS group operations director, the show’s success of a year-long planning programme, but she also paid tribute to the weather! “We know that we had just over 120,000 visitors this year, which makes it our biggest show ever,” she said. “We were very pleased, and we could not have asked for any better weather.”

The Balmoral Show is without doubt, a vital showcase for agriculture, agrifood and livestock and equestrian competitions, however, it is also an event that underscores the relationship between agriculture and civil engineering. A host of Northern Ireland plant and equipment companies, that serve both markets, took up a sizable space with a great exhibition featuring many brands of plant and machinery on show.

Plant and Civil Engineer’s Martin Elliman was on hand to capture some moments from Balmoral Show 2024.

INTERMAT 2024: AN EDITION DRIVING PROGRESS AND PROMOTING BUSINESS

With its redesigned offering and format, INTERMAT’s 2024 edition registered over 127,500 visitors over its four-day duration, of which 21% were from outside France and from 130 countries.

A total of 1,065 exhibitors, including 68% from outside France, welcomed a high-quality visitor audience, delighted to witness the industry’s drive in favour of environmental and technological progress. The show acted as a business-conducive catalyst, with a widely acknowledged increase in the proportion of decision-makers present. A third of the visitors came with investment plans to accelerate the low-carbon and digital transition of construction projects. With 30% more contacts per day per exhibitor compared with its 2018 edition, INTERMAT 2024 was the federating point of convergence for all the professionals who came in search of innovation to address the climate and societal challenges faced by construction. Exhibitors and visitors met up in a particularly animated and convivial atmosphere.

AN UNPRECEDENTED MOBILISATION BY THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

The exhibition was opened by the chairmen of the five main construction trade associations in France (DLR, EVOLIS, FFB, FNTP and SEIMAT), united and committed

through the signature of the manifesto “4 keys to support the decarbonisation of construction equipment”.

Adopting the right energy for each use, saving energy, raising stakeholder awareness of CSR and improving the safety and appeal of jobs in construction were at the heart of some highly productive debates staged in the new Industry Forum and Academy spaces. Talks, round tables and special features gave an opportunity to gain insight

into the major issues in the sector in terms of accelerating green and digital transitions.

INTERNATIONAL INNOVATION ON SHOW

This edition was marked by the noticeable presence of major international construction companies. The most-represented countries included Belgium the Netherlands, Italy, Germany, the UK, Finland, North African countries and Turkey. The ReBuild

Ukraine talk addressed all the themes essential for the reinforcement of the Ukrainian nation through reconstruction, representing multiple opportunities for companies, investors and partners.

The New Technologies and Energies hub and the Start-up Village offered a showcase of technology and equipment incorporating new, alternative or renewable energy sources (biofuel, electric, hydrogen), virtual and digital engineering, energy storage solutions and autonomous vehicles.

The multiple machinery demo zones both outdoors and on stands, and displaying all-electric machines indoors, gave visitors a chance to discover the momentum of the latest developments by manufacturers for better safety, productivity and energy efficiency.

WORLD OF CONCRETE EUROPE AT THE HEART OF LOW CARBON CHALLENGES

The exhibition zone and educational forum focussing on the low carbon transition of the concrete sector zone attracted the attention

of nearly one in two visitors. The INTERMAT Innovation Awards rewarded the sector’s efforts to activate all the levers in a push to reduce the carbon impact of materials, processes, technology and equipment.

The 2024 vintage was one of renewal, with a tradeshow redesigned in terms of format and offering, and revolving around four pillars; Innovation, Energies, New Equations and Commitments. The 2024 show succeeded in its goal of collectively providing novel and virtuous products and concepts to professionals, whose pleasure at being able to come together in a convivial climate was clear for all to see throughout the four days of the event!

The next edition will be held in April 2027.

intermat review

INTERMAT INNOVATION AWARDS

INTERMAT has always been a platform for innovation in equipment, machinery and processes for construction and material production.

Over the years INTERMAT has shone a light on this inventiveness by distinguishing the most remarkable initiatives with the INTERMAT Innovation Awards.

This ninth edition pays tribute to equipment, technology, services, solutions or products that contribute to driving progress in the construction, infrastructure and materials industries, and to achieving the major transitions in the sector.

And the winners are…

Earthmoving, Demolition & Transport

GOLD: DYNASET OY

SILVER: DURATRAY

INTERNATIONAL Smart Tray

BRONZE: STEELWRIST Open-S

Roads, materials & foundations

GOLD: BOMAG

SILVER: DMS TECHNOLOGIE GMBH

Excavator Blade Control (EBC)

BRONZE: SUPPLY COMPANY

Pigment in tablet form

Building, civil engineering & Concrete sector

GOLD: BETOLAR Geoprime

Hollow-Core Slab

SILVER: AraNea Composite

Fibers AraNea

BRONZE: SELFBETON

Concrete filling station

Low carbon & Energy Transition

GOLD: MOOG CONSTRUCTION

TerraTech Ecosystem

SILVER: NOVUM TECH

Electrifical system

New technologies

GOLD: TENSTAR SOLUTION

VTS - Virtual Training Space

SILVER: EXCESS ENGINEERING Electric

Actuator -A Hydraulic-Free Option

BRONZE: MOASURE Moasure ONE

Special Awards – Start-Up

HERACLES Robotics

MUODIM

Special Award – World of Concrete PUTZMEISTER e-Mixer iONTRON

DEVELON DELIVERS MAXIMUM IMPACT AT INTERMAT 2024 WITH CORE THEMES OF INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY

DEVELON, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, made its first appearance at the 2024 edition of the Intermat Exhibition from 24 to 27 April 2024 in Paris, France. The Develon stand made a big impact with an industry-leading display of new state-of-theart machines and digital technologies being seen for the first time at Intermat. This included the first demonstration of Develon’s much-heralded Concept-X 2.0 remotely controlled (autonomous) construction equipment solution in Europe, involving the stars of the show - the leading edge DD100-CX autonomous dozer and DX225-CX autonomous crawler excavator.

The stand, covering an area of 2,024 m², was designed around four pillars - Carbon Reduction, Going Green, Compact and Innovation, with the main focus centred around new innovative

machines and technologies that support carbon reduction and wider sustainability to address the world climate crisis.

CARBON REDUCTION AND ZERO EMISSION SOLUTIONS –THE FUTURE ENERGIES AREA

The Develon stand at Intermat highlighted new solutions for carbon reduction in construction, covering both zero-emission and reduced-emission technologies. Premiered at Intermat, the DX20ZE Mini-Excavator is the first mass-produced electricpowered excavator manufactured by Develon. This 2-tonne excavator combines low-noise and zero emissions with the features and performance enhancements that are found on the next generation DX-7 Series family of mini-excavators. Alongside the DX20ZE at Intermat was the 14W-EREV electric concept vehicle, the

most advanced, state-of-the-art machine of its kind. This electric wheeled excavator is designed with a regenerating drive system (eDrive), advanced swing system (eSwing) and eWorking systems to ensure maximum efficiency with zero emissions.

Completing this Future Energies Area of the display was the DL250-FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle), which has a versatile, single platform design that allows it to be equipped with a fuel cell powerpack running on hydrogen, but offers the ability to transition to a BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) by installing a battery pack.

REDUCED EMISSION SOLUTIONS

Develon also showed several reduced emission solutions based on fuel-saving technologies and the use of bio-fuels such as HVO and GTL.

The fuel-saving technologies included the first appearance at Intermat in the Demonstration

area of the company’s Concept-X 2.0 DD100-CX cabless dozer and DX225-CX cabless crawler excavator. The fuelsaving 3D-control system was demonstrated operating the Concept-X 2.0 excavator and dozer, and for the DD130-7 dozer and DX85R-7 mini-excavator.

Significant fuel savings are available via the CVT transmission in Develon’s DL420CVT-7 wheel loader model, which was in the demonstration area of the stand, equipped with the unique ‘Transparent Bucket’ safety system, also being shown at Intermat for the first time. The Transparent Bucket is the first safety system of its type to provide a solution to prevent the danger of blind spots in front of the buckets of wheel loaders.

An additional fuel-saving feature offered by Develon was the Virtual Bleed Off (VBO) hydraulic system (D-ECOPOWER), shown on the latest version of the

DEVELON SHOWCASED THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS AT THE INTERMAT 2024

STATIC

DTL35-7 Compact Track Loader

DD130-7 Compact Dozer

DL80TL-7 Compact Wheel Loader

DX10Z-7 / DX17Z-7 / DX27Z-7 / DX85R-7 Mini-Excavators

DX20ZE / 14W-EREV / DL250-FCEV Zero Emission

DX230WMH-7 Material Handler

DX530LC-7K Crawler Excavator

DEMONSTRATION

DA30-7 Articulated Dump Truck

DX100WR-7 Wheeled Mini-Excavator

DL420CVT-7 Wheel Loader

CONCEPT-X 2.0 Cabless Dozer

CONCEPT-X 2.0 Cabless Excavator

DX530LC-7K 53 tonne crawler excavator in the static display. In addition, Intermat showcased Develonn’s Full Electric Hydraulic (FEH) technology, which is similar to the D-ECOPOWER VBO system and is in effect, a VBO system without pilot pressure lines. The FEH system was installed on the Concept-X 2.0 cabless excavator at Intermat.

GOING GREEN

The Going Green pillar underpinning the Develon stand at Intermat showcased the company’s positioning as the industry’s ‘green’ partner of choice for customers. This is supported by the introduction of identification labels on machines, providing clear communication of their green credentials [such as HVO (Green diesel) compatibility; Bio-oil filled, etc]. It also encompasses Contamination Control offered by Develon with biologic/organic oil provided from the assembly line. Under the Going Green banner, the Develon stand demonstrated the compatibility

of the company’s machinery for use with HVO and Gas To Liquid (GTL) diesel.

COMPACT

A large area of the static display section was dedicated to Develon’s new range of compact equipment, much of which was shown for the first time at Intermat. This included the new DTL35-7, the company‘s first compact track loader model.

The DTL35-7 boasts impressive features that set it apart from its competitors. Visitors also saw Develon’s new DD130-7 dozer model for the first time, offering a wide range of features providing a productive fine-grading solution for residential and light commercial construction projects.

New Develon mini-excavators being shown for the first time at Intermat included the DX10Z-7 1.16 tonne, DX17Z-7 1.85 tonne, DX27Z-7 2.8 tonne and DX85R-7 8 tonne models. All the new models offer increased performance, optimum stability, additional versatility, enhanced operator comfort, controllability, durability,

ease of maintenance and serviceability.

Another compact machine from Develon at Intermat was the DX100WR-7 10.7 tonne wheeled miniexcavator, again being shown, equipped with a tiltrotator, for the first time at the show in the demonstration area on the stand.

digital platform and Develon Fleet Management systems.

The Develon display of compact equipment also included the DL80TL-7 compact wheel loader being shown for the first time at Intermat, part of a five-model range of 3.5 to 5 tonne compact wheel loaders.

INNOVATION

The Innovation theme covered the new line-ups of electric and hydrogen-powered machines including the DX20ZE, DL250FCEV and 14W-EREV machines and the innovative Transparent Bucket system. It also covered digital technologies being displayed on screens and monitors in the main building on the stand, such as the Develon Smart Quarry, Develon DXP

The Smart Quarry Solution integrates all the business processes involved in running a quarry business, from order taking to sales using ICT technology to manage the site and increase productivity with minimal cost and time.

Develon also promoted the latest version of the company’s Develon Fleet Management state-of-theart wireless fleet monitoring system, specifically designed for the Develon range. Providing comprehensive information about machine performance in a dual mode (satellite, Mobile network), this telematics system offers a web-based fleet and asset management solution which is very useful for managing the performance and security of machines and promoting preventative maintenance.

SUSTAINABILITY AND PERFORMANCE GO HAND IN HAND AS BOBCAT DEBUTS ELECTRIC TELEHANDLER CONCEPT AT INTERMAT 2024

Bobcat used INTERMAT 2024 as a launchpad for its TL25.60e electric telehandler concept. Powered by liquid-cooled batteries, the zeroemission machine demonstrates that it is possible to achieve genuinely sustainable operations without compromising performance.

The Bobcat TL25.60e, which is still in development and not yet commercially available, has a rated operating capacity (ROC) of 2.5 tonne, matching the performance offered by its dieselpowered equivalent. With three separated electric motors designed to maximise efficiency, a hydrostatic transmission to boost performance, a maximum speed of 25 km/h and the same super-compact dimensions as the conventional Bobcat TL25.60 model, the cutting-edge electric concept delivers low noise levels, minimal operating costs and impressive versatility.

Serge Boyer, Product Manager for Telehandlers, Bobcat EMEA, said: “Just like its diesel-powered counterpart, the Bobcat TL25.60e has been built with versatility at its core. Thanks to its compact footprint, low noise levels and zero-emission operations, this concept telehandler is suitable for a diverse range of applications, including work on confined job sites and in city centres.”

Vijay Nerva, Innovation Lead, Bobcat EMEA, added: “At Bobcat, we are committed to innovative design that prioritizes both cuttingedge technology and operator wellbeing. Our integration of ergonomics and digitization, exemplified by the transparent T-OLED

screen, allows us to introduce customizable, interactive features without compromising the comfort and spacious design of our cabs. We believe this seamless blend of digital solutions and operator-focused design has the potential to change the future of the construction equipment industry for the better.”

INDUSTRY-LEADING INNOVATIONS

Bobcat is showcased a diverse range of other advanced machines alongside its TL25.60e concept at INTERMAT 2024, including mini-excavators, skid-steer loaders, compact track loaders, backhoe loaders, compact wheel loaders, ground maintenance units, portable power models, material handling equipment and more. In addition to the TL25.60e electric telehandler concept, Bobcat used the Paris exhibition to launch its brand-new PG40 and PG50 generators. The manufacturer also showcased a range of other recently introduced product additions and innovations, such as its M-Series S630 and S650 Stage V skid-steer loaders, PA12.7v compressor, hydrotreated vegetable

oil (HVO) biofuel-compatible units, its updated range of rotary telehandlers for markets in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), and collision warning and avoidance system.

The Bobcat RogueX2 concept loader, which received its world premiere at CES 2024 in January of this year, made its European debut at INTERMAT 2024. This autonomous, allelectric machine has been built as a proving ground for technologies developed as part of Bobcat’s innovation roadmap, accelerating the manufacturer’s progress toward a smarter, more sustainable and connected future.

BOBCAT AT INTERMAT 2024

Usually held on a triennial basis, this year sees INTERMAT return for the first time since 2018 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The show hosted approximately 1000 exhibitors from varied construction-related fields, including equipment, materials and worksite solutions. “INTERMAT has always been strategically important to Bobcat due to its global reach, so it’s great to see the show return after its extended hiatus,” said Jan Moravec, Vice President of Product, Bobcat EMEA.

“We are excited to showcase the Bobcat TL25.60e electric telehandler concept alongside a range of our other ecofriendly and smart technologies because these innovations are perfectly aligned with the exhibition’s sustainable focus. Building on Bobcat’s long-standing investments in sustainable innovation, we are demonstrating that industry-leading performance and environmentally friendly operations can go hand in hand.”

MPANI GOLF DAY 2024

The Joint Industry Golf Day, supported by MPANI, IoQ, Concrete Society, IAT and CIHT was held on Monday 3rd June at the Kingfisher Estate, Templepatrick. Now in its 15th year, the golf day was again very well supported from companies across the construction supply sector. 98 golfers enjoyed the day with the bonus of good weather and excellent hospitality by the staff at the Hotel. Our thanks go to all the sponsors and players who helped us raise £5000 for our two chosen local charities, The Air Ambulance and Tiny Life. See you all again on Monday 2nd June 2025.

Nearest pin at 11th Bryan Magee with Gordon Best.

Longest drive Chris McCullagh with Gordon Best.

3rd team prize Creagh concrete - Colum Donaghy, Tom McKeague, Chris McCullagh, Gordon Best MPANI (Not in picture is Paul Shields).

1st team prize Colas - Ken Hood, Damian Fitzpatrick, Brian Lewis, Peter Collen and Gordon Best MPANI.

2nd team prize Cemcor - Brian McMullan, Raymond Devlin, Damian Curran, Paul Millar and Gordon Best MPANI.

3rd nett Jonny Cole Breedon cement with Gordon Best.

Darren Stewart nearest pin at 4th hole with Gordon Best.

MPANI Fourball.

Tullyraine Quarries Fourball.

Kemek Fourball.

Gibson Bros Fourball.

Dennison’s Commercials.

Neil & Peter Cooke.

Stephen Kelly Manufacturing N.I.

NEW CAT® HYDRAULIC CONNECTING CW COUPLERS FOR EXCAVATORS DELIVER FAST AND SAFE ATTACHMENT CHANGES WITH LESS SPILLAGE

Building on decades of field success with the CW coupler platform, Caterpillar has announced three new Cat® Hydraulic Connecting CW (HCCW) coupler models. Connecting seamlessly to the machine’s hydraulics, HCCW quick couplers allow operators to switch between hydraulic attachments with full functionality in seconds from the safety of the cab.

Compatible with any Cat hydraulic attachment, quick changes with the HCCW give the operator the ability to use the right attachment for the job, increasing overall productivity and tool utilization. Fast attachment swap outs with the hydraulic connecting interface can help save time over static couplers or pin-on attachments. The field-proven CW coupler platform is built to last and keep costs low.

The new HCCW20, HCCW30 and HCCW40 quick couplers work with a range of tool carrier capacities, from 7.5 to 27 tons. Each model offers a standard 10-ton lift capacity, and exclusive Locking Control System feature and sensor technology measure locking

wedge position and indicate coupling status to the operator. Complying with the European EN474 standard, multiple electronic and mechanical measures help to secure the

attachment, even in the event of pressure loss. Visual and audible confirmations inside the cab inform the operator of successful attachment connection.

The new design features enhanced hydraulic flow to reduce hydraulic restriction, minimizing heat build-up and reducing the amount of engine power required for operation. Machined and sized for high-flow performance, the couplings ensure hydromechanical attachments operate to full capability with limited back pressure. Their reliable hydraulic fluid connections help to prevent spills when changing the attachment, while the quick-

disconnect design helps improve the lifespan and facilitates servicing ease.

Customers with existing Cat excavator fleets using CW hinges do not need to retrofit their machines to use the new HCCW quick couplers. Fabricated tools, such as buckets, can seamlessly switch between existing CW and new HCCW couplers. New Hydraulic Coupling (HC) brackets allow the use of existing hydromechanical tools like shears, hammers and grapples with the HCCW.

HYDRAULIC CONNECTING CW COUPLER SPECIFICATIONS

Internally routed hoses in the coupler and bracket protect against damage and reduce overall hose and repair costs. They leverage the trusted quick-coupler platform with the addition of proven, durable and high-performing male and female quick disconnects located in the coupler and the attachment bracket. The cover lid and sealing provide added protection for couplings and prevent hydraulic system contamination.

DEVELON LAUNCHES NEW, EXPANDED DIGITAL PLATFORM

To meet increased demand, DEVELON, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, has introduced the latest iteration of its fleet management system - MY DEVELON: a new digital platform for managing construction equipment.

“Using the MY DEVELON app or on a web browser, customers and dealers can access and manage maintenance and operation data for their DEVELON construction equipment,” says Kevin Lynch, Marketing Communications Manager at Develon Europe.

“Customers can remotely check the status of their equipment and communicate with their machines by sending certain messages.”

NEW FEATURES

Some of the newest features now available on the MY DEVELON platform offer the ability to download service tools and get personalised quotes for parts for DEVELON equipment.

“We provide a menu for customers to request a quote for DEVELON genuine parts from their local dealer,” Kevin Lynch says. “It is a useful resource for customers. They can select the parts they want

to receive a quote on and send it to their dealer. Additionally, customers can subscribe to our exclusive digital services.”

INCREASED TELEMATICS USAGE

More dealers and customers are utilising telematics systems, according to data tracked by DEVELON. Although some customers can be intimidated by the amount of data, DEVELON and its dealers are working hard to develop training programs

that help educate customers on how to navigate the system. This starts with DEVELON dealers using brief, streamlined training materials, which are very effective with sales specialists.

“When a customer purchases a new machine, our dealership sales specialists provide some basic training about telematics with the customer,” says Kevin Lynch. “When the customer leaves with the new machine, the customer has a telematics

profile. The customer can log in and start tracking the new machine immediately.”

One of the most popular features of telematics services today, according to Develon, is the ability to receive codes from machines. Dealers and customers can subscribe to receive notifications when a DEVELON machine requires service. This allows dealers to proactively engage with customers and their machines, thereby optimizing uptime protection.

“Our telematics offering helps keep our customers’ machines working the way they were intended,” Kevin Lynch says. “Dealers and customers can better remotely monitor machines to ensure they are in good health and can schedule routine maintenance to ensure it’s done when it’s needed.”

The MY DEVELON app is available for download from popular app service providers. Current users of the DEVELON Fleet Management system should replace the current app by downloading the new MY DEVELON app. Customers can log in with their existing credentials.

Uisce Éireann completes vital water network upgrade in Milltown and Dundrum

Uisce Éireann, working in partnership with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, has completed a significant project to upgrade and improve the water network in Milltown and Dundrum. The delivery of this important project will support growth and development by increasing the capacity of the existing water network, improving performance and providing a more resilient water supply for a growing population.

The project, delivered as part of Uisce Éireann’s national Growth and Development programme, involved the replacement of 720m of water mains along the Dundrum Road to improve the capacity of the existing water network. It is one of a number of projects that Uisce Éireann has undertaken to support and enable

housing and economic growth in Dublin and the Greater Dublin Area (GDA).

Uisce Éireann Programme Manager, Padraig Hanly, explained: “Uisce Éireann is committed

to enabling communities across Dublin to thrive by continuously upgrading and developing our critical water and wastewater infrastructure and supporting sustainable growth and development. We are delighted to mark the completion of this essential project to increase the capacity of the water network and enable future growth and development.”

Padraig continued: “We would like to thank the community along Dundrum Road and surrounding areas for their continued support and cooperation during construction works.”

Uisce Éireann is responsible for delivering public drinking water and wastewater services for the people of Ireland. We are committed to enabling communities to thrive by continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support sustainable growth and development, providing safe drinking water, and enhancing the environment. To find out more visit www.water.ie

Padraig Hanly.

Leading the Charge Towards Sustainability: McKinstry Skip Hire Ltd Acquires the First Volvo Electric Skip Loader in Northern Ireland

Waste Management company, McKinstry Skip Hire Ltd, has acquired the first Volvo Electric Skip Loader in Northern Ireland. This revolutionary vehicle, supplied by Dennison Commercials Ltd, represents a significant step forward in McKinstry’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy.

The Electric Volvo FE , with four batteries, has a range of up to 275km on a full charge, combining cutting-edge technology with environmental consciousness. With zero tailpipe emissions, reduced noise levels and enhanced safety features this vehicle offers a cleaner, quieter, and more cost-effective alternative to traditional diesel-powered vehicles.

McKinstry Skip Hire’s dedication to environmental stewardship is further demonstrated by the company’s ‘Green Agenda’ initiatives. Notably, they recently installed 1,133 Solar Panels at McKinstry Biomass Ltd, located in Belfast Harbour and installed by Solmatix, solidifying their position as Ireland’s largest biomass provider with a capacity of 0.5 MW. McKinstry’s will be able to process over 100,000 tonnes of biomass annually, and this investment underscores McKinstry’s mission to reduce their carbon footprint and embrace renewable energy solutions.

McKinstry’s Biomass Plant at Belfast Harbour mirrors Belfast Harbour’s commitment to developing a world-leading regional port using cutting-edge technology and sustainable energy solutions.

Gary Hall from Belfast Harbour said, “As part of Belfast Harbour’s ambitious decarbonisation target of achieving NetZero Green House Gas emissions by 2030, we are already utilising 100% renewable electricity, adopting low carbon alternative

fuels in our marine vessels, and electrifying our vehicle fleet and landside assets.

“Collaboration is key to achieving our goals and we congratulate the forward thinking and class-leading approach McKinstry has taken to embracing the local clean energy transition.”

By choosing the Electric Volmo Skip Loader, McKinstry Skip Hire Ltd is setting a new standard for the waste Management industry, showcasing how businesses can thrive while prioritising environmental responsibility. This investment not only benefits McKinstry’s operations but also highlights its leadership in adopting innovative technologies that pave the way for a greener future.

“Volvo Trucks are at the forefront of the drive towards Net-Zero Emissions & we

are delighted to be a part of that journey in supplying the first Volvo Electric Rigid Skip Loader in Northern Ireland”, said Rob Ireland, Sales Director at Dennison Commercials. “We have worked closely with McKinstry Skip Hire Ltd for over 20 years now and we are proud to support their journey towards zero emissions.

“This new vehicle has been meticulously planned over the past 12 months to align with McKinstry’s unique business requirements, including extensive simulation testing across various routes.”

“I am equally encouraged for the future of zero emission vehicles following the news recently published by the Department of Infrastructure (DFI). The DFI will bring forward amended legislation to increase the weight limit for N.I. hauliers to align with the changes introduced in G.B. in July 2023”, concluded Rob.

Darren McKinstry, Managing Director at McKinstry Skip Hire, added: “Purchasing the Volvo Electric Skip Loader was all part of our strategy in reducing our carbon footprint.

Our Biomass Plant based in Belfast Harbour is operating entirely on green energy.

Our offices, material handling processes and now this Skip Loader are all powered through renewable energy sources.

“We believe it is our duty as a responsible Waste Provider to ensure we drive a positive change towards a greener, more sustainable future”.

If you are interested in exploring the benefits of Electric Heavy Vehicles contact the team at Dennison Commercials to learn more and embark on a journey towards sustainable transportation solutions. Call Dennison Commercials on 028 9335 2827

Rob Ireland, Gary Hall and Darren McKinstry.

ECO

ECO

ECO

ECO Lego Blocks

Sustainable

BS3882 Certified Engineered Topsoils

ambassador awards

WISHNI AMBASSADOR AWARDS 2024

WISHNI is a forum made up of representatives from the waste management and recycling industry in Northern Ireland.

The Ambassador Programme is an initiative developed by WISHNI which seeks to recognise health and safety excellence and best practice within the waste industry. Typically, a WISHNI Ambassador has the following characteristics:

• An Ambassador promotes health and safety best practice within their respective organisation.

• An Ambassador leads by example within the industry on matters relating to health and safety.

• An Ambassador engages and actively participates with other partner organisations within the waste industry on matters relating to health and safety and actively participates in forum meetings.

The programme is open to a wide range of organisations, all of which should be associated with the waste industry in Northern Ireland and have an interest in improving Health & Safety.

Entrants this year included recycling companies, landfill operators, local authorities, contractors and other organisations which are part of the wider waste industry.

Each of the 2024/25 Ambassadors demonstrated how they continuously

strive to identify and apply healthier and safer ways of running waste facilities, which are essential if the industry is to achieve its goal of reducing injuries.

Jennifer Stephens right, Linden Haughian, centre left, David Donnelly right. Well done Linden for your award winning student entry.

Well done to Bryson and Danielle Shields for winning a ambassador award for the 6th time. This time for their Occupational Health and wellbeing program.

Jim King chairman of WISHNI hosted proceedings.

Ursula Walsh head lecturer of the Ulster University environmental health program presented on the WISHNI ambassador award program.

Jamie delivered a thought proving presentation based on his award winning submission.

Niall and Shauna pictured accepting an ambassador award on behalf of NWP.

Well done to the Kiverco team for their work to develop a training program.

Congratulations to Belfast City Council for their award.

Well done again to the student ambassadors pictured together. Watch this space, Future leaders!

Chris Platt pictured left receiving an ambassador award on behalf of Re-Gen Robotics for their submission based on the significant milestone of 5 years with no accidents.

Mark McAdoo and David Richardson picking their award on behalf of Mid-Antrim council.

Pictured- Anne Coyle receiving award on behalf of Recon Waste. Jamie Houston receiving the student ambassador award for his winning submission on accident investigation. Also pictured Jennifer Stephens co-chair of WISHNI and David Donnelly Hon. Sec right.

ambassador awards

NISG in support of the event and the fantastic Nicola McCracken in attendance on the day.

Great to see Darlene representing Avenue Recycling.

Thanks to Atlas world for sponsoring the event. Atlas are long time supporters and pictured are Pete and Grahame

Thanks to Amanda Grant and Brian Pryce from HSENI for attending and in particular to Brian for presenting industry specific updates to the WISHNI members.

Pictured Lynne Donnelly on the left and Dara on the right representing event sponsors JMD training.

Great to see Jan and Kathy from the Devine air team on the day.

Lovely to see Paula Brady from Auva certification event sponsors on the day.

Thanks to Quadra who sponsored the event and Kathryn McMath pictured.

enfinium announces proposal for £200m investment carbon capture project

Leading UK energy from waste operator enfinium, has announced it is progressing plans to invest around £200 million in carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology at the Parc Adfer energy from waste facility in Deeside, North Wales, providing vital carbon removals and boosting the green economy. The project could capture up to 235,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) every year. As over half of the waste processed at the facility is organic, installing CCS would enable the plant to take more CO2 out of the atmosphere than it produces.

The Welsh Government’s Carbon Budget makes clear that Wales needs carbon removal solutions to mitigate other polluting parts of the economy to achieve a Net Zero economy.

Opened in 2019 in partnership with the five local authorities that make up the North Wales Residual Waste Treatment Partnership (NWRWTP), Parc Adfer

to find a way to produce carbon removals, or negative emissions, at scale. Installing carbon capture unrecyclable waste and support

Mike Maudsley, CEO of enfinium,

Jim King

Chairman, WISHNI

BRINGING IT HOME

Every morning an unsung hero walks along the promenade (fancy name for the seafront) in Newcastle. Armed with a litter picker, collection trolley and hi-vis, he clears up the debris, left behind by the careless, indifferent holidaymakers who find it easier to throw their empty fast-food wrappers on the ground, rather than carry them a few yards to the nearest bin. Dog poop, beer tins, soft drinks containers of all types are just some of the things left behind. Higher up, inside Donard and Tollymore forests, is a great place to come if you want a free tent. Apparently, it’s cheaper to buy a tent, a few packs of beer and sleeping bags and then leave everything behind than stay and behave responsibly. Some local volunteers collect the rubbish and recycle what they can. The risk to local wildlife is

considerable, and the risk of fire great, but do these idiots care? Regularly, me and the dog walk the mountains, forests and roads in County Down. After weekends, it is common to find fast food containers, drinks containers, building waste, garden refuse and party leftovers strewn along the paths, and roadsides or carefully deposited beside a farmer’s gate. Where, you may ask, is this rant going?

Well, keeping our tourist areas clean and green comes at a cost, some tens of millions of pounds per year, which is paid for by each one of us. If we could redirect some of that spend into our cash-strapped infrastructure, wouldn’t that start to make a difference?

MIGHT THE PROBLEM BE APATHY?

Northern Ireland is a great wee place, full of fabulous people and amazing natural beauty. So, why do we do this to our streets and areas of

natural beauty? Let me put forward an idea – apathy!

Back in 1987, when I joined the Health and Safety Executive (NI), we were introduced to one of the barriers to successful health and safety, which had come out of the Roben’s Report of 1972. You may well know the answer – APATHY!

Yes, it’s great to see some folk taking their litter home, but apathy rules ok! For many, it’s easier to drop it and walk (or drive) off. But apathy, laziness and an upbringing which encourages people in the belief that “someone” will clear up after them is leading to waste not being reduced, recycled or reused. Apathy in the workplace leads to avoidable accidents. Apathy in the environment leads to pollution, unsightly mess, animal and wildlife injuries and costs to the taxpayer.

So “c’mon Norn iron” if we live here, love here.

Please go to your local council website or visit liveherelovehere. org for more information.

I’m with Al, the litter-loathing puppet from Live Here, Love Here - Absolutely ragin’

Photo taken from Liveherelovehere.org webpage

Kiverco Launches New KS520 Model with First Installation at NWH Group recycling & waste management

Dungannon-based Kiverco, renowned globally for designing and manufacturing robust recycling plants, has launched its latest model, the KS520. The first of this new model has been installed in Newcastle for NWH Group.

Building on the success of the KS514 model, Kiverco developed the KS520 in direct response to customer feedback.

The new model features a larger screen, providing greater operational capacity and increased efficiency. This enhancement will enable NWH Group to divert more waste from landfill and recover more valuable materials, boosting their profitability.

The new plant underscores Kiverco’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. It incorporates modular technology that allows The NWH Group the flexibility to adapt to varying waste materials and market demands.

The NWH Group, one of the UK’s leading recycling and waste management businesses, operates ten sites across Scotland and North East England. Kiverco prides itself on working with innovative

waste management companies that want to deliver the best recycling solutions in the industry. This family-owned business shares many values with Kiverco, particularly a dedication to environmental sustainability.

In advance of this recent investment, NWH Group had been operating a used Kiverco plant. Impressed with its strength and purity levels, NWH made the decision to invest

in a new Kiverco KS520 plant, an all-inone recycling solution to keep operations in one place for better efficiency.

The Group’s decision to partner with Kiverco demonstrates its unwavering commitment to reshaping the recycling sector, particularly in Northern England.

Marcus McAlinden, Sales Manager at Kiverco, stated, “We are delighted to collaborate with NWH Group on this project. Their commitment to driving positive change in the industry aligns perfectly with Kiverco’s mission to deliver innovative and sustainable recycling solutions. Our plants are the world’s toughest and built to last—a critical factor in today’s world. NWH Group’s initial experience with a used Kiverco plant gave them the confidence to use Kiverco for their new project.”

Craig Williams from NWH Group added, “Kiverco’s modular plant design offers us the flexibility to adapt to our plant configuration in line with changing business operations. This ensures we can remain responsive to market demands while maintaining high purity and throughput levels.”

Two new Giant G1200’s heading to customers in Cork, from Ballyward Plant. Hitachi ZX26U-6 -

McCann, Omagh sold by TBF Construction Machinery. New Case CX245D supplied by Cowan Bros to Reid Engineering Ltd, Cookstown.

Paul and Chris Gill of George Gill & Sons Construction, Co. Donegal with their SK58SRX from McSharry TRACK.

Crumlin Plant Sales has delivered a new Yanmar C30 track dumper to Hanmar Site Investigation.

PLANT & CIVIL

New Case SR175B supplied by Cowan Bros to Drew Forsythe, Cloughmills.

Tony Doyle, Co. Kilkenny with his new SK75SR-7 from McSharry TRACK.

Brandon Plant & Tool Hire collecting their SY80 - Sleator Plant.

new Ausa D100AHA for Newbridge Hire supplied by Crumlin Plant Sales.

Hitachi ZX225USLC-7 - Niall Curran Crushing and Plant Hire, Galway sold by TBF Construction Machinery.

Another Dieci Agri Smart delivered to Mulchrone Bros in Westport by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

A new Dynapac CC1200VI sold to Charleville Plant Hire by WAC McCandless.

New Case CX145D supplied by Cowan Bros to Peter Murphy Plant Ltd, Dungannon.

MFL Hire has received a new Black Edition Yanmar SV26 machine from Crumlin Plant Sales.

Two new Komatsu WA480-8EO sold to R.J Mitten by WAC McCandless.

SK140SRLC-7 Side Drain going to Ward & Burke, Co. Galway from McSharry TRACK.

Ballyward Plant has supplied Bann Hire with a new Giant G2500Xtra.

Brendan Byrne from Bann Hire with their new SY26 - Sleator Plant.

Navabi Ltd has received a new Giant GT5048 and an Adler sweeper from Ballyward Plant.

Hitachi ZX135US-7 blade with Engcon EC214 S60 EC-OIL tilt rotator & GRD60 gripper - R T D Crawford Ltd, Enniskillen sold by TBF Construction Machinery.

MTL Fencing & Contracting has received a new Engcon EC206bs twin hitch tilt rotator from Ballyward Plant.

SK34SR x 2 and SK50SRX going to FIMA Developments, Co. Kildare from McSharry TRACK.Sean Keenan of Keenan Contracts Ltd in County Down recently took delivery of this new JCB 540-140 Hi-Viz Telehandler.

A new JLG 1350SJP sold to Boles Hire by WAC McCandless.

JCB

Rotating Telehandler

to James Monaghan at P Webster Plant & Tool Hire Ltd.

Machinery by WAC McCandless.

Hitachi 210LC-7 - Crust & Crumb Bakery, Enniskillen sold by TBF Construction Machinery.

Crumlin Plant Sales has supplied Highdell Farms with a new Yanmar SV19. Martin McGrogan from MMG Contracts taking delivery of his SY18C - Sleator Plant.

New Case CX85D supplied by Cowan Bros to Kelly Construction, Donegal.

A new Takeuchi TB260 delevered to William Crother in Belleek Co Armagh by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

New Case SR210B supplied by Cowan Bros to P Keenan Road Surfacing, Knockloughrim.

Two shiny new JCB 540V180 Telehandlers delivered to Farrans Construction.

new Yanmar VIO10 delivered to Mills Contracts by Crumlin Plant Sales.

Hitachi ZX160LC-7 - Eddie Power (JCB Hire) Ltd, Waterford sold by TBF Construction Machinery.

A new Komatsu WA480-8EO sold to Breedon Group by WAC McCandless.

A new Epiroc HB3600 sold to B.P McKernan by WAC McCandless.

SK140SRLC-7 and SK180NLC-11 going to Danny Fitzgerald & Sons, Co. Tipperary from McSharry TRACK.

New Takeuchi TB295W delivered to K-Doc Plants in Donegal by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

AG Wilson taking delivery of SY75 - Sleator Plant.

Package of new JLG scissor lifts and Epiroc rockbreakers sold to Kellys Point Hire by WAC McCandless.

New Case SR175B supplied by Cowan Bros to TTDF Ltd, Claudy..

Crumlin Plant Sales has delivered 2 new Yanmar VIO50 machines to KC Hire.

Dermot MCarthy from D McCarthy Building and Civil Engineering taking delivery of his SY26 - Sleator Plant.

Cherry Picker taking delivery of GS1932 ED - Sleator Plant.

A new Komatsu PC210LC-11 sold to DMF Contracts by WAC McCandless.

Hitachi ZX130LCN-7 with Geith automatic tilting hitch and mulcher attachmentRonan McCann, Clonaslee sold by TBF Construction Machinery.

A second hand POttinger Torro delivered to Wexford by Alan Milne Tractors Newry. New Case CX28D supplied by Cowan Bros to KR Muldoon Contracts, Castlederg.

new messersi TC95 track dumper for WT Hire supplied by Crumlin Plant Sales.

Sean Carr of Donegal Hire takes delivery of 2no. New Yanmar VIO27’s and a New Yanmar VIO50 supplied by Crumlin Plant Sales.

A new Atlas Copco XAS88-7 sold to McCarroll Plant Hire by WAC McCandless.

A clean second hand Hitachi Zaxis 130 delivered to Demesne Contracts by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

SK130LC-11 going to Derek Flynn, Agri Plant Hire, Co. Dublin from McSharry TRACK; sale completed by Conor McSharry, Sales Agent Eastern Region..

SK26SR, SK28SR and SK50SRX going to Careys Plant & Tool Hire, Co. Mayo from McSharry TRACK.

New Case CX145D supplied by Cowan Bros to Colin McGowan, Enniskillen.

Brendan Dunn has picked up the new Messersi TC50 from Crumlin Plant Sale.jpeg

New Dieci 17m and new Takeuchi TB350R delivered to LR Kennedy in Craigavon by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

Ballyward Plant has provided C&P Flanagan with a new Engcon EC214s twin hitch tilt rotator system.

McMullan Agri has sold and delivered one of two Bailey Bespoke Low Loaders to McClelland Tree Services in Ballymoney.

DISTRIBUTOR

Ammann rollers & compaction equipment, Ausa mini dumpers, Beton concrete vibratory equipment, Radiodetection cable and pipe detection equipment, Hycon hydraulic power packs and tools, Rotair tools and compressors, Yanmar mini excavators. 90a Blackisland Road, Annaghmore, Portadown BT62 1NH Tel. 028 3885 2540 Fax. 028 3885 2541 E: info@crumlinplantsales.co.uk

Digger Hire • Rockhammers • Rollers

Mob: 07860 704502 Email: info@dandds-contracts.com UNDERGROUND

90a Blackisland Road, Annaghmore, Portadown BT62 1NH Tel. 028 3885 2540 Fax. 028 3885