16 Liebherr Showcases Next-Gen Mining Power: The PR 776 G8 Dozer and LiReCon System
18 Peter Fitzpatrick Ltd Pioneering Sustainable Quarrying with CDE’s Innovative Wash Plant Solution
24 Finning Supplies CEMCOR with Ireland’s First Cat 988 XE Wheel Loaders to Power Quarry Operations in Cookstown
44 JCB: FUEL YOUR SUCCESS - Save up to £2000 each year on your fuel costs
55 Ireland's New C&D Waste Regulations: Driving Circular Economy and Sustainable Construction Practices
View From the Cab
12 JCB Unveils Latest Additions to Next Generation Line: 25Z-1 and 26C-1
35 Genie ZX-135/70 Boles Hire Expands Fleet with Genie ZX-135/70 Boom Lift, Supplied by Sleator Plant
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Spotlight On
35 Working at Heights
55 Recycling & Waste Management
70 Attachments
Regular Features
22 Gordon Best, Regional Director, MPANI - Key Developments in NI Infrastructure: Executives Programme for Government, NI Water Challenges, Roads Funding Crisis, and Industry Consolidation
26 Karen McShane, Immediate Past President of CIHT - Infrastructure in Focus: Addressing Congestion, Water Supply, and Economic Growth Amid Budget Constraints
75 Jim King, Chairman, WISHNI Enhancing Safety in High-Risk Areas: Practical Solutions to Separate Pedestrians and Vehicles
Sales & Services
93 Plant Sales
96 Buyers Guide
Welcome to the October-November edition of Plant and Civil Engineer, which is my last edition as editor. I have thoroughly enjoyed working on this magazine; it has been my favourite title in over three decades of being a pen for hire.
This edition, I’ve been busy at home too, with ‘my digger man’ back to lay blinding on the hardstanding and a tree felled, which was so fascinating to watch I’ve shared the story.
As ever, this edition is packed with great content, including Martin Elliman’s coverage for the JCB press event that unveiled a host of new products from security tags to crawler excavators.
We’ve got the latest news on attachments, working at heights, crushing and screening, and recycling and wastes management. Check out our two View from the Cab features and stay updated on current issues with our columnists, Gordon Best, Jim King, and Karen McShane.
Next time, we’ll feature the PCE Awards winners and look at winter maintenance and mobile quarrying, recycling, and earthworks equipment. If you’re in those sectors, make sure to share your news and product insights.
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, simply subscribe on our website so you don’t miss out. It’s free!
Emma Cowan Editor
Mobile: 07921 787686
Email: pceeditor@4squaremedia.net
& Civil Engineer
4SM (NI) Ltd is part of the North West News Group
HAE Crime Portal goes live to tackle theft and fraud in the hire sector
Hire Association Europe & Event Hire Association (HAE EHA) has launched a new crime reporting portal as it calls for vigilance after the clocks go back for winter. Darker mornings and evenings typically trigger an increase in criminal activity, impacting the construction and hire sectors.
Through the portal, members can inform the Hire Association about fraudulent hires, thefts, and attempted thefts, helping to alert other members about any activity in their area and safeguard themselves against trends or tactics that may be apparent.
The HAE EHA team will moderate the portal and share reports with key partners, including the police. Crimes should still be reported to police in the usual way, with fraud additionally reported to Action Fraud and insurers notified of all losses.
Construction and agricultural machinery theft has increased by 200 per cent since February 2022, with global events, like the war in Ukraine, driving up demand for stolen goods of this type. Darker conditions
because of the clocks going back typically attract crimes of this sort, as visibility is significantly impacted, making the sector a prime target for criminals. At the same time, the equipment hire sector is experiencing a huge spike in fraudulent hires. We are working with partners to update guidance on how to reduce the risk of being a fraud victim.
A report published by NCATT and CESAR revealed that the total value of tools and equipment recovered from the sector in the first quarter of this year alone was almost £700k. The report also
shared that 32 arrests had been made and 127 items recovered in Q1 2024, with some as far afield as Romania and Italy.
Mark Bradshaw, public affairs manager at HAE EHA, said:
“I am delighted that we can launch this portal to better equip our members to tackle the spread of criminal activity and to share information about prolific offenders. At HAE EHA, we want to ensure that our members feel empowered to tell us about the criminal activity they have experienced. Companies should still report crimes to their
local police and, additionally, fraud to Action Fraud.”
Superintendent Andy Huddleston, head of NCATT and of the National Rural Crime Unit, said:
“The National Construction and Agricultural Theft Team (NCATT) finished its first year of operation with £6.2M in seizures of stolen machinery from criminals. For the first half of this year, the team are matching this with over £3M in recoveries, but crucially, we are seeing more arrests and, with the support of the CESAR donor board, including HAE funding support, the team now has a financial investigation capability.
“Within four weeks of the funding being approved, the first financial operation resulted in the freezing of £3.2M in criminal assets following an investigation into the theft of 53 machines.
“The Hire Association’s threeyear commitment to help fight plant equipment theft and fraud is absolutely crucial to us continuing this work and targeting construction machinery thieves.”
HAE EHA members can access the HAE EHA Crime Portal via www.hae.org.uk/crimeportal
Women in Plant
In 2023 CITB NI welcomed its first cohort of trainees to the Women in Construction plant operator programme. This fully-funded pilot training in partnership programme provided 12 women, from across Northern Ireland, the opportunity to gain recognised plant operator qualifications for two types of plant machinery, a Construction Skills Register (CSR) card, and health and safety training.
CITB NI and The Women in Construction Network have been actively working together, raising awareness of the career options available for women in construction as well as encouraging women into the industry.
Workplace Health: Exposure to Dust
The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) will be carrying out an inspection campaign focusing on dust exposure across Northern Ireland Quarries, Concrete and Private Waste Premises from late October 2024 through to the New Year.
HSENI inspectors will be visiting premises to ensure that dust exposure is being adequately controlled. Inspectors will be checking that operators have adequate procedures in place to reduce dust exposure so far as reasonably practicable and reviewing the measures in place to ensure work activities can be carried out safely.
The focus of this inspection will be to carry out a dust exposure inspection to include:
• Ensuring that welfare facilities, vehicles and control rooms are kept in a suitable and sufficient condition.
• Checking that exposure to dust has been adequately assessed.
• Reviewing the measures in place to reduce employees exposure so far as reasonably practicable.
The industry resource sheet can be downloaded by scabbing the QR Code here or at https://www.hseni.gov. uk/health-exposure-to-dust
With the clocks turning back an hour for winter, the sun sets earlier, and crimes against the hire industry go up.
Rachel Dorovatas CITB NI welcomes trainees to the first Women in Plant Programme.
Creagh Concrete Products Ltd. announced as one of Ireland’s Best Managed Companies 2024
Creagh Concrete Products Ltd was named one of Ireland’s Best Managed Companies at the recent Platinum Awards, the leading business awards programme led by Deloitte. The company, which demonstrated superior business performance for the seventh year, was recognised at an awards ceremony in the RDS on Thursday, 19 September.
This year, Deloitte recognised 129 indigenous companies at the awards, representing 28 of the 32 counties across the island of Ireland. The network of companies has a combined turnover of more than €15 billion and employs over 45,000 people across a range of sectors, from technology and healthcare to construction.
A thorough judging process precedes the recognition each year, evaluating the entire management team and the business strategy of each company. The judges examine a wide range of areas when assessing Ireland’s top privately-owned businesses, such as a business’ environmental, social and governance standards, strategic planning and talent strategy. This year, 13 companies entered the list for the first time. As a Platinum Award winner, Creagh Concrete Products has spent 7 years on the list, moving up to Platinum status.
A Testament to The Creagh Team
Commenting on the award, Seamus McKeague, CEO, Creagh Concrete. said: “Achieving platinum status at Deloitte Ireland’s Best Managed Companies Awards is a testament to the unwavering dedication and innovation of the entire Creagh team.
JUDGING PANEL
This milestone reflects our commitment to excellence, strategic growth, and the pursuit of continuous improvement. We are immensely proud of what we have accomplished together, and this recognition reinforces our determination to continue leading the way in the construction industry.”
Brian Murphy, Lead Partner for Ireland’s Best Managed Companies Awards Programme, said: “The Irish economic growth story has been extraordinary, and we see this evidenced in the success of Irish indigenous businesses and the confidence shown by Best Managed Companies. Ensuring Ireland’s entrepreneurs and the companies they start get the support they need to grow and scale is crucial.”
Frank Ryan, former Chairman of the Board of IDA Ireland and Chair of BMC judging panel
Cathy Bryce, Managing Director, AIB Capital Markets
Ellvena Graham OBE, Non-Executive Director & Chair of Tourism Northern Ireland
Feargal Mooney, Non-Executive Director and former CEO of Hostelworld
Lionel Alexander, Chair Intact Software and Non-Executive Director
Orla O’Gorman, Non-Executive Director and former Head of Listing at Euronext
Professor Anthony Brabazon, Dean of UCD Michael Smurfit Business School
Sarah Murphy, CEO of Business Post
Cathy Bryce, Managing Director, AIB Capital Markets, said: “AIB is proud to be the new lead sponsors of Ireland’s Best Managed companies. One of AIB’s core ambitions is to support Irish companies and their management teams in sustainable growth and development, something which is fully aligned with the goals of the BMC programme.”
A total of 116 companies requalified as a Best Managed Company. 19 of these achieved Gold Standard (four years as a BMC) and 12 achieved Platinum Standard (seven years as a BMC). Fexco won the Family Business Award in association with the Family Business Network.
13 NEWLY QUALIFIED COMPANIES
Active8 Solar
Energies
Ashdale Care
Coen Steel Limited
Ethos Engineering
MCO
Mergon Group
Mivan
Mowlam Healthcare
S&W Wholesale
Sisk Group
United Hardware
Western Motors
Writech
L_R; Diarmuid Dallat, Francis Purvis, James McKeague, Patricia Donnelly, Seamus McKeague, Mary McKeown, Joan Belton, Fergal McTague and Nicky McKeague.
The real steel deal
Manoeuvrability, speed, agility and power. It’s a Liebherr. Job done.
GB-NI trade – RHA makes recommendations to NI Secretary
The RHA has outlined its key recommendations to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
In a letter to Hilary Benn,the Association expressed deep concerns over significant operational costs, administrative burdens, and a lack of clarity on business-to-business deliveries.
RHA called for processes to be simplified, including on Just-In-Time goods, and for the industry to be involved in reforms on GB-NI trade.
Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, said: “We are committed to working alongside you to help produce durable solutions that work for all and enhance Northern Ireland’s economy - whilst maintaining supply chains and minimising the impact on business and consumers.
“The role of hauliers is critical to successful trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and a robust and
efficient GB-NI supply chain is crucial to the UK economy.”
He noted the Secretary of State’s recent comments that there will be minimal disruption with ‘a combination of mitigations, derogations and the operation of the Windsor Framework in good faith. But he stressed that this hasn’t been the industry’s experience to date, and there are real concerns about the steps businesses must go through to send certain goods from GB to NI.
“We are concerned that this will worsen with the changes due in March 2025,” he added and asked the Northern Ireland Secretary for a meeting to discuss the issues and the RHA’s recommendations.
Meanwhile, the Government has confirmed that they “will not proceed with the introduction of ‘not for EU’ labelling in Great Britain on a mandatory basis on 1 October 2024.
“At the same time, we will develop legislation to apply ‘not
for EU’ labelling in Great Britain in the future in a targeted way, if there is evidence of need.”
THE RHA’S RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE NORTHERN IRELAND SECRETARY IN FULL:
• Strengthening stakeholder engagement to include road haulage operators in discussions on GB-NI trade, including any further reform to the Windsor Framework.
• Providing exemptions for JustIn-Time (JIT) goods, including a new declaration category.
• Eliminating the £2 million threshold for manufacturers and providing an exemption or easement for businesses who guarantee non-EU destinations for consignments.
• As part of the new Government’s wider reset of EU relations, change the default position from at risk to not at risk and require businesses to declare if their goods should be subject to customs entries.
• Remove the requirement for United Kingdom Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS) and instead require the affected ‘at risk’ business to create Simplified Frontier Declarations. For all other goods, a simple declaration of what is on the lorry should suffice (as has been happening for parcel movements with fast parcel operators to date).
• Remove all the border declarations and move to a simplified business reporting model that uses either an Inward Processing Customs model or takes data from the intrastats already being submitted for customs exposure. Consumer movements with a delivery address in NI should all be considered free of any customs obligations on behalf of sender or receiver. This would level the playing field again across the industry and remove the need for the Trader Support Service (TSS).
Henry group strikes a decade of Platinum success at Deloitte best managed companies awards
Magherafelt-based Henry Group Ltd has once again had its excellence acknowledged, having been awarded Platinum Standard at the Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards 2024 for the 10th consecutive year.
The Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards celebrate organisational excellence and leadership across various industries, recognising businesses that go above and beyond to foster sustainable growth, positively impact their communities, and build long-term value.
With offices across Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Henry Group is a leading construction company specialising in delivering innovative and high-quality projects across various sectors, including education, healthcare, and commercial developments.
Ian Henry, CR Director of Henry Brothers, said: “Requalifying at Platinum Standard for the 10th consecutive year is a remarkable achievement and testament to our unwavering commitment to our people, planet, and the places we serve.
“At Henry Group, we believe in being Altogether Stronger, striving not only
to consistently deliver the highest standards of service but also to make a lasting, positive impact on the environment and our communities.
“This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to driving meaningful change and consistently pursuing excellence in everything we do.”
Earlier this year, Henry Brothers received a King’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development, further cementing its position as a responsible business that strives to minimise its environmental impact while maximising positive social and business outcomes.
Ian added: “Henry Group is honoured to have received this accolade, and we look forward to continuing to deliver the best results for every client, every time.”
Introducing new HSENI affiliate
The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland, the lead body of the Farm Safety Partnership (FSP) group has welcomed its latest Affiliate.
Julie Brown (right), representing the Rural Health Committee at the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, formally joined the group (22 October), which is made up of key stakeholders with an interest in farm safety.
FSP aims to increase awareness of farm safety and to reduce work-related fatalities and injuries on Northern Ireland’s farms. To find out more about the work of FPS visit: www.hseni. gov.uk/articles/farm-safety-partnership
Northern Tree Services crew tackles a problematic pine
Plant and Civil Engineer
editor Emma Cowan has been discovering the fascination of tree felling.
One BIG fir tree. Electric lines running through it. A windy location.
When my husband and I decided the big fir tree needed to come down, we did the usual thing…. Google it! That’s how we found Lisburn-based Northern Tree Services. Adam came to our site, looked at the problem and agreed to take on the job.
Adam is a fully qualified tree surgeon and preserving trees is a big part of his job. He said, “When it becomes necessary to remove a tree, Northern Tree Services is experienced in dismantling, rigging, and crane-assisted felling. We have the expertise, the insurance and the equipment to do the job safely and well.”
Adam agreed with us that it would be safer and better to take this big boy down. He gave us a quotation, completed all the paperwork, and liaised with NIE
to take out the power and ‘the day’ was set for 18 October 2024.
Prime Time Viewing
On the day to fell, I got a couple of hours writing done before the NIE engineers and the Northern Tree Services crew arrived. With the power down, I wasn’t sure what to do all day. In the event, it was one of the most fascinating days in years, just sitting in my living room watching it all unfold.
Kitted up, with a chainsaw hanging on his belt, Adam did all the work on the tree. Starting at the bottom, he removed the small branches to clear a climbing route up the trunk. His two colleagues fed the branches and foliage into the Schliesing 235 MX woodchipper. Adam gradually climbed the tree, pausing to adjust the ropes and to shape footholds from branches he had removed. A few metres from the ground, the main trunk split into two, and he worked each in turn, with the men below pausing their work
and moving to a safe distance as the larger branches came down. Finally, it was time to tackle the trunks. More ropes came into play, with Adam carefully tying one rope above the planned cutting point while the other secured his working position below it. Standing well back, his colleagues worked the upper rope from the ground, ensuring it fell in the right direction.
Finishing Touches
Taking the tree down was three-and-a-half solid hours of climbing, securing and sawing each section. The skill, strength and staying power were amazing and a privilege to watch. Back on the ground, the work wasn’t done. Now, the team worked together with chainsaws, including a very long-bladed saw, to cut the large branches and slice the trunk into workable pieces. Finishing the work of drying out the timber and turning it into logs is the next job, and that one’s down to us.
About The Schliesing 235 MX Woodchipper
The 235MX-D is the all-round machine in its category and can handle almost any challenge in wood cutting and landscaping. Its robust construction and easy maintenance make it a reliable partner with a universal range of applications. Powered by a liquid-cooled 4-cylinder Kubota diesel engine and featuring power grip feed rollers and a discharge chute, this machine works effortlessly with branches up to 19cm in diameter.
(L-R) Harry Sinclair Chair of Farm Safety Partnership, Rachel Hamill HSENI Inspector (Agricultural Team) and Julie Brown– Rural Health Committee at School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast.
JCB MINI AND MIDI MAGIC WITH THE LAUNCH OF TWO NEW MODELS
BY DAN GILKES
JCB is expanding its Next Generation line of mini and midi excavators with the launch of two 2.5-tonne models.
The 25Z-1 is a zero tailswing machine, while the 26C-1 offers the benefits of a conventional tailswing. That said, both machines have the option of a further 120kg bolt-on counterweight section that increases tailswing by around 100mm if the customer prefers. This aids stability if the machine is regularly used for heavy lifting.
Both models weigh in at around 2.5 tonnes, with the 26C-1 the heaviest at 2,675kg. That means that either of these mini machines can easily be carried, with three buckets and a mechanical quick-hitch, on a 3.5-
tonne trailer behind a large van or a 4x4. This operating and transportation weight will make the two mini excavators popular with utilities, plant hire and contractors.
NEXT-GEN CABS AND ALL-NEW DIG END
Despite the zero tailswing layout of the 25Z1, both machines share the same spacious Next Generation cab. Constructed of robust steel panels and easy-to-replace flat glazing, the cab door can be locked open within the profile of the machine, reducing the risk of damage. Equipped with a cab heater, the ROPS/TOPS structure will be available with an air conditioning option later this
year. Alternatively, either model can be specified with a canopy if preferred. The minis use a completely new dig end, produced in response to customer input. All of the hydraulic hoses pass through the main boom, reducing the risk of catching, and the colour-coded hoses have bulkhead couplings to make it easier to change a damaged hose if required. Having the hoses inside the boom, which is, itself, slimmer than on the previous model, also improves the view into the digging area. The LED work lights are also mounted inside the boom structure.
BUCKETS, BOOM AND RIGHT ON TRACK
A factory-fit quick-hitch is available as an option and JCB has designed a new range of lightweight buckets for the machines. These use the same 35mm pin diameters as the outgoing model, allowing customers to upgrade without having to replace their attachments. A heavy-duty bushed kingpost further strengthens the dig end. The main boom is 280mm longer on the 26C-1, as its conventional layout allows increased digging and lifting without compromising stability. Both machines are offered with a choice of 1,100mm or 1,300mm dipper lengths.
A 48lpm high-flow auxiliary hydraulic supply is standard, while a 25lpm low-flow circuit is available as an option. Main boom and dozer cylinder guards come as standard, and customers can opt for additional guards on dipper and bucket cylinders. A revised
dozer blade delivers improved material rollover, and there is the option of a 210mm longer dozer for those who like to dig to the blade. New track motors deliver improved tractive effort, and the machines are available with 300mm rubber tracks or optional 250mm rubber tracks. As with other Next Generation models, there are nine sturdy tiedown points around the machines, so there should be no need for transport drivers to throw chains or straps across the rubber tracks when moving the machines.
POWER DESIGN FOR MAINTENTANCE AND PERFORMANCE
As mentioned, the upper structure uses sturdy steel panels and doors all around. The fixing bolts for all panels are the same, so service engineers only require
one socket to remove any panel. Both models are powered by a Stage V Kohler diesel engine developing 18.4kW (24.7hp). The engine meets both EU Stage V and the Tier 4 Final emissions standards with no requirement for a Diesel Particulate Filter or any exhaust after-treatment.
view from the cab
The engine drives a variable displacement, load-sensing, electro-proportional hydraulic system. A new valve block provides improved flow sharing for multi-tasking at lower rpm. Both the engine and the main valve block have been relocated for easier access and all filters and fill points are easy to get to on the right-hand side of the machines. The minis also have a removable floor plate that provides access to the valve block.
IN THE CAB
Once in the cab, both side windows can be opened to suit operator preference. The lower windscreen section can be clipped inside the upper section, which can then be stored in the cab roof, providing an improved view to the digging area. The suspension seat is comfortable, and the operator can raise and lower the armrests for enhanced comfort when working the proportional joysticks. The 2.5-tonners use the same 4” main screen as the larger 3.5-tonne models, with a rotary
controller providing movement through the menus. The screen can also be used to set hydraulic pressures and the percentage of hydraulic flow for up to 10 powered attachments. Service engineers can access diagnostic information through the screen’s menus during regular maintenance too.
FILLING THE FINAL GAP
The 25Z-1 and 26C-1 are important additions to the Next Generation line-up for JCB, filling the final gap in that revised range other than the ultra-compact Micro. More importantly, for those customers looking to tow a mini excavator to and from site, the two machines offer the largest capacity that can be carried behind a van or 4x4, making them a popular choice in many industry sectors. With a robust build quality and an impressive specification, JCB’s 25Z-1 and 26C-1 offer a big step forward from their 8025 ZTS and 8026 CTS predecessors.
www.dennisons.co.uk/jcb
SEARCH WORKSHOP SUPPLIES: BEHIND SOME OF THE BEST WORKSHOPS ACROSS THE COUNTRY
Drawing on over 40 years of experience, SWS are the ‘go-to’ supplier for many quality workshop facilities.
The fitting-out of a workshop is not something that is purchased on a weekly, monthly – or even annual basis. It’s an investment for now, and for the future. And like any other investment – careful consideration will have been given to it before commitment. Is it safe? Will there be the return that’s looked for? Is the provider a ‘high performer’ with a solid track record?
All very sound questions. And they all need asking – particularly when the fit-out of a workshop is under consideration. SWS are uniquely placed to give
solid, honest answers to all these questions. And many more that could be asked. Providing the complete fit-out package from an initial siteappraisal, through installation and
onto the training, maintenance and certification – they have the experience, the expertise and the product to ensure there’s that healthy return on investment that’s looked for.
Drawing on a selection of quality providers in the industry, including Stertil Koni, VL Test Systems, Samoa and Majorlift provides an assurance that if it’s the best that’s looked for – SWS can provide.
dozers
LIEBHERR PR 776 G8: ENGINEERED FOR EXCEPTIONAL EFFICIENCY
Liebherr has presented its flagship mining dozer, the PR 776, in the 8th Generation in full spec for tough mining and quarry operations at MINExpo 2024. This state-of-the-art machine was displayed alongside the Liebherr teleoperation system (LiReCon), enhancing comfort and safety.
The PR 776 G8 further expands Liebherr’s successful 8th generation crawler dozer. Together with the new PR 766 G8, introduced at the beginning of 2021, and the smaller PR 756 G8, Liebherr thus offers a comprehensive range of cutting-edge mining dozers.
As the only mining dozers featuring a hydrostatic travel drive, the Liebherr fleet offers best-in-class efficiency for customers. Combining powerful Liebherr diesel engines with the standard ECO mode allows operators to choose between high performance and maximum efficiency at any time.
With an average of 38 litres of fuel burnt per hour, Liebherr’s flagship PR 776 sets the benchmark for efficient dozing in the mining industry. The availability of new assistance systems for these machines increases efficiency and ease of use.
OPERATOR ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS
The PR 776 Generation 8 crawler dozer integrates advanced Operator Assistance Systems (OAS), previously available only on smaller models. There are two levels of assistance systems: ‘Free Grade’ for active blade stabilisation during fine grading and ‘Definition Grade’ for automatic blade
positioning when creating 2D grades. With the ‘Auto Blade Pitch’ assistance system, the operator can save and call up three blade positions at the touch of a button: (1) perfect material penetration, (2) optimum material transport and (3) rapid blade clearing at the end of the push path. The assistance systems of the PR 776 G8 increase productivity and efficiency and enhance operator comfort.
ROBUST COMPONENTS FROM IN-HOUSE PRODUCTION
Liebherr diesel engines have proven their worth in construction equipment worldwide for decades. Developed for the harshest operating conditions, their robust design and cutting-edge technology ensure maximum operational reliability and longevity. The triedand-tested Liebherr hydrostatic drive system eliminates high-wear components such as gearboxes, steering clutches or service brakes. Instead, high-quality hydraulic pumps and motors operate virtually wear-free, offering exceptional operational dependability. Liebherr offers numerous factory-fitted, field-tested adaptations for its dozers to accommodate various environmental temperatures.
MAINTENANCE MADE EASY
Optimal service accessibility and extended maintenance intervals are key features. Centralised maintenance points, wide-opening access flaps and engine compartment doors, a standard tiltable operator’s cab and an optional swing-out fan for cleaning facilitate quick maintenance access and straightforward servicing of the new Liebherr
dozer. The new PR 776 G8 boasts particularly long change intervals for operating fluids such as hydraulic or engine oil. When using Liebherr Plus oils, these intervals can extend up to 8,000 operating hours, depending on the application and with regular checks.
Liebherr mining dozers provide first-class cabin comfort. Operators appreciate the convenience and simplicity of a single joystick. Safety is enhanced via 360-degree blade and ripper visibility, provided by large panoramic windows and integrated ROPS / FOPS in the cab structure.
READY FOR THE FUTURE: LIEBHERR REMOTE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR DOZERS
In a hostile work environment, Liebherr Remote Control (LiReCon) boosts operators’ or machines’ safety, comfort and productivity. The system is suitable for all dozer applications. It consists of the Liebherr Remote Control teleoperation stand; a state-of-theart operator workspace including all required controls, and onboard dozer installations such as cameras for all angles and views, microphones for recording machine sounds, radio link receiver and transmitter.
LiReCon allows fast shift changes between operators and consequently reduces idle and downtime. As the operator is no longer tied to the machine, it also enables customers to reach new extraction areas in hazardous zones, thus extending the range of applications for Liebherr mining dozers.
PETER FITZPATRICK LTD FUTUREPROOFS AN D EXPANDS WITH CDE INVESTMENT
Peter Fitzpatrick Ltd, a family-owned quarrying and contracting company based in County Down, Northern Ireland, has been a key player in the quarry and asphalt industry for over fifty years. From its modest beginnings in the early 20th century, the company has grown into a dynamic business serving a broad customer base across various sectors. Recently, Peter Fitzpatrick Ltd collaborated and invested with CDE to implement a cuttingedge wash plant to address the growing issue of excess crushed rock fines (CRF) and blinding from their greywacke processing operations.
Peter Fitzpatrick Ltd has historically faced challenges managing the by-products of its quarrying operations. The primary issue was the accumulation of excess CRF and blinding material, which had been stockpiled with a view to future processing. As natural sand reserves become increasingly scarce, the need to efficiently process and repurpose these by-products became more pressing. The excess material took up valuable space within the quarry and posed environmental and operational challenges. Additionally, the company recognised an opportunity to transform this by-product into a saleable manufactured sand, which could alleviate some of the pressure on natural sand resources.
Paul Fitzpatrick, Managing Director at Peter Fitzpatrick Ltd, highlighted the specific problems: “The fine dust, 4mm material was becoming an issue. It started to take up a huge footprint within the quarry, and we wanted a solution to deal with that by-product. One of
the more obvious things we were looking to address was how to turn it into sand.”
COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTION FROM CDE
CDE proposed a comprehensive solution to address the challenges faced by Peter Fitzpatrick Ltd.
The 130tph solution centred around the installation of a new washing plant that included the M2500 modular washing plant, the EvoWashTM sand washing system, and the AquaCycleTM thickener.
This combination of equipment was designed to process the excess CRF and blinding material, transforming it into high-quality manufactured sand and other aggregates.
The M2500 mobile washing plant integrates feeding,
screening, sand washing, and stockpiling on a single chassis.
The EvoWashTM system, specifically designed to remove the unwanted fines from the material, produces a consistent and high-quality sand product.
The AquaCycleTM thickener recycles up to 90% of the water used in the washing process, significantly reducing the need for fresh water and minimising the environmental impact.
The team at Peter Fitzpatrick Ltd was invited to local sites that were already reaping the benefits of utilising CDE technology to see the equipment in operation.
Paul Fitzpatrick commented: “It was impressive to see the CDE equipment in operation at other quarries. There was always the worry that our abrasive gritstone material would prove
a challenge for the M2500 and Evowash system but we were encouraged after viewing the plant operating in other gritstone quarries and sand and gravel sites, and after listening to other operators talk so positively about their relationship with CDE.”
The implementation process involved detailed discussions and collaboration between CDE’s sales team, technical engineers and the team at Peter Fitzpatrick Ltd. They meticulously planned the design and location of the plant, considering factors such as power generation, water servicing, and the construction of silt ponds. The plant was strategically located to minimise civil engineering requirements and optimise operational efficiency.
FROM PROBLEM TO REVENUE STREAM
The new CDE washing plant has delivered impressive results for Peter Fitzpatrick Ltd. By processing the excess CRF and blinding material, the plant was able to produce a consistent and high-quality sand product. This not only addresses the issue of stockpiled material and contributes to the conservation of natural sand reserves but has also created a valuable new revenue stream for the company.
Paul Fitzpatrick commented on the positive impact of the plant:
“We can now have confidence in a quality sand, and a consistent production process that will provide for our customers needs. We have recovered the sand from a by-product or waste material providing sustainable resource management within our quarry production processes rather than ever increasing stockpiles of crushed rock fines. The investment has widened our customer base while providing greater sustainability.”
The plant’s capacity to handle up to 100,000 tonnes of dust and another 100,000 tonnes of secondary blinding material per year has significantly reduced the footprint of stockpiled material within the quarry. This has freed up valuable space and improved the overall efficiency
and sustainability of the quarrying operations.
Moreover, the quality of the manufactured sand has attracted new customers, further expanding the company’s market reach. The integration of the new plant has also enhanced the company’s ability to meet the demands of their Asphalt Plant, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality materials.
The strategic planning, innovative technology, and effective implementation of the CDE solution has enabled Peter Fitzpatrick Ltd to optimise its quarrying operations and enhance the company’s product offerings. The results speak for themselves, with significant reductions in stockpiled material, improved operational efficiency, and the creation of a new revenue stream through the sale of manufactured sand.
Des Crawford, Business Development Manager at CDE commented: “As Peter Fitzpatrick Ltd continues to build on the legacy of the company’s founders, this successful project exemplifies their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence in the quarrying and contracting industry. The new CDE washing plant not only addresses current challenges but also positions the company for future growth and success in an increasingly competitive market.
“It is always rewarding to work with a company that shares our values of creating our best world, one tonne at a time, and we look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with the team at Peter Fitzpatrick Ltd.”
SOLUTION
NUNAN FARM MACHINERY ANNOUNCED THIRD MERLO DEALER FOR IRELAND
Merlo, a global leader in telescopic handler innovation, is delighted to announce the addition of a third dealer to its network in the Republic of Ireland. Effective 3rd December 2024, Nunan Farm Machinery, based in Broadford, Co. Limerick, P56 T443, will represent Merlo in Counties Kerry, Limerick, Clare, north Tipperary, and south Galway.
Earlier this year, Merlo Group unveiled a new distribution model for Ireland, which has now come to fruition with the establishment of a nationwide dealer network for both Merlo’s agricultural and construction product ranges.
“This latest strategic appointment underscores Merlo Group’s commitment to providing Irish customers with robust, comprehensive coverage throughout the island of Ireland,” said Owen Buttle, National Sales Manager, Merlo UK and Ireland. “We are delighted to welcome Nunan Farm Machinery to the Merlo dealer network.”
Nunan Farm Machinery, established over 50 years ago, has a rich history of adapting alongside modern farming practices. Emphasising customer satisfaction and reliable service, Maurice Nunan, Managing Director, Nunan Farm Machinery shared, “We recognise that every product we sell is only as good as the service that supports it.”
He added, “We’re excited about this new partnership with Merlo. A telehandler is an indispensable machine for so many of our customers, and adding a telehandler franchise to our product range not only complements our existing lineup but offers our customers a fantastic product backed by Nunan Farm Machinery support.”
This partnership between Merlo and Nunan Farm Machinery further reinforces Merlo’s mission to deliver highquality, reliable equipment and exceptional aftersales support to customers across Ireland.
THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A NATIONWIDE DEALER NETWORK FOR
AGRICULTURAL AND CONSTRUCTION PRODUCT RANGES
Left to right, Gavin Smith, Area Sales Manager, Merlo UK and Ireland, Maurice Nunan, Managing Director, Nunan Farm Machinery Ltd.
Metso distributor in the UK and Ireland, McHale Plant Sales, said, ‘it cannot yet confirm if the equipment manufactured by Diamond Z and Screen Machine would become available on UK and Irish markets.’
The response was issued to media by McHale in wake of the recent announcement by the Finnish manufacturer that it had acquired two major US equipment manufacturers, Diamond Z and Screen Machine Industries.
SLOW SPEED SHREDDER
Metso US Acquisitions: News awaited concerning availability in UK and Ireland
Their purchase of Diamond Z, based in Caldwell, Idaho is said by Metso to ‘increase their offering in mobile equipment for the organic recycling markets’ while their purchase of Etna, Ohio-based Screen Machine Industries ‘broadens its portfolio in the North American mobile crushing and screening markets’.
Diamond Z has established a reputation for manufacturing high-quality, durable mobile and portable grinders for the infrastructure recycling sector. Its offering includes a broad range of high-speed grinders to suit varying needs, from land clearing, construction, demolition and composting to tyre disposal.
Screen Machine Industries offers a broad range of heavy-duty machines for various aggregate crushing and screening applications. According to Metso, both companies will continue to operate independently within Metso’s Materials Processing Products business line. The value of the transaction – which was not disclosed –has ‘no material impact’ on its finances, the Metso announcement added.
Sales chairman, Michael McHale said: “This inspired acquisition by Metso underlines their determination to maintain their pre-eminent position in all major markets, of which the UK and Ireland are two, through being alert to opportunities and by acquiring products that fit comfortably within their portfolio and meet the requirements of customers.”
FROM THE DESK OF: GORDON BEST, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, MPANI
PROGRAMME FOR GOVERNMENT: NINE PRIORITIES BUT 999 EMERGENCIES IN WAITING
Since the last edition of Plant and Civil Engineer a lot has happened.
The publication of the Executives Programme for Government (PfG), the coming to public awareness of the NI Water connection challenges, the roads maintenance funding crisis and subsequent MPANI media campaign and presentation to the Assembly’s Infrastructure Committee and further rationalisation in the industry with a number of takeovers of well-known brands, namely Kilwaughter and Macrete.
The publication of the Executives Draft Programme for Government was launched at Parliament Buildings back in October with great fanfare and optimism by the four main executive parties. We do know, however, that all was not tea and buns around the Executive table, with some parties not happy with what was included in the nine priorities and what was not. Simply put, the nine priorities are all “motherhood and apple pie”, and nowhere in those nine priorities does it contain the agreement to make the difficult decisions that will help “supercharge” our economy and give this place the type of vibrant, caring and progressive that the people and businesses deserve. All of us in the business community, and particularly within our own construction materials sector, know that we punch way beyond our weight in the wider UK and global economy. Yes, and we have achieved that not because of our politicians but in spite of them!!
The ongoing difficulties created by the NI water connection challenges have the potential to affect every part of our economy. Doing nothing or political grandstanding to certain ideologies is not an option. The Minister, John O’Dowd, has been
encouraged by both other political parties and the wider construction industry to work collaboratively with all stakeholders and invest in some “blue sky thinking” to reach a solution as quickly as possible.
ROADS AND RESOURCES UNDER THREAT
Our Highway Maintenance Group has been engaging with senior DfI Transport and Roads Asset Managers over the summer as fears of a structural road maintenance funding crisis have developed. The level of vacancies and loss of experience and skills within DfI and wider public sector has exasperated this crisis. In October, MPANI launched a media campaign to highlight the seriousness of the situation. In my own assessment, the outlook is the most serious that I can remember. Unfortunately, for many years now, the process by which the maintenance of our roads network is funded has been totally dependent on how much money other Government Departments cannot spend. That money is then redistributed about three times per year in what is called the monitoring rounds. The current budgetary and human resource challenges within the Department for Infrastructure are negatively impacting our ability as an industry to deliver work to maintain our valuable roads network, now estimated by the Department for Infrastructure to be valued at some £40 billion, the largest infrastructure network managed by the public sector in Northern Ireland. We are, of course, only too aware of the budgetary challenges facing the Executive at present, but it’s incumbent on all of us to work collaboratively together to
ensure that even with the current challenges facing us, we can deliver the necessary essential maintenance, quality and value for money for the Northern Ireland taxpayer”. There are approximately 950 men and women employed in the administration, manufacture, delivery and operational side of the road maintenance sector in Northern Ireland. On behalf of those people, we are asking that everything possible is done to ensure we have the funding to do what we do best: maintaining our vital roads network. If future maintenance funding is not forthcoming in October, then many of those 950 employees will not have jobs. Given that we have almost full employment and many are skilled in what they do, the industry will likely have difficulty getting them back in the future when funding levels may be greater. Our Industry has invested tens of millions of pounds in securing aggregate resources, manufacturing processes, quality assurance systems, skills and training. As an industry, we have also invested heavily in requirements to deliver on our social value commitments, required by public sector procurement, such as apprenticeships and employing graduates, health and safety, reducing our emissions and protecting and enhancing the environment around our production sites. In simple terms we just can’t turn these valuable resources off like a tap or an electric switch!!
FINDING POSITIVES IN THE PROGRAMME FOR GOVERNMENT
The Programme for Government (PfG) is genuinely disappointing. However, as business organisations, we will be submitting
Gordon Best, MPANI
responses to the consultation that will offer support and recommendations on what needs to be done by the Executive and local government to drive investment, create jobs and protect our valuable environment.
On a positive note, the PfG acknowledges the acute housing crisis in Northern Ireland, with more than 47,000 households on the social housing waiting list, including 35,000 classified as in housing stress. Against a background of a 60-year low of housing completions in 2023, we simply need to build more houses of all kinds. The draft PfG also commits to delivering a ‘Northern Ireland Housing Supply Strategy,’ but on the flip side, the “Local Development Plan” process remains gridlocked in many council areas. The Executive’s worthy ambition on housing is short on detail, and there remains concern about how funding for social and affordable homes can be secured.
On another positive note, the draft PfG acknowledges infrastructure shortcomings, including the need for funding for the ageing wastewater network. The PfG remains silent on politically less palatable solutions such as the mutualisation of NI Water or the introduction of water charges.
As I have mentioned previously, and did so to the Assembly Infrastructure Committee, the impact of this goes way beyond housing. It is also affecting city and town centre regeneration, the delivery of new schools and health infrastructure. The entire construction and development sector and the supply chain need clarity on the extent of existing constraints and what measures can be taken to mitigate short and long-term impacts.
‘IMPROVE’
IS NOT ENOUGH
The knock-on impacts of a slowdown in construction will impact everyone - from trades and apprenticeships to suppliers, to the cafes and shops that support workers across the sector, not to mention making other PfG commitments, particularly around housing supply, undeliverable.
One of the most disappointing aspects of the PfG is the statement on the need to “improve” the planning system to support housing delivery, economic development, and environmental sustainability. It simply fails to address the systemic issues in Northern Ireland’s planning process. Clarity is needed on how the Executive plans to tackle delays and coordinate improvement across a system that spans multiple departments and agencies, as well as both central and local government, who are all feeling the strain.
On decarbonisation, it is welcome to see the commitment to publishing a cross-departmental Climate Action Plan, which acknowledges the potential benefits of energy independence, but it is disappointing that this wasn’t flagged as one of the nine top priorities. The Executive must go much further in supporting renewable energy investment and development, particularly for those industries like mineral products that have a huge potential to help decarbonise so many parts of our society and the built environment. The final PfG would need to be clear in how it articulates the roadmap towards clean and green energy.
The PfG’s priorities are to be welcomed, no one could seriously object to any of the nine priorities, but the devil is in the detail –and there’s precious little of it in the PfG!
DUST DOWN YOUR PREMISES
Finally, I would like to remind all members about the latest HSENI compliance initiative focusing on dust exposure across Northern Ireland quarries, concrete and private waste premises from late October 2024 through to the New Year.
HSENI inspectors will be visiting premises to ensure that dust exposure is being
adequately controlled. Inspectors will be checking that operators have adequate procedures in place to reduce dust exposure so far as reasonably practicable, and reviewing the measures in place to ensure work activities can be carried out safely.
The focus of this inspection will be to carry out a dust exposure inspection to include:
• Ensuring that welfare facilities, vehicles and control rooms are kept in a suitable and sufficient condition.
• Checking that exposure to dust has been adequately assessed.
• Reviewing the measures in place to reduce employee exposure so far as reasonably practicable.
We look forward to seeing as many members as possible at our local member forum on 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 07876 136929. It would be great to have you on board. Take care and stay safe!!
Thank you to Keith Buchanan, MLA for joining our Highway Maintenance Group in the Great Hall prior to our presentation to the Committee. Members attending represented Breedon Group, Collen Bros (Quarries) Ltd, F P McCann Ltd, Gibson Bros Ltd, McQuillan Cos, Northstone Materials, Peter Fitzpatrick Ltd and P Keenan Quarries.
FUEL SAVINGS DRIVE CEMCOR INVESTMENT IN IRELAND’S FIRST CAT ® 988 XE WHEEL LOADERS
Finning has secured a deal to supply CEMCOR with seven new machines for its quarry in Cookstown, Northern Ireland. The quarry provides all the limestone for CEMCOR’s adjacent plant, producing around half a million tons of cement yearly. The new machines were delivered on-site earlier this month by Finning UK and Ireland, the world’s largest dealer of Cat® machines, parts and aftermarket services, and include two Cat 988 XE Wheel loaders - the first of their kind to arrive on the island of Ireland. These state-ofthe-art wheel loaders have a rated payload capacity of 11.3 tonnes (12.5 tons) making them highly effective for heavy-duty tasks and large-scale material handling. This will help boost the quarry’s productivity, but their contribution to improving operational efficiency was also a significant factor in the purchasing decision.
Paul Millar, Plant Manager at CEMCOR explains: “Sustainability is a key issue
in the cement industry, as is the cost of energy and bearing in mind current trends, we must consider these long-term factors. So, when planning the make-up of our future fleet, we are thinking about our energy use over the next 10-15 years.
“With regard to the wheel loaders, we have heard from other users that the electric drive technology saves huge amounts of fuel. When you add that to the other technology features the machines have, we found that the Cat®
machines offered the best value for our operation.”
In addition to the Cat® 988 XEs, Finning is also supplying CEMCOR with three Cat® 775 Rigid Quarry Trucks, a Cat® 352 ME Excavator, and a Cat® D4 Dozer. All of the new machines have the latest in-built technology features, including automated payload weighing, which reduces fuel use by avoiding extra trips and unnecessary adjustments. The machines also support site safety with proximity and
overload warning systems, tyre pressure monitoring and automated braking. Their diesel engines will run on HVO biofuel, reducing their net carbon emissions by up to 90%.
To ensure CEMCOR gets the absolute best out of its equipment, the company has opted for a six-year warranty as part of a Customer Value Agreement, which includes all servicing and maintenance to be carried out by Cat® Certified Finning service engineers.
Padraig Flynn, Machine Sales Account Manager at Finning UK & Ireland, comments:
“Our field service engineers in Lisburn have been working with Caterpillar to get fully up to speed on these new machines so CEMCOR can take full advantage of the features to drive operational efficiencies and savings while maintaining productivity. We believe that the CEMCOR quarry will set new standards for the industry in terms of production efficiency and minimising carbon emissions, so it’s great that we will be so closely involved.”
Handover of all the new front line equipment to CEMCOR Management and Quarry team From Padraig Flynn (Finning).
Karen McShane
Immediate Past President of CIHT
INFRASTRUCTURE FOR HEALTH, HAPPY HOMES AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
Over the summer, infrastructure has become a hot topic, with daily reports on congestion on our city streets following the opening of Grand Central Station. Underground, we have increased awareness of issues impacting our water supply and sewerage infrastructure. Many have their thoughts on the solution, but how do we improve the conditions to enable economic growth, and how do we fund these changes?
The Infrastructure Minister has a finite budget, and the calls from all sides for more funding seem to be undeliverable with the money tree already empty.
As I put pen to paper, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, is announcing her budget with an aspiration to increase the funding for our infrastructure. To do this, she has announced a tax raid of £40bn with a promise to drive economic growth by investing in public services, but just how much of this will Northern Ireland receive, and how quickly can we implement the works required to deliver our key services? Initial reports of £1.5bn for Northern Ireland must be substantiated, and we will wait to see how much of it is ring fenced for our key infrastructure or raided by the Finance Minister for other services. As an employer, the budget has made notable changes to employer’s national insurance rate, which is a tax that employers pay on top of your own personal National insurance. Following the announcement, the rate now starts at £5000 dropped from £9100. It also increases to 15% from April 2025, further increasing costs for every business. We know a lot of small to medium enterprises exist in Northern Ireland, and the Chancellor’s proposed changes to reduce business rates in England will not result in lowering of the extensive business rates here as we are on a different system. Inevitably small business owners will have little choice but to increase costs to stand still.
As an employer, I support the national living wage, which has increased by 6.7% to £12.21 an hour, worth up to £1,400 a year for full-time workers. The impact of increasing the national minimum wage for 18-20 year-olds by 16.3% to £10 an hour will impact many sectors who will feel this is a further additional cost to them, and I am of no doubt that, in turn, these businesses will have to pass on the increased costs.
CARROTS FOR PUBLIC TRANSPORT
What can we do to invest this sum into our infrastructure? The development of the bus lanes in our city centre streets has reduced the road capacity, and we can all agree that this enhancement to the deliverability of future transport services will help move more people through our congested streets. But so far this has been the pain for those who currently do not have a public transport service in their area to bring them into the congested town and city centres.
It is now time to invest in some of the carrots rather than just the sticks and start to deliver more public transport services so that users have a guaranteed journey to and from their destination. The improvement to the new hourly rail service to Dublin and the opening of Grand Central Station has improved services along the rail corridor to Belfast, but we cannot ignore our other towns and rural areas where residents call for an increase in the limited number of public transport services. We have limited late-night services in our city centres and, if we want people to divert to more sustainable measures, we will have to deliver these services to enable a nighttime economy to be more viable. It is time to invest in the north-south glider and look at increasing cost-effective services to make this more attractive. The £2 bus cap fare was not introduced in Northern Ireland, so the Chancellor’s announcement to increase this to £3 has led to many users in England expressing concern. Many that I speak to report that the cost of the journey for those working three days a week is still more than the fuel they put in their car and their car parking, so what can we do to make this more attractive by reducing this disparity and making bus fares more attractive in Northern Ireland?
WATER, SEWERAGE AND HOME BUILDING
Water is also a necessity to allow for the development of new homes and businesses here in Northern Ireland. A consortium of consultants has submitted proposals to the Infrastructure committee on the matter of Northern Ireland Water capacity constraints. They have prepared material to highlight the ongoing wastewater connections crisis and tried to quantify the total number of affected sites, of which many are for proposed residential properties.
Glen Lyons, CIHT President at CIHT Climates.
Significant capital investment is required to ensure sufficient capacity is developed following publication of information by NI Water, including closed catchments in 34 areas of the sewage network in 23 towns where developer-funded solutions are not possible to achieve a connection to the sewer network.
The scenario affecting the progression of most development sites is the need to follow the Wastewater Impact Assessment (WWIA) process. Most sites now require a WWIA, regardless of being located within the areas of constrained capacity. This involves a developer submitting an application to NI Water (£2,369+VAT application fee). NI Water subsequently provides a report detailing site-specific issues within the wastewater network affecting the development, along with potential solutions to create capacity in the network.
At present, developers are unable to undertake, or contribute to, the upgrade of existing NI Water assets, such as Waste Water Pumping Stations or Combined Storm Overflows (CSOs), due to legislative restrictions. This, in effect, removes the ability for developers to achieve a solution for wastewater connections, even when they are willing to contribute financially. Minister O’Dowd has confirmed that his team is reviewing the current legislation, and I have met with the Environment Minister Andrew Muir to discuss this very issue.
CIHT IN ACTION
As part of my role as Past President of CIHT, over the last few months we have been active in providing technical events, and evening lectures and reviewing current policy proposals. The Northern Ireland Region has prepared a response to the Draft Programme for Government on behalf of the industry to express our thoughts on how this can be improved. Our opening technical event for the Autumn was a presentation on Unlocking Social Value, the benefit in infrastructure. The presentation by Ester Barnes (SIB), Brenda Gallagher and Maeve Glover (Atkins Realis)
gave us all an insight into how best to deliver the benefit of social value into our contracts.
I have also had the pleasure of attending several Institution events with both Queens University Belfast and Ulster University, offering an excellent opportunity to debate the above issues with many involved in the industry. It was an honour to witness Professor Su Taylor being awarded a lifetime achievement award by the Concrete Society for her work on flexible bridges and the use of innovative techniques in concrete production. At Britannia Walk, we held a Council Meeting, and I have been chairing the Institution’s EDI panel to look at making our industry more attractive to everyone so that we can benefit from the skills of those from different experiences and backgrounds.
THE SURGEON’S TAKE ON INFRASTRUCTURE AND HEALTH
One of the highlights was attending a very interesting evening with Professor Scarlett McNally, a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and President of the Medical Women’s Federation, who outlined the causes of ill health and its biggest predator.
It was not a surprise to hear her discuss that social deprivation, nutrition and physical
inactivity are among the main contributors. We can design our infrastructure to encourage everyone to take a walk, and she outlined how those achieving the biggest benefit to improved health are those who can take up to one hour of exercise a day. This may be as simple as waking to and from the bus. She outlined how one in four adults do no exercise, and 47% of those over the age of 65 are in a similar position. The benefits of physical activity can help with unnecessary social care, and she used the expression “you can drop a decade in better fitness” in discussions of longevity, meaning that we can live up to a decade longer as a result.
One of her statistics reported that 31% of adults aged 65+ said they are prevented from walking more or at all on their local streets because of cracked and uneven pavements. Surely, this is something that we as an industry should be addressing, and it reinforces the need for improved maintenance budgets. The knock-on implications of not doing these low-cost repairs can have a massive impact on our health service costs in the future.
CLIMATE ACTION AND AWARDING ACHIEVEMENTS
Our new President, Glenn Lyons, has been championing Climate Action and he held one of his first full-day sessions in Belfast on CIHT Climates, where we debated what we as an industry can achieve and what our aspirations would be to significantly change how we do business to achieve the climate change targets. This Autumn session ended with my representation of CIHT at the CEF annual awards. It was extremely encouraging to see so many of our local companies achieving awards for the success of their major projects here, in Ireland and throughout UK. As a judge, I would encourage many of our local organisations to think further afield and enter these projects for national awards as well as the CEF. There is no doubt that we are punching above our weight and really making a difference in the industry.
Brenda Gallagher (Atkins Realis), Stephen Bradshaw (CIHT Chair NI) and Maeve Glover (Atkins Realis), Ester Barnes (SIB).
Mark Spence (CEF), John Glass (Translink), Karen McShane, Bryan Vaughan (President CEF) at the CEF Awards.
Professor Scarlett McNally (right).
THERE’S SOMETHING TO BUILD ON - WHEN YOU BUY A SCANIA
Scania has an option to cover most truck requirements in the construction sector
The Construction Sector is an important one for Scania.
However, due to the complicated nature of the sector, and the various environments and ways these vehicles can be used, having a one-size fits all solution may not suit every operator.
Scania has a different approach, thanks to its unique modular design principles, which were developed in the 1960s by Technical Director Sverker Sjöström.
Originally launched alongside the PGRT range in 1980 – the modular design principle improved vehicle quality and gave Scania a unique proposition.
Through the limited number of common parts, it allowed the manufacturer to
tailor-make their vehicle based on their customers’ specifications and needs. This provides an almost unlimited set of options to choose from.
To this day, modular design has remained one of Scania’s most important successes, which is why, if you’re in the market for a Scania construction vehicle, you know that your vehicle will be tailor-made to fit the demands of your business.
COVERING THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR
Scania has an option to cover most truck requirements in the construction sector from tippers, mixers and concrete pumps, to skip loaders and hooklifts. And, at the other end of the spectrum, heavy haulage trucks, mobile cranes and flatbed cranes.
For those vehicles working in extreme environments, there’s also the Xtra Tough pack (XT) available. These extra features make your Scania tougher and stronger.
FOCUSING IN ON THE TIPPER SEGMENT
The most common construction vehicle Scania builds is a tipper truck, or a tractor with semi-trailer with tipper body. While work for these types of vehicles can vary massively, they have one common factor - they operate regionally. This means they won’t cover the same mileage as long-haulage vehicles and often are driven without a load for 50% of the time.
A tipper needs to have good capacity, off-road characteristics and engine power. Fuel consumption is also important, but there is a fine balancing act between overall capacity and off-road characteristics.
In the UK, because the terrain and road topography isn’t as severe as in other countries, bodybuilders have been able to save some additional weight because a subframe is not required (A sub-frame is designed to give extra strength in tough terrains).
This allows an increase in the vehicle’s overall payload, which in turn means higher revenues generated by that operator per truck.
SOMETHING TO BUILD ON - WHEN YOU BUY A SCANIA www.roadtrucksscania.co.uk
CAN I GET A SCANIA TIPPER OFF THE SHELF?
A tipper truck is a specialised vehicle, tailored for specific tasks and conditions. Some are configured to perform several different tasks in different environments.
As such Scania’s modular build approach means there’s no ready off the shelf or one-size fits all vehicle to choose from. Instead, they will assess your operations, how you run your trucks, the routes you operate, and locations you predominantly travel to. From that assessment, they will tailor your tipper chassis accordingly. That means when it comes to cab options you can choose from Scania’s cityfriendly low-entry L-Cab body through to the flagship S-Cab. Depending on where your truck operates, picking the right cab to suit your driver is crucial. The same applies to engines and gearboxes. The full range of diesel combustion units are available to choose from - from 9-litre and 13-litre diesels, all the way up to 16.4-litre V8. There’s even a multitude of axle choices. There are 16 to choose from – 10 options for rigid vehicles and six for tractor units. The most common of which in the UK are 6x4 or 8x4.
For those looking to protect their truck – there’s the optional XT pack, which can include a number of protective features such as steel bumper, towing device, robust mirrors, high air intake, headlamp protection and anti-roll bar.
Not only does it give the truck a more rugged presence, but it also provides extra protection to vital components on the vehicle from damage.
OTHER ADD-ONS
Flexibility runs throughout Scania’s DNA. While the trucks are tailor-made to fit your specifications, there’s more ways Scania can shape your purchase to make sure you get the best out of your vehicle.
There are a variety of servicing options available, from simple maintenance through to Repair and Maintenance contracts. Also Scania ProCare, where parts and servicing meets connected services. ProCare provides customers with a proactive and responsive service solution, designed around four key areas – flexible maintenance plans, real-time vehicle health monitoring, preventative replacement and a digital ecosystem.
When it comes to construction vehicles, especially tippers, their service intervals are much shorter than long-haulage trucks. Every Scania is full of smart technology, advanced sensors and wireless connectivity. By analysing this data, operators can understand how to lower fuel consumption, reduce wear and maintenance needs, through to automating tedious administrative work. Simply put – Scania has a wealth of Connected Services options to help a business focus on what’s important to them.
HOW DO I GET ONE?
To make sure you buy the correct vehicle for your business - you need to work in collaboration with your chosen vehicle manufacturer.
In the case of Scania, everything is tailormade. If you’re buying in Northern Ireland, Road Trucks Ltd, Scania’s longest serving franchised partner in the UK, can support you throughout the lifecycle of your vehicle, from purchase through ongoing maintenance back to repurchase.
With locations in Omagh and Larne, they have all the Scania expertise needed to keep your trucks running – and you focused on earning money.
From the sales team, who will help you specify the correct specification, to the aftersales teams keeping your vehicles on the road. And then there is the team of Connected Services experts, who help you get the most out of your fleet – and find ways to make your operations more efficient.
If you are in the market for a tipper truck, the Road Trucks team are ready and waiting to show you what options you can choose from to build your perfect fleet.
We have 2 new vehicle sales executives covering N.Ireland. Covering the east of the country is Vincent Taggart available on 07803830215 Covering the west, Gareth Owen 07803830203.
LOOKING BACK ON THREE YEARS SINCE THE DELIVERY OF ROKBAK #1
In 2021, Easton Sales and Rentals became the first company to take delivery of a Rokbak truck. Fast forward three years and the US dealer is still enjoying its partnership with the Scottish articulated hauler manufacturer, calling it “one of the best decisions we’ve ever made”.
Houston, Texas, has been the focal point for some of the world’s most significant space launches. In 2021, it was the site of another significant launch, only this time earth-bound: – the introduction of the very first Rokbak articulated hauler.
After the Rokbak brand was officially unveiled in September 2021, a pair of RA30 ADTs were the first to be dispatched from the factory in Motherwell, Scotland, and sent to Houston-based heavy equipment specialist, Easton
Sales and Rentals, marking the beginning of the Rokbak journey into the public arena.
The sand-coloured RA30 trucks arrived at the Easton depot and made an immediate impression.
“When they first hit the yard, everybody liked them,” reflects Jeff Udelson, managing principal of Easton Sales and Rentals. “Not one person had a bad thing to say about them. It’s such a goodlooking truck and the new colours really stood out. We knew we were onto a good thing. Today, Rokbak haulers are some of the most productive and competitive trucks on the market and we’re proud to say, ‘we got there first’!”
GO WEST
Easton Sales and Rentals is a key Rokbak dealer in North America. The US and Canada make up the biggest ADT market in the world and account for around 60% of Rokbak’s sales. The company got off to a great start in the region, with Easton’s first RA30s immediately provided on a three-year lease to Texasbased Linco Construction, to help with earthworks, underground
Jeff Udelson, Easton Sales & Rentals, received Rokbak’s North American Dealer of the Year award from Paul Douglas, Managing Director, Rokbak
utility and clearing work on the company’s projects. After the leasing agreement expired, Easton added the trucks back into its own rental fleet where they continue to deliver productive performance.
“We now rent out the trucks for big, high-profile dirt jobs,” says Jeff. “In Houston, these are typically excavation areas for detentions basins, tilt-wall construction and distribution centres.”
The RA30 articulated hauler is ideal for these types of applications in the tough Texas heat. The 28 tonne (30.9 US ton) unit offers a heaped capacity of 17.5m3 (22.9 yd3) and is powered by a Scania DC9 engine, producing 276 kW (370 hp) and 1880 Nm (1387 lbf ft) of torque at 1,400 rpm. Its fuel-efficient engine is emissions compliant and meets all North American T4F engine requirements. It’s also got a spacious, ROPS/FOPS compliant,
pressurised cab with excellent HVAC for better operator comfort.
RELIABLE ROKBAK RELATIONSHIP
Since taking on the dealership for the Rokbak brand, Easton has continued to enjoy success. In 2023, during the CONEXPO event, the company was named Rokbak’s North American Dealer of the Year 2022, highlighting the team’s commitment to
providing top-of-the-line, heavy equipment solutions and exceptional customer service.
“From day one, we’ve felt the benefit of working with Rokbak,” Jeff reflects. “We knew we were investing in a brand that shared our values of quality, innovation and customer satisfaction. Looking back, it’s been one of the best decisions we’ve made.”
In the time since those first two RA30s made their way across the Atlantic, market awareness for Rokbak has significantly increased over the past several years. Trucks can be found in applications all over North America
– from California to Canada, and Tennessee to Texas.
“We’re proud that Easton Sales and Rentals acquired the first Rokbak trucks and have helped the brand develop such a strong reputation. We have a productive and reciprocal relationship, which we believe will sustain us long into the future,” says Daniel Meara, Regional Sales Manager for Rokbak in North America. “We’re continuing to cultivate long-standing dealer partners in North America, and Easton’s enthusiasm for the brand and the product has been integral to establishing Rokbak as the industry benchmark for performance, power and reliability in this important market.”
The Dieseko ICE1223B Excavator Mounted Vibrator (EMV) and 8SG Side Grip Hammer from Groundforce provides the perfect solution to challenging ground conditions.
This project related to an exclusive housing development in the West Midlands, comprising two, three, and four-bedroom homes in a semi-rural landscape just ten minute’s drive from the town centre. The development is on the site of a former coal mine, and much of the site consists of made ground. In addition,
GROUNDFORCE PROVIDES THE PERFECT SOLUTION TO CHALLENGING GROUND CONDITIONS
two disused pit shafts (up to 300m deep) are located on the site.
Although these shafts were capped following the closure of the pit, the reinforced concrete caps were considered inadequate, and the developer decided to have them removed and replaced with new, more stable RC caps.
The existing shaft caps were cast onto a layer of made ground and a specialist contractor, L Healy Ltd, was employed to remove these and replace them with stronger RC caps sitting on
the deeper natural bedrock instead of the less stable made ground.
THE CHALLENGE
Healy’s task involved creating two sheet-piled cofferdams, one over each of the pit shafts. The steel sheet piles needed to penetrate to a depth of 9m to engage the bedrock. Wayne Healy, owner of L Healy Ltd, decided to install the sheet piles himself rather than subcontract this work to a piling specialist. Instead of employing a third party, complete with plant and operatives, Healy could use its own excavator and personnel, which
were already on-site. This achieved cost savings and more efficient use of resources. All that was required was to hire in a boom-mounted vibrating piling hammer.
In November 2022, ahead of commencing the contract, Healy contacted Groundforce, and area manager Jade Walker agreed to supply a Dieseko ICE8SG side-grip hammer, maintaining contact with Healy in anticipation of the contract start date. Due to the variable nature of the made ground, it was impossible to predict the piling operation’s ease or difficulty. In this event, Healy hit refusal limits (refusal limit is defined when the penetration or extraction rate is greater than 5 minutes per 250mm) with the ICE8SG hammer.
THE SOLUTION
When pile refusal is encountered, this usually means that a larger, more powerful hammer is required to overcome the resistance.
Anticipating this possibility, Groundforce area manager Jade Walker maintained regular contact with Wayne Healy, ensuring that when a problem arose, she was prepared to offer a solution.
“Often, what happens is that when there is a problem like this, the client seeks advice from a specialist piling contractor – who will try to persuade them to let them do the work. But I had let Wayne know
THE PROOF IS IN THE FEEDBACK...
The Groundforce team have an excellent knowledge of their full range of products and regularly help sites formulate solutions to on-site problems. Nothing is ever too much to ask and equipment sent to site is of the best quality - they are always a pleasure to deal with.
Wills Bros
right at the outset that we could offer an alternative solution,” she explained.
The solution was the Dieseko ICE1223B Excavator Mounted Vibrator, one of the most powerful hammers in Europe. Although many piling specialists operate equipment of this size, Groundforce is the only company in the UK and Ireland that offers the ICE1223B for hire.
Groundforce off-hired the ICE8SG side-grip hammer and supplied the ICE1223B EMV to Healy, which proceeded to install the two cofferdams with no further difficulty.
EFFICIENT AND COST-EFFECTIVE
Groundforce’s self-delivery solution offered an efficient and cost-effective alternative to employing a sheet piling contractor for a project of this type.
The ICE piling hammers are simple to use – though Groundforce does offer equipment familiarisation where needed – and any competent excavator operator can work, even with the large Dieseko ICE1223B unit, with total confidence.
The two excavations measured 12m x 12m x 9m deep, and Healy installed approximately 86 steel sheet piles into each one over a period of about six weeks.
“We chose Groundforce after looking at the alternatives and checking out the market,” says Wayne Healy. “This was two years ago,
before we were even on-site. But Jade kept in touch with us and when we finally got the go-ahead, everything was ready. Groundforce provided excellent service and when we encountered problems with pile refusal, we were ready to provide a suitable solution.”
The ICE1223B hammer is back on-site now – this time, extracting the sheets from the completed and back-filled excavations. www.vpgroundforce.ie
We value and support you and in light of that our service offering focuses on flexibility, reactivity and reliability on each and every project.
If you are in need of support on your next project, contact us to see if Groundforce have the solutions.
Mountmellick Hire Desk 1800 883 364 Lisburn Hire Desk 0800 783 2055 www.vpgroundforce.ie
Director of construction company fined following serious injuries to worker
Following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI), the Director of a County Down-based construction company has been fined at Craigavon Crown Court after a worker sustained serious injuries. The company director pleaded guilty to a single health and safety offence and was fined a total of £12,500.
The Court heard that on 12 November 2022, a male employee sustained serious crush injuries as a result of being struck by a reversing lorry driven by the company director. The employee was working alongside him to
retrieve a forklift truck that had become stuck in uneven ground at the company's premises.
Speaking after the hearing, Sophie Pearson, an Inspector with HSENI's Major Investigation Team, said "This incident could so easily have been avoided. In relation to workplace transport activities, suitable workplace transport controls must be implemented, with adequate instruction, information, and effective communication in place at all times. HSENI will not hesitate to take enforcement action to ensure workplace transport risks are appropriately managed."
The HSENI investigation determined that the company director failed to take reasonable care for the health and safety of other persons at work, and in particular, failed to ensure that others were in a place of safety as he reversed the lorry within the yard. Suitable and sufficient checks should and could have easily been carried out throughout the duration of the task to ensure that persons were in a place of safety.
The principles of managing workplace transport fall into three main areas namely 'safe site' which ensures effective segregation of vehicles from pedestrians, 'safe vehicle' which considers the most appropriate vehicle for the task and environment, and 'safe driver' which focuses on the competence and behaviour of those who operate vehicles. Further information on the legal requirements of managing workplace transport can be found on HSENI's website, including information on the ongoing workplace transport campaign 'Drive Danger Out' '.
Concrete products manufacturer fined following serious injuries to worker
Following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI), a County Armagh concrete products manufacturer has been fined for failing to ensure the safety of employees whilst performing maintenance tasks at an unguarded conveyor.
At Craigavon Crown Court, the company was fined £16,000 after earlier pleading guilty to a single health and safety offence.
The Court heard that on 14 January 2021, an employee suffered serious arm injuries whilst performing maintenance
Plant
tasks at a concrete batching plant conveyor. After identifying a sand blockage at the conveyor's tail pulley, safety guards were removed to clear the material.
The conveyor belt was allowed to run while sand was manually shovelled back onto it.
In attempting to clear a further blockage of sand in this area while the machine was still running, the employee was drawn into the tail pulley of the conveyor, trapped, and suffered serious injuries.
HSENI Principal Inspector, Justine McIntyre said: "Employers have a legal duty to ensure employees
A Belfast-based plant hire company has been fined £80,000 at Laganside Crown Courtfor failing to ensure the safety of its employees and members of the public following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI),
and others are not put at risk from unguarded machinery.
"Adequate written isolation and lock-out procedures, including the provision of equipment to allow employees to effectively lock-out a machine, must be in place where workers are required to perform tasks such as maintenance, repair, installation, and cleaning of plant. Where specific tasks require plant to run, with safety guards removed, a suitable risk assessment must be in place, including adequate control measures to prevent injury.
"Whilst this preventable accident resulted in serious injuries to
The Court heard that on 4 October 2022, while loading a large Mobile Elevated Working Platform (MEWP) onto a lorry trailer on a public road, the MEWP toppled off the side of the trailer as it was being driven on. The operator was ejected from the MEWP platform onto the road and sustained life-changing injuries.
HSENI Inspector Kevin Campbell said: "Employers have a legal duty to ensure employees and others are not put at risk. Loading and unloading plant and equipment is a very common activity across all industries. The size and weight of the load, and location of the loading or unloading activity, can make seemingly routine activities become more difficult and introduce specific hazards.
"Serious incidents can result where work activities have not been adequately assessed, with proper control measures put in place to safeguard employees and members of the public. Appropriately trained banksmen must be utilised where
the employee, the outcome could have been even worse."
The investigation established that the company had no documented isolation and lockout procedure nor equipment available to employees to lock out each energy isolation point effectively. Furthermore, no specific risk assessment detailed adequate control measures for running a conveyor with the safety guards removed.
Specific HSENI guidance on machinery guarding, safe isolation and lock-out procedures for the concrete products industry is available at: HSENI- Concrete premises resource list.
the risk assessment demonstrates their requirement, and arrangements must be put in place to keep people away from loading or unloading operations.
"HSENI will not hesitate to recommend the prosecution of companies who fail to provide safe working conditions for their employees."
The HSENI investigation identified that the company failed to adequately identify the risks associated with loading plant fitted with adjustable and retractable axles and failed to provide a banksman to assist the operator in safely controlling and directing the loading operations.
The company further failed to ensure adequate measures were in place to effectively segregate live traffic and pedestrians from the loading operation on the public road thereby placing members of the public at risk.
Information in relation to working safely with plant and equipment is available online at www.hseni.gov.uk/topic/workplace-transport.
view from the cab
GENIE BOOM LIFT FROM SLEATOR IS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR BOLES HIRE
Ireland’s leading plant hire and telehandler specialist, Boles Hire, has recently taken delivery of a Genie ZX-135/70 articulating boom lift, which sits, size-wise, at the top end of the Genie range. Supplied by Sleator Plant, the lift arrived with Boles Hire in mid-August and was delivered directly to the hire customer for whom it had been purchased.
Colin Boles outlines the rationale for choosing the Genie ZX-135/70: “One of our hire customers, a leading cladding contractor, needed a boom lift for a specific project in Dublin City. So, this Genie was bought specifically for our customer and went straight to the job site, where I imagine it will be working for at least another six months. When its job is completed, it will come back into our hire fleet.”
So why this particular machine?
Colin Boles continues, “We like Genie as a brand. It’s a good name, and its products are all very well-made, dependable and fit for purpose. The Genie ZX-135/70 has the reach and capabilities our customer needed for a large project, working at height but in an urban environment. The ZX-135 was the perfect fit – exactly what our customer wanted. “We also like dealing with Sleator Plant. We have a good working relationship with Brian Frizzell and Sleator’s customer service and back-up is second to none. We have a very large plant hire fleet, and, of course, we deal with many brands, but Sleator and Genie were the right match for this investment.”
EXTENSIVE FLEET FOR WIDE-RANGING HIRE NEEDS
The Genie ZX-135/70 is the second such machine Colin Boles has bought from Sleator, and a third is currently on order. The new Genie brings the Boles Hire fleet of articulating and straight boom access lifts to 110, but that is only one section of the company’s stock of plant equipment.
Boles Hire is perhaps best known as a telehandler specialist and has a telehandler
fleet of several hundred, including 100 rotating telehandlers (rotos). Colin purchases a range of brands but is especially proud of the fleet’s two Magni 51-metre rotating telehandlers. “We bought the first Magni in Europe, and we are still the only Magni owner in Ireland,” says Colin. The hire stock also includes a comprehensive range of excavators and dumpers, tractors and accessories, and event hire equipment. As a market leader, Boles Hire has
an outstanding track record for the service and supply of fresh machines to all construction, civil engineering and industrial sectors, as well as providing local businesses and households. Machines can be provided for self-drive or with a driver, and all the in-house drivers are fully certified and experienced.
Reflecting Ireland’s growing reputation as a filming location, Boles Hire has developed a unique specialism in supplying plant and equipment hire for
film sets. Recent productions serviced by Boles Hire include the Netflix’ Wednesday’ series directed by Tim Burton and starring Jenna Ortega and the blockbuster ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ which has had multiple Academy Awards nominations for ‘best animated feature’.
KEY CREDENTIALS OF THE GENIE ZX-135/70
The Genie ZX-135/70 is an articulated boom lift that offers a combination of height, reach, and flexibility, making it ideal for outdoor construction, infrastructure and industrial applications. It is particularly useful for reaching areas that are difficult to access, such as corners or protruding parts.
The ZX-135/70 has a maximum up-and-over clearance of 23.01 metres (75 feet 6 inches) ensuring that operators can manoeuvre over obstacles and work on intricate structures without repositioning.
With 21.25 metres (70 feet), of horizontal outreach, along with a Jib-Extend™ that allows for an extra 3.66 to 6.10 metres (12 – 20 feet) of vertical reach, 110° vertical rotation and a significant platform capacity of 272 kg, the ZX-135/70 is designed to tackle jobs where horizontal extension is critical. This capability makes it suitable for applications like building maintenance and industrial inspections where obstacles are present.
view from the cab
The Jib-Extend™ is a standout feature that delivers added manoeuvrability and helps reach over structures, facilitating more precise work.
Additionally, the boom lift can perform a 360° continuous turret rotation and a 160° platform rotation for quick and easy positioning. Together, these elements deliver superior productivity up to a maximum working height of 43.15 metres (141 feet), making it ideal for projects requiring high-altitude access. This is a significant advantage for infrastructure and large-scale construction tasks.
STABLE AND VERSATILE
In addition to the productivity benefits, the Genie ZX-135’s mini XChassis axle design extends and retracts axles from 3.94 metres x 4.11 metres (extended) to 2.49 metres x 4.11 metres (retracted). This unique feature provides enhanced stability, as the extendable and retractable axles can be adjusted to the conditions of the work environment, whether on uneven terrain or in confined spaces. Additionally, it provides a narrow profile for transportation.
Notably, the machine’s four-wheel steer with front, rear, crab, and coordinate wheel steering options provides impressive manoeuvrability and smooth operation on even rough jobsites. The lift is powered by a diesel engine, providing the necessary torque and strength to operate on rough terrain.
The ZX-135/70’s design is particularly suited for challenging work conditions. Its combination of height and reach makes it valuable in both urban and industrial settings. Operators report that the machine’s controls are intuitive and responsive, while its advanced safety features, such as load-sensing systems, provide confidence during high-level operations.
The Genie ZX-135/70 is also equipped with enhanced control diagnostics, which simplifies maintenance and troubleshooting. Its ability to be configured with different attachments, including material-handling options, increases its versatility across a variety of job sites.
working at heights
MARKET-LEADING BRANDS POSITION IPS IRELAND AT THE FOREFRONT OF POWERED ACCESS SUPPLIES
IPS Ireland is the leading partner for powered access parts, service, workshop supplies and construction plant spares.
The company is rooted in a customercentric philosophy, dedicated to maintaining top-quality standards, boasting an expansive product portfolio, expert technical consultation, and offering efficient delivery across the island of Ireland. As a trusted partner, IPS Ireland ensures the provision of superior-quality spare parts for your machinery and equipment. The company’s head office in Dundalk is home to a vast inventory of parts, enabling it to provide a nationwide service throughout Ireland. IPS Ireland is equipped to supply and install parts for any make or model of access or plant equipment, including but not limited to Genie, Hinowa, Snorkel, JLG, Yanmar, JCB, and many more.
The independently owned company is proud to be the exclusive Irish distributor for numerous top-tier brands in the industry.
It has established strong partnerships with UK-based SafeMewp Safety Attachments, Aresta Safety Products, and The Crane Pad Shop. Upholding the highest quality assurance standards is integral to operations, solidifying IPS Ireland’s reputation within the business landscape.
SAFEMEWP SAFETY ATTACHMENTS
SafeMEWP engineers and designs a range of universal lifting attachments for powered access machines, including the fast-selling pipe packs and board carriers that help maximise safe productivity while operating Powered Access and Material Handling equipment.
working at heights
According IPS Ireland’s General Manager Trevor Lambe, “The majority of hire companies have diverse makes and models of machinery in their fleet, necessitating the use of universal lifting attachments for secure material handling. Our partnership with SafeMEWP, serving as the Irish distributor, allows us to advocate for safe lifting practices in a financially feasible manner for our customers. This approach has been met with positive feedback, contributing to the brand’s growth in the Irish market.”
THE CRANE PAD SHOP
The Crane Pad Shop provides high-grade crane pads, spreader plates, and ground mats specifically crafted to guarantee stability and safety for all your heavy lifting requirements. These resilient and dependable pads are designed for utilisation at any construction site and are compatible with heavy plant machinery, cranes, and access platforms. These products ensure optimal performance and enhanced safety during operations.
In a recent statement, Gary Power, Parts Manager at IPS Ireland, expressed his satisfaction with the Crane Pad shop and its offerings. “We have been a loyal customer for many years and we believe now is the opportune time to expand our partnership by becoming a distributor. The outstanding quality and availability of the pads, combined with the ability to supply and deliver highquality stock at competitive prices the following day, have significantly contributed to IPS Ireland’s growth in the crane Industry. At IPS Ireland, our customer needs are the centre of our operation, and this strategic partnership
has further expanded our network, marking another significant milestone for IPS Ireland.”
ARESTA SAFETY PRODUCTS
Xenith Height is a company dedicated to the design, production and supply of fall arrest equipment and safety harnesses, aimed at tasks involving work at height. The Aresta Safety line is specifically designed to offer technical solutions that safeguard workers from potential falls and other associated risks when performing tasks at elevated levels.
Commenting on their partnership with IPS Ireland, Ian Mc Intyre, Sales at Xentih Heights, said: “Our strategic partnership with IPS Ireland, serving as distributors for our Aresta range, represents a significant opportunity we have sought for an extended period. This powerful collaboration is purposefully crafted to enhance our service offerings for the Irish market, with a local approach and high-quality service. We believe our Irish
clients will appreciate the improved product availability and faster delivery times. It’s a genuine advantage for everyone involved.”
EXPLORE IPS IRELAND
IPS Ireland, a premier nationwide provider of parts and services, plays a pivotal role in the parts industry. The company’s comprehensive array of services can be explored on its website, www.ipsireland. ie or contact their dedicated customer advisors can be reached at 042 933 9111.
Terex Campsie Celebrates 5-Year Anniversary
Terex Campsie, the manufacturing centre for leading Terex brands, including Terex Ecotec®, Green-Tec™, and ProStack®, proudly celebrates its 5th anniversary since opening in 2019. Over the past five years, the facility has become a key engineering and manufacturing facility for Terex, playing an essential role in advancing its brands across the waste management, recycling, and bulk material handling industries. Jonathan Hanna, General Manager of Terex Campsie said, “These past five years have been a testament to the dedication, innovation, and passion of our team at Terex Campsie. From the very beginning, our goal was to be at the forefront of the waste management, recycling sectors and conveying sectors, and today we are proud to see how far we’ve come. Our team has made significant strides in production capacity, product development, and safety, and we look forward to many more years of success.”
In its first year, the facility welcomed a £12 million investment and quickly
became home for Terex Ecotec and Terex Conveying Systems. Just a year later, in 2020, a 30,000-square-foot expansion was completed, allowing for the addition of the ProStack product line. Production has grown substantially, with the facility reaching its 100th machine in 2020, 500th in 2022, and its 1,000th machine— the TDS 815 Slow Speed Shredder—in 2024. Throughout this growth, the site has maintained a solid commitment to safety, celebrating 1,000 days without a lost-time incident in September 2024. Employment at Terex Campsie expanded from 15 employees in 2019 to over 150 today, reflecting the site’s ongoing development and investment in local talent. Terex Campsie’s expansion has not only facilitated the production of industryleading products but also enabled the site to drive a proactive product development strategy. This approach has resulted in a 50% expansion of operations since 2019, and output has tripled compared to its early years. Terex Campsie continues to serve global markets, exporting machines
worldwide and reinforcing Terex’s position as a leading manufacturer of advanced environmental and conveying equipment. Jonathan Hanna, General Manager of Terex Campsie continued: “The last five years have been an incredible journey and reaching our 1,000th machine production milestone was a proud achievement for the entire team. While current market conditions have presented challenges, we remain committed to focusing on innovation, safety, and operational efficiency. As we navigate these times, our focus is on building a resilient foundation that positions the site for future growth and continued leadership in the waste management, recycling and conveying sectors.”
CEA response to the UK government’s Industrial Strategy
On Friday, 14 October,, the UK government unveiled ‘Invest 2035’, a comprehensive Industrial Strategy designed to drive sustainable economic growth across key sectors, including advanced manufacturing and clean energy. The Construction Equipment Association (CEA) acknowledges this initiative and the potential it brings, but believes the industry’s critical role within these sectors deserves greater attention.
Viki Bell, Director of Operations at the CEA, shares our perspective on how the construction equipment sector aligns with these growth areas and the importance of fully integrating our contributions into the government’s vision for a resilient economy. She said, “We’re pleased to see the Industrial Strategy, which aligns with our calls in the CEA manifesto. However, it’s disappointing that the construction equipment sector hasn’t been more prominently recognised, given its natural fit
within Advanced Manufacturing and Clean Energy. Our sector generates over £15 billion in revenue, supports over 44,000 jobs, and invests heavily in R&D - £250 million annually. We’re playing a leading role in advancing clean energy within our sector with sustainable innovations such as battery storage and hydrogen fuel, which are essential to the transition to clean energy.
“The CEA looks forward to working with our government to ensure the sector’s role as a major contributor to the
UK’s economic resilience is acknowledged. Our industry is ready to fully engage in the consultation process to highlight how we advance within these critical sectors.”
Viki Bell, Director of Operations, CEA.
RAISING PRODUCTIVITY TO THE POWER OF THREE
Get more work done with the new JLG Hi-Capacity HC3 boom lifts. Featuring an expanded work envelope with three capacity zones, these machines can carry up to three occupants and tools to height in every zone.
EXPLORE OUR HI-CAPACITY HC3 BOOM LIFTS
When you need to carry more weight to height, you have options with the telescopic boom lifts from JLG. Our lineup currently includes the 400, 600 and 800 series Hi-Capacity booms. Get the specs for each available machine, and don’t forget to check back for information about new models.
JCB X-Series excavators are leading the way in lowering fuel consumption. The 145XR now uses up to 10% less fuel than our previous model, the JZ140. We’ve made this possible by reducing the working speed of the engine from 2050rpm to 1700rpm, whilst maintaining performance by optimising the hydraulic system. We’ve also improved slew control and increased bucket tearout by 13% for smoother operating. Start saving today.
* £2000 saving is versus the JZ140 Stage V and is based on an
STRONG FOCUS ON HI-TECH AT MULTIPLE JCB LAUNCH EVENT
BY MARTIN ELLIMAN
JCB hosted a launch event for multiple products at at its UK headquarters, and what an event it was, introducing nine new products to the JCB line-up. There was a strong focus on technology solutions for improved performance, operation and safety, reported on here and two major machine launches, the new, reduced tailswing 145XR crawler excavator, the new JCB 558 PRO rotating telescopic telehandler and a new work platform for rotating handlers. As ever, the welcome and hospitality was second to none. The JCB Golf and Country Club was our overnight base and some craic was had! The business elements included a trip to the JCB VIP Visitor’s Centre for machine reveal, followed the next day began with presentations at the Visitor’s Centre follow by a chance to try out the machinery at the JCB Demonstration facility. We witnessed some remarkable advances for the industry and had a great time! My thanks go to the JCB team, and it was great to meet new, likeminded folks at the event.
AI TECHNOLOGY IN BOOST TO ON-SITE MACHINE SAFETY
One of JCB’s launches was a new artificial intelligence (AI) system designed to significantly reduce the risk of harm and injury to workers on construction sites. JCB has developed an integrated pedestrian recognition system - JCB INTELLISENSE -
for use on Loadall telescopic handlers to reduce the risk of workers being struck by moving materials handling machines on construction sites. The system identifies, assesses, and mitigates risks on construction sites and enables contractors and operators to manage potential hazards around the machine and its operating environment.
The JCB INTELLISENSE system was initially launched on two key construction models, the JCB 540-140 and the 535125 Loadalls, following calls from UK construction firms for pedestrian recognition systems on-site. JCB is the first major OEM manufacturer to provide a factory-fit solution.
The key features of JCB INTELLISENSE include 270° Artificial Intelligence (AI) camera coverage around the machine, visual and audible alerts for the operator and pedestrians in close proximity to the machine, and full integration with JCB’s LiveLink telematics system to allow data to be accessed from a single source machine and cloud data storage as standard. The system also provides customer data encryption and full compliance with data protection regulations Industry, based on a first OEM factory fit solution.
The JCB INTELLISENSE system is a factory-fit solution on JCB Loadall telescopic handlers. It includes an on- board data storage facility with a telematics box to provide a back-up of events for site reporting that can be downloaded for playback. Unlike aftermarket systems, the JCB INTELLISENSE is fully integrated into the machine’s LiveLink telematics system, allowing users to remotely access the data, making it the ideal risk management tool for fleet and construction managers alike.
NEW HI-TECH TAG OFFERS VERSATILE ASSET MONITORING SOLUTION
JCB has launched a new product to help customers monitor the location of all powered or nonpowered equipment, regardless of its size, function, or brand.
The LiveLink Asset Tag is a small battery-powered, Bluetoothtransmitting device that can be fixed to any asset – from hand tools, machine attachments such as breakers, buckets, and sweeper collectors, through to skips, powerpacks and site accommodation units.
The tag integrates with JCB LiveLink, a fleet management system, providing complete visibility and improving productivity by eradicating the time wasted locating misplaced equipment.
At 68mm x 32mm x 16mm and weighing just 50g, the tags are compact, discrete, and lightweight. Attached by bolts or adhesive, they are strong and durable, achieving the highest IP69K rating for protection against dust and water ingress. This makes them capable of withstanding the rugged outdoor conditions typically found in the construction and agricultural sectors.
LiveLink Asset Tag uses the latest Bluetooth Low Energy 5.0 technology and can be located
within an 800-metre line of sight range of the nearest enabled LiveLink unit or partner unit. The tags feature an impressive four-year battery life.
JCB Aftermarket Managing Director Mario Moser: “By integrating with the JCB LiveLink system, customers can now benefit from a single, central source for all asset management.
The JCB Asset Tag is another great addition to the LiveLink portfolio to help businesses maximise efficiency and drive productivity.”
INTELLIWEIGH SYSTEM FOR HEAVY WHEELED LOADERS
As part of its Waste and Controls option package, JCB has introduced the Intelliweigh system for its 427, 437 and 457 wheeled loader models, providing an accurate, digital and connected on-board weighing solution straight from the factory.
JCB Intelliweigh, which comes with an optional printer, has been specifically designed and developed for JCB wheeled loading shovels. It is capable of weighing loads on a multitude of attachments even when working on uneven ground conditions, leading to reduced cycle times and maximum tonnes per hour performance.
Offering a +/-2% accuracy rating and an ergonomic 7” touchscreen display with physical keys for increased useability, the Intelliweigh system is compatible with up to 10 different attachments, including forks and buckets.
An integrated GPS system delivers precision machine productivity tracking and material location tracking capabilities, offering site managers realtime feedback on material stock levels and locations.
Intelliweigh can be used as a split system, allowing the operator to load and weigh multiple vehicles on a single site. It can also be used to show the reversing camera feed, when fitted. This allows the operator to see all useful functions on a single screen, improving site safety and reducing operator fatigue. An onboard printer provides weight tickets from within the cab. Intelliweigh data can also be automatically uploaded to a customer’s systems, with live updates on machine efficiency and production.
LEVER STEER OPTION TO NEW CONTROLS PACKAGE
JCB has developed a Lever Steer option for its large platform wheeled loaders, designed to deliver enhanced comfort and control for the operator, particularly in repetitive loading operations. Available as part of the company’s JCB Controls option pack, the Lever Steer option is incorporated into an ergonomically-designed lever armrest that sits to the left of the operator’s seat. Lever Steer is a new option that allows the operator to steer the machine with a fingertip control lever, rather than using the steering wheel, greatly reducing operator effort in repetitive loading and stockpiling operations. The armrest sidepod can be fully adjusted for height and tilt, delivering the perfect driving position for operators of all sizes. When not in use, the armrest can be folded back, leaving clear, unobstructed access to the seat when entering and leaving the machine. This also allows user to switch seamlessly switch between Lever Steer Mode or conventional Steering Wheel Control, depending on their operating preference. Along with the steering lever, which can be thumb-controlled, the sidepod has fingertip switches for transmission forward and reverse control, a kickdown button, a horn and a control for the front windscreen wipers. This allows the operator to carry out a range of digging and loading tasks without having to take their left hand off the steering control, while their right hand is operating the lift arm, bucket or attachment controls. The Lever Steer system is available for the 457 and 457 Agri models, along with the 457S. It can also be supplied with the 427/437 loaders and the 435S.
Martin Elliman, General Manager, Plant & Civil Engineer.
CITB NI CELEBRATES 60 YEARS PROVIDING INDUSTRY SKLLS AND TRAINING
The Construction Industry Training Board NI (CITB NI) is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Since 1964, the organisation has been at the forefront of identifying the skills and training needs for Northern Ireland’s construction industry and shaping the sector’s growth and development, something which the organisation looks set to continue in the years ahead.
Currently, CITB NI supports 3,600 registered construction employers by promoting and delivering training services identified by the industry. Last year alone, the organisation provided £2m in training grants to a range of NI construction companies. Alongside this,
CITB NI continues to showcase construction as a rewarding career option for young people. Over the last eight years, it has supported 1,200 apprentices through apprenticeship grants.
Recent figures from the Construction Skills Network Labour Market Intelligence Report (2024-2028) for Northern Ireland forecast a 2.8% annual growth in construction, with an additional 5,200 workers needed by 2028 to meet industry demand.
CITB NI aims to meet this need by supporting key training initiatives and encouraging the continued development of a skilled workforce capable of meeting the industry’s evolving demands. All these initiatives are explicitly designed to upskill the workforce, promote diversity, and inspire the next generation of professionals to build rewarding careers in construction.
HIGHLIGHTING SUCCESSES
The 60th Anniversary year is also an opportunity to highlight recent successes.
The Mobile Training Unit facility which has trained over 2000 individuals in health and safety courses throughout 2024.
The Adopt A School initiative, which establishes local
L-R: Helen Vint Head of Learning & Development GRAHAM, Paul Brogan Managing Director McQuillan Companies, Barry Neilson OBE Chief Executive CITB NI, Noel Brady Chair of CITB NI, Rachel Dorovatas Director at CITB NI, Vincent Hinds CITB NI facilities who has had 40 years’ service with CITB NI. (Peter O’Hara Photography)
partnerships between education and industry, is currently working with 50 employers and 86 schools.
The recent development of the simulated construction training facility at CITB NI’s Nutts Corner site, where it has operated since 1964, offers a practical, real-life training environment which will prepare individuals for the demands of the construction industry.
Additionally, the Women in Construction Summit, identified by the CITB NI-led women in construction network as a need to encourage more women into the industry, held its third summit in 2024. Welcoming over 160 delegates, the summit explored and debated a range of key industry topics, including digital technologies and the impact of AI.
BACK TO THE FUTURE WITH HERITAGE PROJECT
Building on their partnership approach, CITB NI is working with the Department for Communities Historic Environment Division, to deliver a new Heritage Project which will not only preserve,
develop, and deliver heritage skills supply and training in Northern Ireland but will seek to unlock the potential of developing future jobs and employment in the construction sector. This partnership will also help raise awareness of our built heritage, the heritage skills required and promote the preservation and development of traditional crafts and skills.
BETTER TOGETHER
A collaborative industry-driven approach is at the heart of CITB NI’s strategy for developing training and skills solutions. This entails exploring and supporting growth opportunities, and ongoing emerging challenges, including an ageing workforce, a decline in new talent entering the industry, technology advances, the drive for energy efficiency and a net-zero carbon society. Over the years, CITB NI has worked with construction industry leaders. This approach has helped to develop a collective future-focused learning strategy that concentrates on tackling these challenges, with the
interests of small and large organisations at its core. Celebrating CITB NI’s 60th anniversary Barry Neilson OBE, Chief Executive CITB NI said, “On behalf of the team at CITB NI, we thank everyone who has been on this journey with us over the years. We are delighted to mark our 60th anniversary – it is quite an achievement. We are proud to continue to support the development of our most valuable resource - our people. As we reflect on our key successes, we are all too aware of the future demands on our industry, and training and development has never been as important. “Key areas for future development in 2024 and beyond include digital construction and new technologies, sustainability and Zero Carbon, Governmental direction and a review of training interventions to support the industry most efficiently and effectively. Upskilling our existing workforce while developing new entrants equipped with the skills for the known and unknown challenges ahead will be key and will play a central role in our future approach.”
STRENGTHENING SKILLS: CITB NI RELEASES NEW STANDARDS FOR PLANT OPERATOR TRAINING
The Construction Industry Training Board Northern Ireland (CITB NI) has launched the publication of a new standard for plant operator training, supervision, and maintenance. As part of its ongoing commitment to raising skill levels and professionalism within the local construction industry, CITB NI has developed this standard, the first of its kind, to establish clear guidelines for training providers and industry professionals.
The newly published standard outlines the minimum recommended knowledge and understanding required for plant operator training, plant instructors, site supervisors, and those responsible for plant maintenance. This initiative is designed to ensure that all individuals involved in plant operations are equipped with the
necessary skills and expertise to perform their roles safely and effectively.
CITB NI Chief Executive Barry Neilson OBE, said, “The introduction of these new standards for plant operator training, supervision, and maintenance marks a significant step forward for the local construction industry. By establishing clear and rigorous guidelines, we are ensuring that our workforce is not only skilled and knowledgeable but also capable of meeting the highest safety and operational standards. With a clear focus on training, maintenance and delivery we urge all training providers to adopt these standards, as they are crucial to the continued success and development of our industry”
A copy of the publication can be downloaded here. Physical copies are available on request. Follow the discussion on Facebook, X, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Barry Neilson OBE, CITB NI Chief Executive launching the new plant standard.
WINNERS ANNOUNCED FOR THE TOP 100 MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION 2024
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is delighted to announce the winners for the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards 2024
The awards ceremony, which celebrates and honours the outstanding individuals within the sector, took place on 30 September at Birmingham’s Burlington Hotel at the start of UK Construction Week.
The National Federation of Builders hosted the Awards Ceremony, which showcased the influential women who work in construction, making female and non-binary role models more visible and accessible to inspire others, and demonstrating that the sector is open to everyone.
The Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction were also unveiled at the awards ceremony, and the UK’s Most Influential Overall accolade was awarded to Katherine Evans from Bold as Brass.
Danny Clarke, Engagement Director, England at CITB, said: “Congratulations to our award winners and to all of those shortlisted for the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction. We are delighted to recognise the incredible women and allies who are driving real change in the construction industry.
“The award ceremony and Top 100 shortlist celebrate the women who work at every level within the sector and their phenomenal achievements while inspiring others and encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in this field. We are proud to showcase those who are leading in our industry and hope to see even more applicants next year.”
Richard Beresford, Chief Executive Officer at the National Federation of Builders (NFB), said: “It was a privilege to attend the Top 100 Most Influential Awards event and celebrate
the outstanding women and allies that have gone above and beyond this year. It is a testament to the positive changes taking place in the industry and we must build on its success and continue to empower and support our women in construction.”
MELANIE DAWSON FICE, NORTHERN IRELAND’S LOCAL HERO
Melanie Dawson is the founder and Director of Origin7 and Origin7 Digital. Her company provides leading-edge BIM (Building Information Modelling) and Digital Construction Consultancy services.
Melanie is also the Co-Founder of the Digital Construction Live conference and awards. She sits on the board of Invest Northern Ireland and is an associate strategic adviser on data and digital innovation programmes to the Strategic Investment Board (SIB) Melanie graduated in architecture from Queen’s University Belfast and holds a postgraduate qualification in BIM and integrated design from the University of Salford.
WINNERS IN ALL CATEGORIES
Local Heros - exceptional women from nine different regions across the United Kingdom who are currently working at an operational or site level role in construction
Midlands: Kayleigh Merritt, Winvic Construction Ltd
East of England: Suzanne Moss, Ringway Infrastructure Services
South West: Danielle Haskings, MCS
North East: Denise Cherry, YIRTG
North West: Melissa Fazackerley, Dimension H&S Ltd
South East: Chloe Xidhas, Independent Contract Consultant
Scotland: Emily Carr, Kier Construction
N Ireland: Melanie Dawson, Origin7
Wales: Katherine Evans, Bold as Brass
Women on the Tools - for those working within a specific trade within the industry who have or are striving to inspire the next generation of construction workers
Nettie Taylor, Eliza Tay Lady Decorators
The Influencer - for those who have made a considerable and real impact at an organisational or national level within an organisation in one of three sub-categories
Allies - the only category that recognises people, no matter the gender, within the industry who are acting as key influencers in supporting inclusion and change
Alice Brookes, On the Tools
Claire Brown, Turner & Townsend
Clare Yelland, Friel
Gail Farley, HMS Works
Jason Newton, Redrow NW
Joanna Strahan, C2C Group
Lade Ogunlaja, Turner & Townsend
Magdalena Stefanick, Tilbury Douglas
Tony O’Sullivan, CPI Mortars Ltd
Kelly Cartwright, Core Recruiter
One to Watch – for industry newcomers leading the way in championing equality, diversity, inclusion and equity
Kynleigh Parker, Lovell Partnerships
SAVE THE DATE FOR SECOND McMULLAN AGRI OPEN DAY
Following on from the huge success of its open days last year, McMullan Agri is hosting its second Open Day event on the 27th and 28th of November from 10:00 am until 9:00 pm daily, at its headquarters on Carrowcrin Road, Armoy, Ballymoney BT53 8YL.
Laurence McMullan comments:
“Our last open day's event was a great opportunity for our customers to meet and socialise and to see the extensive range that we carry. It was a resounding success, and we are excited to invite everyone, customers and non-customers alike, to drop in with us to see just how extensive our product range is.
“We are distributors for wellknown and highly regarded manufacturers, and we want to use these open days to showcase the quality of the products we represent.”
McMullan Agri’s brands include specialist equipment for agriculture, soil health, grounds maintenance, and products with multiple applications across agriculture, construction, site works and transportation. These brands include:
BRITISH ISLES EXCELLENCE
The Bailey range of highquality trailers features advanced technology, components and processes, complimented by meticulous design and rigorous testing.
Aberdeenshire-based Murray Machinery manufactures material handling attachments to fit telescopic handlers, forklifts and loaders, with an extensive product range of over 30 machines with numerous variations, Closer to home, Craigavon-based SlurryKat is the market leader in designing and manufacturing slurry spreading equipment
for the farmer, farm-contractor and biogas industries.
AgriSpread International has been manufacturing agricultural machinery near Ballyhaunis, County Mayo since 2006, while Galyway-based Alstrong produces soil aerators and grassland rejuvenation equipment with a unique blade system to mitigate against soil disturbance or disruption to grazing systems. M-Tec Engineering in County Cavan produces high-quality trailers for the domestic, commercial, and agricultural sectors.
INTERNATIONAL NAMES
Danish company GreenTec offers a comprehensive stable of machines for the maintenance of green areas, while German company KRONE, pioneers technological advances in farming machinery, including disc mowers, rotary tedders, rotor rakes, forage wagons, round and square balers,
the Premos pellet harvester and a range of self-propelled machines.
Quicke is a world-leading supplier of front loaders for tractors and implements for front loaders, wheel loaders, telehandlers, and yard loaders.
AMAZONE is the specialist for fertiliser spreaders, seed drills, powered rotary cultivators, harrows, and non-powered soil cultivation equipment, Born out of the need for efficient machinery in organic farming, APV is an international specialist in green care, crop care, spreading and seeding equipment for organic use in the fields.
DEVELON CELEBRATES FIRST CUSTOMER DEMO DAYS
Develon, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, has held the company’s first Demo Days event from 23-27 September 2024 at a new site in Milovice close to Prague in the Czech Republic. Over 600 customers and dealers attended Demo Days.
Develon continued the tradition of previous events, providing customers with a unique platform
to try out the latest Develon machines in the excellent working conditions of the new Milovice venue. With over 25 different machines available, the very successful event allowed customers to try out some of the newest models and latest innovations in the Develon range.
Innovations and products featured at Demo Days 2024 included:
DEVELON AND GRAVIS ROBOTICS
Among the highlights of this year’s event was the first demonstration of autonomous equipment from a new collaboration between Develon and Gravis Robotics. With roots in Switzerland, Gravis Robotics is a university-based start-up company with over a decade of experience in construction robotics. The partnership
between Develon and Gravis Robotics aims to combine both companies’ expertise in AI-powered excavation and construction equipment technology to accelerate the development of safe, productive, sustainable and predictive autonomous excavation solutions. The new collaboration is working on autonomous machine projects at Develon to bring the next generation
DEVELON EUROPE LAUNCHES NEW USED EQUIPMENT PLATFORM
With the creation of the Remarketing Division at Develon Europe, formerly known as Doosan Construction Equipment, the company has launched a new digital platform for the company’s dealers, end-users and contractors to sell and procure used equipment from all brands on the market.
Luca Perlati, Remarketing Manager at Develon Europe, says: “Develon’s equipment business has grown significantly over the
last few years and having the best and most up-to-date tools to record, manage and sell new and used equipment is very important to maintain growth, gain market share and to increase Develon’s brand awareness.”
Develon is focused on ensuring that its dealer network is equipped with the most advanced remarketing tools available to provide the best service to its customers and to be competitive in the used equipment market, which is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
of autonomous excavators to market faster. To achieve speedier commercialisation, the partnership combines the technology and innovative solution approach at Gravis with the mechanical engineering expertise and customer base at Develon. In addition, by having a development partner in Europe, Develon believes it will be easier to meet the requirements and customisation needed for European customers.
DEVELON AND LEICA GEOSYSTEMS
Also appearing for the first time was a new aftermarket 3D machine control solution for the Develon DX225LC-7X ‘Smart’ crawler excavator, jointly developed by Develon and Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon. The DX225LC-7X excavator features Full Electric Hydraulic (FEH) technology, an integrated 2D machine guidance, and a machine control system as standard equipment. To
COLLABORATION WITH MASCUS
enhance this efficiency, the two companies have worked together to offer the Leica MC1 3D machine guidance system as a retrofit, specifically engineered to integrate seamlessly with the Develon 2D sensors and calibrations on the DX225LC-7X.
DEVELON ENTERS EUROPEAN DOZER MARKET
Develon has entered the European dozer market with the launch of the new DD130-7 model, which was shown for the first time at Demo Days. One of the biggest differences between
the DD130-7 and other dozer brands is the visibility the DD1307 provides of the machine’s dozer blade. To facilitate this, the front engine compartment offers a narrower design and several other features to make it easier for operators to see their work.
UNRIVALLED CHOICE OF PRODUCTS TO TRY OUT
Other new machines that were available for the first time at Develon Demo Days included: The new DX10Z-7 1-tonne zero tail swing mini-excavator, which provides a significantly improved
The new used equipment platform at Develon Europe has been established through a project with Mascus, a provider of used equipment management tools and Europe’s leading online classified site for buying and selling used heavy machinery and industrial vehicles. Through this collaboration, Develon Europe has ensured that quality used machinery, equipment and parts are available from its European dealer network. With the upgraded platform and additional used equipment tools, Develon aims to increase the secondhand value of all items on the market by maximising awareness and interest in high-specification European machinery.
Rickard Krøtø, Managing Director of Mascus, states: “We are thrilled to continue collaborating with Develon Europe, a global
leader in heavy construction equipment manufacturing, and count them on the growing list of major OEMs using our remarketing solutions. This relationship underlines our ongoing efforts to help dealers expand their online business. In the long run, we continue to provide local support to Develon dealers with sales and marketing advice, and valuable insights into the used equipment market.”
Luca Perlati adds: “Establishing the new Remarketing Division at the Develon Europe HQ in Prague in the Czech Republic and the further push for tools to collect, manage and sell our dealers’ used equipment is a clear indication of Develon’s strategy in Europe to provide the best solutions and services for its dealer network to make them fully competitive in an increasingly busy global market.”
The new used equipment platform is active at www.useddevelon.eu
performance compared to the previous DX10Z model it replaces, as does the new DX197 1.9 tonne conventional Stage V compliant mini-excavator.
Complementing these, the 2-tonne DX20ZE-7 electric mini-excavator combines lownoise and zero emissions with the features and performance enhancements found on the next-generation DX-7 Series family of mini-excavators. Other machines on show included the latest versions of the Develon crawler excavator range up to 53 tonne and the Develon DL-7 wheel loader range. The updated mid-range machines in the DL-7 range were represented by the DL250-7 model, presenting new features soon to be available throughout the DL-7 range. Completing the array of firsts at Demo Days were the new DL80 and DL85 compact wheel loaders from Develon.
Glendun Plant supplies Trime lighting towers and generators to John Sisk & Son
Glendun Plant, one of Ireland’s foremost plant and machinery distributors, has received multiple orders for a fleet of X-BOX static lighting towers and the latest Stage 5, 6.0kVA generators from the specialist contractors John Sisk & Sons Ltd.
Commenting on this latest investment, Barry Murphy, Plant Operations Manager at John Sisk & Son Ltd, said, “These ecofriendly Trime X-Box static lighting towers will run on HVO, (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) fuel with long-running fuel tanks, and are fitted with a timer option for improved energy efficiency. That’s the good news; the bad news is these have already been sent to a new site down the country.”
Barry added, “We’ve also added the first of the new look Trime UK 6.0kVA Eco Stage 5 generators into our line-up. These innovative units feature auto start/stop technology. Likewise, these generators are also fully HVO-approved. Just like your car’s start/ stop system, these generators power down when not needed and instantly power back up when it’s time to work.”
The Trime X-BOX lighting towers are part of a wide range of lighting solutions from Trime. They manufacture engine-powered sets, hybrid units and solar-only lighting towers. Trime also has an extensive line of power generation products from 6.0 to 100kVA, emission-free battery packs, and a range of ultra-silent sets.
Glendun Plant is the main dealer and distributor for Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for a wide range of construction machinery. They stock a
full range of machines, spare parts, and accessories, often ready for same-day delivery. The company was incorporated in 2014 and is based in Dungannon, Co. Tyrone. Founded in Cork and family-owned Sisk is an innovative, international construction and engineering business and over 165 years in operation, with a long-term vision. Sisk employs approximately 2,500 people. It is Ireland’s leading provider of construction services, alongside extensive operations across Ireland, the United Kingdom and mainland Europe. Sisk delivers projects and programmes in key sectors such as Data and Technology, Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences, Infrastructure, Transportation, Healthcare, Commercial, Residential, Retail, Industrial, Leisure, Education and Energy.
Trime is regarded as the leading manufacturer and supplier of sustainable lighting towers in the UK and Ireland construction rental markets. Its UK offices are in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, and its production facility is near Milan, Italy.
Profits grow at JCB as market outlook becomes more uncertain
Profits at construction equipment manufacturer JCB rose to £805.8 million in 2023. Sales turnover grew to £6.5 billion, and machine sales increased to 123,228. The Group maintained a strong balance sheet with no net borrowings throughout 2023.
JCB CEO Graeme Macdonald said: “Despite a global market for construction and agricultural machinery which shrank by 4.3% in 2023, JCB’s sales increased by 14% to £6.5 billion.
“North America remains the world’s largest market for construction equipment, and JCB’s sales there grew strongly during 2023. JCB’s business in India also performed well in a
growing market, and while the UK market remained largely flat in 2023, JCB increased its share of the market. The fullyear market outlook for 2024 is less positive, with challenging conditions in the UK and Europe, particularly in Germany, where economic activity has declined sharply during 2024. In the UK, housebuilding
activity has contracted, which is having a negative impact on machine utilisation.”
JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford said: “Our family company, JCB, continues to invest both in new production capacity and in product innovation. Earlier this year, we broke ground on our new factory in San Antonio, Texas. The company’s ongoing
investment in innovative new machines, such as the recently launched JCB Pothole Pro designed to tackle the global scourge of potholes, together with our continued focus on the development of hydrogen combustion engines for our equipment in the future, puts JCB in a strong position for further long-term growth.”
recycling & waste management
CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION WASTE INCURS NEW LEVY IN IRELAND
The Construction and Demolition (C&D) Waste Regulations came into force in Ireland on 1 September 2024, with the aim of enhancing the management and recycling of C&D waste in alignment with circular economy principles.
The regulations are part of Ireland’s broader strategy to manage waste and reduce its environmental impact, particularly as C&D waste is the largest single waste stream in the EU.
Initially, C&D waste disposed at landfills under the Landfill Levy will not be charged the full €85/tonne levy rate; instead, a lower rate of €10 per tonne will be introduced for this waste stream. C&D waste going to recovery will be levied at €10 per tonne under the waste recovery levy.
The 1st of September marked the first of our four phases of the C&D exemption removal in a transitional approach to mitigate costs and enable the industry to adopt new procedures to utilise by-product classification as appropriate.
The regulations encourage the reuse of materials classified as by-products rather than waste. This includes soil and stone, which comprise the majority of C&D waste. Producers are encouraged to register these materials as by-products, provided they meet specific criteria, and avoid unnecessary disposal, enhancing their lifecycle within the economy.
The regulations also introduce provisions for materials to achieve “end-of-waste” status, where fully recovered materials can be reused as valuable resources rather than being classified as waste.
FASTEST-GROWING WASTE STREAM
The Regulations were introduced by Green Party TD Eamon Ryan, who is currently Minister for Environment, Climate and
Communications and Minister for Transport. Speaking in Dáil Éireann. Ryan said: “A landfill levy on the disposal of waste at landfills has been in place for more than two decades, currently levied at €85 per tonne and, as of the 1st September 2023, there is also a waste recovery levy on the incineration, co-incineration, backfilling and waste exported for recovery currently levied at €10 per tonne.
“To date, Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste has been exempt from these environmental levies. However, C&D is the fastest-growing waste stream, accounting for over half of the total waste currently being generated in Ireland, with only 8% being recycled or reused. Given that substantial volumes of this weight are potentially preventable, re-usable or recyclable, it presents a significant opportunity for Ireland’s transition to a more circular economy.
“The purpose of removing this exemption for C&D waste is to incentivise the construction industry to reduce the amount of C&D waste it currently sends to waste recovery or disposal and reuse the material in accordance with the EPA Circular Economy initiatives to achieve cost savings.”
BROWNFIELD EXEMPTION
The Construction Industry Federation has responded positively to the phasing out of waste recovery and landfill levy exemptions for C&D waste. Hubert Fitzpatrick, Director General of the Federation, commented: “It is a shared objective of both Government and industry to reduce construction waste. The federation is fully supportive of the circular economy and the principle of sustainability across the construction industry.”
Fitzpatrick added: “An exemption will remain in place to support brownfield development, benefiting from existing infrastructure. This approach is consistent with Ireland’s latest National Development Plan, which prioritises brownfield development within the context of sustainable urban growth and environmental protection.”
Conor Walsh, Secretary of the Irish Waste Management Association, said: “Ireland is not on track to meet the EU 2025 target of 55% recycling of municipal wastes; currently, just 41% of municipal waste is recycled. In that context, we support the Government’s efforts to encourage better segregation of wastes in households and in businesses. However, we need to see all agencies – Government, local authorities, waste operators and other organisations such as Repak and WEEE compliance schemes come together to actively promote a national effort to increase our recycling rates. Introducing this levy on waste will not achieve its desired effect without a national consumer awareness campaign”.
Eamon Ryan TD courtesy of OIREACHTAS.
DUST CONTROL & DENSITY
BUILT TO LAST
BUILT TO LAST
Can supress dust within
THE SCREENPOD PORTAVAC RANGE
Portable Skip-mounted Vacuums for dust free cleanup
PV300D and PV300E are compact industrial vacuums with a wide range mobile and capable of handling a wide in sizes ranging from fine dust to large outdoor applications. The vacuum has its integrated skip for material collection that’s easily forklift.
The Screenpod Portavac PV300D and PV300E are compact yet powerful self-contained industrial vacuums with a wide range of attachments. They’re fully mobile and capable of handling a wide variety of different materials in sizes ranging from fine dust to large debris in both indoor and outdoor applications. The vacuum has its own high-capacity, integrated skip for material collection that’s easily emptied via the use of a forklift.
PV400BFH offers the same as the PV300E but with its own high for material collection, from via a dump valve into a container Bulk Bags.
The Screenpod Portavac PV400BFH offers the same as the Screenpod PV300D and PV300E but with its own high capacity, integrated hopper for material collection, from which material is emptied via a dump valve into a container such as a skip or FIBCs & Bulk Bags.
Screenpod Portavac encompass such as manufacturers of; Pharmaceuticals; • Cement; • Lime; Concrete; • Chemicals; • Steel mills
The applications for the Screenpod Portavac encompass a vast range of industries, such as manufacturers of;
sections, the main body and the skip, otherwise know as the hopper sits tight to the main body, creating an airtight seal. powerful blower fan which, during operation, drop hopper. main body via a coupling on the front. various attachments for catching dust & debris, vacuum cleaner. the drop hopper generates a suction through the dirt & debris to be sucked up through it. the machine, it falls into the drop hopper. will continue to collect here until the hopper is full. captured by the incorporated air filtration system. emptied by simply removing it from the machine and within it via the in-built tipping mechanism. It can be refitted, go again.
Powered from a 32A
Available in 50Hz and
Electrical control panel layout for straightforward
High speed fan and motor
Large volume water pump
Claw connector for inlet
Pump run dry protection • Inlet water filter with element for maintenance • Can run from either mains
• The machine consists of 2 sections, the main body and the skip, otherwise know as the ‘drop hopper’. The drop hopper sits tight to the main body, creating an airtight seal.
• The main body contains a powerful blower fan which, during operation, creates a vacuum with the drop hopper.
• A hose is connected to the main body via a coupling on the front. The hose can be fitted with various attachments for catching dust & debris, similar to a conventional vacuum cleaner.
• The vacuum produced with the drop hopper generates a suction through the connected hose, allowing any dirt & debris to be sucked up through it.
• As the material is sucked into the machine, it falls into the drop hopper. During operation, material will continue to collect here until the hopper is full. Any airborne dust will be captured by the incorporated air filtration system.
• Once full, the hopper can be emptied by simply removing it from the machine and tipping out the material within it via the in-built tipping mechanism. It can be refitted, and the machine is ready to go again.
For detailed descriptions of the three products including full benefits and clean-up applications, please visit our website at www.screenpod.co.uk/range/#vacs
AIRVAC
• 350 degrees of rotation
• Automatic slew with adjustable stoppers to set angle of rotation
• Electrically operated elevation
Designed for effective dust control – The Screenpod Dust Cannons help minimise dust, reduce health risks and improve air quality
• Water nozzles producing a fine mist for supressing dust
• Can supress dust within a 45m radius
• Adjustable water output
• Powered from a 32A power supply
• Water drain valves
• Available in 50Hz and 60Hz versions
• Fork pocket base frame and lifting eyes for easy mobility
S45 STATIC DUST CANNON
• Electrical control panel with simple layout for straightforward operation
• High speed fan and motor
• Large volume water pump
• Claw connector for inlet water supply
• Pump run dry protection
supply or water tank
• 350 degrees of rotation
• Automatic slew with adjustable stoppers to set angle of rotation
• Electrically operated elevation
• Water nozzles producing a fine mist for supressing dust
• Adjustable water output
• Water drain valves
S45 STATIC DUST CANNON
• 415V 3-Phase 30kW Electric Motor
• Heavy Duty Suction Fan
• Inlet water filter with removable element for maintenance
• Can run from either mains water
• User friendly interface for straightforward operation
• Variable speed controls for infinitely variable fan speed
S65 STATIC DUST CANNON
• Robust steel frame with lifting eyes and forklift pockets for easy transportation
• 4 x Telescopic Legs for adjustable working height and excellent stability
• Access doors and removable panels for excellent service access
• Fork pocket base frame and lifting eyes for easy mobility
• Lockable door latches with removable keys for security
• 3 Emergency Stops located around periphery of machine
• 415V 3-Phase 30kW Electric Motor
• Heavy Duty Suction Fan
• Fast On-Site Set-Up time
– Less than 10 minutes
• User friendly interface for straightforward operation
• Mains connection on lead for plugging into power supply
• Variable speed controls for infinitely variable fan speed
• Requires 36KVA generator minimum for operation
• Robust steel frame with lifting eyes and forklift pockets for easy transportation
• 4 x Telescopic Legs for adjustable working height and excellent stability
Offering outstanding separation of lights and heavies from conveyed material waste streams, the Screenpod Airvac Range is easily implemented into any materials processing operation across various applications. Available in both diesel and electric drive variants, the machines are adaptable to both blower and suction functionality, providing high throughput and low operating costs, with minimal maintenance requirements and a fast setup time, from a compact and easily transported package, all controlled from a clear and user-friendly interface
415V 3-Phase 30kW Electric Motor
Heavy Duty Suction Fan
User friendly interface for straightforward operation
Variable speed controls for infinitely variable fan speed
Robust steel frame with lifting eyes and forklift pockets for easy transportation
4 x Telescopic Legs for adjustable working height and excellent stability
51.7kW (70.3 HP) EU Stage V /
Tier Final Yanmar Engine
Heavy Duty Suction Fan
Pre-cleaner on engine air-intake
Engine Controller with display showing all engine parameters
litre fuel tank with externally accessible fuel filler cap and level gauge
maintenance V-Belt drive
heavy duty belt tensioner
Robust steel frame with lifting eyes
• Access doors and removable panels for excellent service access
• Lockable door latches with removable keys for security
• 3 Emergency Stops located around periphery of machine
• Fast On-Site Set-Up time
– Less than 10 minutes
• Mains connection on lead for plugging into power supply
• Requires 36KVA generator minimum for operation
Offering outstanding separation of lights and heavies from conveyed material waste streams, the Screenpod Airvac Range is easily implemented into any materials processing operation across various applications. Available in both diesel and electric drive variants, the machines are adaptable to both blower and suction functionality, providing high throughput and low operating costs, with minimal maintenance requirements and a fast setup time, from a compact and easily transported package, all controlled from a clear and user-friendly interface
• Access doors and removable panels for excellent service access
• 415V 3-Phase 30kW Electric Motor
• Lockable door latches with removable keys for security
• Heavy Duty Suction Fan
• User friendly interface for straightforward operation
• 3 Emergency Stops located around periphery of machine
• Variable speed controls for infinitely variable fan speed
• Fast On-Site Set-Up time –Less than 10 minutes
• Robust steel frame with lifting eyes and forklift pockets for easy transportation
• Mains connection on lead for plugging into power supply
• 4 x Telescopic Legs for adjustable working height and excellent stability
• Requires 36KVA generator minimum for operation
AIRVAC 52 1600S
• 51.7kW (70.3 HP) EU Stage V /
• Access doors and removable panels for excellent service access
• Lockable door latches with removable keys for security
• 3 Emergency Stops located around periphery of machine
• Fast On-Site Set-Up time –Less than 10 minutes
• Mains connection on lead for plugging into power supply
• Requires 36KVA generator minimum for operation
and forklift pockets for easy transportation
EPA Tier Final Yanmar Engine
• Heavy Duty Suction Fan
• 4 x Telescopic Legs for adjustable working height and excellent stability
• Pre-cleaner on engine air-intake
• Engine Controller with display showing all engine parameters
• Large access doors and removable panels for excellent service access
• 135 litre fuel tank with externally
• Lockable door latches with removable keys for security
accessible fuel filler cap and level gauge
• Low maintenance V-Belt drive with heavy duty belt tensioner
• 3 Emergency Stops located around periphery of machine
• Robust steel frame with lifting eyes and forklift pockets for easy transportation
• Fast On-Site Set-Up time –Less than 10 minutes
• 4 x Telescopic Legs for adjustable working height and excellent stability
• Large access doors and removable panels for excellent service access
• Lockable door latches with removable keys for security
• 3 Emergency Stops located around periphery of machine
• Fast On-Site Set-Up time –Less than 10 minutes
For detailed descriptions of the these five products including full benefits and clean-up applications, please visit our website at www.screenpod.co.uk/range/
For detailed descriptions of the these five products including full benefits and clean-up applications, please visit our website at www.screenpod.co.uk/range/
recycling & waste management
Hightown Quarry Landfill Ltd has invested in EvoQuip’s Bison 340 jaw crusher and a Colt 1600 heavy-duty screener from FJS Ltd to elevate its operations
Hightown Quarry Landfill’s site on the Hightown Road, Newtownabbey, currently comprises a worked basalt quarry adjacent to an existing inert landfill site. Prior to the present owner, Mrs Laura Mclaughlin, the land was quarried by RMO on a mining lease from the early 1970s until 1984, when the site was closed.
Mrs Laura Mclaughlin and her late husband, Mr Victor Mclaughlin, reopened the site as an inert landfill site on 1 March 1989 and, in the early 1990s, acquired a licence for mixed builder’s waste. This continued until December 2008, when laws changed to recycling, and the site became inert once more.
Another phase began in April 2018 when the site was granted a licence to quarry stone. In the beginning, crushers and screeners were hired as the amount and quality of stone could only be estimated. However, time proved that good quality stone was plentiful, and the owner decided to purchase her own crusher and screeners, thus allowing the site to run more smoothly. Contractors can now tip their clay and collect their stone in a single run, thus saving them both time and fuel costs, which is so important in this day and age.
ABOUT FJS
FJS Ltd has been in operation since 1993 and is now one of the leading providers of construction, agricultural and ground care machinery in Ireland. Based out of Naas, in Co Kildare, FJS is determined to stay ahead in the machinery industry and has recently opened new premises to maximise customer support.
The company is a premier full-line dealer for all Kubota products. They offer the full range of Kubota excavators from 0.8 ton upwards. FJS Ltd is also the main dealer for LiuGong Machinery, which includes excavators 9 - 95 tonne, FRD Rock breaker. In fact, FJS offers everything from powerful tractors to domestic mowers, and when it comes to agricultural machinery, the company has everything from compact 18hp tractors to professional 170hp Tractors.
FJS AND EVOQUIP
FJS ltd is the dedicated dealer for the EvoQuip brand of crushing, screening, and recycling equipment for the entire Island of Ireland. The EvoQuip range includes jaw and impact crushers, scalping and incline screens, shredders and conveying equipment. These machines are suitable for many industries, including building and construction, agriculture and landscaping, plant hire, recycling, and quarrying.
The partnership between FJS and EvoQuip was deepened when Michael Garvey, who worked for EvoQuip, joined the team at FJS. Michael has a wealth of experience and knowledge gained from years of dedication and leadership within the screening and crushing industry. Based in County Armagh, Michael is the Heavy Line Business Unit Manager and is responsible for FJS operations within the North.
THE EVOQUIP BISON 340 JAW CRUSHER
Designed for operators in quarrying, demolition, recycling, and mining applications, the Bison 340 provides impressive power and performance within a small footprint, making it suitable for projects that require efficient, on-site crushing without the need for large, cumbersome equipment. Its compact design and track mobility allow fast set-up and easy manoeuvrability, and the Bison 340 is ideal for small-space applications while maintaining productivity. Despite being compact, the Bison 340 delivers powerful crushing capabilities. With a jaw inlet of 39”x23.6”/1000mm x 600mm, this versatile jaw crusher boasts a two-piece grizzly feeder, allowing better material flow towards the chamber, and it is capable of
recycling & waste management
handling a variety of materials, from rock to concrete, with consistent output and high reduction rates. It features a variable crusher speed that allows the operator to fine-tune the machine and maximise output – its output potential is 280 tonnes per hour. A hydrostatic drive system offers versatility and allows the crusher to be operated in reverse, of particular benefit in recycling applications.
THE COLT 1600 SCREENER
The Colt 1600 is a highly versatile and robust screening machine in the EvoQuip line-up. Designed for medium to large-scale screening in primary and secondary applications, its powerful screening capabilities make it suited for processing materials like topsoil, gravel sand, and crushed stone. With a screening area of 16 feet by 5 feet, the Colt 1600 maximises throughput and efficiency. This makes it capable of processing large volumes of material with
precision and is suitable for demanding applications that need high-capacity screening. With single, triple shaft and Spaleck screen box options, allowing it to adapt to various materials and end-product specifications, the applications are endless.
The screenbox angle on the Colt 1600 can be adjusted between 18° and 30°, which helps optimise material flow depending on the application and material type. Flexibility is enhanced with configurable conveyor options and two-way split conversion. Tall discharge heights can be improved further with optional telescopic conveyors, and the wide array of screen media available, including finger screens, punch plates, and mesh screens, makes this the perfect multi-purpose machine.
The Colt 1600 is powered by a fuel-efficient engine, keeping operational costs low and is also available with dual power technology giving flexibility to be powered by an external power supply or the standard on-board engine. The Colt 1600 offers high output
(600 tonnes per hour), ease of mobility, and versatile screening capabilities.
MEETING CUSTOMER NEEDS
Chris Beattie, Hightown Quarry Manager, said: “Our EvoQuip Bison 340 and Colt 1600 supplied by FJS are a perfect pair here at Hightown. We produce natural quarried aggregate and process construction demolition waste into a clean, recycled, usable product. The machines and support from FJS have surpassed our needs at Hightown Quarry, and they provide a great solution to our expanding business operations.”
Hightown Quarry Landfill is an extremely impressive site located above Belfast that serves multiple needs for local recycling and quarrying customers; the site is located close to the beautiful Cave Hill Country Park, which also boasts great views of the city.
Michael Garvey from FFJS Plant concluded: “It has been a pleasure working closely with Laura and her team and we look forward to strengthening our relationship going forward.”
Michael Garvey and Chris Beattie, Hightown Quarry Manager.
REVOLUTIONISING THE FUTURE WITH THE TRAKMIX 250
In an era where sustainability and efficiency are paramount, the TRAKMIX 250 from Rapid International stands out as a beacon of innovation. This cutting-edge mixer not only enhances operational productivity but also addresses the pressing need for environmentally responsible solutions.
The TRAKMIX 250 is designed for versatility, seamlessly adapting to a variety of job sites and conditions. Its robust build and compact size make it ideal for urban projects, where space is often at a premium. The mixer’s advanced technology
reliable choice for contractors across multiple industries.
emissions without compromising on performance. By integrating
Moreover, the user-friendly design of the TRAKMIX 250 enhances operator safety and efficiency. With intuitive controls and a streamlined setup process, even those new to the industry can operate this mixer with ease. Rapid International’s dedication to customer support further ensures that users can maximize the potential of their equipment, fostering a culture of excellence and reliability in construction.
As we look to the future, the TRAKMIX 250 symbolises a pivotal shift. By prioritising efficiency, versatility, and sustainability, Rapid International is not just
recycling & waste management
CALLAN RECYCLING TAKES DELIVERY OF BRAND-NEW TEREX ECOTEC
SH REDDER FROM QRS
Kildare waste handler Callan Recycling is among the first Irish companies to take delivery of a new Terex Ecotec high-speed shredder following Quarrying and Recycling Solutions (QRS) appointment as the sole distributor for the brand in Ireland.
Originally appointed to represent the full range of Terex Ecotec’s industry-leading wood processing, biomass and recycling equipment for Northern Ireland and Donegal back in 2019, this year, the distributorship was extended to the rest of the island of Ireland. QRS appointed Gary Fekkes to look after the Irish territory, and he has wasted no time in attracting new customers.
“Initially, I was knocking on doors, introducing myself and building relationships, and that’s how I met Callan Recycling,” says Gary. “They gave me a tour of the facility and mentioned they might be in the market for a high-speed shredder, as the shredder they
had was beginning to age and present some issues. That started a serious conversation.
“Eventually, we demoed one of our highspeed shredders from our hire fleet, and then we sat down and talked, and they ended up purchasing a brand-new Terex Ecotec TBG530.
We took Tommy Callan to visit a customer of ours in the north who had already purchased a TBG 530 new from us, and when he saw it in action, the deal was made.
“Callan Recycling took delivery of the new machine within a 8 weeks of placing the order, so it was an exceptionally fast turnaround.”
SHREDDING IN ACTION AT CALLAN RECYCLING
Callen Recycling combines a skip-hire business, specialising primarily in construction and demolition waste (C&D) with associated recycling facilities. Based in Drinnanstown, County Kildare, the company is one of Ireland’s largest waste management facilities. It has an extensive skip fleet in a wide range of size options, up to 45 cubic yards (just over 34m3) and serves customers throughout counties Dublin, Kildare, Laois, Meath, Offaly and Wicklow. Managing Director of Callan Recycling, Tommy Callan, explains the operation. “Construction and demolition waste from returning skips is segregated on picking lines, isolating different materials such as rubble, concrete, timber, plastics, and metals, which are then moved to the appropriate bay.
“The Terex Ecotec TBG 530 was particularly attractive for our timber recycling operation, “continues Tommy Callan. “We have
recycling & waste management
significant demand for recycled timber and, with its speed and efficiency, this machine is already proving to be a sound investment. Its ability to process large timber items to standardised sizes, delivered very significant volume reduction to weight, allowing us to dispatch more product, much more quickly.
“It was this shredder’s speed that really sold the machine to us – it is processing 65 tonnes per hour and we are very pleased with its performance. I should add that we have also been impressed with the level of service from Gary and QRS,” concludes Tommy.
THE LOWDOWN ON THE TEREX ECOTEC TBG 530
Terex Ecotec’s TBG 530T is a robust, trackmounted high-speed shredder ideal for medium-scale producers requiring an accurate and consistent end product.
Powered by a 493HP Scania DC13 engine, the TBG 530T has been expertly designed to give operators unrivalled performance, ease of maintenance and superb fuel efficiency. Extremely versatile, it excels in many applications and is particularly suited to waste wood processing and green waste shredding.
With a rapid set up time, the TBG 530T is ready to work in a matter of minutes with no tooling required. The open-fronted feeder enables the TBG 530T to be fed quickly and easily from the rear. The intelligently controlled feed system, comprising heavy-duty drag chains and an aggressive feed wheel with unique lift/downward assist, ensures optimum
material flow, resulting in classleading performance.
At the heart of the machine is the 1,100mm diameter x 1,490mm wide swinging hammer rotor. This robust, direct-drive rotor rotates at 1000 RPM and incorporates 30 up-swinging hammers. A wide selection of hammer designs and interchangeable screens are available, allowing the machine to be configured to suit the ever-changing product requirements. The TBG 530T also benefits from the added protection of a screen kickback system. Should an unshreddable object enter the shredding chamber, the screen will release, allowing the material to quickly pass through, reducing the risk of accidental damage. Processed material is removed from the machine via a modular product conveyor with an impressive discharge height of 4.6m. This conveyor also lowers to ground level for inspection and maintenance. An optional overband magnet with hydraulic height adjustment can be fitted to remove ferrous metal from the product.
Whether performing daily checks or carrying out maintenance, the TBG 530T offers unrivalled service access to all key areas of the machine. The electric/hydraulic raise/lower of the screen and interlocked chamber access door allow the rotor and anvil to be inspected with ease. Designed with the operator in mind, the TBG 530T offers the perfect blend of performance, efficiency and serviceability.
Gary Fekkes QRS and right is Tommy from Callan Recycling who will be operating the machine.
recycling & waste management
NEW DEVELON WHEEL LOADER FOR WASTE HANDLING WORK
Develon, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, used the Resource & Waste Management (RWM) show, held at the NEC in Birmingham in September, to present a new design of wheel loader aimed at the waste handling industry for the first time. Based on the successful Develon DL280-7 wheel loader model, part of the awardwinning DL-7 range of wheel loaders from Develon, the new waste wheel loader pre-production model on the Develon Stand Number ME-A120 at RWM increases safety and efficiency for the operator.
PERFORMANCE FEATURES BY DESIGN
The new waste wheel loader has a novel design featuring a strong, lightweight loader frame and a unique and innovative lifting arm that minimises the front end weight of the machine, providing an impressive super high lift and reach capability to deliver a higher dump height, whilst maintaining excellent manoeuvrability. The lightweight loader frame offers optimum strength, while heavy-duty axles contribute to its exceptional stability. The super high reach of the new Develon waste wheel loader is designed for loading material into high-sided containers such as walking or moving floor trailers specially developed for transporting waste. The new waste loader is equipped with a high tip bucket supported by two robust cylinders for assured loading. The lower bucket pivot pins have internal greasing lines to prevent them being damaged by material carried by the loader.
The new loader incorporates a waste kit with heavy engineering and strength at its core. It includes an exoskeleton around the machine and further protection provided by mesh-type windshield guards, articulation guards, belly protection and fuel tank guards. The unit also features an air intake mesh, and the cab has specialised air filtration. Other features of the new waste loader include a reversible fan to clear the radiator, a heavyduty radiator guard, rim covers for the wheels and solid tyres with suspension cut outs.
Safety features include high visibility chevrons on the rear of the machine and a fire suppression system, with internal and external actuation points on the front and rear of the loader.
SPACIOUS ERGONOMIC CAB DESIGN
Inside the spacious cab, the new waste wheel loader offers significantly enhanced operating comfort, with joystick controls and a leather type upgraded operator seat. The seat is equipped with fully adjustable horizontal and vertical suspension settings, a pneumatic lumbar function and seat heating as standard. There is a 3-point safety belt with alarm icons
on the 8 inch touchscreen monitor and on the gauge panel, which features a new layout and anti-reflective glass. The operator can also benefit from an optional 360o camera system with AI person detection to ensure the safety of personnel in close vicinity to the machine.
The operator has an excellent field of vision from the cab, with the large glass window area minimising blind spots around the cab. The new waste wheel loader also offers the option of electrically adjustable rear-view mirrors for added safety.
Full LED working lights are installed on the cab (four on both the front and rear as standard, with the option of six each at the front and rear). For higher pedestrian safety, the LED lights on the rear bonnet have
an automatic strobe function to indicate when the wheel loader is reversing.
The information at the operator’s fingertips on the touchscreen includes the feed from the optional weighing system, the HVAC controls (heating, ventilation and air conditioning), radio and bluetooth devices (music streaming, hands-free) and the operator help function. Overall, the cab interior offers a large, quiet and more comfortable operator environment, which improves safety and productivity and helps the operator work with high concentration. The operator also has increased legroom, an enlarged storage area and cool-box position and an improved air conditioning system (with optimised air circulation).
recycling & waste management
TEREX RECYCLING SYSTEMS LAUNCHES THE TSD-280 DRUM SCREEN
Terex® Recycling Systems, a manufacturer of modular recycling plants and products, has introduced the TSD280 Drum Screen. Designed for heavy-duty processing, the TSD-280 enhances recycling operations by presorting bulky construction and industrial waste and providing a steady, efficient flow of materials.
Capable of handling raw, unsorted C&D and C&I waste of all sizes, the TSD-280 efficiently separates bulky materials from the waste
stream, eliminating the need for additional manual sorting. It also improves overall sorting efficiency by preventing jams and providing a more consistent flow of material, reducing downtime and increasing productivity. With less extensive pre-sorting activities, the TSD-280 provides customers with higher capacity and improved material purity. The drum screen produces a more consistent material size, resulting in higher-quality recyclables and reduced contamination. Additional benefits include reduced labour costs by eliminating the need
for additional material handlers and operators, as well as greater environmental sustainability by contributing to a more efficient and sustainable recycling process.
Kenny Hull, Product & Commercial Manager, Terex Recycling Systems, commented: “The TSD-280 Drum Screen is designed to support recycling facilities by improving operational efficiency and contributing to sustainability efforts. It is an excellent choice for presorting bulky construction and industrial waste, which can either be disposed of, sorted,
or shredded for reintroduction into the process. This results in a more consistent and efficient sorting operation, producing higher-quality recyclables with reduced contamination.”
The TSD-280 is available to order now in various sizes to meet specific needs and application requirements. It is also available either as a standalone pre-sorting line or integrated into existing and new recycling systems. For more information please visit: https://www.terex.com/ recycling/tsd-280- drum-screen
KEENAN RECYCLING POWERS HEART WITH SMART GROUP’S SUSTAINABILITY GOALS FOR PIZZA HUT RESTAURANTS
Keenan Recycling, the UK’s largest provider of sustainable food waste management solutions, has achieved a significant milestone by securing its largest-ever direct national food waste contract with Heart with Smart Group, which is the sole franchisee operator of Pizza Hut Restaurants in the UK.
Keenan Recycling is now responsible for collecting food waste from all Heart with Smart Group’s Pizza Hut Restaurants across the United Kingdom. The nationwide operation has diligently collected food waste from their restaurants, diverting it from landfills. This significant achievement demonstrates Keenan Recycling’s commitment to sustainability and its ability to deliver exceptional service on a national scale.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Since July 2024, Keenan Recycling has collected 189 tonnes of food waste from all Heart with Smart Group’s Pizza Hut Restaurants across the UK. This achievement is a testament to its efficient and reliable food waste collection services.
To minimise environmental footprint, the company utilises a combination of diesel and HVO trucks for collections. This strategic approach has resulted in a reduction of six tonnes of CO2 emissions in just two months, solely from transportation. By diverting 123 tonnes of food waste from landfill, Keenan has prevented the release of an equivalent amount of CO2 into the atmosphere. This saved CO2 has been harnessed to produce renewable energy through anaerobic digestion
(AD). That’s enough clean energy to power 15 British households for an entire year!
Keenan Recycling’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of operations, from the choice of vehicles to innovative recycling processes.
Grant Keenan (MD) and Mark Coleman (Depot Supervisor) Keenan Recycling with Aaron Oreschnick, Pizza Hut Restaurant Manager.
NEW BOBCAT FLEET FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND DRAINAGE PROJECTS
PSR Turnkey Solutions Ltd, based in Rotherham in South Yorkshire in the UK, has purchased new Bobcat mini-excavators and a new Bobcat compact track loader for use on the company’s renewable energy and drainage projects across the UK.
The new Bobcat equipment has been supplied by AMS Bobcat Limited, based in Scunthorpe, the Authorised Bobcat Dealer for Lincolnshire and South and East Yorkshire.
The new machines comprise a Bobcat E19 1.9 tonne and two E27z 2.7 tonne miniexcavators and a T450 compact track loader.
AN EXPERT IN RENEWABLES AND DRAINAGE SOLUTIONS
PSR Turnkey Solutions is a leading civil engineering and construction company committed to building a better future for local communities in the UK. It focuses on building infrastructure for the rapidly expanding renewable energy industry and drainage projects.
Paul Strutt, Managing Director of PSR Turnkey Solutions, commented, “We specialise in building the infrastructure for the growing renewables market, from preparing the foundations for concrete plinths for rechargers for electric vehicles to building battery energy storage systems (BESS) to support the National Grid.”
The new Bobcat equipment has already been employed in contracts as far apart as Scotland and West London. In fact, one of the two new E27z mini-excavators is currently working on the installation of an environmentally friendly air source heating system to replace gas boilers at a leisure centre in Ruislip to the west of London.
Paul Strutt added: “We moved from another brand when we bought the Bobcat machines. We were impressed by the design and the performance of the Bobcat excavators and the new loader. The presentation by AMS Bobcat and the support they will provide was also crucial in the purchase decision, and we look forward to working closely with AMS and Bobcat in the future.”
ATTACHMENT CAPABILITY OF T450 ADDS VERSATILITY
One of the most attractive features of the new Bobcat M-Series T450 compact track loader for PSR Turnkey Systems is its attachment capability. There is a wide choice of different types of Bobcat attachment that can be combined quickly and safely with the T450, via the quick-change Bob-Tach
attachment mounting system. This delivers versatility and time-saving efficiency across a huge range of different applications.
Paul Strutt continued: “The T450 is a very handy addition to our fleet. One of the first attachments we bought was a sweeper for on-site clean-up. I also see the T450 as a replacement for dumpers as it doesn’t have to be filled up by other machines on-site as it can do all that work itself.”
HIGH-PERFORMANCE MINI-EXCAVATORS
The E19 mini-excavator delivers impressive performance in confined spaces with the need for only minimal repositioning. The operator can hydraulically retract the undercarriage to a width of only 98 cm in order to travel through gates or between walls and houses, then expand it to 136 cm for a wider footprint and greater performance.
The E27z is part of Bobcat’s R-Series miniexcavators from 2-4 tonne, comprising four more models – the E26, E27, E34 and E35z. All five machines offer a best-in-class mix of high digging forces, superb stability and smooth controllability of working functions complemented by low weights for easy transportation. The new E27z with its cab and bucket has an operating weight of 2700 kg, a maximum digging depth of 2847 mm and maximum reach at ground level of 4814 mm.
INFRASTRUCTURE FOR UTILISING RENEWABLE ENERGY
Battery storage, or battery energy storage systems (BESS), enable energy from renewables, like solar and wind, to be stored and released when the power is most needed. Battery storage technologies are therefore
deemed essential in replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy, playing an increasingly pivotal role between green energy supplies and responding to electricity demands.
Paul Strutt added: “Currently, lithium-ion batteries, which are used in mobile phones and electric cars, are the dominant storage technology for large-scale plants to help electricity grids ensure a reliable supply of renewable energy. We’ve begun deploying this technology with heavier equipment, working with a company that makes battery storage systems for industrial, commercial and residential buildings.”
BOBCAT DEALER AMS- MORE THAN 4000 MACHINES SOLD
Established in 1992, Scunthorpe-based AMS Bobcat is one of the longest-standing Bobcat dealers in Europe and has been in partnership with Bobcat in the UK for over 30 years. Over that time, AMS has sold over 4000 new Bobcat units into a range of industries, including construction, agriculture, shipping, plant hire, mining, landscaping and demolition. With this level of experience, it is not surprising that AMS offers an excellent level of expertise and knowledge of the Bobcat range and its other products, whether it be new and used equipment sales, parts supply, service repairs or long- and short-term rental. AMS also offers a complete selection of genuine Bobcat accessories and parts to support new and existing Bobcat customers in its area. Customers benefit from AMS’s well-established on-site service network, covering everything from emergency repairs to routine maintenance. The company offers flexible service agreements, including 24-hour-a-day coverage, depending on the customer’s requirements.
WASTEMASTERS GROUP GOES ELECTRIC WITH JCB
One of the UK’s leading waste and recycling equipment hirers has invested in a fleet of JCB electric Teletruks.
Coventry-based Wastemasters Group has taken delivery of three new JCB 35-22E Teletruk models, which join its massive fleet of more than 80 JCB Wastemaster machines which the company hires to waste and recycling customers across the UK.
Wastemasters Group Director Paul Labram said: “We are always looking for ways to help our customers reduce their carbon footprint, and with the electric Teletruks joining the fleet, it gives us zero emissions alternatives to the diesel Teletruk.
“Already excelling with our recycling industry customers, I expect these electric machines to become popular in the warehousing sector too, as they
electric Teletruk models join an exclusively JCB fleet of machines,
HSA: Work-Related Violence
Is Never “Part of the Job”
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) launched a new awareness campaign aimed at helping employers to effectively manage and mitigate the risks associated with work-related violence and aggression. This initiative comes as part of the HSA’s continued commitment to promoting safer workplaces and addressing key risks around employee occupational health.
The campaign aims to raise awareness among employers of their legal duties in protecting employees from potential threats of violence or aggressive behaviour from external parties in the workplace. It also provides guidance on implementing
best practices and preventive measures to create safer, more supportive working environments for workers.
Employer Responsibility and Worker Safety
The new campaign highlights the growing need for vigilance and proactive management in industries where employees may be particularly vulnerable to workrelated violence and aggression from the general public, such as healthcare, retail, hospitality, and public services. It emphasises that employers have a duty to assess risks, provide appropriate training, and establish clear procedures to handle such incidents effectively.
Dr Adrienne Duff, Assistant Chief Executive, Occupational Health,
HSA, stated, “The safety of employees must be a top priority for every employer.
Work-related violence and aggression can have a devastating impact on both the physical and mental health of workers, as well as the overall productivity of businesses.
“This campaign aims to ensure that all employers understand the steps they need to take to safeguard their staff and to provide the necessary resources for preventing and managing incidents.”
Work-related violence and aggression is a key hazard in workplaces, particularly in frontline roles where employees are in direct contact with the public.
HSA inspection safety campaign in quarries
In the ten years from 2014 to 2023, quarrying, mining and the associated manufacturing activities in the industry accounted for seven work-related fatalities in Ireland. There are approximately 500 quarry developments operating throughout Ireland (GSI figures). There are two main types – rock quarries and sand and gravel pit quarries, both of which use heavy and large machinery. Quarries and manufacturing plants within quarries are potentially hazardous workplaces due to the large and powerful machinery used daily.
During September, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) carried out a two-week quarry safety inspection campaign. HSA inspectors conducted quarry safety inspections focusing on the critical hazards when operating quarry machinery or while carrying out machinery maintenance in quarries and associated manufacturing premises. Inspectors also focused on ensuring safe work practices and proactive measures are in place to reduce the risk of incidents, including serious or fatal injury. The Authority’s key focus was around incidents that can occur due to unsafe machinery operation, inadequate guarding or no guarding of hazardous moving machine parts, lack of adequate risk assessments for all maintenance activities, and lack of proper isolation procedures during planned and unplanned maintenance.
Inspections carried out sought evidence of the following:
• Routine inspection of machinery guarding.
• Routine inspection of emergency stops, and emergency pull cords.
• Planned maintenance procedures and risk assessments for all planned and unplanned maintenance activities.
• The implementation of the outcome of risk assessments to ensure that
Comprehensive Resources for Employers
The HSA has a suite of resources to help employers better understand their obligations and implement practical solutions, which includes their latest Guidance on Managing the Risk of Work-Related Violence and Aggression
To support this recent guidance, the HSA is developing a free e-learning course for employers and duty-holders to use. This will be available soon on www.HSAlearning.ie.
these work activities are carried out safely, including “Lock Out/Tag Out/Try out” LOTOTO systems.
• That employees receive information, instruction and safety training relevant to the tasks that are undertaken.
• That equipment and machinery used in maintenance activity is suitable for the task.
Commenting on the inspection campaign, Hilary Byrne, Senior Inspector, HSA said, “We require employers in the quarry industry to proactively carry out risk assessments and put in place appropriate control measures, including safe ways of working. As with any hazardous workplace environment, preventative measures are key to ensuring the safety of workers. Clear communication is also crucial to ensuring all workers are aware of safety measures, ensuring they receive instruction and safety training relevant to the tasks undertaken.”
Supporting the HSA’s quarry safety blitz, Irish Concrete Federation’s Chief Executive, Gerry Farrell, said, “This important HSA inspection campaign is an opportunity for companies to review their safety procedures, together with their employees, and implement new initiatives to enhance the safety and well-being of all in the workplace. We urge our members to remain focused on the fundamental safety risks associated with quarrying throughout the year.”
For further information and resources on quarry safety visit HSA website at the following links:
Safe Quarry Legislation
Safe Quarry - A Guide for Quarry Workers
Byggfakta Group becomes Hubexo and announces new leadership structure
Byggfakta Group, the parent company behind several market-leading construction data and information brands, including UK & Ireland-based companies NBS, Glenigan, and CIS, announced today that it has changed its name to Hubexo (www.hubexo.com).
This new identity heralds the start of a global rebranding and restructuring project to position the company as a dynamic and forward-thinking leader in the construction data and technology sector.
At this stage, the name change only affects the parent company. However, brands within the group, which includes NBS, Glenigan and CIS, will receive new visual identities to reinforce their connection to Hubexo. Customerfacing products will initially
maintain their existing names.
This launch of Hubexo is the first step in unifying the organisation into a single brand, which aims to complete in April 2025.
“The built environment shapes the way we live, work, and play, and our new name reflects our commitment to connecting and shaping the global construction industry with our vital data and insights,” said Dario Aganovic, Chief Executive Officer. “We are building on almost 100 years of construction expertise, and now as Hubexo, we’re unifying our global brands to drive innovation, empower our customers, and guide the construction sector into a sustainable future.”
To reinforce its global ambitions, the Hubexo leadership team has been restructured to streamline
operations and enhance innovation. The company has also appointed regional Presidents to oversee commercial operations in APAC, Northeast Europe, West Europe, UK and Ireland, and North America.
“Our new leadership structure allows us to sharpen our focus on innovation, collaboration, and customer success,” said Aganovic. “We’re creating an agile and united leadership that will deliver even better products for our customers and create a rewarding environment where our 2,500 colleagues around the world can thrive.”
New President for UK and Ireland
as part of the restructuring, Joanne Keit has been appointed as President, UK and Ireland.
Commenting on her role, Joanne Keit said: “Our brands in the UK play a central role in the UK and Ireland’s construction sector. Thanks to our amazing colleagues at CIS, Glenigan and NBS, we deliver products and services that thousands of customers across the industry have come to trust and rely on. This success gives us a solid foundation to take the business forward as part of the new Hubexo brand. I’m excited to lead that journey for the UK and Ireland.”
Joanne Keit, President, UK and Ireland. PLANT
SURGE IN DEMAND FOR
iDIG AS IRISH MARKET REACTS TO NEW PUBLIC PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS
Since the introduction of the new public procurement requirements for construction and infrastructure projects in Ireland, there has been an increased demand for the iDig machine control system distributed throughout Ireland by Cullion Plant Service (CPS).
The new Capital Works Management Framework (CWMF) reforms came into effect, on 1 January 2024 and relate to public sector BIM (Building Information Management) adoption. In practice, they will require the digitisation of all public works projects by 2030. The new requirements are being rolled out on an adoption timetable by contract size. Currently, they only apply to public contracts valued at over €100 million. Next year (2025), the threshold will be reduced to incorporate projects over €20 million. The threshold will reduce gradually until, during 2027, they will apply to public projects under €1 million. The regulations will gradually apply throughout the supply chain for public
sector contracts, from the design team to the main contractor and all subcontractors.
Cain Ferguson of CPS comments: “In response to the demand for the iDig attachment, my colleague, Aiden O’Neill, and I are on the road every week, taking our mini digger and demonstration model to interested contractors throughout the south. This week, we are starting in Dublin and moving north through Cavan, with demo appointments along the route.
“There’s obviously a lot of interest in the north of Ireland too, because of the very real benefits of iDig, but more southern-based operators are showing interest because iDig will also help with public procurement compliance.”
2D, 2D+ AND 3D PROVIDES THE ULTIMATE SOLUTION
CPS has been the Ireland supplier for the French-based inventor for several years. It has proven to be very popular with agricultural, construction, and infrastructure
iDig 3D screen.
Cain Ferguson.
users due to its ease of use and the work efficiency benefits it delivers. Cain Ferguson of CPS continues: “Whether you’re a farmer installing drainage in a field or a marketleading building contractor working on large-scale projects, iDig 2D has already proved its worth in the Irish market.
“In a nutshell, iDig 2D helps machine operators get the job done right the first time. It tells you exactly how deeply you should dig and guides you to the right depth. TOUCH 2D lets you monitor your work in real-time from your control box. Enter your slope, distance, and depth, and track your measurements with LED indicators for pinpoint accuracy on every job site.”
2D performs a range of measurements: flat, single, or double slope, long axis, typical crosssection, distances, and depths, referencing the ground benchmark or a laser for dig depth.
2D+ adds in extra benefits. A SpotMan GNSS receiver on your excavator allows the use of a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) as a vertical reference, significantly speeding up the task of digging to a precise depth in any part of a work site. This
effectively increases precision, efficiency and eliminates the need for expert site surveys.
iDIG 3D MEETS CWMF DATA NEEDS
Upgrading to iDig 3D delivers all the benefits of the earlier models in much greater detail. The system has a USB socket for uploading data and connects to the operator’s smartphone to both receive and transmit information.
This means you can create and execute your own projects, import CAD drawings, DXF or LandXML files into your control box, and by linking to the satellite system, you can see your work on the ground in fully rendered 3D visualisation. You can even use the excavator bucket to measure coordinates, trench depth and more.
Cain Ferguson outlines how iDig 3D helps operators to comply with BIM management and the new CWMF public procurement regulations: “With so much information stored in your 3D iDig and accessible for reporting through the USB or your smartphone, it is easy to provide information to your own business, or your main contractor, for
reporting under the new public procurement regulations. That means that, as a business, you are compliant with regulations and standards, and it means that your business is ready to do business with public sector construction and infrastructure projects.”
The benefits of the iDig machine control are such that it will immediately become an asset to your operations and your bottom line. Cain Ferguson concludes: “iDig is an attachment that is really simple to use, can be applied to any excavator regardless of size or brand and delivers a fast-track return on investment through cost and time saving and the efficiency and accuracy improvements it delivers.”
Sensors attached to the digger arm.
BOBCAT - CREATING THE BEST MATCH OF CARRIERS AND ATTACHMENTS
Bobcat is dedicated to enabling its customers to complete their work quickly and efficiently. That is why the company offers not only an ever-growing selection of compact machines, all intended as tool carriers, but also an extensive and continuously developing range of attachments to be used on these machines. The power available, coupling systems, hydraulics, and the attachment control device (ACD) on Bobcat machines are all designed to facilitate quick attachment changes and allow customers to perform a
wide range of tasks with the same machine. Working with attachments is an attractive choice from an investment point of view, especially for multidisciplinary companies.
“We supply one of the most extensive attachment programmes, with which you can carry out all common activities in construction, landscaping, agriculture, demolition, recycling and material handling. That is why all our compact machines have been developed as tool carriers,” explains Katinka Kincses, Product Manager Attachments at Bobcat EMEA.
THE RIGHT MACHINE AND THE RIGHT ATTACHMENTS
Katinka Kincses continues, “Yet, it is important to choose the right products from Bobcat. For example, a skid-steer loader is strong and agile, but it is better to use a compact track loader for sensitive terrain where you do not want to disturb the soil too much. Power also plays a role. If you want to use a forestry mulcher, a wheel saw or a snow plough, you will need to purchase a heavy-duty machine. If you want to work at a high driving speed, a skid-steer loader is not suitable, and it is better to use a compact wheel loader. If lifting height and reach are important, a compact wheel loader or a telehandler are the more obvious choices. Compact wheel loaders also have the advantage that the driver sits higher and has a better view of the work area.”
Kincses believes that a customer should only purchase a specialist machine if they do the same, specialist work all day long. “For golf course maintenance, a rideon mower from Bobcat is a great investment, but in most other cases, a multi-purpose tool carrier is a wiser investment because you can carry out more work and projects, work all year round and therefore use the machine more intensively. You often see that a new customer buys a machine with three or four attachments and gradually adds another three or four attachments, so that they can do as much work as possible with the same machine.”
MORE THAN 120 ATTACHMENTS TO CHOOSE FROM
Once customers have made their choice of machine, they can choose from more than 120 attachments on offer from Bobcat, many of which are inter-compatible between different Bobcat tool carriers. For convenience, Bobcat has subdivided the attachments based on activity, including demolition, construction, roadworks, landscaping, forestry, agriculture and material handling. The range is particularly wide, especially for landscaping and road construction. Still, many attachments can be used for general work, such as buckets, grabs, clamps, pallet forks, roller brushes, dozer blades, graders, rakes, flail mowers, trenchers, drills and demolition hammers. In addition, there are specialist attachments such as
vibrating rollers, concrete mixers, concrete buckets, planers, high-pressure water cleaners, work platforms, woodchippers and even a tree transplanter.
ATTACHMENT CONTROL DEVICE
Bobcat has integrated a lot of functionality into the machines and attachments to enhance their connectivity and operation. The company’s Bob-Tach system for connecting attachments is the industry standard, but since (the early 2000s) the Power Bob-Tach system has also been available, which allows the operator to connect and disconnect nonhydraulic attachments without the need to leave the cab. Another useful feature is the speed management system which allows adjustment of the travel speed independently from the engine speed, allowing for higher productivity.
The ACD is built into the attachment. It is a CANbus system that controls the communication between the machine and the attachment. Thanks to the ACD, the machine recognises the attachment and automatically adjusts the settings of, among other things, the joystick controls and the hydraulics.
The driver can adjust the settings on the display in the machine to receive an overview of the operating hours, performance and status of the attachment. If an operator uses remote control to work their machine, all functions for controlling the attachment are also automatically available.
BOBCAT WITH BOBCAT
Katinka Kincses advises customers to use Bobcat attachments on their Bobcat carriers: “Our machines and attachments are optimally
matched and tested. For example, you can be sure that the attachment’s software is always up to date and functions work optimally through controls available in the cab, that the hydraulic system is suitable for its tasks and that you can use all the attachment functions. If there are technical problems, Bobcat can solve them within the warranty period, and you are not stuck between two suppliers pointing fingers at each other. She explains, “A good example of the adaptation of machine and attachment is the combination of the new FRC 200XT forestry cutter and the S86 or T86 top-ofthe-range loaders. To work with powerful tools like this, these machines have the option of a high-flow function and a superflow function, which increases the standard flow of the auxiliary hydraulics from 87 l/min to 138 l/min or 159 l/min. To use the forestry cutter, a special readyto-use forestry kit must also be installed on the loader, which
protects the engine, machine, couplings and operator.”
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
As Attachments Product Manager, Katinka Kincses is responsible for product development, marketing, additional services and training.
“I view my department as the voice of the customer.
We map out their wishes and conduct field research to develop new attachments and new functions. We have two important principles,” she says.
“The first is the fact that job sites are becoming smaller and that the demand for compact machines and compact attachments is increasing. In addition, ease of use is becoming increasingly important. Many companies are struggling with staff shortages, so you need to offer alternatives to human labour.
“To maintain productivity, young and inexperienced employees must also be able to operate the machines and attachments without extensive training. This can also be done through automation. For example, look at the modern grader. There is so much technology there that the machine can perform its work almost autonomously.”
From her position of responsibility for product development, Katinka Kincses does not want to say too much now about the latest attachment launches planned by Bobcat. She comments:
“But we are working on interesting things that will see the light of day next year.”
For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit www.bobcat.com.
VERSAFFIX TILTROTATORS, LESS LABOUR, SAVE MONEY, DO MORE!
Versaffix is a leader in the engineering and manufacturing sector, specialising in tiltrotator technology exclusively designed and manufactured in Northern Ireland. As the first tiltrotator manufacturer in both the UK and Ireland, Versaffix is setting new standards for construction, landscaping, and railway maintenance by improving the efficiency, safety, and versatility of excavators. Founded to revolutionise the way excavators operate, Versaffix is headquartered near Newry, Northern Ireland, and operates with a close-knit team of ten highly skilled employees. Although relatively small, the company has plans to continue growing its workforce over the coming months as it expands to other markets. Versaffix benefits from its association with the Re-Gen Group, leveraging the expertise of sister companies Doherty Developments, Re-Gen Waste, and Connex Offsite. This family of companies provides invaluable support in terms of engineering, construction, and lean manufacturing, helping Versaffix remain at the forefront of the industry.
ENGINEERING AND MANUFACTURING EXCELLENCE
Versaffix leads in innovative tiltrotator design for excavators between 3 and 22 tons. The 19-22 ton model release in Q3 of this year demonstartes its dedication to the evolving needs of the construction industry. Versaffix tiltrotators, capable of 360-degree rotation and 45-degree tilting in both directions, enable faster, more precise operations, reducing
machine wear and fuel consumption and increasing job completion time by up to 35%. Complemented by highquality attachments like Grippers, hydraulic forks and sorting grabs, Versaffix tiltrotators allow for far more productivity per attachment with the added movements handling both delicate and heavy materials with ease.
INNOVATION AND MARKET REACH
Versaffix’s success is driven by a commitment to innovation, with a dedicated R&D team focused on enhancing product functionality and durability for greater efficiency and safety on-site. Versaffix can tailor control systems to give the customer the best functionality seamlessly controlled while going the extra mile to make sure that the product is as smooth and durable as possible. Showcasing at industry events like CQMS, Plantworx, and the National Ploughing Championships, Versaffix has gained recognition in Ireland and the UK, deploying tiltrotators across diverse sectors like railways, civils, and utilities, and building its reputation as a trusted partner in construction.
COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY AND SAFETY
At Versaffix, sustainability and safety are core values. The company’s tiltrotators are designed to reduce the need for frequent machine repositioning, which not only
cuts down on fuel consumption but also lowers the wear and tear on machinery. This makes the equipment more durable and helps contractors lower their carbon footprint. The reduced need for whole machine movement also increases safety as there is a reduced chance of colliding with obstacles or ground workers. Versaffix tiltrotators also enhance operator control and visibility while carrying loads or entering pallets, therefore reducing the risk of on-site accidents and creating a safer work environment.
To learn more about Versaffix’s product range, visit www.versaffix.com or reach out directly via email at contact@versaffix.com
Jim King
Chairman, WISHNI
VEHICLE - PEDESTRIAN SAFETY: CAN WE FIX IT? YES WE CAN!
In the last edition of Plant and Civil Engineer, we talked about the consequences of finding a breach in our defences against the dangers of vehicle–pedestrian impact. We looked at the big picture of Safe Plant, Safe Place and Safe Person. One way of reducing the risk of a pedestrian being hit by a moving vehicle is to exclude pedestrians from the area of vehicle movement. Soft methods include policy statements, procedures for excluding people and controls on contacting vehicle drivers. ‘Not possible’, some may say, but it depends on the discipline in your company. Discipline in this context does not just mean the application of the company’s disciplinary procedures – it means “the way we do things around here!” Sometimes, this is known as safety culture – but remember, a safety culture can also be poor. So high-achieving teams also tend to be highly motivated to achieve high standards of safety. I have also been told, frequently, that physical methods of separation are very expensive. In reality, physical measures don’t have to be high-cost, either in terms of time to install or the cost of materials. Simple iron pipe, painted or spray coated, filled with concrete if you want, bolted down or set into pockets in the surface will be fine. Some firms have also installed proprietary safety barriers using steel rails and posts. Raised kerbs may be a sufficient barrier depending on the size of a vehicle. Others have used line painting to mark out pedestrian walkways. This is best for internal areas, with light vehicle traffic, though
commercial line painting has worked in some external areas.
In areas with a high number of vehicle movements and frequent crossing of the area is required by pedestrians, consider installing traffic lights at crossing points. Of course, the use of the crossings by all parties has to be monitored to ensure compliance.
A clearly identified and enforced speed limit, which is consistent across the entire site is essential, as are steps to minimise the need to reverse vehicles. Where reversing is necessary e.g. into a loading bay, then consider traffic control systems and removing people from the vicinity of the reversing vehicle.
Taking steps to provide lighting in line with the guidance provided by the Health and Safety Executive (HSG 38) is particularly important at this time of year with murky days, dark mornings and early dusk. Providing visibility aids at blind corners is also an easy fix.
I’m sure there are some folks reading this and thinking that’s all nonsense and entails extra cost. Investing in safety shouldn’t be a burden, but balance the cost of investment against:
• legal costs
• lost management time
• investigation time
• production delays
• extra wages and overtime
• damage to plant, buildings, tools and equipment
• possible loss of contracts
• loss of business reputation. There are a lot of businesses in the waste industry doing the practical stuff well, which just shows it can be done. Yes, we can!
Footnote: this is my last article as Chair of WISHNI, a big thanks to all who have made my time in WISHNI a pleasure. Jennifer Stephens will take over as Acting Chair from 12 November and I would like to wish Jennifer every success.
Construction site in urban area including pedestrians, workers and plant machinery, with safety measures like barriers, walkways and traffic control lights.
recycling & waste management
RIVERRIDGE CROWNED ROAD TO NET ZERO CHAMPION 2024
Leading waste and resource management company, RiverRidge, has won the Road to Net Zero Champion award at the annual Export and Freight Transport and Logistics Awards 2024.
The ‘Road to Net Zero Champion’ award, sponsored by Logistics UK, was presented to RiverRidge at a glittering ceremony at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in South Belfast, which was attended by around 600 guests from all sectors of the transport and logistics industry and compered by the BBC’s Mark Simpson. RiverRidge, a company that has been at the forefront of change within Northern Ireland’s waste and resource management sector, recognised early on that sustainability is the future of responsible business and looked at ways it could implement more sustainable practices and carbon saving initiatives, whilst also making it easier for its customers to become more sustainable.
STRATEGY CONNECTED TO OPERATIONS AND FOCUS ON BIODIVERSITY
Following engagement with KPMG’s Sustainable Futures Team in 2022 and extensive discussions with all RiverRidge stakeholders, from senior management to customers, professional bodies and employees, the company created its dedicated ESG strategy, establishing a set of sustainability ambitions and goals, along with the development of a set of KPIs, against
which it could report on its progression. RiverRidge’s inaugural ESG report outlining this progress was launched earlier this year and details the company’s activities and success in regard to environmental, social, and governance practices to date. The awarding judges felt that it was clear RiverRidge’s sustainability plans and strategies are based on these extensive consultations and deliberations, which fed into its corporate ESG strategies, and that their process of sustainability transition was carefully thought about. Comment was also made on RiverRidge’s recognition of including scope 3 emissions reporting for customers, allowing them to better understand the carbon impact of their own operations, as well as the company’s clear, measurable and time-focused targets for reducing environmental impacts, waste and carbon emissions – e.g. 75% of its vehicle fleet is to be renewable by 2035.
Of particular note was RiverRidge’s focus on biodiversity initiatives, including naturebased solutions such as reed beds, alongside a more dominant focus on reducing carbon emissions. The installation of beehives is particularly important in terms of the ecological function of bees as key pollinators. RiverRidge successfully combines technical (solar, bio-methane generation) and non-technical (behavioural changes) initiatives along the road to net zero.
CARBON ACCOUNTING PLATFORM COMING SOON
Speaking about the award, CEO of RiverRidge, Brett Ross said, “We are thrilled to win the ‘Road to Net Zero Champion’ award at this year’s Export and Freight Transport and Logistics awards. We have implemented an expansive number of strategies and invested heavily across the company to minimise not just our own impact on the environment, but the impact of our customers, and this is something that we are fully committed to progressing in the months and years ahead. This includes the launch of our new carbon accounting platform later this year, which will provide customers with enhanced transparency via tracking, recording and reporting in order to help them reduce their carbon footprint. The launch of our ESG strategy and subsequent report holds us accountable to our sustainability activities; enabling our customers full transparency on the actions that we are taking. We are delighted to be recognised for these efforts at this year’s awards.”
Organised by the Hillsborough-based publishers of Export and Freight magazine, 4SM (NI) Ltd, the Export and Freight Awards, which was first staged back in 2001, is Ireland’s premier platform of recognition for those operating in the transport and logistics sector. The awards celebrate and reward the very best in an industry that continues to meet its challenges headon with resilience and perseverance.
L-R: Mark Simpson, Compère, RiverRidge Team and Nichola Mallon, Head of Trade and Devolved Policy, Logistics UK.
plantworx 2025
PLANTWORX 2025: ‘ONE YEAR TO GO’
Save the date for the construction equipment industry’s key event.
The countdown to the sixth edition of PlantWorx, hosted by the CEA (Construction Equipment Association), has officially begun. From 23rd to 25th September 2025, the Newark Showground, a new venue for PlantWorx, will be the hub for the latest developments in construction equipment and technology. With an anticipated 400 exhibitors and over 15,000 visitors, this is the must-attend event for professionals looking to stay ahead in the construction industry. For anyone serious about advancing their business, PlantWorx offers an unparalleled opportunity. Industry veterans and newcomers alike will find the latest machinery, groundbreaking technologies, and live demonstrations designed to transform daily operations. The event goes beyond the traditional trade show, providing a hands-on experience that aims to inspire and equip professionals with the tools and solutions needed to stay competitive.
Major names like Takeuchi, RSP UK Suction Excavators Ltd, SANY Heavy Machinery UK Ltd, Sunward, Avant Techno, XCMG, Hydrema, Liugong, Mecalac, Kubota, Steelwrist, Hidromek, Rototilt, Worsley Plant, Merlo, Manitou, National Highways, and many more are already confirmed. These companies will showcase their machinery through live demonstrations,
providing an up-close look at how they tackle the industry’s everyday challenges.
Simon Frere-Cook, PlantWorx Event Director, commented, “Technology is advancing faster than ever, and PlantWorx 2025 is where these innovations come to life. We’ve designed this event to ensure that whether you’re a contractor, operator, or business owner, you’ll leave with insights and practical knowledge that can transform your operations. It’s about preparing for the future as much as seeing what’s available today.”
OPERATOR CHALLENGE RETURNS
Back by popular demand, the Operator Challenge will once again give attendees a chance to test their skills and compete with the industry’s best. This challenge remains a highlight of the event, offering
substantial prizes, including a significant cash award for the overall winner.
For exhibitors, PlantWorx 2025 offers a platform to demonstrate innovations to an engaged audience. New features like the Shared Dig Zone will allow more companies to showcase their equipment without the need for a large demo plot. Whether a market leader or an emerging brand, exhibitors will have the chance to demonstrate their capabilities to thousands of industry professionals.
Simon added, “PlantWorx continues to be the go-to event for the construction industry because it offers a unique space where companies, large and small, can showcase their technologies in action, and visitors can engage with them directly.”
With one year to go, now is the time to ensure your participation in the event. Whether you’re looking to discover the latest innovations, network with industry leaders, or experience the future of construction equipment firsthand, PlantWorx 2025 promises to deliver. For exhibitors, spaces are filling fast. For visitors, mark your calendars – PlantWorx 2025 is set to be one of the most anticipated construction events of the year.
For more information or to register your interest in attending or exhibiting, visit Plantworx.co.uk.
CATERPILLAR LAUNCHES NEW NEXT-GENERATION CAT® SKID STEER LOADERS AND COMPACT TRACK LOADERS
Caterpillar has introduced eight new next-generation Cat® Skid Steer Loader (SSL) and Compact Track Loader (CTL) models.
Four new Cat SSLs – the Cat 250, 260, 270, and 270 XE – mark the introduction of the next generation design to the SSL line. Meanwhile, the new Cat 275, 275 XE, 285 and 285 XE mark the expansion of the next-generation design for the CTL line, joining the 255 and 265 announced in late 2023. The largest CTLs ever produced by Caterpillar, the new Cat 285 and 285 XE compete in a new class size with greater lift height and lift and tilt breakout forces.
GROUND UP REDESIGN
Maintaining the DNA of what made the Cat D3 series a leader, the next generation SSL and CTL models are a ground-up redesign that improves on the features that made the previous series popular. High performance is the standard for these next-generation machines, elevating Caterpillar’s loader reputation through upgrades in engine power and torque, lift and tilt breakout forces, stability, operator comfort, and technology.
The new SSL and CTL models carry on Caterpillar’s new machine nomenclature with the elimination of the series letter designation. All next generation Cat SSLs are now identified by an ending model number of 0, while all CTLs have a model number ending in 5. Simplifying nomenclature, the middle number represents machine size with a larger number designating a larger machine. “We are excited to launch the next generation design for our skid steer loader line and expand the performance capabilities to more compact track loader models,” comments Trevor Chase, senior
product consultant and new product introduction lead for Caterpillar. “Their increased power, lift height, breakout forces, rated operating capacity (ROC) and multiple high-flow auxiliary hydraulic system options give customers a flexible, highperformance machine to get the job done.”
A NEW PERFORMANCE BENCHMARK
All next-generation Cat SSL and CTL models feature a redesigned engine compartment that places the engine and cooling package lower into the frame for improved stability, giving the operator confidence in handling heavy loads throughout all aspects of the work cycles. Meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final/ EU Stage V emissions standards, the four new CTL models are powered by the Cat C3.6TA engine, while the 250 and 260 SSLs are powered by the Cat C2.8T and the 270 and 270 XE by the Cat 3.6TA. These new engines maintain horsepower across a wider RPM range compared to the previous engines powering the D3 series and boast significant torque increases – 13% for the 250 and 260, 35% for the 270, and 50% for the 275 and 285 – for improved working performance.
With a vertical lift design, these new nextgeneration machines feature significantly increased lift height, breakout forces and ROC to elevate loader flexibility and performance.
The Cat 250 features a lift height of 124 in (3150 mm), 3 in (76.2 mm) more than the 242D3, a 36% increase in tilt and 26% increase in lift breakout forces, and 21% increase in ROC.
Offering a maximum lift height of 132 in (3353 mm), the 260 has 7 in (193 mm) more lift height than the 262D3 and 27% increase in tilt and 24% increase in lift breakout forces, and a 17% increase in ROC.
With 6.4 in (162 mm) more lift height than the 272D3, the 270 and 270 XE deliver a maximum lift height of 133.5 in (3391 mm) plus 11% and 5% increases in tilt and lift breakout forces, respectively.
The 275 and 275 XE CTLs have a lift height of 134.4 in (3415 mm), 8 in (203.2 mm) higher than the 299D3, plus a 37% increase in tilt breakout force and 19% increase in ROC.
Expanding the Cat SSL and CTL line into the biggest size class, the 285 and the 285 XE deliver a lift height of 146 in (3708 mm) and tilt breakout force of 13,920 lbs (6314 kg). The 285 has an ROC of 4,719 lbs (2141 kg) with counterweight while the 285 XE has an ROC of 4,816 lbs (2185 kg) with counterweight.
SMART HYDRAULICS
Their new closed-center auxiliary hydraulic system allows these machines to operate all Cat Smart Attachments with the standard hydraulics provided. Standard hydraulic system pressure increases 5% to 3,500 psi (24130 kPa) in the next generation models. Cat 250, 260, 270 and 275 machines equipped with standard hydraulic flow are shipped from the factory outfitted as “High Flow ready.” High Flow functionality is activated simply via a new software enabled attachment (SEA), permitting on-machine or remote activation of increased hydraulic flow to 30 gal/min (113 l/min) for the 250, 260, and 270 models and 34 gal/min (129 l/min) for the 275 at standard hydraulic system pressure. Also available, the High Flow XPS factory option increases auxiliary hydraulic system pressure to 4,061 psi (28000 kPa) for the 250, 260, 270, 275 and 285 next generation models. Along with this, hydraulic flow is increased to 30 gal/min (113 l/min) on the 250, while
flow increases to 34 gal/min (129 l/min) for the 260, 270, 275 and 285 models. Equipping the 250 with the High Flow XPS option gives customers auxiliary hydraulic performance not available before in a mid-size chassis SSL. Equipped for maximum hydraulic capability, the High Flow option for 270 XE, 275 XE and 285 XE loaders increases auxiliary hydraulic system pressure to 4,496 psi (31000 kPa) and hydraulic flow to 40 gal/min (150 l/min).
The four next generation CTL models feature a new E-bar (equalizer bar) undercarriage that provides increased stability for grading and handling heavier loads. The E-bar undercarriage harnesses Caterpillar’s heritage and leadership with track type tractors to provide a hybrid undercarriage solution. It delivers the benefits of a rigidstyle undercarriage design when lifting heavy loads or using heavy attachments like mulchers and dozer and grader blades, while simultaneously providing the benefits of an oscillating undercarriage when encountering uneven terrain or obstacles.
ROOMIER CABS
All next generation Cat SSLs and CTLs feature a larger cab design with 22% more overall volume and 26% additional foot space. With a 2.75-in (70-mm) increase in interior width, the new cab expands footwell-to-ceiling height by 1.8 in (46 mm) and allows for an additional 1.5 in (40 mm) of hip room and 1.1 in (28 mm) more width between the joysticks to improve operator comfort.
Next generation loaders are equipped with either a 5-in (127-mm) standard LCD monitor or an 8-in (203-mm) advanced touchscreen monitor, depending on the selected technology package. Like the advanced
next-generation
display on the D3 series, the standard monitor features Bluetooth connectivity and supports functionality for rearview camera feed, creep, job clock, maintenance reminders and 32 languages. The advanced touchscreen monitor provides a higher level of control over standard monitor functionality, offers advanced radio control, and supports side cameras and 32 language choices. The new advanced joysticks enable integrated control of the advanced touchscreen monitor, so all machine function control and adjustments can be made without the operator removing their hands from the controls.
A range of new mechanical and air-ride suspension seat options are available for these next generation machines, including a high-comfort seat that is both ventilated and heated. New auto temperature control plus vent outlet positioning above the operator help the new HVAC system to quickly cool the cab’s interior.
Entering and exiting next generation loaders is much easier thanks to their low entry points. The operator can now open the cab door without the lift arms being fully lowered to the frame stops. A simplified two-step door removal process allows operators to quickly remove it without tools. The machines’ lower engine mounting, 59% larger rear window and bigger top window providing 15% increased viewable area combine to improve operator visibility.
TECHNOLOGY ADVANCEMENTS
These new SSLs and CTLs offer the next level of integrating machine and technology. Both standard and advanced monitors provide the ability to run Cat Smart Attachments, such as the dozer and grader blades and backhoe. Attachment operation is integrated into the joysticks, and the machine automatically recognizes the type of attachment and the required joystick pattern for controlling it.
Available Cat Product Link™ Elite tracks machine hours, location, and asset utilization, provides fault code details, and delivers advanced monitoring and machine health with data remotely accessible via VisionLink®. Additionally, Product Link Elite provides Remote Flash and Remote Troubleshooting capabilities and quickly enables the remote activation of the SEA High Flow feature.
KOMATSU FOREST HARVESTER AND FORWARDER UPGRADES ANNOUNCED
Good news for forestry contractors: Komatsu has put a new head on to their trusty C124 harvester’s shoulders.
Said by Komatsu to be ‘a well-deserved model year upgrade’, a new valve block and new hydraulics design for the feeding system are some of the improvements that customers can expect. Prototype customer trials were reported to be ‘very positive’, revealing higher productivity, a better user experience, better running, with fast and efficient feeding. Perhaps the most important improvement is the C124’s
new valve bank, similar to that developed for the C164 and C144 models. This delivers component coordination with the base machine’s valve banks for crane and chassis; longer service life than before; an improved wear pattern that increases the reliability of the harvester head and contributes to more uptime and reduced repair costs; and lower energy losses and fuel savings.
According to McHale area sales manager Pat Egan: “the new feed system is fitted with high-flow motors that are more efficient than the previous ones, thereby reducing
energy losses and enhancing head performance”.
According to Egan: “the new design improves the stem holding when felling, as it ensures that the feeding wheels have a maximum grip of the stem. With the smaller feed motor option, the feed speed is now 6,5 m/s”.
FORWARDER UPGRADES
Other upgrades within the Komatsu forestry range see their 895 Forwarder offered with an all-new 205F crane option to handle larger grapples. Developed with a focus on increased productivity in final
cutting and plantation forestry, the new option 205F crane has a lifting torque of 205 kNm and a slewing torque of 51.9, kNm. Also new on the 895 Forwarder is a redesigned load space that includes a full-width gate and bunks with telescopic function. A new grapple, model G88H, and new rotator are also presented. Available now, the new enhancements are said by their distributor in Ireland, McHale Plant Sales as “upgrades that will ‘contribute immeasurably’ to the working performance of the Komatsu forest equipment concerned.”
SANY UK SELLS FIRST 23-TONNE ELECTRIC EXCAVATOR IN THE UK TO EXPLORE PLANT AND TRANSPORT SOLUTIONS
Following its European debut in the Netherlands earlier this year, SANY is thrilled to announce the sale of its first medium-sized electric excavator in the UK.
The first 23-tonne electric excavator, the SY215E, has been sold to Explore Plant and Transport Solutions, one of the UK’s largest and most diverse suppliers of equipment and services to the construction industry.
Leigh Harris, Business Development Director for SANY UK commented “We are incredibly proud to introduce SANY’s first 23-tonne electric excavator, the SY215E to the UK market, which highlights the growing demand for ecofriendly heavy machinery in our construction industry. Explore Plant and Transport Solutions is also the perfect partner for this venture, as like SANY they continue to invest in greener and more sustainable plant solutions to help their clients reduce their emissions and work towards zero carbon sites”.
As a global leader in construction engineering, SANY is dedicated to delivering high-quality, sustainable and emission reduction initiatives, introducing over 40 new electric products globally in 2023 and remains committed to supporting the energy transition in Europe.
With an operating weight of 23,200kg, the SY215E boasts a rated power of 150kW always ensuring peak performance. It has a maximum digging height of 9,600mm, a maximum digging depth of 6,255mm and is available with a range of tracks from 600mm to 800mm. In addition, the efficient and smooth Kawasaki main pump and valve block provides the precision electro-hydraulic controls to really maximise on productivity.
The SANY SY215E has been tailored specifically for the European market, featuring the latest generation cab including a large 10” HD touchscreen, LED lighting, improved air suspension seat, enhanced air ventilation, intelligent fault self-diagnosis and a low noise working environment, all designed specifically with the operator in mind. This pure electric machine offers costsaving, convenient operation, excellent performance, and numerous safety features.
With a rated battery capacity of 422 kWh, the SY215E has a battery life of 6 to 8 hours.
With the CCS2 charging option achieving a full charge in just 90 minutes, a full day’s work can be easily achieved.
“We are excited to be able to bring SANY’s first 23-tonne electric excavator to the UK market, I believe this latest addition to the Explore Plant and Transport fleet demonstrates our ambition and continued investment into the latest
innovations and sustainable products across our plant and transport fleet. We want to ensure that our clients have access to the most efficient and sustainable products in the marketplace to reduce emissions across the industry. It has been a pleasure to work with the team at SANY and we are looking forward to putting this machine out to work in the coming weeks.” – Warren Wilkinson, Operations Director of Explore Plant and Transport Solutions. Explore Plant and Transport Solutions took delivery of the SANY SY215E this month.
With over 30 years’ experience, Explore Plant and Transport Solutions has built an excellent reputation as one of largest and most diverse suppliers of choice. With an extensive network of offices and depots across the UK, Explore work with customers and clients to develop solutions that maximise efficiency and deliver real value to a project.
https://exploretransport.co.uk/
L–R: Reuben Stapells, Key Account Manager, SANY UK; Warren Wilkinson, Operations Director, Explore, Howard Hunt, Head of Operations, Explore and Leigh Harris, Business Development Director, SANY UK.
Ross Milne ( right) of Alan Milne Tractors Newry delivering a new Takeuchi TB370 to PM Construcions in Downpatrick.
Hitachi ZX130LCN-7 w.
(Garvagh).
New Case CX12D supplied by Cowan Bros to Islandview Plant Hire, Toomebridge.
new Engcon EC214S twin hitch system for Branniff Construction, from Ballyward Plant Services .
Philip Rice from Jones Construction with their new Sany SY135C with Titus thumb, adding to the SY215 and SY26 they already own from Sleator Plant.
William Burleigh Co Fermanagh SY135C from Sleator Plant.
A new Takeuchi TB216 collected by OM Utilities in Dungannon from Alan Milne Trators Newry.
George Gamble takes delivery of a New Yanmar SV17 from Crumlin Plant Sales.
Hitachi ZX135US-7 blade - Farrelly Heavy Haulage Ltd, Navan sold by TBF Thompson Construction Machinery.
A new Dieci Icarus 45.17 delivered to LR Kennedy in Craigavon by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
The first of two new JCB A45EH Boom Lifts delivered to Darren McKinty of McKinty Construction.
Kelly Contracts collecting their SY18C from Sleator Plant.
New Yanmar SV26 Black edition for MFL Hire supplied by Crumlin Plant Sales.
Cairan Morgan & family picking up their new Giant GS950T from Ballyward Plant Services.
A new Takeuchi TB290-2 delivered to Ryan and Charlie Fay in Dungannon by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
Eamon O’ Sullican of Grassroots landscapes in Dungannon with the new Takeuchi TB210R supplied by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
Azil Storage Systems GS1932ED from Sleator Plant.
Aspen Ireland take delivery of a New Yanmar SV08 and Messersi TC50 from Crumlin Plant Sales.
A Bonar & Son taking delivery of SY35U from Sleator Plant.
New Yanmar SV15 and Tecna Rockhammer for MF Contracts supplied by Crumlin Plant Sales.
Hitachi ZX210LC-7 w. Trimble 3D control technology - Sampar Ltd, Ardee sold by TBF Thompson Construction Machinery.
Thank you to Adam Turkington on the purchase of his second new JCB 540-180 Hi-Viz Telehandler.
A new Giant GS950T for Gillespie tree care, from Ballyward Plant Services.
Three new Develon excavators for Down Hire Centre, from Ballyward Plant Services.
QRS Ltd have just delivered 4 Terex Cedarapids Screens to Kilsaran Ltd for their Gallstown Quarry, final screens project.
New Yanmar VIO57 supplied to Brendan Lynch by Crumlin Plant Sales.
A new Develon DX55r-7 for Flanagan contracts, from Ballyward Plant Services.
Torrent Industrial Services collecting their SY26C from Sleator Plant.
A Dieci Agri PLus 42.7GD delivered to Robert Woods of Terralift in Castleblaney by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
Hitachi ZX26U & ZX33U - Kilroe Plant Hire Ltd, Inverin, Galway sold by TBF Thompson Construction Machinery.
New Case 921G supplied by Cowan Bros to Coyle Coal Ltd,, Maydown.
Hitachi ZX130LCN-7 - Jack Doyle (J D Excavations Tyrone Ltd), Cookstown sold by TBF Thompson Construction Machinery.
First Takeuchi TB320 sold in Ireland by Alan Milne Tractors Newry to S Boyle Civils in Donegal.
Richie Brophy Kilkenny bought a demo Hidromek 102b from AJ Armstrong.
Barry Rogers from Associated Construction Cookstown taking delivery of a New Sunward 25UF and plant trailer from AJ Armstrong.
New Rotair MDVN82KH compressor for Mcmillan Commerical supplied by Crumlin Plant Sales.
A new Engcon EC206bs twin hitch system for Savage Contracts, from Ballyward Plant Services.
New Yanmar VIO27 for MML Contracts supplied by Crumlin Plant Sales.
A new JCB 1 Tonne High Tip Dumper recently delivered to Colin Bradley Contracts! Thank you for choosing Dennison JCB.
SY35U collected for Roy Boles Kitchen & Bedrooms Co Fermanagh from Sleator Plant.
Hitachi ZX210LC-7 - Glenturas Construction Ltd, Galliagh sold by TBF Thompson Construction Machinery.
New Yanmar VIO80 supplied to Kane Contracts by Crumlin Plant Sales.
New Dieci Agri farmer 34.7 delivered to Plunkett Rafferty in Co Armagh by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
A new Giant GT5048 out for delivery to K Moffett, from Ballyward Plant Services.
A clean JCB270 delivered to Cladybeg in Armagh by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
New Case CX130E supplied by Cowan Bros to J & M Begley Building Contractors Ltd, Carrickmore.
2 x Hitachi ZX135US-7 - Cappawhite CE Ltd, Tipperary sold by TBF Thompson Construction Machinery.
A new Takeuchi TB230 delivered to Demesne Contract in Seaforde bt Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
SDC TRAILERS taking delivery of 11 Sunward scissor lifts from AJ Armstrong.
Simon Hill and his father collecting new Sunward 18UF from AJ Armstrong.
King Bros Armagh taking delivery of a New Sunward 60UF With HOLP Rototop Hitch and Sunward hammer to join the Hidromek 500 A J Armstrong and Sons supplied 2 years ago.
Seamus from Bradley Utilities Donegal collecting a new Sunward 35UF from AJ Armstrong.
7 Priory Plant Hire Cookstown taking delivery of their 4th Sunward 25UF in 4 months from AJ Armstrong.
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
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