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Great Turn Out for Kubota UK Construction Demo Day
Kubota UK’s recent construction demo day in the grounds of the Heart of England Conference Centre in Coventry, Warwickshire, attracted plenty of interest, with invited dealers, customers and the Press able to get up close to the manufacturer’s entire mini excavator range
The event formed part of celebrations to mark the manufacturer’s 25years as the UK & Republic of Ireland’s number one supplier of mini-excavators to the construction industry. It also allowed those in attendance to meet Kubota’s management team and technical experts first hand to talk through the very latest advances in mini excavator technology, and provided an opportunity to interact with the recently appointed Construction Division Manager for the UK and Ireland, Rob White. A lively Q&A session saw a range of topics discussed, including the future plans for the UK and Ireland’s best selling mini-excavator manufacturer and we were also given an insight into potential forthcoming industry trends and technological advancements. Many who attended the event also took the opportunity to put a variety of mini excavators through their paces and were also able to learn firsthand from technical experts on how to get the very best from the equipment. Among those machines was the new KX019-4 SI HGL, Kubota’s first LPG powered mini-excavator, and the KC70H-4e electric track dumper. Utilising the very latest in next-generation low and zero emissions technology, this ‘Smart Energy Solutions’ range has the same proven performance and capabilities of Kubota’s most compact and versatile machines. Powered by LPG, The KX019-4 SI HGL’s Spark Ignition engine enables dramatically reduced emissions and toxicity in the familiar form factor, while offering the same levels of performance and productivity as the standard KX019-4. Compared to diesel engines, the new excavator emits almost zero particulate matter and reduces nitrous oxide and
hydrocarbon emissions to just 5% of an equivalent diesel engine. On site, LPG offers a number of advantages over traditional fuels. Refueling is simpler, faster, and unlike diesel fuel, the canisters cannot contaminate the work site through spillages. Kubota’s Spark Ignition engine no longer requires a diesel particulate filter, reducing the need for maintenance, and operates at lower noise levels, while providing the same levels of power as before. The KX0194 LPG’s all-day uptime, quieter operation and 2.5m dig depth ensure the new machine is among Kubota’s most versatile mini-excavators, capable of operating anywhere and at any time of day or night The KC70H-4e offers the same performance and productivity improvements introduced with the KC70 in a fully electric, zeroemission solution. Its fast charge time and all day continuous run time work hand-in-hand to maximise time on site, while its 700kg load capacity, compact design and low noise engine make the machine perfect for use in any environment at any time of day, including in low emissions areas. NEW 5-TONNE RANGE
Also there were the three new models in Kubota’s 5-tonne mini-excavator range. Powered by a high power, low emission, Stage V compliant Kubota built engine, the KX060-5, U56-5 and U50-5 all offer impressive digging force and arm reach, ensuring even the toughest jobs can be completed quickly and efficiently. Innovative high performance features include a load sensing hydraulic system for smoother operation regardless of load size, float function for easy ground finishing, as well as an autoshift system that offers intuitive control when dozing and turning. The three models all feature newly designed interiors and exteriors, including a larger and quieter cabin, enhanced insulation, improved visibility, as well as a redesigned exterior to give the machines a modern aesthetic. Standard features on all three machines include a full-colour, high resolution seven-inch LCD digital display for better operator control and information, bright LED work lights, H-shaped track for greater stability, as well as a high visibility seat belt and alarm. This product demonstration day certainly was a perfect way to mark the famous eyecatching orange livery brand’s 25th anniversary in the UK. The event was one of a series being held during a 12-month activity campaign throughout 2022 to celebrate the milestone.
www.kubota.co.uk
COUNTY CLARE CRUSHING CONTRACTOR OPTS FOR MORE METSO CRUSHERS AND KOMATSU EXCAVATORS
County Clare based Atlantic Plant Hire not only operates nationwide providing a full range of plant hire, but it also has a busy contract crushing service which is currently carrying out a variety of projects for clients across the country.
It recently completed a significant deal with McHale Plant Sales to add a Metso Outotec Lokotrak LT300HP mobile cone crusher and four Komatsu excavators of various sizes to bolster its fleet of around 20 mobile crushers and screeners, as well as excavators, dump trucks and rock breakers. Atlantic Plant Hire has been operating since 2005 and work in a lot of quarries around the country, in addition to road construction projects and wind farm contracts. “We invested in two other Metso Outotec crushers, two LT120s, last year and they have been performing exceptionally well, so we had no hesitation in adding the new Lokotrack to our fleet,” says Atlantic Plant Hire’s managing director Gearoid O’Callaghan. “We also acquired a Metso LT106 jaw crusher in 2019 and that’s been serving us very well, too. In my opinion the Metso brand is the best in the market.” Among the contracts the crushers have been working on is the €280m Macroom bypass in County Cork, a 22kms stretch of dual carriageway which is scheduled to open to traffic next year. “We’ve been dealing with McHale plant sales with depots in Tipperary and Dublin for the last 15 to 20 years. The service and support they provide has always been excellent so we are very happy to be a repeat customer.” The robust Metso Outotec LokotrackLT300HP, which is already earning its keep on a road project, is an efficient, versatile and flexible secondary and tertiary track mounted mobile crusher which is easily transported on a low loader from site to site. Powered by a CAT 403 kW (540 hp) engine, it features the most popular Nordberg HP300 cone crushing unit, which provides optimised performance,
efficiency and high capacity in crushing. The crusher is suitable for crushing hard and soft rocks such as granite, limestone as well as river gravel. The proven crusher cavity can be selected according to specific application requirements to achieve high capacity, top-end product quality and low wear part costs. The optimised power transmission system, on the other hand, makes the Lokotrack LT300HP extremely cost-effective. Metso Outotec IC process control system enables singlebutton start and stop and features in-built troubleshooting as well as various parameter selections. All Lokotrack mobile crushers in the same crushing process can be linked with Metso Outotec IC. Furthermore, the whole process can be monitored and controlled conveniently from the excavator cab with Metso Outotec ICr remote control software. The Lokotrack LT300HP, which comes in at around 43 tonnes, can be optimised for different needs and applications with a variety of optional feeding and screening equipment. An optional integrated screen module is available for producing calibrated end products. In addition, Lokotrack LT300HP can also be used as part of a multistage plant with different mobile screens. JAW CRUSHERS
Meanwhile, the two LT120 mobile jaw crushers acquired by Atlantic Plant Sales last year both weigh in at 63 tonnes, feature a Nordberg C120 crushing unit and are powered by a CAT 315hp engine. These full spec models are fitted with Metrics remote monitoring, ICr remote control, a long main conveyor, magnetic separator, automatic lubrication unit, radio remote control, water
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spraying system, belt protection plate and a rubber lining for the feeder and hopper. The feed hopper sides equipped with a patented securing system allow the unit to be ready for crushing only moments after arriving onsite. The side conveyor with its excellent stockpile capacity is easy to install on either side of the unit. KOMATSU EXCAVATORS
As we mentioned, this latest and substantial deal with McHale Plant Sales also included four Komatsu excavators. “Our operators are big fans of the Komatsu brand,” says Gearoid. “They pack plenty of power, have comfortable cabs which provide an excellent working environment, and are driver friendly; what’s not to like about them.” The delivery from McHale’s included a 46 tonne Komatsu PC490/LC-11 and two 35 tonne Komatsu PC360LC/ NLC-11 machines, all featuring Komatsu EU Stage V engines which provide a significant reduction in fuel consumption, between 5% and 11% depending on model and engine size, according to the manufacturer. All feature Komatsu’s auto idle shutdown which automatically turns off the engine after it idles for a set period of time. This feature can easily be programmed from 5 to 60 minutes, to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, and to lower operating costs. An Eco-gauge and the Eco guidance tips on the cab monitor further encourage efficient operations. Thanks to the combination of the silent engine and the cab’s superb sound isolation, these Komatsu excavators are as quiet to operate as the average family car. A large TFT monitor presents a clearer, easierto-use operator interface. Komatsu excavators are also renowned for having what is regarded as the safest cab in the world. A tubular design developed specifically for hydraulic excavators protects the operator in even the most extreme rollover accident; driver safety is Komatsu’s first priority – and all feature joysticks with proportional control button for attachments, armrest with simple height adjustment, plenty of storage room, a hot and cool box, a magazine box and a cup holder.
Tim Shanahan Managing Director McHale Plant Sales with Gearoid O Callaghan, Managing Director Atlantic plant Hire
MINI EXCAVATOR
The fourth Komatsu in the order was a PC30MR-5, a mini hydraulic excavator with a tight tail swing radius and swing booms that hug the machine to help with work in tight spaces. The PC30MR-5, which has been fitted with a rock breaker, uses up to five percent less fuel than its MR-3 predecessors, with no loss of performance or productivity. The short-tail PC30MR-5 delivers optimal power and digging speed, even in confined spaces where traditional machines can’t work such as road works and demolition sites. Sturdy and very stable, it guarantees maximum safety and offers complete operator confidence in any working conditions. A high-definition 3.5” LCD monitor provides excellent visibility. The high-definition LCD panel is less affected by the viewing angle and surrounding brightness, while various alerts and machine information are displayed in a simple format. Useful information such as operation records, machine setting and maintenance data are also provided. The operator can easily switch screens. “We are well pleased with the Komatsu machines. We are familiar with the brand which has always proven reliable for us,” says Gearoid, “and these four excavators are a great addition to our fleet.” He adds: “We carry out a lot of our own routine maintenance on all of our equipment, but for the more complex issue we rely on McHale’s who are always quick to respond, which helps keep the potential for downtime to an absolute minimum.”
RIVERRIDGE CHARITY GOLF DAY WELL SUPPORTED
Waste management company, RiverRidge held its annual Charity Golf Day at Shandon Park Golf Club on Friday 9th September. Raising over £6k for its charity of the year, Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice. Waste management company, RiverRidge held its annual Charity Golf Day recently at Shandon Park Golf Club, raising over £6,000 for its charity of the year, the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice.
There was a great turnout on the day with 16 teams taking part on what is a gem of a parkland golf course, situated in the leafy suburbs of East Belfast. The course combines a tough championship layout with some beautifully sculptured holes, great views of the city, and a clever layout which makes this one of the great Irish parkland challenges. The course record is just six under par despite the best efforts of some of the world’s finest golfers. RiverRidge would like to say a big thank you to all those who attended, donated, sponsored holes and prizes, or those who supported in any way. Your contribution will make a huge difference to the charity.
Pictured are representatives from BCM Security Associates. The MacAllister McAleese team enjoys RiverRidge’s Charity Golf Day. O’Connell Tyre and Services attended RiverRidge’s Charity Golf Day.
The spirits were high at RiverRidge’s Charity Golf Day which took place at Shandon Park Golf Club Enjoying the Charity Golf Day are (L-R) representatives from ART Engineering and Cara O’Kane from RiverRidge. McKinstry Group attended RiverRidge’s Golf Day which raised over £6k for Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice.
CP HIRE TAKE DELIVERY OF 12 NEW TAKEUCHI MINI DIGGERS
VIDEO STORY
TAKEUCHI TB216 COMPACT TRACKED EXCAVATORS SCAN THE QR CODE TO WATCH THE VIDEO.
CP Hire has recently taken delivery of no less than 12 new Takeuchi TB216 compact tracked excavators supplied by Newry based Alan Milne Tractors.
With a head office in Coleraine, the family run plant hire company has seven depots located across Northern Ireland and the new driver friendly Takeuchi machines are already earning their keep with customers. Described as the UK’s favourite mini excavator, the compact 1.6 tonne machines provide operators with a nice blend of power and functionality, having been designed for maximum operator comfort, performance, and serviceability. “The Takeuchi brand has always been very popular with our customers and in these days of long lead times to have all 12 machines arrive with us in one delivery is testament to the excellent level of service and support provided by the team at Alan Milne Tractors,” commented Andrew Hutchinson, managing director of CP Hire. “The new mini diggers are ideal for the rental market and appeal to a wide range of our customers, not least because the machines are very easy to operate, have a comfortable cab with good all round visibility and are strong and reliable.” Added Ross Milne: “We’re delighted to have been able to supply these new Takeuchi mini diggers to CP Hire. We are confident their customers will be very satisfied with the performance of the machines. CP Hire have always been a pleasure to deal with over the years and we trust our relationship with the company will continue for many more to come.” It is not difficult to see why CP Hire customers favour the mini
diggers which now come with the Takeuchi Security System as standard. The TB216 has excellent working ranges and a powerful engine for a machine in this weight class. Its extendable track frame allows the machine to access sites with narrow width restrictions (extending 9801300mm) with added quick-fit bolt-on blade extensions. The long boom and dipper arm delivers excellent operating performance – breakout force, reach and dig depth for greater productivity. With a dig depth up to 2390mm and dump height of 2705mm with ground level reach to 4035mm, the TB216 outperforms for its compact size, while its powerful traction force makes for excellent turning and travel in challenging ground conditions. Having a top mounted boom cylinder improves excavating visibility and prevents potential impact damage from the bucket or debris contact. All hoses are routed through the boom and arm for an extra level of protection. The TB216 cab, which has an easy gas-strut assisted lift window that simply slides into the roof space, offers up to 20% additional room than competitor models, while its smooth and precise responsive joystick controls help increase operator comfort and reduce operator fatigue. The machine’s Multi-Information Display is well positioned, with an enhanced illuminated VDU that is easy to read in all lighting conditions, and displays key operator information and machine maintenance alerts. Other features include multi adjustable seat, adjustable arm rests, excellent foot room and folding foot rests and cushioned boom and swing cylinders to help reduce shock and vibration. Rear engine access provides convenient access for daily service checks, with a central cluster of routine maintenance points including hydraulic tank and filters, air and fuel filters and coolant levels and radiator, while battery and electrical components are conveniently located under the operator seat, lockable for added security. A remote gauge is also provided for assistance when refuelling and there’s a self-bleed system for quick restart if the machine runs out of fuel.
ANDREW HUTCHISON, MANAGING DIRECTOR, CP HIRE
Landline: 028 30821230 Ross Milne: 07541 318364 Matt Hogg: 07899 911135 Maurice McCrea: 07710 837590
