Heavy Equipment Guide June 2022, Volume 37, Number 6 by Baum Publications Ltd.

JUNE 2022

IN-DEPTH REPORT

ASPHALT PAVERS DESIGNED TO AVOID DOWNTIME DIVERSE INDUSTRIES DRIVE GROWTH FOR HEADWATER EQUIPMENT heavyequipmentguide.ca PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40069270

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COVER STORY IN-DEPTH REPORT: ASPHALT PAVER DESIGNS GET AROUND DOWNTIME

26 12

DOOSAN LOOKS TO THE FUTURE

HEADWATER EQUIPMENT EYES GROWTH

CRUSHING ROCK FOR ROAD

June 2022 | Volume 37, Number 6

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS & SECTIONS

Doosan looks to the future

In-depth report: asphalt paver designs get around downtime

News Room

Spotlight

Diverse industries drive growth for Sany and Headwater Equipment

In-Depth Report

Earthmoving

In with the new Hitachi

Compact Equipment

Doosan relaunches mini excavator line

Cranes

Big tech for compact equipment

Machine Control

Updates and innovation take mobile cranes to new heights

Equipment Roundup

Advertiser Index

Comprehensive machine control options add efficiency for asphalt operations

Crushing rock for road

From the Editor

JUNE 2022 | VOLUME 37 • NUMBER 6 EDITOR IN CHIEF Kaitlyn Till ktill@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 330 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Arturo Santiago asantiago@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 310 EDITOR Lee Toop ltoop@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 315 ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Sam Esmaili sam@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 110

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER Tina Anderson tanderson@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 222 DESIGN & PRODUCTION Morena Zanotto morena@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 325 PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Ken Singer ksinger@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 226 VICE PRESIDENT/CONTROLLER Melvin Date Chong mdatechong@baumpub.com

FOUNDER Engelbert J. Baum

Published by: Baum Publications Ltd. 124 - 2323 Boundary Road Vancouver, BC, Canada V5M 4V8

COVER PHOTO: ASTEC INDUSTRIES ROADTEC RP-190 HIGHWAY CLASS ASPHALT PAVER In-depth report: asphalt pavers Turn to page 18 .

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Heavy Equipment Guide serves the Canadian engineered construction industry including: roadbuilding and maintenance; highways, bridges, tunnels; grading and excavating; earthmoving; crushing; trucking and hauling; underground utilities; trenching; concrete paving; asphalt paving; demolition; aggregates production; fleet maintenance; and asset security and management. The magazine is distributed to key industry personnel involved in these sectors. Subscription Price: In Canada, CDN $91.00; Outside Canada, US$149. Heavy Equipment Guide is published ten times a year in January, February, March, April, May, June, July/August, September, October and November/December. Heavy Equipment Guide accepts no responsibility or liability for reported claims made by manufacturers and/or distributors for products or services; the views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Baum Publications Ltd. Copyright 2022, Baum Publications Ltd. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publishers. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. Printed in Canada on recycled paper by Mitchell Press Ltd. ISSN 1485-6085

WE’D LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU Do you have a job site story, innovation, or industry concern that our readers should know about? We’d like to hear from you. Contact: Editor in Chief Kaitlyn Till at ktill@baumpub.com or 604-291-9900 ext. 330

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FROM THE EDITOR

FROM THE EDITOR UNIQUE APPROACHES TO INFRASTRUCTURE WORK KEEP PUBLIC AND BUSINESSES IN MIND

am endlessly intrigued by the ways in which major infrastructure projects are completed in large cities, especially when there’s potential for major public impact. Vancouver’s advanced light rapid transit system, better known as Skytrain, has steadily expanded since its launch in 1986, and it’s on the move again today. The current part of the project is being built through some of the most densely populated and travelled portions of the city, and that has resulted in some unique approaches to construction. Skytrain started with a single line, the Expo Line, from downtown across the Fraser River to Surrey and was mostly built on elevated guideways following the route of historical streetcar and commuter rail lines cutting through key parts of the city, with a tunnel under the downtown core. After that, the Millennium Line was built, entirely at grade or above. The Evergreen Extension of the Millennium Line, which opened in 2016, takes that further with a deep tunnel under Burnaby Mountain. Stretching south, the Canada Line was the last major construction in a heavily populated area, in preparation for the 2010 Winter Olympics. It also used a long stretch of cutand-cover tunnel construction along the busy Cambie Street corridor. Work went long, many businesses closed and others lost money, and the lawsuits continue even today. The Broadway extension, which adds 5.7 km of line and six stations to the Millennium Line, will run under Broadway, one of the busiest arteries in Vancouver. Work is centred around bored tunnels, rather than cut-and-cover, to lessen the impact on the vast number of businesses along Broadway and nearby. Two tunnel boring machines, built by Herrenknecht, have arrived in Vancouver from Germany; the six-m-wide TBMs will be launched this summer with tunnelling expected to take about a year. In the meantime, station construction is underway, bringing challenges to avoid traffic disaster. Broadway provides a key route into the downtown core. It’s busy, and any slowdowns cause traffic snarls north–south into downtown as well as east–west. Construction could cause major problems. So, the contractors – a joint venture between Acciona and Ghella – put traffic first. At the key stations which could impact traffic, piles were installed as unobtrusively as possible, and once in place have

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

Work is centred around bored tunnels, rather than cut-andcover, to lessen the impact on the vast number of businesses along Broadway and nearby. provided the base for a traffic deck that will carry vehicles during station construction. The result will be minimal impact on traffic flow, while allowing crews to build the stations underneath those decks – reducing impact on the businesses nearby. This is a great approach that is allowing for a major infrastructure project to move forward at full speed while ensuring that the public is able to go about its business as close to normal as possible, and protects the needs of businesses in the area. Subway projects can be difficult to complete successfully with minimal impact – the Canada Line challenges and the lingering Eglinton Crosstown construction in Toronto are examples of that. Using some unique approaches to keep community concerns at front of mind, as the Broadway extension has done, is a good step for large infrastructure projects to consider.

Lee Toop Editor ltoop@baumpub.com heavyequipmentguide.ca

TAKING CONSTRUCTION

TO THE NEXT LEVEL.

2.7M square feet of exhibits / 130,000 attendees / 1,800 exhibitors / 150 education sessions

MARCH 14-18 / 2023 / LAS VEGAS / NEVADA

No matter what sector of construction you’re in, you’ll leave CONEXPO-CON/AGG with new ideas, new relationships, and new opportunities to grow your business, and your place within the industry. This isn’t just North America’s largest construction trade show, it’s taking construction to the next level.

LEARN MORE AT CONEXPOCONAGG.COM

2020 Attendee Britton Lawson, Veit and Company, Inc.

NEWS ROOM

HITACHI MANUFACTURING FACILITY UPGRADE TO BOOST COMPACT EQUIPMENT PRODUCTION BY 30 PERCENT

D STAY CURRENT www.heavyequipmentguide.ca CONNECT WITH US @HeavyEquipGuide

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

emand for compact machinery continues an upward trajectory as the COVID-19 pandemic subsides and the resultant recovery takes hold. In particular, steady housing starts are expected to drive growth in the North American market, where Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Inc. (HCMA) started its full-scale business expansion in March 2022. Taking a proactive approach to meet this future demand, Hitachi Construction Machinery will increase the production capacity for compact products such as excavators and wheel loaders produced at the Shiga Works facility of its consolidated subsidiary, Hitachi Construction Machinery Tierra Co., Ltd. The Shiga Works facility is forecast to produce approximately 30 percent more units by fiscal year 2025 compared to machine production in 2021. As part of the facility upgrade, Hitachi Construction Machinery Tierra plans to functionally enhance and relocate its product test site to an adjacent site by 2024, with the goal of advanced development of compact products. Because compact products frequently operate in urban areas, there is a growing need for high functionality, which requires more advanced development testing. In addition to an expansion of environment-resistant testing equipment, beginning in fiscal year 2024 Hitachi Construction Machinery Tierra will expand compact excavator and compact wheel loader testing, including structural rigidity tests, at a new location approximately twice the size of its previous site. Looking toward the future, the Hitachi Construction Machinery Group will continue to help resolve the customer issues of safety, productivity, and life cycle costs as a close and reliable partner. Construction of the test site is planned to begin in June 2022, and finish in April 2024.

E06-ECA Canada - NR.jpg

VOLVO CE OPENS EXPANDED ELECTRIC MACHINE LINEUP RESERVATIONS IN NORTH AMERICA

orth American Volvo Construction Equipment customers can reserve any of the company’s three newest electric machine models: the L20 Electric compact wheel loader and the EC18 and ECR18 Electric compact excavators. This brings the Volvo CE electric lineup to five machines. The Volvo CE 22-ton EC230 Electric excavator is also coming to North America for demos. The machine is not yet commercially available. The news was announced during the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo. In recent years, the show has expanded its focus from on-road vehicles to include off-road technology, making it a natural fit to introduce the ordering process for the new Volvo CE electric models. “Off-road equipment is the next frontier in electric vehicles, and Volvo CE is proud to lead the way in the construction industry’s sustainability journey,” said Stephen Roy, president, Region North America at Volvo CE. “Fleets need cleaner solutions to meet growing regulations and societal demand, and now we have five electric compact models for our customers to choose from.”

LIEBHERR USA HIGHLIGHTS PRODUCT RANGE AT FIRST EVENT IN NEWLY EXPANDED FACILITY

iebherr USA has hosted visitors from across the globe at the company’s first Customer Day. The event took place at Liebherr USA’s updated headquarters and facilities. Having moved into the expanded campus in April 2020, Customer Day provided the opportunity to reveal the $60 million facility enhancements. The enhancements comprise a new administrative building, workshop, training facility, a parts distribution warehouse including retail operations, and a wash bay building. At Customer Day, Liebherr USA also highlighted and demonstrated a range of products across all ten segments of the company’s business including earthmoving, mining, and mobile and crawler cranes.

EQUIPMENT CORPORATION OF AMERICA EXPANDS INTO WESTERN CANADA

he Equipment Corporation of America (ECA) has been awarded the sales territory of Western Canada by BAUER Maschinen and BAUER Equipment America. Foundation contractors in Western Canada can expect the same wide range of equipment, services, and parts ECA and ECA Canada offer in the Eastern United States and Canada. “We’re very excited about expanding our operations into Western Canada,” says Roy Kern, ECA president and CEO. “We’ll be locally supplying and stocking a full complement of BAUER products and accessories including BG drilling rigs, RTG piling equipment, KLEMM small diameter drills, BAUER MAT/Obermann slurry handling, mixing, and pumping equipment, MC duty-cycle cranes, and cutters.” ECA has been serving Eastern Canada as ECA Canada Company since 1999 through its Uxbridge, Ontario headquarters. This was a natural progression for BAUER to grow its presence in the western provinces of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia. ECA is planning to open a full-service facility in the Vancouver area with sales, parts, and services for all product lines. While existing employees will have an opportunity to relocate, ECA is ready to hire new local staff for the new branch.

BIG CHANGES ON THE GO FOR MANUFACTURERS Two manufacturers are making some major changes in the coming months. Check out Doosan’s plans for rebranding on page 12 and Hitachi’s growth in North America on page 30.

JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

NEWS ROOM

Doosan looks to the future COMPANY BUILDS TOWARDS REBRAND, NEW EQUIPMENT LINES BY ARTURO SANTIAGO, EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

oosan construction equipment can traditionally be recognized by its distinctive orange colour. Along with the Doosan name, it signaled the machines’ durability, comfort, and efficiency. After acquisition by Hyundai Heavy Industries in August 2021, Doosan Infracore North America (DINA) was given a period of up to three years to rebrand. Doosan decided to do it as soon as possible. One of the major reasons to do it quickly was to address the concerns of its staff, customers, and dealers and let them know that while the Doosan name and its badging will change, very little else will be different. Todd Roecker, Vice President of Growth Initiatives for Doosan Infracore North America, says, “Although the Doosan brand may not be around, everything else that you know and are familiar with will continue to operate as you have invested in. Our current plan, and so far we’re still on track, is that we will launch our new brand towards the end of this year with an official announcement being planned for CONEXPO 2023.” Roecker, who refers to the new unknown name as “Brand X,” says the powers that be are currently in discussions to create the new moniker. There is much to consider. He adds, “This isn’t just a North American change, this is a global name change. So, we have to look at the different ethnicities. We have to make sure considering the different cultures that the name we choose translates appropriately and in the right manner.” The iconic orange colour of the machines will remain, but some new colour scheme changes could be unveiled. What’s underneath that colour scheme – the technology and features that operators are accustomed to from Doosan equipment – is going to stay the same and will continue to evolve as already planned. While the visual appeal is going to change, there will also be additional nuances such as adjusted nomenclature and names of model lines. The new name will also likely tie in with Doosan’s unmanned, automated, AI-driven equipment development program known as Concept-X as it continues to

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

Doosan showcased Concept-X at a 2019 event in South Korea.

develop those initiatives, technologies, and the next generation of equipment. The intent is to showcase Hyundai and “Brand X” with separate booths at CONEXPO next year with an outdoor space for a live demonstration of the Concept-X program, which will feature a yet-to-be determined lineup of equipment. Roecker says, “The outdoor space is really going to be focused on next-generation technologies. We’ll go through the drone 3D mapping of the ground and how that works, the control centre and how that works, remote control operation and how that works. And, of course, it will all tie into our machine monitoring centre or our telematics.” The promotion and advertising of the Doosan brand will continue up until the change occurs. The reason behind this strategy is that people will be able to more strongly equate Doosan with the new “Brand X,” thus making the transition more easy. Roecker says, “We already have distribution. We already have dealers that are qualified. We have a parts supply, we have people, so we want to be able to leverage that.” The ultimate plan is for Hyundai Heavy Industries to be two independent companies; Doosan/Brand X and Hyundai will operate entirely separately with two distribution models. Investment in the Doosan/Brand X company in the North American market will increase with the addition of about 20 percent more employees, a machine monitoring centre, and other upgrades at the Suwanee, Georgia, facility. Doosan/

Although the Doosan brand may not be around, everything else that you know and are familiar with will continue to operate as you have invested in. Todd Roecker Vice President of Growth Initiatives, Doosan Infracore North America

New iSlip Control System

Brand X plans to launch roughly 32 new products between now and the end of 2024. Some will be next-generation machines, while others, like the new dozer models (including the Doosan DD100 launching in North America in Q3 2022) and new mini excavator line, will be new categories altogether. The excitement of being able to carry on an established reputation with a new name and new colour scheme with an eye on next generation technology was apparent with Roecker. And while we wait to discover what “Brand X” will be and what it will look like, Roecker says to customers old and new, “You shouldn’t be fearful to add to your fleet of Doosan equipment with more Doosan, or whatever the new brand becomes. We’re still here. We’re still going to be supporting you. Our dealers are still going to be supporting you and we’re continuing to expand in North America.” HEG

Easi-Pour Introduces iSlip Control System on its Slipform Paver Line iSlip allows more accurate, intelligent placement of concrete for your paving applications. With remote access, machine monitoring capabilities and so much more. The iSlip Control System sets a new standard for automated concrete placement.

Curb & Gutter | Sidewalk | Recreational Trails | Special Projects

1-800-368-8920 | www.easipour.com | sales@easipour.com Easi-Pour v5.indd 1

2022-03-16 10:01:03 AM

NEWS ROOM

VOLVO CE AND WORLD RX TO COLLABORATE ON DEVELOPING NEW RALLYCROSS RACE TRACKS

olvo CE has become the FIA World Rallycross Championship (World RX) official track building partner. Volvo CE decided to use its off-road expertise to help World RX in designing and testing a whole new series of track elements that will encourage the racing to be as thrilling as possible.

CATERPILLAR TO SPONSOR MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER

aterpillar has agreed to sponsor Major League Soccer (MLS). The sponsorship is designed to amplify the Caterpillar brand in the United States and Canada. The sponsorship supports Caterpillar’s efforts to evolve the brand and follows the company’s soccer-themed Cat Trial 12: “No Hands” video.

HYDREMA ADDS BOYD EQUIPMENT TO CANADIAN DEALER NETWORK

ydrema has expanded its Canadian dealer network with the addition of Boyd Equipment Ltd., in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Boyd Equipment is owned by father and son Mitch and Tyler Boyd. Mitch has over 40 years of experience in the industry. Boyd Equipment also sells Takeuchi products, Link-Belt cranes, and Link-Belt excavators.

WE KEEP CANADA ON TRACK

Call: 800-365-7260 Visit: morookacarriers.com

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

BOBCAT TO BUILD NEW 225,000-SQUARE-FOOT ASSEMBLY PLANT IN MINNESOTA

B FOUR CANADIAN DEALERS AMONG DOOSAN’S TOP 2021 NORTH AMERICAN DEALERSHIPS

oosan Infracore North America has released its top-performing dealers of 2021. The top 10 dealers are among more than 170 Doosan construction equipment dealers in North America. Four of the top dealers are Canadian including Brown’s Industrial Sales, CG Equipment, Paul Equipment and Sons, and Westerra Equipment. Doosan annually recognizes its heavy equipment dealers that have excelled in providing high-level performance in sales, parts, and service to customers in their respective markets. Barry Equipment Co., was named the top North American Doosan dealer of 2021 in its fifth year being recognized.

obcat Company plans to build an assembly plant in Rogers, Minnesota. This investment will add an additional 225,000 square feet in production capacity and enable the company to streamline efficiencies across its manufacturing footprint in the Midwest region. In addition, Bobcat will add more than 100 full-time positions at this location.

MORE NEWS www.heavyequipmentguide.ca

PROFESSIONAL HYBRID ELECTRIFIED MOBILE CRUSHING SOLUTIONS

ProTrack Equipment 11571 Mitchell Road Richmond, BC V6V 1T5 604-396-1120 info@protrackbc.com SBM MINERAL PROCESSING NORTH AMERICA

AMACO EQUIPMENT 5804 Datsun Road, Mississauga, ON L4W 1H2 Phone: (905) 670-3440 - Toll Free: 800-668-5355 - info@amacocei.com

650 RT. 112, St. Cesaire, Qc Jol 1t0, Canada P: 800-331-0043 – E-MAIL: americas@sbm-mp.at

JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

SPOTLIGHT

INTRODUCTIONS & UPDATES

COMPACT EXCAVATOR

FORESTRY DOZER

Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas

Compact excavator

The ZX50U-5N compact excavator has a compact reduced tailswing design making the 10,560-pound (4,790-kg) machine ideal for working in congested areas. An independent swing boom and 360-degree rotation let operators set up and work almost anywhere. Plus, virtually unlimited visibility and precise control make it a great tool for excavating around existing utilities. The ZX50U-5N allows the engine speed to be matched to the job with power/economy work modes, which are usually only available on larger excavator models. A standard quick-couplerequipped, boom-mounted auxiliary line makes attachment hookup on the ZX50U-5N easy. An auxiliary function lever (AFL) is available with an analog switch, trigger switch, and horn for running attachments such as a breaker or an attachment with a swing. DRUM CUTTER

Tigercat

Forestry dozer

Tigercat Industries has developed a forestry dozer, the TCi 920. The dozer will be branded under the new TCi badge. The new TCi 920 is designed specifically for use in logging applications. The TCi 920 is powered by the Tigercat FTP N45 Tier 4 Final engine rated at 101 kw (135 hp). It is equipped with a 190-mm (7.5-inch) pitch undercarriage, a responsive closed-loop track drive system, impact-resistant belly pans, and durable structural components throughout. The TCi 920 provides the ideal amount of power, durability, and versatility for deck clearing, roadbuilding, and clean-up activities on logging sites. The forestry cab offers the operator clear sightlines augmented by the sloped front hood and rear-mounted exhaust. The cab is quiet and comfortable with a heated and cooled air ride seat, ergonomic armrest mounted joysticks, and a large touchscreen.

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

Epiroc

Drum cutter

Epiroc has launched the new V Cutter drum cutter that uses a v-shaped design. The design offers energy savings of up to 40 percent, according to Epiroc. The V-shaped design enables a cut with a flat base, and no material is left untouched between the drums. Where a regular drum cutter must move side to side to create an even trench, an approach that causes extra wear on the carrier arm, the VC 2000 can reach the same result by just going straight. It works like a bucket, which makes it easier to use, friendlier for the carrier, and consumes less energy and time. Additional features including spur gears, adoptable high torque gear motor, and the QuickSnap retaining system, are all incorporated into the new VC 2000.

METRICS MONITORING

FLATDECK TRAILER

PJ Trailers

Metso Outotec

PJ Trailers has updated its Low-Pro Flatdeck with Duals (LD) flatdeck trailer. The LD 25,000 GVWR now has a new gooseneck design, coupler, frame design, suspension, and more. Many of the new standard features, like the Demco EZ Latch gooseneck coupler and TwistGuard frame design, make the LD ideal for hauling heavy loads. Giving the LD an all-new look is the ProBeam gooseneck which is constructed from a single piece of steel and redistributes stress across the neck’s frame for fewer stress points. The TwistGuard frame design provides T-shaped intersecting pipe supports to reduce frame twist and improve torque control. According to PJ Trailers, testing shows up to a 60 percent reduction in twist compared to non-torque tube trailer frames. The LD is the first gooseneck to feature PJ Trailers’ new Demco EZ Latch gooseneck coupler. Unlike a standard trailer coupler, a Demco EZ Latch system automatically latches when dropped onto a hitch ball, giving trailer owners and operators a secure and easy way to hitch up and tow.

Metso Outotec has launched an upgraded version of Metrics, a cloud-based tool for real-time monitoring of aggregates customers’ Lokotrack mobile crushers and screens. The new remote monitoring solution will bring better connectivity and optimization benefits to crushing processes. The solution has been developed together with distributors and customers and offers several features to help achieve sustainability and operational goals. The new Metrics features include CO2 tracking, 24/7 access to real-time data, a maintenance module, critical dashboards for utilization, and geolocation. Additionally, the new Metrics allows remote troubleshooting. The user interface can be tailored to address different customer needs. New features and functions can be also updated remotely. Retrofit kits are available for select legacy Lokotrack crushers and screens.

Redesigned flatdeck trailer

Upgraded monitoring tool

JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

IN-DEPTH REPORT: ASPHALT PAVERS

ASPHALT PAVER D GET AROUND DOW

Vögele Super 1303-3i asphalt paver

DESIGNS OWNTIME

IN-DEPTH REPORT ASPHALT PAVERS BY LEE TOOP, EDITOR

IN-DEPTH REPORT: ASPHALT PAVERS

job,” Hagy said. “By using common, easily available hose sizes and fittings you don’t have to wait around for a service call – in most cases you can get off-the-shelf replacements.” A collection of important and frequently used parts can be a big help to paving crews, noted Chaunce Edwards, technical support specialist with SMS Equipment, which represents BOMAG. “We have uptime kits that are developed with any items that you might need to finish out the day – let’s say you’re paving and run into a failure; the model specific kits we have contain key components which we sell as an assembly to the end user,” Edwards described. “This is something the operator or foreman can have in their truck. If they happen to go down, they have this stuff on hand to keep the unit running DESIGNED TO STAY ON THE JOB and get it through the shift.” When it comes to the design aspects of pavers and screeds BOMAG machines have easy-to-replace wear items throughthat help keep them in the field and out of the repair bay, manuout, such as sectional floor plates that can be individually facturers have taken a variety of approaches to expand uptime. replaced rather than having wear across the whole floor, EdEase of daily maintenance, on-board monitoring, and other wards noted. This can eliminate longer downtime or expensive features are several areas kept in mind during paver design. off-season replacement. Blaw-Knox has taken an approach to ensure that all parts At Dynapac, design starts from the bottom and works of today’s complex pavers are easier to maintain, according to upward, giving their pavers strength while reducing stress on Director of Engineering Bill Laing. the machine’s tracks, according to Vijay Palanisamy, director “New high-tech parts that are more durable and require less – product marketing and communications. The iTrack intelliattention is the name of the game. The use of higher quality gent track system is available on the company’s D25 and D30 components like lifetime lubricated bearings in the auger-conhighway-class pavers. “We used a box frame design, which is a very unique design principle that reduces the stress on the tracks itself . . . so you don’t have to change the track components very often,” Palanisamy related. “Typically if you run a track on loose gravel or other certain places it can tend The use of higher quality components like to throw the tracks off in a normal design. With our intelligent track system, it automatically lifetime lubricated bearings in the augerstops the tracks if the pressure is lower than conveyor system is one example of how what it needs to be.” Ease of use and long life of components are modern technology is increasing uptime important parts of Caterpillar’s paving equipfor contractors. ment, according to sales support consultant Jon Anderson. He noted that sealed bearings Bill Laing on track systems, a screed heating system that uses an integrated generator built for the life Director of Engineering, Blaw-Knox of the paver, machined screed frames to make screed plate installation and levelling easier, and sealed pods with a 500-hour service interval on the screed’s vibratory system all deliver big improveveyor system is one example of how modern technology is ments to uptime. increasing uptime for contractors,” Laing said. For Vögele, a big part of uptime focuses on redundancy. Jim Modern powertrains are more sophisticated but also more Holland, North American vice president of sales, explained that durable and dependable, he noted. Plus, consideration is given many systems on Vögele pavers are designed so that if someto areas that might not be the first to spring to mind for buyers, thing goes down, there are ways to ensure the machine can such as asphalt cleanup. Laing noted the use of semi-autokeep working. mated wash-down systems that reach hard to access parts of a “We know you have perishable product in front of the paver. paver, as well as a move away from fasteners such as nuts and Our goal is, if the engine and the undercarriage are working bolts that can be difficult to clean, as routes that Blaw-Knox has and the final drives are moving, we want to be able to have you taken in its design efforts. up and going within 10 or 15 minutes,” Holland said. That’s Standardized design aids in reducing the amount of time a accomplished by the ability to pull hoses, coils, or other small machine may be down for repair and can allow crews to get parts from systems that might not be in use at that time and back up and running quickly, according to Keith Hagy, paving replace the failed parts on the spot, allowing the paver to keep product manager with Astec Industries. While dealers and manufacturers appreciate ongoing service contracts with their working and finish the job before service is done. Access is another area that has been given more considercustomers, they also recognize that day to day work needs to ation on newer pavers, providing operators greater opportukeep going, so designs have begun to take that into account nity to complete daily maintenance tasks. Hagy pointed out with things like common, easily acquired parts. that the ability to fully raise a hood or use easy to open side “Hydraulics is a big area; you don’t want a hydraulic leak on a sphalt paving work is fast and demanding. Contractors need to be ready to accept trucks, get a mat laid down, and get compactors on it as efficiently as possible to ensure the quality of the surface is ideal. That’s why reliability is key for asphalt pavers and screeds – if the machine goes down, the whole process goes down, and someone isn’t getting paid. Heavy Equipment Guide consulted a panel of asphalt paving experts to discuss the features and functions of today’s asphalt pavers and screeds and how these machines have been improved to ensure the easiest maintenance and best possible uptime.

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

A LONG WAY

TOGETHER

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IN-DEPTH REPORT: ASPHALT PAVERS

If we do get a phone call from the operator saying they’re having a problem with the machine, we can go in through telematics, view the error codes, then diagnose and guide them through getting that unit back up and running. Chaunce Edwards Technical Support Specialist, SMS Equipment/BOMAG Easy daily checks, like those on BlawKnox pavers, improve maintenance.

BOMAG BF200 asphalt paver

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

panels to access a paver engine makes it more likely that daily maintenance checks will be carried out on the proper schedule, and when work is required reduces the challenges for service technicians. In addition, Astec offers a backup hydraulic system that operates manually – when a machine goes down, it’s difficult to gain access under the hood and elsewhere if the hydraulics are not working, so a backup is key for the best access possible. Design for access is important to Vögele customers, Holland said, and the company has made an effort to ensure that all its key systems are simple to access – including some of the larger parts, like the direct-drive generator, for example. When generators need to be replaced it’s often a difficult task because they’re installed below the engines on many pavers, he said; Vögele makes their generator easier to access, reducing downtime to hours instead of days. Dynapac offers the ability to push a button even when the engine isn’t running to allow the whole hood to lift, providing easy access to the engine compartment, according to Palanisamy. Several manufacturers have made it easier to reach areas where asphalt might collect and harden, allowing for easier cleaning.

MAINTENANCE FEATURES EXPANDED

Manufacturers have given maintenance needs even more thought beyond making daily checks easier. There are plenty of features that can make life easier for workers who need to maintain and service pavers. Laing said that pavers have moved towards more ground level checks over time, and visibility to encourage maintenance has improved as well, including a maintenance “race track” chart that uses diagrams to note the maintenance needs of Blaw-Knox pavers. “Each circle signifies a maintenance interval with leader lines that point to the area requiring service. Plus, a symbol indicates what service needs to be done,” Laing said. “Further clarification can be found in the operator’s manual, and decals located near the maintenance point on the machine help identify the point of service.” BOMAG has developed integrated drain points on its pavers, providing centralized remote locations where fluids can be drained easily, rather than climbing all over the unit to perform scheduled maintenance, Edwards noted. “As a maintenance guy you’re dealing with one area on the machine, and it helps with environmental impact, because we’re not just draining oil and trying to capture it running out from everywhere – we have a system where we can actually drain that into a pail, controlled.” For Astec, grouping of filters and grease banks has helped make it easier to get maintenance done as well. “We keep things grouped in a common area – it makes life easier for the operators,” he said. “They’re not climbing all over the machine trying to find their access points,” Hagy said. “That helps reinforce the habit of daily maintenance . . . easier, more visible, and more accessible.” Regular greasing is important to ensure pavers keep running, and manufacturers have taken that into consideration. Palanisamy said Dynapac has cut down on the greasing on key systems to help cut down on daily maintenance time. “Customers can order an optional auto lube system so you don’t have to grease the augers and conveyors, which has the most daily grease points on the machine,” he noted. “On top of those daily areas, we have virtually eliminated the grease points on the track system, so we have minimized daily greasing across the machine.”

A built-in cleaning assist system on Dynapac machines also aids in wrapping up the day’s operations, he added. The system runs augers and conveyors slowly, allowing the crew to use the built-in emulsion spraying system to remove asphalt before it solidifies. Those kinds of additions ensure that crews can complete their tasks within the set times that are often part of road work contracts.

We know you have perishable product in front of the paver. Our goal is, if the engine and the undercarriage are working and the final drives are moving, we want to be able to have you up and going within 10 or 15 minutes. Jim Holland Vice President of Sales, Vögele

A track plow ahead of the paver can aid in improving cleanliness, Holland added. “With trucks or even transfer vehicles there will be piles . . . so that track plow pushing that material out the way is a big help to try to protect that undercarriage,” he said. In addition, Vögele machines use channel wipers and other tools to push asphalt away from critical parts.

TELEMATICS ADD AWARENESS AND IMPROVE RESPONSIVENESS

On-site maintenance is key to paver operations, but just as important is awareness – the ability to track maintenance and usage, and prepare for service work well in advance. Telematics has become a big part of the puzzle for paving operations. “With a lot of asphalt standing in front of you, you want to make sure that things are running the way they should, and if there are any issues, you are immediately able to spot or predict it – and when it happens, prevent it,” Palanisamy said. Dynapac’s Dyn@ Link telematics system is standard, and offers both the basics of location and geofencing as well as diagnostic codes and usage. “Telematics can be set up to alert a designated individual of upcoming service needed. A text message or email can be sent ahead of the scheduled service,” noted Henry Polk, pavers product manager for BOMAG Americas. “Service techs can retrieve fault codes and pack their repair parts accordingly.” Systems that link equipment and job sites to the back office allow for proper parts availability and planned downtime when it’s necessary, Anderson noted. When service teams know the location of the machine, the problems being reported, and the parts they need ahead of time, much less time is taken in returning that machine to work. In some cases, Edwards said, it’s possible to sort problems out remotely and save the time to get a technician to the machine – especially important in remote areas. “If we do get a phone call from the operator saying they’re JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

IN-DEPTH REPORT: ASPHALT PAVERS having a problem with the machine, we can go in through telematics, view the error codes, then diagnose and guide them through getting that unit back up and running,” he said. In addition, customers are able to track their machine usage, which helps plan for off-season maintenance and updates. “We can monitor the duty cycle on the engine, the hours the unit is putting on through every day, and come up with an idea of how much material they’re moving through that machine. We can use that to forecast wear parts and other inventory to bring in,” Edwards said.

You may have a great tractor and material flow, but it’s only as good as your screed – every quarter, have your screed levelled. That’s your moneymaker – taking care of that screed plate is huge. Keith Hagy Paving Product Manager, Astec Industries

Caterpillar AP455 asphalt paver

Telematics provides insight that might not be immediately obvious for paver operation, something that can change the bottom line significantly, Holland noted. One example he offered was of a contractor who had two identical machines that were burning different amounts of fuel in the same working time. Through reviewing the telematics, it became obvious that one was working in the Eco mode, which reduces fuel costs, and the other was in Max mode full time and burning an unnecessary amount of fuel. Just recognizing that erroneous setting is enough to cut significant costs, Holland said. Laing related that planning can be a huge part of reducing the bottom line for maintenance work on asphalt pavers. “The telematics system can help the technician bring the right tools and potentially the right repair parts, thus increasing the likelihood of repairing the machine on one trip, versus multiple trips,” Laing said. Remote systems like Astec’s Guardian telematics solution can also handle a variety of other functionality for operators, Hagy noted. Functions like travel speed and traction control can be set remotely depending on the customer requirements for specific jobs, saving the need to send a technician, and when grade control is being used, specific parameters can be set from the office while paving.

TOP TIPS FOR UPTIME SUCCESS

Roadtec RP-195 Highway Class asphalt paver

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

When it comes to the top suggestions for keeping pavers on the job site and out of the shop, one point rises to the fore: cleanliness. A clean machine is important to keep things working smoothly. “Asphalt buildup not only affects the operation of machine components, it also increases the time and effort it takes to perform maintenance tasks,” Anderson said. “Machine design

Dynapac D30W wheeled asphalt paver

plays an important role by limiting channels and surfaces for asphalt to build up on. Shorter front hopper aprons and hydraulic fold hopper aprons help with cleanout, while heavy-duty flashing at the front and rear of the hopper limit spills.” Edwards agreed, pointing out that pavers that aren’t cleaned up at the end of a shift can mean trouble when the next crew can’t see into certain areas that may be on the verge of failure. “Cleanliness is a huge thing when they’re doing their daily walkarounds and checks – obviously, the cleaner it is, the better a visual they can get of that.” Wear parts management is an important part of regular maintenance, and it’s key to watch areas like screed plates, floor liners, and conveyor components to be ready ahead of time when they have to be replaced, Polk suggested. “Order replacement parts ahead of time and schedule the paver for some shop time before something fails.” Monitoring the screed to ensure it remains level and is properly maintained is just as important as the paver itself, Hagy advised. “You may have a great tractor and material flow, but it’s only as good as your screed – every quarter, have your screed levelled,” he said. “That’s your moneymaker – taking care of that screed plate is huge.” Daily maintenance needs to be top priority, especially with the rugged way in which pavers are used. Visual inspections and greasing when the machine is warm are integral to proper maintenance. Edwards advised that visual checks should be done even if there’s an auto greaser on the paver, because there may be parts that are showing accelerated wear that might not be spotted otherwise. Instill paving crews with a sense of ownership in their machines, Holland offered, to increase the likelihood of regular maintenance and cleanliness being kept top of mind. “That works out to the advantage of everyone, that feeling of ‘this is my roller’ or ‘this is my paver’ – they tend to take better care of

With a lot of asphalt standing in front of you, you want to make sure that things are running the way they should, and if there are any issues, you are immediately able to spot or predict it – and when it happens, prevent it. Vijay Palanisamy Director – Product Marketing and Communications, Dynapac something that they feel is assigned to them.” Finally, working with knowledgeable local dealers can make a big difference, both in experience and to ensure that inventory of key parts is ready to go. Laing said a good relationship with the dealer will mean they have the right tools ready when necessary. “The supporting dealer should know what type of machine you have and keep the necessary parts available,” he said. Make use of programs like the free inspections that Dynapac provides, Palanisamy advised. “Our technician will come to your place and inspect the machines, or you can drop the machine off in our dealer’s yard. They will inspect the machine and tell you what’s going on,” he said. “Take the winter time to go through the machine fully, and take advantage of these inspection programs.” HEG

JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

EARTHMOVING

DIVERSE INDUSTRIES DRIVE GROWTH F SANY AND HEADWATER EQUIPMENT BY LEE TOOP, EDITOR

he part of Canada that stretches from eastern British Columbia to western Saskatchewan can certainly be described as diverse when it comes to industry. From the coal mines of the Kootenays to Alberta’s oil patch and Saskatchewan’s agricultural heartland, there are plenty of different sectors at work. That kind of area can be a challenge for any equipment dealer to manage and support, but that’s just what Headwater Equipment does. With five locations across the three provinces, the family-run business has evolved from a used equipment operation into a broad-based sales and service business that handles the needs of each industry efficiently. In the process, it is helping spread the word about some brands that might not be household names in Canada, but which are proving to be popular with customers in the Headwater region.

USED EQUIPMENT SALES START THE BUSINESS

Founder Mike Stringer got his start as a heavy-duty mechanic and ran his own construction company focused on roadbuilding and oilfield work for years before starting Headwater in 1997 from a single location in Coalhurst, Alberta, outside Lethbridge. His son Matt started with the company a year later, and recalls that the focus for years was on sales of used equipment. “My dad’s background was as a heavy equipment technician

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

We wanted to be a reseller of good used equipment, so we focused on repairing, servicing, and painting everything we sold. Matt Stringer General Manager, Headwater Equipment and mechanic, and he had always flipped machines in his construction days . . . we started the equipment sales and started selling used construction equipment. We had a pretty big shop and a few mechanics from the construction days, so we were going to auction sales and contractors, buying used equipment, fixing it up, and reselling it,” described Matt Stringer, today the general manager at Headwater Equipment. “We wanted to be a reseller of good used equipment, so we focused on repairing, servicing and painting everything we sold.” That could sometimes be a challenge – sometimes even the best service work might not quite pan out when it comes to older equipment, Stringer said. The company developed a reputa-

H FOR SERVICE AND SUPPORT FOR BRANDS OF ALL KINDS IS A BIG PART OF HEADWATER’S WORK.

tion for quick response if machines it sold had problems. Service was a theme that ran through the business during those years, Stringer pointed out, as Headwater started to provide service contracts with various operations in the region. With coal mining giant Teck on board as well as other large clients, the Headwater service team was travelling to Sparwood, B.C., northern Saskatchewan and Manitoba, and elsewhere handling field service work.

NEW MARKETS SPARK ADDED LOCATIONS

That sparked the start of steady growth for the company as it moved into new markets closer to its large customers, Stringer said. “Sparwood was the first branch we opened after Coalhurst, and that was borne out of how much work we were doing for the coal mines in the Sparwood valley – we needed a place to park service trucks and work on a lot of small items that needed to be repaired off the mine sites,” he related. From there, as it transitioned into new equipment sales, Headwater Equipment grew northward, aiming for the big equipment market in northern Alberta with a location in Edmonton. “Contractors Edmonton north, when you tell them you’re from Lethbridge, you’re too far south – they can’t get a crack at a lot of those deals. So, once we were up in Edmonton, it

opened a large part of the north of the province for our service trucks,” Stringer said. “And, on the sales side, now we have the machines parked right there for people to see. A busy contractor doesn’t want to drive from Edmonton down to south of Calgary to look at a piece of machinery.” Headwater’s Calgary location provides the same kind of convenience to contractors in that market, with machines on display and several field mechanics covering the area. The most recent addition is a location in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, which was added in late 2021. “We’re looking to expand our Saskatoon operations this year; we’re renting space now, and we’re going to get a proper building and shop going this year, hopefully, and all of our Saskatchewan activities will be based out of there,” Stringer said.

SANY STARTS NEW EQUIPMENT SALES DRIVE

As Headwater Equipment grew, it also began to move away from the used equipment model into new sales. It found an eager partner in that development with Sany, one of the more recent equipment brands to enter Canada. Headwater became one of Sany’s early dealer partners when they came on board in 2015. The company was on the lookout for something new as other used equipment sources, both in-person and online, began to expand, Stringer said. JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

EARTHMOVING

REBUILDS LIKE THIS CAT 24 HAVE BECOME PART OF HEADWATER’S SERVICE OFFERINGS.

“We came across Sany at CONEXPO one year, started a conversation with them, and then did some digging in on the machinery, how it was built, the warranty, and so forth,” he said. At the time, there were a couple of other Canadian companies selling Sany equipment, but it was still relatively unknown. That led to a learning curve, both for Headwater and its customers. Stringer said the dealership sent some of its skilled mechanics into the field with Sany machines to gather feedback from clients, and in the process identified things that could be improved for better customer support. Those details were sent back to Sany, which took them into consideration as new machines were built. “Sometimes it’s simple things, like the seat on some models needing to be upgraded to be a little bigger because body sizes are a little bigger than Chinese body sizes. Or something silly like, the wheel loader at first didn’t have a cup holder in it,” Stringer said. “There have been a lot of small changes, and some mechanical changes we’ve suggested as well. Sany’s been really good to work with on taking customer feedback to make the product better for the North American market.”

There have been a lot of small changes, and some mechanical changes we’ve suggested as well. Sany’s been really good to work with on taking customer feedback to make the product better for the North American market. Matt Stringer

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

It takes time to establish new brands in the construction industry, and it was no different for Sany; Headwater’s team spent quite a lot of time educating its customers. They placed machines with clients through rentals, offered deals, and started getting buy-in locally, Stringer said, which has led to positive results. “Once you get a couple of the locals to buy in, other people see it and say ‘oh, it’s good enough for them, it should be good enough for us,’” he said. “Last year was the first year where we really saw that build with guys coming back for more. We have one guy now with five or six Sany machines.” That development has also benefitted from recent supply chain issues as well as overall cost benefit compared to other products. Headwater had the foresight to stock up on Sany machines, and with that inventory available, combined with a growing awareness of the brand in the region, 2021 turned into the busiest year yet. “We have that critical mass of customers and machines in the field where we can show people that we have machines out there with 7,000 hours on them and they’re not giving us any problems,” he said. “We’ve proved that they are a quality machine, and people are buying into that.”

ROKBAK ADTS AND ATTACHMENTS ROUND OUT OFFERINGS

Along with Sany, Headwater Equipment also represents Rokbak – formerly Terex Trucks – and its line of articulated dump trucks. That built out of the Sany arrangement as well as the needs of the region, Stringer suggested. “Sany doesn’t have a rock truck . . . looking at the brands that might be available, Terex was one that didn’t have any representation in Alberta,” he said. “We had a good machine in the Sany 500 that can load rock trucks, so we thought this would be a good match to have a more complete lineup of equipment to offer.” The ADT market is unique in that it is often a rental demand more than sales, so there is some work to do entering that market, Stringer said. Since the acquisition of Terex Trucks by Volvo and the rebrand to Rokbak, the machines have been drawing interest from rental fleets and other buyers as their quality and productivity become more established.

Beyond the heavy construction equipment, Headwater Equipment also provides attachments of all kinds, with brands including Indeco, HW Attachments, and HLA Attachments available.

SERVICE AT THE FOREFRONT

With its history of field service, it’s no surprise that Headwater Equipment continues to focus on that aspect of the business today. Stringer said construction customers need to know their machines will be available all the time, and Headwater shapes its service offering to ensure that happens. “The big thing is hiring good technicians. We’ve got a training program here for apprentices. Our industry has got a severe shortage of good heavy-duty mechanics these days,” Stringer noted. “We run a fleet of Kenworth and Freightliner service trucks – that’s the backbone of our service fleet, big service trucks and quality guys. Plus, being a smaller operation, we have a lot of people come and say we still have a kind of family feel to it. We try to make sure all our mechanics know that you’re not a number, you’re a valued employee, because without good mechanics, nothing works.” Extending the lifespan of equipment is also key, and the Coalhurst shop handles frame-up rebuilds on a variety of machines, Stringer said, which is another way in which Headwater draws good team members who get the opportunity to work on machines of all brands and ages. “A diverse mix of work for the guys makes retention a little easier for us,” he added. The rebuild business has been growing, especially in the past year, with pricing going up and lead times for new machines growing, Stringer said. “We’re seeing a lot more rebuilds coming our way, just with the way the market is. And, rebuilds have their own challenges right now; engine components are harder to get,” he noted.

well as establishing the Saskatchewan presence, along with more development of Sany in the market. “We’re looking to take the Sany brand to be one of the top five construction brands here . . . we have the telehandler that came out last year, and the motor grader as well, so they’re reaching a fairly complete product offering in North America. That’s our big growth

plan – pushing the Sany equipment out there, and breaking into more of the municipalities here in Alberta,” he said. “We also want to continue growing our service side, because the service and the new equipment really go hand in hand. We’re trying to make sure we draw new customers and keep them happy with prompt service and uptime on their machines.” HEG

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GROWTH TO CONTINUE MOVING FORWARD

With the growing interest in Sany equipment, Headwater Equipment is poised to continue its steady expansion into new markets throughout its coverage areas, Stringer said. Hopes are to place a location in the Grande Prairie area, as

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JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

EARTHMOVING

IN WITH THE NEW HITACHI

HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY AMERICAS IS BUILDING EQUIPMENT AND A COMPANY CULTURE BY ARTURO SANTIAGO, EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

itachi Construction Machinery Americas (HCMA) began a new era when it recently unveiled the first three Hitachi-built excavators on a hot, muggy day in Pine Mountain, Georgia. The introduction of the ZX210LC-6 HP excavator and the ZX26U-5N and ZX50U-5N mini excavators, all bearing the Hitachi brand, is the first of many steps HCMA is taking after ending its sales and marketing agreement with John Deere Construction & Forestry last summer. “We call it almost a baby step because there are many steps still left to go,” says HCMA Vice President of Sales Simon Wilson. “For us, it’s just a cool time to now be able to talk about these products and really show that we have configured them to what the customers have told us they want. We want to be able to show them that we’ve listened and did what we said we were going to do when we met with them not long ago.” More product offerings are also on the horizon – several new mining products are in the stable and ready for release, including

ZX50U-5N COMPACT EXCAVATOR

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

larger shovels and haul trucks. Leading up to this new chapter, in 1988 Hitachi and John Deere started the Deere-Hitachi manufacturing joint venture to produce excavators in Kernersville, North Carolina, that were sold under both the Hitachi and Deere brands. The two companies combined their marketing and distribution efforts in the Americas in 2001. This lasted until 2021 when it was announced that this marketing and distribution agreement would be dissolved in March 2022. Moving forward, Hitachi and Deere will enter into new licensing and supply agreements, which will enable Deere to continue to source, manufacture, and distribute the current lineup of Deere-branded excavators in the Americas. Also as a result of this agreement, there were three Hitachi-Deere joint-venture factories in Kernersville, North Carolina; Indaiatuba, Brazil; and Langley, British Columbia, that Deere acquired and from which it will produce its own excavator lines. This leaves Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas with control of its own products and services, business strategies, and developing technologies, using a revamped distribution network. HCMA is currently in the process of converting its manufacturing facility in Newnan, Georgia, into a new regional headquarters that will support corporate offices for Latin America and North America as well as a customer centre and training and learning centre for end-use customers and dealerships. The headquarters will be approximately half a million square feet under one roof. Wilson adds, “When a customer or somebody comes and visits, they’ll really see the power of Hitachi and, as a regional headquarters, it’s important for us to have that central destination for the Western hemisphere.” From this point on, all Hitachi products will be sourced from Japan. Manufacturing facilities that have supplied components, kits, or complete machines will now support HCMA in the Americas. That may not be a permanent arrangement as Hitachi continues to evaluate what it determines what the “correct”

ZX26U-5N COMPACT EXCAVATOR

manufacturing footprint would be globally, and in the Americas. According to Wilson, the ability to bring in product directly from Japan is working out well, so far, despite global supply chain issues. He says, “To have a finished product in a very tight supply chain within Japan has enabled us to bring those products to each of the ports and closer to the end customer. And because of some of the inland transportation costs and blockages and shortages of truck drivers, being able to bring that product right to that customer has been able to save them some money and save some of the cost and time that we’re all facing now with supply chains.”

When a customer or somebody comes and visits, they’ll really see the power of Hitachi. Simon Wilson Vice President of Sales, Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Hitachi is passionately intense about being able to have control of its own destiny and creating its own methods for connecting with customers. The autonomy will allow the company to react quickly to the needs and suggestions of end users and implement solutions. Wilson stressed the importance of establishing a strong presence in the Americas not only for HCMA’s success, but also for the global success of Hitachi Construction Machinery considering that the combined Latin and North American market is the largest in the world.

ZX210LC-6 HP EXCAVATOR

While Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas is putting considerable time, effort, and money into new products, a massive headquarters, and customer relations, it is also expanding its workforce. More than 3,000 people applied for 150 positions. And bringing in personnel has not been a matter of simply hiring professionals with the most experience. New hires had to fit in with employees who have been with the company, in some cases, for 25 to 30 years. HCMA’s goal is to build upon the foundation of its work culture that is marked with an emphasis on listening, teamwork, and an ability to connect with customers. It is hiring people who are not necessarily focused on the financial success of the company, or the percent of market share the company can achieve. Instead, the desire is for those who look to build the best business relationships. Wilson says, “It was the key focus. And if we think that we did anything really well, we’ve executed in that area. The team is phenomenal that I get the pleasure of working with on a daily basis. It’s a lot of fun and it’s really exciting to see where we can take it.” With the introduction of the ZX26U-5N and ZX50U-5N mini excavators and the ZX210LC-6 HP excavator, HCMA is certainly putting its best foot forward with this first move that begins its new chapter. The mini excavators are expected to make their mark with their easily replaceable flat glass on the cab, simple and durable design, and easy to use controls. HCMA director of product management and engineering Rob Orlowski calls the ZX210LC-6 HP excavator “The Beast,” pointing out the heavy boom and counterweight as well as the hydraulic system that yields not only more lifting capacity, but also more delicate arm and bucket maneuvering. While these three pieces of equipment are worthy of marking HCMA’s debut, company leadership says stay tuned for much more. Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas is, one could say, moving mountains to reach its desired goals for both its immediate and long-term futures. HEG JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

COMPACT EQUIPMENT

DX35Z-7

DX50Z-7

DOOSAN RELAUNCHES MINI EXCAVATOR LINE EIGHT ALL-NEW MODELS FOR NORTH AMERICA BY KAITLYN TILL, EDITOR IN CHIEF

n 2022, Doosan Infracore North America is relaunching its entire mini excavator line with eight all-new -7 Series models ranging from 2.7 to 9 tonnes, including reduced and zero-tail-swing models. All eight models will be available by the end of the year. Features across the line include a fully enclosed cab as standard, standard auxiliary

Infracore North America. The machines in the new lineup look like little brothers to the big machines now. The standard fully enclosed cab has been designed to optimize operator comfort with standard heat and air conditioning – even on the smallest 2.7-tonne model. Americano says that Doosan’s approach is to offer the cab as standard

Common interface controls will be available from the 2.7-tonne model all the way up to the biggest Doosan excavators. hydraulics, two arm configuration options to choose from for some models, and an updated operator experience and aesthetic design that provides a consistency with the rest of Doosan’s lineup of large earthmoving equipment. Design lines and the way the counterweight is incorporated into each machine will feel familiar, says Steve Americano, mini excavator product specialist, with Doosan

because that’s what their customers are looking for. This is particularly relevant for owner/operator businesses – they will appreciate that machines with a cab are easier to maintain and keep clean. However, customers can opt out and order a model with a canopy, which Americano expects to be more popular with the rental industry. Common interface controls will be available from the

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

2.7-tonne model all the way up to the biggest Doosan excavators. Similar joysticks, cabin style, switch interface on the consoles, and similar software on the in-cab monitor, will all be familiar for operators who move between machines. The in-cab monitor enables operators to tailor attachment performance to their preference depending on conditions and materials. Most models of the new lineup are available with two different arm configurations. Americano says that the standard arm is ideal for traditional, everyday work. The long arm option is ideal for job sites where it is more difficult to reposition the machine, as it provides additional dig depth and reach. Another option that purchasers can select is a rearview camera, which Americano particularly recommends for customers who work in congested areas. Doosan is offering auxiliary hydraulics as standard on these machines, as well as hydraulic quick coupler piping, enabling use of a hydraulic

quick coupler attachment. A second set of auxiliary hydraulics is available for customers who will outfit their machines with multifunction attachments, such as a tiltrotator. While steel tracks are not commonly found on mini excavators, these new Doosan machines are also designed to accommodate steel tracks all the way down to the 2.7-tonne model. As for technology, DoosanCONNECT telematics is now standard on the new -7 mini excavators. DoosanCONNECT provides operators and fleet managers with the ability to review maintenance history and codes on the machines. They can also now receive alerts, just like with Doosan’s larger equipment. Models that will be available by the end of 2022 include: 6,168-pound DX27Z-7, 8,807 pound DX35Z-7, 10,114-pound DX425K, 12,121-pound DX50Z-7, 12,644-pound DX55R-7, 13,779-pound DX62R-3, 13,779-pound DX63-3, and the 18,960-pound DX85R-3. HEG

CATERPILLAR 908 WHEEL LOADER

CATERPILLAR

COMPACT WHEEL LOADERS WITH RE-ENGINEERED CAB AND UPGRADED POWERTRAIN

uilding off the Cat M-Series compact wheel loaders, Cat’s new next-generation Cat 906, 907, and 908 wheel loaders have a re-engineered cab. Featuring the new Cat C2.8 engine, an upgraded drive and powertrain deliver faster roading speeds and drivetrain performance. Hydraulics and structures have also gone through an overhaul. The new sealed and pressurized cab improves the operator experience while retaining raised floor pedals and two doors to make cleaning the cab easier. Visibility features include larger standard side mirrors, optional electric and heated mirrors, and front and rear camera options. New single-piece front and rear windshields offer 60 percent better wiper coverage. Seat-mounted controls improve operating ergonomics; a multi-function joystick controls travel direction and speed, proportional auxiliary flow, differential lock, and constant hydraulic flow without operators removing their hand from the joystick. A range of seat options are available, including a new heated and ventilated seat. New in-cab-programmable kickouts with high-definition rotary sensors mounted to the loader arms better protect operators from unwanted shock and vibration due to buckets striking the ground and/or hitting dump stops at max height. Proper kickout operation also saves up to 20 percent of bucket cutting edge life. Rather than leaving the cab for setting, the operator remains inside the cab while setting upper, lower, and attachment kickout positions at the touch of a button. Cylinder snubbing is also enabled to provide the operator with added protection. The Next Generation control monitor offers a range of realtime machine operating information. It allows the operator to configure hydrostatic transmission response, auto engine idle shutdown, and a utility powertrain mode that provides operators

with a more intuitive means of controlling ground and engine speed – ideal when working with hydromechanical attachments. The new Cat C2.8 engine delivers the same 55.7-kW (74-hp) gross power as the previous engine with 13 percent more torque, resulting in roading performance and tractive effort improvements. The Cat C2.8 engine meets Tier 4 Final emission standards. Its shift-on-the-go transmission offers increased roading speeds of 40 km/h (25 mph). Larger fuel tank capacities of 30 percent for the 906 and 12 percent for the 907 and 908 help deliver extended work cycles. When working in dusty environments, the new reversing-fan option assists in keeping cooling cores clean for temperature control. The system can be turned off, set to operate in an automatic mode or momentarily activated by the operator. Automatic mode uses the factory setting to reverse direction for 10 seconds every 10 minutes. The frequency and duration of automatic reversing can be changed by the operator via the new control monitor. These Next Generation wheel loaders feature a new standard pressure compensated valve, allowing operators to simultaneously control implements and operate hydromechanical attachments. Increased working auxiliary pressures make work easier and improve steering. Modifications to the optional skid-steer coupler improve visibility through the coupler when setting fork tines. In conjunction, the realignment of the compact wheel loader fork carriage improves forward visibility. Bucket capacities have been increased across the range. An optional Cat 908 high-lift configuration is available and high-illumination LED light options are now available for both working/roading and under-hood-service lights to better illuminate work areas in low-light conditions. JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

COMPACT EQUIPMENT

THE TOPCON MC-MOBILE PLATFORM IS MACHINE CONTROL AND MORE FOR COMPACT EQUIPMENT.

BIG TECH FOR COMPACT EQUIPMENT TOPCON’S MC-MOBILE PLATFORM PROVIDES OPERATORS WITH A COMBINATION OF TECHNOLOGIES BY ARTURO SANTIAGO, EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

he sheer number of compact machines in use at job sites large and small far exceed that of full-sized equipment. Yet, the availability of machine control technology for mini-excavators, compact track loaders (CTLs), and skid steers is nearly nonexistent. Also, the price of a machine control system for fullsized iron can cost as much as a piece of compact equipment. Topcon Positioning Group has addressed these issues by creating MC-Mobile, a combination of machine control and survey technologies that allows compact equipment operators to lay out, grade, and check jobs with the same system. The platform’s displays and other components are designed to be shared across numerous machines and can be moved from a grade checking/layout rover pole to a compact machine, and back. Mark Jones, Topcon senior manager of business development for MC-Mobile, recently demonstrated the portable machine control solution for Heavy Equipment Guide. Jones explained that the technology employs a tablet that is used in multiple functions. Layout is accomplished with an LN-150 Layout Navigator as an elevation reference. Its laser then tracks a prism (attached to the tablet) that is set up on a known control point. The tablet acts as a data collector and completes the layout. The tablet can then take the layout data and be used as a design tool to create desired elevations and grades. Finally, the tablet is mounted inside the compact equipment and is used for machine control to execute the design.

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

This is the technology they’ve been waiting for. The price point is not a hard one to swallow. And the flexibility of doing all these things, they’re going to control their material, they’re not going to have too much material or more than they bid for. Mark Jones Senior Manager of Business Development for MC-Mobile, Topcon At the end of the day, the tablet can be reattached to the prism to verify the work has been completed as designed and an invoice can be generated. Jones calls it an advantage for an entrepreneur that’s in the dirt business adding, “This is

the technology they’ve been waiting for. The price point is not a hard one to swallow. And the flexibility of doing all these things, they’re going to control their material, they’re not going to have too much material or more than they bid for. They’re not going to have a third party cost with a surveyor coming in to charge them $150 an hour to do layout because they don’t have a complex design. They just need to do simple tasks. There’s certainly a time and place for all survey instruments, but a dirt guy doesn’t need that. He can do this himself.” The MC-Mobile tablet can be moved around to different machines in a compact equipment fleet. Inertial sensors are attached to the compact equipment along with an MC-X1 controller and removable 3D positioning technology. It all communicates with the Android tablet. Topcon says the platform can also perform and/or assist with tasks such as site surveying, bidding, volume calculation, design on the fly, inspection, and validation. It can be used for small earthmoving/contracting, landscaping jobs, and indoor or underground earthmoving projects. Jones calls the technology affordable and easy to use and the return on investment is easy to calculate. He explains that it can help manage material, it can increase production, and it can help unskilled or inexperienced operators improve their performance. “It’s an umbrella tool. I’m going to use this tablet in so many different functions. I’m going to measure, I’m going to design, and I’m going to execute. And at the end, I’m going to capture it all. I’m completely safe because I did what I said I would do. It just makes sense for working in small spaces.” HEG

THE MC-MOBILE TECHNOLOGY CAN BE USED BY SKILLED AND UNSKILLED OPERATORS.

THE MC-MOBILE PLATFORM CAN ALSO BE USED TO GENERATE INVOICES.

JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

CRANES

UPDATES AND INNOVATION TAKE MOBILE CRANES TO NEW HEIGHTS PAIR OF NEW ROUGHTERRAIN CRANES ADD CAPACITY TO GROVE ROUGH-TERRAIN LINE

The start of 2022 has brought new additions to the Grove rough-terrain crane line, with two new models broadening the company’s offerings in this busy sector. With trends aiming rough-terrain models towards higher capacities and longer booms, buyers are looking for cranes with 80-ton capacity and more, and the GRT8129 and GRT9165 both fit the bill. These two cranes have been proven through reliability validation and life-cycle testing at the Manitowoc Product

Many of our customers wanted to fill a void in the 120-ton class, and also increase their crane utilization with easier transportability, greater reach and capacity, and improved access for serviceability. John Bair Product Manager, RoughTerrain Cranes, Grove

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

Verification Center, and both feature long boom and strong load charts along with intuitive and simple operating systems. The Grove GRT8120 features what the manufacturer states is the longest boom and strongest load charts in its class, along with a new compact carrier design with flat decking for improved maneuverability, serviceability and job site access. Combined, these features make the crane ideal for work in the petrochemical, construction, and wind power industries, among others. Based largely off the success of the GRT8100, the GRT8120 has a capacity of 120 US tons (120 tonnes) and a 197-foot (60-m) main boom with a 265-foot (80.8-m) max height when equipped with the 57.6foot (17.6-m) bi-fold swingaway extension that comes in either manual or hydraulically offsettable configurations. Also new to the GRT8120 is the MAXbase asymmetrical outrigger system for ultimate versatility in job site set-ups. This feature, combined with the lightweight, compact carrier and long boom, make this crane ideal for congested job sites that require maximum reach. A new, wider, full-vision cab with 20-degree tilt maximizes operator comfort and visibility. From an operational perspective, the GRT8120 features the Boom Configurator mode that simplifies telescoping of the boom and provides onboard lift planning. “Many of our customers wanted to fill a void in the 120-ton class, and also increase their crane utilization with easier transportability, greater reach and capacity, and improved access for serviceability,” said John Bair, Grove’s product manager for rough-terrain cranes. “We were able to accomplish this through an all-new carrier design along with several other new features debuting on this crane.”

The crane has a full LED lighting package with new side-mounted carrier work lights, and the design improves upon previous crane models with increased storage and improved accessibility for servicing. Compact dimensions and lightweight gross vehicle weight will mean the crane is easy to transport, needs minimal job site preparation and provides exceptional maneuverability. On the job site, it has a 15 mph (24.1 km/h) travel speed with full counterweight. “For the GRT8120 we were also able to add smart sensing outrigger cylinders in lieu of string pots that, along with nearly every component on the crane, were tested well past industry standards at our Product Verification Center to ensure reliability on the job site,” Bair said. “We’ve also added a wireless, handheld rigging remote for quick and easy set-up on site. And of course, this crane is outfitted with the CCS Crane Control System that improves efficiency and reduces training time.”

NEW POWER UNIT ADDS DIESEL OR ELECTRIC OPTION TO LIEBHERR MOBILE CRANE

Liebherr’s LTC 1050-3.1 mobile crane can now be equipped with an electric power unit which allows the machine to operate on either diesel or electric power. The new alternative LTC 1050-3.1 features a conventional low-emission internal combustion engine that complies with Stage V emissions standards and generates 326 bhp (243 kW) of power. It can be fuelled with hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO) with no restrictions, allowing it to cut CO2 emissions by up to 90 percent compared to fuelling with diesel. To run electrically, the crane can be equipped with Liebherr’s new power unit, which allows the crane to operate with nearly the same performance as a six-cylinder engine. The electric motor uses the existing hydraulic pump, mount-

ed directly on the powershift transmission on the conventional LTC 1050-3.1, to transfer power to the consumers in the crane superstructure. The electric motor and a distributor gear, along with the required control equipment, must be added to the conventional LTC 1050-3.1 model to equip it for electric use. A site current of 125 A is required to achieve full performance, but the unit can also operate on a 63 A supply. Alternatively, the crane can operate using an external conventional battery pack if the site does not have electrical infrastructure. Liebherr supplies the electric model of the LTC 1050-3.1 for the version with a 36-m TELEMATIK telescopic boom. The RemoteDrive option for remote-control driving and a height-adjustable elevating cab are also available for the new crane. Liebherr is currently putting the electric power unit prototype through intensive testing and is targeting delivery of the first models in 2023.

GROVE HAS INTRODUCED TWO NEW ROUGH-TERRAIN MACHINES, INCLUDING THE GRT9165.

The GRT9165 has the longest reach and highest capacity of any model in Grove’s rough-terrain lineup along with a variety of features to improve efficiency. A 165 US ton (150 tonne) crane, the GRT9165 has a 205-foot (62.5 m) six-section pinned boom, and is designed for easy transport with an overall transport height of 12.4 feet (3.7 m). Four steering modes increase maneuverability and facilitate crane positioning. Grove’s new wider, full-vision cab maximizes the operator’s comfort and visibility. The new cab also features a standard three-camera package for additional awareness on the job site as well as the ability to tilt the cab up to 20 degrees. The GRT9165 offers a 205-foot (62.5 m) six-section MEGAFORM boom with a TWINLOCK pinning system. A manual or hydraulic bifold swingaway jib with offsets of up to 50 degrees improves reach over obstacles and increases job site versatility.

A NEW POWER UNIT CONVERTS THE LTC 1050-3.1 MOBILE CRANE TO ELECTRICAL POWER.

JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

MACHINE CONTROL

COMPREHENSIVE MACHINE CONTROL OPTIONS ADD EFFICIENCY FOR ASPHALT OPERATIONS BY LEE TOOP, EDITOR

hether a repair job or a brand-new installation, road construction today requires precision and efficiency. Agencies have tight tolerances that must be met by contractors, and traditional ways of ensuring designs are correct and asphalt is properly compacted are being left behind. Machine control has expanded into the road construction sector, and its use is becoming more popular all the time as contractors recognize its benefits. For Trimble, that has meant development of machine control tools for a range of asphalt paving products, all providing owners and operators with new opportunities to ensure their mats have the highest quality possible. With the recent launch of Roadworks for Asphalt Compactors, Trimble now offers a broad selection of technologies, with continuing development expected. “Prior to that, we had Roadworks releases that supported 2D asphalt paving as well as 3D, but the most recent release introduced support for the new machine type,” explained Devin Laubhan, Trimble product manager for paving solutions. “The biggest move with this platform is that we are transitioning over to our Android-based user interface platform that has been out for years in the Earthworks tools. It incorporates new software, new hardware and is a refresh . . . to modernize the solution for asphalt compactors.” While road construction requires precision, it was, for quite some time, behind in the use of technology, using manual methods for measurement and tracking of the paving process in the field. Laubhan said the advent of technology has been driven by several factors. “We’re starting to see a lot of Department of Transportation specifications around the use of 3D technologies when it comes to roadbuilding – the DOTs want to make sure the contractors building their roads are providing a quality product, and they want to make sure those roads last,” he said. “3D technology can improve the building of a road from start to finish, or even a resurfacing project.”

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

EXPANDING MACHINE CONTROL IN PAVING

Those demands have been forcing contractors to pick up machine control to some extent, but as they do the extended benefits become obvious as well, Laubhan noted. “They realize what kind of value they get from not only seeing data in real time on the screen, but how they learn from that, collect data from the site, and do post-process analysis to understand their construction workflows a little better. It helps them be a better contractor.” Technology helps contractors do better, but also aids in retention of employees in an industry that is difficult to staff, said Trimble General Manager of Civil Specialty Solutions Kevin Garcia. “There is the very real issue of labour shortages North America–wide. The fact is that you don’t have quality operators like we did in the past – there have been a lot of retirees,” Garcia said. “When you’re trying to ensure a brand-new operator can still do a quality job and not cost you on the back end, on your warranty or something like that, these tools can enhance that and help operators do a better job even with little to no experience.” The current trajectory for Trimble’s Roadworks solutions is ensuring that 3D machine control is available across a range of paving equipment, both through OEM integration and aftermarket options. “There are a lot of OEMs who provide factory systems that can handle the 2D part – from there, our goal is to bolt a 3D

3D technology can improve the building of a road from start to finish, or even a resurfacing project. Devin Laubhan Product Manager for Paving Solutions, Trimble it doesn’t require as much user intervention at the screed,” he noted. “For the compaction side, you no longer have to guess how many times the roller has touched a specific section of the mix – did I roll over it four times, five times, or six times? You’ll know definitively, all the time.” The ability to collect and use data from paving equipment allows owners to improve efficiency and reduce overall costs. That makes it easier to get the job done right, every time. “Paving is known for being high stress because there isn’t a backup button – you can’t go ‘oh, that didn’t quite finish the way I wanted it to, let me back up and do it again,’” Garcia said. “That’s not an option in the paving world. I think 3D, when planned ahead of time and executed to the plan, allows for that.” HEG

TRIMBLE’S ROADWORKS MACHINE CONTROL FOR PAVERS AND COMPACTORS OFFERS EFFICIENCY BENEFITS TO USERS.

system on top of that and utilize the existing factory system,” Laubhan said. “We’re going to continue to move forward with additional OEM integrations for compaction . . . being able to interface with a machine ECM and get machine-specific information from the machine to Roadworks. Beyond that, we have product for milling solutions, thermal profiling, and concrete solutions that are on our road map.”

TECHNOLOGY MOVES TOWARDS MORE AUTONOMY

As the technology spreads, it is helping move paving equipment closer to the potential for autonomous operation – though true automation remains some distance off. “Paving is essentially a rolling conveyor line; the process is repeated over and over again: deliver asphalt, place asphalt, compact asphalt, and move on. It lends itself well to automating portions because it is so repetitive,” Garcia noted. “What we’ve done today is eliminate some of the operator tasks. We can’t eliminate the operator altogether, but if you’ve ever operated a paver or compactor, there’s a lot of things that you watch . . . the fewer things he has to focus on, the better a job he can do.” Roadworks can provide operators with the ability to manage truck movement and material in the auger box while the system keeps the machine steering straight and at the right speed, Garcia said, reducing operator input while improving precision. “We can ensure asphalt is being placed at the proper depth and JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

EQUIPMENT ROUNDUP

CRUSHING ROCK FOR ROAD FAE ATTACHMENT SOLUTION TAKES ROCK DOWN TO SIZE BY KAITLYN TILL, EDITOR IN CHIEF

kid-steer and compact track loaders excel at taking on a variety of tasks on job sites. FAE’s latest attachment for skid-steer and compact track loaders, the STC/SSL, enables compact loader owners to add rock crushing for road or trail base to their repertoire, simplifying a task that may otherwise require several other pieces of equipment.

CRUSH ROCK DOWN TO SIZE

The main application for this attachment is the crushing of loose rock that can be brought into the chamber and broken into smaller rock, ideal for road base. It can serve as an alternative to using a crusher bucket on an excavator or rock picker where the operator has to pick rocks up and handle them, or stack them and store them. It also eliminates the need for a hammer on the front of a skid steer to fracture rock since the STC/SSL can crush and grind it into smaller pieces. Fraction size is controlled by a hydraulically driven door and horizontal breaker bar inside the attachment. “We can usually feel confident down to a good 1-inch minus or 2-inch minus area,” says Lee Smith, product manager with FAE USA. From there the attachment can go up to a 3-inch or 3.5-inch size. “Those are the main sizes that we’re usually dealing with because the limit on the unit, as far as all day every day, is a six-inch rock. We’re able to take a six-inch rock and basically make it down to 1-inch minus rock.”

CRUSHING BY THE MILE

In a typical 8-hour work day, what can be accomplished will depend on the type of rock, but Smith says that in average conditions an operator can hit half a mile in an hour, potentially crushing a four-mile stretch in one day. If there’s a lot more rock the machine will have to go slower to process the material. “It’s really based on the type of material you’re grinding, how much you have, and what your final product needs are,” he says. “If you have to have a real fine product, sometimes you have to go a little slower so the machine can actually process the rock into what you’re looking for. Sometimes slow and steady wins because if you try to go faster than the machine can process the rock, you end up having to make

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

more passes, so usually a good slow, steady pace will be the best bet.”

HOW TO SPEC YOUR LOADER FOR THE ROCK CRUSHER ATTACHMENT

The main carrier features to consider when outfitting a compact track loader or skid-steer loader with this attachment are horsepower, hydraulic gallons per minute output, and hydraulic psi. Since the attachment is made to work subsoil, all of these features need to be spec’d high, says Smith. The higher the horsepower of the carrier, between 80 and 120 hp, the better the attachment will handle, he adds, and that goes for gpm and psi as well. “Gallons per minute is really where we get our rotor speed, but the pressure is where we get our power in the rotor, so the higher the gpms are, say, around the 40–45 range, and the pressure is to the 3,500–4,000 psi range, that’s where you’re really going to be in the sweet spot for this unit.”

HOW TO KEEP THE CRUSHER ATTACHMENT IN TOP WORKING ORDER

Maintaining the attachment is simple, Smith says. It’s a belt-driven unit, and there are two eight-hour grease zerks and a 40-hour grease zerk that need to be maintained. Belt tension should be checked once per week to ensure that it’s not too tight or too loose. Visual inspections are also recommended to check for worn teeth and to ensure the equipment is otherwise in working order. Teeth wear life will

THE ATTACHMENT IS A ONE-MACHINE SOLUTION FOR CRUSHING ROCK FOR TRAIL OR ROAD BASE. THE FAE STC/SSL ATTACHMENT CRUSHES ROCK DOWN TO 1-INCH MINUS.

depend on how abrasive the application is – a set of teeth will last anywhere from 250 to 500 hours.

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Adding specialty attachments for your compact loaders is a great way to maximize the use of and diversify the capability of your fleet. “This unit is one of the smallest, if not the smallest, professional grade rock crushers on the market, so it has really allowed us to fill a need in the industry for a unit that you can use with most likely a carrier you already own,” says Smith. “It just gives that contractor another tool in the box, if you will, to be able to go out and find jobs that normally would require multiple pieces of equipment – something to pick the rock, something to haul the rock, and situations like that. “So it’s really filled a need that’s not been met before . . . in areas where rocks are a real nuisance, it allows the guys to not have to deal with it.” HEG

G DU AS • ST DI & O ESE DO L • R C EL ON ECT TR RI OL C EQ UI PM EN T

ROCK CRUSHING ATTACHMENT EXPANDS VERSATILITY OF COMPACT CARRIERS

E RID

JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

EQUIPMENT ROUNDUP

ATTACHMENTS

FOR ROADBUILDING

MAZIO PAVER ATTACHMENT

BOBCAT COLD PLANERS

heavyequipmentguide.ca | JUNE 2022

CASE GRADER BLADE SHARPGRADE GRADER BLADE

4 1

The Mazio skid-steer loader mounted SKID paver is ideal for asphalt patching and paving of roads, pathways, bicycle tracks, parking lots, driveways, and utility trenches. It has a 1.5-cubic-yard (1.4-cubic-metre) hopper capacity, a paving width of up to 6.2 feet (1.9 m), and a paving speed of 82 feet (25 m) per minute. The unit works with hot or cold mix asphalt, paving asphalt thicknesses of 2 inches (5 cm) up to 10 inches (25 cm). Liquid propane gas heaters keep material heated to 284 degrees F (140 degrees C). The wide 108.25-inch (2,750 mm) hopper receives asphalt material directly from the haul truck, allowing for front or side loading, and automatically feeds to a 7.9-inch (200 mm) auger. The machine’s retractable hydraulic screed allows the operator to work around obstacles. It can be operated forward and backward from the cab or via a wireless remote control.

Bobcat offers four cold planer models to cut and mill concrete and asphalt. Bobcat says its planer attachments are much less expensive to maintain and are more maneuverable than dedicated planers. These planer attachments are versatile and durable, delivering high torque for maximum cutting and milling performance. A standard flow planer provides excellent performance on standard flow machines allowing a lower initial investment for those that only need to use a planer periodically. High flow planers utilize the increased hydraulic horsepower available for high production needs. The company offers multiple drum options to fit customers’ needs. Models include: Standard Flow – 14 inches, High Flow – 18 inches, High Flow – 24 inches, and High Flow – 40 inches.

The CASE precision grader blade for largeframe compact track loaders delivers the grading performance of a motor grader in a more compact and agile footprint. The blade is compatible with 2D and 3D machine control solutions to deliver improved productivity, quality, and efficiency in fine grading applications. It is compatible with laser receivers (single or dual), sonic tracers (single or dual), GNSS/ GPS (single or dual), and total stations – and the attachment itself is “plug and play” with the auxiliary hydraulics and 14-pin electrical connection of a large-frame CTL. It also features a 108-inch moldboard capable of jointly changing elevation and slope through dual lift cylinders, as well as achieving 60 degrees of combined blade rotation and 26 inches of combined blade side shift. Motion and action for the grader blade are controlled through the existing joysticks of the CTL – no additional controls are required.

SharpGrade’s G128 and G116 grade blades with hydraulic side wings cut, carry, or window material forward or backward with double-acting wings and a rear blade. The folding wing offers the material containment of a box blade. These heavy-duty wings can carry material in either direction. High-performance proportional valves are compatible with all skid-steer manufacturers’ hydraulic systems. These attachments feature a retractable front chassis for reduced transport length and require no grease – all linkages are sealed for life. The attachment offers the operator excellent visibility of the cutting edge via viewing windows on the adjustable height hitch plate. Blade width on the G116 is 2.1 m without side wings and 2.95 m with size wings; blade width on the G128 is 2.4 m without side wings and 3.25 m with side wings.

JUNE 2022 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

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Big advantages for your smaller machines Choosing a compact machine doesn’t mean that you have to compromise size over power. Our compact tiltrotators turn even your small machines into powerful do-it-all tool carriers for precision and capacity in small spaces. rototilt.com/tiltrotators

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BURNABY BLACKTOP BRINGS FAMILY FEEL TO B.C. ASPHALT PAVING SCENE

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WHY

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Visit trailking.com/solutions to learn more about all of the solutions we have to meet your hauling needs. 800-843-3324 | trailking.com

The Worldwide Leader in Concrete Paving Technology

www.gomaco.com x info@gomaco.com GOMACO offers the full range of concrete slipform pavers, curb and gutter machines, trimmers, placer/spreaders, texture/cure machines and bridge/canal finishing equipment. GOMACO equipment features our exclusive and proprietary G+® control system, created in-house by our software engineers from the wants and needs of contractors paving in the field. At the heart of GOMACO equipment is our passion for concrete and our commitment to our customers. We look forward to visiting with you about your upcoming paving projects and your concrete paving equipment needs. Our worldwide distributor network and our corporate team always stand ready to serve and assist you. CONCRETE STREETS AND HIGHWAYS x AIRPORT RUNWAYS x CURB AND GUTTER x SIDEWALKS RECREATIONAL TRAILS x SAFETY BARRIER x BRIDGE PARAPET x BRIDGE DECKS x IRRIGATION CANALS GOMACO CORPORATION IN IDA GROVE, IOWA, USA x 712-364-3347

Heavy Equipment Guide June 2022, Volume 37, Number 6

Articles inside

Big tech for compact equipment

Spotlight

News Room

In with the new Hitachi

From the Editor