Heavy Equipment Guide June 2023, Volume 38, Number 6

ELECTRIC REVOLUTION

BATTERY-POWERED EQUIPMENT GAINS GROUND IN CONSTRUCTION

CONNECT WITH US @HeavyEquipGuide

CORRECTION

In the May 2023 issue of Heavy Equipment Guide, we mistakenly published John Deere CTL operating weight specs in kilograms instead of pounds.

To view the issue with the corrected table, visit HeavyEquipmentGuide.ca/digital-edition.

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Kaitlyn Till ktill@baumpub.com

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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.

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FROM THE EDITOR

WHY INVEST IN ELECTRIC CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT?

There are a lot of reasons to adopt electric construction equipment, but there are also some reasons not to. The sticker price can be eye-watering, end-of-life battery disposal needs to be considered, and you need a charging solution in place at your job site – a charging solution that doesn’t rely on diesel generators. But there are also a lot of reasons to start using electric machines, or to plan to go electric in the future, now.

Alternative power and emissions reduction solutions need to be adopted by every industry, including construction, to address climate change. The way your equipment is powered ten years from now probably won’t be the same way it was powered ten years ago. Electric is just one emissions reduction solution –and it’s a great one for many construction applications.

An investment in electric equipment doesn’t necessarily mean heading to your dealer to finance a pricey new asset right away. The best way to get familiar with electric machines is through the rental market, and some types of electric machines, such as cranes, will always be used primarily through a rental channel. Many rental houses have formed partnerships with OEMs to carry electric machines, which have several benefits, including simplified maintenance, that suit the rental industry.

Having an electric machine in your fleet, or access to one through rental, opens up the opportunity to work in more applications, such as underground, indoors, and near hospitals and schools. In Canada, electric earthmoving machines have been used in underground mining, for indoor airport renovations, and even at the Toronto Zoo. Compact electric earthmoving equipment excels at interior demolition work, and electric earthmoving and lift equipment can work at night in urban areas without disturbing the community. All of these machines can help you meet environmental impact requirements when bidding for projects.

With the right planning for a purchase, the higher sticker price will eventually be offset by lower longer-term costs. Electric machines need less maintenance, there are fewer fluids to refill, and the hefty cost of diesel fuel is eliminated.

These machines also have clear benefits for operators. Quiet operation facilitates easier job site communication and less exposure to continuous high noise levels. Zero emissions benefits the health of job site workers and the communities that they work in. When we speak with OEMs, they emphasize that operators, who are sometimes skeptical to start, typically love an electric machine once they try it. An electric machine delivers instant power and it doesn’t idle.

You may not be ready to make that investment today, or tomorrow, but at some point an energy transition will be necessary. To learn more about electric equipment currently available on the market, machines coming soon, and the applications they are suited to, turn to “Electric Revolution” on page 16 in this issue.

Kaitlyn Till Editor In Chief

Having an electric machine in your fleet, or access to one through rental, opens up the opportunity to work in more applications.

The 350 P-Tier Excavator makes easy work of tough tasks with flexible grade-control features and fuel-efficient power.

More

Powerwise Plus™ tech delivers fuelefficient power when you need it, saving fuel by up to 7%*.

More Support

Backed by Brandt – the best-trained support team around, available 24/7/365 so you can keep working.

*Compared to the 350G model.

HELMETS TO HARDHATS CONNECTS AFGHAN REFUGEES WITH CAREERS IN CANADA’S SKILLED TRADES

As the Government of Canada works to resettle at least 40,000 Afghan refugees by the end of 2023, Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) is collaborating with Aman Lara and local building trades unions across Canada to provide recently resettled Afghan nationals with opportunities in the skilled trades.

For many Canadian newcomers, finding and securing well-paying, meaningful employment is a critical yet difficult step in their resettlement journey. That is why Helmets to Hardhats, a national non-profit organization typically dedicated to supporting transitioning military members and military family members into opportunities in the skilled trades, has expanded its program eligibility to include resettled Afghan nationals. Helmets to Hardhats believes that because of their sacrifices and support of the Canadian military, it is now the time to assist them. Helmets to Hardhats is easing the transition into Canadian society with career and apprenticeship opportunities in the unionized construction industry.

Helmets to Hardhats provides direct connections to ensure that Afghans interested in joining the skilled trades can break into the industry with little to no stress and no cost to the career seeker. The inclusion of Afghans into the Helmets to Hardhats program is aiding their successful transition into Canadian life by providing financial stability, earn-while-you-learn training opportunities, and access to health benefits and pension plans.

Helmets to Hardhats works directly with Canada’s 14 building trades unions to find careers for its clients in more than 60 different trades and occupations. Aman Lara is also supporting Helmets to Hardhats in connecting Afghan refugees to well-paying careers in the skilled trades. Currently, Helmets to Hardhats is working closely with Aman Lara, Carpenters’ Regional Council, and Canada’s Building Trades Unions (CBTU).

These organizations are filling critical labour shortages while providing sustainable employment and developing an inclusive skilled trades workforce. Over the last 18 months, many of the Local Unions of the Carpenters’ Regional Council have provided work opportunities for Afghan refugees and their family members since they arrived in Canada, including Local 27 and Local 675 in the GTA and Local 1946 in London, Ontario.

APPRENTICESHIP FUND THRIVES WITH $5 MILLION PAID TO B.C.’S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

The BC Construction Association (BCCA) has sent out $5 million in its Red Seal apprenticeship drive to construction companies in B.C. BCCA says that this is one of the most far-reaching Red Seal apprenticeship drives yet in the province.

The Muchalat Group of Companies, a Vancouver Island construction company, has registered four first-year apprentices through the program and received a total of $40,000 in financial incentives as a result. The fourth payment reached the $5 million milestone for BCCA.

“This is an easy program for employers to take advantage of, and I encourage any contractors who are getting ready to register first-year Red Seal apprentices to contact BCCA first,” says Tania Formosa, owner of The Muchalat Group of Companies. “If you don’t, you’re leaving money on the table, plain and simple. I don’t know any contractors who can afford to do that these days.”

The BCCA will pay employers $5,000 for each first-year apprentice registered in any of 39 construction Red Seal trades, and an additional $5,000 if the apprentice self-identifies as part of an equity-deserving group, with funding received from the Government of Canada Apprenticeship Service. BCCA, which launched its program in October 2022, has already sent payments to 469 employers who have registered a total of 692 apprentices in B.C. so far.

“We’re thrilled to reach the $5 million milestone and ready to send millions more to B.C. construction employers before the program ends March 31, 2024,” says Chris Atchison, BCCA president. “There are no strings attached to how the funding should be spent once it’s received, and we’re hearing from employers that the extra cash is very welcome right now.”

So far, the BCCA program has registered apprentices in 33 trades. The apprentices are from across B.C. and range in age from 16 and up and are 47.8 percent equity deserving groups. Adding diversity to B.C.’s construction industry, which is 96 percent male, is one of the goals of the program, but the funding is available to support all new apprentices regardless of demographics.

This opportunity is funded by the Government of Canada’s Apprenticeship Service, which has provided $21 million in funding to the BCCA to operate as an intermediary with employers.

THREE CANADIAN DEALERS AMONG DEVELON’S TOP NORTH AMERICAN PERFORMERS OF 2022

DEVELON has named three Canadian dealerships to its list of top-performing dealers of 2022. The three dealerships are GF Preston Sales and Service based in Sundridge, Ontario; Westerra Equipment based in Abbotsford, British Columbia; and Hartington Farm Services Limited based in Hartington, Ontario.

Each year DEVELON recognizes its top performing equipment dealerships. The manufacturer says that the named dealers have excelled in providing top-level performance in sales and parts and service to contractors in their respective markets.

Top-performing DEVELON dealers get to choose from a selection of several incentives that improve their profitability when selling and servicing DEVELON equipment.

“We are encouraged by our DEVELON dealers who are high performers year in and year out,” says Todd Roecker, vice president of growth initiatives at DEVELON. “We hope to carry this success onward as we continue to roll out our new brand through our dealer network in North America.”

FOCUS ON ELECTRIC EQUIPMENT

Turn to page 16 for an overview of electric equipment for applications in earthmoving, cranes and lift, and roadbuilding.

DONATION FROM ALLU FINLAND AIDS HALO TRUST’S UKRAINE DEMINING EFFORTS

ALLU Finland Oy has donated a DN 3-17 TS16mm bucket to the HALO Trust NGO for Ukraine demining operations. Demining is the process of removing land mines and other explosive remnants of war from fields, roads, and communities. Land mines are typically buried in the ground and can remain active for decades after a conflict has ended. Demining can be complex and dangerous, requiring specialized equipment and personnel with extensive training. Many organizations, like the HALO Trust, specialize in demining activities around the world.

7,615 ATTEND CANADA NORTH RESOURCES EXPO 2023

The Canada North Resources Expo has concluded its 2023 edition. The event took place at the CN Centre in Prince George, B.C., where over 7,615 visitors attended to network, negotiate deals, and see new innovations.

“The expo surpassed all expectations, with an amazing turnout of industry professionals and enthusiastic visitors,” says Mark Cusack, national show manager of the Canada North Resources Expo.

The Honour House – Tour of Honour attended the show to raise awareness and support for Canadian Armed Forces, Veterans, emergency services personnel, and their families.

YOKOHAMA COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF TRELLEBORG WHEEL SYSTEMS

The Yokohama Rubber Co. has completed its acquisition of Trelleborg Wheel Systems. As part of the acquisition, Trelleborg will officially be part of The Yokohama Rubber Co. and will operate under the name Yokohama TWS. As a new company, Yokohama TWS will operate with no change to its organizational structure.

WACKER NEUSON CELEBRATES 175TH ANNIVERSARY

acker Neuson has celebrated its 175th anniversary. Over 6,000 employees celebrated the anniversary, marking this milestone through a global call hosted from the company’s headquarters. Wacker Neuson was started by Johann Christian Wacker in 1848 when he set up a blacksmith shop in Dresden, Germany. In 1930, Hermann Wacker created the original electric rammer. This invention was followed by the development of the internal vibrator and then the first reversible plate. Since 1930, Wacker Neuson has updated its compaction products while also introducing new equipment lines like SSLs, CTLs, mini excavators, wheel loaders, dumpers, and telehandlers.

SPOTLIGHT

INTRODUCTIONS & UPDATES

Wacker Neuson

Interchangeable battery system for light compaction equipment

Wacker Neuson, BOMAG, Mikasa, Swepac, and Enarco will be offering mutually compatible, interchangeable batteries and chargers for construction equipment, with the batteries and chargers marketed under the Battery One brand. Wacker Neuson has been using the battery since 2014 and it now works with 11 different products. Since 2021, this battery has been used in BOMAG’s electrically powered rammers. To ensure instant recognizability among customers and users, these interoperable batteries and chargers are all marked with the Battery One branding.

Building upon Battery One, these manufacturers are collaborating to establish a standard for construction equipment batteries to simplify construction site workflows and logistics by eliminating the need to manage different battery and charging systems. The aim is to make the battery system available to more manufacturers in the construction sector.

Vermeer

Utility locator improves accuracy and connectivity

Vermeer’s new Verifier G3+ utility locator pairs with smartphones using the G3+ mobile app to plot location information including depth, current index, GPS data, utility type, device name, and the operator who performed the work. It can determine underground current direction against adjacent signals from other utilities, and it can detect ambient noise so the operator can switch to a different frequency for a particular job site.

Operators can adjust transmitter frequency and power outputs from up to 500 feet (152.4 metres) away using a wireless connection. Saved data is transferred via Bluetooth to the G3+ app. The data can also be uploaded to the Vermeer Projects bore planning tool.

It has three locating modes: peak, peak/null, and null. A water-resistant, one-size-fits-all coil clamp does not need to encircle a utility to induce a signal.

Interchangeable battery

Utility locator

Sullair’s new E1035H electric portable compressor provides the same reliability, durability, and performance as its diesel counterparts. It contains Sullair’s air end and solid-state starter; it delivers quiet operation, added safety features, and a lower total cost of ownership as compared to diesel compressors, according to Sullair.

The E1035H features swing-out coolers, a patent-pending design which gives users complete access to the coolers both front and back. Additionally, the E1035H features unique condensate management technology which helps eliminate the need for additional equipment to dispose of condensate. The EH1035H produces 1,035 cfm at 150 psi. It can be used indoors and wherever a 60Hz power source is available.

Short-tail-swing compact excavator

Takeuchi has expanded its TB300 Series excavator product line with its first short-tail-swing model in the 5-ton class – the TB350R. The machine has a rear swing overhang of just 2.95 inches and weighs 10,980 pounds in canopy configuration and 11,235 pounds when equipped with a cab. It is powered by a 41.7-hp Kubota V2607-CR-E5B diesel engine.

A four-pump hydraulic system delivers smooth control of the work equipment, and this excavator provides a bucket breakout force of 10,431 pounds, a traction force of 12,320 pounds, and a maximum dig depth of 11 feet 8.8 inches. Both canopy and cab configurations are equipped with a primary auxiliary circuit plumbed to mid-arm. The cab model also includes a dedicated coupler circuit operated by controls located inside the cab. The primary auxiliary circuit delivers 26.4 gpm at 2,990 psi.

John Deere Construction & Forestry

Small dozers

John Deere says its new 450, 550, and 650 P-Tier small dozer models offer precise hydraulics and smooth stability during operation. They feature the entry-level solution EZ Grade in base models with EH controls, as well as optional slope control and 2D laser capabilities. Owners can upgrade to Slope Control or SmartGrade technology in the future.

The new eight-inch touchscreen cab display offers intuitive navigation of slope control and machine settings on EH machines. These models have a 14 percent larger cab than previous models and offer increased storage space and easier ingress/egress. In addition, customers can now proportionally control the blade’s angle and change travel direction through the use of the integrated FNR switch. The new hood design, straightened and lowered on all models helps improve overall forward visibility.

Compact excavator

Air compressor

ELECTRIC REVOLUTION

BATTERY-POWERED EQUIPMENT GAINS GROUND IN CONSTRUCTION

BY KAITLYN TILL, EDITOR IN CHIEF

Tneed to meet environmental targets, and in some cases electric machines provide better performance than an equivalent diesel machine. With electric equipment introductions coming at us quickly over the past couple of years, it can be hard to keep track of what’s available, what’s coming soon, and what’s still in the prototype stage.

Let’s take a look at the machines, advantages of electric power, and key applications for electric equipment in the earthmoving, cranes and lift, and roadbuilding sectors.

EARTHMOVING

One of the biggest changes in the construction industry over the last few years is the range of electric earthmoving equipment options available. At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2020, electric-powered earthmoving equipment was an exciting new novelty – there was a smattering of introductions and prototypes on the show floor, and each machine was a significant announcement. Three years later, there was a battery-powered machine around every corner at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 –and it’s still a big deal for the industry.

Some benefits of electric power are obvious, while others are less so. Cleaner air and lower noise levels on the job site benefit everyone in the vicinity, but operators also experience instant torque, no idling, and no engine-associated maintenance checks. Operations must come up with a charging plan that doesn’t rely on a fossil-fuel source, but there are several options for compact equipment including connection to a standard household socket, fast charging, and solar-powered generators. Compact electric earthmoving equipment has been available, in some limited form, for many years now. Dual power micro excavators designed for indoor use, primarily demolition, were an early option. But, these small, sub-one-ton machines, while meeting the need for emissions-free operation, had to be powered via an umbilical connected to a generator, which made movement cumbersome.

One of the early players in the umbilical-free electric earthmoving equipment space, Green Machine, developed an exper-

tise in retrofitting small machines from several OEMs to meet niche customer demand. The company started with a bet on a medical campus. Jon M. Williams, the soon-to-be founder of Green Machine, was with the president of the campus and the president of a utility company. There was a diesel machine operating outside; it was noisy and they could see the emissions. If Williams could build a battery-powered machine to replace that diesel machine, the president of the utility would buy it.

Williams returned a proof-of-concept machine, showing that it could run on its lead–acid battery. Green Machine has since evolved its battery technology and has partnered with OEMs and end users to deliver a range of electric earthmoving solutions.

In the later 2010s, electric compact earthmoving equipment came to much greater attention via Mecalac’s E12 concept electric excavator and Volvo Construction Equipment’s Concept Lab initiative. Volvo publicly demonstrated the development of its first electric machines, a compact excavator and a compact wheel loader, leading up to the commercial unveiling of the ECR25 excavator and L25 wheel loader at bauma 2019.

Volvo has since announced that while it would continue to sell its diesel-powered models, the company would cease R&D focused on diesel-powered compact equipment and would focus exclusively on electric development in the smaller size classes.

JCB introduced its first electric compact excavator, the 19C-1E in 2019, and other manufacturers, including Bobcat, Takeuchi, and Wacker Neuson, have added machines to the electric mini and compact excavator market.

The types of electric machines now available, or close to production, have rapidly expanded – and there are plenty of applications where compact electric earthmoving equipment is now viable, including urban earthmoving applications in noise-sensitive areas, such as around hospitals; underground mining; parkland development; and in waste and recycling.

According to Takeuchi, indoor demolition remains one of the most important applications for electric compact excavators, which are ideal for the job when outfitted with a hydraulic breaker.

Electric equipment development has now expanded beyond compact excavators and wheel loaders. In 2020, CASE Construction Equipment ventured into new territory with the reveal of

BOBCAT E10E MINI EXCAVATOR

CASE CL36CV COMPACT WHEEL LOADER

its first all-electric backhoe loader, which was developed in conjunction with U.S. utilities providers. John Deere has since announced the development of its own electric backhoe loader, also in conjunction with utilities operations. With an electric backhoe loader, the operator can carry out emissions-free digging, lifting, and loading operations – and they can also drive, emissions-free, between job sites.

Bobcat, in partnership with Green Machine, has expanded the types of electric equipment on the market with the introduction of its all-electric compact track loader. On this CTL, Bobcat also partnered with Moog to power attachments via electric actuation and eliminated all of the machine’s hydraulics. The company commercialized the machine and introduced the first models via Sunbelt Rentals in 2022. At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023, Bobcat revealed its first prototype all-electric skid-steer loader, which the company says will be commercially available soon.

Other types of smaller equipment that are already suited to urban environments have been introduced in electric models in recent years, including site dumpers, stand-on track loaders, mini dumpsters, and compact loaders. AUSA, JCB, Avant Tecno, and Toro are just a few companies that offer these types of equipment and they are ideal for small construction jobs in hard-toaccess areas, as well as landscaping work.

Mecalac introduced a line of electric equipment in late 2022; the line includes a 12.5-ton excavator, a swing loader, and a site dumper. Mecalac’s goal is to provide what it calls “a complete electric ecosystem” for urban job sites. With these three machines, contractors can carry out entire jobs while producing zero emissions and very low noise levels.

There are several challenges to electrifying mid-size earthmoving equipment, including weight of the battery and the availability of a power source if the machine doesn’t stay on one job site. In specific applications, the benefits can outweigh the cost, and several manufacturers have started electrifying earthmoving machines in the 20-to-30-ton category, including Volvo with an excavator, Komatsu with an excavator, and LiuGong with a wheel loader. These machines are suited to job sites with easy access to charging and regular work cycles, such as transfer stations for the waste industry. Construction applications are currently more restricted in this size class. But,

according to LiuGong, quarrying applications where the wheel loader will be used long-term on a single site are ideal for setting up charging infrastructure.

LiuGong adds that end-users will need to consider the length of time they plan to invest in a mid-size electric machine, like its wheel loader. Over time, anticipated total cost of ownership is competitive with a diesel machine thanks to significant fuel savings, maintenance savings, and emissions reductions.

Municipal governments that are focused on meeting emissions targets and reducing urban pollution are also a market expected to lead the switch to electric power. At CONEXPO-CON/ AGG 2023 Gradall and Volvo Penta revealed an electric Gradall prototype aimed at that market. Typically a Gradall returns to the public works yard at the end of each day, which is ideal for charging overnight.

CRANES & LIFT

Electric equipment solutions are ideal for lifting applications, which often take place in urban environments or indoors.

One of the biggest innovations has come from Liebherr, which introduced the world’s first battery-powered crawler crane in 2020. The crane was based on the company’s Unplugged platform developed for battery-electric pile driving rigs. The crane can provide four hours of lifting on battery power and can also operate while plugged in. These cranes are built on the same platform as their diesel-powered counterparts.

Liebherr has said that interest in these models comes from companies who have developed health and safety and environmental plans that involve fossil fuel and noise emissions reduction, as well as cities around the world that have set strict environmental targets for heavy equipment emissions reduction. The first Unplugged crawler crane operated in Oslo, Norway, and Liebherr’s portfolio of Unplugged crawler cranes has now grown to four models ranging from 137- to 250-tonne maximum lift capacity.

Other manufacturers of electric crawler cranes include Sany and SENNEBOGEN. In 2022, Tadano announced that it plans to commercialize the world’s first electric rough-terrain crane.

Electric boom lifts have been on the market in some capacity for over 20 years. Lift equipment works indoors, close to build-

KOMATSU PC210E EXCAVATOR

LIUGONG 856H-E MAX WHEEL LOADER

FOCUS: ELECTRIC CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT

ings, and in dense urban areas – all ideal applications for electric power. Lift equipment manufacturers, including Genie, JLG, Manitou, and Snorkel offer electric boom lifts or scissors, as well as smaller battery-powered equipment.

Several manufacturers have more recently branched into offering electric telehandlers, including JCB, Manitou, Merlo, and Snorkel. Like electric boom lifts, electric telehandlers are ideal for noise sensitive applications in urban environments. At bauma 2022, Manitou introduced its first two all-electric rotating telehandlers, which can load up to six tons to a lift height of 22 and 26 metres. Manitou says that these machines can work in a range of climates, including cold weather, and the working range can be boosted with an additional battery.

ROADBUILDING

Electrification in roadbuilding is a relatively new development. There have been prototype machines demonstrated by manufacturers for over a decade, but commercial production of electric roadbuilding equipment has only happened very recently – most notably ramping up with the introduction of electric tandem rollers for small scale projects. Several manufacturers have quickly entered this space, including Volvo Construction Equipment, Hamm, BOMAG, Dynapac, and Ammann.

According to the Wirtgen Group, which manufactures Hamm’s line of electric rollers, the push for development of electric tandem rollers started in Scandinavia and other parts of Europe where contractors need equipment that can perform jobs in low-emissions zones. As with earthmoving equipment, the ideal application for an electric roller is in urban, noise-and-pollution-sensitive areas, such as near hospitals and schools, and for working at night in populated areas. Electric rollers also have reduced maintenance costs compared to diesel machines – the only fluids required are hydraulic oil and greasing at the articulation points. Another advantage is that electric machines don’t need to idle – which saves additional costs for contractors and

reduces the amount of power needed to work a full day.

Volvo says its electric rollers feature the same battery-power architecture as the company’s compact excavators and wheel loaders. But, Volvo adds that its electric roller has a performance advantage over diesel-powered models in high-altitude applications. It is not reliant on natural aspiration – where diesel performance will drop at higher elevations, the equivalent electric machine sees no performance change. And, to meet diesel engine emissions regulations, the diesel-equivalent machine has less available power than Volvo’s electric rollers.

Electric asphalt pavers are in very early development. Vögele now offers an electric mini paver for the European market, and other electric pavers have been tested in Europe. At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023, LeeBoy displayed the prototype electric paver that it developed in collaboration with General Motors and Powertrain Control Solutions. According to LeeBoy, advantages of an electric asphalt paver include reduced noise levels and no wasted energy while waiting for trucks or idling. Operators will otherwise be familiar with the performance and controls which are similar to the company’s diesel-powered pavers.

WHAT’S NEXT?

With more electric machines hitting the market in a range of product categories, from mini excavators up to mid-size earthmoving machines and crawler cranes, the opportunity to experience and understand the advantages and challenges of deploying electric equipment on your job site is growing – particularly as more of this equipment becomes available through rental. Electric isn’t the only option for job site emissions reduction, and there are some machines that won’t be suited to run on battery power. Other technologies will be needed to fill in the gaps. But, for now, growing familiarity with the zero-emissions solutions that are on the market is vital for planning the future of your business. HEG

JLG X770AJ ARTICULATING BOOM LIFT

LIEBHERR LR 1250.1 UNPLUGGED CRAWLER CRANE

VOLVO DD25 TANDEM ROLLER

5 WAYS TO PICK THE RIGHT HAULER TO MAXIMIZE PRODUCTIVITY AND PROFIT

BY TYLER SMITH

Most fleet managers and equipment owners understand the importance of right-sizing their machines to work together at their maximum potential. This decision is especially crucial for pairing articulated haulers and excavators because, if they are mismatched, you’ll be inefficient and burn extra fuel.

What’s not always understood is the best way to go about this. So, if you happen to be in the market for a hauler or you’re simply wondering whether your machines are properly matched, here are five ways to ensure that you’re getting the right machines and are using them to their full potential.

1. LET TECHNOLOGY HELP

There are some great tools out there that can help you size and pair machines depending on your unique situation. At Volvo, for example, we use our Site Simulation tool to look at factors like the haul roads, total yardage, time constraints, and the type of material being moved. We then use that information to right-size the truck to the loading tool to increase efficiency on the job. Some customers already know what they want, but we can help steer them further in the right direction. For example, if one larger hauler can match or even increase production over two smaller ones, you can potentially reduce your fleet size, optimize your workforce, and so on.

Construction calculators can also help uncover costs and savings you may not realize up front. Some OEMs have proprietary sales tools they use alongside their dealers. These can calculate the TCO of a machine, allow customers to select different specs (e.g., buckets, boom configuration), calculate fuel consumption and the number of passes to fill a hauler, and more.

2. PUT GOOD DATA IN; GET GOOD INFO OUT

Whether you use those specific tools or prefer to solve the equation a different way, it’s important to have the best inputs possible. A few important data points to know:

• Job duration. If you have a job that’s a few months or less, it’s not practical to move a 60-ton haul truck to that site because it has to be hauled on a beam trailer instead of a lowboy, adding to your transport logistics and costs.

• Transport. Different regions have different hauling laws. If you’re transporting across regions or are trying to avoid extra permitting, smaller haul trucks are the way to go.

• Hills and grades. If you’re operating in hills or on steep grades, a mid-sized hauler in the 40-ton range will typically outproduce a 60-ton hauler. That’s not to say a 60-ton machine can’t handle the grades – it just might not be your best bet depending on what you’re hauling and how long your routes are.

• Underfoot conditions. For rough-terrain sites, a hauler with full hydraulic suspension or front hydraulic suspension will give you the smoothest ride and reduce the level of maintenance required for your haul roads. More productive operators and lower job site maintenance costs can earn you higher profits over the long term.

• Material density and weight. If you’re moving a fine, light material like wood chips over long haul roads, a hauler with sideboards or even a light-material body may be ideal for moving as much volume as possible. With large rock, on the other hand, there will be voids in the load but the density will be greater, so it will take less volume to reach the truck’s max tonnage.

• Cycles. If your haul roads are short, a 25- to 45-ton truck will likely be more productive because it’s faster and nimbler. But if you have a long haul road, a 60-ton machine hauling more volume would likely be more productive.

3. LOOK BEYOND THE STICKER PRICE

Your upfront cost, whether for purchase, rent, or lease, is just one of the factors to consider in hauler shopping. What it really comes down to is what you spend versus what you make while that truck is in your fleet – and productivity can make or break that profitability.

Moving more tons per day and doing it efficiently means you can make more money from your machine over time. Lower-cost machines may seem appealing at first glance, but they can quickly empty your pockets with excessive downtime, maintenance costs, lower resale values, and more.

Keep in mind things like cycle times, ability to dump easier and more quickly (aka higher pivot points), fuel efficiency, properly matched components, maintenance, and operator training. A lot of seemingly small factors like these can add up over time.

4. MAKE SMART CHOICES FOR TODAY AND TOMORROW

Bidding is tougher than ever, and profit margins are razor thin. You can’t mix and match equipment just to win a job. If you plan to use haulers to move large amounts of similar materials long term, it might be more cost-effective to right-size the equipment you currently operate versus renting something

else. The efficiencies you’ll gain in production over time versus multiple years of rental fees are usually worth the investment.

If you’re running older equipment, those machines likely burn more fuel and don’t have the faster cycle times that new equipment has. Saving even two gallons per hour can equate to thousands of dollars over the course of a year, and faster cycle times can help you load significantly more tons per hour. The efficiencies in newer machines help you move more material, which helps ensure that you’re properly outfitted for more bids –and for the ones you win, you’ll have the best shot at getting the jobs done for less.

If you’re going after a big project, you may think you need a big hauler or excavator for the job, but be aware that bigger machines also come with higher operating costs – more fuel, more expensive parts, and so on. Hauling large machines around also costs more.

5. USE THE MACHINES PROPERLY

Once you have your haulers and excavators sized correctly, here are some tips to help you get the most out of them:

• For the fastest cycle times, the most efficient way to load a truck is side loading. Don’t waste time, fuel and money backing in and maneuvering your trucks. If you can set up your site to side-load, you’ll have faster cycle times and lower operating costs over time. Operator settings may also help by allowing your excavator to lift quickly and swing slowly to get over a truck, for example.

• When loading the bucket, make sure good, heaped loads go in the truck and utilize the bed as much as possible. It’s best practice to evenly distribute the load across the bed. You

MAKE SURE GOOD, HEAPED LOADS GO IN THE TRUCK AND UTILIZE THE BED AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE.

want to feather the material into the truck – not just dump it in. When you feather it, it won’t have that “splat” effect that usually leads to material sticking to the bed. This is especially true in sticky clay situations.

• Configure your excavators appropriately with boom and arm options. Some customers prefer a longer reach, while others want as big a bucket as possible to load more material, requiring a shorter boom and shorter arm. The most popular compromise between reach and the bigger bucket approach is a standard boom and short arm. Obviously, there’s give and take with different configurations, so it’s important to configure your excavator for the type of work you’re doing, then make sure your haul trucks are appropriately matched.

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• Use on-board weighing scales to improve accuracy. At Volvo, on-board weighing is standard on all new ADT models. Scales aren’t always standard, though, so be sure to ask your dealer. These scales help operators see each loading cycle, often including lights on the machine that indicate whether to put more material in the bed. Anywhere from 95 to 110 percent of the bed capacity is considered a perfect load.

• Look for additional productivityboosting functions like the ability to skip gears to optimize performance and fuel burn. At Volvo, we also have a feature called OptiShift, which includes a lock-up torque converter and Reverse By Braking, where an operator can shift the truck between forward and reverse without removing their foot from the throttle. When shifting, the transmission will shift to neutral and how much throttle the operator applies will determine the amount of brake force that will be applied. But once the truck hits zero mph, it will shift to the opposite gear.

• Working with an OEM and dealer who have parts on hand and can react quickly is critical. Your support will be even faster if you use telematics systems to diagnose and take care of problems before they become catastrophic issues.

As you can see, there is more that goes into a hauler purchase, rental, or lease than you might have thought. But if you have the right information, talk through the details with your dealer, and use the machines properly, the time spent on making the right decision will pay dividends well into the future.

TYLER SMITH is a product manager for articulated haulers at Volvo Construction Equipment. He has been with the OEM since 2017 and has experience in operator training and field service.

If you plan to use haulers to move large amounts of similar materials long term, it might be more cost-effective to right-size the equipment you currently operate versus renting something else.

CASE CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT NEW D SERIES MINI EXCAVATOR LINEUP COVERS MORE WEIGHT CLASSES

Mini excavators continue to be a popular tool for a variety of applications, from landscaping to underground utility. To meet that popularity and continuing demand growth, CASE Construction Equipment has introduced the first in its D Series of mini excavators, with more units to come as the company fleshes out its offerings from 1.5 to 6 metric tons.

The D Series was introduced at CONEXPO with the CX42D mini excavator. This true zero-tail-swing machine fills a gap in CASE’s lineup.

“The CX42D exists in a critical industry weight class between 4 and 5 metric tons where we did not previously have machines,” says Brad Mace, CASE product manager. “This ensures that we have a total fleet of solutions to deliver to contractors and business owners and allows us to bring the next level of premium mini excavator performance to the market.”

Key focuses for CASE in the development of its new D Series mini excavators were comfort, performance, and footprint –making the machines more effective all around.

Standard features on the CX42D provide a strong starting point for excavator users, and options are available to customize as needed. A standard two-way blade with float improves backfilling and grading operations, while an optional six-way blade adds to those capacities. Users who need more balance can get additional counterweights to help. Standard two-speed travel with automatic shift down improves performance when tracking or carrying uphill.

The D Series mini excavators have been designed with attachments in mind, giving users more versatility thanks to a

range of tools that can be used.

“Mini excavators are continuously underrated as attachment platforms, and the new CASE D Series models are built to prove they can deliver excellent multipurpose capabilities,” Mace says. “We give them the ability to set up and save parameters for nine different attachments and customize the flow based on tool type for optimal performance and operator experience.”’

The excavators come standard with multifunction (1-way/2way) hydraulics as well as a standard second auxiliary (2-way) circuit and the option for a third auxiliary circuit that adds even more versatility. Different coupler attachments are available from the factory depending on user needs and bucket preferences: hydraulic quick coupler, mechanical quick coupler, or standard pin-on bucket.

In the cab, operators will find an automotive feel to the new design. Controls are easily adjustable, and visibility to working areas is improved thanks to large windows and designs that keep sightlines in mind.

A large, seven-inch LCD monitor with navigation wheel mounted near the joystick gives operators access to critical machine information and controls without having to reach for the screen, which simplifies operation. Users can access a variety of tools through the monitor, including selection of working mode – Power, Standard, or Economy – and controls to customize hydraulics for the needed performance.

The CX42D will come standard with CASE SiteWatch telematics. It is also compatible with precision construction technologies. More D Series models will be released in 2024.

CASE CX42D MINI EXCAVATOR

JOHN DEERE CONSTRUCTION & FORESTRY

P-TIER ADTS MAINTAIN PERFORMANCE WHILE ADDING IMPROVED CAB LAYOUT

John Deere has expanded its Performance Tiering strategy with the introduction of two articulated dump trucks, the 410 and 460 P-Tier. The P-Tier models retain many of the features of John Deere’s E-II trucks, including the dump body and drive modes, but have updated external styling and an improved interior cab layout.

IMPROVED CAB IS MORE COMFORTABLE FOR OPERATORS

John Deere has placed cab components in more reachable locations, while also grouping features based on application. The cab is pressurized and designed for quiet operation. It features an easy-to-read monitor and rear-camera display. A high-back air suspension seat with multiple adjustment options is standard, with a premium seat available. Optional automatic temperature control lets operators pick a comfortable temperature and stay there.

“The P-Tier models were built with the operator in mind to support ease of use and operator comfort,” says Justin Steger, solutions marketing manager, John Deere Construction & Forestry. “Redesigning the layout of the components in the cab and grouping features together and packaging them in a mean-

ingful way based on the application are a couple of examples of how we’re incorporating customer feedback and delivering further improvements.”

Two trim levels are available, packaging features together for easier selection. The first trim package offers manually adjusted rear-view mirrors and temperature controls, a standard seat and radio, black exhaust stack, a 15-amp converter, and halogen vehicle lights. The second trim package offers additional features, John Deere says, with power adjusted rear-view mirrors, a premium seat and radio, a 25-amp converter, automatic temperature control in the operator’s station, a chrome stack, and LED vehicle lights.

An optional LED lighting package provides a total of 11 lights, including work lights that are three times brighter than halogen. LED drive lights have twice the lumen output of standard halogens.

DRIVE MODES INCLUDE ECO FOR LOWER FUEL BURN

The 410 P-Tier has a rated payload of 82,157 pounds and a heaped capacity of 30 cubic yards. It is powered by a John Deere PowerTech engine producing 441 hp. At 92,197 pounds,

JOHN DEERE P-TIER ADTS FEATURE REORGANIZED CABS AND DESIGN UPDATES.

the 460 P-Tier is a 481-hp machine that can handle a heaped capacity of 32.9 cubic yards.

The P-Tier machines feature three drive modes. In standard operation, Normal mode can be used. Traction mode applies added control to the auto-differential-lock system and powertrain, aiding in improving grip on soft and slippery ground. Eco drive helps cut fuel consumption in some working conditions through smoother throttle operation, reducing maximum rpms and optimizing the transmission response.

A number of standard features are offered on P-Tier ADTs that both make the machines easier to operate and improve safety. Rollover protection, for example, lets operators know if the dump angle is unsafe, and will stop the cycle if needed. Downhill dump protection calculates the position of the truck to ensure safety when emptying downhill. A frame protection system cushions the return of the dump box as it comes down after a partial dump to reduce aggressive frame seating. Shuttle shifting allows for the transmission to be shifted without coming to a stop, which improves cycle times.

A hill hold feature sets the brakes when the ADT stops on an uphill slope, allowing the operator to move from brake to throttle without a backward roll. Heading down a hill, the machines can take advantage of descent control, which regulates speed using the transmission retarder.

Additionally, the machines have dump body limits, standard transmission warm-up cycles, and maximum speed limits that aid in keeping the operator and machine safer. These also help keep the machine running longer.

DUMP BODIES ARE STRONG WITHOUT ADDED WEIGHT

P-Tier dump bodies are built of high-alloy steel, delivering strength and rigidity while keeping extra weight off. The boxes retain material well while lowering the loading height

and centre of gravity. A bin rail with angled top cuts down on material spillage while moving. The machine remains under 12 feet in width, making it easier to move between job sites.

To improve ruggedness, these machines feature robust machine sensors and simplified routing of electrical harnesses and hydraulic hoses. This combines with fewer connections and shorter hose lengths to make the system less complex and more reliable. All daily checks and periodic service points are accessible from ground level. Factory-installed, electrically powered auto-lube is available as an option and integrates with machine diagnostics, making daily maintenance easier.

Technology features include an optional on-board weighing system, which shows payload on the in-cab monitor during loading and can transmit through the JDLink system. Also available through the monitor is a system that limits how far off-level the rear chassis can be when unloading. If the limit is breached, the machine will stop the dump body from raising and alert the operator.

JDLink connectivity tracks machine location, utilization data, and alerts to ensure the machine is producing the way it should. Connected Support, remote diagnostics, and other dealer monitoring features can also be used.

JOHN DEERE ADTS HAVE A DUMP BOX DESIGNED TO ENSURE MATERIAL RETENTION.

P-Tier articulated dump trucks feature cabs with new designs that place controls more conveniently and give operators a more comfortable work space.

ASTEC DATA SUITE CONNECTS EQUIPMENT FROM CRUSHING TO PAVING

BY LEE TOOP, EDITOR

Aggregate businesses are often diverse and have divisions spanning segments that stretch from the quarry to the construction site. As digital technology develops, those businesses are seeking ways to connect tools and use collected data to improve their operations.

Astec Industries introduced a new division, Astec Digital, at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 to develop technology that will span the length of the rock value chain. Its target is to produce a digital platform that provides information and data collection through accessible, unified tools.

With connected solutions developed by Astec Digital, users will be able to monitor, control, and optimize operations across multiple segments, improving their overall efficiency.

VERTICAL INTEGRATION CROSSES OVER OPERATING SEGMENTS

Astec Industries manufactures equipment for all aspects of rock processing, from crushing and screening tools through asphalt and concrete batch plants to road rehabilitation and asphalt paving. Many businesses that work with Astec are vertically integrated and use a combination of machines across their operating segments.

“They’ll have a quarry, and at the quarry, they may have a plant for recycling asphalt or concrete. Then they’ll have an asphalt plant close to the quarry. They might have a ready-mix concrete plant. From there, they’ll take the asphalt, put it in a Shuttle Buggy, and pave a highway,” described technical sales director Dave McCracken.

Technology has made its way into each link of the chain, through telematics, machine controls, or monitoring. The chal-

lenge is that existing digital tools operate individually, rather than being connected.

“We have multiple digital systems right now depending on the segment and the piece of equipment. If you have one encompassing digital platform, then that one customer would not have multiple systems to deal with – it simplifies solutions,” McCracken said.

ACQUISITIONS DRIVE ASTEC DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT

Astec formed the base for Astec Digital with two recent acquisitions – Grathwol Automation and MINDS Controls. The addition of technology and solutions from those two companies has given the new division a strong starting point.

“We have some real areas of strength to build from. Our ultimate goal is to connect our entire product portfolio and provide connected solutions for our customers and really for the whole value chain,” described Eric Baker, vice president and general manager of Astec Digital. “We will have to prioritize and grow in those areas as we go, but ultimately that will depend on what provides the most value for our customers and where they can use insights to drive profitability.”

Under the Astec Digital banner, the goal will be to connect fixed and mobile equipment throughout the Astec fleet in a standardized manner to simplify and optimize technology use, while providing useful, actionable information to businesses.

“We all have data overload. Customers want insight and actionable information, but ultimately, it’s about what makes them more efficient and prevents downtime – moving from reactive to proactive,” Baker said.

PRODUCT SUITE PROVIDES DATA ANALYSIS AND OPTIMIZATION

The first offering to combine technologies under the Astec Digital banner is the Astec Data Suite. A collection of digital solutions that provide data-based knowledge and optimization across multiple product segments, Data Suite focuses on four areas: controls and automation, telematics, data and process intelligence, and robotics.

In asphalt and concrete batch plants, for example, the Astec Data Suite has blended Astec’s control knowledge with technology from MINDS to provide operators with a control system that is modular and easy to configure while remaining reliable and accurate. Easy to learn and capable of remote access, the system collects data during operation that moves up to higher-level business management tools for further analysis.

Data Suite tools can manage plants at multiple sites, track material use, generate tickets and invoices, and produce performance metrics dashboards. It also can monitor jobs and tanks in real time. This approach makes it easier for managers to review critical information using a single point of reference.

Telematics under the Astec Data Suite allows for remote machine monitoring wirelessly and enables service teams to address problems remotely when needed. A common user interface makes the system easy to use, providing insight into the health of key components.

DATA ANALYSIS AND DIAGNOSTICS REDUCE DOWNTIME

Remote diagnostics and maintenance are valuable parts of Astec’s digital offering, and are an area that will grow across the

platform moving forward.

“In asphalt and concrete, you have a perishable product. Being able to get a machine back up and running more quickly than having to send a technician out or being there physically is a huge advantage and makes the machines more profitable and successful,” Baker said.

For crushing and screening equipment, data analysis that monitors operating parameters ensures that the correct maintenance takes place on time, reducing the likelihood of unexpected downtime, McCracken noted. Tools that automatically adjust the operating parameters of machines, such as cone crushers, ensure they are generating the correct product while responding to changing conditions as needed.

Sustainability can also be improved using integrated digital offerings across segments. More efficient asphalt plant burners cut emissions, while data analysis that improves efficiency on mobile equipment means it burns less fuel and produces more per gallon of fuel used.

Moving forward, Astec will continue to put an emphasis on development of an overarching common platform that can tie together all its digital tools, while adding more functionality to existing offerings.

Predictive analysis will be one near-term focus, Baker said. Using data collected through Astec Data Suite to determine the potential for breakdowns on individual machines, owners will have the knowledge they need to avoid downtime before it happens.

“The ultimate goal is making sure people don’t have unexpected downtime – if a part is going to fail, they can plan to get it fixed over a weekend or when they’re not working,” Baker described. “I can see us getting into that quickly.” HEG

CONE CRUSHERS ARE ONE PART OF THE ROCK VALUE CHAIN COVERED BY THE ASTEC DIGITAL PLATFORM.

THE GOAL OF ASTEC DIGITAL IS TO CONNECT ALL TYPES OF EQUIPMENT ACROSS SECTORS WITH A SINGLE PLATFORM.

HOW TO PREVENT ASPHALT BUILDUP IN COMPACT PAVERS

ASPHALT COLLECTING IN AND ON PAVERS CAN CAUSE PROBLEMS – KEEPING THEM CLEAN IS AN ALL-DAY TASK

BY LEE TOOP, EDITOR

Asphalt pavers move tons of material through many moving parts to lay down smooth mats of all sizes. Not all of that asphalt makes it into the mat, though – material can become caught in various places and must be cleared before it hardens.

Smaller pavers, which may perform multiple jobs through the day, are at risk of asphalt buildup in the system, causing excess wear and unnecessary downtime. Preventing buildup damage is an all-day project, from startup to shutdown.

BUILDUP LEADS TO BREAKDOWN OF PAVER AND PAVING QUALITY

When asphalt collects unnoticed on the surfaces of an asphalt paver, problems start almost immediately. Effects can be seen both in the mechanical state of the machine as well as the quality of the mat it is laying, said Chris Broome, senior product manager with LeeBoy.

“The excess buildup is going to increase wear on your parts –anything that moves and anything that the asphalt contacts. So, you have excess wear and the binding of parts as that material hardens,” Broome described.

When asphalt gets caught up in one spot, more material gathers there and starts to affect operation immediately. Buildup on the screed, for example, results in material not moving smoothly and causes issues with the mat.

Compact pavers can be especially challenging for asphalt buildup simply because of how they’re used. A competitive labour market in paving makes it difficult to keep long-time employees on commercial crews, which can lead to training issues surrounding activities like cleanup. Pavers may be

more likely to go without necessary cleaning, causing problems the next day.

Moving from job to job through the day, compared to highway-class pavers that usually work on one project long-term, can also lead to cleaning hiccups.

“Some of these guys are doing driveways, where you may do two or three in a day. So, you have buildup sitting there for a couple of hours between jobs that hardens up. They don’t necessarily need to do a full cleanup between jobs, but they really need to take a minute or two and knock that material off,” Broome said.

START CLEAN AND STAY CLEAN

Protecting pavers against asphalt buildup needs to start when the paver is brand new and continue through the machine’s

working life. The first task with a new paver is to give it a good spray with a release agent approved for use by local authorities. These water-soluble agents provide a clean slate that helps prevent asphalt from adhering.

“With all that fresh paint and all those fresh surfaces, you want to do the best spray down before the first job. If you’ve got a wide conveyor paver, that includes lifting the deck,” Broome said. “All areas that are going to come into contact need to be hit with the release agent before the first load of mix ever hits the machine. It’s very critical.”

Treating those surfaces is also key prior to starting work every day. Operators will usually notice certain spots that collect asphalt on their pavers and should spray them with release agent to start the day, Broome said.

During the day, crews should watch for certain situations

BUSY SMALLER PAVERS CAN BE AT RISK FOR ASPHALT BUILDUP THAT MAY RESULT IN EXCESS WEAR AND DOWNTIME.

Excess buildup is going to increase wear on your parts – anything that moves and anything that the asphalt contacts. So, you have excess wear and the binding of parts as that material hardens.

Chris Broome Senior Product Manager, LeeBoy

that can contribute to buildup. Overfilling of the screed can push material over the top of the screed where it can harden, and backing into a pile may pick up asphalt that sticks to the back of the screed. Commercial crews often have ground workers who take shovels of material to fill around utilities or other obstacles, which can leave small spills that need to be cleaned up.

Spills should be cleaned up immediately while the asphalt is still hot. Crew members should knock it off if within reach and, if not, they should spray it with release agent so that it can be removed later.

WRAP UP THE DAY WITH A GOOD CLEANING

At the end of the day, it is essential to give pavers a good cleaning to prevent asphalt from hardening overnight. Broome advises to start with the conveyor, which has the most contact with asphalt through the day.

Run the machine, turn the conveyors, and spray each individual bar as it moves, especially on pavers with wide conveyors in which the bars move under the deck into the belly pans –this carries the release agent under the deck and helps keep material in that area from hardening fully. It’s also a good idea to move the conveyor a half hour or so after the process to keep the bars from settling in any unseen material that may then cause resistance in the morning.

Knock excess material off both edges of the screed and spray them down, then run screed extensions out and check them for buildup as well, Broome advised.

Some areas that can be overlooked in the cleaning process and cause lingering issues include the wing hinges on either side of the hopper. The space behind the hinge is especially problematic; if asphalt builds up too much it can cause damage. Check the tracks and walk boards as well – they are frequently skipped.

CONTROL MATERIAL TO REDUCE BUILDUP

When it comes to protecting compact pavers from asphalt buildup, design can make a difference. To prevent buildup, LeeBoy has designed its pavers to keep the material moving smoothly through the machine.

LeeBoy uses a sonic sensor to manage the height of material in the extension, and automatic controls keep asphalt from overflowing. Overloading can get between and under the tracks, causing a variety of problems, so sensors that keep the pile height down make a difference.

Some LeeBoy machines also use wing wipers, which are found at the back of the wings where they meet the engine compartment. They protect against material escaping in that area.

“Use pavers with some additional controls that help you keep the material where it’s supposed to be,” Broome advised. “If you pull so much material that it’s coming up and out the walk boards or toe board on the back of the paver, you’re going to have a lot of problems.” HEG

DURING THE WORKING DAY, PAVING CREWS SHOULD KEEP AN EYE ON COMMON LOCATIONS WHERE MATERIAL CAN COLLECT ON THEIR MACHINES.

HOPPER WING HINGES ARE ONE SPOT WHERE ASPHALT BUILDUP MAY BE OVERLOOKED.

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HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT TELEHANDLER FOR YOUR JOB SITE

BY JOHN BOEHME

Telehandlers are extremely versatile machines to have on job sites thanks to their ability to complete so many different tasks, like loading (and unloading), picking up, carrying around, moving from place to place, and lifting and placing materials and tools. In addition, their ability to place and retrieve loads at height provide obvious advantages over more traditional construction machines like wheel loaders, skid steers, or vertical mast forklift trucks. This flexibility means that telehandlers are often one of the most highly utilized machines on a job site.

It also means that the most common challenge with telehandlers, from a user’s perspective, is selecting the right machine to meet project requirements or job site needs. Why? Because these machines have one distinct and dynamic feature – the telescopic quality of the model – that must be considered during the selection process.

HOW TO UNDERSTAND A TELEHANDLER’S LOAD CAPACITY CHART

Since telehandlers also have the unique potential to extend those materials away from the vehicle with the telescoping boom, it is up to the machine’s operator to assure the material they are lifting, placing, or carrying is within the rated capability of the unit. Understanding the elements that go into the successful placement of a load are vital to effectively using a telehandler.

One of the resources you need to consult before using a telehandler is the machine’s load capacity chart. Every telehandler is equipped with one for each of the different attachments it can support, such as a fork carriage, bucket, or truss boom. The load capacity chart highlights two key elements: a telehandler’s operating range and its operating envelope.

• The operating range of the telehandler reflects minimum and maximum boom angles, as well as fully retracted and extended boom positions.

• The operating envelope is located relative to the load centre position of the attachment.

A load capacity chart looks like the example in fig. 1.

To effectively utilize the load capacity chart, you must initially determine some basic criteria:

With so many different models and size classes to choose from, rental centres will ask customers detailed questions about the work that needs to be completed to make sure they understand how much weight will require lifting and how much reach is needed to place the load. These two criteria are the starting point in selecting the right model. With this information, you can utilize a telehandler’s load capacity chart to determine which model is right for your project.

• The weight of the product or material being elevated

• Desired height or reach that needs to be achieved

• The model’s load capabilities

Once equipped with this information, the load capacity chart will provide you with guidance that will allow you to confidently utilize your telehandler. For example, once you have successfully paired the weight and telehandler model, you can use the load chart to assess the load placement or retrieval position.

The most common challenge with telehandlers, from a user’s perspective, is selecting the right machine to meet project requirements or job site needs.

Because boom angles and extensions are an integral part of every load capacity chart, you will use boom angle and extension information to place or retrieve the intended load at the required height and reach.

As an example, using the load capacity chart shown in fig. 2 for reference, if you need to place a 5,000-pound palletized load (with a load centre of 24 inches) at a height of 20 feet and a reach of 20 feet, the rental store would suggest that you opt for utilizing a fork carriage attachment. Knowing this is the attachment you will be using, when you review your telehandler’s load capacity chart you would determine the boom angle, the boom extension and the corresponding zone to successfully place the load.

HOW TO UNDERSTAND A TELEHANDLER’S HORSEPOWER RATING

Once you’ve consulted a telehandler’s load capacity chart to understand what size machine you’ll need, you’ll have to decide how much horsepower is needed for the application.

Today’s telehandler engines are regulated by the U.S. EPA under the Tier 4 guidelines, which are based on the engine power and are divided into specific power ranges. For each specific power range, the EPA dictates what can be found in a Tier 4 engine’s exhaust, such as particulate matter and how much of each type of content, as well emissions, is permissible. Every Tier 4 Final telehandler will come with details about how its different engine options meet the current emission regulations. With the strict engine emission regulations required for Tier 4 compliance, there’s an important breakpoint in the telehandler horsepower ranges to understand – above or below 74 hp (55 kW) – when choosing one engine option over another.

The advantage of engines below 74 hp is that they meet current clean-air standards without diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) aftertreatment. For most rental applications, including general construction use, a telehandler with a 74-hp engine will deliver plenty of power for machine operations.

The compromise with engines above 74 hp is that these machines require the use of DEF.

With multiple choices available for each telehandler model, it’s important to work with your rental centre to understand the differences between lower and higher horsepower engine options, which will help you determine the right engine type for your job site.

By truly understanding your project requirements and a telehandler’s load capacity chart and horsepower rating, rental centres will be able to assist you in the selection and delivery of the right telehandler for your job – and even when it becomes appropriate to swap out machines, if necessary, as the project progresses.

JOHN BOEHME is a senior product manager at JLG.

Flexibility means that telehandlers are often one of the most highly utilized machines on a job site.

FIG. 1

FIG. 2

Stability Indication (LSI) as well as a two-way right-sideview camera for improved visibility and operator confidence during operation.

automatic parking brake, raised pedals, and excellent visibility to the load. Available options include LED lighting, rear-view camera, and a personal work platform.

modes. The low-profile boom sits below operator eye level to provide an open view of the surroundings.

The 12,000-pound-capacity Genie GTH-1256 telescopic handler is designed to improve durability, lower total cost of ownership, and provide maximum productivity. It can lift 6,000 pounds at a maximum height of 56 feet 3 inches. To simplify maintenance, the GTH-1256 shares features and parts with the GTH family. A side-mounted 120-hp Deutz engine with four-speed powershift transmission delivers 15 percent more power efficiency for picking and placing. New limited slip differentials on both axles and full-time 4-wheel drive provide torque and traction needed for any job site, and proprietary Enduro A/T hybrid, all-terrain tires are standard.

GENIE GTH-1256

WHY YOU SHOULD AUTOMATE YOUR PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE PROCESSES

BY HAYDEN PRICE

Heavy equipment is expensive, with new equipment costs that can easily range into the mid to high six figures. Properly maintaining equipment keeps it working at peak capacity. Unexpected breakdowns from inadequate maintenance can be costly, especially if a rush order for parts needs to be placed and shipped. If the replacement parts do not arrive on time, you will have an idle crew, which can cause project delays.

A study by Caterpillar found that idle time for a piece of heavy equipment can range from 400 to 800 nonproductive hours per year per machine. This can eat up a contractor’s margins, especially if the contractor has more than one piece of equipment that needs repair. Insufficient maintenance can cause severe damage to a piece of equipment, invalidating its warranty and insurance coverage.

Most contractors use dozens to hundreds of pieces of equipment at the job site. Without technology to monitor and manage this equipment, contractors would spend all day on paperwork – ordering replacement parts, managing timecards, scheduling repairs and work orders, and so on. Construction companies that use maintenance software stay on top of preventive maintenance, automating processes to keep equipment running smoothly.

AUTOMATING MAINTENANCE PROCESSES SPEEDS REPAIRS AND LOWERS COSTS

Software to automate maintenance processes improves efficiencies, speeds repairs, and lowers costs. It also streamlines processes by automating tasks for scheduling and generating work orders. It can automate workflows, allowing you to eliminate manual processes that can be time-consuming and prone to errors.

Parts inventory can more easily be tracked using software. It monitors spare parts usage and automates reordering so that stockouts, which can leave contractors idling for hours waiting for the needed parts, are reduced.

Automated data capture reduces the need for manual data entry and improves the accuracy of maintenance records. Standardized maintenance processes perform preventive maintenance tasks consistently and according to best practices. Data is captured throughout the maintenance process so that managers know what has been done to the equipment and who worked on it.

Integrating your maintenance software with telematics devices or sensors lets you capture real-time equipment performance and usage data. You can use maintenance history data and costs for better maintenance schedules and replacement

strategies. With visibility into maintenance activities, you can identify bottlenecks in your maintenance processes and better decide how to improve your operations.

ACCESS AND WORK WITH MAINTENANCE RECORDS MORE EASILY

Construction maintenance software centralizes maintenance data, making accessing and managing maintenance records easier. A central repository of information lets contractors easily see what work needs to be performed, what has been repaired, and the costs. Reports are streamlined with information on equipment performance, maintenance history, and costs. Trends and patterns identified in the data and reports inform contractors if their maintenance operations are meeting strategic goals. Maintenance software helps contractors comply with regulatory requirements, such as safety standards and environmental regulations, by ensuring that preventive maintenance tasks are performed on time and according to the correct schedule. With better records on file, contractors can generate reports needed for compliance.

Contractors can also identify potential safety hazards and maintain equipment according to safety standards. Using

software can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries in the workplace. Managers can see which tasks were performed on time and according to the correct schedule.

Contractors can schedule safety inspections and ensure that safety issues are identified and addressed promptly. Automating safety policies, such as lockout/tagout procedures, reduces the risk of accidents and injuries associated with manual processes. Users get real-time access to safety data, enabling quick retrieval of information on safety inspections, incidents, and training.

Maintenance software can help contractors identify potential safety hazards by tracking equipment performance and maintenance history and providing alerts when maintenance is needed. This can help reduce the risk of workplace accidents and injuries, improving workers’ safety and well-being.

MANAGE FLEETS MORE EFFICIENTLY

Automation improves the efficiency of maintenance processes by eliminating the need for manual data entry, reducing errors, and improving accuracy. This can reduce the time and resources required to complete maintenance tasks.

By performing regular maintenance, you can extend the life of the equipment and reduce the need for costly repairs or replacements. The software can track and manage all equipment and assets, enabling you to identify which items require maintenance or replacement. This can help avoid unnecessary expenses for replacing equipment that is still functioning effectively. Preventive maintenance schedules with alerts can be set by calendar days, run-time hours, or the equipment odometer.

If you have the proper maintenance software, you can use it to know which equipment is making or losing money. You can track and manage all your equipment in one place, including creating work orders, assigning mechanics, reviewing timecards, assigning job and cost codes, assigning damages to specific jobs, and more.

Automating your preventive maintenance processes improves efficiencies, identifies safety hazards, eliminates double data entry, centralizes information, and reduces costs. Using technology to stay ahead of your preventive maintenance schedule is vital for keeping equipment at top performance.

HAYDEN PRICE is the technical product manager for HCSS Equipment360.

AUTOMATING MAINTENANCE PROCESSES USING SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS CAN SAVE TIME AND MONEY FOR CONTRACTORS.

MAINTENANCE SOFTWARE ALLOWS USERS TO REVIEW MAINTENANCE REPORTS AND PLAN FUTURE SERVICE MORE EFFICIENTLY.

RUBBER TRACKS HANDLE HARSH SURFACES TO PROVIDE COMFORTABLE RIDE

After recently entering the rubber track market with a series of products for the agricultural sector, BKT is aiming for construction and industrial applications with its newest track designs.

Rubber tracks are very effective in certain applications where they can improve the mobility and stability of machinery and vehicles in difficult and demanding situations. The MULTIFORCE series of rubber tracks from BKT is designed to withstand harsh conditions, especially on difficult surfaces like aggressive asphalt, mud, rocks, debris, and rough terrain.

The new track series is made of abrasion and wear-resistant materials for a longer life, and at the same time provides a comfortable and safe ride for operators, reducing fatigue and vibration-related issues.

First up in the new line will be the MULTIFORCE BK T91 track, designed for compact track loaders in material handling applications. With a tread made of high-performance compounds, the track has high resistance against cuts, tears, and abrasion, factors that can affect durability and performance. The special formulation combines unique resistance features and durability to make the tracks suitable for daily use in rough environments.

Available in five sizes to start, the MULTIFORCE BK T91 is reinforced with high-tensile steel cords for added performance, reduced downtime, and lower maintenance costs.

An aggressive C-shaped tread pattern features edges that provide solid grip on the terrain, in addition to top traction per-

formance. This makes the track suitable for a variety of surface conditions, such as clay, mud, asphalt, gravel, and sand.

Precise handling ensures good performance even in narrow spaces, which is crucial for material handling operations. BKT says that operators can do their jobs faster and safer thanks to better track performance.

THE MULTIFORCE BK T91 TRACK FOR CTLS HAS AN AGGRESSIVE C-SHAPED TREAD.

A SPECIAL RUBBER FORMULATION AIDS TRACKS IN HANDLING ROUGH SURFACES.

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OBJECT DETECTION SOLUTIONS MAKE WHEEL LOADER OPERATIONS SAFER

Wheel loaders spend a lot of time backing up – but all of that time spent in reverse introduces risk on the job site. At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023, we were introduced to the latest object detection and avoidance technology solutions from John Deere and Hitachi.

JOHN DEERE CONSTRUCTION & FORESTRY

John Deere says that its next generation of production-class and utility-class loaders are specifically designed to improve operator visibility and awareness. Select models can be equipped with new vision and object detection technology. This technology can enhance visibility and help detect obstacles that present job site risks.

Object Detection technology, paired with a high-resolution camera and a dedicated display, increases situational awareness. In addition, the vehicle trajectory logic technology overlays the projected vehicle reverse path to illustrate where the vehicle will move next.

Building upon the object detection enhancements, the Advanced Vision System

integrates two digital cameras on the side-view mirror frames, helping to provide increased visibility to the sides of the machine. Within the cab display, operators benefit from an integrated view of all cameras, helping to increase spatial awareness with wider views and enhanced clarity.

Coming soon from John Deere is SmartDetect and SmartDetect with Assist. SmartDetect combines cameras and machine learning to help give operators a better view of their surroundings. The system alerts operators when an object enters the machine’s projected travel path and provides unique detection alerts for people in the camera’s entire field of view. With SmartDetect Assist, the machine will automatically stop before coming in contact with a person.

HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY AMERICAS

Rear obstacle detection is available on the Hitachi ZW-7 wheel loader line with automatic speed reduction available on select models. The system’s Assist technology actively intervenes when the wheel loader gets close to an object. Once activated, the system automatically disengages the accelerator. The hydrostatic drive pumps are de-stroked and provide gentle deceleration until the operator either diverts or applies the brakes. This system has been designed to minimize false alarms. When stockpiling and operating on slopes, the rear of a wheel loader often faces the ground which

causes many traditional object detection systems to generate a false alarm. This solution uses multiple accelerometers to disengage the system when the ground would normally set off a false alarm.

Audible alerts, alarm level, and timing of the rear obstacle detection system with automatic speed reduction is determined by the distance to the person or object and the wheel loader’s speed. The rear camera provides an image angle of 95 degrees from the rear of the wheel loader. When an object comes within 29.5 feet (9 m) of the projected wheel loader path, an alarm will sound. When the distance between an object and the rear of the wheel loader closes to 12.1 feel (3.7 m) the Assist will begin to decelerate the machine.

JOHN DEERE SMARTDETECT PROVIDES ALERTS FOR PEOPLE IN THE CAMERA’S ENTIRE FIELD OF VIEW. BELOW: REAR OBSTACLE DETECTION IS AVAILABLE ON HITACHI ZW-7 WHEEL LOADERS.

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WHEREVER YOU ARE, BKT IS WITH YOU

No matter how challenging your needs, BKT is with you offering an extensive product portfolio for every field such as agriculture, OTR and industrial applications.

BKT provides concrete, reliable and high-quality solutions to your requests and working needs. Wherever you are, BKT is with you.

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