Heavy Equipment Guide September 2020, Volume 35, Number 8

HEAV Y EQUIPMENT GUIDE SEPTEMBER 2020

BIG POWER, BIG PRODUCTION AN IN-DEPTH REPORT ON PRODUCTION-CLASS EXCAVATORS 12 PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40069270

HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT SCREEN MEDIA 30 COOPER EQUIPMENT RENTALS SEIZES ELECTRIC OPPORTUNITY 37 www.heavyequipmentguide.ca

BEST. KEPT. SECRET. Underestimate at your own risk. CASE Construction Equipment’s CX210D excavator is among the smoothest, most responsive and most powerful excavators in the industry. From faster cycle times to a comfortable operator environment with excellent visibility and intuitive controls, now is the time to get ahead. With CASE.

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Š2020 CNH Industrial America LLC. All rights reserved. CASE is a trademark registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates.

Experience the Progress.

Liebherr Wheel Loader L 580 LogHandler XPowerÂŽ Specialised timber handling kinematics deliver excellent manoeuvrability at maximum lift heights with a selection of grapples for optimum machine availability and versatility High-performance Liebherr-XPower driveline accelerates quickly and enables high travel speed at low fuel consumption Ideal working conditions thanks to superb visibility and numerous safety features

Liebherr-Canada Ltd. 1015 Sutton Drive, Burlington, Ontario L7L 5Z8 Phone: +1 800 387 3922 E-mail: info.lca@liebherr.com www.facebook.com/LiebherrConstruction www.liebherr.ca

Stay strong.

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Contents

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

12

SEPTEMBER 2020 | VOLUME 35, NUMBER 8

28

COVER STORY

37

30 FEATURES 12 In-depth report: production- class excavators

28 C&D processing operation relies on Liebherr fleet

30 How to select the right screen 22 New backhoe lineup focuses on media for your aggregates application functionality and technology 26 Three options to stretch out with long-reach excavators

34 Takeuchi expands earthmoving lineup

37 Electric excavators have rental house charged up 40 How to maintain hybrid aerial equipment 44 Next-generation telematics platform is more intuitive and easier to use Cover photo: Volvo EC750E excavator.

SECTIONS 10 12 22 28 30

Spotlight In-Depth Report Earthmoving & Excavation C&D Recycling Aggregates & Quarries

34 37 39

42 44

Compact Equipment Rental Focus Equipment Maintenance & Management Attachments Machine Control

DEPARTMENTS 8 45 45 46

Editor’s Letter Advertiser Index Highlights From the Web Manufacturing Update

SEPTEMBER 2020

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 7

VIEWPOINT Data collection is part of futureproofing businesses

W

e’ve been in various forms of pandemic lockdown for more than six months now, and we have all had to make adjustments to everything in our daily lives, from how we educate our children to our exercise routines. There’s this whole concept of the “new normal” that we’re gradually moving into, in our personal lives as well as work.

The construction industry is just as affected by this new normal as any other sector. During the depths of the lockdown, construction slowed and in some cases stopped as we tried to work out the best way in which to work while keeping employees and the general public safe. As the country has gradually, slowly reopened, construction has been one of the industries that moved forward. However, those slowdowns and stoppages have brought challenges, and many contractors have found that they weren’t ready for such a sudden, surprising shock to the bottom line.

After previous downturns, heavy equipment contractors have found themselves rethinking their approach to recovery; those that have taken such potential unexpected challenges into consideration as part of their planning have been the ones that are more successful in rebounding.

Equipment and fleet management specialists at EquipmentWatch have looked at how companies are reacting as lockdowns relax, and are encouraging firms to future-proof their businesses sooner rather than later.

A report released by EquipmentWatch recently found that contractors should consider their fleet management and overall costs to prepare themselves for sudden downturns, with a focus toward areas that can aid in keeping cash flow steady while improving longer-term resilience.

“When we look at previous downturns, we see that recovery does not happen equally across the board. Construction businesses who use this period to re-evaluate their equipment, supply chain and technology strategies will position themselves for long-term success,” said EquipmentWatch Vice President Simon Ferguson.

EquipmentWatch asked contractors about their approach to asset management and how they incorporate data analysis into their planning processes, and found that there are plenty of spots in which owners can adjust their approach to future-proof their business. Quick, aggressive action on change can push equipment owners forward more quickly in challenging times; adaptability is key when it comes to success, the results show. Things like incorporating rentals to fill fleet gaps, tracking utilization of machines to determine if rental or ownership is the better approach, and deciding how best to deal with disposition of current assets – while keeping in mind insurance premiums, life cycles, residual values and other factors – are all points to keep in mind.

Much of the decision making, though, comes down to data analysis. EquipmentWatch suggests that digital technology that keeps track of that myriad of details is important, and analysis of that data helps generate decision-making processes that ensure contract rates fit market conditions, equipment costs, general expenses and so forth.

Whether it’s an economic downturn or a global pandemic, planning ahead for potential problems can only be a benefit. Now might be a good time for contractors to give that some thought as we navigate through the current situation, so that when the next unwelcome surprise happens their businesses are ready.

Lee Toop Editor

HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE SEPTEMBER 2020 VOLUME 35 • NUMBER 8 EDITOR Lee Toop ltoop@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 315 EDITOR IN CHIEF Kaitlyn Till ktill@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 330 DIGITAL EDITOR Slone Fox sfox@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 335 ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Sam Esmaili sam@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 110 ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER David Gilmour dgilmour@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 105 MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Arnie Gess agess@baumpub.com; 604-291-9900 ext. 115 ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER Tina Anderson production@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 Tel: 604-291-9900 Toll Free: 1-888-286-3630 Fax: 604-291-1906 www.baumpub.com www.heavyequipmentguide.ca @HeavyEquipGuide FOR ALL CIRCULATION INQUIRES Phone: 1-855-329-1909 • Fax: 1-855-272-0972 e-mail: baumpublications@circlink.ca Subscription: To subscribe, renew your subscription, or change your address or other information, go to: http://mysubscription.ca/heg/ Heavy Equipment Guide serves the Canadian engineered construction industry including: road building 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 e­ xpressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Baum Publications Ltd. Copyright 2020, 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 PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40069270 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Dept., 124-2323 Boundary Road, Vancouver, BC V5M 4V8 Email: baumpublications@circlink.ca Fax: 1-855-272-0972

FOLLOW US @HeavyEquipGuide

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JohnDeere.ca/Connected

ALWAYS CONNECTED. ALWAYS RUNNING. WITH JOHN DEERE CONNECTED SUPPORT,â„¢ your machines are constantly under the watchful eye of both John Deere and your local dealership. Together they can reduce, or even prevent, costly downtime.

All of which keeps you up and running, so that you can Run Your World.

SPOTLIGHT //

INTRODUCTIONS & UPDATES

Keep up to date on the latest equipment and product introductions. Visit HeavyEquipmentGuide.ca or subscribe to our weekly eNewsletter at HeavyEquipmentGuide.ca/newsletter-info JOHN DEERE

EXCAVATOR DESIGNED FOR FUEL EFFICIENCY John Deere’s 200G excavator is designed to decrease the amount of fuel burn without sacrificing power or productivity. Fuel burn is 11 percent less than the 210G. The 200G features a 145-hp (108 kW) Tier 4 Final John Deere PowerTech PSS 4.5-litre engine. Adjustable power modes, including ECO and POWER settings, can be set by the operator based on the job, engaging the machine to automatically change engine rpm and hydraulic pump calibration. With fuel savings in mind, the ECO mode setting allows the machine to automatically adjust to the best balance of fuel consumption and productivity.

This model features a faster swing speed due to efficiencies with the hydraulic system.

As a result, productivity is increased in applications that require swing movements, such as truck loading and trenching operations. This machine is compatible with a broad range of bucket options for a variety of applications.

The John Deere–exclusive double-sealed swing bearing system has enhanced internal grease retention. This helps to reduce the risk of contamination by materials like dust and water. Additionally, reinforced arm-to-bucket joints maximize front-joint durability and reduce maintenance intervals for axial clearance adjustment. The tungsten carbide-coated ear flanges provide high wear resistance and long service life, while steel bushings with grease groove channels increase resistance to abrasion and reduce pin wear.

TOBROCO-GIANT

LOW-PROFILE ARTICULATED LOADER

MQ WHITEMAN

TRACK-DRIVE POWER BUGGY WITH PIVOT DUMP The new WTB-16PD features a pivot dump tub capable of rotating up to 180 degrees to easily and precisely deliver material. The design utilizes an idler wheel to maintain hydraulic hose tension as the tub rotates and prevents premature hose wear. Hand and foot controls facilitate tub rotation and dumping control.

Powerful drive motors propel the buggy through mud and tough conditions. Optimal traction and durability are assured by a steel-embedded ladder track design and rugged undercarriage utilizing cast ductile iron guide wheels. Fail-safe brakes are standard for jobsite safety.

The WTB-16PD offers a versatile 16-cubic-foot tub (2,500 pounds) capacity and polyethylene construction for easy cleaning. Its Honda GX690 engine produces 22 hp and long run times are achieved with 5-gallon-capacity fuel tank. Travel speed is up to 5.3 mph unloaded and 4.7 mph loaded.

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HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

The G2500 (X-TRA) HD has an operating weight of 5,291 pounds. It is equipped with a 4-cylinder, 26-hp Kubota engine and a hydrostatic 4-wheel drive, two gears and 8-ton planetary axles. With limited slip on both axles, this drive ensures that the wheel loader has sufficient traction (18,000 N) and moves smoothly for precise operation with a maximum speed of 12.4 mph.

The compact design of the G2500 makes it possible to work in places with limited space. The height of 232 cm also allows the machine to work in areas with low overhead space. A ROPS/FOPS folding roof is optional, reducing the machine height by another 34 cm. The G2500 HD has a lifting height of 116.7 inches and tipping load of 4,519 pounds. The X-TRA model has a lifting height of 98.3 inches and a tipping load of 5,732 pounds.

TORSUS

OFF-ROAD 4X4 MINIBUS The 4x4 Torsus Terrastorm, based on a Volkswagen Crafter/ MAN TGE 4Motion chassis, features a EURO VI D 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine delivering 140 or 176 hp, paired with a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The vehicle is offered in two trim levels, TT1 Coach and TT2 Nomad, both of which include an upgraded chassis and off-road suspension, all-wheel drive with a locking rear differential, integrated winch in the front bumper capable of towing up to 5.5 tonnes, side steps, durable scratch resistant coating on the lower body panels, and a Duraluminum skid plate running from the engine and gearbox down to the rear differential and fuel tank to protect from damage. TT2 Nomad adds a front metal bull-bar and rear light metal grilles, roof rack with integrated lights, spare tire rack and rear ladder.

The bumper was designed to offer improved off-road capabilities with better approach angles. It features the LED high beam, daytime running lights, fog lights and spotlights as well as the integrated winch. As part of the underside protection, the custom 5 mm Duraluminum skid plate protects the engine, radiator, transmission, rear axle, and DPF, as well as the fuel and AdBlue tanks from off-road damage.

The Terrastorm can accommodate 9 to 20 passengers, depending on the configuration.

>> SEPTEMBER 2020

FOCUS ON MENTAL HEALTH

How to have an open conversation about mental health on the jobsite

By Slone Fox, Digital Editor

W

hen you think of jobsite risks, environmental factors are typically the first to come to mind: risk of falls, materials that need to be handled with care, poor visibility and so on. Invisible hazards, however, tend to be overlooked – mental health is an equally important element of workplace safety that needs to be addressed.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, not only does the construction industry have one of the highest suicide rates out of all occupations, but workers who are struggling with depression and anxiety are also more likely to be involved in incidents that harm themselves or others.

The “tough guy” image that is synonymous with the construction industry often exacerbates the stigma surrounding mental health. To help combat this, employers need to build a supportive culture around mental health in the workplace and move away from disciplinary action.

A study conducted by MATES in Construction shows that 1 in 5 construction workers suffer from mental illness, which can be brought on by many factors that are common within the industry, such as seasonal work and possible layoffs, a highly competitive “macho” culture, the expectation of working long hours and overtime, physical exhaustion, and workplace injuries that can lead to chronic pain or cause negative psychological effects. Due to this, suicide rates in the construction industry are three times higher than the national average in both Canada and the U.S., according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This sobering statistic means that suicide kills more construction workers than falls every year.

To bring attention to these risk factors in the industry, Caterpillar recently held a webinar featuring Michelle Walker from Construction Alliance for Suicide Prevention and Dr. John Pompe, global manager, EAP and Employee Health Programs for Caterpillar to discuss warning signs, actions companies can take, and how to combat the stigma that surrounds mental health.

“The brain is a part of our body and should be treated with the same attention as any other part of our body,” says Walker. “So I give the example of if you’re out on the jobsite, somebody wouldn't hesitate to say, ‘Hey, I've got this spot on my arm, what do you think?’ And their coworker would say, ‘Oh yeah, that looks weird. You should really go to the dermatologist’ and nobody would feel awkward having that conversation. Well, let’s start talking

about mental health issues in the same way. We shouldn't feel any different about saying, ‘Hey, I'm really going into a funk. I just can't get out of it. I’m not sleeping well,’ or whatever it is, and start trying to have those conversations.”

A big deterrent when it comes to seeking help for mental health issues at work is the worry that the employee will be seen as weak and unable to deal with job demands. According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, only 23 percent of Canadian workers feel comfortable talking to their employers about their mental health, as many fear they will face discrimination as a result.

The “tough guy” image that is so prevalent in the construction industry can make workers reluctant to discuss their feelings due to the risk of being stigmatized.

Despite the bootstrap mentality that we often see, men are not immune from mental health conditions.

“They’re less likely to seek help and less likely to vocalize the struggles that they're having. They’re also more at risk for high-risk behaviours and suicide,” says Walker.

What employers should watch for

According to Dr. Pompe, the following signs may indicate a mental health concern: • What are people telling you? For example, are they telling you that they don't feel good or that they’re struggling?

• Is there increased absenteeism?

• Is there an unexplained productivity or performance decline?

• Are they detaching and removing themselves socially, where they were once socially active?

• Are they acting more recklessly with either safety issues or the rules and expectations at work?

Creating an open conversation about mental health

Management must take the lead on starting an ongoing conversation about mental health. According to Walker, the first step is a shift in leadership and company culture.

“When you look at those changes that Dr. Pompe discussed – those at-work behaviours – how are we addressing those? And that's where that real cultural leadership shift has to come in. If somebody suddenly has been a really good performer and then their production has decreased, or if they’ve never had a safety incident and now they’ve had, you know, two near

misses, are those being addressed with disciplinary action, which is just going to increase that level of feeling burdensome, or is the conversation happening? ‘Hey, we noticed this change in your behaviour, is something going on that we need to know about? Is something impacting you that we can help you with?’”

Walker also highlights the importance of making the shift away from a disciplinary culture. By considering mental health and suicide risk as part of performance management tactics, this helps push people to get help as opposed to pushing them away and deeper into a sense of despair.

The Mental Health Commission of Canada has put together some key steps to help build a supportive culture around mental health in the workplace and at home: • Promote mental health across the lifespan in homes, schools, and workplaces, and prevent mental illness and suicide wherever possible.

• Foster recovery and well-being for people of all ages living with mental health problems and illnesses, and uphold their rights.

• Provide access to the right combination of services, treatments and supports, when and where people need them.

• Reduce disparities in risk factors and access to mental health services, and strengthen the response to the needs of diverse communities and Northerners.

• Work with First Nations, Inuit and Métis to address their mental health needs, acknowledging their distinct circumstances, rights and cultures.

• Mobilize leadership, improve knowledge, and foster collaboration at all levels.

Empower everybody, not just leaders

According to Dr. Pompe, it’s not an issue of whether you should or shouldn’t address mental health issues, it’s more of an issue of how.

“I really encourage organizations to empower everybody, not just leaders, because, you know, oftentimes it’s the coworker that's going to see these things even before a supervisor or job foreman or somebody like that notices. Be able to go and speak to somebody in common language and just ask them, ‘Are you okay?’” says Dr. Pompe. HEG Canadian workers in crisis can reach out to Crisis Services Canada online or call 833-456-4566. Residents of Quebec can call 866-277-3553.

SEPTEMBER 2020

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IN-DEPTH REPORT: PRODUCTION-CLASS EXCAVATORS

BIG POWER, BIG

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IG PRODUCTION

By Lee Toop, Editor

W

hen it comes to machines that can move a lot of rock or dirt in a hurry, the production-class excavator stands out for its versatility. Excavators in this class – which is difficult to define with precision, but generally falls in the over-50ton range – are designed to provide high productivity whether working in an aggregates operation, shifting overburden for mines and infrastructure projects, or engaged in large construction. Heavy Equipment Guide asked industry experts to share their thoughts on how these big excavators have been updated and improved for efficiency and productivity.

Emissions and robust hydraulics

As with many machine types, emissions control and improved efficiency have been a big driver of engine development on large excavators. Cory Brant, solutions marketing manager with John Deere, said that the goal for production-class excavators has been to develop systems that allow the machine to keep operating with minimal maintenance or downtime.

“The John Deere 470GLC uses a proven aftertreatment system designed based on a building block approach, combining a DPF and SCR system. This provides worry-free operation,” Brant described. “On the John Deere 670GLC and 870GLC the engines meet Tier 4 Final emissions without a diesel particulate filter (DPF); this means. . . there is no reason to worry

about the DPF, enabling the machine to meet rigorous operating demands, day after day.”

Deere’s large machines also benefit from electronic engine controls, which enable features such as auto-shutdown, auto-idle and multiple power settings, allowing the machine to balance production with fuel efficiency, Brant added.

The need to clean or maintain a DPF is a recurring theme with other manufacturers as well; LBX, for example, offers Isuzu engines in its machines, related Rob Dulaney, product marketing specialist. “With Isuzu, we do not have to utilize a DPF, so there are no service intervals to deal with, or downtime associated with emissions filters,” he said.

Liebherr has also taken a similar approach with its machines, reports David Reid, Ontario earthmoving sales manager for Liebherr Canada. “Liebherr has put great work into a Tier 4 Final system that does not have a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), DPF or exhaust gas recirculation (EGR),” Reid noted. “This makes for a very reliable system that requires less maintenance for the owner and provides more uptime for the machine.”

Engine control is another way in which manufacturers are improving efficiency on large machines.

Komatsu has focused its engine efforts on meeting the needs of emissions while also keeping in mind what operators need to get their work done, according to Kurt Moncini, senior product manager.

KOMATSU PC1250-11

IN-DEPTH REPORT: PRODUCTION-CLASS EXCAVATORS

CASE CX750D “We have improved combustion efficiency with modern electronics and Tier 4 Final controls; we have faster processing in there to collect multiple data inputs from the engine and the hydraulics.

We make the engine and the hydraulic system talk together more efficiently, so we can match the engine performance to the required flows and pressures to do what the operator needs,” he said. “Our strategy now is running the engines slightly slower, which addresses the fuel efficiency situation. . . so we gain an advantage on fuel without making any sacrifices on hydraulic flow.”

Caterpillar’s efforts have also focused on reduced speed as well as larger pumps, according to Ryan Neal, product application specialist. “We have found that lowering engine RPM and having larger-cc hydraulic pumps has helped to increase fuel efficiency, as well as maintaining productivity – and increasing it, in some cases.”

For Doosan, Smart Power Control (SPC), a feature that combines two systems – variable speed control and pump torque control – is used to improve efficiency and maintain productivity, according to dealer and product marketing manager Aaron Kleingartner.

“Variable speed control reduces engine RPMs during low workload requirements, like during the swing

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portion of a dig cycle. This reduces the energy used to perform a task and improves the excavator’s fuel efficiency by up to five percent,” Kleingartner said.

“The pump torque control efficiently matches hydraulic pump torque and engine response to the task, preventing engine overload.”

Engines and hydraulic systems are designed to complement and enhance one another, said Volvo product manager Sejong Ko. Volvo’s largest excavators, the EC480E, EC750E and EC950F, feature fully electrohydraulic systems that control on-demand flow and reduce internal losses in the hydraulic circuit, Ko noted. Benefits include controllability, shortened cycle times and better fuel efficiency.

“The hydraulic systems and engines in today’s excavators can complement and enhance each other; for example, the hydraulics in the EC750E and EC950F work in combination with the high power and torque from the Volvo D16 engine to offer faster cycle times,” Ko said. The EC950F also features a boom swing priority valve, which improves truck loading cycle times.

“There have been incredible advances in diesel engine technology over recent years, but it’s important for manufacturers to always approach machine design in a holistic way. Each system has to integrate with

every other system, so the engine, the hydraulics and the electronics systems all have to work in sync to get the most out of all of these technological advances,” said Nathaniel Waldschmidt, product manager with CASE Construction Equipment. “As an example, CASE D Series excavators are able to provide faster cycle times as a result of an electronically controlled pump, a larger control valve and multiple sensors.

These features combine with the CASE Intelligent Hydraulic System to make the best use of the machine’s hydraulic power and momentum, resulting in added strength and improved fuel efficiency as compared to previous generations.”

Komatsu has also worked to improve its machines through combined control of engines and hydraulic systems as well as better controllability overall, Moncini said.

“We look in particular at lines, sizes, flow restrictions and other factors, trying to make the oil flow as efficiently, and with the least amount of non-productive energy, as possible,” he said. Komatsu used a pilot system on its PC1250LC-11 to allow for added precision and controllability; the machine has speed when it’s needed, but in challenging digging conditions or when handling objects, precise movements are more possible.

IN-DEPTH REPORT: PRODUCTION-CLASS EXCAVATORS

JOHN DEERE 470G LC Kleingartner noted that Doosan’s D-ECOPower feature, currently available on smaller machines, will soon be moving up to its larger excavators. “A pressure-controlled pump, closed-centre main control valve and various sensors in the excavator electronically detect and control the precise amount of hydraulic oil required to perform a task,” he said. “The hydraulic system output requirements are optimized with engine horsepower. Improved feedback through the controls results in smoother machine control and enhanced operator comfort.”

Deere’s hydraulic approach benefits from the use of electronically controlled pumps for a pilot-operated hydraulic system, allowing the pump flow to be controlled more quickly and precisely, Brant said.

“The electronic pump control and pilot hydraulic

system allow us to improve production without losing the ‘feel’ that operators desire,” he said.

Improved electronics add efficiency

With electronics taking on more work in today’s machines, manufacturers are focused on ensuring that their systems can handle the load, while adding new control options and benefits for operators at the same time.

“Electronics have been integrated to work together with the engine and hydraulic system with a focus on customization for efficiency and application,” said Reid. “For example, the stick and boom have individual settings for speed and precision work. This allows greater versatility on the jobsite.

Additionally, technologies such as stick and boom limitation allow for greater safety on the jobsite,

THE INDUSTRY RULE OF THUMB IS TWO MINUTES OR UNDER ON LOAD TIMES, SO IT BECOMES IMPORTANT TO TAKE A LOOK AT HAULING UNIT SIZE – HOW DO I MATCH THAT EXCAVATOR IN PARTICULAR TO EFFICIENTLY LOAD THAT HAULER. KURT MONCINI, SENIOR PRODUCT MANAGER, KOMATSU 16

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particularly around areas with tight overhead conditions, like power lines or a bridge.”

Integration makes it easier to ensure that every piece of the power puzzle is working together at its most efficient, Moncini noted, allowing operators to get the greatest amount of performance from their machine.

“We make sure that the engine, hydraulic system and pump control are speaking and coordinating together so that we’re at the right power band for what’s required in term of output pressure and flow,” he noted. “In the PC1250LC-11. . . we have a new power-plus mode and at the end of the day we see anywhere from 8 to 10 percent improvement in performance by allowing everything to coordinate.”

As with many other aspects of development in recent years, emissions regulations have driven improvement of electronics in excavators. Advances in electronic fuel systems mean companies like Deere can control engine torque curves more precisely, Brant said, to find the “sweet spot” between performance and economy.

“Because of the increased control over engine torque and our electronically controlled pumps we are able to match pump power and torque with engine power and torque, resulting in maximum hydraulic efficiency,” he said. “These machines tend to be the workhorses that set the pace for all other operations on the jobsite. By using advanced electronics to dial in the many systems and components our customers are able to take full advantage of fast cycle rates, strong dig forces and precise controllability to help keep the project moving.”

Volvo also takes advantage of added control to offer a variety of work modes on its machines. “The system controls the engine and hydraulic components; without compromising performance, this improves fuel efficiency, which in turn means lower operating costs,” Ko said. “Utilizing intelligent technology, the system controls on-demand flow and reduces internal losses in the hydraulic circuit.”

Raw efficiency and the lowest cost of ownership.

THAT’S the volvo EX FACTOR. You’re not just building something new, you’re also building a business. That means running a fleet that is designed from the ground up to maximize every dollar you spend and hold its value over time.

Add an EC200E with a great low rate and confidently tackle the challenges of tomorrow with purpose-built efficiency from Volvo.

See the new EC200E at volvoce.com/ec200e.

IN-DEPTH REPORT: PRODUCTION-CLASS EXCAVATORS

DOOSAN DX530LC-5 Cat’s Next Generation excavators use an electric over hydraulic system for control, and Neal said the company’s new main valves are also smarter, which improves longevity for component life.

While a lot of operators and mechanics would prefer to avoid expanding the amount of electronics on a machine, Dulaney noted, it’s important to have the computing power that can fine-tune for efficiency across the board. Combining advanced electronics with telematics means operators can monitor everything from engine speeds and hydraulic temperatures to production rates on individual machines.

On CASE excavators, four control systems are integrated to improve performance, Waldschmidt noted. Boom Economy Control cuts RPMs by using gravity when the boom is lowering or swinging; Auto Economy Control reduces RPMs while idling and automatically shuts down the engine after a certain period of idle; Swing Relief Control reduces hydraulic power when a swing starts; and spool stroke control adjusts hydraulic pressure while digging.

“Using improvements to the Spool Stroke Control system, our D Series excavators re-use hydraulic fluid whenever possible to automatically increase cycle times and efficiency. The operator experiences a more productive machine without losing the precision of the machine’s controls,” he said.

Productivity enhancements from technology

Production-class machines are designed to move material – lots of it – and keeping track of what has been moved is important data for owners to collect and understand. At the same time, these machines are often tasked to dig deep – and sometimes out of sight. Fleet management software, telematics and grade control are all technologies that are finding homes on large excavators.

Working in deep trenches makes it difficult to know where the bucket might be. Digging blind is a key reason for grade control options to be used, according to Brant.

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“John Deere offers a Grade Guidance system on the 470GLC that allows the operator to know exactly where the bucket is in relation to the desired grade by using a 2D benchmark or surface file through GPS,” Brant said. “Grade Guidance provides operators the information they need while allowing them to operate at their own pace. In difficult digging situations this provides some big advantages; for example, when the operator may need to dig below grade to remove a boulder, or make other adjustments on the fly.”

Deere’s next steps for improved operator experi-

ence include efforts to develop upgradeable solutions, such as automatic boom control to allow for fast, smooth cycle rates, Brant added.

Good control is also important for Volvo, and the Dig Assist program is designed to help operators determine how to level out sites, dig trenches, take quick measurements or even create multi-dimensional site profiles, according to Ko. “It is essentially a collection of apps that the operator can access from the in-cab display, putting the ability to increase their productivity literally at their fingertips,” Ko said.

IT’S IMPORTANT FOR MANUFACTURERS TO ALWAYS APPROACH MACHINE DESIGN IN A HOLISTIC WAY. EACH SYSTEM HAS TO INTEGRATE WITH EVERY OTHER SYSTEM, SO THE ENGINE, THE HYDRAULICS AND THE ELECTRONICS SYSTEMS ALL HAVE TO WORK IN SYNC. NATHANIEL WALDSCHMIDT, PRODUCT MANAGER, CASE

Operator awareness is another area that can be a challenge in larger machines. There are a lot of potential blind spots around big excavators, and Komatsu has made improved visibility a part of its efforts. An upgraded in-cab monitor gives operators a better view at gauges and other information, as well as the company’s camera system “We have a four-camera system; I have the ability to have a bird’s-eye view on the screen, or I can select particular camera views. I can pick any one of those four cameras. . . and still have my gauges and other information surrounding the view,” Moncini said. “If I’m in a large sewer or water project in an urban area, I have to worry about people or trucks around me. . . now I have those cameras all coordinating together, and it gives me significantly better operator awareness.”

Payload measurement is an important area that Caterpillar has considered in its machines, Neal noted. “We have a standard Cat Payload system in our production-class-sized machines. This helps to prevent over- and under-loading the trucks, as well as help track productivity in terms of total tons moved in a day to how many trucks have been loaded. It also keeps track of tons per gallon and per hour to name a few of the features,” he said.

Telematics are becoming more popular on a variety of machines, but according to Ko there are sometimes reservations among contractors to using these systems.

“Too many systems send countless fault codes that don’t distinguish between critical machine issues versus what’s more routine. They also require a big time commitment,” Ko said. “Volvo ActiveCare Direct is an advanced telematics system that addresses this by analyzing the data for owners and sending them and their dealer a case alert with the probable cause, a recommended solution and the potential consequences of not acting.”

Uptime, versatility also key for production-class excavators

LIEBHERR R 976

At its root, production-class excavators to move material, fast and at a low cost, to make the owner money. Fuel efficiency is important for these machines, Kleingartner noted.

“It’s important to note that crawler excavator fuel efficiency should not be rated as an amount per hour, but rather the amount of fuel consumption by yards of material moved,” he said.

To that end, it needs to be up and running as much as possible.

“Imagine a quarry with 10 ADTs being loaded by a single excavator; if the excavator has issues, the customer has 11 pieces of equipment – and operators – sitting idle. The thought of it would likely make any site or project manager sick,” Brant said. “Advancements in telematics such as JDLink are helping to keep equipment managers updated on the health of their fleet. This information is also providing feedback to the dealer network, opening the lines of communication and building a real partnership between the customer and dealer.”

That data can be used for planning preventive maintenance before issues crop up, and allows for scheduling of service as needed, Brant added. Reid agreed, noting that Liebherr customers are embracing more integrated technology all the time, including fleet management software that aids in keeping production data at their fingertips.

Versatility of these large machines is another important factor, as they do take on other tasks beyond digging, Ko noted.

“Production-class excavators are not only used for digging, but also for demolition, material handling, forestry and more, so they can work at various jobsites and with different attachments,” Ko said.

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IN-DEPTH REPORT: PRODUCTION-CLASS EXCAVATORS

VOLVO EC950F “Volvo’s large excavators set an auxiliary hydraulic line of high pressure as standard, which works with a hammer, shear, processor and more for any application.

Pressure and flow of the auxiliary line can be set up in the cabin, which is convenient for changing attachments in the field.”

Ease of operation can be important in large machines, especially with the current labour shortage in heavy construction, Waldschmidt said.

“Manufacturers are continually developing technology that provides more comfortable, easy-to-use operator interfaces that appeal to both seasoned pros as well as less-experienced operators – control options, etc. On our D Series excavators, CASE offers a standard control pattern selector that allows operators to easily switch between ISO and SAE patterns based on their preference,” he said.

One point to consider with production-class excavators is the types of trucks it will be loading, and ensuring that they match up well with the machine, Moncini advised.

“The industry rule of thumb is two minutes or under on load times, so it becomes important to take a look at hauling unit size – how do I match that excavator in particular to efficiently load that hauler,” he said. “You need to make sure that you can load that truck efficiently and that you have a machine big enough so the truck isn’t sitting there for minutes at a time being loaded.” HEG

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EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION

NEW BACKHOE LINEUP FOCUSES ON FUNCTIONALITY AND TECHNOLOGY Popular size range gets additional boost with lessons from larger machines

By Lee Toop, Editor

W

hen Caterpillar launched its 440 and 450 backhoes in 2019, it was the start of a new approach for the company’s popular multi-purpose machines.

That approach continued at CONEXPO 2020, where Cat introduced an entirely updated line of backhoe loaders, incorporating designs that provide commonality among components, new technologies and more, adding greater functionality for users.

The backhoe line, which includes the 415, 416, 420 and 430 as well as the 420 XE, are designed to be more comfortable, efficient and versatile in a variety of uses and, according to product application specialist Dustin Adams, the 2019 introduction of the 440 and 450 were key to learning just what the backhoe market was looking for at this time.

“We pushed the envelope of technology and advanced features with the introduction of the 440 and 450,” Adams described. “That 2019 introduction afforded us the opportunity to gather customer feedback and market acceptance to confidently incorporate similar updates as it relates to our most popular and successful model, the 420.”

At the same time as Cat was gathering feedback to design the new machines, it was also keeping in mind the needs of the global market, Adams noted.

As backhoe loaders are sold worldwide, Cat needed to keep in mind changing emissions standards in Europe with the advent of Stage V regulations.

“We faced increasing emissions standards in Europe and determined it would be beneficial to adopt the Cat C3.6 for backhoe models produced for European and North American territories,” Adams described. “This new engine platform would not

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only exceed Tier 4 Final emission requirements, but provide a significant fuel savings without compromising performance and horsepower.”

Improved fuel economy from previous models

The new C3.6 brings up to 10 percent better fuel economy compared to the F2 engine that previously powered the backhoe loader line. Most of the line uses a service-free Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) emission solution that uses diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet Tier 4 Final needs; the 415 requires only the DPF to meet emissions needs.

Adams said several models – the 420 through 450 – use Selectable Power Management to improve efficiency. The feature “allows operators to run Cat backhoe loaders at lower engine RPMs while maintaining full implement speeds and full hydraulic power. Operating at these lower engine RPMs can reduce fuel consumption by 5 to 15 percent,” Adams said.

In addition, the C3.6 engine in the 415 through the 430 can boost fuel efficiency by another 10 percent over previous editions of the machine. Pairing that engine with a powershift transmission – an option on the 416 and standard on the 420 and 430 – can easily improve operations.

“The powershift transmission simplifies shifting gears manually by removing the stick shift and allowing the operator to control gear selection by twisting the powershuttle lever,” Adams described.

“Powershift transmissions can also easily be upgraded to Autoshift in the field, typically in less than an hour for added convenience and performance.”

The new models all offer adjustable auxiliary hydraulic flow to the backhoe, allowing the system to be fine-tuned for operation of things like hammers, thumbs and other attachments. Buyers can have the

machine factory-equipped with an optional Integrated Tool Carrier loader coupler for fast attachment changes.

420 XE brings in technology from larger backhoes

For the 420 XE, Cat brought even more of the technology introduced with the 440 and 450 to the smaller machine. Notably, Adams said, the 420 XE features seat-mounted controls.

“Loader/backhoe control joysticks are located on the seat and rotate with the operator/seat when maneuvering from the loader to backhoe.

Seat-mounted controls increase floor space in the rear of the cab, and reduce operator control adjustments, making machine operation more efficient,” he said. “The Dual Mode feature enabled by seat-mounted controls allows operators to run their machines with their seat positioned at an offset angle for better visibility, in addition to allowing them to control implements to the rear of them for easy machine repositioning.”

New boom cylinders on both the 420 and 420 XE offer up to 15 percent improved boom lift performance. The 420 XE has been built with single-tilt loader arms, and uses electronic loader controls that allow the operator to select operations like parallel lift, programmable return to dig, and programmable loader lift kickouts, Adams said.

“Operators can pre-program loader kickout heights and return to dig bucket angles, taking the guesswork out of machine operation and increasing operating accuracy,” he said. “Parallel lift allows the machine to do the work keeping loaders level or controlling full rack angles, thus increasing material retention.”

Operator control modes are also included on the 420 XE, allowing the operator to adjust machine joystick responses and hydraulic modulation, Adams said. “This provides the operator the ability to tune the machine to their operating preferences or to a sensitive job application.”

Pilot controls are standard on the 420 and 430, and optional on the 415 and 416. New seat controls and touchscreen LCD operator display are standard on the 420 XE. Cat Product Link is standard on the new machines, and customers can benefit from remote data monitoring through VisionLink to help expand machine uptime. Owners can customize the data that is shared, such as fuel usage, service reminders and fault alerts depending on their own specific fleet needs. HEG

A MATCH MADE ON-SITE. 3.5 TONS CONVENTIONAL AND MINIMAL TAIL SWING

Added technology updates

In the cab, the new backhoes feature a newly redesigned operator display, which incorporates machine gauges with a colour LCD information display that is soft-key controlled for easier navigation. A variety of settings can be accessed through the display; informational icon pop-ups make it easy to navigate between operating modes, while troubleshooting and maintenance are simplified with text diagnostic descriptions.

A new security system locks down the engine, transmission and hydraulic system unless the operator provides a valid passcode through the control screen or a Bluetooth key specific to the machine is detected.

Kubota compact excavators unlock huge profits. Manoeuvre the tightest spaces and enjoy outstanding breakout force to handle the toughest excavating jobs with speed and efficiency. Rugged, reliable, powerful and ready to tackle your worksite.

kubota.ca |

SEPTEMBER 2020

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 23

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CAMSO TRACKS AND TIRES MAXIMIZE EXCAVATOR UPTIME

Photo courtesy of CASE Construction Equipment North America.

W

hether your machine is tracked or wheeled, Camso rubber track and tire solutions deliver tough performance on every jobsite. By trusting Camso quality and following the right maintenance plan, you can maximize the performance and longevity of your tracks and tires, avoiding unnecessary downtime and reducing costs.

MAXIMIZE UPTIME WITH CAMSO’S HEAVYDUTY TRACKS FOR MINI-EXCAVATORS Your machine only works when your tracks do.

Camso mini-excavator tracks are available in two different rubber compounds ready to deliver longevity and productivity on your jobsite.

The MEX SD Series compound is the best solution for heavy-duty applications. These tracks have been designed to provide superior life and resistance to damage and catastrophic failure.

The MEX HXD Series is Camso’s toughest rubber track solution for hard or extreme heavy-duty applications. These tracks come in two tread patterns and are engineered to provide resistance against damage and catastrophic failure in the most severe conditions.

Camso rubber tracks are designed with technologies to achieve operator comfort and maximum performance.

Camso’s patented 3S internal iron core delivers strong, silent and smooth performance. This technology, incorporated into both HXD and SD tires, prevents detracking and minimizes vibrations to provide superior ride quality and a lower maintenance cost.

Camso MEX Curbshield prevents catastrophic damage to mini-excavator tracks during offloading from a trailer and when driving up and over a curb.

The reinforced rubber of the carcass edge strengthens the track and helps avoid edge-cutting and exposure of internal components to water and debris. Camso’s Curbshield can be found in both HXD and SD tracks.

CAMSO OFFERS A RANGE OF TIRE OPTIONS FOR WHEELED EXCAVATORS Choosing the right tires to achieve top performance in your application is essential. Camso offers seven tire solutions, bias and solid, for wheeled excavators.

Camso bias tires offer the greatest operator com-

INVESTING IN THE LATEST TECHNOLOGIES AND FOLLOWING A MAINTENANCE PLAN WILL KEEP YOUR MACHINES WORKING fort, higher travel speeds and the best traction. Bias tires in dual configuration is the best choice for wheeled excavators in the most common construction applications where the machine will be roading between jobs, operating on dirt jobsites, and carrying out roadside construction and maintenance tasks.

Solid tires in dual configuration are the best option for wheeled excavators that will be operated in tough conditions, such as transfer stations, where there may be steel or glass on the ground. The solid construction and massive tread volume provide the best durability and uptime in these extreme environments.

THE RIGHT MAINTENANCE PLAN MAXIMIZES UPTIME AND REDUCES REPLACEMENT COSTS Following an inspection checklist for both tracks and tires is essential to keeping your equipment on the job.

For tracked machines Regularly inspecting both the tracks and the undercarriage will extend track life. Daily inspection items include: • Inspect tread bars looking for any lost lugs, cuts, punctures or chunking.

• Check the whole carcass for any signs of uneven wear, cuts or exposed cables.

• Inspect the undercarriage for signs of wear that may cause problems.

• Sprockets, idlers and rollers should all be in good working order with no damage, unusual wear or flat spots.

Cleaning the entire track system is essential for maximizing track life. Material build-up can cause track misalignment, de-tracking, sprocket wear and over-tensioning.

When cleaning out the undercarriage at the end of each work day: • Remove materials that are sticky or abrasive, like clay, mud or gravel, as well as ice and snow.

Never attempt to clear built up material by driving the machine.

• Pay particular attention to the drive motors, sprockets and front idlers where debris is more likely to accumulate.

• When operating in corrosive material, such as fuel, oil, salt and fertilizers, flush tracks and undercarriage with clean water.

It is essential to maintain the correct track tension.

Damage caused by routinely over- or under-tensioning tracks can result in costly downtime and track replacement. Loose tracks run the risk of de-tracking, while too tight of a tension magnifies the load and increases wear on the entire undercarriage system.

If you have any further questions about additional rubber track and undercarriage maintenance, don’t hesitate to call your local equipment dealer for more support and mention Camso by name.

For wheeled machines Completing regular inspection of tires will ensure their best performance. Best practices to avoid premature wear on wheeled excavator tires are: • Don’t twin different tires.

• Regularly check inflation pressure and match inflation pressure between twins.

• Regularly rotate tires. Watch for irregular tread wear, especially tapered pattern wearing, as an indicator to rotate.

• Inspect for and remove sharp objects or stones embedded between the lugs or between both tires when in dual fitment.

EARTHMOVING & EXCAVATION

THREE OPTIONS TO STRETCH OUT WITH LONG-REACH EXCAVATORS Adding reach to an excavator can be done from the factory or with a custom approach

By Lee Toop, Editor

V

ersatility is part of the makeup of an excavator; it can move dirt, load trucks, cut trenches, carry various tools and handle a wide variety of jobs. On many of today’s jobsites, though, excavators are being asked to reach farther and dig deeper, and that’s where specialty long-reach machines come into play.

There are a number of different approaches to consider when looking at adding a long-reach excavator to the fleet: for example, purchasing a factory-ready unit, aftermarket addition of a long-reach boom and stick, or attachments that can expand the digging range of the machine.

Factory-fresh dedicated machines

Long-reach machines have a wide range of uses, both for deep digging and other roles that require the ability to reach out farther than standard ex-

cavators. Nathaniel Waldschmidt, product manager with CASE Construction Equipment, said these machines are frequently found along waterways.

“Long-reach excavators are used in various applications – predominantly along riversides, dykes and trenches for pulling material upwards. Long-reach excavators can also be used in demolition applications to extend reach both upwards and outwards,” Waldschmidt described. “Although long-reach machines are most often used for deep excavation, these machines are utilized just as often to provide increased operating performance for sloping, demolition, dredging, digging in sand or gravel pits, or any other application that requires long distance bucket reach, power and precision.”

Obviously, the major difference between a standard excavator and long reach machines is the extended arm that provides additional reach, both in distance and depth, but Waldschmidt said they also often bear an added counterweight to offset the arm, as

Although long-reach machines are most often used for deep excavation, these machines are utilized just as often to provide increased operating performance for sloping, demolition, dredging, digging in sand or gravel pits, or any other application that requires long distance bucket reach, power and precision.

Nathaniel Waldschmidt

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well as an extended undercarriage that brings enhanced stability to the unit.

Those changes to the machine can change the way in which it operates, as well, thanks to weight and leverage moving when compared to conventional machines. Leverage especially is a challenge because it affects the capacity of any attachments the machine might be paired with, Waldschmidt noted. A variety of bucket sizes are available for long-reach excavators, depending on the size and capacity of the machine, but other attachments that are becoming more popular include mulching heads and clearing heads for vegetation management.

One key for long-reach machines is the ability to adjust for different situations, Waldschmidt said.

“Adjustability is huge when it comes to long-reach excavators and the different applications they get put in. At Case, we offer adjustability through our auto mode, H mode and SP mode; this allows the operator to dial in the hydraulic/engine performance for their specific application.”

These machines also benefit from machine control, perhaps even more than other excavators, because often the bucket is working in a space that the operator can not see, Waldschmidt noted. Machine control is also scalable depending on the needs of the owner, from basic grade control up to full 3D systems as needs change.

Because long-reach excavators are already very application-specific, buyers need to keep in mind the job that machine is going to do when purchasing.

“If their machine is going into one application for its entire life cycle, then match the weight and capacity and all options to that application. If the

machine is going into multiple applications, the buyer should consider a machine that can match those applications while remaining as productive as possible,” Waldschmidt advised.

Considering conversions

If buying a new long-reach machine isn’t in the cards, some contractors have taken advantage of companies offering specialty attachment services to add the reach they needed to their excavators.

Brandt Equipment Solutions, a division of the Brandt Group of Companies, has built John Deere–optimized attachments since 2006, covering a broad range of products available in Canada and around the world.

“We work closely with Deere’s engineering team on machine information and model updates,” said Brandt Industries Senior Vice President, Sales – Manufactured Products Neil Marcotte. “It helps us to ensure that our attachments and conversions augment the machine’s performance and ensures Deere-warranty-compliance for all of our products.”

Long-reach front conversions for Deere machines have been part of the Brandt catalogue in recent years. One recent example was a request from Midwest Pipelines Inc., which needed a 60-foot custom spec unit for a Deere 350G excavator. Well-known in the Canadian pipeline industry, Midwest needed a machine for canal work, dredging and laying bedding.

“Long-stick excavators are a musthave in our business – we have a couple of them in our fleet at all times,” noted Midwest Equipment Manager Jim Harvey. “Brandt immediately understood our requirements and had the

engineering and production capacity to create a custom application that does a really great job for us.”

Due to the torsional and bending forces involved versus the strength-toweight characteristics of various grades of steel, a hybrid solution was required if reach envelope and bucket volume targets were to be met.

Once capacity calculations were complete, a full Finite Element Analysis was performed on 3D models of both boom and stick to analyze operational force considerations and ensure structural integrity. The resulting solution employed a combination of high- and medium-strength steels and delivered significantly improved strength-to-weight ratios and overall performance.

To take advantage of the performance boost, Equipment Solutions reconfigured the JD 350G with machined pin bores for precise fit and longevity of components and added a robust custom stick and tool cylinder along with factory-spec main-boom cylinders.

Brandt then tailored a custom long-reach-front-specific bucket for Midwest’s application to ensure that the machine would perform to its full potential and work within its safe working limits. An under-mount rear counterweight was included with the package, engineered to match the machine, the bucket and the desired reach for maximum efficiency.

To ensure safety and ease of maintenance, a centralized grease bank, located at base of boom allows operators to grease all components from one location. Hose routings, clean and

protected up the length of the boom and stick, ensure that these crucial components are held tight to eliminate the risk of costly snags and damage during operation.

“We are really passionate about this business,” said Marcotte. “Any time we can work with one of our customers to create a new way for them to succeed with their operation, it’s a good day here at Brandt.”

Alternate attachments

There are a broad range of other attachments available for contractors who are digging at depth. When working on foundations in today’s urban environments, telescopic attachments are becoming more popular, allowing the operator to excavate deep within the pit.

Italian company Cosben, for example, has sent a number of its telescoping clamshell attachments to Canada for work on urban jobsites.

Attached in the place of the excavator stick, these attachments are designed to improve productivity on challenging excavation projects.

The arm is designed using a combination of rope and hydraulic cylinders, allowing it to telescope out and then retract with a full load smoothly and quickly, according to Cosben.

An additional counterweight, placed between the machine and original counterweight, helps to balance off the heavier front without changing the appearance of the excavator.

Multiple wire ropes help keep the arm in place in the case of a rope break, boosting safety near the ma-

Brandt Equipment Solutions can transform a standard excavator into a long-reach machine to the customer’s specifications.

A Cosben telescoping clamshell attachment on the job in Toronto. chine. Alarms including buzzers and indicator lights keep the operator advised of potential issues, such as a rope break or overextension, or excessive pressure on the extension once the clamshell has reached ground.

Cosben explained that visibility is another key safety factor, and that it offers a camera solution that lets the

operator see what's happening at the bottom of the attachment.

Whether it’s an attachment, a conversion or a factory purchase, adding reach to an excavator can be an important way for contractors to expand their offerings – or meet very specific needs with a versatile and productive machine. HEG

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C&D RECYCLING

C&D PROCESSING OPERATION RELIES ON LIEBHERR FLEET

Ecowaste is transforming its business steadily thanks to half-a-dozen Liebherr machines

By Keith Barker, Associate Editor

C

onstruction growth, both residential and industrial, has led to a growth in the need for construction and demolition recycling. Sorting the many materials that are part of the C&D process is meticulous, and much of it ends up landfilled. However, there’s a drive toward more recovery of those materials, and landfills are being replaced by materials recovery facilities (MRFs). That’s a challenge that, with the right heavy equipment tailored to the job at hand, one Richmond, B.C., company is tackling head-on.

Ecowaste is a privately owned, family-run operation that has been in the C&D landfill business for 50 years. The company currently operates on 330 acres in Richmond, with a small transfer station in nearby New Westminster. According to Christian Dietrich, GM of the company’s waste management division, one of the current goals is to transform from a company that is landfilling the bulk of the incoming mixed construction and demolition waste stream to one that landfills only about 20 percent.

Ecowaste collects the majority of its mixed demolition waste, consisting mainly of waste wood, via incoming trucks from privately run transfer stations in and around Vancouver, along with about 40 percent from construction site or residential remodelling bins.

They don’t accept drywall, but they do process concrete and asphalt using a Keestrack mobile crushing plant. Crushed materials are used mainly for internal road and infrastructure construction. Waste wood is turned into biofuel for various local businesses.

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Dietrich says that Ecowaste is currently in the permitting process for construction of an on-site C&D MRF with capacity for 250,000 tons of wood, metals and other valuable material from construction and demolition sources yearly, diverting 70–80 percent of that material from landfill. He expects this facility to be in place by 2023. A wood processing line using a large, slow-speed shredder, operating at the Richmond site, constitutes the beginning of this part of the business. The line produces biomass for waste-to-energy end markets and consists of about 20 percent of the total infrastructure planned for a fully equipped C&D MRF.

Comparing the options to find a single-source supplier

Since 2019, Ecowaste has brought online six Liebherr machines, including a bulldozer, two wheel loaders, two excavators and a dedicated material handler.

When Dietrich came to Ecowaste in 2018, there was a replacement schedule for equipment; from the start, as the one in charge of equipment purchases, he was intent on using one supplier for all of Ecowaste’s heavy equipment.

“I wanted to package everything together, not only for a potential discount, but when I first came here we had Cat, we had Kobelco, we had Kawasaki, Deere, we had just about everybody who made heavy equipment. I wanted to narrow it down to one, or maybe just a couple of different suppliers, so that when we had any problems, we could get the quick service we would need.

“I really had a need for four or five pieces of equipment. I needed a couple loading shovels [wheel loaders], a couple excavators and material handlers, and I

also needed a bulldozer.”

Dietrich and his colleagues at Ecowaste came up with a weighted scoring system to compare all potential machines, factoring in price, operating costs, technical specifications, after sales support, supplier experience, health and safety features, warranty and ergonomics.

“It wasn’t any one thing that stood out, or one aspect that we were looking at like fuel efficiency. We also scored suppliers on how many technicians they had available for servicing, and on spare parts availability. For equipment specific things, we looked at both fuel efficiency and overall weight.”

When Dietrich was pricing out wheel loaders, excavators and bulldozers, he had already internally narrowed the options down to a couple of different companies, noting that there are only a few different manufacturers that could offer the full range of machines he was looking for.

“For the material handler, there was only two other manufacturers, and for me it was fairly simple on who we were going to go with, due to my experience with Liebherr machines in Europe,” he says.

“But I had to keep in mind that we also needed bulldozers and front loaders, an excavator and the whole package.”

He recalls that there was only one unknown with Liebherr during their decision-making process.

While Ecowaste has been around for a while, the company was not very familiar with Liebherr machines, even though Dietrich was. “The one thing that we didn't really have with Liebherr was that [prior] experience to be able to score them for serviceability and aftersales support.”

Liebherr’s R926 LC excavator with rising cab feeding C&D waste wood into the shredding line at Ecowaste in Richmond, B.C.

With this in mind, after they took everything into account, and based on their scoring system results, they chose to go with Liebherr as a total package supplier. “It wasn’t actually even that close to be honest,” says Dietrich.

Ecowaste got its first Liebherr machine, a used 566 wheel loader in May 2019. The company then ordered a new LH 22 material handler, a second wheel loader (model 556), as well as a PR 736 bulldozer with a landfill package and a pair of excavators – an R926 LC (with a custom rising cab) and an R924, both fitted with waste grab attachments.

Now that Ecowaste is running Liebherr equipment, Dietrich says they’ve had a great experience with respect to serviceability and after purchase support. “They're doing really well,” he says. “I've talked to their service managers who were great, and their technicians that come out are great and super professional.” He continues, “Sometimes you get a guy in the area, and it feels like they're learning on the job at our expense. They're a bit rough around the corners, whereas [the guys] that come out to service us from Liebherr, I get the feeling from them that they see this as their career, and they're quite professional when they come out.

It's been a great experience so far.”

Christian Dietrich, GM of Ecowaste’s waste management division, and Shaun Salmon, site foreman, with their Liebherr 566 wheel loader. material handler, Dietrich is looking forward to acquiring a Liebherr telehandler. In 2020, Liebherr introduced its first telehandler models in Canada. This will allow Dietrich to stick with his goal of buying all his heavy equipment from one supplier.

“In 12 to 24 months, I’d like to get one,” he says. “It would be used in our public drop-off area or our tipping

areas where we’re just pushing material around, and where pedestrian safety is really important, because you can see a lot better in those machines and they are more compact than with a wheel loader. It’s just a smaller footprint. You get into areas that big loaders can’t.”

He adds that in Europe, community recycling depots use telehandlers with great success.

“If [the Liebherr telehandler] was available for us last year, I probably would have bought one instead of a second wheel loader because it ticks more of the boxes that are important to us: a lower price point, more pedestrian-safe and lower running costs.

“There’s a lot of room for growth of material handlers and telehandlers in waste handling.” HEG

Looking forward to telehandlers

In addition to bringing in another

SEPTEMBER 2020

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AGGREGATES & QUARRIES

HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT SCREEN MEDIA FOR YOUR AGGREGATES APPLICATION

By Lee Toop, Editor

T

o maximize profit, aggregates producers need to ensure that the product they offer fits the needs of their customers, down to the size of the material they sell. Using the right equipment throughout the crushing and screening process is key to that goal.

One area that might not be as obvious to meeting that goal is the screening media that is used to sort those various end products. The fact is, though, that without that properly sized screen installed correctly and maintained well the final product may not pass inspection for the customer.

Choosing the right screening media is essential for any crushing and screening operation.

Every aggregates producer has a different need when it comes to their screening needs, and the range of products to fit those needs is broad. It’s important to understand the type of material that will pass over a screen to decide the best selection, according to experts from Metso Minerals.

Today’s screen media comes in several variations, from the popular wire mesh through engineered solutions like rubber and polyurethane, explained Product Manager Claes Larsson.

“The more traditional type of screen media is the woven wire mesh, which is used throughout really any industry from aggregates to portable equipment, and then you also have something that is growing in the industry today, more

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flexible wires which are crimped in zig-zag to form openings, and bonded with polyurethane strips to keep them together,” Larsson said.

Metso’s Trellex PCL screen media, for example, uses treated and coated wire bonded to polyurethane strips to increase wear life and help reduce plugging issues that can increase maintenance needs. It, and similar wire cloth screens, is installed using tension hooks that connect the material to the sidewalls of the machine.

A screening deck may use several different sizes of media to help in efficient material movement.

Molded polyurethane and rubber products are a step up from wire cloth, and useful for reducing some potential issues such as blinding, or clogging up of fine openings.

“If you have large rocks or bigger sizes, rubber mats could be preferred; if you’re wet screening, the lifetime of wire mesh is kind of short, so that is where polyurethane can come in as well,” Larsson said. “Rubber and polyurethane products come in different shapes, and as well there’s a growing segment in the market for modular media where the material comes in a standardized size.”

Modular screen media can be changed quickly as needed, with a variety of shapes and styles available.

>> SEPTEMBER 2020

Injection molding of polyurethane and rubber modules has provided the ability to make much broader types and sizes of media for installation in a range of screens, and provides the ability to work with different OEM installation methods and maintenance needs.

Size of operation, type of material and other factors often influence the type of media that an aggregates business will select, noted Metso Engineering Manager Travis Schoultz.

“Some smaller suppliers need to be more money conscious, and the less expensive way to go is the woven wire type method, while larger operations might opt for the rubber or polyurethane solutions that are typically a little more expensive,” Schoultz said. “The application itself can determine what media is best for the environment or use – sometimes you’re looking for more open area and that may lead you to a wire woven solution. . . that helps the media stay clean. If the application is wet or sticky it may push them in that direction.”

Wire and rubber are good in wet or sticky applications as the material moves energetically with the screen, allowing it to dislodge material that might begin to plug openings while allowing the desired product to fall through. Higher throughput operations might find polyurethane a better choice, while screening of abrasive materials can best be done with rubber media. Knowing what the best choice is can often come down to expertise.

“It’s a good idea to get expert advice when you’re selecting your media, as you go through a particular site or project – it’s helpful to talk to someone with plenty of knowledge,” Schoultz said.

Skilled plant operators will have their own knowledge of how different products function, but there are often times when the conditions may change and something different is needed; consulting with a dealer or other expert is always a good step, Larsson said.

Maintenance is another area in which the choice of media can make a difference; changing wire media can be a big challenge compared to polyurethane or rubber.

“If you have a screen with a wire cloth, that’s typically four feet long and six to eight feet wide – that can be a heavy piece of equipment that you might need a crane to lift out,” Larsson said. “If it’s a modular system, each module might weigh less than 10 pounds so one person can lift it.”

Modular rubber and polyurethane systems can be changed out in small segments where necessary, and products in the Metso line can be snapped in or out with ease – or take advantage of a new hammerless attachment system that uses special pins installed with a cordless drill for quick and easy changes. It’s much easier to change media in multi-deck screens when using modular systems as well.

Cutting maintenance costs and needs down can also be done using new technologies that have come to the market in recent years. Metso’s Screen Planner, for example, is an online tool that allows users to build and configure their screens, then track wear as inspections are completed. Electronic monitoring can also help with optimizing the performance of a screen and the media installed in it.

“What’s come into play more is optimization of the screen speed and stroke,” Schoultz said. “That’s done through electronic devices attached to the screen while it’s running; they can tell you the speed of the stroke or the range of motion of the screen, and allow you to optimize the machine based on the opening and other factors to get the best efficiency out of your media.”

All in all, there are many different factors that go into the right choice of media for any screening operation. Every one is different, and taking advantage of expert knowledge is always a good approach to finding the right solution.

“Different OEMs have different approaches, different lengths, different insight between the walls of the screen, and those are all things that we need to keep track of,” Larsson said. “It’s a complex world.” HEG

MAJOR

HIGH-PERFORMANCE WIRE SCREEN IN VARIETY OF OPENING STYLES MAJOR FLEX-MAT high-performance wire screen is offered with opening styles for a variety of material applications. FLEX-MAT is offered in five styles to give producers options to improve efficiency and screening quality.

The D series (pictured) is the most commonly used style of FLEX-MAT. It features single wires in the standard FLEX-MAT pattern with square openings manufactured to precise 90-degree angles and can be used to replace square opening woven wire for precise and accurate sizing of material while improving screening capacity. The style prevents elongated material from passing through the screens and eliminates blinding and pegging. The style is available in tensioned and modular setups.

The DD series helps producers with high-impact, heavy-material applications who still need a large amount of open area. The style features double wires and offers durability without sacrificing productivity and screening performance. The DD series also eliminates the “popcorn effect,” which causes larger rocks bouncing higher than smaller ones on the vibrating screen, sometimes caused by single wire screen media. Operations can see as much as three times more wear life than traditional woven wire and 50 percent more productivity compared to steel plate and rubber panels, MAJOR states. Producers can choose to add heavy-duty polyurethane strips for added durability.

The S series is ideal for low-impact and low-weight round or cubical shaped material, as well as for instances when precise passing is not required.

It is also effective for sticky material.

The style features an opening range from 0.059 – 2 inches (1.5 – 50.8 millimetres). The S series is recommended in applications where it is important to remove fines and output a clean product on top of the screen, or when elongated material is not a concern.

The T series is for fine screening with openings under 0.059 inches (1.5 mm). The style prevents the blinding, pegging, lack of efficiency and poor wear life seen in fine mesh. Featuring more open area than fine mesh, T series wires improve stratification and increases wear life. Producers can purchase the style in tensioned and modular sections.

The L series is available for ten-

sioned media and is suitable for producers working in natural sand applications and with sticky materials. The style offers a variety of opening ranges, starting at as small as 0.031 inches (0.8 mm). The L series helps prevent blinding while also improving production rates.

To improve wear life, MAJOR manufactures all FLEX-MAT with polyurethane strips holding the wires together rather than the plastic strips or woven wire seen in other designs.

Opening sizes stay consistent for the life of the wires because the polyurethane strips last longer than the wires. MAJOR also offers overlaps and side seals to use in conjunction with FLEX-MAT for enhanced screening performance.

SEPTEMBER 2020

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 31

AGGREGATES & QUARRIES

FEEDER STACKER BOOSTS MATERIAL HANDLING

M

cCloskey International has introduced a new feeder stacker to its lineup – the SF50 – designed to be one of the most productive and portable products in its category. Versatile in its use across industries, the SF50 Feeder Stacker facilitates

the handling and stockpiling of materials including, but not limited to, aggregates, coal, C&D waste, sand and gravel, topsoil, and compost.

All can be fed into the hopper with large loaders and excavators, combining the efficiency of a high-capacity hopper with a stacking conveyor.

Variable speed prevents material from building up, allowing for more controlled flow of material.

The track mobility of the SF50 ensures the machine is versatile on site. When moving siteto-site, the SF50 can be compacted for transport on a low loader, or loaded in a 40-foot cube container, reducing costs and logistics.

The SF50 is available in a variety of power

options, including dual power, diesel/hydraulic, electric/hydraulic, diesel electric and diesel with genset.

Key features of the SF50 include a 50-footlong main conveyor with a 40-foot-wide belt. A hydraulic folding heading section facilitates transport and reduces set-up time. Users can hydraulically adjust discharge height up to 6.5 metres.

The unit is designed with 3.5-metre tracks, offering superior maneuverability and stability, and features a hydraulics system that is fuel efficient and user friendly. The SF50 is powered by a Cat 2.8 55-kW/74-hp engine, and can produce up to 500 tons per hour.

FRONTLINE EXPANDS AGGREGATES SOLUTIONS WITH CEDARAPIDS LINE

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>> SEPTEMBER 2020

NOUVE OPTIM AU ISÉ

ith flagship locations in Chilliwack, British Columbia, and Woodstock, Ontario, Frontline Machinery was recently named the dealer for the Cedarapids lines of portable and modular aggregates processing equipment for British Columbia. According to Crissy Ram, senior director, marketing and business development with Frontline, Frontline’s strong presence and growth in the Canadian aggregates market and the successful relationship with another Terex equipment brand helped build the opportunity to bring Cedarapids into the fold.

“We have been working with Terex since the launch of CBI, their line of horizontal wood grinders, which was brought to us a couple of years ago – we’ve had some major successes with the product line and working with their team,” Ram described. “CBI and Cedarapids are two different portfolios, so we won’t see a lot of crossover, but our success with CBI helped build this new relationship.”

Frontline will be representing wheel-mounted portable Cedarapids units as well as the manufacturer’s modular offerings, which are usually found in stationary or high-capacity operations.

“Cedarapids’ modular solutions are pre-engineered and pre-built crushing and screening solutions. They are designed to operate on a smaller footprint and have low civil engineering and operating costs,” Ram explained.

“These standard, pre-designed solutions are fast, offer easy on-site assembly and have minimal wiring requirements. Plus, the modules and components can be easily transported.”

Frontline is excited to add the Cedarapids portable and modular line to its existing line of Keestrack mobile crushing and screening equipment, as it means the company can now offer a variety of aggregates solutions.

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COMPACT EQUIPMENT

TAKEUCHI EXPANDS EARTHMOVING LINEUP

T

akeuchi has added the TB225 excavator and updated the TL8R compact track loader (now the TL8R2) in its earthmoving lineup.

TB225 compact excavator

The brand-new TB225 features all-steel construction and has an operating weight of 4,993 pounds, a dig depth of 8 feet 5.5 inches, maximum reach of 14 feet 4.2 inches and a bucket breakout force of 4,339 pounds. The undercarriage retracts from 59 to 43.3 inches, allowing the machine to easily navigate jobsites with limited access.

The automatic fuel priming system, auto deceleration and dual element air cleaner, which are standard features for the 19.6-hp Tier 4 Final Yanmar engine, ensure optimal efficiency.

Standard features includes an LCD multi-informational display, automatic load sensing two-speed travel, pilot-operated joystick controls, and a backfill blade with pin-on extensions.

The operator’s station features a ROPS/TOPS/OPG protective structure, along with a suspension seat and adjustable arm rests. The large floor with integrated foot rests and ergonomically designed pilot controls keep the operator comfortable. The 2-inch

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retractable seatbelt, and engine safe start/pilot lockout system further enhance safety.

TL8R2 compact track loader

The all-new redesigned radial lift TL8R2 offers a tipping load of 6,041 pounds with an operating weight of 9,182 pounds (cab) or 8,807 pounds (canopy). Rated operating capacity is 2,116 pounds and 2,314 pounds when equipped with the optional counterweight kit.

This CTL is powered by a 74.3-hp turbocharged Kubota engine with DOC and DPF. Creep Mode is a standard feature on the TL8R2 models equipped with high-flow auxiliary hydraulics.

This feature will enable operators to precisely match the forward speed of the track loader to a particular attachment without having to constantly meter the travel lever. The creep mode function is ideal for attachments that require a consistent, repeatable travel speed, such as a cold planer and trencher.

The fully redesigned operator’s station features a 5.7-inch multi-informational colour display with a now-standard rear view camera and a sealed rocker switch bank that helps improve performance and function-

>> SEPTEMBER 2020

ality by providing the operator with a wider range of operational information. Other standard equipment includes low-effort pilot controls and proportional auxiliary switches to give the operator the precision needed to work more efficiently.

Better overhead door performance with an improved latching and release system reduces noise and vibration with the door up during machine operation.

According to Takeuchi Product Manager Lee Padgett, ride quality is

greatly improved over the TL8R with a fully redesigned quiet ride track and undercarriage system. This new undercarriage design features rubber contact track pads that greatly reduce noise and vibration, double- and triple-flange track rollers that greatly reduce the risk of de-tracking, and a rigid-mount, sloped undercarriage frame that makes cleaning much easier. In addition, the hydraulic drive lines to the travel motors are now internally routed for greater protection from dirt and debris.

POWR2

MOBILE SOLAR POWER SOLUTION Because of the bulky nature and relative fragility of solar panels it's typically difficult to effectively deploy solar systems quickly. Ground-mounted ballasted systems are cost effective but take up a lot of space and require time-consuming installation and wiring.

POWR2’s 12-panel solar trailer for use in conjunction with its POWRBANK Renewable Power System can produce between 3 and 5 kw of DC power depending on the panels used. This is stored in high-density lithium batteries and turned into 120/240v single phase or 208v 3 phase AC power.

The solar trailer takes just three minutes to set up and is an excellent source of clean, renewable energy.

If needed, a small generator can also be mounted on the bed of the trailer for days when there is cloud cover, or if additional power is needed, and solar trailers can be put together in series to increase the solar yield.

The solar trailer meets the need of contractors, event managers, oilfield service companies and many other industries looking to provide clean, environmentally friendly power.

The batteries when hooked up to the solar array require no ongoing maintenance.

WE KEEP

HONDA

POWERFUL GENERATOR WITH 10,000W OUTPUT

With a maximum output of 10,000 watts, the Honda EB10000 generator is compact and features a narrow-shaped design; a centralized exhaust mechanism; a newly developed alternator; and excellent fuel efficiency and low noise levels. The Industrial Series model is well-suited for commercial applications, including construction-related jobsite work, as well as the rental market. The EB10000 is powered by the Honda GX630 V-twin engine.

The Digital Auto Voltage Regulator (DAVR) is an exclusive Honda feature that holds the voltage stable within one percent over time during standard operation. The generator also includes the i-Monitor digital operation system (with lighting). The operator can easily see the state of the conditions being monitored: total used hours, generating voltage (when error detected), battery condition, Oil Alert, and an AVR (auto voltage regulator) error code. The generator also has a one-touch, removable plastic top cover allowing for easy battery access and maintenance.

Noise levels are approximately 73 decibels at 23 feet.

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SEPTEMBER 2020

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 35

COMPACT EQUIPMENT ASV

NEW LOADER SERIES DESIGNED FOR SAFETY AND COMFORT ASV has launched the MAX-Series loaders, which feature a new, next generation cab that offers 360-degree visibility, a more spacious operator area, a fully adjustable seat, new touchscreen display, a roof escape hatch and more.

Initial models include the RT-65, VT-70 High Output, RT-75 and RT-75 Heavy-Duty, which will replace the machines with the same model number.

The MAX-Series cab features a new fully suspended seat with adjustable recline, slide, weight and four-way armrest settings that make it accessible to virtually all body types.

A new one-sided lap bar frees space around the operator’s waist and also makes entry and exit easier. Operators will also have more breathing room and the ability to stretch. The roomier cab offers up to 2 more inches width at the shoulders, is up to 8 inches wider at the knees and has up to 4.5 inches more foot room.

The highly pressurized, all-weather cab’s improved seal allows it to stay quieter and more resistant to outside dust and debris, while circulation and defrosting capabilities are improved with an updated HVAC system.

The new cab provides maximum visibility with a floor to ceiling glass area made possible by all clear sides and a frameless door. This gives the operator 52 percent more glass area in the optional enclosed cab compared to previous ASV models. That allows for 360-degree visibility with minimal obstructions to the operator’s line of sight, providing a better view of the attachment and surroundings.

Visibility is further improved with standard LED lighting and optional side lighting.

The optional new 7-inch touchscreen display includes all vital monitoring tools, provides a view of the backup camera and integrates with service history and schedules, such as engine oil changes and other maintenance needs. Passcode operator lockout is also available.

A new dual throttle option allows operators to operate at a set RPM with joystick controls and increase the RPM with the foot throttle without needing to adjust the dial.

Forestry-type features, such as Heavy-Duty guarding, are available options for all models. Previously the option was only available on the RT-75 Heavy-Duty and RT-120 Forestry. The configuration includes metal guarding against brush and debris around key areas, such as lights, the AC condenser and rear screen. Customers can also choose to include a factory-installed full rear brush guard, as well as a heavy-gauge, falling object protective structure (FOPS) level 2 cab.

In addition to the improved visibility, the machines include the industry’s first compact loader roof escape hatch, allowing operators to get out quickly in emergency situations. Models also include rollover protection (ROPS) and reinforced windows for impact resistance.

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>> SEPTEMBER 2020

RENTAL FOCUS

ELECTRIC EXCAVATORS HAVE RENTAL HOUSE CHARGED UP

Cooper Equipment Rentals sees electric opportunity in Canadian rental market

By Kaitlyn Till, Editor in Chief

W

hen Rod Lentino, rental fleet manager at Cooper Equipment Rentals, first saw the JCB 19C-1E electric excavator at The Rental Show in February 2019, he knew he had to have the first one in North America. This was an opportunity to broaden the company’s product offering and capture new business by addressing customer pain points that didn’t have easy or cost-effective solutions.

Cooper Equipment Rentals received North America’s first two JCB electric excavators in summer 2019.

One was put to work in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), where the company has the largest coverage of branches and there is lots of opportunity for these machines to be used in renovation and interior work, and the other went to Vancouver.

“We tend to get asked by our customers for unique solutions in these areas, and it’s usually a good testbed for those,” said Lentino.

Cooper Equipment Rentals now has six JCB electric models in its rental fleet: two in the GTA, two in Vancouver and two in northern Ontario.

According to Lentino, one of the things that they liked about the JCB excavator is that it is approved for underground use and passes safety requirements to meet Canadian standards. This has enabled Cooper Equipment Rentals to work with mining companies in northern Ontario where the JCB machine is used with breakers to recover ore from more delicate parts of older mines, such as pillars. The electric excavators are also ideal for carrying out minor cleanup of debris underground.

In Vancouver, one of the first applications for the machine was installing moving sidewalks in the Vancouver International Airport. The JCB machine, along with a battery-powered wheelbarrow, was used

to break up the concrete, install the mechanism and then redo the surface.

What to know before renting

According to Lentino, range anxiety is the main concern of anyone renting an electric machine. They want to know how long it can work.

“We’ve turned to the manufacturers for that because they’ve done a lot of studies, they’ve done a lot of the cycle work, and they’ve compared the duty cycle.”

According to JCB, the equivalent 2-ton diesel-powered excavator typically works half of the time of a normal work day, so if a day is eight hours, the excavator is working for four hours. The rest of the time is spent idling or turned off, therefore the electric excavator needs to be able to run for four hours. If a customer needs the machine to run for longer, it can be plugged in during off time, such as during a lunch break.

There is also a learning curve to operating one of these machines, Lentino noted. An operator used to working on a diesel machine will turn the key and expect to hear the machine start up. “We’ve had a call or two related to that,” he said.

New technology leads to new opportunities

The latest technology always comes with a premium price tag, and electric excavators are no different. They cost roughly double the diesel-equivalent machine to purchase and command a higher rental rate than a diesel machine. However, Lentino noted several advantages that make the investment worthwhile for Cooper Equipment Rentals and its customers.

The first advantage is that Cooper Equipment Rentals can rent out these machines year-round in Canada’s colder areas. Once the ground freezes, there isn’t much work for diesel machines. During the winter months the electric machines can keep working indoors, increasing their utilization.

The second advantage is that these machines solve customer pain points – whether it’s reducing labour costs, a job that needs to be done indoors or underground, or winning a bid with environmental impact requirements.

“We see in these excavators an area where customers cannot do the same job. If you take into account the savings in fuel where customers have to pay for diesel fuel, they have to potentially pay for more manpower, because they may have to do the same job with two or three workers by hand, and it may take them longer than to do it with one operator in a shorter period of time,” said Lentino. “It’s more of a solution-based selling with these products.”

Electric presence in the rental space expected to grow

Lentino sees utilization of electric equipment in the rental space only increasing and noted that investment at Cooper Equipment Rentals is ongoing for several types of electric-powered equipment, including smaller tools, stand-on skid steers and forklifts. He is also watching further development in the battery-powered earthmoving equipment space.

“The whole goal of the battery-powered offering

by Cooper Equipment is to open up opportunities and have customers with pain points that haven’t been addressed come to us and say, ‘Hey, you guys have battery-powered excavators. What other kind of battery-powered stuff do you have? I have this application and I haven’t been able to find a solution.’ So we are trying to offer a broader product offering to be able to capture some of that unknown,” said Lentino.

“We see this as the future, as battery technology improves and runtime improves. Cooper Equipment wants to position itself as a leader in this area and to demonstrate that we can give them smarter equipment solutions than what was previously in the space.” HEG

SEPTEMBER 2020

>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 37

RENTAL FOCUS

UNITED RENTALS’ SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR EQUIPMENT RENTALS U nited Rentals has shared nine key protocols as a response to COVID-19.

“Now, more than ever, construction and industrial companies are looking for assurance from partners that business is being conducted in the safest possible way,” said Antwan Houston, director of operations preparedness for United

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Rentals. “In early March, we prioritized the development of guidelines to ensure safe, continuous operations for our internal teams and customers. This playbook has been operationalized companywide, with the flexibility to adapt to a fast-changing environment.”

The new protocols are:

Contactless and worksite protocols

• Drive-up service and designated drop zones: United Rentals offers contactless drive-up service that lets customers pick up or drop off equipment in designated areas without going inside the branch.

• Last-touch disinfecting: United Rentals drivers disinfect commonly touched surfaces upon delivering equipment at a worksite. This is the second time equipment is disinfected before it is put in the customer’s hands (see Pre-Rental Disinfecting below).

• Driver precautions: United Rentals drivers maintain safe social distancing at customer sites and wear a mask when safe distancing is not possible.

• Digital capabilities: Customers of United Rentals can browse equipment, schedule rentals and designate equipment off-rent from their computer or mobile app for a contactless transactional experience. This enhances safe access to the industry’s largest rental fleet of construction, industrial and specialty solutions.

In-branch protocols

• Pre-rental disinfecting: In addition to performing safety and mechanical checks, United Rentals disinfects equipment before each rental, paying particular attention to controls, latches, seat belts and other high-touch surfaces.

• Social distancing: United Rentals personnel maintain safe social distancing at branches and equipment yards, delineated by floor decals.

• Plexiglass counter barriers: United Rentals branches have installed plexiglass barriers at service counters to provide added protection during in-person transactions.

• Personal protective equipment (PPE): United Rentals requires face coverings where social distancing cannot be achieved, and requires additional PPE as needed. The company provides PPE to its employees and, where available, to customers who need it to enter the branch.

• Communications: United Rentals has a strong communications infrastructure that delivers consistent safety messaging across its more than 1,160 branches. Protocols are emphasized at daily safety huddles with branch teams.

In addition, periodic employee town halls reinforce top-down safety messaging, and constant input from branch and district managers ensure that local conditions are taken into account.

EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE & MANAGEMENT

LIEBHERR

REMOTE SERVICE TOOL Liebherr has developed a remote service tool for crawler cranes, deep foundation equipment and maritime cranes. This improves assistance through visual information and leads to faster and easier troubleshooting. As part of an extended test phase, all customers will have free access to the new app until the end of 2020.

The tool includes audio and video calls, a chat function, screen sharing, image and document exchange, as well as whiteboarding functions.

These enable real-time, fast and effective customer support from Liebherr experts worldwide.

Liebherr has tested the tool in remote locations and challenging situations in order to meet and adapt to customer requirements.

According to Liebherr, external factors such as the current pandemic make tools such as this indispensable to operations.

VMAC PARTNERS WITH CAT TO POWER 6-IN-1 MULTIFUNCTION POWER SYSTEM

I

n 2016, Cat dealer Finning approached VMAC with a special request: Finning wanted the manufacturer to modify its 6-in1 multifunction power system to use a Cat engine. VMAC’s multipower system includes a rotary screw air compressor, generator, welder, battery booster/charger and PTO with optional hydraulic pump.

“The existing power system was already popular with Finning mechanics who used it to service heavy equipment for customers. However, Finning mechanics naturally are more familiar and comfortable with Cat engines and prefer those over competing engines,” said Mike Pettigrew, VMAC’s marketing manager. “That’s what led to this new request.”

The two organizations had a long history of collaborating together. “Finning has been one of our most valued and trusted partners over the past two decades. Their needs have heavily influenced our R&D priorities and product demands,” Pettigrew said.

“We enjoy working with Finning to develop innovative air compressor products that meet their service mechanics’ evolving needs. Also, people in our industry follow what Caterpillar is doing.

We know that when Caterpillar or a Cat dealer is asking for something, others are likely to start asking for it, too.”

Finning connected VMAC with Caterpillar’s engineering team to jumpstart the exploratory process. The Cat dealer also facilitated an application review of the VMAC multifunction design to ensure that Cat engine operating specifications were met.

After the review was complete, Caterpillar provided engine recommendations. Ultimately, the Cat C1.1 Industrial Engine was determined to be the best match. “The C1.1 was the optimal fit and form to meet our overall product dimensional requirements,”

said Pettigrew, who emphasized that the engine’s ultra-compact size was important to VMAC. The company looks to reduce size with all of its product designs while also still providing powerful performance.

Noise reduction was another important consideration. That’s because air compressors tend to produce noise at high decibel (dB) levels. In fact, the Finning team had expressed interest in getting a quieter product from VMAC, and the C1.1 made that possible: it utilizes lower engine speeds, which helps reduce noise better than other small industrial engines.

“From 21 feet, our traditional multi-

function power system produces 81.2 dB at high idle and 76 dB at low idle,” Pettigrew explained. “In comparison, the newer system with the Cat C1.1 engine produces 74.25 dB at high idle and 69.75 dB at low idle. Reducing noise by more than six decibels helps protect workers’ hearing and creates safer jobsites.”

Pettigrew noted that his company is happy with the results. “This was a positive experience for VMAC. The Cat C1.1 engine allows us to provide a reliable, quiet and durable product – one with high performance, a compact package size and optimized fuel efficiency.”

DIVERSE APPLICATIONS ONE STRONG PARTNER Great performance starts with a great foundation. PALFINGER is the pioneer when it comes to high quality manufacturing, design, and industry leading features.

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SEPTEMBER 2020

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>> www.heavyequipmentguide.ca 39

EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE & MANAGEMENT EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE & MANAGEMENT

HOW TO MAINTAIN HYBRID AERIAL EQUIPMENT

By Zach Gilmor

T

he idea and purpose of hybrid machines have not really changed since their introduction, but the execution of these machines has evolved significantly along with the technology that powers them. Many of today’s hybrid MEWPs can offer the flexibility to be dropped onto an unimproved jobsite before a structure is built and then move indoors for finish work. This flexibility is what makes owning and operating these machines so attractive for rental stores and contractors. Many rental owners of hybrid equipment are also realizing the total cost of ownership benefits that come from a well-designed hybrid system.

Saying the word “hybrid” can create anxiety in service technicians who are more familiar with diesel-powered machines. Right now, there still seems to be a certain amount of fear of the unknown associated with the maintenance of hybrid systems.

Admittedly, at the surface, the overall design concept of today’s

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hybrid aerial equipment, which is aimed at powerful performance with a smaller engine, may seem counterintuitive. However, digging a little deeper into the individual machine components, service technicians will

notice many similarities to diesel- and electric-powered counterparts, finding them to be simple machines to maintain. Service technicians will also notice some components that even reduce the need for maintenance.

The engine compartment of a Genie Z-60/37FE hybrid boom lift.

>> SEPTEMBER 2020

Hybrid system maintenance

Surprisingly, hybrid equipment is often simpler, and easier to maintain than other machines. Even though hybrids may sound like they would be more complex to maintain, they are actually developed by packaging together simple, existing technologies in a new way – today’s hybrid equipment design and technology is fundamentally based on electric machines. For example, on Genie FE (fuel-electric) hybrid MEWPs, the drive systems and controls come from electric rough-terrain scissors, and the simple, mechanically controlled engines are taken from smaller boom lifts.

Because of the commonality of components, the similarities between hybrid and diesel-powered lifts include basic engine and hydraulic system maintenance, such as regular checks and changing of engine oil, filters, hoses and so on, per the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines.

And similarities with electric-powered lifts include routine battery maintenance, electrical component inspections and so on, according to the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines.

Because much of the equipment in today’s aerial and rental fleets are electric machines, service technicians are often more familiar with the internal make-up and components of electric machines compared to diesel machines, which makes maintenance tasks on hybrid equipment less daunting.

It is important to note that a very small number of new components – for example, the hybrid system clutch – are specific to hybrid units; however, none of these components requires any special maintenance, as long as owners and operators are following the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines for safe use and preventive care of these MEWPs.

Charging system maintenance

Aside from regular inspection and routine checks of a MEWP’s electrical connections and wiring, per the manufacturer’s specifications, often no other maintenance is required on a hybrid machine’s charging system.

Even AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries, which are standard on all Genie FE hybrid models, are sealed and maintenance-free. Genie chose AGM batteries for its hybrid solution, in part, because these do not require the added maintenance for checking/ topping off the flooded lead acid batteries found on other hybrid and electric models, further reducing shop time. And, these batteries are not proprietary to Genie with hard-to-source parts when maintenance is required, saving money.

Drive system maintenance

Like maintenance checks on the hybrid system, regular maintenance of hybrid MEWP drive systems is very similar to diesel-powered machines.

For instance, hub maintenance is essentially equivalent between the two types of machines, and inspections of electrical wiring and connections typically replace those of hydraulic motors and lines on diesel machines.

Special maintenance considerations

It important to note that not all hybrids are created equal. That said, as Genie was designing its FE hybrid technology, ease of service was one of the most significant requirements from customers. Responding to that need, the Genie FE hybrid system was designed around existing technology, packaged in a new way, so service technicians already have the skills and equipment necessary to service these hybrid MEWPs. In addition, today’s MEWPs are now intelligent enough to assist technicians with troubleshooting with features such as a platform display to display fault codes, ease sensor calibrations and set software options, which contributes to this hybrid system’s reputation in the field of being easy to service and maintain.

Maintenance is a commitment

The good operating condition and extended life expectancy of any MEWP – diesel-, electric- or hybrid-powered – is largely influenced by regular care and maintenance. Preventive maintenance is a commitment.

With more and more hybrid MEWPs showing up on jobsites, admittedly, at the surface, today’s hybrid technology can offer a revolutionary new approach in machine concept and design, increasing application versatility without sacrificing power or productivity, to traditional power options. But digging down into the design details of these modern hybrid systems, service technicians will find that these systems are built with many of the same components as existing diesel and electric-powered machines, plus include components that actually help to minimize maintenance and reduce time in the shop – all good reasons to shake the hybrid anxiety and keep these versatile machines in rental fleets.

Zach Gilmor is a Genie product manager at Terex AWP.

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ATTACHMENTS

PRINOTH VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

MULCHER ATTACHMENT FOR EXCAVATORS OFFERS “PLUG & MULCH” CONVENIENCE The M450e-1090 mulching attachment suits excavators from 8 to 15 tons, as well as other carrier vehicles with booms, up to maximum 90 hp. The power requirement of this mulcher is reduced by two-stage counter cutting at the material inlet, which prevents the rotor from being blocked if large pieces of wood are drawn in.

Thanks to the gear motors used in this model, no leakage oil line is required – it can be attached to any excavator boom without additional conversion measures.

Prinoth offers a complete range of mulchers for machines between 6 and 30 tons. Additional models include the M450e-900 for 6 to 12 tons, the M450e-1100 for 12 to 18 tons and the M550e-1300 for 18- to 30-ton excavators.

GRADALL

TELESTICK ATTACHMENT EXTENDS BOOM REACH TO 50 FEET

RIGHT-SIZED OPTIONS FOR EVERY JOBSITE

Gradall’s Telestick attachment for Series V excavators allows the boom on these machines to reach as much as 50 feet. Equipped with ditching, grading and dredging buckets as well as a grapple, the Telestick is ideal for cleaning canals, grading and shaping the edges of drainage ditches. cleaning out culverts and removing debris after severe storms and flooding.

The Telestick is ideal for XL 5100V and XL 4100V model excavators with highway speed undercarriages, as well as XL 5200V models on crawler undercarriages designed to operate on very rough terrain. With a Telestick, XL 5000V Series machines are able to reach out 50 feet, while XL 4000V Series models have a 45-foot reach.

Gradall’s high-pressure, load-sensing hydraulic system efficiently powers the entire boom movement as it reaches across waterways, deep into ponds and canals, and tilts 220 degrees to address slopes and reach under bridges and into tunnels.

The Telestick can be installed in less than 30 minutes using the standard boomend bucket adapter and two pins. Installation requires no lifting, and because it can be attached and removed quickly, the versatile excavators can be used for both standard and long-reach jobs in a single day.

All hydraulic tubing and hoses are located safely inside the triangular boom and an operator can easily attach hydraulic hoses to put extra power and productivity at the Gradall excavator boom end.

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>> SEPTEMBER 2020

The GDT 590 is the largest Razer Demolition Tool in the company’s lineup, which now consists of four models.

Featuring a lighter-weight design, the GDT Razer is optimized to fit on standard and most high-reach excavators and extends the minimum excavator weight to 120,000 pounds, up from the 45,000, 66,000 and 90,000 pound minimum excavator weights of the GDT 190, 290 and 390.

The GDT 590 Razer is designed for general and bridge demolition, concrete recycling and C&D processing. It has a 52-inch jaw opening, 46.5-inch jaw depth and over 12-foot reach.

The GDT’s upper jaw passes through its lower jaw which has an open relief area that allows material to easily pass through and prevents jamming.

All GDT models feature a short flat-top head with bolt-on bracket that simplifies installation and switching the Razer between excavators, customizable quantities and locations of crushing teeth, and interchangeable and front-to-back reversible bolt-on teeth for longer life and lower operating costs.

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MACHINE CONTROL

NEXT-GENERATION TELEMATICS PLATFORM IS MORE INTUITIVE AND EASIER TO USE

By Lee Toop, Editor

C

ASE equipment owners have been able to take advantage of the SiteWatch telematics platform on their machines since its introduction in 2013. Now, a new generation of SiteWatch is bringing easier navigation and more intuitive operation to help users gather and use data about their operations faster and more efficiently.

SiteWatch users can benefit from an all-new dashboard that provides easier, more intuitive navigation, as well as more sections that provide overviews of critical data in an easier to track down location that means less time lost searching.

“Telematics data from construction equipment only helps if it’s easy to engage with and easy to understand when it’s presented to you,” said Richie Snyder, product marketing manager for construction equipment digital and precision solutions and telematics with CASE. “The new CASE SiteWatch telematics platform presents users with a high level of critical data on a very clear and intuitive dashboard, and then puts all critical machine and performance data within just a click or two, whether you’re at your desk or on your tablet in the field.”

SiteWatch is designed to help make fleet management easier for owners, who can keep track of where every machine in their fleet is at any given time, what it is doing and if it requires any kind of maintenance or service.

The benefits to use of a telematics system like SiteWatch are numerous; for example, owners can look at what their equipment is doing as well as across key periods of time, which means they can see when their machines are being used efficiently or not. If there’s a need for a particular machine on one job, for example, the fleet manager can look at SiteWatch and determine if there’s another machine elsewhere that could fill that gap rather than spending money on a rental.

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GUIDE

>> SEPTEMBER 2020

2020-01-31 12:02:17 PM

Snyder walked through the new system during its recent online launch. From the login screen through the various options inside, the new SiteWatch is intended to be easy to move through.

“Whether you’re a dealer logging in through the dealer portal or a customer logging in through case.com you will see a new site,” Snyder says. “There’s a brand-new dashboard and much easier drop-down menus – it’s a lot easier to pull some very important information that can improve the intelligence level of your equipment and operation.”

The new SiteWatch landing page provides a quick snapshot of a user’s fleet, with a brief summary of machines, a maintenance status panel, a search interface that allows for identification of where machines are worldwide, a fuel status chart and, central to the page, a display of the most recent alarms.

Snyder says the maintenance tab provides a quick snapshot of the machines in the user’s fleet and offers a pie chart glimpse as to which machines are overdue for maintenance, as well as which tasks are in progress.

“You can also list the machines, get a full view of the engine hours and hours before next service, then show them on the map and can dispatch a service truck,” he described.

A variety of reports are available from drop-down menus that make navigation much easier, and the reports are easier to read. In addition, once the user has made a selection of machines to review in a specific time frame, the system keeps those parameters as the user goes from report to report, rather than needing a restart each time.

Precise information is available in each tab, Snyder pointed out; for example, in the fuel consumption tab SiteWatch can provide a breakdown of what each machine was doing when it was burning fuel. Knowing whether the fuel use came during work or while the machine was idle can be helpful in operator training or to optimize use.

The system can schedule reports based on

the user’s needs, Snyder pointed out. Users can set the frequency of reports, the type of report needed, and which pieces of equipment should be included.

“The most important part of telematics is who gets the data,” he said. “Once we set up a notification group, you can select who gets those emails, and on what basis, weekly or monthly.”

The more eyes that an operation can get on its telematics data, the better, Snyder said.

“Any data that you can pull from any kind of telematics is very important for understanding how to better operate your business,” he added.

Real-time alerts are also a key part of SiteWatch, providing immediate notice when there’s an issue within the fleet. If a machine requires attention right away, alerts go out to the right people at the right time. Geofences can also be placed on machines to ensure that they don’t wander off; if a geofence is breached, owners know immediately.

Using telematics to track a variety of data gives owners the chance to analyze previous jobs, which helps to improve new bids thanks to a greater knowledge of equipment operation, use and costs. SiteWatch also holds on to data for up to 18 months, which means users can review machine usage on different jobs and sites, another way to help shape new bids as they come in.

In addition, historical data can be invaluable when machines are sold, Snyder noted.

“The information and data you can access through SiteWatch is another verification of how the machine was operated during its life,” he said.

SiteWatch also helps build maintenance relationships with local dealers. Users can allow their CASE dealers access to their telematics data, which helps those maintenance partners be more proactive on preventive maintenance and service plans. The ability to plan maintenance scheduling, monitor machine parameters and catch any potential issues can be invaluable for fleet managers. HEG

HIGHLIGHTS

ADVERTISER INDEX Ahern Canada.................................................. 31

FROM >> HeavyEquipmentGuide.ca

Antraquip Corporation.................................... 29 Buffalo Turbine................................................ 45 Camso........................................................ 24–25

PICKUP UPDATE

CASE Construction Equipment.................... 2–3 Dominion Equipment...................................... 35 Doosan Infracore North America................... 21 Easi-Pour......................................................... 44 Eberspächer.................................................... 41 Flo Components.............................................. 41 Frontline Machinery.......................................... 4 Genie – Terex Aerial........................................ 42 GOMACO......................................................... 48 John Deere Construction & Forestry............... 9

Charging ahead: a roundup of electric pickups on the horizon

Kubota Canada............................................... 23 LBX Company................................................. 15

TRENDING

Liebherr-Canada............................................... 5 Mack Trucks...................................................... 6 Manulift............................................................ 32 Metso:Outotec................................................ 47 Palfinger........................................................... 39 SANY Canada.................................................. 33 Takeuchi........................................................... 36 Trail King Industries, Inc................................. 38 Volvo Construction Equipment...................... 17 Weldco-Beales Mfg........................................ 41 World of Asphalt.............................................. 43

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MANUFACTURING UPDATE CANADIAN EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURERS FACE LONG ROAD BACK AFTER COVID-19 SURVEY INDICATES REDUCED DEMAND, SUPPLY CHAIN PROBLEMS AS KEY CONCERNS

By Lee Toop, Editor

A

new survey from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers indicates that Canadian equipment manufacturers have taken a hard blow from the COVID-19 crisis, and expect a long road ahead to get their businesses back to pre-pandemic levels.

The AEM survey shows that nearly half of the equipment manufacturers in Canada who participated in the survey expect it to take one year or more to recover from the impacts of COVID-19 shutdowns. More than three out of four respondents, or 76 percent, experienced a drop in demand for new orders during the pandemic. Fortythree percent said they had faced problems with their supply chains as a major impact.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has clearly impacted equipment manufacturers and the communities we proudly serve across Canada,” said Alexander Russ, director of Government Affairs for AEM. “From new orders drying up to supply chain disruptions, this unprecedented crisis has caused many companies to reduce their immediate financial outlook. AEM continues to help our

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HEAVY EQUIPMENT GUIDE

>> SEPTEMBER 2020

industry navigate these challenging times to come back stronger and fuel Canada’s economic recovery.”

The survey was conducted between June 22 and August 5, 2020, and connected with 24 respondents who discussed the effects on their industries, the economy and other areas of concern. Surveyed companies include AEM members who build or make equipment and parts for the agriculture, construction, forestry, utility and mining sectors.

Canadian manufacturers reported that beyond decreases in demand, key impacts to their businesses were employee absenteeism, a decline in their company’s financial situation, cancellation of current orders, and reduced employment levels through furloughs or layoffs.

An even split of respondents was recorded when asked about those using Canadian federal assistance programs, the survey showed.

Fifty percent have used or intend to use the programs. Of those, all said they would seek help from Canada’s Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS). Other programs being considered to help include Canada’s Work Sharing program, the Summer Jobs program, Deferral of Customs Duty and Sales Tax for

Importers, and Deferral of Taxes and GST/ HST Remittances.

Most respondents said it had been easy to use the Canadian federal assistance programs; 55 percent said accessing CEWS was easy, and 22 percent that it was relatively easy.

Sixty-five percent of manufacturers want the federal government to recognize the importance of Canadian manufacturing capacity; they want Ottawa to implement measures to increase competitiveness of the sector and reward innovation. More investment in infrastructure projects, including the federal portion of funding for provincial and municipal projects, was encouraged by 60 percent of respondents. A program to replace older equipment with new, lower-emission equipment through tax credits or government grants and loans was supported by 60 percent as well.

AEM has worked with the Canadian government throughout the pandemic to support Canadian manufacturers and ensure economic resilience within the industry.

The organization states it continues to call for action to incentivize further development of the equipment manufacturing industry in Canada. HEG

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