Pine Bush Equipment Group, Pacer, September 2018 by Construction Publications, Inc

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PINE BUSH EQUIPMENT EAST PBE

TOMPKINS EXCAVATING See how this family company from Putnam Valley, N.Y., achieves success with commercial, residential projects

(L-R) Tompkins Excavating President Stacey Tompkins, Secretary Mark Tompkins and their sons Michael, Justin and Kevin.

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A publication for and about PBE Group customers • www.PBEPacer.com • September 2018

A MESSAGE FROM PINE BUSH EQUIPMENT GROUP G R O U P

PINE BUSH EQUIPMENT EAST PBE

Steve Boniface, President

G R O Pine Bush Equipment has been a family owned and operated company U P since opening its doors in 1956 with a mission to provide the best products

Dear Valued Customer:

and services for our customers. With that in mind, we have decided to join PINE BUSH EQUIPMENT EAST PBE several Komatsu distributors throughout the region as part of Komatsu America’s distributorship. This unique opportunity will allow us to serve you in a greater capacity without compromising the values we were built upon.

Holly Bodnar, General Manager

One of the many benefits from the merger is our increased access to global resources, including new and used equipment and parts. Our sales and rental divisions can utilize area branches to provide equipment and attachments on short notice, while the service department is stocked with a greater variety of parts. We also want to emphasize that local faces will remain the same. From our service center to the rental department and upper management, business will continue as usual. Our commitment to help your business succeed will not change, because without you, we would not be in the position we are today.

Mark Hufcut, Holmes Branch Manager

This year also marks another important milestone – the five-year anniversary of Komatsu’s intelligent Machine Control introduction. The first-of-its-kind technology sets the bar for integrated GPS dozing. Komatsu has also added several other models to move dirt on a wide variety of jobsites. Operators can do the same with Komatsu’s intelligent Machine Control excavators. Four models are part of the family, including the PC210LCi-11. All are excellent for a host of applications. Read more about the excavators and dozers inside this issue of your PBE Pacer magazine. We are proud to represent such an innovative manufacturer. Komatsu’s technology is at the forefront of the construction industry, and the organization always looks for ways to give customers increased value.

Kevin Keroack, Newington Branch Manager

As always, if there’s anything we can do for you, please call or stop by one of our branch locations. Sincerely, PBE GROUP

Steve Boniface, President C i r c l e s

o f

Q u a l i t y

THE PRODUCTS PLUS THE PEOPLE TO SERVE YOU

G R O U P

PINE BUSH EQUIPMENT EAST PBE

PINE BUSH, NY 97 Route 302 Pine Bush, NY 12566 (845) 744-2006

IN THIS ISSUE TOMPKINS EXCAVATING

pg. 4

See how this family business plays a vital role in several large projects in the Putnam Valley, N.Y. area.

A CLOSER LOOK

pg. 8

Delve into the details surrounding updated OSHA regulations aimed at reducing silica dust exposure.

INDUSTRY OUTLOOK

pg. 11

Examine the optimism regarding how the new tax law may benefit the construction industry and its employees.

FIELD NOTES

pg. 14

See how one contractor improves efficiency using a Komatsu D51EXi dozer.

PRODUCT INTRODUCTION

pg. 17

Learn why Komatsu’s PC390LCi-11 excavator is a great fit for trenching or heavy-application work.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION

pg. 19

Review the history of Komatsu’s intelligent Machine Control technology five years after its debut.

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT

pg. 22

Check out the new PC238USLC-11 tight-tail-swing excavator that delivers outstanding lift capacity and the KomVision bird’s-eye-view camera system

CASE STUDY

pg. 25

Take a look at this case study showing how Komatsu’s Business Solutions Group helped one firm reduce fuel and maintenance costs.

PARTS NEWS

pg. 27

Learn about Komatsu’s plans to extend its General Construction Undercarriage options to also include dozer offerings.

AT YOUR SERVICE

Steve Boniface, President Holly Bodnar, General Manager Chris Dubois, Sales Manager Mike Buckridge, Parts Manager Carl Sherman, Rental Manager Sue Sherman, Service Manager

HOLMES, NY 24 Sybil Court Holmes, NY 12531 (845) 878-4004 Mark Hufcut, Branch Manager Chris Dubois, Sales Manager Joe Antonuccio, Rentals Manager Mike Crawford, Parts Manager Rob Cantisani, Service Manage

NEWINGTON, CT East PBE 283 Pane Road Newington, CT 06111 (860) 665-7470 Kevin Keroack, Branch Manager Alenna Hirleman, Assistant Rental Manager Suzanne Maldonado, Parts Manager Chris Dunn, Service Manager

PBE NAPA AUTO & TRUCK PARTS Pine Bush, NY – (845) 744-NAPA Holmes, NY – (845) 524-0960

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Komatsu CARE, a complimentary maintenance program, recorded its 100,000 service interval. Read this article for the details. PINE BUSH EQUIPMENT www.pbeinc.com EAST PBE

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A SALUTE TO A

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CUSTOMER

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TOMPKINS EXCAVATING

Family company from Putnam Valley, N.Y., achieves success with commercial, residential projects

As a high school student, Mark Tompkins cut lawns to earn spending money and save for college. At the time, he envisioned spending his future career in a much different field. “I graduated from high school thinking I was going to be a chiropractor,” recalled Mark, who is Secretary of Tompkins Excavating. “After a year of school, I realized that being inside all day wasn’t what I wanted to do. I was still cutting lawns at the time, so I decided to invest myself into that business instead.” Throughout the next decade, Mark grew his company, adding landscape installation and construction services. He eventually landed several grading contracts for housing developments, which led to full site development projects by the early 90s.

(L-R) Tompkins Excavating President Stacey Tompkins and Secretary Mark Tompkins are with their sons Michael, Justin and Kevin.

Since then, the Putnam Valley, N.Y.-based firm’s business plan has remained unchanged. It continues to focus on commercial and residential site development in the surrounding counties,

while rounding out the calendar with several landscaping projects. “People call Mark a land sculptor,” remarked his wife, Stacey, who is President of the family company. “He is unbelievably creative. Most residential projects require his emotional, physical and mental attention because there are no set plans. Mark can envision the end product before the homeowner, and they trust him to make something beautiful.” Tompkins Excavating currently employs 18 people full time, but during the summer that number increases when the couple’s three sons – Kevin, Justin and Michael – catch a break from classes and help out in the business. “We love having our sons involved in the company,” noted Stacey. “They work hard and seem to have a real interest in it.”

Getting jobs done Tompkins Excavating has earned a reputation for quality results since taking on its first commercial contract in Yorktown Heights in 1994. The company laid the groundwork for the area’s first BJ’s Wholesale Club. The 200,000-square-foot project required underground utility and sewer installation, as well as excavation and backfill for footings and foundation walls. “That was a huge undertaking,” noted Mark. “At the time, we hired enough people to double our number of employees and bought several new pieces of equipment. Last year, we went back and added a gas station in the BJ’s parking lot; it was interesting to see things come full circle.” The firm has played a key role in several of the area’s larger projects since then. In 2017, a shopping center renovation presented several challenges.

Using integrated intelligent Machine Control technology, the Komatsu PC210LCi-11 excavator cuts to grade within a tenth of an inch after removing rock from a residential site in Chappaqua, N.Y. “Whether you’re doing drainage, sewer, water, foundations or earthmoving, you dig to grade the first time,” explained Project Manager Kevin Tompkins.

“The original center burned to the ground 15 years ago and then sat idle,” explained Stacey. “Our first step was clearing and demolishing the remaining infrastructure. Then we installed all new utilities, parking and drainage before a 30,000-square-foot center could be built.” A new firehouse in Peekskill, N.Y., has been a visible project in the community as well. Tompkins Excavating was responsible for the site work, excavation and backfill of the footings and foundation walls. They installed the sewer, drainage, water, utilities, parking lots, curbs and sidewalks. The 18-month assignment will be finished in the next couple of months. Currently, the company is completing the site work and final grading for two homes on a five-acre plot in Chappaqua, N.Y. The endeavor also requires a 600-foot road, which crews will grade before subbing out the paving. “We’ve been hammering rock since our first day on-site in Chappaqua,” noted Mark. “We’re very experienced with these types of residential projects. We complete between 20 to 30 of them per year and five or six larger commercial jobs. It’s our niche.”

30 years with PBE When Mark looked to buy his first piece of equipment in 1986, a Komatsu D31 dozer, he

A Tompkins Excavating operator uses a Komatsu PC228USLC excavator to break up rock before installing underground utilities, sewer and drainage systems for two new homes in Chappaqua, N.Y.

turned to Pine Bush Equipment (PBE) and Sales Rep Jim Boniface for assistance. Thirty-two years later, the relationship continues to flourish as the Tompkins have purchased between 40 and 50 machines from PBE. The business currently has 12 Komatsu excavators, three wheel loaders and a dozer in its fleet. Continued . . .

‘Quality of Komatsu keeps us coming back’ . . . continued

“Jim makes the buying process very easy for us,” said Mark. “The quality of Komatsu also keeps us coming back. The machines feel like an extension of my body when I operate them.” In 2017, the company was in the market to buy a new excavator. After spending a year studying various options, Stacey decided to purchase the company’s first intelligent Machine Control excavator, a PC210LCi-11. “My oldest son, Kevin, really fueled the decision with his research on the machine,” shared Stacey. “The investment has certainly paid off; we can see the time- and money-saving benefits already.” The GPS-guided excavator’s capabilities have proven useful on a current project in Chappaqua. Operators dug a detention basin for water without the use of stakes. The 600-foot stretch of road was dug and graded within a tenth of an inch using the intelligent Machine Control settings. “Our intelligent Machine Control excavator does what you want it to do organically,” explained Mark. “Once the model is in the system, anybody can operate the machine. It makes a good operator great and allows us to take on more projects with the time we save.”

The Tompkins family has remained loyal to PBE for the last three decades due, in large part, to the service it provides. “Pine Bush’s service is amazing,” noted Mark. “Whenever I need something, I call Earl, one of the PBE shop technicians. He always goes the extra mile when I have a technical question and makes sure everything is done right.” Mark values Komatsu CARE, a complimentary maintenance service program provided by PBE for three years or 2,000 hours on Tier 4 machines. “I’ll get a phone call letting me know when a machine needs service. This system can track the hours and location of our equipment, so PBE knows exactly where the machine is. I just let the tech know what day works best, then he shows up and does the maintenance. It’s effortless.” Stacey appreciates the simplicity of Komatsu Financial to purchase equipment. “Using Komatsu to finance a purchase is so easy. They’re always our first choice. The rates are excellent, and no private bank can match what they offer.”

Looking forward After 30 years, the firm is geared for success into the next generation. Residential developments will remain an important part of the business plan as the Tompkins intend to bid larger commercial projects more consistently. Having three sons interested in the family firm is a driving factor for Mark and Stacey as well. “When most owners get near retirement they kind of fizzle out, but we’re doing the opposite,” explained Stacey. “Our kids’ interest in what we do gives us a reason to grow. Mark and I want to make Tompkins large enough so the boys can come in and take it to another level.” Kevin finishes college next year and then plans to work full time for the company. His middle brother, Justin, looks to do the same when he earns his business degree.

(L-R) Pine Bush Equipment (PBE) Sales Rep Jim Boniface visits with President Stacey Tompkins and Secretary Mark Tompkins of Tompkins Excavating. The company purchased its first equipment from Jim and PBE in 1986.

“Right now, we focus on mid-size commercial projects, residential subdivisions and single-family homes,” mentioned Justin. “Down the road, I would like to take on larger commercial projects and grow the real estate development division of the company.” ■

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A CLOSER LOOK

NEW OSHA RULES

Standards reduce silica dust exposure limit, add compliance requirements

A James R. Waite, Esq., Attorney at Law

James R. Waite, Esq. is an equipment industry attorney. He authored the American Rental Association’s book on rental contracts and represents equipment sellers and lessors throughout North America on a wide range of issues.

A new Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rule regarding respirable crystalline silica dust in the construction industry requires covered employers to comply with stricter exposure limits and take steps to protect workers. OSHA reduced the exposure for construction activities to 20 percent of the previous permissible limit (from 250 micrograms per cubic meter of air to 50) averaged throughout an eight-hour shift. The previous standard had been in place since 1971. These new regulations for the construction industry went into effect last fall. Crystalline silica is a common earth mineral that can be found in sand, stone and other materials. Respirable crystalline silica – very small particles, at least 100 times smaller than ordinary sand – is generated when cutting, sawing, grinding, drilling and crushing stone, rock, concrete, brick, block and mortar, among others, as well as in general excavation. The smaller the particles, the deeper they penetrate into the respiratory tract.

Respirable crystalline silica is generated when cutting, sawing, grinding, drilling and crushing stone, rock, concrete, brick, block and mortar, as well as in general excavation. About 2.3 million people in the United States are exposed to silica at work annually.

“Silica particles are thrown into the air, and at 10 micrograms they get into your mouth and the top of your throat,” said attorney and author James R. Waite, Esq., who helps companies comply with regulatory standards. “At three to five micrograms, it gets into the chest area and under 2.5, silica dust settles into the lungs and never leaves, which can lead to silicosis and other conditions.” Silicosis is an incurable lung disease that can lead to death or disability. Lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and kidney disease can also result from respirable silica dust exposure. OSHA estimates the updated standard will prevent 600 deaths and more than 900 cases of silicosis annually.

Options, added steps About 2.3 million people in the United States are exposed to silica at work each year. Employers have options to meet the standard such as using water to keep dust from getting into the air and proper vacuum dust-collection systems that include HEPA filtration. Utilizing approved respirators with an assigned protection factor of at least 10 under certain conditions, such as sawing more than four hours per day outside or anytime inside, is required. Additional requirements of the new OSHA standard include: • Assessing employee exposure to silica, if it is at or above an action level of 25 micrograms per cubic meter of air averaged throughout an eight-hour day and limiting access to high-exposure areas. • Establishing and implementing a written exposure-control plan, which identifies tasks that involve exposure as well as methods used to protect workers, including procedures to restrict access to work areas where high exposures may occur.

• Designating a competent person to implement the written control plan. • Restricting housekeeping practices that expose workers to silica, such as the use of compressed air without a ventilation system to capture the dust and dry sweeping where effective, safe alternatives are available. • Offering medical exams – including chest X-rays and lung-function tests – every three years for workers who are required by the standard to wear a respirator for 30 or more days in a given year. • Training workers on the health effects of silica exposure, workplace tasks that can bring them into contact with silica, and implementing alternative means of limiting exposure. • Keeping records of workers’ silica exposure and medical exams.

to monitor,” said Waite. “If you are below 25 micrograms per cubic meter, great. If not, it’s critical to meet the requirements to avoid violations and potential liability that could lead to legal claims.”

OSHA training requirements for workers must include instructions on the health hazards of silica dust, a list of workplace tasks that can result in exposure, steps their employer has taken to protect employees and the purpose of the medical exams. Workers should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the topics during an OSHA investigation. Penalties include a fine of $12,741 per violation, generally assessed per day for failure to abate and $124,709 per violation for “willful” or “repeat” violations.

OSHA has programs that provide assistance to help small- and medium-size firms comply with the standards. It also has fact sheets available online at osha.gov.

“No one can tell by just looking if they’re at or above the monitoring level, so it’s best

Waite said there are additional steps that companies can take to protect themselves and workers such as putting stickers on equipment that warn of potential exposure and posting signs at all entry and exit points to and from regulated areas. When cleaning equipment, individuals should never use compressed air and the person(s) performing the task should wear protection such as a proper respirator.

A new Occupational Safety and Health Administration rule regarding respirable crystalline silica dust reduced the previous exposure limit to 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air averaged throughout an eight-hour shift. Employers have options to meet the standard such as using water to keep dust from getting into the air, proper vacuum-dust collection systems and approved respirators.

No excuses A separate standard was created for general and maritime industries. It, along with rules for hydraulic fracturing, went into effect this summer.

“Contamination and the associated legal liabilities are nothing new,” said Waite. “But, when governmental agencies like OSHA begin modifying long-accepted standards, business owners are wise to take action. Enhanced focus on regulations tends to yield similar enhancements in enforcement, making arguments such as, ‘We’ve done it this way for 30 years,’ largely irrelevant.” ■

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PINE BUSH EQUIPMENT EAST PBE

Pine Bush Equipment 97 Route 302 Pine Bush, NY Phone: (845) 744-2006 Fax: (845) 744-2900

24 Sybil Court Holmes, NY Phone: (845) 878-4004 Fax: (845) 878-9626

East PBE 283 Pane Road Newington, CT Phone: (860) 665-7470 Fax: (860) 665-7478

INDUSTRY OUTLOOK

TAX LAW SPURS OPTIMISM

Lower rates and faster write-offs could provide major boost to contractors

Tax reform took firm hold this year, affecting both individuals and businesses, including major changes for some in the construction industry as Congress passed and President Trump signed H.R. 1, The Tax Cut and Jobs Act, last December. This legislation, in most cases, increased take-home pay, lowered corporate tax rates and included provisions designed to increase expensing limits. The signature piece of the legislation may be a reduced corporate tax rate, which was slashed from 35 to 21 percent and was made permanent. Personal-services corporations are also now taxed at 21 percent. Pass-through businesses – those that are structured to allow owners to include profits on their personal tax returns such as partnerships, S Corporations or sole proprietorships and are taxed at the individual’s marginal income tax rate – received significant savings, too. A section was added to the tax code (199A) that provides a 20-percent deduction on such

income through 2025. Limitations do apply such as phase-outs at certain income levels. “Lowering the tax rate provides substantial savings that allow us to keep more capital to invest in new equipment and pay off machinery that we have financed sooner,” said Don Satoski, President/ Co-owner of Landmark Materials, LLC, of Union Mills, Ind. “Those are excellent benefits for us.” Service businesses, including architecture and engineering firms, are eligible for a deduction, but are excluded from receiving the 20-percent deduction above $157,000 for individuals and $315,000 for married filing jointly. Phase-outs apply as does the expiration after 2025.

Editor’s note: This article is based on data from Associated General Contractors of America and is for informational purposes only. It does not reflect all changes under the tax law. You should seek advice from a professional tax adviser on how the legislation affects you and/or your business.

Section 179 doubled, made permanent The Tax Cut and Jobs Act affects business expensing in a variety of ways, such as Continued . . .

The Tax Cut and Jobs Act affects business expensing in a variety of ways, such as temporary full expensing for property currently eligible for bonus depreciation for five years. This applies to property placed in service after September 27, 2017, including new and used equipment.

Demand for construction services likely to expand . . . continued

temporary full expensing for property currently eligible for bonus depreciation for five years. That applies to property placed in service after September 27, 2017, including new and used equipment. “The tax plan is great for us, especially on equipment purchases,” shared David Bussman, Vice President of MGL, Inc., a utility contractor based in Cullman, Ala. “Combine that with the zero-percent financing on the machines we bought last fall, and the savings are significant.” Section 179 Expensing – which allows taxpayers to deduct the cost of certain property types as an expense rather than being capitalized and depreciated – was permanently increased from $500,000 to $1 million with a $2.5 million phase-out and is indexed to inflation. The definition of property now includes roofs as well as HVAC, fire protection, alarm and security systems added to non-residential buildings already placed in service.

Employee take-home pay rises While the final legislation reduced nearly all tax rates for individual and married filers alike, there are still seven brackets. Two remain the same, including the lowest at 10 percent; however, the amount subject to that rate increased from $0-9,325 to $0-9,524 for single filers and from $1-18,650 to $0-19,049 for married filing jointly. Previously, income above Construction workers saw a boost in take-home pay, because the law reduced most tax rates and increased amounts subject to new and unchanged percentages. A Business Insider analysis showed laborers’ average federal tax owed would drop by nearly 20 percent.

$9,325 and $18,650 would have been subject to a 15-percent rate. The 35-percent bracket also increases the amount subject to it. All other previous tax brackets were lowered, including the top rate, which went from 39.6 percent to 37 percent. The biggest change was to the previous 28 percent rate, which dropped to 24 percent. The 15-percent and 25-percent brackets were each reduced by 3 percent to 12 and 22 percent respectively. The 33-percent rate decreased to 32 percent. A Business Insider analysis showed the average annual pay for construction laborers is $37,890, which made their previous federal tax $3,645. Under the new bill, it estimates a reduction to $2,916, for a savings of nearly 20 percent. Along with rate changes, the standard deduction nearly doubled to $12,000 for individuals and $24,000 for those married filing jointly. Previously it was $6,350 and $12,700. The new standard deduction and tax rates are temporary and expire at the end of 2025.

Firms hiring Now is a good time for workers seeking employment in the construction industry. Seventy-five percent of construction companies plan to expand their payrolls in 2018, according to results of an Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) survey, Expecting Growth to Continue: The 2018 Construction Industry Hiring and Business Outlook. “Construction firms appear to be very optimistic about 2018 as they expect demand for all types of construction services to expand,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, AGC’s Chief Executive Officer, upon release of the survey results. “This optimism is likely based on current economic conditions, an increasingly business-friendly regulatory environment and expectations that the Trump administration will boost infrastructure investments.” There is hope that the tax law will help with the latter as it kept a provision for Private Activity Bonds, which will assist with financing transportation infrastructure as well as low-income housing and other public construction and public-private partnership projects, according to AGC. ■

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PINE BUSH EQUIPMENT EAST PBE

G R O

Pine Bush Equipment 97 Route 302 Pine Bush, NY Phone: (845) 744-2006 Fax: (845) 744-2900

24 Sybil Court Holmes, NY Phone: (845) 878-4004 Fax: (845) 878-9626

East PBE 283 Pane Road Newington, CT Phone: (860) 665-7470 Fax: (860) 665-7478

FIELD NOTES

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BETTER DOZING Experienced earthmoving contractor boosts efficiency with Komatsu D51EXi dozer

C Cody Weaver, Owner, CW Construction

Cody Weaver started moving dirt at the age of 12 and hasn’t stopped. Throughout the years, the Owner of CW Construction learned how to do it as efficiently and competitively as possible by maximizing production time. Approximately a year ago, he upped the ante further with the addition of a Komatsu D51EXi intelligent Machine Control dozer.

lowers to grade in a typical dozing pass. If the load increases to maximum capacity, the blade automatically raises to minimize track slip, ensuring productive dozing. This allows the dozer to achieve up to 8 percent greater efficiency in moving materials, based on start-to-finish grade testing against typical aftermarket machine-control systems.

Weaver uses it to prep subgrade for roadways, level pads, cut and move massive amounts of dirt, as well as place sub-base materials, among other tasks. The dozer features factory-integrated machine control that requires no masts or cables like traditional aftermarket GPS grading systems.

Four modes

“I love that it provides automatic dozing from rough cut to finish grade, and that the system is integrated into the machine,” said Weaver. “The accuracy is impressive. It eliminates overcutting and the need to replace materials with expensive fill.” Once engaged, Komatsu’s intelligent Machine Control system automatically starts the cut and CW Construction’s intelligent Machine Control D51EXi dozer cuts, grades and pushes material. “I love that it provides automatic dozing from rough cut to finish grade, and that the system is integrated into the machine, so there are no masts or cables to install or remove,” said Owner Cody Weaver. “The accuracy is impressive. Our time, material and labor savings are remarkable.”

Operators can select from four distinct operating modes (Cut and Cutting, Spreading and Simple Grading) to optimize performance to the application. They can also tailor blade loads to material conditions by choosing from light, normal or heavy blade-load settings. “It virtually eliminates the need for staking and grade checkers,” Weaver stated. “You can just plug in the plans, set the machine and it does the work, making even the newest operators look like they have been running a dozer for years. Our time, material and labor savings are remarkable.” ■

“I’VE USED THEM ALL AND KOMATSU IS THE BEST.” TAD GRIFFITHS / ROYAL T ENTERPRISES / UTAH

“Komatsu’s i-machines definitely make my operators better at what they do. I mean, we haven’t been using this technology for the past twenty years, so it’s pretty new. But this tech makes it easier to do our job–makes it so that my operators can work more efficiently, and we get a better finished product.”

That’s why I am Komatsu

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“THERE’S NOTHING THIS HI-TECH OUT THERE!” ANTHONY CARLTON / OWNER / CARLTON, INC / ALPINE, UT

“Using and understanding the new product technology, available from Komatsu for our business, made me apprehensive at first. But our dealer and their technical support have worked with us to help us make the tech work for our needs. I am seeing the benefits now. I’m on board and love it!”

That’s why I am Komatsu

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PRODUCT INTRODUCTION

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EXCEPTIONAL EXCAVATOR New model offers added stability, excellent over-the-side lift capacity in efficient combo package

Have you ever wanted more? The PC390LCi-11 excavator from Komatsu provides more stability, achieving excellent balance among power, speed and fine control. This machine utilizes the upper structure and engine of the PC360LC models and the undercarriage of a 400-class machine. Now, Komatsu has taken that concept and made it intelligent with the introduction of its new Tier 4 Final PC390LCi-11.

“The intelligent Machine Control PC390LCi-11 delivers the exceptional production and speed of the PC360LCi-11, with full-factory, 3-D Global Navigation Satellite System machine control along with increased stability from its up-sized undercarriage,” said Komatsu Product Specialist Renee Kafka. “This makes for the perfect combination in applications such as utility or wherever heavy lifting occurs.”

“To increase comfort and convenience, the PC390LCi-11 comes standard with the machine-control-enhanced joysticks that were initially introduced on the PC210LCi-11,” noted Kafka. “Whether it is production excavating, utility trenching or heavy-attachment work, this machine helps make operators’ jobs easier, while reducing material costs by minimizing overexcavation.” ■

Renee Kafka, Komatsu Product Specialist

Quick Specs on Komatsu’s PC390LCi-11 Excavator Model PC390LCi-11

Net Horsepower Operating Weight 257 hp

87,867-90,441 lb

Bucket Capacity .89-2.91 cu yd

Komatsu’s PC390LCi-11 delivers the exceptional production and speed of the PC360LCi-11, with full-factory, 3-D Global Navigation Satellite System machine control along with increased stability from its up-sized undercarriage, making it a great fit for trenching or heavy-application work.

The 257-horsepower PC390LCi-11 is the fourth installment in the intelligent Machine Control excavator lineup. It leverages the proven technology first introduced on the PC210LCi-10, including semi-automatic operation that goes beyond traditional indicate-only systems. Once target elevation is reached, the machine keeps the operator from digging deeper, eliminating overexcavation and the need for expensive fill.

intelligent Machine Control benefits The Steer-to-Polyline feature helps operators actively dig to a center line, keeping a utility trench on track and minimizing waste. It’s also easy for operators to create simple surfaces quickly for pipe runs by themselves.

“THE TECH MAKES ME FASTER.” JEROME HAYCRAFT / ASPLIN INC. / FARGO, ND

iNTELLIGENT MACHINE CONTROL “We have a Komatsu PC210LCi and it’s been better than I even expected. The speed and time you save just having your line work and not having to worry about over excavating— that’s huge. I hated those bigger commercial jobs where you’d have hundreds of stakes marking all your corners, offsets and gridlines. And to not have a need for any of that, especially if it’s an export site or it doesn’t even really have to be, just room for your spoil piles. Keeping track of corners—major time saver! I’d say, with iMC, I’m about a third faster getting the job done.”

That’s why I am Komatsu

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SPECIAL RECOGNITION

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‘INTELLIGENT’ ANNIVERSARY Komatsu marks five years of saving customers time, money with integrated machine-control technology

To say that Komatsu is observing the five-year anniversary of intelligent Machine Control is slightly misleading. While the first dozer made its debut in 2013, the genesis of its factory-integrated GPS equipment goes back much further. “Research and development started many years earlier,” shared Jason Anetsberger, Senior Product Manager, SMARTCONSTRUCTION and intelligent Machine Control. “Komatsu uses the Continued . . .

Jason Anetsberger, Komatsu Senior Product Manager, SMARTCONSTRUCTION and intelligent Machine Control

Mike Salyers, Komatsu Senior Product Manager, SMARTCONSTRUCTION

Ron Schwieters, Komatsu Product Manager, intelligent Machine Control

Komatsu’s intelligent Machine Control excavators feature semi-automatic operation that goes beyond traditional indicate-only systems. Once target elevation is reached, the system limits the machine from digging deeper, eliminating overexcavation and the need for expensive fill material.

Quick acceptance results in repeat customers . . . continued

PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act) model for continuous improvement to ensure that each machine it brings to market will meet customer expectations for productivity and support. From an intelligent Machine Control standpoint, that included having technology solutions experts (TSEs) at each distributor to educate customers on how to set up and implement the technology.”

No masts or cables The first model was the D61i-23 – since replaced with a second-generation D61i-24 – which ushered in fully automatic blade control from rough cut to finish grade.

Because it’s integrated into the machine, intelligent Machine Control eliminates the masts and cables associated with traditional aftermarket systems, so operators gain production time that was previously lost in setting up and tearing down at the beginning and end of each day. “Eliminating the need for operators to climb on the machine or blade to mount components is a big plus, too,” said Mike Salyers, Senior Product Manager, SMARTCONSTRUCTION. “The bottom line is that customers are moving dirt faster, more efficiently and at lower costs.”

Komatsu introduced intelligent Machine Control five years ago with the original D61i dozers. Today, that model is in its second generation, the D61EXi-24, pictured here.

The Komatsu PC490LCi is revolutionizing the work site. This intelligent excavator increases production, improves the profitability of other machines, saves time and doesn’t need a dozer to support it.

Komatsu quickly augmented its intelligent Machine Control lineup. In 2014, it brought the D39i and D51i dozers to market. It has since added D65i, D85i and D155AXi models. Additionally, more than 100 TSEs are in the field to provide customers with a wide spectrum of support options.

Supporting an excavator with a dozer used to be necessary, but not profitable. The Komatsu PC490LCi can handle its business all by itself, now you're free to use your dozer to increase production.

Excavators introduced Early 2014 saw the introduction of the world’s first intelligent Machine Control excavator, the PC210LCi-10. PC360LCi-11s and PC490LCi-11s followed soon after, along with a PC210LCi-11 to replace the original. Komatsu recently launched the PC390LCi-11. Each features semi-automatic operation that goes beyond traditional indicate-only systems. Once target elevation is reached, the machine limits the operator from digging deeper, eliminating overexcavation and the need for expensive fill material. “Our data indicate that intelligent Machine Control has been a resounding success,” said Ron Schwieters, Product Manager, intelligent Machine Control. “As more and more customers saw the positive results, the word spread. Five years ago if you mentioned machine control, Komatsu was likely left out of the conversation. Now, we are at the forefront. This technology has changed the industry.” Today, there are more than 2,000 intelligent Machine Control dozers and excavators combined that are moving earth across North America. Anetsberger noted that a large percentage of users were new to GPS technology before they tried one of Komatsu’s integrated machines. “Skeptical is a good way to describe some of them,” Anetsberger reported. “After they operated one and experienced its accuracy, production and simplicity, acceptance came quickly. Throughout the years, many became repeat customers. They bought one piece of intelligent Machine Control equipment, saw the time and material savings and added more. I think this evidence speaks volumes to the value that intelligent Machine Control provides business owners and operators on a daily basis.” ■

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TIGHT-TAIL-SWING PERFORMANCE New excavator delivers outstanding lift capacity; KomVision bird’s-eye-view camera available

Y Andrew Earing, Product Manager, Tracked Machines

You can get dynamite performance in a small package. Komatsu’s Tier 4 Final PC238USLC-11 proves it with a heavy counterweight mass and rounded cab that provide true tight-tail-swing performance and greater lift capacity than most conventional excavators of the same size. And, it boosts productivity up to 4 percent compared to the Dash-10 with a new viscous fan clutch that lowers engine parasitic loads.

making it well suited for utility and highway applications and when working in confined spaces,” said Andrew Earing, Product Manager, Tracked Machines. “The machine’s contoured cab profile and sliding door allow the cab to swing within the same radius as the counterweight. The additional counterweight remains standard, giving the PC238USLC-11 equal or better lift capacity than conventional models in the same size class.”

“The PC238USLC-11 maintains the tight-tail-swing radius of its predecessor,

The PC238USLC-11 is available with Komatsu’s new KomVision, a bird’s-eye-view camera system that combines input from three cameras into a surround-view image of the machine and its environment that improves operators’ situational awareness.

Komatsu’s PC238USLC-11 excavator features a heavy counterweight mass and rounded cab that provide true tight-tail-swing performance and better lift capacity than most conventional excavators of the same size. A new viscous fan clutch lowers engine parasitic loads, increasing productivity up to 4 percent.

Monitor panel improvements Komatsu upgraded the high-resolution, LCD monitor panel, incorporating the standard rearview camera display with gauges. “Ecology Guidance” provides fuel-saving information to the operators, and they can still choose from six working modes to most effectively match the application, attachment and working conditions. “In addition to the PC238USLC-11 measuring 40 percent shorter than the conventional PC210LC-11, this machine offers class-leading serviceability with quick access to the DEF pump and filter, PPC valves, batteries and aftertreatment components,” said Earing. “Durability is second-to-none, with thick-plate steel used on the revolving frame, heavy-duty boom and arm structures, and easy-to-access cooling-system-debris screens. Overall, the PC238USLC-11 is a true purpose-built, short-tail excavator designed and crafted to outlast the competition.” ■

“THEIR FINANCE PROGRAM ROCKS!” LANCE LANNOM, RACHELLE REIGARD & EDUARDO MORALES / GRADE A CONSTRUCTION / LEBANON, TN

COMPETITIVE AND FLEXIBLE “Komatsu has been a great partner for us. They’ve been with us through the years, even when we started small and not many other places wanted to talk to us. They believed in us and helped us grow. From a custom financing plan to tech like KOMTRAX, to customer service and Komatsu CARE, and of course reliable products—they offer everything to help our bottom line grow.” Rachelle Reigard, President

That’s why I am Komatsu

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CASE STUDY

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BUSINESS SOLUTIONS GROUP Team assesses Madden Materials’ operations; improvements save enough to buy additional equipment

Approximately two years ago, Joe and Sofia Regalado acquired Madden Materials, adding to the couple’s already hefty work load as they operated a trucking company and another material supply business. The new venture came with challenges, so they turned to their local Komatsu distributor, who connected them with the Business Solutions Group to help formulate an action plan. The Business Solutions Group offers bottom-line tactics that maximize production and efficiency. The group studies customers’ existing operations, considers alternatives and provides recommendations. The service is complimentary. In Madden Materials’ case, the Business Solutions Group partnered with the distributor to conduct an Optimized Fleet Recommendation (OFR) study on how to move sand from the pit to a new wash plant most effectively. Members of the Business Solutions Group took into account the productive potential of various sizes of excavators, wheel loaders and trucks to identify the most efficient fleet, depending on production needs and other factors.

“They assessed the site – how we load, haul distance, tons of product the plant needed per hour – and determined that smaller units would be best,” said Owner/Chief Executive Officer Joe Regalado. “They projected operating costs by considering fuel, operator pay, maintenance and more.” Before the study, Regalado was convinced he needed to add a large truck, possibly a 60-ton rigid frame, and pair it with an existing 50-ton-plus excavator. The Business Solutions Group showed him other options, including using a Komatsu 30-ton articulated dump truck and a PC360LC excavator.

Money-saving strategies “The same production with smaller equipment means less fuel and maintenance as well as lower overall costs,” said Regalado. “The study saved us enough money that we could buy a second WA380 loader. The assessment was done at no charge. That’s an incredible benefit, and they have finished a second OFR study to determine our present and future needs as we continue to expand and move farther away from the plant.” ■

Joe Regalado, Owner/Chief Executive Officer, Madden Materials

Komatsu’s Business Solutions Group recommended a smaller articulated haul truck, an HM300, as part of its assessment of Madden Materials’ operations. “The same production with smaller equipment means less fuel and maintenance as well as lower overall costs,” said Joe Regalado, Owner/ Chief Executive Officer.

S ALES R ENTALS P ARTS S ERVICE NAPA A UTO P ARTS Pine Bush Equipment Group has what you need … when you need it

Service

Equipment Sales and Rentals

Equipment Sales: Product lines include the best heavy equipment and tools in the business, including: Komatsu, Wacker-Neuson, Gehl, Hydrema, Stihl and many more. Rentals: PBE Group offers daily, weekly and monthly rentals of late-model heavy equipment and attachments. Jobsite specialists will visit your site to help determine the best products for a project – no charge, no obligation. Parts

Service: Equipment ownership is worry-free with a variety of service programs and factory-trained technicians to keep your fleet running like new. Parts: Our vast parts inventory keeps your business productive. PBE Group offers hydraulic hoses while you wait as well as online parts ordering and next-day delivery. NAPA Auto Parts: For your convenience, PBE Group carries thousands of NAPA auto and truck parts at two locations and online to fit your every need.

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PARTS NEWS

MORE UNDERCARRIAGE OPTIONS

Komatsu General Construction product line to add new dozer replacement offering

Nearly three years ago, Komatsu introduced its competitively priced General Construction Undercarriage (GC), designed to reduce replacement costs on PC200 and PC300 excavators. The lineup will expand to dozers in 2018, with Genuine Undercarriage product replacements for D51, D61 and D65 models. The initial excavator product release was specific to track-link assemblies. The dozer offerings will consist of conventional-style link assemblies, according to Komatsu Senior Product Manager Jim Funk, who pointed out that the GC product line fills a void for customers who prefer quality products and great support, but are looking at all options due to the status of their machine’s life cycle or their business. “Typically, a dozer’s undercarriage is replaced more often than other tracked machines because of the nature of the work it does,” said Funk. “Throughout the course of its life, a dozer’s undercarriage will account for nearly half of owning and operating costs. We strive to provide effective and reliable undercarriage products that meet customer needs and machine situations of all types. With the continued expansion of the GC options, we are showing once again that we listen to our customers by providing products that fit their needs as well as their owning and operating targets.”

three undercarriage factory, research and development facilities. “They are built to our specific quality standards,” said Funk. “The heat-treat process and hardness levels are the same as with any new undercarriage. That means the GC components are interchangeable with non-GC parts, giving customers peace of mind they will be a proper fit and have the same durability as their original undercarriage. We back it with the best assurance coverage in the industry.

Jim Funk, Komatsu Senior Product Manager – Undercarriage

“We encourage anyone who is looking at undercarriage replacement options to contact their distributor or Komatsu about a GC undercarriage,” Funk added. “It’s a great choice at a competitive price.” ■

The Komatsu General Construction Undercarriage for dozers will provide another high-quality, competitively priced alternative for replacement options. They will be available for D51, D61 and D65 models.

Expanded lineup built to fit and last All GC products are designed and manufactured by one of Komatsu’s

AT YOUR SERVICE

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KOMATSU CARE Technicians complete 100,000th complimentary maintenance visit to customer’s jobsite

W Mike Hayes, Director of Service Marketing & Distributor Development, Komatsu

When Komatsu’s first Tier 4 construction-size machines rolled off the assembly lines in 2011, they came with Komatsu CARE, a pioneering, complimentary maintenance program providing service for the first three years or 2,000 hours of operation. This spring, the program marked its 100,000th service interval, performed on a PC228USLC-10 excavator owned by J. Fletcher Creamer & Son. The program includes scheduled factory maintenance, oil sampling of each lubricated reservoir, a 50-point inspection at every service and up to two complimentary Komatsu Diesel Particulate Filter exchanges in the first 9,000 hours for qualified machines. Having the experts at Komatsu perform this maintenance has benefits well beyond free service. “Komatsu CARE demonstrates our commitment to meeting customers’ needs. It’s the most comprehensive offering in the marketplace, and we are extremely proud of

Komatsu Director of Service Marketing & Distributor Development Mike Hayes (third from left) and Komatsu representatives present J. Fletcher Creamer & Son, Inc., with a certificate marking the 100,000th Komatsu CARE service interval that was performed on its Komatsu PC228USLC-10 excavator.

this milestone,”said Mike Hayes, Director of Service Marketing & Distributor Development for Komatsu.

More than complimentary service “This program is an asset to us because we know that our distributor is taking care of our Tier 4 equipment,” said Michael Schuhlein, Equipment Manager at J. Fletcher Creamer & Son. “With Komatsu servicing those machines, it frees us up to work on other maintenance. It makes us more efficient. “We have 58 machines, and most of them are covered by Komatsu CARE or were under it,” continued Schuhlein. “Having the experts from Komatsu in our garage keeps them familiar with our equipment, and it helps our service technicians learn and stay on top of the latest technology. Also, when a machine receives proper service at the recommended maintenance intervals, it ensures that it will reach the full potential of its life cycle.” ■

SIDE TRACKS

On the light side

“Space exploration has gotten easier now!

“Why do I need a brain when I can just Google everything?”

Did you know? “You can’t transfer me to the night shift – I’m solar powered.”

• The expiration date on water bottles is for the bottle, not the water. • Hawaii is the only U.S. state that grows coffee. • Your nose can remember 50,000 different scents. • Polar bear fur is transparent, not white. • When you blush, the lining of your stomach also turns red.

Brain Teasers Unscramble the letters to reveal some common construction-related words. Answers can be found in the online edition of the magazine at www.PBEPacer.com G __ __ __ __ 1. G N I G I D G __ __ __ E __ __ 2 T E F E L __ __ __ M __ 3. L M C A P __ __ __ __ 4. O R D O __ __ __ __ 5. N F A __ __ __

• There are 403 steps from the foundation to the top of the Statue of Liberty’s torch. • All pandas in the world are on loan from China. • Zero is the only number that cannot be represented by Roman numerals. • During the American Civil War, kites were used to deliver letters and newspapers. • James Buchanan was the only U.S. President who was never married. • The first pro baseball games aired on television August 26, 1939 – a doubleheader between Brooklyn and Cincinnati.

NEWS & NOTES

Survey shows banks opening up commercial lending

A recent Federal Reserve Board survey showed banks loosening lending policies for commercial projects. According to Construction Dive, a significant number of bank officers responding to the questionnaire said that their institutions had eased standards, in part, because of aggressive competition from other banks and nonbank lenders.

Eric Lemont, Real Estate Partner at Sullivan & Worcester in Boston, told Construction Dive last year that uncertainty around new high volatility commercial real estate (HVCRE) transaction requirements was one of the reasons. Construction loans fall under HVCRE rules, which require the lender to put aside 50 percent extra cash reserves, creating greater exposure for the lender. ■

Study reports mobile technology improves projects

Mobile technology enhances contractors’ ability to collect and distribute timely and accurate jobsite data, according to a new Dodge Data & Analytics and B2W Software study. Respondents said better access to project data trends was the

top benefit to mobile connectivity. Significant numbers said it improves communication; helps with budget and scheduling, fleet management, maintenance, efficiency and uptime; and increases productivity. ■

Komatsu plans North American headquarters move

Komatsu America announced plans to move its North American headquarters to Chicago in 2020. The firm is currently located in the city’s northwest suburb of Rolling Meadows. The new site at Triangle Plaza, 8770 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., will feature an open floor plan designed to foster more collaboration and cross-functional team communication that drives customer-first solutions and services.

“There’s something for everyone in this move,” said Rod Schrader, Chairman and CEO of Komatsu America Corp. “Current employees will enjoy the building amenities and convenience to major transportation, the new floor plan supports the company’s efforts to break down team and work-stream silos and the move helps Komatsu remain attractive to prospective employees living in the city and studying nearby.” ■

U.S. airports flying ahead with new construction

U.S. airports are getting an upgrade, with more than $70 billion in spending expected for aviation infrastructure during the next three years. An Architectural Record article by Erin Hudson reported that current renovations primarily focus on terminals where passengers’ impressions of a city are made. The upgrades include work on amenities such as restaurants and retail options at more than 50 airports.

“These major airports have squeezed as much blood out of a stone as possible,” said T.J. Shulz, President of the Airport Consultants Council in the article “U.S. Sees Rise in Airport Construction.” “Airport authorities and designers have done all they can do to account for differing airline service trends and new technologies coming into play, and now they’re in a position where they either refurbish or rebuild.” ■

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Pine Bush Equipment G NY 97 Route 302, Pine Bush, R Phone: (845) 744-2006 • Fax: (845) 744-2900 O U

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