26 minute read
BOBCAT SPRINGS A BACKHOE
THE COMPACT EQUIPMENT MARKET LEADER SURPRISES AND DELIGHTS THE REGIONAL EQUIPMENT SECTOR WITH THE GLOBAL PREMIERE OF ITS NEW GENERATION R-SERIES B730 BACKHOE LOADER, CHOOSING THE MEA REGION TO INTRODUCE A NEW ADVANCED DESIGN FOR BOBCAT BACKHOE LOADERS. ANIRBAN BAGCHI BRINGS YOU A GLOBAL EXCLUSIVE
BOBCAT SPRINGS A BACKHOE
Anew launch, and that too, a vitally important one, can hardly be expected in the current scenario by one of the biggest names in the region’s equipment sector. But Bobcat not only upended that script at the end of last month by debuting its brand new B730 backhoe loader in the Middle East and Africa market, it also made the launch sweeter by making it a world premiere, albeit a virtual one.
And in a scoop for our readers, CMME is the first publication to obtain exclusive access to the machine and be the first to bring you this global launch – remember you read it here first! Being an online launch presented by the company’s top brass from its Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) headquarters in Dobris in the Czech Republic and by regional heads, the machine itself was only presented in a film. But CMME managed to go behind the scenes and get a hands-on feel of the brand new B730.
Bobcat‘s new generation R-Series B730 backhoe loader replaces the company’s first generation B700, B730 and B750 models, for sale in the Middle East and Africa. Available in a choice of different configurations for diverse applications, Bobcat says the new R-Series B730 backhoe loader is ideal for use in construction, utility, rental, roadworks,
demolition, excavation, waste, recycling, landscaping, agriculture and many other sectors and industries.
Taking CMME on a guided tour of the new B730, Gaby Rhayem, regional director Middle East and Africa at Doosan Bobcat EMEA, says: “This new B730 is the new generation of Bobcat backhoe loaders. The hydraulics are totally different and upgraded; it’s a new machine with a new gear box and a powershift option; the controls are also totally different. A lot of changes have been
Bobcat’s new R Series B730 backhoe loader encapsulates all the lessons the compact equipment leader learnt with its previous foray into the segment with four models. made to the exterior and the mechanical designs, and maintenance has been made easier with thoughtful design, such as integration of the air filter.
“Many options can be added on to suit customer requirements. Apart from the powershift gearbox over the mechanical one, you can also go from mechanical to hydraulic controls to Bobcat’s ‘pilot’ controls. The cab also can be had without AC or heating or with a full HVAC system. Options on the bucket include a general-purpose (GP) to a six-in-one bucket. Another great feature available on this New Generation R-Series B730 is the ride control chassis, where the whole machine will be on the ride control feature for extra stability. And there are many more options and features.
“This machine comes with a lot of work behind it from Bobcat and a lot of listening to customers. It’s a well-studied, researched, painstakingly developed and tested piece of equipment that is easy to use and operate, and very productive. The new B730 is the most powerful machine in its class in the market based on the engine power - no one else has a 100hp motor powering their backhoe.”
Among the top priorities for developing the new B730 was operator comfort and efficiency, Rhayem reveals. Detailing the cab and operator environment, he says: “The cab is completely redesigned and the interiors are totally new. The switches and controls have all been moved to the right of the operator and grouped together in
Power in hp produced by the new B730’s engine, the highest in its class of backhoes 100
one console for easier access at one place.
“A lot of attention has been paid to operator comfort and the cab is a very large one with a six-pillar roof and maximised glass areas for great outside visibility, both front and rear as well as on the sides. Also, the line of sight to the loader bucket over the engine compartment is much better on the new B730, with a sloping bonnet line giving low down visibility to the bucket. Also, the seat swivels very easily for the operator to turn from the forward-facing loader to the backhoe at the rear.
The new B730 is designed with a distinctly Bobcat DNA and will now replace the three lower end models in Bobcat’s backhoe loader range, which is being rationalised to two models.
TECH SPECS
NEW BOBCAT R-SERIES B730 BACKHOE LOADER
Bucket capacity (loader): 1.1 m3
Breakout force shovel: 61.2 kN Breakout force arm: 57.9 kN Height to hinge pin: 3520 mm Dump height: 2810 mm Bucket capacity (backhoe): 0.2 m3
Bucket tearout: 59.3 kN Digging depth retracted/extended: 4600/5800 mm Length in travel position: 6100 mm Overall width (bucket): 2280 mm Overall transport height: 3840 mm Maximum speed: 40 km/h Engine: 4-cylinder Perkins 1104C-44T Power: 100 HP at 2200 RPM Operating weight (Base machine): 7.8t
“A feature that makes the new B730 even more operator-friendly is that no matter the type of controls an operator is used to working on, he can find it on this machine. For example, if he is used to the X-type or JCB controls, we can build the machine with that. If he is used to Cat controls, we can similarly build that into the machine. And if the operator is coming from a fleet that has a large number of big excavators that have ISO controls, we build that into the B730 as well. So, this increases the flexibility of the machine to adapt to any fleet and makes it easy for operators to get the maximum productivity from it.”
With the launch of the B730, Bobcat has also rationalised its backhoe loader line-up, which will now comprise only two machines, the top-of-the-range B780 and the new B730. The entry-level B700 is being discontinued and the new machine obviates the need for the B750. Explaining how, Rhayem says: “We had the B700 as our entry-level model - a really light machine with basic features, in case there was any need, though it was not really what the market was asking for.
IT’S ALL IN THE CAB
THE OPERATOR IS THE KING
With intuitive controls and smooth operation, Bobcat’s new R-Series are all designed around the operator, setting new standards in operator comfort. The new roomy 6-pillar cab in the B730 is typical of the R-Series design and provides operators with a flexible choice of control configurations. The B730 operator can choose between ISO, SAE or Cross (X) backhoe controls. The customer can build their preferred control pattern or change to pilot controls with a selectable control pattern. The selectable control patterns ensure that operators can make a hassle-free transition from one machine to another.
The B730 provides intuitive and simple, smooth operation in both working positions. The dashboard on the right-hand side of the cab groups all the necessary controls and easy-to-locate switches in one area, so they are easily accessible from both working positions.
On the loader side, the multi-function loader lever, featured as standard, has the 6-in-1 bucket, differential lock and transmission disengage functions integrated into a single control grip. The same lever also provides assistance for Return to Dig and Float operations, greatly increasing productivity.
The new cab offers operators unmatched all-round visibility, with an enlarged rear sliding window and angled, flat-glass side windows. As a result, operators can comfortably see what is around the machine and have a full view of all the workgroups in operation. There is increased air circulation as both the front door window and rear windows can be opened. When this is coupled with HVAC options, this ensures that the operator can work comfortably in all weather conditions.
The convenience features within the cab include additional storage areas. The front storage space on the left is a unique Bobcat signature element and is equipped with a USB charger, phone and cup holders, bottle holders on each side, and a cooled storage box with reinforced cover on AC models.
6Number of pillars in the new B730’s extremely roomy and large cab, with superior visibility
“What the market was asking for was a machine in our old B730 and B750 class. The two were exactly the same, with the only difference being that the old B730 was the lighter machine and the B750 was the fulloption version of the same unit, loaded with more features. So, we basically had a B730 ‘lite’ and a B730 full options in the B750. And then we had our range topping B780. The thought behind the B700 was that it could be useful in some African markets where economy was key, but we found that even those markets gradually wanted the more advanced and full-specced models like the B730.
“Now, having the B730 and B750 in our lineup, they seemed like two different models, but a little careful look would tell you it was the same machine with a higher configuration. So, to simplify the range, we did away with the B700 and also rationalised the B730 to one model, with customers now able to add in their options, thus obviating the need for a separate nomenclature of B750. Meanwhile the B780 with the four equal sized wheels still remains our top-of-the-range model.”
But it’s the newly launched R-Series B730 that Bobcat is banking on and to give it a boost in the market. The company has already done several demonstrations of the machine at job-sites around the UAE, and Rhayem reveals: “The response has been extremely positive. These demonstrations have been done with customers who are using backhoes from our competitors. We took the B730 to their job-sites and asked the operators to try it out side by side with their
original machines. And when they tried the B730, they were pleasantly surprised with its advancements, power and performance, as well as the operator environment. We will continue demonstrations in the entire UAE and also in other GCC countries in the coming days and we’re confident whoever tries the machine will come away impressed.”
The launch is a clear sign that Bobcat is investing in the backhoe loader, just like in its other compact products, Rhayem adds.
“It’s also a clear sign of our seriousness about the market, given that we launched the new B730 during this time of Covid-19, which
Launching the new B730 backhoe loader first in the Middle East and at this time, Bobcat has not only raffirmed its fatih in the region but also shown that the pandemic is no barrier in progress. is a very difficult one. Launching a totally new machine in this uncertain environment shows how confident we are, about both the machine and the market. We are coming back to the market in a big way, the Covid-19 situation notwithstanding.
“Bobcat is serious about the backhoe business and we’re investing into it. We have a factory in Turkey where this machine is made and we also have other factories coming onstream in other countries in the neighbourhood, such as Russia and India. We are increasing our manufacturing footprint worldwide and Bobcat’s backhoe loaders are popular in many markets globally, but the Middle East is definitely one of the most important markets for us and among the largest for the backhoe.
“The backhoe business is on average 4050% of the entire compact equipment market in the region. And because Bobcat wants to retain its position as the leader of the entire Middle East compact equipment business, we need to have backhoe loaders in our line-up that are as good as our other products. We are already the leader in the overall compact segment but we would want to increase our lead further over the other market players. In the Middle East today we lead the market in the skid-steer loaders and dominate in the compact tracked loaders; we are first or second place in the mini excavators and in second place in the telehandlers.
“We now have a very advanced backhoe loader in the market and our target is to cement our position at the top of the compact equipment segment in the region.”
23 RAW POWER EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
24 _NEW RELEASES
The latest releases from the world of construction machinery.
36_KING OF VERSATILITY
High reach and high lifting capacity are the two sought after features in the Middle East telehandler market.
30_RISING TO THE OCCASION
The Middle East tower crane sector has kept business running through the pandemic with great effort.
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TOP 10: TELEHANDLER SAFETY TIPS Always remain in control of your telehandler with these simple steps.
40_GENIE IN FREEZER
WACKER NEUSON EXPANDS MINI EXCAVATOR RANGE
WHY GET IT? HIGH BREAK-OUT FORCES, OPERATOR COMFORT, PERFORMANCE IN HOT CONDITIONS AND ZERO TAIL SWING
Wacker Neuson, has announced two new tracked excavators in the 4t and 5t class, which combine compact dimensions with a comfortable operator environment and high performance in hot conditions.
The company said the new ET42 and EZ50 – the Z stands for zero tail or with no rear overhang – expand its portfolio, which now ranges from 800kg to 15t excavators, to include two powerful machines that are suitable for a wide variety of applications.
“In designing the new mini-excavators, it was important to us to develop compact machines that are easy to handle, impressive in their performance and in keeping with the latest technological developments,” said Stefan Bogner, managing director of Wacker Neuson Linz GmbH, the research and development centre of expertise for excavators within the Wacker Neuson Group.
“Both excavators offer the perfect mixture of time-tested and proven characteristics, innovative features and the highest comfort and safety standards to our customers. All of that can be applied flexibly and thus particularly economically – a real boost for every construction site.”
The wide-opening covers on the tracked conventional tail excavator ET42 and the tracked zero-tail excavator EZ50 machines make access to all service points easier, which results in less downtime and thus cost savings, while the generously dimensioned radiators and efficient hydraulic systems make it possible to use the excavators for applications with very high ambient temperatures (+45 degrees Celsius) without suffering a loss of performance.
Both excavators have high lifting and digging power for quick work cycles and three-point kinematics for more breakout force, insertion depth and dumping height, improving their efficiency even on hard or rocky ground. An innovative hydraulic system the company calls “Load Sensing Flow Sharing” ensures precise control and high performance efficiency, with the machine adjusting automatically to the load and the joystick movement remaining constant for the operator at all times, making working with the excavator comfortable for operators.
Four additional control circuits allow the use of a variety of attachments.
SPECIFICATIONS
WACKER NEUSON ET42 AND EZ50
Operating weights: 4t & 5t Max ambient temperature: 45 degrees + Zero tail: EZ50 Conventional tail: ET42
NEW SKYJACK FEATURE EASES ACCESS
WHY GET IT? QUICK AND EASY FOLDING AND RAISING OF PLATFORM RAILS FOR SCISSOR LIFT MODEL TO PASS THROUGH DOORWAYS
Skyjack has fitted its SJ3219 ANSI model with a standard new system that allows the top of the platform rails to quickly fold down and enable access through standard doors and other areas with restricted space.
Skyjack says that with the ANSI 92.20 stipulations requiring additional rail height, the SJ3219 would no longer fit through a standard 80-inch door or entryway, but the addition of the RAPIDFOLD feature restores the ability to fit through doors with ease.
The RAPIDFOLD feature incorporates a quick release mechanism that takes only seconds to fold the rails to under 80 inches. Once through the door, the rails can be raised back to the required rail height, says Skyjack.
The system features simple and easy components that a single operator can use, with no need for tools, while the entire process takes a matter of seconds allowing uninterrupted work.
Kris Schmidt, product manager at Skyjack, explained: “RAPIDFOLD is both quick and easy to use, but more importantly, it means that we have not had to employ expensive systems that would have impacted customers at a price level and led to compromises in other performance areas.
“I am happy to say that this means the Skyjack SJ3219 model is the lightest scissor lift on the market that’s wind rated to full height for one person, still maintains a two person no-wind rating, and is capable of going through a standard door.”
CAT SIMPLIFIES THE DOZER WITH NEW D6 GC
WHY GET IT? ALL-ROUND PERFORMANCE WITH EASY OPERATION AND SIMPLE MAINTENANCE IN A MECHANICAL BULLDOZER
Cat’s new D6 GC bulldozer features fully-mechanical components and robust structures for a tough machine suitable for a wide range of conditions. The manufacturer says the machine is easy to maintain, productive and economical to own and operate, providing quick return on investment.
The D6 GC has 212hp of nominal net power from the Cat 3306 engine and operating weight from 21.6-22.7t. A three-speed planetary powershift transmission and Caterpillar exclusive torque divider ensure more useable power gets to the ground for solid all-around performance in a wide variety of applications. These mechanical components make up a robust power train that is easy to diagnose and maintain, even in remote locations, says Cat.
The controls include Cat’s familiar two-lever clutch and brake steering controls. Traditional blade controls and an easy-toread analogue dash display add to the simplicity and ease of operation. There is a choice of either open (canopy) or enclosed cab, both with Integrated RollOver Protective Structure (ROPS/ FOPS) for comfort, visibility and added safety. Suspension seat includes a built-in retractable seat belt, and the cab is available with air conditioning for added operator comfort.
The elevated sprocket undercarriage improves ride balance and puts more track on the ground for added stability and performance. Heavy components are located low in the machine delivering a low centre of gravity compared to its D7G oval track predecessor. An efficient aluminium bar plate cooling package delivers excellent ambient capability. The system is highly abrasion resistant and designed to minimise plugging.
The elevated sprocket helps make maintenance easier with modular components that are easy to remove/install for service. Segmented sprockets are easy to replace.Tthe twopiece track roller frame has a maintenance-free recoil system, and the sealed and lubricated track helps prevent internal wear and maximise bushing life. To save time on daily maintenance, the D6 GC features grouped service points and a minimal number of daily grease points.
SPECIFICATIONS CAT D6 GC
Engine: Cat 3306B DIT Max Power: 215hp at 2000 rpm Operating weight: 21.6-22.7t Max Blade capacity: 6.1m3
MONITOR YOUR ASSETS & OPERATIONS 24/7 BEST CERTIFIED SOLUTIONS;
• FUEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM. • VIDEO SURVEILLANCE. • FLEET MANAGEMENT SYSTEM. • PARKING & ALARM SENSOR. • TANKS GAUGES. • FUEL LEVEL SENSOR. • GPS TRACKING SYSTEM. • TYRE PRESSURE SENSOR.
HYSTER LAUNCHES LIFT TRUCKS WITH LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
WHY GET IT? ZERO-EMISSION MACHINES OFFER 7-9T OF LIFT CAPACITY WITH 100% CHARGE IN 80 MINUTES
Hyster has launched a new forklift series with fully integrated lithium-ion batteries that offer rapid opportunity charging and performance comparable to diesel engines.
The American manufacturer said the J7.0–9.0XNL series of zero-emissions electric lift trucks offer 7-9t of lift capacity and achieve 100% charge in just 80 minutes. The new trucks have high voltage lithium-ion batteries and the endurance to support three shift operations in demanding industrial applications.
The J7.0–9.0XNL series is suitable for use in several industries, such as brick and block, metals, timber, paper and other heavy-duty industries, which can now “easily bring tough electric lift trucks into their fleet which offer class leading turn radius, fast acceleration, and even more responsive operation”, said a statement from Hyster.
Phil Ireland, programme leader 20/20 Platform, Counterbalance Solutions for Hyster, said: “The launch of this truck series gives tough applications a credible alternative to an IC truck, thanks to the unique combination of a lithium-ion battery, a high voltage drive system, and the use of multi-phase permanent magnetic motors. Operations can expect IC-like capability in terms of productivity, control and autonomy, alongside the added benefit of reduced noise levels, zero emissions and a low Total Cost of Ownership.”
AUGER TORQUE ADDS TO VARIABLE MULCHER RANGE
WHY GET IT? SUITABLE FOR SKID-STEERS EXCAVATORS, QUICK-CHANGE DRUM DROP FEATURE
Auger Torque, has launched two new variable mulcher attachments, the VM1000 and VM1500. The company said its variable mulcher (VM) range provides the user with the versatility of being mounted on both skidsteer loaders and excavators, and also provides a drum drop change feature, which gives users the choice of changing swiftly between a fixed tungsten tooth and swinging hammer drum. This opens up the possibility of undertaking numerous applications on site with only one piece of equipment.
Providing a working width of up to 1.5m, the VM1000 and VM1500 both offer the feature of changing their drums on-site, which enables them to adapt quickly between parent machines for maximum versatility
and minimum downtime.
This is made possible by the ability to attach a skid-steer frame and excavator hitch at the same time, along with a removable pressure gauge and push bar for easy adaptation between parent machines. The fixed tungsten teeth drum gives a robust blunt cutting edge for grinding through thick timber up to 250mm diameter, hedges and branches.
Unique to Auger Torque’s VM series is the ability to drop and change the drum on site for quick change over when there are various types of vegetation to clear. The manufacturer claims this is an industry first. It is also possible to have the mulcher set up for skid-steer loaders and excavators simultaneously to clear low-level growth with a skidsteer, then mulch larger objects from top to ground level with an excavator.
SPECIFICATIONS
AUGER TORQUE VM1000 & VM1500
Working width: 1.5m Cutting depth: 250mm Mounting on: Skid-steer loaders & excavators Change feature: Drum drop
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TRAINED FOR TELEHANDLERS Operators should be properly and specifically trained for and on the telehandler being used, rather than just being generally trained. This includes thoroughly familiarity with the operator’s manual and safety signs on the telehandler, as well as understanding the function and location of all safety devices and controls before beginning operation.
OPERATIONS WITH THE MACHINE CAN BE MADE SAFER BY OBSERVING SOME KEY POINTS BEFORE AND DURING USE TOP TEN: SAEFTY TIPS FOR TELEHANDLERS
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RULES AND REGULATIONS Operators must be made fully aware of all job-site and official safety rules and regulations. It needs to be ensured that they have read and understand these rules and regulations, and are following them at all times. This also includes all applicable local, governmental or provincial regulations that apply to telehandler operation before operating the machine.
HAZARD ASSESSMENT Conduct a hazard assessment of the job-site even before bringing the telehandler to the site, making special note of factors such as dropoffs, holes, slopes, slippery or unstable surfaces, overhead obstacles, power lines and any other hazards. Make a plan to avoid the hazards when operating the machine.
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INSPECTION AND TESTS Perform a pre-operation inspection and function tests on the telehandler before each shift. If there is anything apparently wrong with the machine or a malfunction is discovered, make sure the machine is immediately tagged and removed from service until it can be repaired by a qualified service technician.
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LOAD CAPACITY CHART Do not operate a telehandler without the proper load capacity chart. It is critical that the load chart in the telehandler matches the machine and the attachment being used before any load is lifted. Load charts should always be clearly legible and visible to operators while in the normal operating position.
STABILITY TRIANGLE A telehandler has a stability triangle in which the combined centre of gravity of the machine and the load always needs to be kept. This can be done by making sure the chassis is level before handling a load, keeping the boom and load as low as possible during travel, and operating at speeds that will keep the machine and load under control at all times.
IN-CAB SAFETY While most telehandlers will have ROPS and FOPS safety built-in, these are useless without an operator wearing a seat belt, so make sure the operator is belted in while operating the telehandler. Adjust the seat and steering wheel so that all of the machine’s controls can be easily reached and adjust side and cab mirrors to maximise visibility.
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KNOW YOUR LOAD The centre of gravity and weight of the load should not exceed the telehandler’s or attachment’s maximum capacity as specified in the load chart. Evaluate the dimensions of the load to determine the proper techniques for handling it and always secure the load to minimise the potential for falling debris.
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TIPPING SAFETY In the event that a telehandler is beginning to tip over, operators should remain in the cab and stay in the seat with seat belt fastened and brace for impact by grasping the steering wheel and leaning away from the point of impact. Trying to jump from the machine may lead you to land under it.
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PERSONNEL AND SUSPENDED LOADS When using a telehandler to lift personnel and suspended loads, the manufacturer and most local bodies require extra restrictions on the way it is used. Be sure to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions, as well as to any prevailing local requirements for these applications before starting work.
RISING TO THE OCCASION
THE COVID-19 SITUATION MAY HAVE HIT THE REGIONAL TOWER CRANE SECTOR HARD, BUT COMPANIES SUCH AS NFT AND OTHERS REVEAL HOW THEY ARE READY TO FACE THE TIMES WITH EMPHASIS ON PROPER MITIGATION AND SAFETY MEASURES ALONG WITH SERVICE CONTINUITY AND NEW MODEL INTRODUCTIONS
Among the defining At NFT, the regional tower crane characteristics of the powerhouse and the world’s largest Potain GCC’s region’s con- dealer, deputy general manager Nagham Al struction landscape Zahlawi, explains: “Covid-19 has delayed a lot is the local penchant of projects, put some major tenders on hold for building ever tall- and, most importantly, delayed payments er structures, whether from clients. While construction was declared residential or com- a vital sector in the GCC and so was not mercial. And this has subject to lockdowns, sites continued to be meant that the region operational and so did we. But several projects has emerged as one were forced to stop for at least a month or of the most important more because of Covid-19 outbreaks among global areas for tower cranes. workers, whose living conditions put them
Not very long ago, it was reported that at risk. As a result, contractors had to adhere around 25% pf the world’s tower cranes to strict standards for the working and living were working in Dubai alone. While those conditions of their workers, which lead to numbers may have gone down since the unaccounted increases in costs. They then heydays of the property boom, the GCC tried to find other ways to mitigate this still retains great importance as a market increase, such as re-negotiating contracts, for tower crane companies. sometimes even towards the end of projects.”
That importance may have come under At NFT, meanwhile, it has been a time of attack due to the recent Covid-19 crisis, redoubled effort, says Al Zahlawi. “Since day which has challenged tower crane suppliers one of the pandemic, we haven’t stopped in the region to keep working through the working. We assured our clients and employees pandemic but with an impact on cash flows that as long as it is safe to do so, we will be due to some clients stopping work and working. We tested our entire staff using the going into lockdowns. advanced testing facilities we are lucky to have
