A supplement of:
EARTH G MOVIN REPORT PLUS
CKS A R T W E N G IN V R CA TCHES UP
CMME CA HIGHWAY WITH OFF ER BKT ’S MD K T YRE-M A
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G A GLIM UPCOMIN ERS D N A W E N RTHMOV A E C I R T E L EC
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01 02 MANAGING DIRECTOR RAZ ISLAM raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5471 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR VIJAYA CHERIAN vijaya.cherian@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5713 EDITORIAL EDITOR ANIRBAN BAGCHI anirban.bagchi@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5715 SUB EDITOR AELRED DOYLE aelred.doyle@cpitrademedia.com ADVERTISING & MARKETING SALES EXECUTIVE TOM BROMLEY tom.bromley@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5496 MARKETING MANAGER SHEENA SAPSFORD sheena.sapsford@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5498 DESIGN ART DIRECTOR SIMON COBON simon.cobon@cpitrademedia.com DESIGNER PERCIVAL MANALAYSAY percival.manalaysay@cpitrademedia.com CIRCULATION & PRODUCTION PRODUCTION MANAGER VIPIN V. VIJAY vipin.vijay@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5713 WEB DEVELOPMENT MOHAMMAD AWAIS SADIQ SIDDIQUI FOUNDER DOMINIC DE SOUSA (1959-2015)
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SECTOR ON TRACK This year has been a seminal one for the world of construction equipment in general and the earthmoving segment in particular. Indeed, every time it is a Bauma year, some amount of excitement can be expected in the world of machinery, with almost all manufacturers reserving their best and latest for unveiling in Munich. While this year was no exception, there was also a clear trend in the global earthmoving sector – the move towards electric drives, alternative fuels and new operation technology. The Middle East may not be prime territory yet for these latest advancements, or even look like adopting them anytime soon, but we would like to be pleasantly surprised. Which is why we take a look at some of the latest developments in this report, including electric- and methanepowered models, and advanced remote operations technology. We also catch up with JCB to discuss the bigger kit from a company famous for slightly smaller models. Meanwhile, off-the-road tyre specialist, BKT, underlines the importance of the right gear for the wheels. All in all, it looks like the earthmoving sector is on track!
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Licensed by TECOM to registered company, CPI Trade Publishing FZ LLC whose registered office is 207 – 209, Building 3, Dubai Studio City, Dubai, UAE. www.cpitrademedia.com © Copyright 2019 CPI. All rights reserved. A supplement to Construction Machinery Middle East. While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors therein.
Anirban Bagchi Editor, CMME
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02
COVER STORY E ARTH MOVING REP ORT 2019
The popularity of JCB’s backhoe loaders and telehandlers is enabling the brand to draw customers to its larger earthmovers, like the 20t 220X.
“We have a very big market here in backhoes and telehandlers, but we are very good in excavators and wheeled loaders as well – and growing very fast… As far as volumes in the bigger equipment categories are concerned, we sell in substantial numbers. And we have an extensive range of advanced, capable machines, which are very well respected by customers and end-users”
03
JCB ON TRACK
THE BRITISH BRAND IS USING THE POPULARITY OF ITS SMALL AND COMPACT EQUIPMENT TO DRAW IN CUSTOMERS TO ITS EXTENSIVE RANGE OF LARGE EXCAVATORS AND WHEELED LOADERS AS IT UPS ITS GAME IN THE EARTHMOVING SECTOR
T
o be seen as a specialist is a good thing, until it’s not. Especially if you are a generalist, and a good one at that. Machinery heavyweight JCB is a case in point. So complete is its domination of small and middle-weight segments characterised by the backhoe loader and telescopic handler, that it often escapes popular attention that the illustrious British brand makes a plethora of big earthmoving equipment – from large excavators to high-capacity wheeled loaders and much in between. In a region like the Middle East, where it appears that almost every third piece of construction equipment that you see is a backhoe loader, it is easy to understand why JCB is thought of as it is. The high brand visibility that its backhoes and telehandlers give it, while making the JCB name famous, also have the effect of overshadowing its larger earthmoving range. CMME put this question to Rajbir Sandhu, regional general manager at JCB Middle East, to know what this little dichotomy in brand perception means for the company. “Yes, we have a very big market here in backhoes and telehandlers, but we are very good in excavators and wheeled loaders as well – and growing very fast. While it’s true that we don’t sell as many excavators as we do backhoes, that is the nature of the industry, where there will naturally be more smaller equipment sold than big ones. “Also, the visibility factor could also be because the large excavators do not usually work within cities as much as backhoes and telehandlers may do, and hence are not so visible. We don’t see as many large excavators
04
COVER STORY E ARTH MOVING REP ORT 2019
within cities of any brand as we do the smaller stuff, because you can see them only when new buildings or projects are coming up, and that too only initially for a short period of time. Contrast this to a backhoe loader, which is used throughout the lifecycle of a project and also used for maintenance and other frequent urban jobs. “As far as volumes in the bigger equipment categories are concerned, we still sell in substantial numbers. And we have an extensive range of advanced, capable machines, which are very well respected by customers and end-users.” Speaking of respect for the brand, he adds: “In fact, the brand recognition we have from our domination of the backhoes and telehandler segment actually helps us sell the bigger machines. By using our backhoes and telehandlers, customers appreciate the reliability of our machines and also get to know the service capability of our dealers, all of whom across the region maintain very, very high standards of service and support. So this actually helps us sell more excavators and wheeled loaders. In fact, it has often happened that a customer who is already using our
JCB’s mini excavator range in the region covers 800kg to 6-7t and the company is watching the segment keenly with an eye for expansion.
smaller machines has come back to buy our bigger equipment.” Sandhu then proceeds to give us an overview of the range of earthmoving equipment that JCB sells in the region, comprising the large excavators, both tracked and wheeled, and wheeled loaders. “The 37t is our largest capacity class for tracked excavators. The
Middle East market is mostly a 20t one, though, with more than half the large excavator market comprising the 20t. We are focused on the 20t and 30t, and sometimes the 37t, but our largest seller is the 20t like almost everyone else. “There are subtle variations by country. For example, in the UAE, the 22t, 30t and even the 40t sell well, along with the 20t. In Saudi Arabia, the 20t commands more than half the excavator market, but then there is a big range available, from 10t to 50t to 70t, if you take into account the market’s needs and the offering from all the brands. “Saudi remains our largest market despite the slowdown, but we are seeing growth coming back and we believe the Kingdom will grow this year to show a positive market. JCB also has a wide offering in the wheeled loader segment, with the 426, 456, 455, and 467. “The 467 is our biggest, with a 4.5 cubic metre bucket. The smallest we sell in this region are the 422 and 432, but the 467 and 455 bring in the highest volumes for us here, owing to their capacities falling in the range that is the most preferred in the Middle East. For the 467 the bucket is a 4.5 cubic metre one and for the 455 it is 3.1-3.5,” Sandhu explains. He adds that JCB also sells wheeled excavators in the Middle East, with its two models available in the 17.5t and 20t range. “These are the two most in-demand specification here in the region, especially in the UAE, where we’ve seen good success last year. And now that success with the wheeled excavators is extending in some other countries in the region, too. So, we can be sure that JCB’s wheeled excavators are wellaccepted in the region.” When it comes to mini excavators, JCB’s range extends from 800kg to 6-7t, Sandhu informs. “This market keeps fluctuating; it used to be 1.52.5t and now it’s mainly 3t and above. We expect this market to grow to 5t and above. The mini excavator market here is fluctuating in the right direction.
15%
05
Increase in c JCB’s 220X ab size of excavator, as the com focuses on pany operator comfort
JCB 220X
FOCUSING ON OPERATOR COMFORT JCB has developed its
packaging; central main
Burnhope, says: “With
incredibly low 68dB(A) noise
new 220X 20t crawler
boom mounting for
the next generation
level inside the operator’s
excavator as the first in
increased digging accuracy
220X, JCB has moved
cab, down from 73dB(A) on
the next generation of
and durability; intuitive,
to a totally new level of
the previous generation.
JCB tracked machines for
ergonomically-designed cab
product development and
the global construction
with simple user interface;
machine assembly, that will
continues with ergonomically
market. Over a four-year
and stronger side doors
benefit all of our excavator
designed controls hat are
development period, the
for greater strength and
customers in the field.
100% operator-focused.
company benchmarked all
increased protection
There has been a total focus
This attention to detail
To the right-hand side of
on the operator environment
the operator is an all-new
and the cab is a completely
command pod, bringing
requirements from customers
new structure, which will be
together all switches and
around the world.
used across the X series range.
controls into a single seat-
leading competitors and collected more than 1,000
The new machines feature a 15% larger global cab with integral ROPS
JCB’s chief innovation and growth officer, Tim
It is 100mm longer and a full one metre wide, making it 15% larger overall than on previous
mounted unit. A 7-inch tilt-adjustable monitor has been provided with intuitive menus and functionality.
machines. The cab
The monitor is accessed
offering
incorporates the
through an automotive-
reduced
ROPS frame within
style rotary controller.
noise levels; a
the structure and
200mm wider
has flat glazing
operating weight and a
all round. Most
maximum bucket capacity
structure,
upper structure delivering improved
impressively, the 220X boasts an
The 220X has a 24.7t
of 1.25m3, and its engine develops 129kW of power.
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COVER STORY E ARTH MOVING REP ORT 2019
“Globally, JCB sells a full range of minis. In places such as Europe, where minis are popular, we have an extensive line-up of the products. It is undeniable, though, that the Middle East mini excavator market is expanding nicely. We started with a three-model range, which we have since expanded, and this year or the next we plan to widen the range here further, bringing in more models.” JCB is keenly watching the mini excavator market in the region and has its eyes on certain pockets where it sees greater prospects of a rise. “Minis mainly work when the cities are quite done. Dubai uses a lot of them, as does Bahrain, and we expect they will rise in Qatar too for work such as urban landscaping. We even sell our smallest backhoe – the 1CX - for landscaping and allied activities in the Middle East. It will take time for the mini excavator market in Saudi and Oman to reach substantial volumes. Minis are for small landscaping and municipality jobs, where bigger machines cannot go. For built-up areas,” says Sandhu. Moving on to telematics offerings, Sandhu explains: “We were among the earliest to offer our customers telematic solutions and it’s going very well. In fact, we have data centres in every dealership. Our dealers are very big and established business houses, who have their own data room set-ups.” The JCB telematics system is called Live Link, Sandhu says, and every dealer has his own Live Link area with up to three dedicated people commanding the room to monitor where the issues are coming from and which machines are showing errors or are due for service. “They get in touch with the customers concerned and advise on preventive measures based on the data on the screens in front of them. They close the loop by following up on any problem until it is solved. This is one of our strengths, that our dealers are well established and have invested a lot into this.”
JCB HYDRADIG
INNOVATIVE ODDBALL JCB’s Hydradig is a new
combination of a variable
rough terrain traction and
tool-carrying solution,
piston pump and a variable
stability. Hydradig offers a
which brings new levels of
piston drive motor, to a
tight turning circle of just
innovation and engineering
central transfer box and
3,946mm on single tyres,
excellence to the growing
then to both axles. This
rising to 4,511mm when
compact wheeled machine
driveline layout offers a
equipped with a front-
sector of the market
step-less 0-40km/h speed
mounted dozer blade.
and is ideally suited to
range, with no requirement
The machine can be
urban construction,
for multiple gears or a break
ordered with single tyres,
highway maintenance
in tractive effort as speeds
extra-wide flotation tyres
and municipal operations,
increase or decrease. A
or twin tyres on each axle.
says the company.
20km/h maximum speed
Customers can also choose
model is also available
between any combination
to suit local markets.
of dozer blades and
Presently available only in the Western markets,
stabiliser legs at either
JCB designed the machine
A near 50-50 weight
to deliver on five important
distribution between the
end. Hydradig can also be
criteria: visibility, stability,
axles and a long wheelbase
supplied with a choice of
manoeuvrability, mobility
delivers improved stability,
towing hitches, connected
and serviceability.
increasing operator
to the chassis or through
confidence. A 2,650mm
the dozer blade and capable
all-wheel drive and four-
wheelbase provides a
of pulling up to 3.5t.
wheel steer chassis and is
superior ride with secure
powered by JCB’s proven
handling. The machine
tailswing of just 120mm
Ecomax Stage IIIB/Tier
is equipped with three
allows it to rotate and
4 Interim diesel engines,
steering modes as standard.
change attachments within
delivering 108hp. The
Two-wheel steering for
a single road carriageway.
engine is side-mounted,
security at road speeds,
placing the centre of gravity
four-wheel and crab
an innovative design which
up to 1.5m below that of
steering, providing
allows the operator to see
competitive 10t machines,
maximum manoeuvrability
within 1m of the machine’s
JCB says. The hydrostatic
on site. The front axle has
footprint at ground level
drive works through a
+/- 8° of oscillation for
from within the cab.
The Hydradig boasts an
The machine’s reduced
The Hydradig’s cab sports
08
FUTURE TECH E ARTHMOVING REP ORT 2019
DISTANCE NO OBJECT
AS THE FIRST TO USE 5G FOR WORLDWIDE ‘TELEOPERATION’, DOOSAN DEMONSTRATED THE DISRUPTIVE POWER OF REMOTE OPERATION OF MACHINERY AT BAUMA 2019, POINTING TO THE WAY AHEAD
T
he general future of construction equipment, and of earthmoving in particular, may not be on the job-site. Instead, it may well be unfolding within the four walls of the offices - or may be even the living rooms – of equipment owners or operators, given the disruptive powers of a new remote operation technology demonstrated by Doosan. Advances made by modern 5G technology have now made it possible for the first time to do complex operations remotely to a level of real-time precision that was previously not feasible. What was unthinkable only a decade or so ago is now the reality looming for everyone – fully remote-controlled operation of machinery. And the most striking part of the new developments is that this remote operation is not as simple – or limiting - as wielding a hand-held remote control a few
metres away from a piece of machinery like operating a toy car, but it is complex and sophisticated enough for the machine to be operated from another part of the globe, thousands of kilometres away. Harnessing the power of 5G to remotely operate a machine from anywhere in the world is now possible and has been shown publicly. In what was one of the highlights of Bauma 2019 in Munich, Germany, Doosan became probably the first manufacturer to use 5G technology for worldwide ‘TeleOperation’ of construction machines. Doosan has coined the term TeleOperation to describe the operation of construction equipment from a remote station. At Bauma, remote really meant remote - operating a Doosan DX380LC-5 40t crawler excavator located over 8500km away in Incheon in South Korea from an operator’s booth on the Doosan stand at the show.
TeleOperation formed part of Doosan’s exciting stand display at Bauma under the banner of ‘Powered by Innovation’. The technology used by Doosan has been codeveloped with LG U+, the South Korean telecommunications and data services company. The TeleOperation demonstration on the Doosan stand was the first to remotely control a machine across such a large distance between locations, which have a time difference of eight hours, using 5G telecommunications technology. For TeleOperation to function properly, it is essential to deliver live video streaming at the operator’s station in a reliable way that minimises time lag in the system for the operator. With very high reliability and low latency - or signal delay - the new 5G network overcomes these issues in the Doosan system, providing 10 times faster bandwidth and 10 times lower latency than
09 the 4G network, says Doosan. Special features incorporated include a low-latency video transmission module with fast video transfer with encoding and decoding, an important factor in reducing the time delay. LG U+ has also introduced new modules providing low latency image processing to further minimise the time delay. Another factor in creating more effective remote control is the use of Doosan’s innovative electrohydraulic technology in the DX380LC-5 excavator. The DX380LC-5 excavator being remotely controlled at Bauma was still a standard machine, which allowed Doosan to guarantee the performance and the compatibility of third party attachments and other equipment installed on it. It was also possible to carry out both normal operation and TeleOperation with the same machine.
The 5G TeleOperation system was demonstrated throughout the duration of the show, but there were set times every day to give visitors to Doosan’s stand an opportunity to try the system out for themselves. Because the LG U+ platform provides a 5G connection 5-10 times faster than current 4G systems, the operator has the same real time control of the remote excavator and with the same high accuracy as he would if he were sitting inside the machine’s cab himself. To aid in the process,3D machine guidance, real time diagnostics and a full display were all available at the TeleOperation control booth. While it can be used for general earthmoving applications, the new TeleOperation system is ideal for operating excavators in dangerous applications such as industrial waste disposal, involving hazardous, toxic or radioactive substances.
It is also useful for work on collapsing waste piles and in areas where there are buried mines and other munitions. Safety can be further increased via the zoning and area limitation functions available through the Doosan TeleOperation system. Besides being of particular importance for jobs in hazardous environments where considerations of safety would prevent operators from working on-site, the new TeleOperation system also opens up a range of commercial and business possibilities, including faster project completion times. After a day’s shift has ended with an onsite operator, work can continue with another operator taking over through remote controlled operation from another time zone, potentially opening the way for non-stop work and changing the way the industry operates.
A visitor at Doosan’s stand at Bauma 2019, Munich, uses the TeleOpearation system to operate the DX380LC-5 excavator in Incheon, Korea.
10
CONCEPT VEHICLE E ARTHMOVING REP ORT 2019
FUTURE CASE
A METHANE-POWERED WHEEL LOADER CONCEPT FROM CASE NOT ONLY USES RENEWABLE FUEL BUT ALSO REIMAGINES EARTHMOVING EQUIPMENT DESIGN, POINTING TO AN ALTERNATIVE FUTURE
T
he way to the future is one of the most important themes for equipment manufacturers at the moment, as can be seen from several new introductions of both concept and production machines by the major brands over the past several months. Indeed, this year’s edition of Bauma saw a veritable crowd of new models and technologies being displayed with the future in mind, mainly concepts, but some even ready for production. And the emphasis for such introductions was being green. Case Construction Equipment joined the bandwagon with its own unique offering: the highlight of its stand at Bauma 2019 was the unveiling of the world’s first wheeled loader concept to runs entirely on alternative and renewable fuel. Case says the new machine, a methane-powered wheeled loader called
the ProjectTETRA prototype, “reimagines wheeled loader design, marking a clear departure from anything seen in construction equipment to date”. The concept includes a methanepowered engine specially designed and developed by sister brand FPT Industrial for construction applications. With a maximum 230hp, it delivers the same power and torque as its equivalent diesel engine found in the Case 821G wheeled loader. The concept can be powered by biomethane produced in biodigesters from waste such as food, wood chippings and animal waste. With carbon-neutral production, biomethane provides a closed-loop, virtuous energy cycle, converting waste into useful energy. “We’ve been researching sustainable fuel sources for our construction machinery for many years,” says Carl Gustaf Goränsson, president, Case CE. “Biomethane was the
most logical choice for the wheel loader. We needed a fuel that could provide the drive and power that our customers demand. The fuel needed to be readily available, easy to refuel and power through a full day of work. We wouldn’t compromise on performance, so we set our designers quite a challenge. “We were fortunate to work very closely with sister brand FPT Industrial, pioneers in developing sustainably-fuelled powertrains, with over 40,000 gas-powered engines produced to date. This technology is already tried and tested in other CNH Industrial brands, with some 28,000 methane-powered Iveco trucks and buses on the roads today.” ProjectTETRA not only uses a sustainable energy source but also benefits the environment in other ways. The methanepowered wheel loader concept produces 95% less CO2 when running on biomethane, 90% less nitrogen dioxides and 99% lower
11 particulate matter than a diesel-powered equivalent. It delivers an 80% reduction in overall emissions and also achieves a 50% reduction in drive-by noise levels. “But biomethane isn’t the only option,” explains Goränsson. “ProjectTETRA will run on network methane too, keeping emissions lower than diesel even if onsite biomethane production is not an option. This is important due to changing regulations in some regions.” Although sustainability was a huge factor in ProjectTETRA’s definition, the design team wanted to showcase the very best of Case’s practical innovation, with the focus firmly on the operator and productivity. “Automation and digitisation were key drivers in our design process,” reveals David Wilkie, director of the CNH Industrial Design Centre. “We are a future-focused business, and these are two of our key strategic pillars.
Case’s concept wheeled loader, Project TETRA, has a futuristic cab and tyres, and is powered by methane for 80% reduction in emissions with 50% less noise.
These elements are the drivers for safer and more productive machines. ProjectTETRA was a blank sheet so we could be as creative as possible in including the very latest technologies that matter.” ProjectTETRA’s cab features wraparound glazing and a high visibility roof panel, increasing the total glazed area by 16% when compared to a standard wheel loader. Allaround visibility is achieved with viewing cameras instead of wing mirrors. These are automatically linked to the direction of the machine and viewed on the A-pillar mounted displays. The uncluttered design means all controls are accessed through ergonomic joysticks and an integrated, armrestmounted, colour touchscreen monitor. The new seat automatically extends and pivots to facilitate entry upon door opening, returning to the operating position
immediately after the operator is seated, an industry first. With lumbar support, weightcompensated suspension and active heating and cooling, it ensures operator comfort throughout the shift, reducing fatigue. A partnership with Michelin led to the development of innovative airless concept tyres for ProjectTETRA. Made of pure rubber and a patented composite material in a honeycomb spoke design, the tyre/wheel fusion also features built-in suspension. The lightweight and robust structure has been designed to withstand the extreme conditions present in construction environments. In addition, the airless tyres reduce overall machine weight and a large footprint delivers low contact pressure. Advanced connectivity is achieved with integrated sensors, providing a stream of real-time data to both the operator and the control room.
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INTERVIEW E ARTH MOVING REP ORT 2019
CARVING NEW TRACKS RAJIV PODDAR, JOINT MANAGING DIRECTOR OF BKT TYRES, TELLS CMME ABOUT THE OFF-THE-ROAD TYRE SPECIALIST’S LATEST ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND ON THE GLOBAL STAGE Please give a brief overview of BKT as a company and its products. BKT was started in 1987-88 in India by my grandfather (name please?). We began as makers of tractors and graduated into autorickshaws and three-wheelers. In 1995 we decided to change our strategy and get into off-highway tyre manufacturing and since then we have not looked back. In the last 12-13 years, we have grown our turnover to roughly around $800m and we now specialise in off-highway tyres, from agricultural to mining and industrial. We cover the entire spectrum of off-highway tyres, including sand-tyres and tyres for military applications. While BKT is a company run by professionals, we are very much a family firm, with my father Arvind Poddar at the helm as the chairman. I am the third generation to enter into the business. We have several manufacturing locations spread throughout India - one in Gujarat, two in north India and Rajasthan and one in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. In addition to this, we have our own mould shop where we make our moulds. Recently, we have gone into carbon black manufacturing, mainly for our own consumption, and we are expecting to start firing the boilers this month. While commercial production is the goal, it will
first be for self-consumption and then we will grow and get into the market. Can you take us through your range of tyres available in the Middle East? We have our entire product range available in the Middle East. Mainly, though, the industrial, construction and mining tyres segments have really picked up. Underground and opencast mining are big areas for us. At Automechanika in Dubai we launched a slew of new products in the tipper range and the low-platform trailer (LPT) range. And, of course, at Bauma this year we introduced our biggest tyre ever. Basically, our entire range of tyres is available in the Middle East, just as it is in other markets. How has your performance been in the ME market? What is your position in this region and how do your view your future prospects? In the Middle East we are represented by wholesalers who then further distribute to retail counters for BKT products. We are quite optimistic about this market based on how things have progressed here, and how we see things moving ahead. We feel our prospects are good here. Our distributors have a wide reach in this region and are increasing their market
13 BKT has emerged as one of the bestknown names in off-the-road tyres and is an OEM supplier to big equipment brands like Case, JCB and Cat.
“You have to give customers what they need. You have to understand precisely what their requirement is and how can you make your product better to suit their needs more, so that they get better results�
14
INTERVIEW E ARTH MOVING REP ORT 2019
penetration, which we are working on with them.
AUTOMECHANIKA DUBAI
GOING FOR A SPIN BKT used the
The EARTHMAX SR 423
recently-concluded
has been designed for
Automechanika show in
increased load capacity,
Dubai to launch some
and the reinforced
new products into the
bead makes it the ideal
Middle East market.
tyre for heavy-duty
This year’s novelty was
service applications.
the new size 12.00 R
BKT also showcased
24 of the company’s
the EARTHMAX SR
EARTHMAX SR 423. This
23, in size 20.5 R 25, a
tyre, which has been
tyre specifically built
specifically engineered
for motor graders and
for tipper trucks and
loaders with high front
dumpers operating
and lateral traction,
both on and off the
and an extended
road, is a product that
operating life-cycle.
is particularly required
The EARTHMAX SR
in the Middle East,
33, meanwhile, was
says the company.
displayed as a radial
The tyre is already
tyre for multi-purpose
available in two other
trucks, with enhanced
sizes - 10.00 R 20 and
grip on soft and sandy
11.00 R 20 - specifically
ground. This tyre is
developed for tipper
extremely resistant to
trucks and dumpers
snags and punctures,
employed in mining and
says BKT, and offers high
transport operations
stability. On display at
under the most
Automechanika Dubai
demanding conditions.
was size 365/80 R 20.
According to BKT, the robust tread pattern with non-directional lugs provides excellent
What is your service and back-up proposition like in the Middle East? Our wholesaler themselves act as service providers, as required for any service. The network for this is already in place on the ground here. Whenever a BKT customer in the Middle East, as elsewhere, needs any support, help is always at hand and prompt to be provided. Which is the most common type of tyre you’re selling in the Middle East market? We sell to both the industrial and earthmoving segments in good numbers in the Middle East. Most of the tyres we sell in this region are for dumpers, backhoe loaders and special applications. We are also OEM suppliers to all the leading manufacturers across the globe, several of whom enjoy great popularity in the Middle East market. In agriculture we are OEM suppliers to Case-New Holland and Fergusson tractors; in the industrial and construction side we have the likes of JCB as a client; on the port side we supply to many manufacturers of port application machines; and on the mining side we supply OEM equipment to brands such as Caterpillar
traction on any terrain while the large shoulder minimises the risk of cuts and chips even under toughest operating conditions, and on adverse and inaccessible paths. The all-steel casing structure increases resistance and durability leading to a longer product lifecycle.
The Middle East’s environment, with the heat and other job-site conditions, presents unique operational challenges. Do you customise your products in any way to meet these challenges? It‘s common knowledge that the Middle East has its own challenges, so we developed certain products especially for the region, such as our sand tyres. Also, since the temperatures get really high, you have to make your tyres in such a way that they should be able to sustain and work under such conditions.
BKT believes in providing our customers with the right tyre for the right application. To do this we often make changes in our products - sometimes small ones here and there or sometimes more detailed ones – to make them suitable for a particular application in a particular geography or environment. Some of your competitors consult with clients on their needs and then manufacture tyres specifically for particular jobs. Do you do that or is it more of the shelf? Yes, we do. It’s no different for us because this is the way the market operates. You have to give customers what they need. Even if you have a heat-resistant and cut-resistant standard product, you can’t go in and ask a customer simply what size he desires it in. You have to understand precisely what their requirement is and how can you make your product better to suit their needs more, so that they get better results. So, we have to work very closely with the end-users through our service providers and channel partners, obtain the proper
15
feedback and then supply the tyres according to the need. So that also boils down to your research and development capability. Can you tell us more about your R&D facilities? In 2017 we opened our R&D facilities in our factory in Bhuj. We can do all sorts of compound engineering and
product development that we want in the facility, whether it is on the raw materials side, the compounds side or the product side. Because of this R&D initiative we were able to get into carbon black production, which is a vital component of tyres. We now develop our own carbon black in this facility. We have about 100 trained technical
Rajiv Poddar (left), joint managing director, says BKT is constantly refining its tyres through research and development to satisfy end users.
BAUMA 2019
UNLEASHING A BEHEMOTH BKT took the field at
Centre stage on
safely and was designed
Bauma 2019 with an
BKT’s stand at the show
for rigid dump trucks
entire team of specialized
clearly belonged to
engaged under the
EARTHMAX tyres. The
the EARTHMAX SR 46,
most complex and
range of radial tyres on
available in a 33.00 R 51
adverse conditions
display was specifically
size, the largest tyre that
in hard and rocky
designed to achieve
BKT has ever built. With a
environments,
better ground load
diameter of over 3m and a
such as mines.
distribution for dump
length of 894mm, the tyre
Its special tread
trucks, wheel loaders,
weighs a whopping 2.4t.
design, block
dozers, graders and
Such giant dimensions
lug pattern and
multi-purpose vehicles.
hardly went unnoticed
circumferential
The world preview of
by Bauma visitors.
grooves yield excellent
the superstar in the BKT
“EARTHMAX SR 46 is
cornering performance
EARTHMAX line-up was
particularly suited for
and reduced wear and
particularly big news.
transporting heavy loads
tear,” said a BKT statement.
personnel working in the facility doing three things: collecting data from the market about what is required and drawing inferences out of that data; incorporating those inferences in our products; and testing the products made through this process. All our products go through over 450 types of tests across the lifecycle of their development and production, so that’s part of what we do at our R&D facility. BKT also recently expanded its European headquarters in Italy. Please tell us more about this facility and how it fits into your operations.The Italian office is our marketing HQ for Europe, so we have a lot of our marketing and communications strategies developed from that facility. We also have field engineers and field servicemen based in the Italian office, helping our service providers who work along with our teams. It is also close to the ISMA test track in Treviglio, which we use as one of our testing sites, so the field engineers work closely with them. The Italy office is also primarily a marketing hub and is our centre for raising brand awareness globally, including in the Middle East. So, things like artwork and brand building activities are all routed out of that office.
16
NEW TECHNOLOGY EARTHMOVING REPORT 2019
FUTURE PERFECT
WITH THE SIMULTANEOUS RISE OF MODERN ELECTRIC TECHNOLOGY AND THE NEED TO MEET EMISSION AND GREEN STANDARDS, MANUFACTURERS ARE STARTING TO EMBRACE ELECTRIC EQUIPMENT IN A BIG WAY. WE BRING YOU A GLIMPSE OF SOME NEW AND UPCOMING KIT
N
ot long ago, it seemed inconceivable that an electric earthmoving machine could be effective and practical at any jobsite, beyond just being lip-service tokens of the project’s “green” intentions. With the progress of technology, especially battery technology, in the last few years, it is increasingly becoming clear that the day is not far off when electric-powered kit will outperform those with internal combustion engines. The major global manufacturers are now starting to mainstream their electric research projects and introduce machines that are capable of taking over from diesel equipment seamlessly, without any difference whatsoever in productivity. Some, such as Volvo, have made bold commitments to move away from diesel completely in their compact and mini earthmoving ranges, and look all set to do so going by their latest introductions. Others, like Wacker Neuson, have long championed electric, and yet others, such as Bobcat, have found the fray lucrative enough to join it with meticulously developed machines. While the Middle East lags the rest of the world in adopting green kit, we present here some new production machines and soon-to-be-introduced models that make for a convincing argument for adoption in this region especially for indoor and special jobs - with their long uptimes and performance on-par with diesel machines.
At the heart of Wacker Neuson’s “zeroemission series” is a lithium-ion battery (inset), and technology such as regenarative braking.
17 WACKER NEUSON & KRAMER
GOING FOR ZERO In the design and
series” among
development of their zero-
the earthmoving
emission products, Wacker
machines is the
Neuson and Kramer say
wheel dumper DW15e.
they make no compromises
as needed and minimise energy consumption. When braking the machine or when driving downhill, the energy is fed
“At the forefront of the
regarding performance or
design work, alongside our
electric mini-excavators
back into the battery through
available running time.
new zero-emission products,
are real alternatives to
recuperation technology.
were our customers,” says
conventional machines when
The energy is therefore not
simple and comfortable
Alexander Greschner, sales
working in areas sensitive
converted into heat but
handling, diverse application
director of the Wacker
to sound and emissions.”
used to charge the battery.
areas and a high cost
Neuson Group. “Due to
The articulated electric
efficiency, the development
the tightening question
wheel dumper DW15e with
earthmoving product
engineers exploited the
of emissions, in particular
four-wheel drive and a payload
range is completed with a
potential of new technologies
within inner city areas, we
of up to 1.5t, is equipped
broad range of excavators
to the maximum, says Wacker
are seeing an increasing
with an electric motor for
and electric wheeled
Neuson, the parent company
demand for emission-free
the drive system and another
loaders, such as the Kramer
that owns both brands.
solutions. Even the electrically
for the work hydraulics in
5055e and the Wacker
operated wheel dumper
order to appropriately and
Neuson WL20e and the
DW15e and two completely
independently take on output
track dumper DT10e.
To provide end-users with
The latest additions to the group’s “zero-emission
The group’s zero-emission
18
NEW TECHNOLOGY EARTHMOVING REPORT 2019
BOBCAT
WORLD’S FIRST ELECTRIC SINGLE TONNER working conditions.”
Bobcat launched the
offers clear customer
world’s first 1t electric
benefits. Whilst it is
mini-excavator at
extremely challenging
advanced lithium-
Bauma this year,
to fit a complete electric
ion, maintenance-
introducing a machine
solution in the 1t
free battery pack
that combines zero
class, this gives us the
with an advanced
emissions, low noise and
benefit to scale it up
management system.
a width of just 71cm.
easier to other larger
Using an external 400V
products in the future.
supercharger, the
Jarry Fiser, miniexcavator product
“By coupling the E10e
The E10e has an
E10e can operate a full
line director, Doosan
to an optional external
working day with normal
Bobcat EMEA, says:
Bobcat supercharger
work breaks and can
“In developing the
while operators are on
be recharged to 80% of
E10e, we are meeting
normal work breaks, the
its capacity in less than
a market demand - not
E10e can operate for a
two hours. The battery
just demonstrating
full working day or can
can also be recharged
the technology for
continuously work for
overnight with the
the sake of it. We are
four hours on a single
on-board charger from
providing a product that
charge in standard
a standard 230V grid.
19
VOLVO CE
KEEPING A COMMITMENT The machines,
higher efficiency in
Construction Equipment
which are the first
both the systems and
(Volvo CE) declared
to be shown from a
its commitment to
new electric range of
going fully electric in
Volvo branded compact
its compact excavator
excavators and wheeled
and wheel loader range
loaders, deliver zero
with an
and stopping new
exhaust emissions,
electric
diesel engine-based
significantly lower noise
motor to power the
in the machine’s regular
option, requiring more
development of these
levels, reduce energy
hydraulics to move
applications, including
powerful grid access,
models post 2020.
costs, improve efficiency
the machine and
light infrastructure
will also be available.
With the unveiling of
and lower maintenance
the attachment. The
work, gardening,
Melker Jernberg,
its first commercial
requirements compared
batteries store enough
landscaping and
president Volvo CE,
zero-emissions electric
to conventional kit.
electric energy to
agriculture. The L25
says: “Unveiling our first
power the ECR25 for
also incorporates two
commercial electric
Not long ago, Volvo
compact excavator and
To make the ECR25
the entire machine, says Volvo CE. Both machines can be charged overnight via a hours of operation
regular household plug socket. A fast charging
loader – the ECR25
and L25 electric, the
eight hours in its most
electric motors, one
machines marks a
and L25 - at Bauma,
combustion engines
common applications,
for the drivetrain and
significant moment
Volvo took the first step
have been replaced with
such as utility work.
one for the hydraulics.
in Volvo CE’s journey
towards delivering on
lithium-ion batteries.
Decoupling the
towards building a more
that promise.
The ECR25 is fitted
subsystems has led to
sustainable future.”
The L25’s lithium-ion batteries allow for eight
20
NEW LAUNCHES E ARTH MOVING REP ORT 2019
MOVERS AND SHAKERS
CMME PRESENTS A SELECTION OF NEW EARTHMOVING MACHINES RELEASED IN THE MARKET RECENTLY IN VARIOUS SEGMENTS, FROM COMPACT AND WHEELED TO LARGE CRAWLERS, THAT CAN BECOME ASSETS FOR ANY FLEET CAT 920K COMPACT WHEELED LOADER
SMALL CAT, BIG PRODUCTIVITY The new Cat 920K compact
power modes: Eco or
management system, which
lock controls. The joystick
wheeled loader, with a
Standard. In Eco mode, the
balances performance and
also accommodates
net-power rating of 99hp,
engine delivers enhanced fuel
fuel efficiency, adding power
controls for two- and
reflects significant product
economy by operating at a
when the machine senses high
three- hydraulic systems,
enhancements that contribute
lower maximum engine speed
demands, such as climbing
including proportional
to high productivity, versatility,
(1,925 rpm). Standard mode
grades. On-demand power
control of auxiliary circuits.
operator convenience, safety,
allows the engine to operate
adjustment means optimum
and serviceability. New
at speeds to 2,350 rpm,
productivity and hydraulic
for the standard primary
features allow operators to
providing more wheel torque
speed under load. Fuel-saving
display provides pertinent
tailor machine performance
and more hydraulic power
features include an on-demand
operating information at a
to individual preferences
in both transmission ranges
cooling fan that provides fast
glance via an easy-to-read
for added operating
for demanding applications.
machine warm-up and lower
back-lit screen, and gauges
sound levels, while preventing
in the display cluster show
over-heating in hot climates.
fluid levels and component
efficiency, and a choice of auxiliary-hydraulic systems expand the use of work tools for added utility. The 920K’s Cat C4.4 engine meets Tier 3/ Stage IIIA equivalent emission level and
The 920K also incorporates an “intelligent” power-
The 920K’s deluxe cab features two side-entry doors, low-effort electro-hydraulic joystick, suspended pedals, tilt steering wheel, and an air-
A large LCD monitor
temperatures. An optional rearview camera with an in-cab monitor enhances rear visibility. Available ride-control uses the loader cylinders to dampen travel bounce for
is designed for
suspended seat. The
a smoother, less-fatiguing
fuel efficiency in
joystick controller
ride for the operator and
less-regulated
provides single-
improved material retention.
markets such
lever control of
as the Middle
loading functions
(some available only with
and also integrates
the Road and Load Feature
East. The C4.4 allows operators to choose between
Built-in control features
transmission
Package) significantly enhance
and differential-
operating efficiency and safety.
21 The 920K is a capable compact with an intelligent power management system, two power modes and a deluxe cab with hydraulic joystick controls.
99hp
Engine po w of the Cat er rating 920K, with two power mo in a compa des ct package
22
NEW LAUNCHES E ARTH MOVING REP ORT 2019
BOBCAT R-SERIES
POWER IN A SMALL PACKAGE Bobcat new R-Series
five independent auxiliary
mini-excavators range
hydraulic circuits and
in capacity from 2-4t.
a new industry unique
The new line-up of five
‘Selectable Auxiliary
compact excavator
Control’ (SAC) system
models – the E26, E27z,
for customisable joystick
E27, E34 and E35z – offers
controls. Another unique
a mix of high digging
feature is the Cylinder-
forces, stability and
Inside-Boom (CIB) design
smooth controllability
concept, which provides
of working functions.
strong protection for
The new range has
the boom cylinder as
been designed by Bobcat
part of a reinforced
around the operator.
workgroup designed to
A completely new cab
minimise free play and
KOMATSU PC210-10MO
is being introduced
improve durability.
BUILT FOR THE MIDDLE EAST
throughout the R-Series.
Each model in the
The larger operator space
range has been optimised
Fresh for 2019, Komatsu has
and premium interior
for specific audiences,
introduced the PC210-10MO
increase comfort with
such as the E26 for the
and the PC210LC-10MO in the
features a new design. The
an improved entry/exit
rental industry and the
region, which now spearhead
existing 20t model was due for
thanks to new ergonomic
zero-house-swing E27z
the company’s assault on the
an upgrade and when we went
3D handles and a wider
for urban construction.
vital 20t excavator sector in the
in for that we improved a whole
door. The new cab also
The E34 and E35z are also
Middle East. The new models are
bunch of things in terms of
features significantly
the only machines in their
designed and made specifically
machine weight, productivity
larger windows and
class with the optional
for the Middle East; they’re not
and fuel consumption.”
narrower pillars for even
automatic (hydraulic)
global models tweaked for the
better all-around visibility.
track tensioning feature
region with a reduction in specs.
The operator can choose from from up to
for low maintenance and less risk of de-tracking.
Speaking exclusively to CMME,
on soft surfaces like sand. “Our new 20t excavator
Normally, when you upgrade a model and increase its weight, it is accompanied by higher fuel
Ashraf Hashish, senior GM,
consumption. But Komatsu has
Marketing, at Komatsu Middle
broken the mould for that with
East, says: “That the PC210-10M0
this new 20-tonner, significantly
and PC210LC-10M0 are built for
lowering fuel consumption in a
the region is apparent in their
heavier model, Hashish explains.
names. The M0 in the moniker
“The most important new
signifies the models have been
figure to watch out for is 20%
designed for the region. The 10
lower fuel consumption. Despite
stands for the generation; this
an increase in both capacity
is the 10th generation of this
and weight due to a bigger
excavator. And the LC in the
bucket and a strengthened
second variant stands for long
boom, we have reduced the
crawler or longer undercarriage.
fuel consumption of the new
The LC option adds more stability
machines. This is being managed
to the machine, especially for
by both engine technology and
operations with attachments,
other innovative features.
such as breakers. The LC
“The two big improvements
machine is also best suited for
are better and more efficient
operations where low ground
cooling with the on-demand
pressure is required, such as
fan and stronger hydraulics.“
23
HITACHI ZAXIS WHEELED TRIO
LIEBHERR R-SERIES EXCAVATORS
URBAN WARRIORS
BEHEMOTHS UPDATED
Wheeled excavators are
excavator would mean closing
beginning to assume greater
only one side. Also, the tracks of
importance in the GCC region
the heavier crawlers can damage
on the back of civic authorities
road surfaces,” says Bakergem.
regulating the use of crawler excavators in urban areas. Given this scenario, Hitachi
The Hitachi wheeled excavator range in the region begins with the new Zaxis ZX170W-5A, a
has just the right kit to meet the
reliable machine with impressive
increasing demand – the Zaxis
fuel economy, swift front
trio of ZX170W-5A, ZX190W-5A
movements and easy operation,
and ZX210W-5A, with operating
according to the company. With
weights from 16.8-21.6t.
an operating weight between
Piet Bakergem, GM, Hitachi
16.8-18.3t, it’s powered by a
Construction Machinery
153hp engine and boasts a
Middle East Corporation
bucket capacity of up to 0.70m3.
(HMEC), says that for urban
The ZX190W-5A has an
job-sites, the wheeled range
operating weight range of 18.1-
is an apt fit with its ease of
19.8t and ups the bucket capacity
manoeuvring and capacity.
to 0.80m3. The top-of-therange ZX210W-5A, meanwhile,
Liebherr Mining
together with proven
swing more easily in constrained
increases bucket capacity
Equipment Colmar SAS
Liebherr components,
spaces because its counterweight
further to almost a full cubic
launched its B-versions
make these updated
is above the wheels, whereas
metre at 0.91 in an operating
of the R 9100 and R 9150
models ideal for the
for a crawler it is behind the
weight package of 20.1-21.6t.
excavators early this year.
mining and construction
Both machines have
industry’s needs.
“A wheeled excavator is able to
tracks. This means that while a
“After-sales support is available
The R 9100 B and R
crawler would require both sides
24/7 from our dealers. We ensure
proven to be reliable and
of a road to be closed for, say, a
swift service and great parts
productive partners in the
9150 B are equipped
roadworks job, using a wheeled
availability,” Bakergem says.
mining industry over the
with Liebherr’s V12
years, said Liebherr, and
diesel engine designed
with the newest upgrades,
to withstand extreme
these hydraulic excavators
outside temperatures and
“take a step forward to
high altitudes with low
exceed the performance
atmospheric pressure.
and reliability compared
The new B-versions
to other players in this
come with the exclusive
class while lowering
EVO Bucket Solution with
the cost per ton”.
patented Liebherr design
The Liebherr R
to maximise loading
9100 (first launched in
capacity and ensure
2010) and R 9150 (first
optimal penetration
launched in 2012) are
efficiency. Thanks to
based on 60 years of
contoured sidewalls and
Liebherr experience in
augmented depth, the
the development and
EVO Bucket backhoe
construction of hydraulic
bucket has now a capacity
excavators, said the
of 7.5m³ for the R 9100 B
company, adding that
and 8.8m³- 9.6m³ for the
innovative technologies
R 9150 B. The buckets also
from its large hydraulic
shovel match dumpers in
excavator programme,
the 50t to 100t class.
24
LAST WORD E ARTH MOVING REP ORT 2019
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N W O R C Y OM N O C E S N I TA E R N A S O O D
e DX300LC-5 n engine, th sa o o D at e th features th As well as d exclusive osan’s o an D n r io ve o ti pt aj m va m ment el consu has inno orean equip uctions in fu vator has d to re ca d re ex ge r u pa h le m craw % co lead to DX300LC-5 average of 10 ch Lowest ng ipmentWat ounting to an oosan. Amo u D am Eq ys e d sa th ar e, n w in A h wo ) ac O g” m C in B (L tt age III eter se nership ium the St the “trip m ed Cost of Ow M is r el s le fu re w k u ra at ec vators C rs to ch these fe in the Exca ws operato running. lo d ar al io ye h er ic p nd h d w co ire the se screen r a des category for re daily or ove pirical data u n at em fe tio p n er o m th o su ed n nel. A d con s are bas e control pa f heavy an The award des an rectly from th erm cost o di -t g ff that provi n o lo tby u e ed th sh is to an au rg gine o e e th e regarding ar is hey wn for th en uipment. T ing matic shut do to the ad le au en e h compact eq th w f -set time ch, one o re at p a tW r en te m ra af d Equip ftware an en idling fo f a data, so hine has be o ac s m le er b d vi ra t u ro p uipmen e config the heavy eq ecified tim sp a , o ls A insights for re a erator. N o m in e e s by the op , em st sy in d u st ry. t n ed re p san-develo ithin 15 diffe o w o D ed is l), o gn tr reco biting Power Con duction in tegories exhi SPC (Smart Average re ce the in machine ca ip n o sh ti er th e ba la n p n m w st of o p ti m is e s o fuel consu e d th f re o a t p the lowest co u com e outp year span. DX300LC-5 between th e. r n o gi ss over a fiveen e l ry c se e go the die in its cate to its pred pumps and d as The winner sive year, ers are fitte es an cc le su -c d n re p co ir se A e , dirt th st y r b du fo ered h of the LC-5 is pow , to blow muc rd ner el da ea es cl an di the DX300 st re r linde ke, to ensu DL08 siz-cy at air of the air inta W t ds 2k n ou te the Doosan is 20 f br ex o is de t h an outpu gine and e air filter. T n ith en gi w in e en e, e se im in th g pt ea en % incr r is sent to hancing u oviding a 27 ver the ai intervals, en o g y e st in u u ic d rq rv r to 1800 rpm, pr se st in ded fo cleaner a 30% boo . Recommen ity er n iv . ct ea el u cl d power and d o ero m pr -3 and p (9.5 l) previous LC mission , the oil bath from company’s Stage IV e vironments ts move dust e en e re m l to e n se io ie in d pt o a f an ing o as d The eng rv e nee eaner se ic is available without th nding air cl te of cooled e ex , us e ke th ta regulations h ug the air in ter (DPF), thro selective matically. particulate fil n (EGR) and tio intervals dra la u rc ci re s t. ga en st tm exhau ) after-trea uction (SCR catalyst red
K
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