EQUIPMENT SUPPLEMENTOCTOBER2022
PETZLTREECARE SOLUTIONS ©2021-Petzl-MattPycroft/ColdhouseCOllective Beingeffectiveinyourdailyworkasanarboristmeansmasteringadvancedtechniques andhavingthebestequipmenttoefficientlymovearoundandpositionyourselfinthe trees.Here'sWaldoEtheringtoninhiselementatStourheadArboretuminWiltshire. PETZLTREECARE SOLUTIONS ©2021-Petzl-MattPycroft/ColdhouseCOllective Beingeffectiveinyourdailyworkasanarboristmeansmasteringadvancedtechniques andhavingthebestequipmenttoefficientlymovearoundandpositionyourselfinthe trees.Here'sWaldoEtheringtoninhiselementatStourheadArboretuminWiltshire. TreecaresolutionincludesaZIGZAGPLUS mechanicalPrusik,aCHICANEauxiliarybraking deviceanda11.6mmFLOWlowstretch kernmantelrope.www.petzl.com
PETROL ALTERNATIVES 4 INTER VIEW Mandy Maynard, Lantra 9 THE ONLY WAY IS UP Electric battery power 14 NEW MAKITALAUNCH: A look at the BL4080F 40VMAX 8.0AH XGT battery 18 ISEKI – VEHICLES Maintaining Portrack House 19 PR ODUCT DNA GreenMech EVO 165D 21 STIG A – AI MOWERS Fully autonomous, wire-free robot mowers 22 T OP TIPS Chainsaw operation and safety with Makita 23 HAND TOOLS Five latest products designed to be small but effective 24 CHAINS AWS Top options from Husqvarna, EGO and Stihl 27 P PE Picks for protecting both your body and your hearing CONTENTS
n which area is the cost-of-living crisis not taking its toll? We’re all feeling it, whether it’s the rising cost of our weekly shop or our growing energy bills. There is a beacon of hope, though; at the time of writing, new Prime Minister Liz Truss has announced that energy bills will be capped at £2,500 from October for the next two years. It’s her first major policy since taking the top job and is part of a package to support homes and businesses.
RISING ELECTRICITY
Whicheverinstead.
PROS BEING THAT THE COSTS OF RUNNING
The cap is undoubtedly welcomed news, particularly for those who have invested in electric vehicles. Rising electricity costs this year have arguably been a blow to this market, one of its pros being that the costs of running an electric vehicle are cheaper than those of its petrol alternatives. What Car? put that to the test in a journey from London to Leeds, putting two electric cars against their petrol alternatives to see which would
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WELCOME
Of course, many of those switching to an electric fleet are not doing so to save money but for environmental reasons. Saving money would certainly be a plus, though, particularly for grounds maintenance companies which would have not too long ago had to ditch red diesel across many operations and pay for the pricier white diesel
YEAR HAVE ARGUABLY
ONE
cost the least to reach its destination. At the time, petrol cost a staggering £1.99 a litre – but the electric vehicles were still more expensive to charge, both costing 28.4% and 10.8% more.
I
WELCOME Pro Landscaper / Equipment Supplementprolandscapermagazine .com 3
way you look at it, there are hurdles for the kit market to overcome –whether it’s in the supply chain or the cost of running equipment. But with innovation at the forefront of the sector, we’re eagerly awaiting new game-changers. COSTS THIS BEEN A TO THIS MARKET, OF ITS AN ITS
ELECTRIC VEHICLE ARE CHEAPER THAN THOSE OF
retain them and keep the industry diverse. It’s quite Lantraexciting.”hasbeen talking to associations and organisations across the land-based industries
WHAT WE’RE FOCUSING ON IS HOW TO DEVELOP THEM, RETAIN THEM AND KEEP THE INDUSTRY DIVERSE. IT’S QUITE EXCITING
were furloughed or out walking more and looking around thinking, ‘I’d rather this was my office’. So, we’ve had a lot of people asking us how they get started.”
Mandy Maynard, national development manager for Lantra (awarding body for landbased qualifications), says: “It’s something that we have been trying to overcome for a while, but since lockdown, so many people have looked to the land-based industry. People
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I t continues to be a challenge, leaving companies woefully understaffed – or worse, under-skilled. There is a “huge skills shortage and finding appropriate staff is becoming more difficult,” commented one contributor to last month’s UK Landscape Barometer.
To answer their questions, those looking to start a career in the land-based industries will find guidance, a list of job roles they could work towards, and the career paths to get them there on Lantra’s new website. “What we’re focusing on is how to develop them,
BRIDGING THE GAP
he skills gap is, unfortunately, not a new topic in the landscaping industry.
A multi-pronged approach may well be the answer. Associations and organisations are attempting to close the gap by attracting the next generation of horticulturists to the industry, such as BALI’s GoLandscape. Now, Lantra is set to launch its own website later this year focusing on the industry’s skills gap.
FROM TACKLING THE SKILLS SHORTAGE TO EVOLVING ITS TRAINING, LANTRA IS CELEBRATING LAND-BASED INDUSTRIES, SAYS MANDY MAYNARD
“Our main aim has been around PPE, because companies expect women to slot into men’s clothing, and it just doesn’t fit. The amount of adjustments you have to make, it actually seems unsafe once you’re out there in the workplace. It’s things like the crotch area being way too low or the waist being too large or being too long in the leg.
to compile the job roles, along with the training and qualifications required for those looking to get into these roles. The website also gives examples of pay scales.
OUR MAIN AIM HAS BEEN AROUND PPE, BECAUSE COMPANIES EXPECT WOMEN TO SLOT INTO MEN’S CLOTHING, AND IT JUST DOESN’T FIT
Lantra will also be at the APF, kicking off the Arb Show at the event, with its own stand,
FEATURE Pro Landscaper / Equipment Supplementprolandscapermagazine .com 5
produce some samples of PPE for Mandy, who as part of her role at Lantra engages with manufacturers to help with the development of PPE and equipment to ensure it is suitable for the sector. She can’t reveal the supplier just yet, but says she is excited to see what it comes up with – providing it’s not pink. “When you have patronising comments like, ‘We could do you a pink helmet, would you like that?’ We wanted to look like everybody else and be treated as an equal; if you turn up with a pink helmet on, you’re automatically saying you’re different.”
“So, we’ve done an international survey which I have sent to a lot of manufacturers and asked them to look at. Why aren’t they producing PPE for women? Because the number of women in the industry is growing and the need for them is growing, but they’re almost being halted at the first hurdle.”
The survey has had an impact, and one big name within the PPE market is going to
“I don’t believe that the land-based industries are given the kudos they should have; it’s amazing, because it can be for someone who wants to do something manual or for someone who wants to do something academic – there’s so much biology involved in a lot of aspects. I don’t think there’s any other industry quite so vast and diverse.”
Through showing the variety of roles on offer, Mandy hopes the new website will help to boost people’s perception of landbased roles and for the industry to gain the kudos it deserves. It might also help to attract more women to the industry. Mandy chairs Arboricultural Association's Women in Arboriculture Group, which aims to showcase females working in the tree care industry but also to encourage more to join and improve its diversity. There are hurdles, though, which they are trying to overcome, working in partnership with the Arboricultural Association.
Mandy commends Boel Hammarstrand, a Swedish arborist who has become so established and so successful in the industry that she can choose to wear a pink helmet and continue to be taken seriously. Boel – or Bo, as Mandy calls her – founded Women’s ArbCamp, an opportunity for women in the industry to meet and climb non-competitively. She will be head judge for the climbing competition at this year’s APF, taking place from 22-24 September.
report that more and more people are wanting to use battery-operated equipment, which is fantastic. And this is why we’re in the process of developing a certificated battery course. But it would have to be clear that those who gain this qualification could only then use battery operated equipment. It’s like if you pass your test with an automatic licence, you can’t drive a manual. If you only take the battery modules, it wouldn’t be safe to use petrol as you haven’t been trained in that.”Lantra also helps manufacturers ensure kit is suitable for the professional market, including battery kit company EGO Power Plus, which was previously mostly for the domestic user. They approached Mandy for advice and guidance: “Lots of our providers use our instructors and assessors to trial products to find out what is lacking, and EGO was looking to find out what needed to be better in the professional market. And this worked really well for them; they’ve now crossed over, which is fantastic.”It’sallpart of Lantra’s ongoing commitment to the industry, and its focus to celebrate the industry where possible. “We all get slightly frustrated around not having the kudos for the industry we strongly feel it should have, so our focus is going to be around celebrating the industry. But also around the importance of refresher training, so keeping people safe and not only retaining skills but building on them. There’s nothing worse than someone having the attitude of them having worked in the industry for 20 years and therefore knowing everything.
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career talks and information on how people can become an instructor or assessor to pass on their knowledge to others.
It will also be holding demonstrations of two-rope working in light of recent legislation changes in that field. As national development manager, Mandy works with Lantra’s training providers across England, Scotland and Wales to ensure all of its courses are up to date and that the end user is receiving the right training and
Alongqualifications.withlegislative changes, Lantra’s courses evolve with technological innovations, such as the development of battery-powered kit. A few years ago, it added a batteryoperated module to its training, so that if there is an option for an item of kit to be battery
I’M VERY HAPPY TO REPORT THAT MORE AND MORE PEOPLE ARE WANTING TO USE BATTERY OPERATED EQUIPMENT, WHICH IS FANTASTIC. AND THIS IS WHY WE’RE IN THE PROCESS OF DEVELOPING A CERTIFICATED BATTERY COURSE
“Some contractors are quite often saying they want people to use battery operated equipment on their sites because it’s more environmentally friendly and quieter for using at night in urban areas. I’m very happy to
This industry is constantly evolving and we want to make sure that everybody is evolving with it so that they are at the top of their game. It’s about keeping people knowledgeable and keeping people safe – these are our main focuses.” All of which goes towards further closing the skills gap and promoting the industry as a skilled and professional sector worthy of recognition.
operated, there is a module for this too. Those undertaking these modules would still need to take the full training in petrol operated equipment to be covered, though, under PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998).
CLAIM A PRODUCTFREEBL1850B 1x LXT 18V 5.0Ah Battery Claim a Garden5.0AhBL1850BFREE18VBatterywithSelected18VLXTProducts BL1850B 2x LXT 18V 5.0Ah Battereis Claim 2 with5.0AhBL1850BFREE18VBatteriesSelectedTwin18VLXTGardenProducts BL4025 1x XGT 40V 2.5Ah Battery Claim a Garden2.5AhBL4025FREE40VBatterywithSelected40VMaxXGTProducts DMR110N 1x DAB+ Job Site Radio Claim a withDMR110NFREEDAB+JobSiteRadioSelected36V Claims can be registered on-line from 1st October 2022 and must be registered within 28 days of purchase for qualifying models. Qualifying models must be purchased by 31st December 2022 to qualify and registered within 28 days. LXT 1x BL1850B Free: DUB184RT, DUB186RT, DUC254RT, DUH502RT, DUH523RT, DUH601RT, DUH604SRT, DUH751RT, DUH754SRT, DUN461WRT, DUX18RT, DUN500WRTE, DUN600LRTE, DCU180PT2, DCU180PTX4, DCU180PTX3, DCW180RTE. LXT 2x BL1850B Free: DDG460T2X7, DUA301PG2, DUA301PT2, DUB362PG2, DUB362PT2, DUB363PG2V, DUB363PT2V, DUC256PG2, DUC256PT2, DUC305PG2, DUC305PT2, DUC306PG2, DUC306PT2, DUC353PG2, DUC353PT2, DUC355PG2, DUC355PT2, DUC405PG2, DUC405PT2, DUX60PG2, DUX60PT2. LXT 1x DMR110N Free: UB001CX2, UB002CX3. XGT 1x BL4025 Free: CW001GT101, DG001GD201, UA004GD202, UB001GD201, UC002GD201, UC003GD201, UC014GT201, UC015GT201, UC016GT201, UH004GD202, UH005GD202, UH006GD202, UH007GD202, UH013GD201, UH014GD201, UX01GD201. MAKITAUK.COM/REDEMPTION
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The use of alternative energy could be the answer; the industry can help combat the rising fuel prices by investing in long term solutions that will not only be better for the environment
TO TRULY REDUCE OUR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT, WE ALL NEED TO TAKE A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH, CONSIDERING EVERYTHING FROM CARBON AND WATER, THROUGH TO WASTE AND BIODIVERSITY
THE ONLY WAY IS
uel prices throughout the UK have reached an all-time high and with the HMRC withdrawing red diesel usage from certain areas of the landscaping industry, the forced change to white diesel has caused a huge leap in the cost of running machines, including tractors and mowers. The rise in prices means an increased pressure on businesses in the sector, so the question remains: how can companies combat price rises?
AS ENERGY PRICES SOAR AND CLIMATE CHANGE BECOMES AN EVER-LOOMING PROBLEM, WE TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT HOW ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES ARE BEING USED IN THE LANDSCAPING INDUSTRY TODAY
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A major way the industry is tackling the call for alternative energy is through the use of battery-powered hand tools. Swedish kit manufacturer Stihl unveiled its plans for a brand-new site for manufacturing electric and cordless power tools, so it has
but may be cheaper to run. Electric prices are also rising with ITV reporting Click Energy is set to increase its prices by 28.2% from October the first. Electric vehicles are one of the ways the industry has begun to look at alternative energy solutions and many companies are committed to becoming greener. The BBC reports Liz Truss, the new PM, is looking to aid the public when it comes to all energy bills with a support package worth £100bn in total although is seems to be unclear how long the government support will last. A typical household's gas and electricity bill is due to rise from £1,971 to £3,549 in October.
The need for sustainable alternative energy options is clear. Tim Howell, managing director for Mitie Landscapes, advises: “To truly reduce our environmental impact, we all need to take a comprehensive approach, considering everything from carbon and water, through to waste and "Switchingbiodiversity.toalternative energy is a key part of Mitie’s approach, which is why 100% of our small equipment will be battery-powered by late 2024, with an interim target of 66% by the end of next year. This includes equipment such as electric trimmers, leaf blowers and lawn mowers.”
F
“Now our City Landscaping teams only use electric vehicles, and these have custom-fitted
THE ADOPTION OF LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES HAS TRANSFORMED THE PERFORMANCE OF CORDLESS MACHINES. THESE BATTERIES HOLD HIGH LEVELS OF ENERGY, ALLOWING FOR GREATER POWER AND WILL WORK FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME WITHOUT NEEDING TO BE CHARGED
FEATURE prolandscapermagazine .comPro Landscaper
What is considered alternative energy?
The use of alternative energy is also being used within the landscaping industry in electric vehicles. Howell explains how Mitie has been rolling out electric vehicles across its fleet.
a significant increase in its capacity to manufacturer these products. The facility is set for completion in 2024. Martin Schwarz, Stihl’s executive board member for manufacturing and materials, comments: “Batterypowered products represent the fastest-growing market for Stihl at the present time. We expect demand for these products to continue rising faster than any other category in the years ahead.”
solar panels on the roof to generate renewable energy, which is used to charge the batterypowered landscaping equipment, without affecting the charge of the van’s own battery. It just shows that a little creativity can make a huge impact in overcoming sustainability challenges.”
Kevin marketingBrannigan,
So, alternative energy is seemingly a great option for the industry, but what are the limitations? Angus Lindsay, group head of asset and fleet management at idverde, says: “Things will become easier as more manufactures move away from fossil fuels and along with greater choice and availability it will lead to greater adoption by businesses.”
lithium-ion batteries can be charged in as little as 22 minutes and its 2.5Ah 40VMax XGT battery can be charged in just 28 minutes. As a result, on-site productivity is improved, and tool downtime is significantly reduced.”
Alternative energy refers to any other energy source than fossil fuels (coal, petroleum, diesel, etc). It includes renewable and nuclear energy sources such as solar energy, wind energy, hydro energy, tidal energy, geothermal energy and biomass Renewableenergy.energy sources currently make up 26% of the world’s electricity. The share is expected to increase to 30% by 2024 as advised by the International Energy Agency (IEA). The world's interest in decreasing the use of fossil fuels is just another reason the landscaping industry will benefit from alternative energy solutions as it falls in line with goals to make the world a greener and more sustainable place.
manager at Makita UK, explains how Makita has been phasing out petrol and diesel models to make room for an electric-only fleet. “Makita actively promotes the use of cordless products over fossil fuel machinery. In January 2022, the Makita Corporation ceased the manufacture of all petrol engine products globally and the company’s focus and investment are centred on the research, development, and introduction of more cordless products for construction, landscaping, and garden maintenance. Our 18V LXT and 40V XGT range of products continues to expand to offer professionals a wide selection of tools for every application with the run times and performance to provide a true alternative to mains power and petrol power equipment.”
“In 2020 we launched our City Landscaping service which we specifically designed to limit environment impact in urban areas. We stripped everything right back and rethought through each element to make it as sustainable as possible, from materials used, to the time the teams spend on the road.
Currently the struggle seems to lie within basic infrastructure. Lindsay continues: “Whilst we
He also explains how “the adoption of lithiumion batteries has transformed the performance of cordless machines. These batteries hold high levels of energy, allowing for greater power and will work for long periods of time without needing to be charged. Over the years, Makita has refined this technology to improve performance with the tool as well as reduce charging times. For example, Makita’s 3.0Ah 18V LXT
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Chris Meacock, division Deere&managersalesforTurfGolfatJohnexpresses the company’s interest in battery power. “There is a lot of interest in battery-driven mowers, but the journey to electrification in the commercial turf care sector is still burgeoning. John Deere is looking forward to
our approach remains on battery-powered and solar solutions, as these practical tools are easily implemented, meaning we can reduce ours and our customers’ environmental impact without disruption to the service.”
of green loans. NatWest advises: “New Green Loans proposition will offer borrowing with no arrangement fee to qualifying Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) investing in eligible clean buildings, energy, transport and agriculture.”
WE WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE UK’S CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVE, SO THAT WE CAN FULLY EMBRACE THIS TECHNOLOGY. IT IS GREAT THAT CHOICE AND AFFORDABILITY IS BECOMING MORE REALISTIC THAN IT WAS THREE YEARS AGO
are greenermovelookingactivelytotoafleet and adopting hurdleispossible,technologyelectricwhereinfrastructurecurrentlythebiggesttothismoveasmany of our locations are leased and/or client properties. Putting charge points into someone else’s property is all well and good, but it could be dead money and, in some cases, the basic infrastructure is not able to support several chargeBranniganpoints.”agrees that the infrastructure needs to improve. “We would like to see the UK’s charging infrastructure improve, so that we can fully embrace this technology. It is great that choice and affordability is becoming more realistic than it was three years ago.”
the role it will play in developing battery drive equipment, and we also will look to add smart features to improve operation with major goals, such as making operation more comfortable.”
Why alternative energy or fossil fuels?
For companies who may be concerned about funding the change to alternative energy but want to be involved and make the change, banks such as NatWest have released options
Companies appear eager to make use of alternative energy where possible, but that perhaps is not entirely widely available. So, are there enough alternative energy options out there at the moment? Perhaps in the future, as Brannigan comments: “The more alternative energy options the better! With more research, development, and investment, the better it will be for everyone to find the most affordable and available solutions.”
Alternative energy produces no greenhouse gas emissions and reduces some types of air pollution, the rising costs are also mitigated as it does not need to be transported once and bought again and again the way fossil fuels do.
Lindsay adds that: “The future lies in the fuel we put into our existing internal combustion engines, making it clean, sustainable and readily available, and then I think we have cracked it.”
Howell productionsolutions,morepreferenceformove“Potentialadds:futuresolutionssuchashydrogen-basedtechnologiesmaybemorewidelyadoptedbybusinessesinthefuture,thoughaswetogreenertoolsthejob,thegeneralremainsaroundaccessibleandpracticalwheretherearefewerchallenges.That’swhy,fornow,
The company is aiming to provide £100bn of Climate and Sustainability funding to customers
Fossil fuels are limited and release harmful gases into the atmosphere posing dangers to the environment; it's important the dependency on them comes to an end. Most countries are already passing regulations and policies that make use of alternative energy sources.
FEATURE prolandscapermagazine .comPro Landscaper / Equipment Supplement
• With rising energy costs consider a product's energy-efficiency as this will be key.
Brannigan says that, for Makita, it will be continuing to work on its already significant
• Beyond cost, low-maintenance products will be easily implemented and adopted, meaning the risk of disruptions to existing services will be significantly reduced.
• Identify areas in the business that can be powered with alternative energy.
THERE IS A LOT OF INTEREST IN BATTERY-DRIVEN MOWERS, BUT THE JOURNEY TO ELECTRIFICATION IN THE COMMERCIAL TURF CARE SECTOR IS STILL BURGEONING
Howell says: “As well as improving the sustainability of our fleet and equipment, we have also made some changes to the facilities we use. Last year, our HQ in Bordon was fully decarbonised. We removed all gas-powered equipment and replaced it with air-source heat pumps and other electric-powered technologies, saving 21 tonnes of CO2e annually. We’ve also upgraded lighting to LED, installed a green wall and introduced plants. We aim to install roof solar panels and additional EV chargers.”
Advice from Makita:
12Tips
• Train drivers and operators in the requirements of new technology to avoid expensive mistakes.
Advice from Mitie:
• Promote and educate your employees on the benefits of environmental awareness.
• Select the right tools for the business.
on how to incorporate more alternative energy:
The government has also released guidelines for its green financing framework, including a section called the Landscape Recovery Scheme. This will focus more on large and long-term landscape and ecosystem restoration projects to start with, rather than alternative energy directly, and will be rolled out at the end of 2022.With help on its way to encourage battery power and alternative energy in the industry, what are landscaping companies looking to do next in terms of alternative energy?
alternative energy options: “Makita continues to work on new tool and battery technologies to refine and improve performance and results so that professionals have access to a range of cordless kit that is comparable to petrol and electric equivalents.”
• Prioritise and focus environmental awareness with all stakeholders.
Lindsay of idverde says the company is focusing on electric power tools rather than vehicles at the moment. “Electric is a bit more of a challenge, though for power tools we have adopted electric for the last three years and are increasing numbers annually, though supply has been a challenge this year.”
It seems that with increasing interest and determination to provide quality alternative energy options within the landscaping industry, the growth of a more environmentally friendly and cost-conscious industry could be inevitable as companies are determined to find solutions to rising fuel prices and help combat the use of fossil fuels that damage our environment.
• Trial Makita’s products for free when you book with a product specialist or at Makita’s factory service centre. Put our cordless products to the test and make the move from petrol to battery power.
• Take steps towards renewable energy procurement within your business.
• Consider the whole life cost of a solution opposed to initial purchase price.
Advice from idverde:
• Don’t commit to long-term leases which could mean you miss out on new or updated technology in terms of battery capacity, charging technology and vehicle range.
by the end of 2025. Companies that want to acquire assets that fall under renewable energy, energy storage systems and electric vehicles are all eligible for this loan.
Lead the Pack Are you ready to meet the newest member of the pack? Visit us at APF this September to find out more! VISIT US AT APF STAND 245-285
Also new to Makita’s battery range
• The DMR055, DMR056 and MR009G have all been launched for its LXT and XGT battery platforms
• This is Makita’s largest capacity battery to date, with 288Wh of energy.
• The new battery is especially useful when using on Makita’s higher drain XGT machines.
• The DMR055 18V/14.4V LXT Cordless Lantern features a built-in AM/ FM radio, and lamp extending to 360-degree light coverage. The lantern is also equipped with a memory function to recall the user’s preferred brightness and light tone levels.
• I t offers the longest runtime for the manufacturer’s XGT products, which, as Makita highlights, offers users the benefits of less downtime and improved productivity.
• The 18V/14.4V LXT DMR056 and 40VMax XGT MR009GZ are packed with further features in addition to the above, including an LCD digital display, Bluetooth and DAB/DAB+ radio station frequency.
• Equipped with 20 cells, it has a higher power output that enables Makita’s XGT tools to be pushed even harder and perform heavy duty, continuous operation over extended periods.
8.0AHBL4080FLAUNCHES40VMAXXGTBATTERY
• The battery has been designed with Makita’s digital communication function between the tool, battery and charger to optimise the charging process, reduce charge times and protect the battery from damage.
KIT prolandscapermagazine .comPro Landscaper / Equipment Supplement14
NEWMAKITABOOSTSITSBATTERYRANGE
MAKITA
FURTHER WITH ITS LATEST PRODUCT
• This real-time digital communication actively monitors heat, overload, and over-discharge as well as delivering up to 2X longer sustained power during demanding applications.
• The DMR056 and MR009GZ also have two flashlight modes: torch and strobe and are equipped with a USB output port for charging mobile devices. makitauk.com
Three new cordless radio lanterns
• The BL4080F is also IPX4 rated with a water and dust-resistant triple layer structure and an enhanced terminal structure.
• I ts impact resistance has been significantly improved thanks to its heavy duty and durable outer and cell casing.
Contact your local dealer to book a demo on your site today! www.iseki.co.uk “We already had a SXG ride-on mower and a compact tractor tractor from ISEKI, we wanted to extend our fleet and so purchased another TXGS24 subcompact tractor. The machinery we have had from ISEKI in the past has covered all the bases for landscaping the gardens and keeping the lawns looking immaculate. We have found them to be reliable, trustworthy, strong and they have taken literally everything we have thrown at them… and even a little bit more.” BenWakefield,Groundcare Manager,Portrack House,Garden of Cosmic Speculation DEMAND QUALITY, WHY COMPROMISE?
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“We predominantly use this mower on all our flat areas, around our mounds, and riverbanks,” said Ben. “It is a very good bit of machinery, and it has a leaf collector and a grass collector on the back which certainly makes life a lot easier.”
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range of GardentomachinesISEKIarehelpingmaintaintheofCosmic
wet conditions. Its large capacity, low revving 1123cc, 19hp, engine creates very little vibration and wear and tear on the engine itself, whilst also being very fuel efficient and powerful.
ISEKI VEHICLES PROVIDE MULTI-PURPOSE BRILLIANCE, WHICH IS WHY THEY ARE AT THE FOREFRONT OF MAINTAINING A GARDEN THAT'S SIMPLY OUT OF THIS WORLD
To make disposing of grass cuttings easy, the SXG323 has a hydraulically operated high or low tip collection system which can lift up to a height of 1.97m. “The high tipper is very useful because it allows us to drop grass off in certain areas that may not be accessible by reversing trailers in. It's easy to pile it up, is a lot neater,
fleet,” said Ben. “The machinery we have had from ISEKI in the past has covered all the bases. We have found them to be reliable, trustworthy, strong and they have taken literally everything we have thrown at them and more.”
“We use it for everything,” said Ben. “It has the digger bucket on it, so we use it for excavating and landscaping purposes. It also has a trailer attachment, so we use it a lot for collecting grass and leaves. We can run the PTO’s and systems off one trailer and can unload into a trailer attached to another tractor. It is our general-purpose machine – basically if we can attach something to it, then we can use it.”
“We already had a ride-on mower and a tractor from ISEKI, and we wanted to extend our
AT PORTRACK HOUSE COSMIC ISEKI STARS
Groundcare manager at Portrack House, Ben Wakefield, admits that he is fortunate to work at such a magical site, but it is safe to say he has his work cut out. In maintaining the vast area, Ben claims he needs every machine to be a ‘workhorse’ and it is for this reason that there was only one brand he considered when he needed a new tractor.
“The adjustment in cutting height is a very good feature. There is also the hydraulic lifting which lifts the deck up and down, so when you are going over bumpy or rough terrain, you can easily adjust the height so that you get a nice and even cut the whole wayWhilethrough.”Ben and his team are surrounded by a garden inspired by modern cosmology, he admits that he has his very own set of stars. “Quite simply, ISEKI has a range of machinery that caters exactly for what we need. We enjoy using them and I would recommend these machines to absolutely anyone.”
With 3-point linkage, mid and rear PTOs, optional mower decks and front loader the uses for the TXGS24 tractor are limitless.
Ben recently added the ISEKI TXGS24 compact tractor to his fleet. Used in a huge range of applications where a small multi-use sub compact tractor is required, the TXGS24 is the ultimate compact multi-purpose tractor.
IT IS OUR GENERAL-PURPOSE MACHINEBASICALLY IF WE CAN ATTACH SOMETHING TO IT, THEN WE CAN USE IT
Forty major areas, gardens, bridges, landforms, sculptures, terraces, fences and architectural works, the Garden of Cosmic Speculation is a sight to behold. The masterpiece features landscape work based on the Big Bang, geometric fractals, twisting DNA helixes, and black holes.
and it saves multiple people leaf blowing or collecting it by hand.
Speculation – an incredible 30acre sculpture garden located at Portrack House, near Dumfries in South West Scotland.
Ben also has the ISEKI TXG237 compact tractor to assist him, as well as the ISEKI SXG323 ride-on mower. The SXG Range is the ultimate in cut and collection mowers, with the ability to perform exceptionally even in the
• 25hp,
4
KIT Pro Landscaper / Equipment Supplementprolandscapermagazine .com 19
SPECIFICATIONSTECHNICAL
• 1,000kg
GreenMech’s no-stress infeed system self manages the material flow rate through the processor to ensure throughput is smooth and does not block or stall the machine.
PRODUCT DNA
The EVO has been configured to ensure that the ongoing maintenance is straight forward, enhancing safety and reducing machine downtime. Centralised grease points improve the speed of regular servicing, while the underslung plastic tanks offer an ‘at a glance’ view on fuel and hydraulic oil levels.
• 165mm chipping capacity
parts
• GreenMech disc-blade
6
weight
A one-piece fabricated chassis makes the EVO one of most durable woodchippers on today's market, delivering great strength in even the most demanding of operational conditions. The motto of ‘strength’ also extends to the 101kg heavy-duty flywheel, offering unparalleled processing power.
EVOGREENMECH165D
• Three-year unlimited “no quibble” and labour
GreenMech’s disc-blade chipping system means only one third of the disc blade’s circumference comes into contact with the woody material at any one time, while its slicing action makes it less prone to damage. When the first edge becomes worn, the blades can be turned twice to the next unused edge, offering an expected life of over 900 hours per set.
3
chipping technology
5
The EVO 165D features a wide infeed chute, able to accept timber of up to 6” and awkward brash without the need to spend time snedding the material in advance. The wide chute also helps to prevent inadvertent triggering of the safety bar when feeding in wide branches.
warranty
stage V compliant Kubota diesel engine
In situations of overload, the electronicallycontrolled system will automatically reverse the feed rollers to relieve the chipper blades and allow the rotor speed to recover quickly.
Twin horizontal feed rollers gather and grip the material, while offering a smoother flow into the processor. This horizontal configuration also helps to reduce lateral movement of the material, enhancing operator safety when feeding the machine.
12 7
The hinged steel bonnet is lined with noise reduction foam which, with the disc blade chipping system, helps to make the EVO 165D one of the quietest chippers out there. An additional fan also provides extra air to the system and allows for a lower engine operating speed. With no detriment to efficiency, this reduces noise and fuel consumption.
Typically, RTK GPS robots use radio signals to transmit course correctional data between the base station and robot. This is crucial to ensuring that robot navigation is accurate. However, obstacles can block radio signals – breaking the contact.
PROMOTION Pro Landscaper / Equipment Supplementprolandscapermagazine .com 21
Plants, insects, and wildlife interact with all the physical non-living things such as soil, water, air, and sunlight to create the small eco-systems that we find in every garden. By designing high efficiency robots that are able to manage cutting session during daylight hours, STIGA has ensured that nocturnal animals such as hedgehogs can safely occupy the garden overnight.
At the heart of every STIGA robot mower is an ePower battery built on premium lithium-ion batteries that are built for the future; even after 1500 charging cycles, the
FREE,
• A 1500 • A 3000 • A 500
stiga.com/uk
battery still operates at over 80%Thecapacity.newSTIGA robots further optimise the battery usage by working within organised cutting patterns, ensuring that there is no chance of over mowing. There is also the option to programme the mower to create straight-line patterns to produce that classic British stripe effect.
NEW TO THE STIGA RANGE FOR 2023 ARE THREE FULLY AUTONOMOUS, WIRE ROBOT MOWERS, - THE FIRST TO BRING PREDICTIVE AGS TECHNOLOGY TO THE GARDEN.
Caring for the lawn
The new STIGA robot range combines cutting edge technology with function-led design engineering to offer a robot mower that offers cutting perfection, with total flexibility and control like no other.
Energy efficiency
No-Wire
AGS RTK GPS using cloud based 4G signals
The systemlearns
satellite blind spots throughout the garden, ensuring that the robot has an unbroken link to the infrastructure that allows it to navigate with high accuracy.
The patented STIGA Active Guidance System (AGS) enhances the GPS RTK signal reliability by using 4G to transmit the vital course correction data. This means the link between robot and base remains reliable no matter what obstacles or distance lies between them.
STIGA Where innovation is second nature
These robots cut the lawn in two mowing cycles – these are performed consequently. It will re-start any cutting cycle from where it stopped on the previous cycle and can be programmed to work in multiple mowing zones, always returning to the charging station by the fastest route.
By using accurate navigation, the robot can cover the lawn significantly more efficiently. This means less cutting time compared to a random navigation robot. Less cutting time means that the plant has time to betweenhealcuttingschedules.
The carbon steel pivoting razor blades are strong and flexible, making them more resistant to impact and results in them staying sharper for longer. Spinning at 2850rpm, they will perform a neat cut without tearing the grass. The height of cut can be adjusted between 20 and 65mm and can be controlled remotely via the smartphone app, STIGA.GO.
With no need to lay wire or hammer plastic stakes in your lawn, you can simply use the app to drive the robot mower around the perimeter of your lawn and any obstacles within it. You do it once and it remembers every detail. It is simple to adjust if the layout of the garden changes.
Caring for nature
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCES STIGA BRINGSTOBRITISH GARDENS
TOP TIPS prolandscapermagazine .comPro Landscaper / Equipment Supplement22
MARK EARLES, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER FOR OUTDOOR PRODUCTS AT MAKITA UK, SHARES HIS TOP TIPS TO GET THE MOST OF YOUR CHAINSAW AND AVOID INJURY
In the case of chainsaws, good safety equipment can sometimes cost as much as the machine, but safety is never a risk worth taking. The true cost could be a limb, the end of a career, or worse. When working with a chainsaw, always wear the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) which includes a safety helmet, hearing protection, an eye visor and glasses, gloves, chainsaw boots, and leg and groin protection.
Use the correct accessory
Wear the correct safety equipment
To find out more about Makita’s range of outdoor equipment, as well as details on its training courses and servicing facilities, visit: makitauk.com
As with any tool, only specify replacement bars and cutting chains that have been recommended by the manufacturer or make use of one of the tool servicing centres that Makita offers across its sites across the UK.
Examine the chainsaw chain – check that the teeth are angled and sharp and if the blade is dull, it should be sharpened to restore its edge. Also examine whether there are any signs of excessive wear to the bar, any rust, or loose or bent links. If there is any indication of this, the bar or chain should be replaced. Users should also maintain saw chain tension and ensure the tool is adequately topped with the correct lubricating oil.
Ultimately, quality cannot be compromised for professionals who need a machine to rely on for their livelihood. Only source equipment from trusted manufacturers and when using battery powered products, use only genuine batteries from the manufacturer that have been fully tested and guaranteed to work with the tool and deliver the power required.
Familiarise yourself with the product
21 43 5
Keep your chainsaw in good working condition
OPERATIONCHAINSAW AND SAFETY TOP TIPS
range of training courses, which can be delivered at one of our Factory Service Centres (FSCs) or at your preferred site. The courses include a Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross-Cutting qualification to cover the key aspects of chainsaw use at ground level.
Identify the correct products for the task
Training on any tool should never be underestimated or overlooked. Understanding key tool features and proper handling, particularly when it comes to dangerous machines such as chainsaws, is always recommended. At Makita, we offer a wide
Think about the accessories for your tool, whether it’s a chainsaw, or any tool. The correct attachments and complementary products can make a difficult task easy. For example, a carry bag is ideal for transporting and storing your chainsaw and a saw horse will safely hold logs in place to make cutting simple and efficient.
Maintaining equipment is essential to prolonging the life of your product to keep it in good working order, so that it can continue to tackle jobs as expected and we ofchecksmaintenanceundertakingrecommendroutineattheendeachday.
This sounds obvious, but a model that isn’t suitable will leave users unhappy and frustrated, and with an increased workload. It might be tempting to opt for cheaper models, perhaps hoping the machine will ‘make do’, or perhaps unwittingly buying a product where the manufacturer has made performance claims that can’t be substantiated, or the product hasn’t been tested to full quality standards –a particular issue when it comes to third party batteries sold on online marketplace sites.
• A cover allows the blade to be stored safely
• A stop at the handle end prevents slipping
• Guaranteed corrosion-free use for long periods of time husqvarna.com/uk
LEAF BLOWER LB 930/36 BP
• 36 V battery platform that can be used on other machines in the range
• Superb sawing performance guaranteed with little use of force
CURVED PRUNING SAW 300CU LATEST KIT FROM POWER TOOLS TO THE MOST HANDHELD ITEMS TO HAVE IN YOUR TOOLBELT
Pro Landscaper / Equipment Supplementprolandscapermagazine .com 23
• Total length of 47cm, ideal for cutting thicker branches husqvarna.com/uk
• The ergonomic handle offers better grip and comfort
• Compatible with STIHL's Smart Connector 2 A
• Lock off function and electric brake makitauk.com
• Overload indicator lamp and anti-restart function
RGA 140 CORDLESS BRUSHCUTTER
• Water supply kit can be connected to the machine
• Max air speed of 60m/s
PRUNING SAW 200FO
A powerful cordless solution that delivers an impressive maximum output of 3,600W and a no-load speed of 5,300rpm. Its large 355mm wheel diameter offers a cutting capacity of 127mm.
Stihl’s RGA 140 features oscillating disc blades with low rotational energy, enabling low-spin mowing on hard surfaces and around fragile obstacles such as cars or greenhouses.
MAKITATOOLSHANDUK HUSQVARNASTIHLKÄRCHERHUSQVARNA CE001GT201 – XGT 80VMAX 355MM DISC CUTTER WITH 2X 5AH (40VMAX) BATTERIES & TWIN PORT CHARGER
• Active Feedback Sensing Technology (AFT) protects user and machine
• The saw is lightweight and made from quality steel
The Husqvarna Foldable Pruning Saw is the ideal cutting solution for landscape professionals, offering maximum safety and high comfort with an ergonomic handle, rust resistance and the highest quality blade.
• Hard chrome plating improves solidity and rust resistance
• Reduces safety distances to 3m from objects and 5m from people
• Boasts a 230mm cutting diameter and ergonomic controls
• 14 (N) blowing power kaercher.com/uk
• Features a quiet EC motor with three-speed settings
The Husqvarna Curved Pruning Saw 300CU has a rigid, curved saw blade with a 40cm total length, offering high sawing performance, quiet running, effort-saving sawing and a very long lifetime.
• The blade features impulse-hardened precision toothing and triple grinding
• Low vibration mechanism – at front handle 2.0 m/s²
• Compatible with AP 500 S battery stihl.co.uk
This battery-powered leaf blower from Kärcher offers exceptional power output with zero emissions. Able to clear leaves, debris and waste at lightning speed, the LB 930/36 Bp is ideal for those working in noise-sensitive areas as its electricpowered brushless motor greatly reduces noise output.
• Up to 50% quieter than petrol-powered machines
FOLDABLE
light
• Outstanding combination of chain and
Compatible with STIHL’s Smart Connector 2 A
• The ergonomic, asymmetrical handle offers better grip and comfort
LATEST KIT
petrol.
• Automatic chain
EGO POWER PLUS
• Automatic chain tensioning for set-up
•
Distributor: Henton & Chattell.
CHAINSAWS
• Improved ergonomics for comfort and
•
branches
• Lightweight – weighing just 4.1kg
EGO
IT’S BATTERY OR PETROL YOU’RE LOOKING FOR, THERE ARE PLENTY OF OPTIONS POWERFUL ENOUGH TO DO THE JOB
apairedlubricationwith150mloilreservoir
STIHL
CS1610E
The CS1610E 40cm chainsaw from makes work of tough logs and without the noise, fumes, or fuss of
KIT prolandscapermagazine .comPro Landscaper / Equipment Supplement24
ease
The Husqvarna 450 Mark II chainsaw is a new and updated second-generation chainsaw, a powerful all-rounder featuring an advanced ergonomic design for safe and precise cutting.
• Ideal for landscapers cutting small and medium diameter timber husqvarna.com/uk
speed
high torque
and adjustment
easy
WHETHER
HUSQVARNA
– 40CM CHAINSAW 450 MARK II CHAINSAW
• A centrifugal air cleaning system provides extended operating time
without the battery egopowerplus.co.uk Stihl’s MSA 300 is the most powerful cordless chainsaw in its AP System, offering landscapers plenty of power for taking on larger cutting tasks ecommended with a 16” Light 04 guide bar and .325” RS Pro chain for fast cutting eatures LED digital display for active user notifications ee operating modes match the chain speed to the task at hand, extending battery run-time
• Anti-vibration dampeners absorb vibration, protecting arms and hands
Recommended use with AP 500 S battery, capable of up to 2,400 charge cycles stihl.co.uk
• Delivers lower fuel consumption and reduced exhaust emission levels
www.fuelwood.co.uk01926484673 ● Compact, powerful and portable ● Efficient, effective and safe to operate ● Perfect for chipping branches up to 12cm thick ● Unique drum design; pulls branches in, chips them and ejects clean cut wood chips ● High and low outputs to create the shredded material for accelerated THATWOODCHIPPERScompostingDOTHEJOB For expert gardeners and professionals www.gtmchippers.co.uk
The official job board of Pro Landscaper magazine Please contact Mark Wellman to advertise your vacancy: Email: mark.wellman@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 574 hiring? Advertise your job on horticulture careers for free! *Offer only valid for first time users of the site Landscaping jobs ARE YOU TopHorticultureresults Careers – www.horticulturecareers.co.uk
SO FRESH CHAINSAW TROUSER PPE LATEST KIT
• Intelligent ambient mode allows the user to clearly hear their surroundings – it deactivates when a loud noise is detected for protection
SAFETY COMES FIRST, AND YOU CAN IMPROVE YOURS WITH THESE MARKET
STIHL
• EN381-5 Class 1 Design Type A protection against chainsaw cuts
CARR’S BILLINGTON SAFETY
• SafeMax™ technology limits volume to 85 dB
• Memory foam ear cushions and headband
• AAA battery compatible for added battery life when you need it isotunes.co.uk
• Accessory mounting zip on back –e.g. for first aid pouch
• Sizes S to 2XL carrs-billington-safety.com
• A range of up to 600m, depending on the terrain
The So Fresh Chainsaw Trousers from Solidur offer Class 1 Cut Protection. Ideal summer/autumn trouser and come with Coolmax lining, combined with mesh vents front and rear for additional airflow and comfort.
IMPRESSIVE
• Two side pockets, one rule pocket, one plug spanner holder/pocket and one bandage pocket
• Five-layer lightweight protective material
ADDITIONS
ISOTUNES
Stihl’s ADVANCE ProCOM headset offers forestry and landscaping professionals clear and high-quality communication in noisy environments, while offering a high level of ear protection.
KIT Pro Landscaper / Equipment Supplementwww. prolandscapermagazine .com 27
• Intercom mesh technology allows up to 16 headsets to link automatically
• IP 64 protection rating stihl.co.uk
SOLIDUR
• Background noisereducing boom microphone for clear calls in loud environments (microphone sold separately)
• Can be fitted to other 3M compatible helmets
STIHL ADVANCE PROCOM LINK 2.0
• Raised buttons for easy handling
ISOtunes' bestselling ear defenders have an upgrade – now featuring a padded headband cushion, up to 50 hours of battery life and a boom microphone for crystal clear calls.
Nimble for complex lawns. Powerful for the whole garden. Tested beyond industry standards. Swift Discover more at stiga.com/uk/swift
