Equipment Today September 2023 by ForConstructionPros.com

Helping

A bold vision for tomorrow.

Now as DEVELON we will continue to develop onwards — expanding our equipment lineup, delivering outstanding value and developing new technologies to address future challenges. Our vision is to help build your success.

Discover

more.

you optimize ROI on your construction equipment

2023

SEPTEMBER

Premium features come standard.

To ensure a high return on your investment, we include more premium features as standard — features that often come with an additional cost from other manufacturers.

We’ve also expanded our lineup of innovative equipment and continue to deliver the dedicated customer service you expect from a local dealer.

DEVELON,

With

you get a competitive edge to maximize your job site productivity and bottom line.

SEPTEMBER 2023

AVOIDING THE HAZARDS OF DEMOLITION

JOBSITE SAFETY INVOLVES OEMS, OPERATORS, CONTRACTORS AND EVERYONE ON THE SITE.

CONTRACTORS’ TOP 50 NEW PRODUCTS #1 Market

Leaders

How Precise Locating Tech Is Improving Utility Construction Safety

Helping you optimize ROI on your construction equipment

All it takes for the challenges you face.

Moving, lifting, digging or loading, Wacker Neuson vertical lift skid steers and compact track loaders are designed to handle tough applications. In addition to high hinge pin heights, these versatile machines also feature the best service accessibility in the industry and comfortable cabs with simple, intuitive operation. For lighter-duty work, as well as commercial or residential landscape projects, Wacker Neuson’s stand-on utility track loaders are the perfect ﬁt in conﬁned spaces.

Put your job site challenges to the test. Contact your local Wacker Neuson dealer or visit us online today.

www.wackerneuson.com

COVER STORY

Contractors’ Top 50 New Products

Many winners were launched or featured during construction events.

DEPARTMENTS

BREAKING GROUND

The Joy of Driving Big Equipment & Our Top New Products

An August event at Volvo CE gave me the chance to drive my largest vehicle yet.

EQUIPMENT INTRODUCTIONS

New & Noteworthy

Some of the latest equipment available.

PROFIT MATTERS

Tilson CTO Offers Software Tips for Utility Contractors

With utility contractors bracing for explosive growth, we asked Tilson CTO Jason Burns what his company was using and what steers their advisory group gives utility contractors.

BRIDGING THE GAP

8 Ways to Run a Better Construction Business

Everything I have learned in my decades-long masonry career is reflected in these eight lessons: Put your culture first, learn from your mistakes, share your knowledge, be confident, believe in the old and new, and always be a neighbor.

FEATURES

16 20 22 28 30 36

EARTHMOVING TRENDS

Avoiding Demolition Hazards

Jobsite safety involves the OEMs, operators, contractors and everyone on the site.

EARTHMOVING TRENDS

Downsizing for the Win

Compact excavators’ benefits and advantages.

EARTHMOVING TRENDS

How to Get the Best ROI on Equipment: Renting vs. Buying

Just as it’s important to examine factors such as market conditions when determining whether to rent or buy a mini excavator, it’s also helpful to have a good understanding of inventory.

EARTHMOVING TRENDS

8 Elements of ADCM & the Future of Technology on the Jobsite Site prep best practices: what works today, what contractors need to let go of and where the industry should be headed.

EARTHMOVING TRENDS

Winch Optimization on New Fire Dozer Packages

Feedback from agencies helped inform the engineering of new fire dozer packages for the Caterpillar D5 and its predecessor, the D6N.

UNDERGROUND UTILITY EQUPMENT

Equipment for Underground Utility Construction

Numerous equipment and technology offerings are enhancing underground utility construction employees’ productivity and safety long term.

34 40

PRODUCT ROUNDUPS

EARTHMOVING TRENDS

The latest equipment for moving dirt.

UTILITY EQUIPMENT

WEB EXCLUSIVES

PREMIUM

September 2023 | EQUIPMENT TODAY 3 www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment Contents www.forconstructionpros.com/equipment September 2023 | Vol. 59 No. 9 Published and copyrighted 2023 by AC Business Media Equipment Today makes every effort to report manufacturers’ product news accurately, but is not responsible for validity of news claims. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage or retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher. SUBSCRIPTION POLICY: Individual subscriptions are available without charge in the U.S. and Canada to management, engineering, supervisory, equipment maintenance and other personnel who have buying influence in the construction equipment industry. Subscribe online at www.ForConstructionPros. com. Publisher reserves the right to reject non-qualified subscribers. One year subscription to non-qualified individuals: U.S. $50; Canada/Mexico $70; all other countries $100 (payable in U.S. funds, drawn on U.S. bank). Single copies available (prepaid only) $10.00 each (U.S., Canada & Mexico), $15.00 each (International). For change of address or subscription information call (847) 559-7598 or fax (847) 291-4816. Equipment Today (USPS 369-290, ISSN 0891-141X) is published is published 12x with issues of January, February, March, April, May, June, September, August, September, October, November and December by AC Business Media, 201 N. Main St. Ste 350, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. Periodicals postage paid at Fort Atkinson, WI, and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Please send change of address to Equipment Today, PO Box 3605, Northbrook, IL 60065-3605. Printed in the USA. Canada Post PM40612608. Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Equipment Today, PO Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2.

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The technology and equipment for underground utility construction. 6



Lori Ditoro Editor-in-Chief Equipment Today lditoro@ACBusinessmedia.com

The JOY of Driving BIG Equipment & Our Top New Products

EDITORIAL

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LIST RENTAL

Sr. Account Manager Bart Piccirillo, Data Axle 402-836-2768 | bart.piccirillo@data-axle.com

On Friday, Aug. 18, 2023, I attended a presentation and ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) campus in Shippensburg, Penn. During the presentation, Volvo CE marked the production of the DD25 Electric Compactor, a battery-electric machine that touts 30% more power than diesel, with first models expected to deliver later this year.

I also had the opportunity to talk with Ray Gallant, vice president — sustainability and productivity solutions, North America, Volvo CE, and rode in and drove an A45FS articulated haul truck.

Volvo CE expects to receive a $1.1 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to conduct a pilot project of its new DD25 Electric asphalt compactor in California. The company will put another $758,000 toward the project, bringing the total to nearly $1.9 million.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was for the new technical training center on the campus. Taking two years to build, it is for Volvo CE dealer service technicians who work on diesel and electric heavy equipment, machine control

technology, connectivity and productivity services, and more. The new center doubles the number of students that can be trained in a year, compared to its former off-site location. It will also provide hands-on and virtual training to Volvo employees globally.

After the formal events, I had the chance to interview Gallant and climb into the A45FS. The ride was amazing and then getting to drive it was so much fun. I even took it up and down a hill, which admittedly was intimidating. However, it was easy to drive, almost like driving my car.

CONTRACTORS’ TOP 50 NEW PRODUCTS

We are excited to announce the Contractors’ Top 50 New Products on page 6. From telematics to excavators, every area of construction equipment and technology is represented with these products. Make sure you check out all the winners and use the QR codes to get more information. Congratulations to all our winners!

REPRINTS & LICENSING

Assoc. Brand Director Nikki Lawson nlawson@acbusinessmedia.com

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4 EQUIPMENT TODAY | September 2023 www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment BREAKING GROUND

Published by AC Business Media 201 N. Main Street, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 (800) 538-5544 www.ACBusinessMedia.com www.ForConstructionPros.com/equipment www.IronPros.com

 Lori Ditoro and Amy Crouse, Volvo head PR & exhibitions region North America, during the Volvo event. Lori Ditoro gets ready to drive the Volvo A45FS articulated haul truck

Trust United Rentals to solve your storage and office space needs. United Rentals offers the broadest range of equipment and solutions including storage containers, ground-level offices, prefab office buildings, modular classrooms, modular buildings and more. No matter your need, we will provide the storage and workspace solutions delivered by the strongest customer service team in the industry. Call 800.546.1050 or visit UnitedRentals.com/Containers Storage Containers & Mobile Offices.

The Winners: Contractors’ Top 50 New Products

With the return of bauma in 2022 and CONEXPO-CON/AGG (CONEXPO) in March 2023, new and exciting products for the construction industry have been a hot topic during the past year. As a result, several of the top product winners this year were launched or featured during CONEXPO or bauma.

The Contractors’ Top New Products Awards showcase new equipment, technology and products that the construction industry and the Equipment Today team have identified as the most intriguing and innovative of the year.

Award recipients are based on nominations and page view data on new products featured in Equipment Today and on ForConstructionPros.com during a one-year period from April 2022 through April 2023.

We are thrilled for all the winners and excited to share them with you!

AUSA D151AEG ELECTRIC DUMPER

AUSA’s new electric dumper has a 3,300lb. payload on its swing skip, allowing you to offload earth, rubble, or other materials at any angle with a simple movement of the joystick. Due to its compact size, this machine is designed for earthworks in reduced spaces, e.g. municipal works, property renovations, small demolitions and landscaping.

It is the first 3,300-lb. dumper on the market that is equipped with a lithiumion battery power unit, batteries that are known for their reliability and durability. In the case of this dumper, it features a pack with a 9.3-kWh capacity, enough for at least one full day of work with this type of equipment.

BOBCAT S7X ALL-ELECTRIC SKID-STEER LOADER

The Bobcat S7X is an all-electric skidsteer loader. Powered by a 60.5 kW, lithium-ion battery, the loader emits zero emissions, allowing it to tackle tough jobs on environmentally sensitive worksites or indoors where exhaust is restricted. The loader promotes sustainability without sacrificing performance.

The S7X is built to be more productive from the ground up. Its drive system consists of electric motors and ball-screw actuators that deliver more power than its diesel-hydraulic.

This skid-steer loader offers operators a smooth and comfortable experience with minimal vibration and nearly silent operation. Even with these differences, the S7X provides a familiar environment for equipment operators thanks to the dieselconsistent controls and instrumentation.

CATERPILLAR INDUSTRIAL POWER/PERKINS LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES

As part of the company’s strategy to support customers during the energy transition to a lower-carbon future, Caterpillar has announced the development of 48V, 300V and 600V batteries for the off-highway industry. The program focuses initially on battery solutions for equipment used predominantly in industrial applications.

The battery range uses lithiumion technology and features a modular design for performance and packaging. Furthermore, they have been engineered with sustainability in mind with the potential to reuse and recycle at the end of life.

CATERPILLAR 350 HYDRAULIC EXCAVATOR

The Cat 350 Excavator delivers classleading productivity, redefining efficiency and performance on demanding jobsites. Featuring a powerful digging force and strong swing torque, the 350 effortlessly maneuvers large buckets to get the work done with ease.

Three power mode options match the excavator to the job to reduce fuel consumption. Standard technologies increase efficiency, including Cat 2D Grade and 2D E-Fence. Assist technologies help operators stay on grade and use less fuel. Cat Payload gives real-time weight estimates, allowing operators to achieve precise load targets consistently.

CHEVRON ANTIFREEZE COOLANT

Delo ELC Antifreeze/Coolant products are single-phase, ethylene-glycol-based, nitrited organic additive technology products available in different dilutions that are based on patented aliphatic carboxylate corrosion inhibitor technology specifically formulated for heavy-duty cooling system applications that require nitrite.

Delo ELC is free of nitrates, borates, silicates, phosphates and amines. It is recommended for use in a variety of cooling system applications including on-road, off-road and stationary engine applications. These products are also recommended for mixed fleet applications where heavy-duty and light-duty trucks are present.

COJALI USA INC. JALTEST OFFHIGHWAY DIAGNOSTICS

Cojali released Jaltest 22.2, the second version of the company’s diagnostics software. Jaltest renews itself every four months and every update aims to expand the software’s features.

This software evolution comes as a response to both the changes within the industrial vehicle industry and the current demands of users. These updates allow Jaltest to be a solution that serves the day-to-day needs of repair shops and fleets.

DEVELON DD100 DOZER

DEVELON introduced its first dozer— the DD100—in North America in 2022, competing in the 140 hp and under category. Standard premium features for the DD100 dozer include DEVELON fleet management telematics for remote monitoring; ECO mode for reduced fuel consumption; a rearview camera for enhanced visibility; a blade shake feature for removing material stuck to the blade; and an easy-to-read, user-friendly touchscreen display for access to the dozer’s functions and machine settings.

EARTHWAVE FLEETWATCHER ESCALATING IDLE ALERT FEATURE

FleetWatcher’s Escalating Idle Alert proactively informs managers when equipment has been idling for too long, allowing immediate corrective action to be taken. This can help slash idle time, and extend equipment life span, or dramatically impact its value at trade-in.

• FleetWatcher monitors the rpm over time and actively alerts managers with a text or email when a preset threshold has been reached.

• Users set an excessive idle time threshold and then enter that into the third-party telematics platform.

EPIROC SMARTROC T25 R

The SmartROC T25 R radio remote construction rig features exceptional coverage area with versatile boom options, excellent terrainability for safety and productivity, and a Smart Rig Control System (RCS) reducing fuel consumption and environmental impact. Its Smart RCS enables precise drilling process tuning, quick setup, and future updates. Automatic adjustments to engine rpm and compressor load optimize efficiency.

The rig’s advanced boom geometry minimizes drill movements, maximizing productivity. With a 180-degree boom swing angle, 360-degree feed swing, and varied feed lengths, it offers valuable application versatility in drilling. This innovative rig stands out with its technology, efficiency, and sustainable practices.

FECON FMX BULLHOG MULCHER

Fecon, a global manufacturer of heavy-duty site preparation attachments and forestry accessories, debuted the FMX28 Bull Hog compact excavator mulcher attachment at CONEXPO 2023.

GENIE GTH-1256 TELEHANDLER

The Genie GTH-1256 high-capacity telehandler was designed and tested for the realities of heavy-duty jobs. A strong load chart throughout the lifting range—not just max capacity—is important for productivity and provides flexibility to do more with one machine.

Proprietary, long-life Enduro A/T tires deliver performance in a variety of terrain and one-third longer wear before replacement is needed. Shared parts across the GTH product line further reduce owner costs and simplify fleet maintenance.

GOMACO GP460 PLACER/SPREADER SLIPFORM PAVER

With its debut at CONEXPO 2023, the GOMACO GP460 is the industry’s first combination concrete slipform paver and placer/spreader on two tracks. Designed for wider-width operations, as a placer/spreader with a 60-in. (1,524-mm) belt, the GP460 will accommodate widths up to 50 ft. (15.2 m) wide. As a concrete slipform paver, the GP460 will pave widths up to 40 ft. (12.2 m) wide.

It’s built on the framework of the GOMACO two-track GP4 slipform paver with the ability to convert the prime mover into a concrete placer/spreader. The prime mover is equipped with vibrator circuits.

HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY ZX50U5N COMPACT EXCAVATOR

With its reduced tail-swing design, the compact 10,560-lb (4,790-kg) Hitachi ZX50U-5N is designed for working in congested areas. An independent swing boom lets you set up and work almost anywhere. Unobstructed visibility and control make it a great tool for excavating around existing utilities.

The ZX50U-5N offers height and reach to get up and over truck sideboards with a maximum reach of 19 ft. 7 in. (5.96 m). It also provides a maximum dig depth of 11 ft., 7 in. (3.53 m). Engine speed can be matched to the job with power/economy work modes, which are usually only available on larger excavators.

HYUNDAI CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT HS

120V SKID STEER

Hyundai announced the HS120V skid steer, designed for many construction jobs including debris removal, demolition, loading, clearing, lifting and excavation. It is equipped with a Tier-4-Final diesel engine. With a maximum lifting height of 13 ft., 4 in., the skid steer’s boom has a vertical lift path when raising the bucket. An auto-leveling system keeps the bucket stable without manual adjustments. With an enclosed cab design, operators can access a 12-V electrical outlet and USB outlet for powering or charging.

IGNITE ATTACHMENTS GRAPPLE FAMILY

Ignite Attachments launched a new line of grapple attachments for construction and landscaping applications. The root grapple headlined the grapple line launch in late April, with the bucket grapple following the first week of May, the rock grapple the second week of May and a rake grapple to come later this year. It aims to improve operations in industries that use mini excavators, compact wheel loaders, multiterrain loaders, compact track loaders and skid steer loaders.

IRONCRAFT 4-N-1 POWER RAKE ATTACHMENT

The 4-N-1 Power Rake Attachment was designed because there was a need in the industry to be able to combine the functions of these attachments. It makes landscaping jobs involving a power rake quicker and more efficient, while also cutting out the number of attachments needed for a job. After power raking, you can scoop or clamp the accumulated material. The 4-N-1 Power Rake Attachment is also efficient and effective for leveling/planing/ backfilling.

JCB ELECTRIC EQUIPMENT

JCB has a corporate saying that “innovation is our lifeblood.” The need for new thinking never diminishes and JCB is focused on developing the machines that will support construction and agriculture in a zerocarbon future.

JLG E18MCL VERTICAL MAST LIFT

The JLG E18MCL vertical mast lift is well suited for applications that require outdoor- and indoor-capable machines for up-and-over work as an alternative to using ladders and scaffolding. The “E” in this model’s nomenclature stands for “Electric,” and it has scissor-style steering. The E18MCL’s platform height is 18 ft. indoors and 13 ft. outdoors. It can go on most freight elevators, work on sensitive flooring and fit through doorways.

JOHN DEERE 335 P-TIER

John Deere introduced a new generation of large-frame 335 P-tier compact track loaders for hauling, surface grading, material loading and equipment transportation on construction sites. The construction vehicles in the P-tier series feature redesigned cabs, heated and vented seats, touchscreen displays, hands-free Bluetooth technology and JDLink telematics.

KATO-CES 9V5 MINI EXCAVATOR

The all-new, redesigned KATO 9V5 ultra-mini zero tail swing excavator is a much faster and easier alternative to any shovel or wheelbarrow for working in tight spaces. With its ultra small size and roll down ROPS the 9V5 can even fit through doorways, standard yard gate, and even the tightest spaces making it ideal for any project. The 9V5 features high operator comfort thanks to low vibration and noise, improved interface with digital hour counter, and improved machine stability with improved weight distribution and a larger front blade.

KOBELCO SK350LC11 EXCAVATOR

KOBELCO Construction Machinery

launched the new SK350LC-11 excavator. The new SK350LC-11 features a 265-hp Isuzu Tier 4 Final engine. With the press of a switch, the machine dedicates one hydraulic pump to the travel system and one to all the other functions. This allows the 11-series Kobelco machines to travel while lifting and swinging heavy loads.

KOMATSU PC900LC-11

Built for tough jobs, the Komatsu PC900LC-11 excavator is designed for heavy construction, demolition, material handling, deep sewer, water, large mass excavation, and mining or quarry. It offers 25% more arm crowd force and 12% more swing torque. The new counterweight removal system helps with moving and the boom configuration reduces transport height.

KUBOTA TRACTOR SVL75-3 COMPACT TRACK LOADER

Kubota Tractor Corp. announced the newest addition to its popular compact track loader lineup with the introduction of the SVL75-3. Powered by a 74.3-hp Kubota engine with higher maximum torque, and features that include an innovative advanced multifunction valve for smooth simultaneous operation of all hydraulic functions, a new 7-in. color LCD panel with jog dial that puts a wide range of functions and information at the operator’s fingertips and a new one-piece sealed cab. The SVL75-3 is available now at Kubota dealerships.

LEICA GEOSYSTEMS BLK360

The new BLK360 creates accurate digital image data within 20 seconds. Its sensor is designed for any application requiring up-to-date scanning, such as digital construction and building lifecycle monitoring. It enables users to move without interruption, viewing and sharing the data during capture to provide real-time access to updated digital twins.

LIEBHERR MID-SIZE WHEEL LOADERS

Liebherr redeveloped and revised its range of mid-sized wheel loaders. The three models, L 526, L 538 and L 546, in the latest Generation 8 have bucket sizes between 2.2 m3 and 3.0 m3; in the standard version and are characterized by an increase in performance compared to the previous generation. The new L 526, for example, has around 20% more engine power and more than 20% higher breakout forces than its predecessor.

The newly designed lift arm ensures maximum breakout, holding and lowering forces. It has optimized z-bar kinematics and improved working hydraulics.

LINCOLN ELECTRIC POWER MIG 215 MPI MULTI-PROCESS WELDER

The POWER MIG 215 MPi multi-process welder is a reliable, easy-to-use machine for the general fabricator, small contractor or repair personnel. The sleek and solid ergonomic design with multiple lift points maximizes mobility around the shop. The user-friendly technology makes the setup process and selection of weld settings incredibly simple. Take on any job with the versatile POWER MIG 215 MPi welder.

LINK-BELT EXCAVATORS X4S SERIES

The new X4S line from Link-Belt focuses on performance and innovative features, offering power and high productivity to provide operators with lower daily operating costs. The line is equipped with forwardthinking technologies, including custom flow balance and four new work modes, which help to improve cycle times by up to 5% and fuel efficiency by up to 19%.

Cab comfort and safety are at the forefront of the line, with a 10-in. portrait monitor and WAVES 270°, giving remarkable site awareness. Dual LED cab lights are standard on all models, and the all-new hydraulic oil sampling port is hassle-free, requiring no tools.

LOFTNESS SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENT, INC.

BATTLE AX S SERIES

Loftness updated its Battle Ax S Series mulching head with new features for durability and serviceability. Designed for skid steers and compact track loaders with 28-gpm to 62.9-gpm hydraulic flow and 50 hydraulic hp to 150 hydraulic hp, the S Series now includes a reversible secondary shear bar in the two-stage cutting chamber to allow a fresh cutting edge.

After all four edges of the shear bar have been exhausted, the component can be replaced via a bolt-on mechanism. Previously, the secondary shear bar was welded on the front bumper, and only the primary shear bar was replaceable.

MACK TRUCKS GRANITE WITH IMPROVED VISIBILITY

Mack Trucks launched an updated Mack Granite model at World of Concrete 2023. The refreshed vocational truck features a new, more modern fascia with an updated chrome grille and self-heating LED headlamps with brighter illumination, improving forward visibility by up to 29% and peripheral visibility by up to 50%.

The new grille and air intakes modernize the look of the Granite, and the choice of two grille treatments offers customers another way to customize their vehicles.

MANITOU NORTH AMERICA 2750VT COMPACT LOADER

Manitou launched three all new “V Series” compact skid steer loaders and three “VT Series” compact track loaders to the North American market: 2100V, 2300V, 2750V, 2100VT, 2300VT and the 2750VT. These new models have a capacity of 2,100 lbs. to 2,750 lbs. The new loaders feature keyless start requiring only code activation, LED lighting, and a patented Pilot joystick system as standard, adjacent to the operator’s seat.

MILWAUKEE TOOL MX FUEL CONCRETE VIBRATOR

Dedicated to the concrete contractor, the MX FUEL Equipment System was developed to deliver the performance and durability demanded by the trades. Safer, more reliable, and more productive than running extension cords and generators, the MX FUEL Concrete Vibrator eliminates exposure to emissions and tripping hazards.

MINNICH MANUFACTURING A-1CL SINGLE GANG MINNI DOWEL PIN DRILL

ROOSTER ASSET TRACKING SYSTEM

The Rooster Asset Tracking System is an equipment management tool that tracks activity and automates reporting. It provides visibility, accountability and efficiency for any asset in inventory using a patented pairing protocol based on the LoRa longrange standard with a ½-mile range.

Rugged Activity Trackers capture every minute of activity for up to five years and transmit that data to Rooster Hubs up to a ½ mile away and through most concrete and metal Hubs nearby.

SANY SMG200AWD

Designed to be highly functional, easy to operate, and easy to maintain, the SMG200AWD grader is intuitive to operate—even for new operators. Some SMG200AWD standard features are:

8.9L Cummins engine, 14-ft. blades, front auxiliary hydraulics, transmission and rear brake line guards, wet disc brakes for improved handling with all-wheel drive, low -maintenance circle bearing, adjustable independent control positions for operators, AM/FM radio with bluetooth capabilities, multifunctional LCD FOPS- and ROPS-certified cab.

STELLAR SINGLE-REEL UTILITY & TELECOM TRAILERS

MOROOKA MST80C CRAWLER CARRIER

The Morooka MST80C is designed for construction projects and material handling tasks. It features a range of improvements compared to the previous model.

Equipped with a 228-hp Cummins B6.7 Tier 4 Final engine, the Morooka MST80C features auto deceleration when not in operation. This machine has a payload capacity of nearly 18,000-lb. The carrier serves as a mid-sized addition for fleets.

TAKEUCHI TB350R SHORT TAIL SWING COMPACT EXCAVATOR

Takeuchi developed the TB350R short tail swing compact excavator to deliver a unique combination of performance, durability, operator comfort and serviceability. A rear swing overhang of just 2.95 in. allows operators to focus on their work and worry less about rear-swing impacts. To improve the operator’s experience and enhance their productivity, Takeuchi completely redesigned the TB350R’s interior for greater comfort.

Maintenance is simple with a wide-opening rear engine service door and a right-side cover that opens overhead for quick access to key daily inspection points. Takeuchi’s Fleet Management telematics system comes standard, providing valuable information, remote diagnostics and scheduled maintenance reminders. Read More at https://eqtoday.co/9z3k2t

September 2023 | EQUIPMENT TODAY 11 www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment CONTRACTORS’ TOP 50 New Products

TENNA TENNACAM 2.0 DASH CAMERA WITH AI TECHNOLOGY

Safety is the No. 1 priority when traveling on the road. TennaCAM 2.0, with exterior and optional interior video capabilities, helps contractors find the truth behind safety incidents and protects businesses and drivers from liability. Different settings choices allow users to customize their cameras to best suit their organization’s needs for safety, privacy, and liability management.

THUNDER CREEK MULTI-TANK OIL TRAILER

TOPCON POSITIONING SYSTEMS 2D-MC

Topcon Positioning Systems announced the 2D-MC, an automatic grade control solution for compact track loaders.

Designed for slope work, sidewalk grading, road base and drain rock replacement, parking lots, sports fields, landscaping, flat pads, indoor work and concrete site prep, 2D-MC is an automatic grade control solution capable of adapting to different grading attachments for compact equipment.

TORO EDINGO 500

Toro engineers built the eDingo 500 to allow contractors and construction professionals to reap all the benefits and power of a standard CUL with zero exhaust emissions and a significantly lower cost of operation. The new design is now capable of fitting through even the tightest of doorways with a narrow width of 30 in., yet still boasts a rated operating capacity of 515 lbs. and 6.5-gpm hydraulic flow. The HyperCell Power System allows for all-day run times.

TRIMBLE SITEWORKS MACHINE GUIDANCE MODULE

Trimble introduced the Trimble Siteworks Machine Guidance Module, extending the capabilities of Trimble Siteworks Software. With the addition of the new module, contractors can use the same site positioning systems hardware and software to perform tasks on the jobsite, including surveying, machine guidance, in-field design and reporting.

VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT L350H WHEEL LOADER

The L350H is built upon the success of the L350F, first introduced in 2007. Upgraded with the latest technology, the L350H is ready to tackle a range of applications, from mining and quarrying to heavy infrastructure.

Customers can take advantage of specialized packages with features for log loading, rock loading, rehandling, block handling or slag handling.

WACKER NEUSON ST27 TRACK LOADER

WEILER P385C COMMERCIAL PAVER

The Weiler P385C’s improvements provide performance, reliability and outstanding mat quality. The P385C features a Cat C3.6 engine-120 hp (90 kW)-for better power. The undercarriage features a 90-in. (2286mm) track length, 68 in. (1727 mm) of ground contact and a 140-mm track chain pitch.

WIRTGEN SP 20(I) OFFSET SLIPFORM PAVER

The production of concrete safety barriers with a height of up to 2 m and the paving of flat surfaces with widths of up to 2.5 m are typical applications for the SP 20(i) offset paver. With the machine, Wirtgen offers its customers the ideal combination of productivity and mobility. Despite the large paving widths and heights that it offers, the machine has a low transport weight and compact dimensions.

YANMAR MINI EXCAVATORS

Yanmar introduced several firsts, including the self-propelled mini excavator, the first swing boom excavator and the first zero tail swing excavator. Yanmar’s lineup includes zero tail swing and ultra-tightturning excavators, which feature either no protrusion beyond the track or minimal protrusion. The company backs its mini excavators with a four-year/4,000-hour bumper-to-bumper warranty. Additionally, Yanmar’s SmartAssist Remote telematics comes standard on all excavators, free for the first five years. The telematics’ range from error detection and work reports to integrated theft protection.

IronCraft Snow Cannon

IronCraft Snow Cannon tractor snow blowers are designed to move heavy, wet snow. Offered in three models, the attachment is compatible with 12-hp to 50-hp tractors. Operators can use the Snow Cannon for site preparation, commercial snow clearing jobs (driveways, parking lots and pathways) and landscaping. Welded augers with high-tensile strength ribbon flighting, a heavy-duty gearbox and replaceable skid shoes provide durability and reliability. A manual pin-style deflector can be found on the attachment.

DEVELON DL320-7 Wheel Loader

The DEVELON DL3207 wheel loader is part of the next-generation -7 Series lineup, featuring upgrades such as increased bucket capacity, a redesigned cab with comfort features and fuel-saving technologies. The DL320-7 offers a 7% larger capacity bucket (4.5 yd3) and axle upgrades. The increased capacity has been designed to provide faster, easier loading in fewer cycles. Standard features include powershift 4-speed transmission, multiple power modes, Z-bar lift arm, return to dig and limited slip differentials. The machine comes with a 271 -hp engine, has an operating weight of 43,506 lbs., a bucket capacity of 4.5 yd3, and a static tipping load of 30,461 lbs.

FAE RCU-55

Equipped with a 56-hp KOHLER KDI 1903 turbocharged engine, the RCU-55 can work on steep slopes up to 55 degrees. This compact tracked carrier can mulch vegetation up to a 5-in. diameter with the BL1/RCU mulcher head and small shrubs and vegetation up to a 2-in. diameter with the PML/RCU mulcher head. The BL1/RCU mulcher head has a working width of 49 in., while the PML/RCU mulcher head features a 59-in. working width. The heavy-duty undercarriage of the RCU-55 features a hydraulic variable track system with independent undercarriage frames for stability on steep terrain.

Makita 36V LXT Material Handlers

The three 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless Material Handlers offer three forward speeds with one reverse and a maximum load capacity of over 650 lbs. Each material handling solution is powered by a 36V brushless motor and two 18V LXT batteries, the same batteries that are compatible with over 325 LXT tools and products.

˜ XUC04Z: The 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless Material Handling with Dump Bucket features a large 200-L bucket, with a load capacity of 660 lbs.

˜ XUC05Z: The 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless Material Handling, Dump/Pipe Frame features a pipe frame configuration with a load capacity of 650 lbs. for transporting a wide range of materials on the jobsite.

˜ XUC06Z: The 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless Material Handling, Flat Bucket features a large 295-L bucket with a load capacity of 660 lbs.

Husqvarna LFe 60 LAT Battery-Powered Compactor

Husqvarna Construction introduced its first batterypowered compactor, the LFe60 LAT. This new, forward plate compactor delivers compaction of soil and asphalt and runs on the Honda eGX battery platform. The LFe60 LAT combines reliable handling, no CO2 direct exhaust emissions during operation and smart capabilities in a single machine. Operators can access several features on the machine such as a push-start button, transport wheels, lowvibrations and a handle that folds for compact transport. The electric motor of the LFe60 LAT compactor also helps minimize downtime.

LiuGong 936F Crawler Excavator

The LiuGong 936F Crawler Excavator is designed for heavy digging and excavation. This 314-hp machine is powered by a six-cylinder, EPA Tier 4 Final L9 Cummins engine and features an operating weight of 85,538 lbs. Three accessible power modes, auto-idle and auto-shutdown help manage fuel consumption during use. Equipped with heavy-duty tracks, the 936F offers a maximum digging depth of 24 ft., 1 in. This combination allows the excavator to work near and above trenching areas, while maximizing reach. A large bucket capacity enables moving heavy loads.

AVOIDING DEMOLITION HAZARDS

Demolition work has its inherent hazards. Examples include the consequences of not using the appropriate safety equipment or not following proper safety procedures at work.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety training has outlined several demolition hazards.

Primary Demolition Hazards

OSHA notes that construction and demolition materials consist of the debris generated during the construction, renovation and

components such as doors, windows and plumbing fixtures. Trees, stumps, earth and rock from clearing sites may also be present. Primary hazards unique to demolition include:

˜ Changes from the structure’s design introduced during construction

˜ Modifications altering the original design

˜ Materials hidden within structural members such as lead, asbestos, silica and other chemicals

˜ Heavy metals requiring special material handling

˜ Unknown strengths or weaknesses of construction materials, such as post-tensioned concrete

˜ Personnel exposure to excessive dust, noise and vibration created by the demolition methods

of Scrap Recycling Industries. As such, he has a birds-eye view of demolition safety challenges.

“Hydraulically powered mobile shears and processors offer a controlled demolition process, making the process safer and more efficient,” he said of the prime way to mitigate the hazards to personnel.

Airborne Material Hazards

Marcus Barnes, senior product manager for Liebherr USA, noted that high exposure to airborne materials such as silica from the deconstruction of buildings is a common hazard. These materials can lead to illnesses such as lung cancer, he added.

“To help mitigate some of this risk for operators on equipment, you

Protecting Others on the Jobsite

For those outside the cab who are exposed, many excavators and highreach demolition equipment have water dust suppression systems at the end of the stick. They help minimize hazards in the air, Barnes noted.

He added, “This kind of equipment does the bulk of the deconstruction work on a jobsite. The water that is being sprayed through nozzles at the end of the stick helps in keeping the dust down.”

Equipment Design Promotes Safety

“Demolition is a rough and rugged application where hazards include falling debris, challenging visibility and pushing machines too far,”

16 EQUIPMENT TODAY | September 2023 www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment EARTHMOVING TRENDS

everyone on the site.

Liebherr

 High-reach excavators are often used on deconstruction sites of large industrial plants and city buildings.

noted Tony den Hoed, director, national accounts – demolition, Volvo Construction Equipment.

Safety is the highest priority on a demolition job, he pointed out. A design to address hazards is critical.

“A factory-fitted machine designed for demolition often means a safer machine,” den Hoed said. “A strong demolition-specific application package straight from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) is a great way to mitigate some risk because it will incorporate heavy-duty guarding specific to the machine and features that help with visibility, like bigger, stronger window panels and cameras.”

OEMs Differ in Approach

Aftermarket options are available. However, aftermarket packages can be expensive, often involve a third party, and can void machine warranties, den Hoed added.

“Even among factory-fitted demolition machines, there will be differences by brand,” he said. “For instance, almost every OEM that purpose-builds their high-reach excavators includes a modular joint boom concept, but the pins that hold the joint to the boom can differ.”

Some use a half hook for the top pin and short pins on the bottom. However, a well-designed demolition excavator uses full-length hydraulic pins, den Hoed said.

“Because they are hydraulic, an operator can pull them out without leaving the cab, which is always preferable,” he added.

Telematics can help prevent major downtime. They also spot instances of machine misuse. This supports safety and the total cost of ownership (TCO), den Hoed noted.

The Operator’s Role in Safety

Demolition safety depends in large part on the operator, as is noted in

“5

Tips to Maximize Jobsite Safety

With Remote-Controlled Demolition Machines,” on ForConstructionPros. com detailing five tips to maximize safety. Those tips include:

˜ Being vigilant

˜ Staying at arm’s length

˜ Conducting daily inspections

˜ Being mindful of overhead dangers

˜ Using personal protection

Safety First

To prevent and reduce hazards associated with the likely exposure to hazardous substances, OSHA has advised construction crews to conduct worksite inspections before beginning operations. Assess for the presence, contents and condition of tanks and equipment that might contain hazardous chemicals, gases or flammable materials. If the condition

of tanks or equipment is suspect, avoid disturbing them until after the assessment is completed.

Develop a plan of action to reduce exposure or eliminate hazardous substances. To eliminate hazardous substances that have been identified prior to and during demolition,

construction crews should purge lines, tanks and equipment containing hazardous chemicals, gases or flammable materials.

OSHA Guidance

OSHA also advises crews to use air monitoring equipment (a combustible

gas indicator, toxic gas monitor or oxygen monitor) to detect remaining hazards. When necessary, provide additional protection such as forced ventilation and respiratory protection.

Common accidents from demolition hazards are falls from elevated surfaces, exposure to

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hazardous air contaminants, being struck by falling or collapsing structures and electrical shock.

Engineering Surveys Identify Hazards

OSHA points out that the engineering survey must identify framing, floors, walls of the structure and any adjacent structures that might be unstable. Key engineering and work practice controls for the hazards associated with structural instabilities during demolition include shoring and/or bracing walls and floors as needed to maintain safe work areas during demolition activities.

A competent person can recognize existing and predictable hazardous conditions and has the authority to take quick corrective measures to eliminate them, OSHA notes. That person should maintain an ongoing presence to inspect the work area to detect hazards.

Demolition crews are advised to not allow falling debris, stored materials or heavy equipment to exceed the safe carrying capacity of the floor. Demolition work should be conducted from the topmost floors down. Loadsupporting members should not be cut or removed until upper or supported loads have been removed. During demolition, unsecured objects such as glass and structural members may fall while workers are under them.

Hazard Control Strategies

Control strategies for issues associated with unsecured hazards in the work area during demolition include using debris netting, sidewalk sheds, canopies or catch platforms to reduce falling objects, OSHA notes. Ensure that employee entrances to multistory structures are protected by sidewalk sheds or canopies or both to provide protection from the face of the building for a minimum of 8 feet. OSHA advises that canopies should be at least 2 feet wider than the building entrances or openings capable of sustaining a load of 150 pounds per square foot.

Check Utilities for Potential Hazards

OSHA also notes the importance of reducing or eliminating hazards from utilities that are not properly located and secured. To do so, verify the location of all other utility lines; ensure that the lines have been shut off, capped, or otherwise controlled outside the building before beginning work. Notify utility companies before controlling their utility lines.

Walkways Provide Safety

To prevent slips, trips and falls, the site should be set up so that safe walkways are provided and used to reach any point without having to walk on exposed beams. Walkways should be at least 18 inches wide and formed by using 2-inch-thick wood with stringers installed as needed for support.

To ensure safe access to the structure, crews should use only inspected and designated stairways, passageways and ladders designated as access points to the structure of a building. Other access points must always be entirely closed.

In a multistory building when a stairwell is being used for access or egress, OSHA advises that it must be properly illuminated by either natural or artificial means. It should be completely and substantially covered over at a point not less than two floors below the floor on which work is being performed. Access to the floor where the work is in progress must be properly lit and protected and serve as a separate passageway.

Confined Space Challenges

One type of confined space demolition at industrial sites includes those with open tops and a depth that restricts the natural movement of air. Another is enclosed spaces with limited openings for entry, including storage tanks, vessels, degreasers, pits vaults, casings and silos.

OSHA notes that the hazards encountered when entering and working in confined spaces can cause bodily injury, illness and death. Accidents occur when workers fail to recognize a confined space is a potential hazard. It should be considered that the most unfavorable situation exists in every case and the danger of explosion, poisoning and asphyxiation will be present at the onset of entry, OSHA points out.

Current Technologies & Equipment for Greater Demolition Safety

Current equipment and technology are expanding the field of options. They include factors that help keep the equipment—and workers—safe.

Lewandowski noted that “today, you will see demolition contractors all over the world using large mining machines with purpose-built ultrahigh reach front ends equipped with very capable mobile shears, concrete processors, pulverizers, hammers, rippers and grapples.

“High-reach demolition machines equipped with capable hydraulic attachments allow the modernday demolition contractor to go after difficult projects in difficult locations—in some cases, having a 13-ton Fortress mobile shear working 30 meters in the air, cutting something very large down in a very safe and controlled manner,” he added.

Liebherr’s high-reach excavators are often used on deconstruction sites of large industrial plants and city buildings, Barnes said. He indicated that the demolition front on the machines can range from 75 feet to 180 feet with the demolition tool used varying depending on machine size, working height of the demolition front and the machine’s hydraulic

capacity. Liebherr offers the Liebherr Demolition Control system for its highreach excavator. It helps the operator keep the machine from tipping.

“On a separate screen, the operator can always see where the demolition attachment is to ensure it is in a safe working zone,” said Barnes.

“In the restricted mode, the demolition attachment automatically stops if the operator puts the demolition attachment in a compromised position. Experienced operators like the supervisor mode where they can still be monitored but not limited,” he added.

Operator Safety Is Critical

“To keep the operator safe, impactresistant glass is used. An integral protection guard surrounds the cab as a steel cage to further protect the operator,” Barnes said.

A slew of equipment protection is used to keep the equipment from being totally damaged from falling debris and rebar on the ground, Barnes noted.

“Protections are used on all the exposed cylinder rods,” Barnes said. “Upper carriage protection also is used to reinforce the lower sides of the upper carriage and along with reinforced protection plates underneath. We also use track chain cleaners–also known as scrappers–on the crawler excavators to help prevent loose rebar from damaging the machine while it is tramming on a jobsite.”

Industry ‘Workhorses’ Ensure Optimal Safety

High-reach excavators and straight boom excavators remain the workhorses of most demolition jobs, den Hoed pointed out. Volvo highreach excavators are designed and built to ensure maximum safety with a sturdy frame and a falling object guard, he added.

“The roof window and front onepiece glass are made from P5A, which is resistant to high impacts. Carefully placed cameras also help ensure that the operator always has a clear view of the jobsite,” said den Hoed.

“Nighttime visibility is aided by standard LED lights on both the boom and platform. Additional lighting for the cabin and counterweight are available as options,” he added.

Technology Extends Safety Features

To address demolition safety, Volvo recently launched the Lifting Mode for Multi Demolition Boom feature. It allows a high-reach demolition excavator to serve as a safe carrier for the lifting of machine components from a trailer to the ground.

“This mode can simplify transporting equipment to jobsites because it allows the excavator to safely lift components, such as cradles and digging or high-reach booms, from the trailer to the ground, at which point they can be safely installed on the machine,” said den Hoed.

18 EQUIPMENT TODAY | September 2023 www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment

The solution consists of machine software designed for the controlled lifting of equipment and visual indicators outside the cab to warn bystanders that lifting is underway. The software also controls hydraulic pressure and engine speed.

“This lifting mode includes a certified lifting accessory designed to fit the patented modular joint design from the multi-demolition boom, which can easily be connected to the lower pin of the boom,” said den Hoed. “When all components are safely unloaded, switching to the highreach or digging boom is easy, thanks to that modular hydraulic joint.”

The TCO is reduced by eliminating the need for a mobile crane or second excavator. Emissions are reduced because fewer vehicles are onsite, den Hoed pointed out. Another way Volvo CE is working to improve demolition site safety is with remote control.

“This technology is great for customers working on dangerous or difficult jobsites or in environments where operators need an up-close view of the task itself,” den Hoed said. “The function can operate over a 100-meter distance, more than sufficient to maintain a close eye on the machine.”

Two-way communication via a radio transmitter and radio receiver allows the operator to communicate with the machine, he added. The system can easily be turned on and off with a switch inside the cab. A light

beacon outside the machine alerts that remote operation mode is in use.

Alternative Fuel Sources

Addressing the impact of alternativepowered equipment, den Hoed noted that electric equipment provides an emission-free way to work indoors.

“For example, we have an indoor demolition customer whose team used

to only work overnight so as not to bother others working in the building,” he pointed out.

“He has told us that having a Volvo CE ECR25 Electric compact excavator allows for more daytime work hours, which often means more alert operators. An electric machine also boosts safety because it is so quiet that workers can easily communicate while

it is running, and no exhaust means no scrubber required to clean the indoor exhaust.”

Read more at: https://eqtoday.co/demolition0923

Carol Brzozowski is a freelance writer for Equipment Today

EARTHMOVING TRENDS

Shearcore

DOWNSIZING FOR THE WIN

There’s no denying that compact excavators are becoming more popular. Contractors are demanding more features out of a smaller package, and manufacturers are responding by launching several new models less than 8 tons. The compact excavator market in 2022 was $8.9 billion in North America and is projected to reach $14.6 billion by 2031, according to market analysis by Straits Research. CONEXPO/CONAGG 2023 saw a glut of new machines, many of which were in the compact category, and several that were in the compact excavator category.

Compact excavators offer countless benefits and advantages. As always, they can fit into tight spaces. These newer models, though, are much more built out with advanced features than their predecessors. An excellent choice for trenching and other earthmoving tasks, compact excavators now offer more hydraulic flow, improved cab comfort, better fuel efficiency, modern telematics features, machine control and more. There are other reasons for the popularity. Compact excavators, quite simply, offer a lot of value for a lower price. Many don’t require a commercial driver license to operate, and the smaller machines tend to have easier cab controls, making them simpler for new workers to learn.

CASE Construction Equipment is building out a lineup of mini excavators to fill a demand for earthmoving equipment in landscaping, underground utilities sectors and more. The launch included two electric mini excavators, a dieselpowered mini and other models that will be released in 2024. The CX15EV is a 3,186-pound mini excavator powered by a 21-hp/16-kW electric motor, and the CX25EV is a 4,828-pound mini excavator running with a 27-hp/20-kW electric motor. The lithium-ion battery featured in both machines is charged

by the 110V/220V on-board charger, or an external rapid charger that can have the machine charged typically within 90 minutes. Depending on the work, the two models will operate for eight hours per charge.

“Mini excavators are ideal for electrification because they go through varied work cycles throughout the day,” said Brad Mace, product manager, CASE Construction Equipment. “Between access to power and the fast-charging capabilities of the machine with both on-board and external technologies, these machines deliver excellent runtimes and are sure to be ready to take on any task.”

The cab includes a standard, color LCD monitor that shows battery information, machine settings and work modes.

It also features an electronic pattern changer (to switch between ISO and SAE patterns), customizable hydraulic proportional controls and auxiliary hydraulics to let the operator dial the machine to their preferences.

Both machines feature standard one-way/two-way hydraulics with an electronic detent hold to reduce operator fatigue, and an optional, second auxiliary circuit (two-way only) can be added for more hydraulic options. The new LCD monitor allows flow settings to be set and stored for up to five attachments for convenience and confidence when switching between attachments. An optional quick coupler simplifies switching attachments. CASE’s SiteWatch telematics is standard for visibility into machine performance and greater collaborative fleet management with the local CASE dealer.

Hitachi also launched new compact excavators earlier this year, including the ZX75US-7 and ZX85USB-7. An ultra-short-tail swing radius on the ZX75US-7 allows access to confined spaces while an ultra-short-tail swing radius with swing boom model ZX85USB-7 digs next to walls and guard rails. Power is provided by turbocharged Yanmar diesel engines. A power mode provides higher engine speeds when extra horsepower is needed. The economy mode reduces engine speed when performing normal work. This results in low noise and decreased fuel consumption.

Compact excavators are commonly used with a wide range of attachments. An optional attachment replacement support system simplifies swapping work tools. Attachment flow settings can be adjusted from the monitor and the operator can name and store up to 12 settings. An auxiliary function lever is available with an analog switch, trigger switch and horn for running attachments such as a breaker or an attachment with swing.

Cab space has been improved from past models. There is more head clearance when opening the front

window. A low cabin floor height facilitates access to the machine.

The Aerial Angle peripheral vision camera system provides a wide 270-degree bird’s-eye view of the machine’s immediate environment. The operator can select from five views on the monitor, and a camera allows the operator to see the area right below the counterweight.

Routine checks, such as engine oil level, are accomplished from ground level and all service points are within reach through the access panels. ConSite telematics remotely monitors operational status and alerts owners and operators to upcoming maintenance needs.

A new optional feature, ConSite OIL, monitors engine and

 An ultra-short-tail swing radius on the ZX75US-7 allows access to confined spaces. An ultrashort-tail swing radius with swing boom model ZX85USB-7 digs next to walls and guard rails.

20 EQUIPMENT TODAY | September 2023 www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment EARTHMOVING TRENDS | By Gigi Wood, Managing Editor, ForConstructionPros.com

hydraulic oil conditions to detect issues before fault codes are triggered in the machine.

Yanmar recently launched its ViO17-1E and ViO25-6B mini excavators. The ViO17-1E is designed for residential work, landscaping and small general construction projects. The ViO25-6B can also be used in those applications but brings additional power and size for building maintenance projects, irrigation, plumbing pipeline and more.

“Operators will appreciate the upgraded features in these new generation models,” said Jeff Pate, director of sales at Yanmar Compact Equipment North America. “From improved operator comfort and lighting to enhanced attachment coupling, the improvements make long days in the cab a little easier.”

The ViO17-1E offers a 4,023-pound operating weight and 14.5-horsepower engine while the ViO25-6B features a 5,908-pound operating weight and 20.4-hp engine. These vehicles feature dig depths of 7 feet, 7 inches for the ViO17-1E and 10 feet for the ViO25-6B.

Yanmar builds the ViO17-1E and ViO25-6B with true zero tail swing technology for workplace performance. Zero tail swing models are designed so that no part of the cab or canopy extends beyond the track width.

The ViO25-6B includes SmartAssist Remote, Yanmar’s telematics system. Using the integrated theft protection, the mini excavator’s owner can set a range from a specific location or a starting time, triggering SmartAssist Remote to send a notification if that range is exceeded. SmartAssist Remote can also detect errors with electronic components and send notifications to service personnel and directly to Yanmar for diagnostics.

Additionally, the machine’s owner can view the operational status of the equipment in real time and see daily work reports that track use.

Finally, SmartAssist Remote can track maintenance intervals and inspection items, as well as notify the owner via email about upcoming maintenance requirements.

How to Get the Best ROI on Equipment

Mini excavators’ compact size and versatility make them a popular choice for the construction industry. There are a large variety of attachments available allowing them to tackle almost any task on the jobsite. Although choosing from so many different models and configurations can be a challenge, one of the biggest decisions contractors may face is whether to rent or buy the mini excavator.

On average, about 25% of contractors choose to rent their mini excavators, while 75% choose to

buy. Some businesses get the best of both worlds by purchasing the mini excavator size class they use most and renting additional machines during busy seasons to supplement their fleet. While there are benefits to both renting and buying, there are details to be aware of to determine which option will offer the greatest return on investment (ROI).

When Renting May be Best

An operator may choose to rent a mini excavator instead of buying it for several reasons. With a relatively low upfront cost and flexibility to return the equipment at any time, contractors can reap many of the benefits that come with owning a mini excavator. Whether to save money during a slow economic period or to increase productivity on a quick-turn project, certain conditions warrant a strong rental consideration.

It’s a Short-Term Task

Assess the usage needs before deciding to buy or rent a mini excavator. If this is a short-term task and the machine won’t have many uses afterward, renting can be a better choice.

To better understand what qualifies as a short-term task, estimate the machine’s annual hour usage and the amount of revenue that it would generate. Is that significantly less than the cost of the mini excavator? If so, renting may be the best option.

Money Is Tight

Buying any capital equipment requires a substantial financial investment, so opting to rent provides an economical alternative for those looking to save on upfront costs. Depending on the amount of time the equipment will be used, the cost of renting a mini excavator can be significantly less than the purchase cost, which can translate into thousands of dollars of savings. Renting a mini excavator also means there’s no need to worry about insurance costs, interest allocation or the sales tax that comes with purchasing a mini excavator.

You’re Looking for Less Commitment

The beauty of renting is that operators aren’t chained to one machine. No long-term commitment is involved. This way, contractors can change out machines based on the projects that arise or new configurations introduced to the market instead of finding attachments for their existing fleet or purchasing additional equipment.

Maintenance is a Pain Point

When renting a mini excavator, most if not all, maintenance and service requirements typically fall under the responsibility of the rental center. This means contractors can focus on the job without worrying about scheduled downtime for servicing.

Renting can also be a benefit if unforeseen challenges arise with the

machine where repairs are needed. Instead, contractors can simply return the unit and obtain a comparable replacement.

When Buying a Mini Excavator May be Best

Although renting a mini excavator involves less time, upfront costs and maintenance, purchasing a mini excavator as a long-term investment is sometimes the better option. With benefits such as having full control over when the machine is used and maximizing ROI with different attachments, buying a mini excavator can be an excellent strategic move for a business. This is especially true in market conditions with high economic growth. Here are some indicators buying a mini excavator is the best choice for you.

Future Utilization Opportunities

Similar to determining if renting is best, it’s important to look at the big picture when considering buying compact equipment. Buying often comes with financing payment cycles that can last several years so looking ahead at future utilization opportunities is critical to determining return on investment.

For example, if the monthly bill for the equipment is $1,200 and you’ll be working enough billable hours to cover that or more each month, buying is likely the best long-term choice.

22 EQUIPMENT TODAY | September 2023 www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment EARTHMOVING TRENDS

Just as it’s important to examine factors such as market conditions when determining whether to rent or buy a mini excavator, it’s also helpful to have a good understanding of inventory.

 With the versatility that mini excavators provide when paired with different attachments, the equipment can easily be used in multiple applications, which means the benefits of owning one are even greater for businesses that do it all.

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More Flexibility with Scheduling

Contractors that work in different industries, such as utility work, residential and commercial construction, roadwork, and municipality projects, should consider buying a mini excavator instead of renting. With the versatility mini excavators provide when paired with different attachments, the equipment can easily be used in multiple applications. This means the benefits of owning one are even greater for businesses that do it all. Purchasing also means the machine is available 24/7 whenever the contractor needs.

With renting, the rental company may not have the right machine available when it’s needed. However, those who own their equipment can have peace of mind knowing they are ready to go when the work comes in.

Consistently Renting the Same Size Machine

If renting a mini excavator originally seemed like the best solution but you now find yourself going back to the rental center to use the same machine time and time again, it may be time to buy.

Those who rent the same size machine multiple times each year fall into this category. Contractors who find themselves using their mini excavator rentals longer than expected instead of switching it out for different equipment with each new job may also be a candidate for purchasing.

Additionally, purchasing a mini excavator gives contractors the option to sell the machine and make money if they find they no longer need it.

The Dealer Offers Rental Purchase Options

For contractors who know buying a mini excavator is in their future but can’t get financing upfront or don’t know which model to buy, rent-to-buy programs can be an ideal solution. These programs allow contractors to start using the equipment right away and rent until they get approved for a loan or find the right model that they want to invest in.

The Equipment has Reputation for Quality

Investing in high-quality, new equipment often brings the added convenience of two to three years of minimal maintenance. Along those lines, if the new machine comes with a better-than-average warranty, that’s a sign that the manufacturer believes in the quality of their equipment and it’s likely worth the investment.

Some manufacturers offer warranties for new machines as long as four years/4,000 hours—double that of many other manufacturers.

Telematic Programs are Offered with Purchase

One of the newer benefits to buying a mini excavator are telematics

programs. Some manufacturers will offer the technology free for a limited time with purchase.

Telematics can help owners stay on top of service tasks by tracking maintenance intervals and inspection items. They also detect errors on the machine and send information directly to service personnel to streamline the diagnostic process.

Additionally, telematics systems can include integrated theft protection, real-time operational status of the machine and other helpful data that can improve jobsite productivity.

Just as examining factors such as market conditions when determining whether to rent or buy a mini excavator is important, having a good understanding of inventory is another critical piece of information.

Supply chain issues can have a negative impact on availability. This can influence the purchasing decision based on what is currently available from the manufacturer.

It’s worth reaching out to trusted dealers to discuss options or to learn about different rental and purchasing options. Contractors should also look into the manufacturer and learn about its reputation.

Are they known for reliable equipment and warranties that back their promises? That’s a sign that their equipment is worth the commitment— whether for rental opportunities or investing in ownership.

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8 ELEMENTS OF ADCM & the Future of Technology on the Jobsite

contractors must develop a solid plan for the project to achieve success.

The latest data from The Civil Quarterly from Dodge Construction Network reveals uncertainty, including concerns over the unending labor shortages and increased regulations.

To conquer these impediments, contractors need unprecedented visibility into every aspect of their projects. They require real-time data to make informed decisions, ensure profitability and prevent costly overruns.

Data Is Vital to Accurate Estimates

Whether drones, reality capture or machine control, there’s little debate about technology’s role in the modern jobsite in enabling efficiencies in time, materials and resources. But it’s not just the fact that technology exists that is changing the jobsite. The revolution is how construction professionals use it to reimagine the jobsite and maintain their level of productivity amid an increasingly unstable climate.

As technology permeates the conversation, we need to make sure we are focused on technology’s larger role: Ensuring that a job is completed safely, on time and on budget.

Before beginning construction work,

Before turning dirt, contractors must estimate the full project, so they can accurately allocate financial and human resources. While estimates are the bane of many organizations, they are a critical part of every project and serve as a baseline to compare construction project activity, akin to a scoreboard, to ensure that the project stays on track.

Adopting advanced digital construction management (ADCM) technologies can help minimize a project’s risks and increase the transparency of progress. Empowering teams with ADCM boosts productivity, manages the complex modern jobsite, enhances safety, and reduces project delays and overruns. Given

its potential to revolutionize the jobsite, Congress included ADCM in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to push technology adoption throughout the construction lifecycle.

Eight core elements are involved in ADCM technology:

˜ Design

˜ Revisions and change requests

˜ Backup

˜ Terrain

˜ Resources

˜ Data management

˜ As-built information

˜ Team preparation ADCM requires a tailored approach for each unique project. However, certain fundamental components establish the most efficient methods and can be applied across numerous worksites. Unfortunately, preparation— from personnel to materials to valuable resources—is not always straightforward. A shortage of skilled workers, rising expenses, and reduced profits contribute to the challenges of completing tasks on time and on budget.

Element 1: Understand the Landscape Contractors must have a thorough understanding of the complexities of the location before

28 EQUIPMENT TODAY | September 2023 www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment EARTHMOVING TRENDS

Site prep best practices: What works today, what contractors need to let go of and where the industry should be headed.

 Contractors require real-time data to make informed decisions, ensure profitability and prevent costly overruns. Leica Geosystems

bringing equipment onto the jobsite. Incomplete or inaccurate information can lead to incorrect decision-making and project failure, which can be costly. To avoid such consequences and ensure accurate bids, create a digital twin, capturing and validating existing conditions.

Element 2: Prepare for Inevitable Changes

Revisions are common and unavoidable on any job. However, contractors must be prepared to handle them efficiently. With the help of technology, supervisors can stay connected 24/7 without being physically present at the jobsite. This enables them to make timely decisions and communicate updated plans and information to all relevant stakeholders.

Element 3: Securely Backup All Critical Data

Keeping data secure is as important as the project plans. Given the increased cyber threats targeting all businesses, no one is safe from bad actors. Cloudenabled data recovery allows teams to back up project plans, user guides and spare components to complex methods, ensuring that the work continues uninterrupted, even in a worst-case scenario.

Element 4: Understand the Terrain Jobsites with hard-to-access areas and other challenges, such as no internet

access or global navigation satellite system (GNSS) availability, pose a potentially significant problem. The key is to avoid and prepare for those challenges before they become timeconsuming and costly.

Digital terrain modeling, 3D machine control, laser scanning, robotic total stations, advanced GNSS rovers and underground detection solutions are some technologies that help teams work quicker and safer.

Element 5: Safeguard Resources to Control Costs

Contractors face significant financial challenges because of rising material costs, inflation, and a labor shortage. Unexpected cost increases leave contractors with

limited flexibility. Fortunately, userfriendly software solutions help contractors speed up their estimates and guarantee accuracy. Additionally, these solutions allow contractors to monitor construction material usage throughout the project.

Element 6: Data Management

Data is an essential and potent tool on the modern jobsite. It can drive decision-making, boost productivity, prioritize worker safety and effectively conserve resources.

Having a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of a project is one of the greatest advantages of using technology on the jobsite. Nevertheless, for organizations to harness the full benefits of this knowledge, it is crucial to maintain it in an easily accessible format that can guide their operations.

Element 7: Capture As-Built Information

Before breaking ground, establishing milestones to track throughout the project is important. Before the widespread use of technology, collecting and reporting data was cumbersome.

However, digital as-builts have endless potential to enhance safety throughout the project and save time and money by ensuring that projects are built according to the specifications.

Element 8: Ensure Team Preparation

Combatting the ongoing labor shortage requires attracting younger workers and upskilling current ones. Both will complement the move toward a technology-centric jobsite. The use of digital technology extends an asset’s lifespan.

Real-time capture technology can document an asset during construction to create a digital twin, which facility operators can use as a baseline for predictive maintenance.

Technology Is the Path Forward

Often the most important investment isn’t a piece of equipment or technology. Instead, people are the

most significant investment and what truly powers an organization.

Prioritizing the well-being and safety of employees is an absolute must for companies, particularly as younger generations take on leadership roles in industries like civil and structural engineering. Success hinges on adapting to their distinctive relationship with technology. Deploying safety-focused solutions is essential to prevent costly errors and save money over the long haul.

While many organizations fall back to traditional methods—or “the way it’s always been done”—contractors must consider innovative solutions to improve safety on jobsites. The world is changing rapidly, and the jobsite needs to change accordingly.

Embracing technology will create a safer environment for all involved while speeding up workflow and avoiding costly mistakes.

Dodge Data & Analytics research found that “increasing sophistication in data collection and gathering [helps] improve productivity, safety and profitability,” including 56% who said it improved bid estimation, and 51% said it improved budget performance.

Technology is about preparing the team for challenges and ensuring that the project’s momentum continues in the right direction. Efficiency is critical to success, and keeping all project stakeholders aligned at every step is key. Considering this, do you have the technology solutions your project needs?

WINCH OPTIMIZATION on New Fire Dozer Packages

The sustained, yearround efforts of wildland firefighters save countless acres of timber; billions of dollars in property damage; and, most importantly, human lives. The U.S. has recorded 1.5 million wildfires since 2000, including 237 fires that burned more than 100,000 acres and 15 fires that destroyed more than 500,000 acres. Coast to coast, workers and equipment tasked with battling these blazes operate close to extreme field conditions. Getting the job done safely, effectively and quickly requires the right tools, training and experience.

Properly equipped, crawler dozers play a huge role in supporting the nation’s fire control and management capabilities. Manufacturers with their finger on the pulse of earthmoving and material handling equipment in forestry settings are leveraging their experiences and technologies.

Solutions are being mapped out by engineering teams to suit virtually any fire department’s playbook, operating

situation or terrain-dependent need. More dozers are being outfitted in a factory setting to meet the growing requirements of fire agencies. These technology additions are also used by forestry services and municipalities.

 New fire dozer packages for the Cat D5 were developed based on conversations with agencies like the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, the Georgia Forestry Commission and CAL FIRE.

affected annually, while also variable, has increased.

Federal statistics reveal that more wildfires occur in the East and Central states, but wildfires in the West are larger and burn more acreage.

Most wildfires are human-caused or the result of lightning, with the latter blamed for destroying slightly more acres.

In 2020, U.S. wildfires were estimated to have caused $16.5 billion in property damage. That number was $22 billion in 2018 and $24 billion in 2017. Impacts on forests or soil, wildlife or other ecological effects must also be considered. It is difficult to place any realistic measure on people being displaced from their homes, serious injuries and tragic loss of life.

include steep gradients, mountainous or rocky areas, dry and arid regions, places with sandy soils, swampland areas, and mud bogs. Even overgrown vegetation can catch fire.

Working near hazardous fire situations provides little room for error and requires a solid defensive strategy. Cab performance and added protection are emphasized in new fire dozer arrangements, including shielding on the tractor’s belly pan and the wrapping of hydraulic and electrical lines in fire-resistant material.

US Wildfire Statistics

Data compiled by the National Interagency Coordination Center show that the number of annual U.S. wildfires is variable, dropping slightly during the past 30 years. During that same period, the number of acres

According to Federal data, only a small fraction of wildfires become catastrophic, and a small percentage of fires account for the most acres burned. Weather, climate and geography can impact how crews approach the suppression of wildfires and mitigate their potential to grow into a more destructive force.

A Proactive Defense

Facing inhospitable conditions is a norm for firefighters dealing with different obstacles and terrains. These

Dozers are being outfitted with guarded lighting, an oil-level sight glass, fuel-shut off in the cab, onboard fire suppression, and pressurized cab systems with HEPA filtration to keep leftover smoke and burnt ash out of the driver’s lungs.

In addition, Caterpillar (the dozer’s manufacturer) incorporates:

˜ Cab screens and sweeps

˜ Brush guard blades equipped with steel cables

˜ Ladders for easier access

˜ Front and rear tie downs

˜ Tow points

These additions help protect operators and maximize performance under challenging conditions.

CAL FIRE

30 EQUIPMENT TODAY | September 2023 www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment EARTHMOVING TRENDS

Feedback from agencies helped inform the engineering of new fire dozer packages for the Caterpillar D5 and its predecessor, the D6N.

CAL FIRE

 The water tank is compatible with the winch attached and is tucked in the back of the machine so operators can still use the rear attachment as normal.

Better Lifelines

Fire dozer operators are called on for best all-about performances. They must demonstrate the capacity to work safely and sustain a high degree of focused intensity in the face of approaching danger.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is an emergency response and resource protection department with an emphasis on preserving timberlands, wetlands, wildlands and urban forests. It is the in-state fire department of the California Natural Resources Agency.

CAL FIRE operators undergo intensive training, including heavy wrecker instruction and training on the advanced recovery of different equipment types using winches and snatch blocks. Maintaining acute awareness of their surroundings, operators must form an extraordinary grip on boundaries—a deep knowledge of both limitations and capabilities.

The most experienced operators tend to focus on mitigating circumstances that could lead a fire team down the wrong rabbit holes, said Shawn Entz, CAL FIRE, a veteran fire dozer operator who transitioned to his current role in 2000. As examples, a dozer can get caught in a precarious situation if it gets high centered on rocks or slides down into a compromised area.

“We operate year-round, out in the forests, getting yourself or another dozer or vehicle unstuck, even skidding logs in winter with other dozers following close behind,” Entz said. “Tree trunks, stumps, they will roll right up underneath you. A dozer gets stuck, or a fire engine rolls down a hill. These are all possibilities, contingencies we must stay prepared for.”

In 7 years as an operator with CAL FIRE, only once was Entz stuck to a point where he had to “winch himself out.” That’s the exact moment when the reliable equipment operators can depend on becomes less of a tool and more of a lifeline.

“We have very defined limitations in a winching environment,” Entz said. “Whatever is stuck, you can’t just hook up. There are math equations involved with removing obstacles. It requires a lot of expertise to know your limits and capabilities and keep operating.

“But you never want to be stuck there, caught in that scenario during an active firefighting situation.”

Key Attachments

Fire suppression dozers started as an outgrowth of the forestry industry.

“Dozers used for logging typically have winches with a faster line speed,” said Dave Tallon, Caterpillar. “Soon, these machines started getting pulled into the fire suppression side. Through their development

of the system, Cat and [the winch manufacturer] realized what operators needed was more precise control, to get unstuck or out of a situation.”

The Cat D5 crawler dozer succeeded the D6N, offering superior performance. This improved performance includes a fully automatic transmission and more technological features. It was designed

to supply power for dozing and finesse for grading.

New fire dozer packages for the Cat D5 were developed based on conversations with agencies like the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, the Georgia Forestry Commission and CAL FIRE. Tallon said the goal from the beginning has

been to bring a fully equipped fire dozer with the packages and options they seek to market.

Right Fit, Optimized Function

With 27% more visibility in front and more traction and balance on steep slopes, mobility and maneuverability have been improved on the D5, alongside overall towing performance.

EARTHMOVING TRENDS

The collaborations among Cat, the winch manufacturer and their customers have ensured proper fit and function of major fire dozer package components in relation to the D5’s dual heat insulated winch/ripper assembly.

Gear ratio options for the winch configurations have been paired with Cat’s systems and aligned with CAL FIRE’s program to optimize an enhanced level of control.

“The winch is one of the key rear attachments,” Tallon said. “We do a fair amount of tuning and validation to make sure it performs as we expect before we send it out. [The winch manufacturer’s] engineers are involved during the development phase, long before the dozer goes into production.”

The winch is a mechanical power take off winch with electric controls. It has a 10-inch diameter drum. The maximum line pull—through all layers of cable with the slow speed configuration—is 69,200 pounds. At full drum, the maximum line speed on the slow-speed winch is 91 feet/minute (28 meters/minute).

Cable control on the winch was designed for hydraulically actuated multiple disc clutches and brakes. A freespool with drag adjustment allows an operator to easily pull wire rope from the drum by hand, permitting fast, one-person operation. Winch fairlead rollers help preserve the wire and spool it more evenly. Equal speed gearing in forward and reverse and a drive-away function provides smooth and predictable performance.

“We recommended the new lowspeed winches as opposed to the faster

speed, also tuning the clutch and making brake modifications,” Tallon said. “These are electrohydraulic controls with control modules and programming, a transmission with electronic, programmable logic integrated into the tractor. Not just a chunk of iron that sits on the back and goes in and out. It gives you a sense of sophistication. There are intelligent, fly-by-wire controls for these compact fire winches.”

Entz noted that policy dictates how steep dozers can be operated on the

edge of an envelope. “For our program specifications, I have to be able to keep the tractor in gear and drive at the same time,” he said. “We can power and winch simultaneously. It’s set up so that the brake and winch can be reset, so we can respool the winch and drive away.”

“You can let the line off in a controlled manner without towing,” Tallon continued. “This drive-away feature allows them to begin driving somewhere and start pulling, to get in a better safety position—a very

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useful feature. Now, when the winch is engaged, it is easier on the equipment, less wear and tear on the machine.”

A Steady Climb

According to Caterpillar, integrated equipment such as rippers, sidebooms and winches can cause the tractor to balance differently. Safe operation on steep slopes may require special machine maintenance, as well as excellent operator skill and proper equipment for the specific application.

CAL FIRE approached equipment dealer Peterson Cat in Santa Rosa to inquire about extending the rear undercarriage of a D6N fire dozer by more than a foot. With the winch installed, the Peterson team felt as if greater stability could be useful to hold the track more firmly on the ground when climbing on steeper slopes.

32 EQUIPMENT TODAY | September 2023 EARTHMOVING TRENDS

CAL FIRE

 Dozers used in firefighting are being outfitted with guarded lighting, an oil-level sight glass, fuel-shut off in the cab, onboard fire suppression, and pressurized cab systems with HEPA filtration to keep leftover smoke and burnt ash out of the driver’s lungs.

CAL FIRE

 The track frame was reinforced and extended by approximately 16 inches for better stability.

Tallon said that operators under typical circumstances would be encouraged to let gravity help do the work when climbing downhill. Fire dozers, on the other hand, may have to climb uphill or down for an extended distance, whatever the situation is.

Chris Glavich, forestry manager, CAL FIRE, said they worked with Peterson Cat and Holt of California to pioneer the process of reinforcing and extending the track frame by approximately 16 inches. All the agency’s existing D6N dozers have been retrofitted or scheduled for it.

With the rear idler pushed rearward 12.6 inches (320 millimeters) on a standard gauge U/C, stability, traction and flotation are enhanced on steep slopes and loose material. The improvement—creating a more stabilized experience when climbing— has been made permanent by Cat for all new fire-ready D5s being rolled out at the factory.

Glavich said that the original results were demonstrated by CAL FIRE at Camp Roberts, an equipment proving ground near San Luis Obispo. Operating on steep terrain—up to a 2:1 slope—allowed them to make performance comparisons among different machines.

“It required a lot of R&D on our part,” he said. “Our original pilot was with Peterson to see if we could add an extra roller and extend the track to help keep the front end down while climbing uphill.

“Holt of California fit the machines

we purchased from them. We took a snapshot (at Camp Roberts) of the dozers with extensions. The (extended track) D6N climbed best, walked away from all of them.”

 In 7 years as an operator with CAL FIRE, only once was Entz stuck to a point where he had to “winch himself out.” That’s the exact moment when the reliable equipment operators can depend on becomes less of a tool and more of a lifeline.

Winch Compatibility

Additional concepts, including increased guarding thickness around the water systems used for dousing spot fires and the window of fire retardant dropped from aircraft, have also been converted into reality for D5 fire dozer arrangement options.

“The winch can be used as a recovery device, to get another dozer unstuck, recover other dozers, get yourself unstuck,” Tallon said. “We designed the water tank in a way that it is compatible with the winch attached. It’s tucked in the back of the machine so you can still use your rear attachment like you normally would.

“All Cat’s fire dozer arrangements have cut some of the work the customer has to do to get that level of compatibility. All that work has been done in the factory. We took the voice of the customer and improved on what we had.”

All information collected by Cat from CAL FIRE and the other fire agencies from different parts of the country was taken in by Cat engineers in Peoria, Illinois and Grenoble, France, with engineers from the winch manufacturer invited on board.

Rolling Out

In 2021, more than 23,000 wildfires burned approximately 6.2 million acres in the West, compared with the over 35,000 fires that burned just less than 1 million acres in the East. Nationwide, there were 999 large or significant wildfires in 2020, but even more—1,409—in 2017. Federal firefighting suppression costs broke a record in 2021, bringing that 5-year average to more than $2.8 billion.

According to Glavich, “The [winch] has gone on all D6N dozers since 2008, and now the current-generation D5s. We want the same controls for our dozer machines so our operators can be as familiar as possible to support a consistent training platform. That’s where we’re headed.”

“This is a great example of dealer support, and Cat’s and [the winch manufacturer’s] ultimate investment of picking up improvements, making them standard for machines at the factory-built level,” Tallon continued. “We work together on resolving any issues that may arise to keep the testing moving forward. This allows for faster development and our ability to scale production with zero sacrifice of quality standards.”

Read more at: https://eqtoday.co/paccar0923

Todd Razor is a writer for PACCAR Winch.

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CAL FIRE

Hitachi ZX670LC-6 & ZX870LC-6 Excavators

The upgraded 463-hp ZX670LC-6 and 512-hp ZX870LC-6 are powered by fuel-efficient Isuzu engines that meet Tier 4 Final without the need for a diesel particulate filter and deliver generous swing torque, digging force and lifting capacity. The units feature 154,103-lb. and 188,716-lb. operating weights, bucket force of 72,838 lbs. and 89,699 lbs. (ISO) and dig depths of 30 ft. and 31 ft. 5 in. A cooling system expansion tank enhances air pursing, provides make-up fluid when needed and improves overall cooling efficiency. Battery disconnect switch, spin-on fuel filters, two additional water separators, engine and hydraulic oil sample ports, and an improved step position on the upper structure track frame and walkways provide simplified maintenance.

Caterpillar 340 Excavator

The new Cat 340 Hydraulic Excavator features a more powerful engine, wider track and 7.5ton counterweight to increase productivity by 10% over the 2020 model year Cat 336. Power mode delivers power to meet demanding tasks; Smart mode automatically matches engine and hydraulic power to digging conditions to lower fuel consumption. Reducing engine speed to a constant 1,500 rpm, Eco mode minimizes fuel consumption. Synchronized 1,000-hour oil and fuel filter service intervals reduce downtime. The extended intervals also eliminate labor cost for nine oil and fuel filter changes and parts cost for 27 oil and fuel filters over 10,000 machine operating hours compared to many 30-ton to 40-ton excavators.

Sunward Full-size Excavator Line

Sunward’s largest excavator models include the 15.6-ton SWE155F, the 24-ton SWE215F and 38-ton SWE365F.

• 121-hp SWE155F features a Cummins Tier

4 Final engine, Japanese-made hydraulic system that enables a 22,480-lb. max bucket breakout and a durable design

• 173-hp SWE215F powered by a Cummins engine that enables it to generate over 34,800 lbs. of digging force.

• 338-hp SWE365F features a dig depth of 24 ft., 6 in. and max bucket digging force of 56,202 lb.-ft.

Takeuchi TB2150R Excavator

The new TB2150R 15-ton model is one of Takeuchi’s largest excavators, second only to the TB2150. The primary difference between the TB2150R and the TB2150 unit is the TB2150R’s fixed boom arrangement and reduced tail-swing design.

The TB2150R has an operating weight of 34,215 lbs. (rubber track), a maximum bucket breakout force of 22,256 lbs. and a maximum arm digging force of 13,490 lbs. It is powered by a 114-hp DEUTZ TCD3.6L4 turbocharged engine that delivers 338 ft.-.lbs. of torque and features a DOC+SCR diesel exhaust aftertreatment system.

Hyundai HX140L Excavator

The HX140L excavator is a 14-metric-ton (14,200-kg / 31,310-lb.) model, powered by a Perkins 1204F Tier 4 Final engine rated at 116 hp (87 kW). Maximum dig depth of 22 ft., 1 in. (6,730 mm) and maximum digging reach of 32 ft., 9 in. (9,980 mm). It has a bucket digging force of 24,890 lb.-ft. (11 290 kg-ft.). It is equipped with a standard 0.76-yd3 (0.58-m3) capacity, 39.4-in.-wide (1,000-mm) bucket. Standard equipment includes an 8-in. (20.3-cm) interactive, adjustable, touchscreen cluster-monitor in the cab. Haptic remote control provides easier operator accessibility.

SANY SY365C Hydraulic Excavator

The 80,910-lb. SY365C hydraulic excavator features a 275-hp Cummins QSL 9 Tier 4 Final engine with a highly engineered hydraulic system to match engine response. Achieves a dig depth of 23 ft., 11 in. with a bucket breakout force of 43,163 lb.-ft.

Four working modes allow setup for the job and application. X-beam design uses a high-strength, box-section structure for optimal durability and torsion-resistant performance. The in-cab color monitor provides intuitive, quick communication of key operating parameters.

Wacker Neuson ET145 Excavator

The 32,886-lb. ET145 features a 73.8-hp, Tier 4 Final turbocharged engine and optimized powertrain that uses a constant power concept to deliver maximum horsepower and torque, regardless of the load with a 127-degree boom swing.

It provides a breakout force of nearly 20,500 lbs. and a digging depth of 18 ft. Highperformance hydraulics enable spontaneous actuation of the hydraulic functions and maximum working speed. The ergonomic cab design includes intuitive, easy-to-reach controls, a 7-in. high-resolution color display, and a backup camera.

Yanmar ViO80-1A and SV100-2A

The ViO80 features Yanmar’s zero tail swing, and the SV100 includes an ultra-tight tailswing. The ViO80’s zero tail-swing design allows the excavator to rotate next to a structure with less risk of hitting it. The larger SV100’s ultra-tight tail swing has 6.7 in. of overhang. Both designs allow work in tight jobsites, as found in residential construction or road and utility work.

The 8-ton-class ViO80 weighs in at 18,136 lbs. with 56.9 hp and a maximum digging depth of 15 ft., 4 in., while the 10-ton class SV100 has a 21,550-lb. operating weight while providing 72 hp and a maximum digging depth of 15 ft., 9 in.

Komatsu Machine Control 2.0

To offer contractors automation on a larger excavator, Komatsu introduced its intelligent Machine Control 2.0 (iMC 2.0) on the PC490LCi-11 excavator. Designed for excavation, trenching, slope work and fine grading on construction sites, the 359-hp PC490LCi-11 is Komatsu’s largest intelligent excavator. The PC490LCi-11 helps minimize over-excavation. Built on Komatsu’s intelligent machine control platform and developed with input from construction companies, iMC 2.0 offers additional new features, including an upgraded monitor and bucket angle hold control.

34 EQUIPMENT TODAY | September 2023 www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment EARTHMOVING Products

Read More at eqtoday.co/earthmovingtrends

Gradall Discovery Series Excavators

The Discovery Series D172 and D174 have 300-hp Cummins 6.7L engines offering greater torque to increase travel speed, hill-climbing capability and productivity. The D172 features a two-wheel-drive Freightliner undercarriage and the D174 has a four-wheel-drive version. It has travel speeds of up to 60 mph.

A telescoping, full-tilting boom provides a 25-ft. reach, can rotate attachments 220 degrees and has a lowprofile design for work under bridges and in tunnels. The roomy upper structure has all-electric joystick controls, heating and air conditioning.

Volvo

EC500 Crawler Excavator

Link-Belt 355 X4S Excavator

The 78,709-lb. Link-Belt 355 X4S minimum swing radius excavator has a maximum digging depth of 22 ft., 10 in.; maximum reach at ground level of 34 ft., 8 in.; and a bucket digging force of 39,340 lb.-ft. An Isuzu AQ-6HK1X 6-cylinder, Tier 4 engine produces 205 net hp at 1,800 rpm. Four work modes offer varying levels of selectable rpm settings. The new Eco mode maximizes fuel economy and the new Lifting mode ensures that the power boost is always on during lower rpm crane tasks. The full-size cab offers more room and comfort, a high-back air suspension seat, improved cab layout, and a 10-in. LCD monitor.

Volvo CE’s EC500 excavator is a new 50-ton crawler excavator for tough applications. It’s a partner for the Volvo A25G to A35G hauler and a successor to the Volvo EC480E. A notable change can be seen in the cabin design and styling, with new layout and features including a high-definition copilot screen, keyless engine start, wired and wireless smart phone charging, and new work mode switch. This next generation excavator is set up to access a range of machine options to help operators complete their tasks. These include the operator coaching app, Volvo Dig Assist—designed to eliminate the need to manually mark out a site—and Volvo Lift Assist, all accessed via the copilot screen in the cab.

JCB 131X & 150X Tracked Excavators

The 131X tracked excavator is equipped with the 74-hp JCB EcoMAX engine that requires no replaceable diesel particulate filter (DPF) or diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), while the 150X has a 109-hp EcoMAX engine that requires no replaceable DPF.

A larger Kawasaki hydraulic pump on the 150X can run at lower engine speeds for more productivity per gallon of fuel, with larger bucket cylinder delivering an 11% increase in bucket tearout force. Breakout force on the 131X increased to 22,931 lb.-ft.

Case CX750D Excavator

The CX750D excavator is the largest and most powerful machine in the Case excavator lineup with 512 hp and available in standard and mass excavation configurations. The mass excavation configuration (CX750D ME) features a shorter boom and arm for greater breakout forces and faster cycle times. It can handle larger buckets for added capacity. The excavator includes an electronically controlled hydraulic pump and larger control and solenoid valves boost breakout forces, increase lifting strength and improve responsiveness. Digging force with Power boost is 75,090 lbs.

KOBELCO SK230 and SK270 -7 Series Excavators

KOBELCO launched the SK230SRLC-7 and SK270SRLC-7 (57,000lb. to 61,000-lb.) models in North America. These KOBELCO excavators are mid-size machines that offer full-size capabilities with short rear-swing features. Both models have a compact design and long digging reach to provide maneuverability and a broad working range. With digging depths of 21 ft., 7 in. and 21 ft.,10 in. as well as supporting swing speeds, the SK230 and SK270 deliver continuous operation and short cycle times. This machine has an ISO digging force of 29,700 lbs. and maximum digging reach of 31 ft.,10 in. It also features an ISO digging force of 35,300 lbs. and a maximum digging reach of 32 ft., 4 in. to achieve increased work volume.

Liebherr R 938

Crawler Excavator

The 85,770-lb. R 938 is powered by a 299hp Tier 4 Final diesel engine and has a 24-ft., 11-in. maximum dig depth, 36-ft., 8-in. maximum reach at ground level and up to 53,510 lbs. of breakout force. It is available with a variety of X-shaped, lubricated-for-life undercarriage types and track rollers. The temperaturecontrolled cab features pneumatic seats; a high-resolution, 7-in. touchscreen; and a windshield that can be fully lowered. The unobstructed panoramic cab view and rear -and side-monitoring cameras maximize safety. Engine oil, hydraulic oil, fuel and urea levels can be monitored via the touchscreen.

September 2023 | EQUIPMENT TODAY 35 EARTHMOVING Products

EQUIPMENT FOR UNDERGROUND UTILITY CONSTRUCTION

According to Common Ground Alliance’s Damage Information Reporting Tool (DIRT) , more than 217,000 utility damage events were reported in 2021. The primary causes of these events were digs that occurred without calling 811; a lack of maintenance, including pothole fills; and the inability to locate issues because of incorrect or outdated maps.

Contractors, particularly those who undertake digging, must be mindful of each hazard posed by utility strikes.

After all, damaging underground infrastructure can lead to more than just cut lines.

“That’s why the construction industry emphasizes the importance of calling 811 before digging begins so

that existing utilities can be located and marked,” said Jake Jeffords, director of sales, marketing and global accounts, Vermeer MV Solutions.

“Contractors should also verify digging locations themselves while using their own utility locator and potholing and daylighting all nearby utilities in their path. The construction industry’s preferred method for doing that is soft digging while utilizing vacuum excavators.”

Aside from these three primary causes of utility damage, contractors must remember another aspect of the hazards associated with underground utility construction and repair: the U.S.’s overall underground infrastructure has become increasingly complicated during the

past few decades. As a result, several networks of utilities—from electric and telecom cable to gas, sewer and water pipelines—constantly crisscross at different levels below the ground. Because of this congestion, whenever utility workers dig or bore into the ground, a utility strike or a cross bore may occur. Not to mention, underground interference may increase, too, thereby ensuring that proper locating is necessary on contractors’ jobsites, according to Chris Thompson, vacuum excavation product manager, Ditch Witch.

Furthermore, contractors must look out for falling rocks from walls and overhead as they conduct underground utility construction and repair tasks. Unwanted water may

Epiroc 36 EQUIPMENT TODAY | September 2023 www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment UNDERGROUND UTILITY EQUIPMENT

 By using Epiroc’s VC double drum model, which doesn’t have to move side by side, operators can dig different trenches, including those with flat bottoms.

Numerous equipment and technology offerings are enhancing underground utility construction employees’ productivity and safety long term.

also enter areas at times, while cracks may occur in rock floors. Finally, according to Tim Schutte, product and application specialist, Epiroc USA, contractors might encounter insufficient ventilation, too.

“To ensure contractors have air that’s as clear as possible, underground gases must be removed as soon as possible,” he said. “By overcoming these critical hazards, contractors will be able to safely work to the best of their abilities as they oversee underground utility construction and repair tasks.”

The bottom line is this: Hazards can—and will—vary considerably on underground jobsites. In turn, contractors never know exactly what they’ll find or, at times, exactly where the hazards are. As a result, according to Justin Steger, solutions marketing manager, John Deere, it’s crucial for locating services to mark any hazards they can find, whether it’s new construction or repair services.

“Contractors still have to be careful though, as locating services are never pinpoint accurate,” Steger emphasized. “Safety is a critical component of locating services’ offerings, especially when they’re as accurate as possible.”

He continued, “To ensure safety, particularly on repair jobsites, locating services can locate and mark existing utilities so that operators will know when they’re getting close to pipes or fiber [that] they’re either interested in repairing or trying to avoid, leading to a lower potential for injuries and a decline in downtime.”

Utility Locating Devices Assist Contractors

As the landscape of underground construction and utility inspection continually changes, digital documentation has become a vital tool for underground construction professionals. For example, more professionals are using the most recently released utility locating devices to automatically acquire data in real-time—and with centimetergrade accuracy—whether they’re conducting pre-drill planning or comprehensive post-drill reporting. And, according to Thompson, as the latest devices locate utilities, they can also map and label each one, thereby building a digital record that can be shared locally or on a cloud-based mapping service.

“While using a horizontal directional drill (HDD) guidance system, a drill operator, in particular, can download a bore plan and see it overlayed on their guidance display,” Thompson said. “This can help them stay on course, with regards to their plans, by monitoring critical waypoints as they drill.”

In addition, the system can log bore data in real-time. As a result, as drill operators are in the field,

they’re able to download data to their computers, smartphones and tablets, to review a profile of each of their drills before comparing each profile to their specific drilling plans.

“This data mapping technology is critical for the future of underground construction and utility inspection [because] it enables operators to streamline data sharing and

access shared information quickly,” Thompson added.

By using the latest utility locating devices on the market, alongside integrated data mapping, operators can mitigate damage on their jobsites more effectively than they have in the past. Additionally, since the most recent devices often have enhanced receivers, operators and their fellow

crew members can locate utilities with centimeter-grade accuracy. In turn, their overall planning processes become more efficient and simplified.

“And because all data is recorded and managed digitally, rather than manually, the risk of errors will decline too,” Thompson explained. “After all, when a bore or a dig is planned while using advanced data

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and digital mapping, crews will face fewer risks of human errors, as they’re more likely to safely navigate complex underground environments.”

As an example of utility locating device innovations, Vermeer recently introduced its Verifier G3+ utility locator, which offers contractors assistance as they verify utility locations. A new-generation locator, the Verifier G3+ provides accuracy, connectivity capabilities and intuitive controls. The locator can be paired with smartphones. While using the G3+ Map mobile app that’s available for Android and IOS, the Verifier G3+ helps contractors plot location information—ranging from the current index, depth and device name, to GPS

data to operators who have conducted job tasks and utility type.

“Due to the Verifier G3+’s data capturing ability, contractors and utility owners can capture and store information about construction projects,” Jeffords said. “And, in doing so, they can provide more information to their team members and customers than they previously could.”

Excavators, Backhoes & Technology Innovations

At the same time, Vermeer has also released a vacuum excavator, known as the VXT300. Featuring an 8-cubicyard spoil tank and a 6-inch dig tube, the excavator can carry up to 800 gallons of water, thereby helping crew members enhance their overall on-thejob productivity. Lightweight, one

effectively transport spoils from their jobsites to dumpsites.

“Developed for utility contractors that are working on projects in which several holes have to be dug, the midsized PTO vacuum excavator has been created for drilling crews that utilize large volumes of drilling fluid as well,” Jeffords said. “Of equal importance, it’s also a great fit for municipalities and contractors that are working on sites that only allow for soft digging methods, such as data centers and solar farms.”

For contractors that must conduct job tasks involving sewers or water, they’ll generally use backhoes instead. Or they may even prefer to use excavators, along with multiple attachments, to complete their tasks. To provide technology for backhoe users, John Deere Construction & Forestry recently released its G-Tier and P-Tier backhoes.

“Our 310 G-Tier, for example, is a rugged, reliable machine at a lower price point than some of our other offerings, as it has fewer options and features,” Steger said. “Yet, it still provides the performance and reliability that John Deere equipment has become known for.”

To compare, the manufacturer’s P-Tier backhoes offer operators more features and options, as well as higher performance than its G-Tier backhoes. As an example, the 320 P-Tier, a new offering, provides higher horsepower (a net peak of 113) than the 310SL model it has replaced. Moreover, it offers a heavy lift option, leading to a higher

lifting capacity, which is ideal for the frequent setting of heavy underground structures, including manholes.

“The 320 P-Tier also provides automatic ride control for a more comfortable ride during transport and load and carry operations,” Steger stated. “At the same time, it has a lift mode, resulting in increased hydraulic pressure [because] craning—with backhoes—occurs.”

Furthermore, it has a precision mode that diminishes hydraulic flow as operators place structures and pipes carefully, or as they dig around existing utilities, thus ensuring it’s a highly manageable and predictable machine as well.

“Our P-Tier excavators are great when they’re used underground too, as the 210 P-Tier, 350 P-Tier, 380 P-Tier and 470 P-Tier each offer a range of grade management solutions with valuable underground features,” he added. “For example, they feature 2D Guidance, 2D SmartGrade Ready Control or full 3D SmartGrade Control, while also enabling users to upgrade the technology offerings without requiring them to purchase new excavators. Each grade management solution is compatible with (or without) laser catchers, too.”

In the meantime, 2D SmartGrade Ready Control, along with all other SmartGrade offerings, for that matter, provide overdig protection too, which hydraulically restricts excavators. Therefore, they won’t dig deeper than operators’ set points, and over excavation will be prevented, resulting in time savings, as rework won’t need to occur. Bedding material costs will decline as well, while operators will also be able to “get to grade” accurately and quickly the first time they need to—all within a tenth of a survey foot.

“SmartGrade offerings, including 2D SmartGrade Ready Control, have virtual fences too, allowing operators to set, adjust or turn off left, right and upper limits, in order to manage dynamic jobsite obstacles,” Steger said. “As an operator approaches one of these obstacles, the excavator will alert the operator, yet it won’t be stopped while doing so.”

As a result of the 320 P-Tier’s offerings, operators can overcome many of the key issues associated with underground jobsites, including congestion, continuous changes and several obstacles, whether they’re in the ground or around the trenches in which work is being conducted.

“Backhoe features, like lift mode, enable the 320 P-Tier to be more capable, while precision mode ensures that it’s easier to operate around obstacles,” Steger stressed. “Excavator features, such as any of the grade management solutions, either provide reference or exact elevation feedback, resulting in less frequent manual grade checking. Consequently,

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less manual labor needs to check grading in trenches or trench boxes, allowing managers to repurpose their employees elsewhere on their jobsites so that job tasks can be completed faster and more safely.”

Drum Cutters Enhance Operators’ Safety

Often, operators will need to implement blasting to loosen very hard rock, while using tunnel boring machines (TBMs) on a large scale. As operators conduct blasting and use TBMs, they must also scale ceilings, floors and walls to remove potentially dangerous, loose materials. To do so in an accurate and safe way, they can use Epiroc ER and VC drum cutters as they trench and scale.

One benefit of the VC double drum model is that it doesn’t have to move side by side. This allows operators to dig various trenches, including those with flat bottoms and straight walls. If operators need to conduct job tasks for narrow trenches, they can use Epiroc’s ER L model instead because it has a single drum or cutting wheel, which can be installed on each of the manufacturer’s ER models. For further flexibility, each of the double drum offerings can be installed on every type of carrier, too.

“At Epiroc, we can offer numerous attachments that ensure underground mining occurs properly, leading to employee safety as well,” Schutte said.

Using drum cutters like the ER and VC, operators will be protected in another significant way: they won’t have to use hand tools. In fact, they won’t need to use any tools that may leave loose rocks on ceilings and walls, each of which can be dangerous.

“Our drum cutter products will accurately and safely remove loose materials on ceilings and walls,” Schutte added. “And, just as importantly, they’ll enable operators to cut or profile materials with minimal vibration, ensuring that cracks or fractures in materials on ceilings, floors and walls aren’t added, resulting in even further safety down the road— and, in turn, a decline in downtime, as well as the costs associated with it.”

Trenchless Equipment Benefits

Aside from using techniques like blasting on the job, operators can also implement trenchless installation methods, such as horizontal directional drilling, especially if they’re conducting construction and repair activities for utilities in suburban and urban areas. By using trenchless equipment, they can minimize their restoration efforts and traffic disruptions while ensuring that property owners are pleased with everything that is occurring.

“Boring a utility line is often more cost-effective and requires less time since it goes under roads and sidewalks, rather than through them,” said Clint Recker, product manager for

trenchless products, Vermeer. “Additionally, above-ground obstacles, such as driveways, fences, roadways and sidewalks, are no longer a concern.”

As contractors determine whether they should trench or use an HDD, the location must be considered.

“In urban areas, there are typically more above-ground obstacles that contractors have to account for,” stressed Ed Savage, product manager, Vermeer Corporation. “So, the usage of trenchless installation methods, like horizontal directional drilling, auger boring and piercing tools, tends to be more efficient than cutting through hard surfaces and then repairing them.”

Rural areas, on the other hand, have fewer road intersections or other obstacles to be concerned about. Trenching or using a vibratory plow is typically easier in these areas, rather than using an HDD alone. HDDs are still often used for road and river crossings.

In addition to location, contractors must consider ground conditions, installation depth and utility bundle size because each factor influences the sizes of the HDDs, trenchers and vibratory plows used on the jobsites.

“For example, if contractors are installing small-diameter electrical or fiber lines at shallow depths in soft soil conditions, vibratory plows are likely their best options,” Savage emphasized. “However, if they’re installing larger distribution lines at depths of more than a few feet, they’ll likely need to choose midsize trenchers instead.”

If contractors are conducting installations in rock or installing large diameter products at depths of more than 5 feet, they should consider using a higher horsepower trencher instead— particularly one that has a large boom and chain configuration that enables them to cut a trench at whichever width they need to.

“One more consideration that can influence the decision between HDD and trenching is equipment availability,” Savage added. “Unlike directional drills, trenchers are typically available at rental stores. Renting can be an attractive solution.”

Read more at: https://eqtoday.co/ underground0923

UNDERGROUND UTILITY EQUIPMENT September 2023 | EQUIPMENT TODAY 39

 John Deere Construction & Forestry’s 310 G-Tier offers users high performance, along with cost effectiveness. Chris Lewis is a freelance writer for Equipment Today. John Deere

General Equipment

Two-Man Hole Diggers

General Equipment Co.’s 332H and 348H EPIC Series two-man hole diggers feature 5.5-hp (4.1kW) Honda GXV160 four-stroke engines and are capable of digging holes up to 18 in. (457 mm) in diameter. They offer an ergonomic design and heavy-duty construction to handle a range of construction-related, hole digging projects, from simple backyard fencing to more complex landscaping or soil sampling jobs. The 332H and 348H include a lightweight, heavy-duty, totally enclosed spur-gear transmission with oversized bearings, heat-treated shafts and machine-cut gears.

Vermeer Verifier G3+ Utility Locator

This new-generation locator features connectivity and intuitive controls. The Verifier G3+ utility locator pairs with smartphones using the G3+ Map mobile app (available for IOS and Android) to plot location information, including depth, current index, GPS data, utility type, device name and the operator who performed the work. The data-capturing ability of the Verifier G3+ locator allows contractors and utility owners to capture and store information about construction projects. The GPS-enabled Verifier G3+ utility locator can determine underground current direction against adjacent signals from other utilities. It can detect ambient noise so the operator can switch to a different frequency for a particular jobsite.

Terex Utilities Commander Digger Derrick With FLEX PRO Control System

The Commander Digger Derrick with FLEX PRO is an optional control system that is available in a combination of consoles, dual joystick command post or radio controls. The control system supports below rotation controls like a corner mount swing away operator console, plug-and-play radio controls, dual command post joystick controls and other operating features.

Terex digger derricks also feature dual hydraulic lift cylinders with trapezoidal design that stabilizes the boom during digging and rotation. With the addition of FLEX PRO controls, operators of Commander and General digger derricks have features that allow toggling between slow and fast modes for function control.

Western Global FuelCube Type-S Fuel Tank

The FuelCube Type-S is a compact fuel tank that fits in the back of a truck. Available in the U.S., the FuelCube Type-S is a reliable, flexible and transportable fuel tank for fleets on jobsites. Designed to safely transport and dispense diesel fuel without hazardous material placard requirements, it serves as an alternative to slip tanks. This new solution offers 110% containment, security features and versatility for fleet operators. The dual-purpose adaptability of the tank allows businesses to use it as a truck bed tank or an on-site tank. The FuelCube Type-S features a 119-gal. capacity and is for 3/4-ton pickups or larger because of the tank’s weight when filled with fuel.

Ignite Attachments Auger Attachment Series

Ignite Attachments added a new auger line. The four models offer self-aligning features for vertical holes. A choice of drive system provides torque for tough digging conditions. The 75DDH and 165DDH augers both feature a classic-drive system, which provides torque ratio at a range of rpm. The 75DDH has a hydraulic flow range of 8 gpm to 20 gpm and the 165DDH has a hydraulic flow range of 14 gpm to 25 gpm. Both models offer a digging depth of 50 in. with a standard bit or up to 86 in. with an optional extension. Planetary-drive models include the 150 ph with a hydraulic flow range of 10 gpm to 20 gpm and the 210 ph with a flow range of 15 gpm to 30 gpm.

BOSS BA870 Air Compressor

Weighing 270 lbs. (dry), the new Boss BA870 uses a single-stage, hydraulicmotor-driven, eight-cylinder engine that produces up to 70 cfm at 100 psi. Based on the success of its flagship piston air compressor, the BA 440, this new BA870 piston compressor has almost twice the performance but not twice the size. By putting two BOSS V4 piston compressors inline and using the efficiencies of the hydraulic system, the BA870 is designed for big jobs that require big power. At the heart of the system are two aluminum, single-stage, V4, pressure and splash lubricated reciprocating air compressors.

40 EQUIPMENT TODAY | September 2023 www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment UNDERGROUND UTILITY Products Read More at https://eqtoday.co/ljmwtb

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Kubota Stand-on Track Loader Attachments

A line of attachments is available for the SCL1000 standon track loader. The attachments include:

• Compact mount performancematched for the BR360 and BR460 breakers

• Six buckets in standard and high-capacity options ranging from 36 in. to 48 in.

• Pallet forks offer 36-in. and 42-in. fork lengths with a 1,200-lb. capacity

• Power rake features a 48-in. working width, center pivot and adjustable hydraulic angling

• Trencher comes in 30-in., 36-in. and 48-in. depths

• Skid auger has a pendulum mount and a reversible gearbox

John Deere TC-Series Trenchers

The TC36 and TC48 trenchers are designed for lighter-duty tasks, and are compatible with John Deere skid steers and compact track loaders, as well as most competitive models. Features include:

• A spring-loaded trencher boom reduces system shock

• Crumber boom pulls loosen soil into the trenchers, leaving a clean bottom, and an auger removes spoils from trenches

• An integrated skid shoe helps stabilization while trenching

• An angle indicator provides optimal trenching angle

• Include a low-profile drive system and side shift

Super Products Mud Dog 700 Vacuum Excavator

The Mud Dog 700 combines pressurized water with an industrialstrength vacuum in one mobile unit. An optional compressed air package is also available. The water system includes an 11-gpm, 3,000-psi water pump, 600gal. water capacity and 100 ft. of 1/2-in. hose reel capacity. The 8-in. positive-displacement vacuum system offers 3,100 cfm and features an industrial, tapered cyclone externally mounted with a large 16-in. clean-out door. An 8-in.-diameter extendable boom offers 18 ft. of reach and 270-degree boom rotation. The unit comes with a 7-cu.-yd. debris body with a dump unloading system that offers a 50-degree dump angle with the capability to dump into a 48-in. box container.

Venturo Workforce Packages

The commercial vehicle upfitting program was extended to include Workforce service body packages, including Workforce25, Workforce45, Workforce55 and Workforce66. Available in different configurations and options that range from 10,000-lb. to more than 33,000-lb. GVW chassis. Telescopic service crane options from 5,000-lb. to 11,500-lb. max capacity, 25,000-ft.-lb. to 66,000-ft.-

lb. ratings and from 25-ft. to 30-ft. hydraulic boom extension. Include the VLC Crane Control System and BOSS BA440 air compressor. It is installed, tested and fine-tuned by technicians to exacting factory specifications.

DEVELON MINI EXCAVATOR THUMB

DEVELON DOZER PARALLEL RIPPER ATTACHMENT

Lightweight, rugged thumb attachment maintains a tight hold on material with limited reduction in lifting capacity. Controlled movement with precise hydraulics allows you to easily grab delicate material or clamp tightly on debris. Installs quickly due to thumb-ready arm and standard auxiliary hydraulics on the excavator.”

The DEVELON dozer includes piping for an optional ripper attachment, making it easy to add. The ripper attachment features parallel linkage that helps maintain a constant angle to the ground, regardless of the height — to quickly break up hard, rugged materials prior to grading.

Discover more: na.develon-ce.com/et

Terramac RT14 SuperVac

The RT14 SuperVac combines the RT14 all-terrain utility vehicle with the SuperVac VXS500-4 vacuum excavator to enable locating underground utilities while navigating challenging ground conditions. The vacuum system provides 5,200-cfm air flow and includes a 4-yd. debris/spoil tank and a 6-in.-diameter suction hose. The SuperVac is powered by a 375-hp CAT 9.3L Tier 4 Final diesel engine. It has a 400-gal. water tank with a flow of 13.4 gpm at 4,000 psi. The 310hp RT14 carries up to 28,000 lbs. with a gradeability of 58%, has a zero-turn radius and ground pressure of 4.9 psi unloaded and 7.4 psi loaded.

42 EQUIPMENT TODAY | September 2023 DON’T BITE OFF MORE THAN YOU CAN CHEW …OR LESS LOFTNESS.COM Mulching Heads Flail Mowers Mechanical Trimmer LOW AND HIGH FLOW SKID STEERS & EXCAVATORS 10,000 LBS - 88,000 LBS BATTLE AX TWO-STAGE CUTTING CHAMBER Thoroughly process material with the exclusive two-stage cutting chamber featuring an adjustable primary shear bar. EXCLUSIVE DEPTH GAUGE DESIGN Maximize productivity by not biting off too much, or too little, material at one time. The new Battle Ax rotor has unique depth gauges that optimize the material feed rate for top efficiency.

Hammerhead HydroBurst 100XTR

The HydroBurst 100XTR features a 100-ton capability that is rated for up to 16 in. in diameter, yet it is compact enough for use on pipe down to 4 in. Operators can switch to a 50-ton mode for working up to twice as fast depending on job requirements. Lightweight, heat-treated alloy rods feature an APIstyle joint that resists buckling under greater thrust loads and can burst steel and ductile steel pipes when used with special tooling. An automated rod spinner has a locking jaw system that provides constant tension on the rod string to eliminate rod rebound.

TT Technologies

Grundodrill 28N

Directional Drill

The Grundodrill 28N directional drill rig offers 62 lb.-ft. of thrust and pullback, 8,110 lb.-ft. of torque and a bore length of 1,640 ft.

• The five-position swivel cabin provides optimum viewing of all operations

Two multifunction joysticks offer total control of boring and driving functions

• The high-resolution touchscreen display delivers real-time bore data and operational performance

Little Beaver Kwik-Trench

Little Beaver’s KwikTrench mini-trencher is offered in two models, both able to trench up to 30 ft. per minute. A compact design paired with durable construction and components allows the Kwik-Trench to tackle a multitude of projects. Featuring carbide-tipped teeth and a powerful drive system, the mini trencher cuts through tough surfaces such as road fill, asphalt and tree roots. The Kwik-Trench is designed to minimize backfill and cleanup time by depositing soil beside the trench.

Digga HALO Alignment System

Digga offers the HALO alignment system for drilling applications on construction sites. Located in the hood ring of the auger, HALO provides an operator with a simultaneous clear line of sight to itself and the hole being dug. HALO uses a band of LED lights, which when fully illuminated green, indicate that the auger is plumb. If the auger moves from its plumb position, a sequence of red and green lights will be lit to guide the operator back to plumb. This product does not need a spotter and spirit level to guide the operator. It also ensures that holes are drilled plumb and reduces the number of in-hole angle adjustments, resulting in no oversized holes (minimizes the amount of concrete when filling). The system eliminates sideload on augers and auger bits, avoiding potential damage and repairs.

Subsite Electronics Marksman

HDD Guidance System

Subsite Electronics introduced the Marksman for shallow bore projects. The Marksman is the second product introduced in the Marksman series of HDD guidance systems, following the release of the Marksman+ in 2021. The Marksman features single-button calibration, minimizing the risk of human error and supporting the preparation process. Six frequency options and simplified features are designed for completing shallow bores for service installation. The Marksman is compatible with Subsite’s TD Recon and Commander 7, as well as the Subsite Field Scout.

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BOOTH K120 | By Charles Rathmann, Senior Editor, Construction Technology,

Tilson CTO Offers SOFTWARE TIPS for Utilities Contractor

As CTO of Tilson, a network deployment contractor with more than 700 employees and 20 offices, Jason Burns knows quite a bit about the optimal technology stack. But he has an even better idea since he also heads Tilson’s construction software advisory and services practice. Utility construction is set for explosive growth, with telecom outside plant contractors bracing for growth driven by the $48 billion Broadband Access and Employment Program’s Notice of Funding Opportunity. Renewables contractors are facing a similar delta, with wind turbine and service technicians and solar photovoltaic installers the two fastest-growing professions. Some forecasters suggest non-hydro renewable electric capacity could grow by almost 200% in the next 10 years.

Because this is a hot market, Senior Technology Editor Charles Rathmann sat down with Burns for a solid brain dump. Here is a rundown of the technology in place at Tilson, from the back office to the field, and Burns’ picks for others in the space and beyond.

RATHMANN: So inside Tilson, for your own operations, what type of technology touches your value stream from go-no-go decisions to pursue something to work in progress to

recognizing the revenue? What does your technology stack look like?

BURNS: Listen, we’re in the middle of updating our technology stack. I’ll give you what my future state is that we’re currently building out We’re using a mix of systems. We have Zoho for sales and opportunities ingestion. We never moved that to what has become our primary operations systems which is Sitetracker, based on Salesforce. Our primary financial systems are Vista by Trimble Viewpoint (now part of Trimble Construction One). And we use Workday for our human capital management system.

We have some ancillary systems for safety and whatnot, but our primary systems are and will be Sitetracker and Vista. Our goal, to answer your question of how we bring something all the way through, all of our information is connected to a central data repository warehouse. We use Microsoft Azure networks as our event grid. And then we use a Power BI layer on top of it.

One of the things that’s a little different here at Tilson, is we’ve redesigned our systems. People get reporting outputs, analytics, everything done in Power BI. They don’t use their native application. That way, we can mix all of our data sources in one place. It gives us a full picture of where we’re at right now where we’re going.

RATHMANN: With Power BI, are you finding that the sources you’re pulling stuff from have easily recognizable enough data models, where it’s easy to combine them into analytics, or were there certain things you had to do to kind of make sure that the data was clean and standardized and stuff like that?

BURNS: Well, the real trick is to have a source data input system and stay in one lane. I have a methodology that whoever touches the piece of information first enters it. I have these key people and one system where I can ensure that when a job is first known, the first person in our process are the ones who start the process, then that job number articulates to all the other systems automatically. In order to get what you’re asking, you need to have a few key data points, job numbers, vendor numbers, employees and cost structures. They’ll have to be the same, and they will have to be repeated across all of your systems. That way, when you pull their data into your warehouse, you have the ability to normalize it and relate it immediately, because you’ve used key data fields that relate the data to each other.

RATHMANN: Do you have data from Sitetracker communicating directly into Vista through a unidirectional or bidirectional interface? Or are you

pretty much rolling everything up at the Power BI level?

BURNS: Both. It depends if the other system needs it is obviously the operational data that the financial system doesn’t need, and vice versa. What we do is we do use API calls, but we use Microsoft’s Event Grid as a central hub. It pushes data in and out of the source and target systems. Kind of like your heart, right? It acts as the heart of all data movement across the network. It pumps in and pumps out.

RATHMANN: So it is not a direct integration then?

BURNS: Connecting with APIs is dangerous because they break, you can’t change your systems easily. They’re really complicated if you want to move on to something else or want to introduce a new piece of information. Doing it this way, if you want to add a new piece of information, you go to the event group and say you want this piece of information. And then you can automatically tag it to all systems from there as opposed to writing over and over and over again, every API call.

RATHMANN: Is that type of approach something you’re recommending or steering a lot of your advisory and consulting clients or customers towards as well?

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PROFIT

MATTERS

IRONPROS

BURNS: Yes. You want to make integrating easy, but you have to centralize how you do it and make it so you can replace systems in a more expeditious and less costly manner. This accomplishes that.

RATHMANN: Do you think there are advantages to doing it that way versus relying on construction specific integration platform as a service like Agave or Trimble’s Construction Data Exchange?

BURNS: A lot of vendors have integration platforms. Autodesk has one. Trimble has one. I have no issue with what the vendors and what they’re building, and they might be the right choice for some people. My specific point of view on this is that I don’t want to use a primary application API, because it ties me to that application vendor. I rather use something independent. You can argue I’m using Microsoft makes you more attached to Microsoft, but is there any really other option in the corporate enterprise?

RATHMANN: We are seeing the emergence of a number of broad spectrum of specific applications for various types of construction. It might make sense for contractors to use a pretty vertical solution. But then, we’ve got these broad, horizontal solutions and technologies that get tremendous research and development. They’ve got ecosystems. They’re well understood. And for some of our core infrastructure we want to rely on. Which way should utility contractors jump?

BURNS: Sitetracker does that--they’re built on Salesforce. But I’m leaving the application-centric model and moved to a data-centric model. The center of most people’s universes is their enterprise resources planning (ERP) software, or whatever might be their accounting system. And then

they try to strap on all that data from those best in classes or secondary systems, and they just dump it into their ERP. The problem is that they become reliant entirely on the ERP. And the secondary systems are really hard to get rid of because you can’t replace them easily. In my model, the heart the sun is your data, and your applications are revolving around it.

RATHMANN: When it comes to utility contractors that you work with, and I figure you’re probably work with a number of different types of contractors, how do their needs for technology solutions differ from someone who might be a building contractor or involved in heavy civil projects?

BURNS: The largest difference between general construction and utility trade specifically is how they produce their work both billing to their clients, and how they manage it. Then vertical construction, and even some horizontal construction, such as like roads heavy highway, they’re using typical work-in-place systems, and they’re on percent of complete basis. They’re working off of formal 2D drawings and might be using some geospatial information.

But that’s largely being used in the safety space for most of those, except for like the large highway infrastructure projects. In the utility space, they’re working off of milestone systems, which is a totally different mindset. It’s geospatial to start, and they never start in a typical blueprint. There’s no such thing as a CAD drawing in most cases, or a Revit model, because they don’t extend doing a 600-mile fiber run with 5,000 service address houses passed or something to that nature.

In that space, the utility contractors have very few choices to projectmanage that work. There might be only two real systems of commercial grade out there, along with a bunch of emerging products. But it’s been largely ignored, because it’s a smaller space. But right now, with the massive funding coming through for fiber to the home projects through federal grants and budget funds, you are seeing more entries here.

RATHMANN: When it comes to the project management solutions that are fit for this space,

which ones do you think are best suited?

BURNS: I believe that Sitetracker is most likely is leading in this space. There are some emerging people out there. Trimble has a decent product. There are three or four products that are emerging right now that I would say are still maturing.

RATHMANN: What role do geospatial technologies like geographic information systems (GIS) play for utility contractors right now?

BURNS: There’s a ton of geospatial stuff coming out. Everyone knows ArcGIS and Esri, and you have a contender in the market like Vetro FiberMap.

RATHMANN: With the geospatial technology, is it largely a matter of the utility contractor engaging with a GIS from a municipal or private owner, or are they pretty much owning that application and data set?

BURNS: The contractor owns the data set and turns over a deliverable for what the actual runs are, and there’s a whole process for that. But the geospatial data is largely owned by the contractor that installed it. Most of the telecoms don’t install their own product. They’re pushing their asset and project risks all the way down to like the mid-market contractors

RATHMANN: Do you think that approach is sustainable, or will the telecoms need to build up internal capacity for things like emergency service and some build-out activities?

BURNS: What I have found is this for the large industrial communication like telecoms, in order to spend their CapEx in a whey where they can make their numbers, they can’t actually deploy the resources internally. They’ve got to find an external way and that allows them a lot of time. In these milestone projects, you can wait a significant amount of time to be paid compared to a traditional build, where you’re getting paid every 30 days on percent complete. It lets them stretch their money out even further.

RATHMANN: In terms of being able to document that a milestone is reached, so you can get to that liquidity event, what types of technologies do you see utility contractors using?

BURNS: What we’ve done here at Tilson over the last year or two years is introduce a correlation between our financial data so we can speed up processing to billing and invoicing that requires really good close-out processes with good documentation.

RATHMANN: Are you seeing much in the way of like data capture in the field

to drive your proof of have quantities or milestones reached?

BURNS: We’re entering in daily quantities of linear feet produced every day. When we are executing or estimating long haul, horizontal fiber installations, whether underground or aerial, that pathway of how you might go through bringing fiber into a rural community or urban environment, you are adding a lot of data points to the project. And we can lock in the drill information with what we know from geospatial information, and they become a single data set. We could apply artificial intelligence (AI) in the future to start producing pathways for us—that’s an exciting future goal I personally have but the industry is looking for too.

RATHMANN: Are you seeing folks tap into telematics units of the drill to document your progress and port that directly into a milestone application?

BURNS: It’s beyond telematics. When people think of telematics, they think of rotations, feet, and operating cycles? How many plates do they push through. We have a new data point that’s emerged over the last two years from the drill head locator. There’s someone that walks around with like a long looking stick, kind of like a metal detector. It sees right where the drill head is, and they talk to each other. So you get real time information on pitch depth, how hard it’s pushing.

And you can figure out what type of surface it’s going through. Before, it just used to be a remote drill head and you’re doing your best to follow it. You’re getting back spin rates and pressure and all those things. But now with the locator beacon in front of it, we’re now getting accurate within millimeters data information.

RATHMANN: With such cool tech in market, what technologies do you think utilities contractors are still looking for?

BURNS: It needs the ability to map underground. We’ve got lots of cool stuff now where we can fly drones, they’ll do all those things. They’ve got this stamper that they can kind of do like a sonogram, you know, sonar of the ground underneath them. But when you’re talking about a major suburb where you’ve got to run fiber to the home, you really have no idea what you’re drilling around. The biggest problem you encounter when doing this type of work is hitting something that’s existing.

Read more at: https://eqtoday.co/pmatters0923

September 2023 | EQUIPMENT TODAY 45 www.ForConstructionPros.com/Equipment

Tilson  Tilson CTO Jason Burns

4 TOP TECHNOLOGIES FOR UTILITY CONTRACTORS

Utility construction takes place in a distributed environment, where issuing tasks to individuals, crews and equipment is hard enough. But, contractors also need to find reliable and lean ways to record production as it happens so they get paid. Utility contractors may need one or even two types of software for this.

If a utility contractor sends a technician or a crew to multiple sites each day for installations or service, they need field service management software. Field service software dispatches crews to jobs and becomes more attractive as a contractor’s or a utility’s team of field technicians or crews grows. Some software even automates dispatch, assigning tasks to those with the right skills, capacity, and parts or tools to do the work.

The most advanced will automatically create an optimal, ongoing schedule with adjustments for emergent service calls, technician’s current locations, the tools and materials on each truck, the skill sets

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of the technicians, and the contractual obligations with each customer.

Field service management software vendors that serve the construction industry include IFS, Jobber and ServiceTitan. Some of these systems will also provide a full quote-to-cash process and even encompass features of customer relationship management.

Meanwhile, field productivity software manages operations on sites over a period of days, weeks, months or even years. It may include job ticketing, materials ticketing, timecards, safety management, and the ability to record notes or photos of operations in the field. The 2023 State of the Industry: Construction Technology Report found that field productivity software was the most significant construction technology for the year (see Figure 1).

Field productivity software functionality is built into many construction business software products or project management software used by utility contractors,

including B2W, HCSS and Procore. In some cases, field productivity and field service management are also merging, and products from companies (including BusyBusy, Service Titan and Operix) are expanding into more robust functionality.

Operix’s Sage Field Operations is designed for contractors that have both a project-driven workflow on a construction site and break-fix or service calls. This may be the case for contractors that support maintenance or installations for utilities on assets like electric meters, fiber-optic cables, and sewer and water lines.

Sage Field Operations enables contractors to set up a small job with a simplified budget, so they can track actual cost against a scope that may even be completed from start to finish on the same day. This scales to the full construction project finance capabilities of progress billing and capitalization of expenses and work-inprocess accounting from an integrated instance of Sage Intacct if a work order takes long enough to complete to make it desirable.

2. CONSTRUCTION OPERATING SYSTEMS

Business software is rife with threeletter acronyms, and at risk of creating another, we may be seeing the birth of a new product category for utility contractors—construction operating systems. These solutions encompass the different resources and processes that are required to deliver work and unite them in a single application: Equipment, people, crews, materials and rental equipment. They may look like a field productivity solution on steroids, but they are different enough to call out separately.

These applications encompass different drivers of cost and productivity in the field than most field productivity solutions. They may engage more deeply with subcontractors or suppliers. They certainly have a deeper integration of equipment data, including GPS location, use and, in-rental and out-rental.

One player, T3, may be overshadowed by the popularity and reach of EquipmentShare, its owner.

“It’s often overlooked that we have this software, but if you rent from EquipmentShare, you get access to that technology platform,” Senior Director of T3 Sales Kristopher Dunn said. “The T3 application allows you to take advantage of that technology even if you don’t rent from us.”

“We’ve got time cards—you can clock in and out through a mobile application, clock in and out on jobs, codes or even project phases. You can even clock in on equipment work orders associated with a certain project to really get a full picture of how much it’s costing you to maintain your fleet.”

EquipmentShare makes heavy use of geofences, which provide visibility into where equipment and people are, managing them in concert just as they work on projects. This extends to the process of transporting equipment.

“Where are your people?” Dunn said. “What are they doing because people are a very sparse resource, and they need to make sure that you’re using their time effectively and efficiently. We give you a full picture of what people are doing alongside what your machines are doing.

“We have E logs as well. Most contractors have a division of their company that has trucks, haulers or trailers to transport equipment, which means DOT ELD compliance.

“We’ve got inventory management, so parts and inventory, including parts for your equipment as well as consumables and materials. On top of that, if you are fully using the work order system, and our inventory system within T3, you have the capacity to know which parts go on which pieces of equipment, and we actually give you forecasting and tell you what you’re expected to spend on parts in the next 60 to 90 days.”

One emerging vendor of interest to larger contractors on demanding projects is Houston-based Management Controls. Management Controls President Ken Naughton and Senior Vice President of Technology Michael Lewis discussed the capabilities of a new version of the MyTrack product, used in downstream oil and gas for 30 years.

“Our strategy is to help manage all contractor spend,” Naughton said. “We’ll help them with anything from routine maintenance to lump sum, unit rate or time and materials billing. We manage labor, equipment, materials, rental equipment. We added the rental equipment module last year, but we always tracked labor, owned equipment and materials.”

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The software goes beyond equipment management to encompass many significant construction field management disciplines.

“We do offer GPS for equipment,” Dunn said. “A lot of people have GPS for mixed fleets today, but this is a full suite of applications that get access for better decisions for your business.

While MyTrack manages owned and rented equipment natively, a partnership with Triax supports users who may use utilization data to gain visibility into equipment that is under used and could be out-rented. Equipment is managed in MyTrack not just on its own, but along with an operator, including operator certifications and skill sets.

MyTrack is currently used by both contractors and asset owners.

“Historically, it was always the owner for us,” Naughton said. “But as we sell more to EPC contractors and

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“These contractors are obviously trying to make sure there is proof of presence for days they were on site, proof they there on time with their crew, documenting that so payment can be ready. We make sure the work they perform aligns with the contract.”

MyTrack also provides progress capture and analysis to support milestone-based earned value management contracts.

“Our users can figure out earned versus burned, schedule to complete and whether the project is in the ditch and if it is, do a course correct,” Naughton said, adding that while enterprise resource planning (ERP) software may handle some of this, “Our number is accurate—we operate further to front door than ERP. Proof of presence, proof of being contractaligned, with those two steps, you get net billable time. Contractors can’t log in and request to get paid for 10 hours if they were only there eight. Our forecast of these metrics is also more accurate than ERP.”

Five years ago, Management Controls moved MyTrack from a legacy, on-premise architecture to a true Software as a Service (SaaS) model on Microsoft Azure. Some legacy customers are still on-premise, but new sales are 100% SaaS subscription.

3. GIS & UNDERGROUND MAPPING

Geographic information systems (GIS) loom large in this industry, and market leaders like Esri ArcGIS are ubiquitous.

“It used to be that selling the idea of 3D visualization was hard, but now this is expected,” Esri Director for AEC Industry Solutions Mark Goldman said.

Esri delivers visualization of the physical world primarily through desktop apps, given the processing power required. GIS Professional Basic, Professional Standard and Professional Advanced extend basic capabilities to map, visualize and manage data to multi-user databases, automated quality control, data analysis and high-end cartography.

One GIS need of many utility contractors though involves mapping the environment underground. Here, we see some emerging companies, including 4M Analytics, an Austin- and Tel Aviv-based startup.

It is early days for 4M, which pulled $40 million in a September 2022 Series A round.

According to the Common Ground Alliance, underground construction strikes buried utility lines and infrastructure with such frequency— with 385,000 incidents in 2020 alone—that this big problem will bring big opportunity for 4M and customers relying on its tech to lower risk and protect timelines.

4M is mashing up multiple data sources with artificial intelligence to create a consistent view of the underground environment.

Sources include state government entities responsible for sharing utility location data, research institutions, nonprofit organizations, counties and municipalities.

4M will also harness GIS data with information on the location of roads and associated utility runs and rights of way. Private entities, including utilities, will also be a data source.

4. ROBOTIC INSPECTION DRONES

When documenting work on a project or delivering inspection as an ongoing service, utility contractors may also need reality capture technology. Here, Esri has an offering in SiteScan for ArcGIS. The application allows a contractor to automate real-time kinematic drones with ground control points for an accurate rendering of a point or linear assets. A terrain following feature maintains a constant height above the ground for consistent resolution and overlaps.

In August of 2023, San Francisco remote sensing startup Birdstop announced that it raised its first round of funding for its autonomous inspection drones and FAA approval to fly beyond visual line of site.

PROFIT MATTERS September 2023 | EQUIPMENT TODAY 47

 Figure 1: One third of contractors in an IRONPROS-ForConstructionPros study are already using field productivity and job ticketing, and another third are planning or budgeting for it.

8 WAYS to Run a Better Construction Business

 Put your culture first, learn from your mistakes, share your knowledge, be confident, believe in the old and new, and always be a neighbor.

How to deal with the labor shortage with training and mentoring.

My father handed me a black trash bag and my career in masonry began. I was nine years old.

Fast forward many decades and my masonry career has moved across the country, into celebrities’ homes and, most recently, into a passion for helping other contractors in hiring.

Throughout my career, the threads of mentorship, passion and collaboration have helped me differentiate myself and my business.

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Here’s a few of the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

Lesson

1: Benefits in Balance

My father would assign me the job of sorting different rocks by sizes: Golf ball-sized rocks here, softball here and basketball there. That then turned into the fun stuff: laying brick.

Between the ages of 12 and 14, I got hands-on and began running crews. It really kicked off when I went to a vocational high school and studied masonry and concrete, gaining a true understanding of the materials.

My father told me about SkillsUSA, a great national skilled trades competition for young students. If I got gold medals in the school, district, state and/or national levels, I’d get a raise. I placed second at nationals.

Though my humble beginnings in masonry looked like my father’s—given that he was the third-generation owner of DiBara Masonry (and I’d become the fourth)—the old way versus the new way truly came to a head at this time.

Nothing was wrong with the old school way necessarily, but finding harmony between the old and new became a long-standing thread through my career. My dad’s old school mentorship methods would be what pushed me to improve my skills and drive, my new goals for changing the company would take DiBara Masonry to different heights.

Lesson 2: Old School Knowledge Can Differentiate You

My dad was modern with tools and products. However, he wasn’t as modern with advertising and marketing sales technology. That was where we butted heads because I saw the shift of the internet and what it would do to business.

But what’s important is not

dropping one way of doing business or work entirely. It’s more about integrating the two. Don’t forget to fall in love with your materials. Don’t forget to find out about the best products and why they’re better.

For example, we used to mix our own mortar and concrete colors. When it came later for color kits with little samples, you could do it easier, but then it became a hard job to match. I was still the go to guy because I know how to custom mix colors. I think there’s an opportunity in construction for us to really understand and respect our roots.

Lesson 3: Always Be a Neighbor

Much farther back than my father’s ownership of the company was my great grandfather’s. An immigrant from Italy, he grew his business through three values: an honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay; never try and retire off one customer; and most importantly, treat customers like they’re your neighbor.

When I decided to move the family business from Boston to California, I followed those same values. What that looked like was over delivering and doing the small things, like taking the client’s trash out. Digging up trees or flowers, I’d go to other customers and ask if they had interest in the flowers.

I had to start from the bottom. The only thing that could stick was showing up and following through on all my promises.

Lesson 4: Confidence Is Your Best Trait

Confidence is what got me into doing celebrity work. A very well-known celebrity had a job at his home, and he had a leak in his pool.

I told him, and he said, “I’ve had five companies come out, and you’re just this young kid. There’s no way I have a leak.”

I responded, “I’ll hire the leak company, pay $3,000 out of pocket to run a full evaluation. If there’s a leak, you reimburse me and hire me to do the work.”

He hired me, and that was one of the breakthroughs into high-end clientele. Since then, I’ve done a lot of celebrity homes and built a reputation around our company that we get it done, once we get it done right.

We also do a lot of large government projects, such as the Veterans National Cemetery where we laid 6,000 or more pieces of granite.

Lesson 5: Finding Fulfillment in Mentorship

I’m a big believer in mentors. Today, I am a mentor for others in hiring and retention, but that all began with a mentor of mine, Damian Lang. While searching for the future of my company, I reached out to a local association seeking a mentor.

Lang is a Mason Contractors Association of America Hall of Fame inductee. He owns five companies, ranging from masonry to manufacturing. He invited me to stay with him for a few days to see his operations.

He showed me that I could maintain the current success and size of my company and find the fulfillment that I wanted, which would be helping other contractors. The breakthrough I had with Lang was, “Oh, you can get different types of fulfillments from different businesses, and you can run multiple companies.”

Lesson 6: Learn from Your (Hiring) Mistakes

A few years prior, I was given a massive wake-up call: My company began losing nearly $1 million. We couldn’t hire enough skilled workers to complete jobs on time. So, I devoted all my time and energy to figuring out a solution to the problem. I studied other industries, company cultures and the modern hiring market.

While I found an answer through a mentor, I was solidifying my passion in helping contractors. I knew I could do both and took my lessons learned in hiring into consulting contractors on their own hiring challenges.

The knowledge I gained came from old lessons, doing just as my great grandfather did and incorporating new elements, such as technology.

Lesson 7: Share Your Knowledge

Balancing old with new, leaning on mentorship, and diversifying my experience in masonry has led me to both run a successful masonry company and a successful consulting company I am passionate about.

Preaching a lesson of sharing knowledge as a mentor, I can’t leave you without a few hiring tips:

˜ Dedicate time in hiring. If you’re looking to fill jobs, you need to dedicate more time each day to doing so and following a proven system. Hiring is like baking a cake.

If you’re off in a measurement, or forget to spray the pan, the entire thing is thrown off.

˜ Invest in your team. One of my best marketing tools right now is my fantastic team. You need to look at investing in your team as a revenue-generating activity not just putting a body into a slot.

˜ Understand your needs. The first step in our hiring course is ensuring that you have a clear understanding of who you need for

the role by analyzing and auditing your current team, down to their daily tasks. For example, high pay often equals high skill, but you could have a project manager picking up plans and dropping off samples, and their output is greatly reduced because of that.

˜ Evaluate your team and competitors. We first look at optimizing before maximizing because sometimes you don’t need to hire anybody. Sometimes you restructure the role and you’re like, “Oh, actually, if we take out this component, we’ll just promote Tom.” It all begins with an internal audit then auditing your competitors to see what they’re doing for hiring.

Lesson 8: Culture, Culture, Culture

To leave you with a last nugget of knowledge, I must mention something about company culture. Reigning in hiring helps culture, and it helps the bottom line.

It allows us to offer people more money and make their jobs more manageable. There’s nothing more exciting to me than when my team loves what they do.

It’s partly because of the nontraditional pay scale that I learned growing up with my dad. He gave me a raise when I honed my skills and performed well. There’s no time limit to learning things.

We review often. In an employee’s first four months, we do a two-week, a 30-day and a 90-day review—all of those are eligible for a raise.

And be sure to answer: Would you work for you? Google yourself. Based on what you see, answer the question. Would you be excited to work for your company? Showcase who you are, what makes you unique and why they should work for you.

As an owner, it’s helped me spend time with my family and round out my life personally. I couldn’t have done any of this before because of how reactionary it all was.

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