Construction PLANT NEWS
@CPN_mag cpnonline.co.uk Construction Plant News, Regal House,
14 This monthThe Dig tackles the Takeuchi TB320 and finds it tickles his fancy.
cpn@hamerville.co.uk
CPN AT LARGE
10 CPN brings you the action from a former Soviet army base in the Czech Republic as Develon unleashes its machines for its first demo day.
17 The New Forest is the tranquil setting for a look at Manitou’s MRTs. CPN reports.
24 The growing acceptance of tilt couplers is good news for business. CPN talks to two companies that are seeing the dividends.
26 Custom-built bucket by Ulrich solves wasteful handling problem.
WISE WORDS
CPN recently attended the Construction Plant-Hire Association’s (CPA) annual conference and, not surprisingly, there was a great deal of food for thought. The overall theme of the day was ‘Shaping the Future: Insights for the Plant-Hire Sector’ and the 200-strong delegates were not disappointed as current industry issues were discussed in wide-ranging fashion.
Setting the scene in the opening keynote speech, Steve Mulholland, CPA’s chief executive officer, emphasised the need to combine evolution with revolution. In particular, he was referring to the challenge of implementing new technology and techniques to meet Net Zero obligations, which is becoming something of a double-edged sword.
Steve argued strongly for a more pragmatic, common-sense approach from governments and regulatory bodies, especially “with our politicians and some Tier 1 contractors and their clients racing to mandate policies too quickly to outdo one another, and as manufacturers race to gain commercial advantages over one another, so plant hirers then have little option but to conform to these mandates. Ultimately it is the end buyer, us the hirer, who feels the pain at the sharp end,” he was heard to say.
He continued that CPA members, end users, hirers and suppliers must be able to continue producing and using fossil-fuel powered equipment while alternatives were sensibly phased in that could genuinely give the same performance as diesel equivalents, with an infrastructure capable of supplying the future fuels required. “Evolving to get there without these ridiculous targets is how we will do it, not by panic and knee-jerk reactions to meet impossible political targets which suit their own agendas and that of the noisy minorities,” he added.
Of course, the counter argument is that there is no gain without a bit of pain, but depending on your place in the food chain, that pain might be unfairly distributed, as Steve seems to be alluding to.
Whatever one’s view or take on the matter, there’s no doubt that authorities and businesses awarding contracts will be grasping the environmental nettle and tasking contractors with using lower or zero emission equipment going forward. That path is set in stone. Whether you call it evolution or revolution is probably a personal matter.
Though the direction of travel is towards greater emphasis on alternatively fuelled machines, we are miles away from any parity between ICE and electric machines on site. Figures from Off-Highway Research show global sales of electric machines are forecast to be in the region of 3.1% among categories where electric variants are available or 2.6% across the market as a wholeby 2028. A drop in the ocean by any yardstick.
On that note, and with the festive season upon us, it just remains for the CPN team to wish you all a Happy Christmas. It’s been a fascinating year, let’s hope the next is full of promise. We will see you in 2025!
Happy reading
The CPN Team
Editor JOHNNY DOBBYN JOHN LEVICK cpn@hamerville.co.uk
Advertising Manager MATTHEW BOASE mboase@hamerville.co.uk
Group Manager ROB GILHAM rgilham@hamerville.co.uk
Magazine Designer DONNA BOOTH
Production Assistant CLAIRE PICTON
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DEALER DUO FOR SANY
SANY UK IS EXPANDING ITS DEALER NETWORK WITH THE APPOINTMENT OF TWO NEW AUTHORISED DEALERSSOUTHWEST HANDLING LTD AND SANDHILL PLANT.
both share our passion for quality and customer service. With their expertise, we are confident that our customers will
IN THE FAMILY
expanding with the appointment of a new team in the southwest of England. Having already seen a strong performance from its
MARUBENI-KOMATSU HAS APPOINTED JOHNSONS OF CHEADLE TO COVER THE STAFFORDSHIRE REGION. JOHNSONS WILL BE OFFERING THE FULL RANGE OF KOMATSU UTILITY MACHINES AND AGRICULTURAL SPECIFICATION WHEEL LOADERS. THE KOMATSU UTILITY RANGE INCLUDES MINI AND MIDI EXCAVATORS, WHEELED EXCAVATORS, SKID STEERS AND WHEEL LOADERS.
Director Gary Johnson said: “Myself and the team at Johnsons of Cheadle are delighted to be working alongside MarubeniKomatsu. We are excited by the prospect of what the future holds, particularly offering our customers the high-quality machines that Komatsu is renowned for.”
Johnsons is a 29-year-old family run business which prides itself on sales and service support. It has two depots in Staffordshire with a team of trained service technicians supported by a dedicated parts facility to deliver prompt and effective support.
to expand on its product range and service support in the future.
i
HILLHEAD 26
THE NEXT EDITION OF THE MUCH-LOVED QUARRYING, CONSTRUCTION AND RECYCLING EXHIBITION WILL TAKE PLACE FROM 23–25 JUNE 2026 AT HILLHEAD QUARRY, BUXTON, THE ORGANISERS HAVE ANNOUNCED.
With this year’s event attracting more than 19,500 trade visitors and featuring 600 exhibitors, the world’s biggest working quarrying exhibition once again raised the ante, showcasing a plethora of new products, cutting-edge technologies, and innovative trends that promise to shape the future of the industry.
With the 2026 dates now confirmed, demand for the next show is expected to be very high. New enquiries to exhibit should be directed to event manager Harvey Sugden on tel: +44 (0)115 945 4377; or email: harvey.sugden@qmj.co.uk.
For more information
WWW.RDR.LINK/CAX002 i
WWW.RDR.LINK/CAX003 i
continue to be the best performing product this year, ahead of wheeled loaders, which are 21% behind sales last year. The four highest volume products account for between 85% to 90% of total sales. Within this, crawler excavators are the weakest so far, showing a 26% shortfall in sales this year.
TECH TALKS AT PLANTWORX
For more information
WWW.RDR.LINK/CAX004 i
PHOENIX RISES AGAIN
PHOENIX HIRE AND SALES, ALONG WITH SISTER COMPANY SURVEY SAFETY & TRAINING, HAS BEEN SOLD TO FTH HIRE GROUP.
Operating from eight locations across Wales, with its head office in Cwmbran, Phoenix was founded in 2008 and specialises in construction plant and equipment hire and sales, employing more than 90 staff.
Survey Safety & Training, meanwhile, manages training operations and is based in Pontypridd.
The acquirer, Farnborough Tool Hire Group (FTH), supplies customers across the south of England, with an additional hub in Airdrie, Lanarkshire. Adding Phoenix to the group enables FTH to expand its geographical footprint.
“The opportunity to bring another well-established business into the FTH family allows us to create a foothold in the Welsh market, continuing to serve a loyal customer base in and around South Wales, adding operational strength to support the wider geographic region,” explained Gerry Marsh, acquisitions and development director at FTH.
THE COUNTDOWN TO THE SIXTH EDITION OF PLANTWORX, HOSTED BY THE CEA, HAS OFFICIALLY BEGUN, ACCORDING TO ITS ORGANISERS. FROM 23RD TO 25TH SEPTEMBER 2025, THE NEWARK SHOWGROUND, A NEW VENUE FOR PLANTWORX, WILL BE THE HUB FOR THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AND TECHNOLOGY. WITH AN ANTICIPATED 400 EXHIBITORS AND OVER 15,000 VISITORS, THIS IS THE MUST-ATTEND EVENT FOR PROFESSIONALS LOOKING TO STAY AHEAD IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY.
Major names like Takeuchi, RSP UK Suction Excavators Ltd, SANY Heavy Machinery UK Ltd, Sunward, Avant Techno, XCMG, Hydrema, Liugong, Mecalac, Kubota, Steelwrist, Hidromek, Rototilt, Worsley Plant, Merlo, Manitou, National Highways, and many more are already confirmed. These companies will showcase their machinery through live demonstrations, providing an up-close look at how they tackle the industry’s everyday challenges.
Simon Frere-Cook, PlantWorx event director, commented: “Technology is advancing faster than ever, and PlantWorx 2025 is where these innovations come to life. We’ve designed this event to ensure that whether you’re a contractor, operator, or business owner, you’ll leave with insights and practical knowledge that can transform your operations. It’s about preparing for the future as much as seeing what’s available today.”
For more information, please
For more information
WWW.RDR.LINK/CAX005 i
FURTHER EXPANSION FOR MERLO
DUNRAVE PLANT SERVICES IS THE LATEST APPOINTEE TO THE MERLO CONSTRUCTION DEALER NETWORK, MARKING AN IMPORTANT STEP IN THE MANUFACTURER’S STRATEGIC EXPANSION.
“This appointment symbolises Merlo UK’s commitment to providing our construction sector customers with strong and comprehensive coverage across Southeast Wales and Herefordshire,” commented Owen Buttle, national sales manager at Merlo UK. “We are delighted to welcome Dunrave to the Merlo dealer network.”
“We believe that construction equipment should help you work smarter, not harder, and Merlo continuously improves and innovates its product offerings,” said Nick Cook, managing director of Dunrave. “Joining the Merlo dealer network allows us to enhance our product range and provide our customers with even greater value, innovative products and exceptional service. We look forward to a successful partnership.”
FILTER TIPS
WITH ITS UPDATED, INTERACTIVE GUIDE, MANN+HUMMEL IS MAKING IT EASY FOR CUSTOMERS TO QUICKLY FIND VARIOUS FILTERS FOR TOP EXCAVATOR MODELS. THE GUIDE INCLUDES AROUND 200 EXCAVATORS FROM THE LARGEST 13 MANUFACTURERS ON THE EUROPEAN MARKET AND IS NOW AVAILABLE TO DOWNLOAD IN THE SERVICE SECTION OF THE MANN-FILTER WEBSITE.
The company claims a big market coverage of 80%, which ensures that a high-quality filter is available for almost all common excavator models in accordance with the requirements of the respective vehicle manufacturer. With just a few clicks, customers can find the appropriate filter for the excavator in question, including technical information, installation instructions and a 360˚ view of the product.
For more information
WWW.RDR.LINK/CAX008 i
For more information
WWW.RDR.LINK/CAX009 i
SPIRIT OF ‘68
A lonely former Soviet army base in the Czech Republic saw Develon stage its first demo days, hosting over 600 customers to the event. CPN was there.
The drizzly, dog days of summer – the end of September to be precise – saw 600 customers and press undertake a magical mystery tour through the Czech countryside as guests of Develon, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, which was hosting its first demo days under its new(ish) name.
The mystery deepened on nearing the demo site as the approach road was flanked by, first, burnt out tanks, then artillery pieces and, finally, we were confronted by a rusting helicopter and a grounded MIG fighter jet.
As above, the unusual location was an abandoned Soviet army base, established along with two others nearby, in response to (then) Czechoslovakia’s nascent freedom movement and mass protests in 1968.
As the current owner put it, not at all ironically: “We were very lucky in 1968 when
the Russians sent 50,000 aides to Czechia to help cure us from the infection of western democracy.” His father bought the site lock, stock and barrel – including all the armour and thousands of rounds of ammunition (since donated to Ukraine) – when the Soviet Union collapsed; and now he and his dad use it to display their collection of military vehicles and vintage cars.
Autonomous first
The spirit of ‘68 could be felt on the day as Develon followed the Czech tradition of asserting independence and free thinking with the introduction of a number of new machines among the 25 available for testing.
Almost certainly the highlight of the visit was the first demonstration of autonomous equipment from a new collaboration between
Develon and Gravis Robotics. The partnership aims to combine both companies’ expertise in AI-powered excavation and construction equipment technology to accelerate the
development of safe, productive, sustainable and predictive autonomous excavation solutions.
Also appearing for the first time was a new aftermarket 3D machine control solution for the Develon DX225LC-7X ‘smart’ crawler excavator, jointly developed by Develon and Leica Geosystems.
The excavator features full electric hydraulic (FEH) technology and an integrated 2D machine guidance and machine control system as standard equipment. In order to enhance this efficiency, the two companies have worked together to offer the Leica MC1 3D machine guidance system as a retrofit, specifically engineered to integrate seamlessly with the Develon 2D sensors and calibrations on the DX225LC-7X.
The new DD130-7 model is Develon’s first foray into the European dozer market. One of the biggest differences between the DD130-7 and other dozer brands, claims the company, is the visibility the DD130-7 provides of the machine’s dozer blade. To facilitate this, the front engine compartment offers a narrower design
“... the highlight of the visit was the first demonstration of autonomous equipment...”
and this is combined with several other features to make it easier for operators to see their work.
Another premiere was the new 4x4 version of the DA45-7 articulated dump truck (ADT).
The model is intended to compete with rigid dump trucks (RDTs) in the 40-tonne class and complements the current market-leading range of Stage V compliant 6x6 ADTs from Doosan, which includes the DA30-7 and DA45-7 models with payloads of 28 and 41 tonne, respectively.
Minis galore
Other new machines that were available for the first time included the DX10Z-7 1 tonne zero tail swing mini excavator, which provides improved performance compared to the previous DX10Z model it replaces, as does the
DX19-7 1.9 tonne conventional Stage V compliant mini excavator. Complementing these, the 2 tonne DX20ZE-7 electric mini excavator combines low noise and zero emissions with the features and performance enhancements that are found on the next-generation DX-7 series family of mini excavators.
Other machines on show included the latest versions of the crawler excavator range up to 53 tonne and the Develon DL-7 wheel loader range. The updated mid-range machines in the DL-7 range were represented by the DL250-7 model, presenting new features soon to be available throughout the DL-7 range.
Completing the array of firsts were the DL80 and DL85 compact wheel loaders.
TRIPLE TREAT
Nestled in a small industrial state on the western edge of the New Forest – and not 10 minutes away from another similar manufacturer also beginning with ‘M’ – is the UK headquarters of giant French telehandler company Manitou.
The business had invited CPN – and its stablemate publication Professional Builder – to view its MRT (Manitou Rotary Telehandler) range, with a particular emphasis on the relatively recent electric edition, the MRTe.
The MRTs are divided into two sub-ranges –the Vision and the Vision+. The Vision range, without wishing to sound derogatory, is the more basic of the two, comprising four machines all weighing in at 13.3, 14.1, 14.9 and 15.9 tonnes, respectively. Maximum capacity across the range is 4.5 tonnes and lifting heights range from 16m to 25m, with maximum reaches varying from 13m to 20m.
Stabilisers are rapid deploy and – depending on the model – are simple fixed folding or spider. The MRT Visions’ Deutz Euro V engines come in a choice of 75hp, or 116hp for more power and the ability to drive up to 25mph on the road.
The Vision+ range comprises six machines, between 18 and 24 tonnes depending on model. Maximum capacity is either 6 or 7 tonnes. Reaches vary between 18 and 28m and lifting heights between 22 and 35m. Outriggers are a patented, telescopic scissor design that allows
for partial deployment in the event of narrow sites or obstructions. Engines are Yanmar Euro V, with HPs ranging from 156 up to 211.
The newest member of the MRT family is the 118 tonne MRTe 100% electric or hybrid telehandler. With a maximum capacity of six tonnes, the two models have lift heights of either 22 or 26m, with maximum reaches of 18 or 22m, respectively.
Featuring many of the innovations of its ICE stablemates, what makes the MRTe most versatile is the choice of ‘fuel systems.’ In the 100% electric iteration, an 11kW on-board charger can be charged in 4.5 hours, while the 22kW on-board option can do the same job in two hours 15 minutes. There is also an option of a 22kW AC/ 60kW DC fast charge set up. The battery lives in a compartment to the side of the vehicle – and there are two! The MRTe’s standard range, with a single battery is in the region of four hours. With two batteries installed, that range doubles to up to eight hours.
However, in the hybrid version, one of the compartments is occupied by a heat engine that recharges the battery and allows for, effectively, continuous operation.
Machines apart, telehandlers are all about, as Manitou is at pains to point out, attachments. It’s the tool carrying capacity that makes these – any, for that matter – telehandlers real three-in-one machines: telescopic, basket and suspended load capable.
There are six standard attachments – chipped for attachment recognition –
associated with the MRT range: a floating fork carriage, a six or 7.2 tonne hydraulic winch, a basked, two-hook jib, a jib-with-winch and an aerial jib (JIB 2) that works in the negative (to6.4m) as well as the positive.
Most recently, the company has worked with Westech to develop a bespoke version of the CS750 pruning grapple saw, compatible with four of the Vision+ range. Fully homologated by Manitou, the saw includes auto attachment recognition and driving remote control as standard, allowing for precise control from safe distances to include machine transmission, steering, stabilisers and boom via proportional joysticks.
For more information about the MRT range, please WWW.RDR.LINK/CAX 035
For more information about the PRGSA 750 range, please WWW.RDR.LINK/CAX 036
CPN enjoyed a day in the New Forest with Manitou, taking time to walk round the MRT telehandler collection.
It might be winter, but nothing stops him. Some say he has hydraulic fluid in his veins, others that he likes a bit of Adblue in his coffee. All we know is that we call him The Dig. This month he tackles a Takeuchi
TONNES OF FUN
The market for legally towable mini excavators continues to be an important sector for manufacturers and contractors alike and the choice for end users continues to expand at a pace.
Takeuchi’s latest addition to its 3-Series mini excavator line-up is the two-tonne class TB320, which is described by the manufacturer as a combination of mini excavator and a tool carrier supplied with a high-spec configuration.
The TB320, which made its first public UK appearance during Hillhead in July, slots into the range between the ever popular 1.9 tonne TB219 and the 2.5-tonne TB225 and is sure to appeal to owner/operators in particular.
CPN was given access to one of the first examples to be sold into the UK market and travelled to Hereford for a “hands-on” experience.
Taking a walk around the new machine, and it features all the new styling that we have become accustomed to with the 3-Series models, somehow softer and more appealing to the eye, with more rounded edges than the previously angular look of the 2-Series models. The machine can be supplied with either a canopy, or in this instance the fully heated cab version.
Popping the all-steel rear bonnet, which is assisted in raising by a gas strut, and we discover the popular EU Stage V emissions compliant, 3-cylinder Yanmar 3TNV70 diesel engine which offers a power output rating of 19kW (25.48hp) @2500rpm, with a rated maximum torque of 52.7Nm. There is a lot under the bonnet, but very neatly packaged for good access including the hydraulic oil tank and filler point, diesel, air and engine oil filters,
radiator cap and associated expansion bottle, and of course the dipstick, all of which are very easy to reach for daily and routine maintenance. A sight tube gauge for the hydraulic oil level is provided within the rear nearside panel.
Round the corner on the offside rear, a panel door opens outwards to reveal the cooling pack for cleaning and a primary diesel filter/water separator again, easy to reach. Further along and a small door opens out to
reveal the diesel tank filler point, this also features a secondary fuel gauge so you can monitor the fuel level status when filling up, a useful feature that can prevent overfilling and spillages.
Down below we find a dedicated storage place for the grease gun, which is ideal, as no self-respecting operator wants to be carrying a dirty grease gun in the cab. I was wondering where the battery was, but following further investigation, I discovered it is located in the cab, below the seat in the lockable opening compartment.
The machine also features the extending/retractable undercarriage which when fully retracted gives the machine a total width of 980mm, which is ideal for negotiating narrow gateways and the like, but when extended fully out the footprint is 1370mm, which when combined with the longer than average in this class track length of 1570mm, offers a stable and sure-footed working platform. Naturally the dozer blade features extension wings which are simply attached by easy to fit pins so that the blade matches the overall track width.
Standard rubber tracks are 230mm wide and the three lower track rollers are triple flange designed, which improve the ride and help to retain the tracks in position to prevent de-tracking.
At the business end the TB320 loses out slightly compared to the TB219 in terms of
overall dig depth and reach at ground level, with a maximum dig depth of 2,370mm and a maximum reach at ground level of 4,035mm, with the latter achieving 2,520mm and 4,175mm respectively.
However, this machine, which has an
“...I was invited to spend some time in the new machine, something I always relish when it's red and grey...”
on the cab roof and one on the boom, additional lights can be specified from your dealer at time of order for those who require even more illumination.
Climbing into the cab and we notice the familiar automotive design and styling that we have come to expect from the 3-Series, starting with the comfortable seat emblazoned with the distinctive Takeuchi lettering on the backrest, this machine was so new it still had the plastic seat coverings intact!
I love the simplicity of the interior on the Takeuchi, on the right-hand side there are just a couple of rocker switches, for wiper/screen wash and the fan switch for heat/cool air supply, there is no air-conditioning option on this model, but a valve switch is provided in the cab to turn off the supply of hot water from the cooling system during summer months.
Double sliding windows are provided on the offside for the fresh air fans, and the front screen raises up in the traditional manner for
storage in the cab roof, so plenty of options for air supply and of course communication with any ground crew.
The dozer blade lever is also situated in the familiar spot on the offside to the right of the arm rest, and a good old traditional manual throttle lever is provided behind it. The allimportant in cab radio is a standard fitment providing MW/FM frequencies and is also USB and Bluetooth compatible so you can pair your mobile phone to it.
To the offside rear of the cab, we find that other staple addition, the cup holder, and a decent sized screen wash bottle.
To the front and we get the familiar Takeuchi full colour multi-function display monitor which provides all the feedback the operator needs to know such as fluid temperatures, fuel levels, hours worked and other warning lights.
The floor is a clean-cut affair, and easy to sweep out at the end of a shift, with just the left-right rocker foot pedal for the offset boom located on the far right-hand side, a footrest is provided on the left-hand side. Traditional T-Bar track levers are provided, but I noticed in this instance the usual button for the two-speed tracking isn’t on the right-hand track lever as we are used to, but is instead replaced by a round dump pedal on the floor operated by the heel of your boot.
I was invited to spend some time in the seat of the new machine, something I always relish especially when it’s red and grey. I was given the key, which coincidentally is the TSS (Takeuchi Security System) immobiliser key that comes as standard, and with a flick of the switch the machine came to life.
A little warm up followed as I surveyed my surroundings, then lowering the isolation lever on the left-hand joystick console I was ready to work. Cranking up the trusty hand throttle I was greeted by the gentle thrum of the Yanmar powerpack.
I tug on the right-hand joystick and we were off, no fancy or over complicated work modes or anything to ponder over, just get straight to work. A pile of soil was made available which had overgrown with grass, so I set about de-vegging.
As we have come to expect from the Takeuchi machines, it was super smooth on the hydraulics and a delight to operate. However, it was initially hard to break into the ground which I put down to the extra build height on the Hill tilt hitch, that’s a compromise with using those couplers, but the benefits would far outweigh any disadvantages in my opinion, and once I got the soil loosened up it was a lot easier.
Having said that I would imagine loading a high sided truck could be tricky with the Hill coupler too as the geometry wouldn’t help with soil retention in the bucket at the maximum dump height of 2725mm.
The machine had plenty of grunt while using the dozer blade as I set about making a level platform on top of the heap having removed the grass, the longer track frame was a real benefit in terms of stability and keeping the tracks on the ground. Even with the weight of the tilt hitch the machine behaved itself even with a full bucket throughout the full arc of movements, even at full stretch with a bucketful which surprised me a lot.
The offset boom arrangement enables 78o of movementto the left and 49o to the right while the visibility in all directions is excellent.
With a slew speed of 9.5rpm this 2-tonne is lively enough and with a top travel speed of 4.5km/h it doesn’t hang around, the whole machine was majestic in operation as we have come to expect from these top-quality Japanese-built machines.
I enjoyed my time on this little powerhouse, which is sure to appeal to owner operators and specialist end users alike.
A TTACHMENTS
BOBCAT SOLVES ATTACHMENT ISSUES
Attachments product manager, Katinka Kincses is responsible for product development, marketing, additional services and training.
“I view my department as the voice of the customer. We map out their wishes and conduct field research to develop new attachments and new functions. We have two important principles.
“The first is the fact that job sites are becoming smaller and that the demand for compact machines and compact attachments is increasing.
“In addition, ease of use is becoming increasingly important. Many companies are struggling with staff shortages, which means you need to offer alternatives to human labour.”
As a result, Bobcat’s machines and attachments are designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, ensuring that even young or inexperienced operators can work effectively with minimal training.
This focus on simplicity doesn’t come at the expense of productivity — advanced automation features help maintain efficiency. Take the modern grader, for instance: equipped with cutting-edge technology, it can perform many tasks almost autonomously, reducing the need for highly skilled operators while keeping
In the current market attachments are vital to the success of most machines, particularly in the compact sector. At Bobcat, Katinka Kincses says what machines need which attachments, as she explains to Construction Plant News.
output high.
Attachments are also vital to customers’ businesses, Kincses believes, enabling them to maximize the versatility and value of their machines. For most operators, she argues, investing in a multi-purpose tool carrier is a more practical choice than purchasing specialist equipment.
“A customer should only consider a specialist machine if they are performing the same task all day, every day,” she explains. “For example, a ride-on mower might be perfect for maintaining a golf course, but in most other
cases, a multi-purpose tool carrier is the better investment. With the right attachments, you can take on more projects, work throughout the year, and make better use of your machine.”
She points to a common trend among new customers: “Often, they start with a machine and three or four attachments. As they realize how much more they can do, they gradually expand their collection, adding another three or four attachments over time. This approach allows them to adapt to different tasks and get the most out of their equipment.”
Yet customers cannot simply choose any compact machine and expect the attachments to compensate for mismatched capabilities. The machine itself must be suited to the core demands of the job, with attachments fine-tuning its versatility and efficiency.
“We supply one of the most extensive ranges of attachments, enabling operators to handle common tasks across construction, landscaping, agriculture, demolition, recycling, and material handling,” explains Kincses.
A TTACHMENTS
“However, selecting the right machine for the job remains crucial. Attachments enhance a machine’s capabilities, but they can’t fully compensate for choosing the wrong base machine.”
As she points out, the choice of machine should be tailored to the work environment and specific tasks. “For example, a skid-steer loader is strong and agile, making it ideal for firm ground. But on sensitive terrain where minimal soil disturbance is important, a compact track loader is a better choice. Similarly, power requirements must be considered. Heavy-duty tasks like using a forestry mulcher, wheel saw, or snowplow demand machines with high-powered hydraulics.”
“No one machine does it all,” Kincses says. “The key is matching the right machine to the task and equipping it with the right attachments.”
Bobcat’s attachment range spans multiple industries and includes everything from buckets and pallet forks to specialized tools like concrete mixers, tree transplanters, and graders. The range is also designed for compatibility,
enabling attachments to work across different machines.
Ease of use is a priority in Bobcat’s design philosophy. The company’s Power Bob-Tach system, for instance, allows the operator to connect and disconnect non-hydraulic attachments without even leaving the cab. Another useful feature is the speed management system that allows the travel speed to be adjusted independently from the engine speed, allowing for higher productivity.
Then there is the attachment control device (ACD) built into the attachment. It is a CANbus system that controls the communication between the machine and the attachment.
Thanks to the ACD, the machine recognizes the attachment and automatically adjusts the settings of, among other things, the joystick controls and the hydraulics.
The driver can adjust the settings on the display in the machine and receive an overview of the operating hours, performance and status of the attachment. If an operator uses remote control to work their machine, all functions for controlling the attachment are also automatically available.
“For operators using remote controls, all the attachment functions are integrated and ready to use,” Kincses adds. “It’s about making everything as seamless as possible.”
Kincses cautions against mixing and matching attachments from different manufacturers, emphasizing the importance of compatibility and reliability.
“By sticking with one manufacturer, you avoid situations where different suppliers blame each other, leaving you with unresolved problems. It’s also a matter of ensuring the machine and attachment are optimized for safety and performance.”
Looking to the future, Kincses promises that tomorrow’s attachments will reflect operators’ needs, continuing the trends that she has identified. “We’re working on attachments that address the challenges operators face today — compact solutions, more automation, and tools that make the job even easier.”
GRAPPLE FANS
Zero-landfill waste management company, Maia Waste, has landed the first Cat G308 demolition and sorting grapple in the UK. Support from the Finning enabled itto get its hands on the brand-new machine and work tool immediately upon release, helping the companydramatically cut its operating costs.
Helen Day, building construction products product manager at Finning, said: “We were in constant contact with both the team at Caterpillar and Maia Waste to ensure smooth progression of the order and timely receipt of the machine and work tool. The Cat G318, the big brother to the Cat G308, is an extremely popular tool across general construction industries, so the introduction of the smaller unit means a paralleled capability is now available for smaller machines and operations.”
The G308 is claimed to be ideally suited to tough applications and features a slim design with specially designed pins, vertically perforated side plates, and a robust bolt-on cutting edge. It has been designed for matched worktool and machine performance, and is also the widest demolition and sorting grab in the class. Maia Waste was also able to take advantage of a special financial plan through Cat Finance and, with Finning support, was able to secure the best lending terms that are specially tailored to them.
Paul Noble, managing director at Maia Waste, added: “Thanks to the finance deal we
“...It’s important that we offer the right aftercare and financial options to suit our customers, so that they feel supported in their purchases. Having been in contact with Maia Waste over the span of a few months about the acquisition, we were able to help achieve their cost saving goals...”
Waste management business looks forward to reduced operating costs with new Cat attachment acquisition. CPN reports
were able to get our hands on the machine and tool as soon as it was available in the UK. Plus, we’ve managed to save a couple of thousand pounds by hiring a machine and grapple in until the new one was available. We’re so pleased, we’re already in talks with Finning to buy a Cat 302.7CR following the success of this deal.”
“It’s important that we offer the right aftercare and financial options to suit our customers, so that they feel supported in their purchases. Having been in contact with Maia Waste over the span of a few months about the acquisition, we were able to help achieve their
cost saving goals,”continued Day. All Cat work tools are designed and manufactured to work seamlessly with its machines. Due to this, a customer will experience efficiency through optimal fuel burn and maximum productivity when a Cat attachment is married to a Cat machine, resulting in reduced maintenance, shorter ROI and, ultimately, a high residual value of the assets.
A TTACHMENTS TILT FOR THE TOP
The
growing acceptance of tilt couplers is good news for business. CPN talks to two companies who are seeing this popularity turn
lant and tool hire companies are benefiting from the ever-increasing demand for flexible machines, and none more so than Bow Plant Sales and sister company Arrow Plant and Tool Hire.
The companies, which are based in the Arrow Valley in Herefordshire, have experienced a record number of sales to date this year of tilt couplers, each one a Tefra tilt from Northern Ireland-based Hill Engineering.
The businesses, which have sites in Leominster, Kington and Bromyard, have sold seven Tefra tilts so far (three for Takeuchi’s TB290 compact nine-tonne excavator), and are currently waiting for an eighth to arrive. This is four times as many as usual.
Ollie Hughes, who 10 years ago joined the company his father Martin founded with Peter Jones 35 years ago, said: “Tilt hitches have become increasingly popular this year and we have sold seven up until now, and have regular enquiries.
“I think there is an ever-increasing demand for machines to be more versatile and these Tefra tilt hitches certainly fit the bill, especially with operators running tree shears - they really seem to like them. I suppose they are a “halfway house” to a full tilt rotator but are a fraction of the price.”
Speed and efficiency
Hill’s Tefra tilt combines the award-winning Tefra coupler with the HKS extra tilt power actuator for excavators up to 20 tonnes. Its simple and robust design comprises just three moving parts while the actuator is self-lubricating and essentially maintenance free.
Its range of motion (up to 180°) makes it more productive, while changing a bucket takes about 10 seconds and is all done by the operator from the cab, compared to traditional couplers which take a couple of people a couple of minutes.
Unless otherwise requested by customers due to specialist configurations, Bow Plant Sales and Arrow Plant and Tool Hire have only ever
“I think there is an ever-increasing demand for machines to be more versatile and these Tefra tilt hitches certainly fit the bill, especially with operators running tree shears - they really seem to like them. I suppose they are a “halfway house” to a full tilt rotator but are a fraction of the price.”
fitted Hill’s Tefra quick hitches.
“There were a couple of Takeuchi machines that Hill didn’t offer hitches for, but I think now they have it all pretty well covered. As to why, I would guess this was something to do with Takeuchi running them as their OEM hitches. We haven’t looked anywhere else since,” said Ollie.
“In fact, we have just had a Takeuchi TB180 nine-tonne machine come back as a part exchange, with over 9,000 hours on the clock, and the hitch still works like the day it was fitted!”
All machines above two tonnes in Arrow’s hire fleet are fitted with Hill’s Tefra hitches. The company uses a few itself and the rest are all for sale, whether they are fitted to a new Takeuchi excavator or for upgrading a customer’s used machine.
“We are always happy to fit these hitches but, as mentioned, Hill’s tilt hitches are a real hit with people running tree shears on machines. They allow the tree shear to be properly aligned with the tree which increases safety and efficiency.
“The design of the tilt motor on these hitches also means there is no sag in the tilt whilst working under load, which is a major benefit over some of its rivals. It means the operator can trust the hitch not to move whilst carrying out some precise jobs,” said Ollie.
King of the Hill
Most of Arrow’s hitches are the standard Tefra model from Hill, which five years ago were probably fitted to 50% of the machines they sold. Now it is getting on towards 90% of
machines sold.
Ollie said: “I think this is mainly down to their ease of use and customers wanting to maximise efficiency and be able to change attachments in seconds without leaving the seat. But we do also have customers that work on sites that insist on hydraulic hitches for health and safety reasons.”
He added: “Our customers are always happy when we tell them their machine will be fitted with a Hill hitch. I think they just know the brand to be reliable and simple. We do also get the comment that they’re just easier to hitch onto buckets, and when you’re doing that at various times throughout the day, I suppose that is pretty much what it boils down to, being user friendly.
“When a customer goes ahead with a Hill hitch it gives us peace of mind that it won’t give any issues and we won’t be out to site many times to sort small problems, which all costs us time and money. On the very rare occasion we have had a problem, Hill has been great –giving us advice, getting us parts or even sending complete hitches overnight to keep the customer’s machine working. This is why when it comes to hydraulic hitches, Hill are the only people we turn to. The service really is second to none.”
A TTACHMENTS
MADE TO MEASURE
A6.3m3 high tip bucket is the star of the show at Avonmouth and Royal Portbury Docks. The custom-built bucket by Ulrich Attachments was ordered by Lucy Ellis, project engineer (procurement) in order to solve a wasteful handling problem.
Ulrich national sales manager Emma Pierce explains: “We redesigned the 6.3m3 bucket for them to better suit the application and the material they are working with. The material is a finely ground maize powder, and they were finding they were losing a lot of material over the sides of the bucket.
“We looked at the design and went back with a solution but they needed to see the leading edge of the bucket for health and safety reasons. So, our design team worked closely with Lucy and myself to come up with a new design to meet these needs and they ordered the bucket based on this new design.”
Lucy adds: “The bucket was designed to allow maximum capacity with good visibility over the top. It was an adjustment from an original design sent and has performed well, with no issues.”
Lucy may have inherited Ulrich Attachments as a supplier from her predecessor but the relationship has gone from strength to strength,
to such an extent that this year could be a record one for the partnership.
A custom-built bucket by Ulrich Attachments is making life easier at The Bristol Port Company. CPN gets the lowdown.
The Bristol Port Company has purchased 24 attachments from Ulrich in the past 10 years.
Most of the buckets are the high tip highdischarge buckets designed for light material or
stone re-handling into high sided trucks and hoppers. Ulrich has been at the forefront of the development of these, and at Bristol Port, they are complemented by a pusher blade designed to reduce areas where grain may become trapped or lost, ensuring the maximum grain stays in the store. The attachments are typically used across a range of front-end loaders.
Lucy adds: “I have continued to purchase Ulrich Attachments as we have had good performance from them and the price is competitive. I have also had good support technically and from the sales personnel.
“We have used a mix of suppliers in the past and we do tender out work and review costs and design before making a decision. But our service contact at Ulrich, Drew, is very helpful, and we have had a positive experience overhaul with them.”
Top grades
“... twin pivoting blades can cut, carry, trim, spread and finish in one pass...”
operated in tension making it near impossible to damage them. A curved moldboard which is deepest in class, along with no centre pivot reduces material segregation and delivers competitive response times.
To ensure maximum compatibility with all major 3D control systems including Topcon MC Mobile, the company also provides premade brackets and harnesses to simplify installation, or for 2D control SharpGrade’s own QuadGrade control system can be operated from an on-board display, mobile phone or tablet, and for exacting accuracy with grade matching or string line work, the optional Sonic Tracker can be attached to either side of the machine.
A TTACHMENTS
SOME BEAM
Sunbelt Rentals has recently taken delivery of a revolutionary new modular lifting beam that it says represents a significant step change for the lifting industry.
Designed and manufactured by Britlift, the Multilifter ML180 is said to be the most versatile modular beam on the market. It can be used as an under beam, a lifting beam or H-frame with 16 tonne safe working load (SWL), or a semispreader up to 23 tonnes.
Gary Joyice, director of lifting at Sunbelt Rentals, said: “This is a game changer for the lifting industry. It offers more versatility than anything we’ve seen before - it is like the Meccano of lifting beams. The ability to quickly and easily configure it as multiple products will be warmly welcomed by lifting professionals and construction contractors.”
Sunbelt was so confident in the product that
it placed an order based on the preliminary designs by Britlift. It has taken delivery of the first consignment and has already supplied them to some of its biggest customers.
“The feedback we have received from our clients is impressive,” said Gary. “One of the common challenges occurring on site is when they realise, they don’t have the right beam for a specific lift, which leads to delays while one is sourced. The Multilifter minimises this downtime because it can be quickly reconfigured.”
Britlift designed the Multilifter ML180 to be configured as a lifting beam, H-frame or lifting frame, under beam, cantilever/counterweight lifting beam, forklift lifting beam, lifting skid and more. Adaptors include various types of lifting points, excavator hooks, trunnions, multi-point lifting arms, and clamps, with more already in development. It offers far more versatility than existing modular beams, while retaining the key
benefits such as ease of transport and handling.
“Sunbelt Rentals challenged us to create something that could meet the broad needs of the major construction contractors working on some of the UK’s most demanding infrastructure projects,” said Liam Botting, managing director of Britlift. “The result of these discussions is the Multilifter ML180, a Swiss army knife for the lifting industry.
“Sunbelt’s support from concept to production is a fantastic endorsement of this product. Fundamentally it is one beam with multiple uses and infinite possibilities. It is an ideal product for the rental sector as its versatility means it should have exceptionally high utilisation rates.”
F LEET ADDITIONS
GENIE ASHBROOK
Ashbrook is expanding its fleet with 171 Genie machines to improve efficiency and meet the growing demand for sustainable, versatile access solutions.
The delivery, which started in March, includes GS E-Drive scissor lifts, electric rough-terrain scissor lifts, and Z and S boom lifts, chosen for their productivity and lower environmental impact.
“These Genie lifts align perfectly with our focus on sustainability and performance,” says managing director James Ashbrook. “Their
HOEFLON CADMAN CRANES
Aiming to boost its ability to tackle challenging lifting projects in confined spaces, Cadman Cranes is recruiting the Hoeflon C10 spider crane to its fleet.
“The Hoeflon C10 is a game-changer for confined space lifting, combining versatility and sustainability,” says managing director Matt Waddingham.
With a maximum lifting capacity of 4.0 tonnes, a vertical reach of 21m, and a radius of 19.8m, the compact 5.0-tonne crane is designed for precision in tight or hard-to-reach areas, indoors or outdoors. Hydraulically extendable tracks further improve its accessibility in difficult locations.
advanced technology and robust build give us the confidence to meet the diverse needs of our clients.”
The GS E-Drive scissor lifts are fully electric, offering high productivity and flexibility for tasks in both indoor and outdoor environments, including narrow spaces.
The rough-terrain scissor lifts, such as the GS-4069 RT, GS-4390 RT, and GS-5390 RT, are equipped with the Superdeck system, which provides extra platform space and weight capacity for challenging outdoor worksites.
To meet customer needs for environmentally friendly and heavy-duty applications, the company is buying hybrid FE and high-capacity
Xtra Capacity (XC) boom lifts. The Z-45 FE operates for a full workday in electric mode or an entire workweek in hybrid mode on a single fuel tank. The S-65 XC and S-85 XC telescopic booms offer maximum working heights of 21.81 m and 27.91 m, respectively, with platform capacities up to 454 kg.
All machines feature Genie Lift Connect telematics, enabling real-time monitoring and fleet management. This ensures Ashbrook maintains reliability and uptime for customers across industries including construction, events, and retail.
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But it is not just the crane’s close quarters agility that attracted Cadman’s attention says Waddingham.
“Its hybrid engine supports our commitment to reducing carbon emissions while offering our clients state-of-the-art lifting solutions.”
Running entirely on sustainable HVO fuel, like the rest of Cadman’s
fleet, the Hoeflon also operates on a direct feed 400V three-phase power supply, making it ideal for emission-free indoor use.
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F LEET ADDITIONS
LIEBHERR DAVIES CRANE HIRE
To meet the construction industry’s demand for larger and heavier lifts, Davies Crane Hire has acquired a Liebherr LTM 1650-8.1 – an eight-axle 700-tonne crane with a maximum hook height of 152m and a radius of 112m.
This is achieved through two telescopic boom lengths — a 54m basic boom that extends to 80m — along with a 90m luffing jib and Y-guying system.
“The introduction of the LTM 1650-8.1 into our fleet is the next step for the business as we venture into new markets,” says managing director Neil Davies. “It equips us to support customers with larger, more complex
JCB CHANDOS CIVIL ENGINEERING
To tackle increasingly demanding earthmoving projects, Chandos Civil Engineering has brought the JCB 370X tracked excavator – the largest and most powerful machine in JCB’s X Series range – into its fleet.
“The 370X is a game-changer for our lifting capabilities, especially as water attenuation tanks and larger culverts are becoming more common,” says Danny Molloy, civil engineering director and co-owner at Chandos.
“Culverts for handling larger volumes of water are also now a regular aspect of our work. With their sizes increasing, so does their weight and the 370X beats previous machines hands down for lifting capabilities.”
Powered by a Stage V compliant 8.9-litre, Cummins engine, it boasts a 14% power increase over the outgoing JCB JS370, with 240kW (322hp) available at just 1,700rpm. The engine delivers this maximum power within a reduced operating rev range, to increase fuel economy and reduce overall noise levels.
lifting projects.”
Supplied in Liebherr’s highest specification, the crane includes VarioBase for variable outrigger setup and VarioBallast for greater flexibility on site.
This latest acquisition follows the arrival of several other Liebherr models, including the LTM 1060-3.1, LTM 1090-4.2, and LTM 11105.2. Davies Crane Hire operates a fleet ranging from eight to 700 tonnes across its four locations in Carmarthen, Port Talbot, Milford Haven, and Cardiff.
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The new addition has already earned praise from Chandos operator Simon Finch. “I’ve got masses of room around me and I don’t feel claustrophobic as in some other machines. The controls are smooth and precise, and there is so much movement on the sticks and seat, you are able to get the right operating position with ease,” he says.
“Fuel efficiency is impressive too. We are currently using around 20 litres per hour. That’s well down on any other 40-tonne machine I have operated.”
Supplied by Gunn JCB, the excavator joins 85 other JCB machines in the Chandos fleet, which includes tracked excavators and cabbed site dumpers.
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CAT RS SKIPS
Looking for greater reliability and lower operating costs, RS Skips has replaced its mixed-brand fleet with five new Cat machines tailored for waste management operations.
The purchase includes two Cat 315 GC excavators, two Cat G318 sorting grapples, and a Cat MH 3022 material handler, all supported by a 36-month warranty, a 6,000-hour service programme, and full premier cover.
“We chose Cat equipment for its reliability and longevity, which are crucial for the demanding work in waste management,” says director Sukh Randhawa.
The new fleet replaces RS Skips’ previous mixed-brand machines, creating uniformity across its operations. The Cat 315 GC excavators and G318 grapples are designed for durability and performance, while the MH 3022 material handler delivers precision and efficiency for heavyduty recycling tasks.
Finning provided the machines and worked closely with RS Skips to tailor the package to its needs, a major selling point.
“The support from Finning has been excellent, ensuring we can reduce maintenance costs and maximise the efficiency of our recycling operation as part of our commitment to reducing landfill waste,” says Randhawa.
“We could recommend machines that would be the perfect fit for their operations and would save them money in the long run, taking into consideration fuel costs, servicing and reliability, and still have great residual value at the end of three years,” adds Ryan Trafford, territory account manager at Finning.
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PUTZMEISTER ADVANCED TRADITIONAL SCREEDING (ATS)
Advanced Traditional Screeding (ATS) is bolstering its capacity with a second Putzmeister Transmix truck, enabling the Fife-based flooring contractor to meet growing demand for thermal lightweight aggregate (TLA) insulation.
“The Transmix trucks offer the most controlled and economical method of delivering TLA, and we have the only two in Scotland,” says Jason Lister, managing director of ATS.
“Having the two vehicles releases the pressure on running multiple projects and the new truck will help us service our growing network of Tier 1 contractors.”
The 44-tonne vehicle, designed for pouring gap-free, flowing insulation, can handle up to 100 m3 a day and will serve clients across the UK from ATS’ Rosyth headquarters.
The £300,000 investment supports ATS’ position as one of Scotland’s leading suppliers of TLA, a non-combustible alternative for floors, roofs, and voids. The trucks mix to order on-site, reducing waste and eliminating the need for delivery by multiple vehicles.
“This investment puts us in the ideal position to support the growth we expect in the coming year,” Lister adds. “We can now schedule largescale insulation pours more efficiently while delivering superior quality and minimising environmental impact.”
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TRIME ONE STOP HIRE
One Stop Hire is continuing to expand its fleet of Trime equipment, adding a further 12 Trime X-ECO LED lighting towers to an earlier order this year for 43 Trime X-ECO auto start units.
“The demand for more robust and energy-efficient lighting has significantly increased,” says Liam Murphy, marketing coordinator at One Stop Hire. “Trime’s lighting towers offer excellent fuel savings, helping us and our clients reduce their carbon footprints.”
Designed for efficiency and sustainability, the lighting towers run on eco-friendly HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) fuel, a fossil-free paraffinic diesel that can reduce up to 90% of net CO2 emissions.
The company now operates more than 50 Trime X-ECO units, supporting construction sites, outdoor events, and infrastructure projects where reliable, highquality lighting is essential.
“We are also replacing older units in our fleet with these advanced models,” adds Murphy. “The Trime sets stand out for build quality, light output, and eco-friendly credentials. The focus on efficiency and reducing emissions made them the ideal choice.”
The Trime X-ECO LED features six 160W, multi-directionally adjustable LED floodlights powered by a safe 48V system. Its vertical hydraulic mast reaches a height of 8.5m, rotates 340°, and withstands wind speeds up to 110 km/h. Central lifting points and forklift pockets ensure safe handling and transport.
F LEET ADDITIONS
LIEBHERR STEEL WORK CONSTRUCTION (SWC)
Seeking a versatile and efficient lifting solution, Preston-based Steel Work Construction (SWC) selected its first Liebherr, the LTR 1100 telescopic crawler crane.
“The Liebherr LTR 1100 boasts impressive features, including seamless transportability and operational efficiency during on-site set up,” says managing director Ben Lee.
“The pick and carry capabilities enable the crawler crane to work where two mobile cranes normally would be needed. Its versatility also allows us to venture into different sectors, expanding our scope.”
Liebherr engineered the telescopic crawler crane with a focus on quick set-up times and enormous flexibility while maintaining its robust power, courtesy of its economic Liebherr four-cylinder engine. The 100-
TRIME JOHN SISK & SON
Engineered for sustainability and energy efficiency, the Trime X-Box static lighting towers and 6.0kVA Stage 5 generators are the latest of John Sisk & Son’s initiatives to boost sustainability.
Both the lighting towers and the generators are fully HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) compatible, while the generators feature auto start/stop technology, powering down when idle and restarting instantly when needed.
“These eco-friendly Trime X-Box static lighting towers are fitted with a timer option for improved energy efficiency,” says plant operations manager Barry Murphy. “That’s the good news. The bad news is they’ve already been sent to a new site down the country.”
The equipment was supplied by Dungannonbased Glendun Plant, one of Ireland’s foremost plant and machinery distributors.
tonne crane can be transported on two standard low loaders, the crane autonomously assembles on-site, significantly enhancing operational efficiency.
The LTR 1100 features a 52m telescopic boom that can be extended to any position and further enhanced with additional jibs, including a 2.9m assembly jib and a 10.8 to 19m double swing-away fly jib.
Now part of a 13-strong fleet of cranes, the LTR 1100 may be the first Liebherr but it will not be the last, according to Lee.
“We are looking forward to adding further Liebherr crawlers and mobile cranes to the fleet this year,” he says.
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Decorated with a painting of a curlew in a wetland setting across the full width its counterweight, WL Straughan & Son’s latest HD Hyundai 14tonne excavator has a more practical feature — a Rototilt tiltrotator.
SHAPING UP NICELY
The tiltrotator really speeds things up onsite, and you don’t have to relocate the machine as much,” says operator John Reed. “Once you get the hang of it, it’s really good for shaping features like islands and landscaping.”
And that feature is coming into its own as the HD Hyundai machine is currently working near a giant rock and soil sculpture called Northumberlandia, Lady of the North. Working on a reclamation contract at a former opencast mine, the excavator is creating wetland ponds and islands within new lakes, for birds and other wildlife to settle.
To accommodate the Rototilt, the excavator is equipped with a shorter 2.5m dipper arm and a Miller quick coupler for efficient attachment
changes. Like all of the company’s equipment, the HX140A L, is equipped with bio-oils to prevent any concerns in the event of spillage on sensitive soils.
Straughan has also specified a brightly painted ‘boxing ring’ of upper structure handrails, additional piping to power those attachments, additional work lights, flat beacons and 750mm track pads.
The firm, based in Bedlington, Northumberland, typically specialises in environmental projects, constructing tracks and paths, creating wildlife habitats and conservation works, alongside groundworks, civils projects and operated plant hire. Based on a farm, the family-run business also operates a green waste recycling company and an equestrian arena and livery stables.
WL Straughan has more than 25 excavators, from sub-1 tonne micros, through to a 15-tonne HX145A. The company also operates backhoe loaders, wheeled and tracked dumpers, dump trailers and a wide range of agricultural tractors and compact equipment. It even has a motorgrader, for forestry and windfarm access work. Half of the firm’s excavators are now HD Hyundai machines, supplied by local dealer Taylor & Braithwaite.
“We started buying Hyundais in 2014 and we’ve been changing three to four machines a year since then,” said director Gary Miller.
“We’ve tried them all, but we always come back to Hyundai as one of our preferred brands. The service from Taylor & Braithwaite is second to none and we’ve just never had any issues with the machines.”
RAISING ITS GAME
A leading regional tree management specialist says the power of its new Hinowa spider lift is helping it overcome the increasingly challenging working conditions its teams face due to climate change.
Lincolnshire Tree Services has invested in a Hinowa Lightlift 17.75 Performance IIIS tracked spider boom, citing it as the best machine in its class for tree work.
The platform’s compactness, reliability and ability to reach a large areas of tree canopies from just one position is highly valued by the company’s operatives, according to director Louise Allenby.
She adds thatas climate change is triggering more frequent of periods of heavy rain, creating increasingly difficult ground conditions, the extra traction delivered by its new Hinowa Lightlift 17.75 will also help it reach many trees it needs to work on.
“The Hinowa performs very well over poor
and wet ground, so we’ll still be able to do our work in the most difficult conditions. This is important as we do an increasing amount of storm damage work, which is also related to climate change.”
The new Hinowa Lightlift 17.75 is replacing an older version of the same platform.
“We selected the Lightlift 17.75 because it is so compact that it can get into all the awkward
spots we need to work in,” saysAllenby. “Also, Hinowas are so reliable that they are the go-to platforms in our industry.”
The company’s first preference is to work from platforms - it also operates a truck-mount platform - because it is safer than conventional rope access. The increasing prevalence of ash dieback in Lincolnshire also makes working from the Hinowa LL 17.75 spider lift essential.
The Hinowa Lightlift 17.75 Mk2 spider cherry picker has a maximum working height of 17.06m and an outreach of up to 7.5m.
The platform is just 790mm wide, 4529mm long and 1998mm high when stowed for tracking, allowing it to be moved though most garden gates and archways and along garden paths to reach the backs of houses.
The tracks can also be extended to 1086mm to support tracking across slopes or the sort of wet and unstable ground Lincolnshire Tree Services operatives are increasingly encountering.
An array of smart features, including twinspeed tracking and one button set up and stowplus safety features that prevent the platform from being used in potentially risky conditionsgreatly enhance productivity and help keep operatives safe.
Help is at hand
Affordable, accessible and userfriendly 3D machine control technology can provide the helping hand needed for smaller businesses to be successful, according to Unicontrol.
Digital technology is boosting productivity, accuracy and efficiency in construction, in much the same way the move away from spades and pulleys to heavy outdoor machinery transformed earthmoving. However, numerous companies have been locked out by complex, expensive 3D machine control solutions and vendor lock-ins. Smaller businesses have been left behind, finding themselves on a burning platform and running out of time.
With easy-to-use technology that can be retrofitted to existing machinery for earthmoving tasks, operators can be up and running almost immediately. 3D machine control can cut rework costs, improve quality and prevent downtime.
Digital construction technologies are swiftly moving from ‘nice to have’ to ‘must have’ and SMEs that fail to overcome barriers and embrace new technology get left behind. Research from digital platform Gridfox suggests 84% of construction SMEs struggle to keep up with the digital spending of larger organizations and half claim it has restricted growth.
3D machine control helps operators by making earthmoving tasks more precise and preventing rework. It uses GPS antennas mounted on the machine with sensors on each
moving part to closely monitor the specific environment and task in real-time.
With a unique user-friendly interface designed with operators in mind, Unicontrol’s 3D machine control technology can be used by less skilled workers and tasks can be carried out without a surveyor on site. Unlike
conventional complex, vendor-specific machine control, it can be retrofitted to existing machinery, instantly improving on-site safety. The technology is compatible with a wide range of systems and machines, including swing boom and grading attachments. It can also be used on large-scale projects alongside other
systems for high precision earthmoving or grading. Small businesses can start reducing input bills and increasing margins almost immediately without extensive training, reaping the benefits of 3D machine control fast at a price that is up to 50% less than similar advanced technologies.
Customers are delighted with the changes Unicontrol has brought to their businesses. Eamon Ridge, director of Surrey-based Benridge Construction, says: “I’ve been in the construction industry for 25 years.
Economically, it’s been extremely beneficial to us because the accuracy of excavations is pretty much as they should be designed. It’s very simple, to be honest, and it makes life fun.”
His comments are echoed by Darragh Woods, owner/operator of Irish firm Woods Civils, who explains: “You fly through it, you’re not waiting for an engineer to come out and mark it out.You can just walk away on your own and that’s it. Once it’s set up there, once you have the drawings, you’ll fly through the work.”
And, Patrick Quinn, owner/operator of P
RETROFIT
Quinn Construction, adds: “Since purchasing Unicontrol, you’ll see our speed time has gone up 50%. We’ve literally put the drawings in the screen, uploaded the architect’s drawings and instead of stuff taking a week, it’s taking one to two days. We’re cutting the costs on everything; it’s great.”
SOLUTION
with Leica Geosystems to launch a new aftermarket 3D machine control solution for the Develon DX225LC-7X smart crawler excavator.
The machine already comes with full electric hydraulic (FEH) technology and an integrated 2D machine guidance and machine control system as standard equipment but to enhance this efficiency Develon is now offering the Leica MC1 3D machine guidance system as a retrofit.
“We are excited to unite in a pioneering collaboration with Leica Geosystems, introducing a seamless experience to obtain a 3D machine guidance solution for our DX225LC-7X smart excavator,” said Stephane Dieu, excavators product manager for Develon in Europe. “This joint effort empowers
construction companies to seamlessly blend efficiency and sustainability, setting a new standard for innovation.”
The Leica MC1 machine control system is designed to assist the operator to achieve the desired outcome. Design information and realtime cut/fill indications are displayed in the cab on the Leica MCP80 control panel, allowing
operators to excavate to the reference model efficiently. The solution is claimed to ensure higher accuracy and operator satisfaction while increasing productivity and sustainability.
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h e a v y w e i g h t s i n c r a w l e r e x c a v a t o r s , w e ’ v e g o t i t c o v e r e d
G e t t h e l a t e s t i n f o r m a t i o n o n t h e i n d u s t r y ’s b i g g e s t d e a l s , a s c o n t r a c t o r s a n d p l a n t h i r e r s r e n e w t h e i r f l e e t s i n o u r F l e e t A d d i t i o n s s e c t i o n , a s w e l l a s a l l o f t h e n e w e s t
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GOOD AS NEW
By extending the life of a Volvo L350F wheeled loader, Heidelberg Materials UK and SMT are demonstrating the power of collaboration and the circular economy in reducing carbon emissions and waste. CPN reports.
Starting from scratch
The rebuild was carried out at SMT’s Newcastle depot, where the L350F was stripped back to the chassis, with new hydraulic pumps, hoses, steering systems and refurbished cylinders installed to factory standards.
Significant work included the replacement of the driveline components (front and rear axles, engine, transmission, dropbox and prop shafts) as well as full line boring and repair of the load frame and bucket, fully overhauled with a new specialised cutting-edge and strengthened wear plates. Upgrades to the machine to bring it in line with modern Volvo standards also included new lighting and high-
intensity decals for better visibility.
Meanwhile, enhancements were made to the cab for greater operator comfort, including a refurbished seat, new floor mats, replacement headlining and updated switchgear. The Comfort Drive Control system was also installed to reduce operator strain and stress.
“Despite the sheer size and power of the L350F, it’s so easy to operate,” says Andrew Graham, who operates the loader. “It’s just like being in an armchair at home.
“It’s got great visibility and, due to the large bucket size, we can reduce the number of trips to the crusher. This efficiency translates to better fuel economy and reduced tyre wear.”
The SMT rebuild process typically takes around 12 weeks, with machines selected based on national guidelines, service history, oil samples and component ageing. It also uses genuine Volvo parts, meaning that the machine is covered by a 24-month warranty on major components, offering Heidelberg peace of mind with no additional costs for potential issues.
Looking forward to the future
The collaboration between Heidelberg Materials and SMT underscores the importance of sustainability and innovation in the construction equipment industry.
“Collaboration with suppliers such as SMT is crucial for achieving Heidelberg Materials UK’s sustainability goals,” explains Elliot Wellbelove, carbon innovation manager at Heidelberg. “We can rely on SMT to provide emissions reduction data for rebuilt machines, which is essential for calculating environmental benefits and integrating them into our data systems.”
“We have been a Volvo and SMT customer for a long time,” says Luke Morgan, Heidelberg fleet manager. “The SMT relationship has developed quite significantly over the past few years. We appreciate the professionalism of a
“...despite the sheer size and power of the L350F, it's so easy to operate...”
structured approach towards the rebuilding of the machines and in the wider way in which SMT operates. Our confidence in the success of the rebuild was due to experience of SMT’s expertise and way of working.”
UPPING THE WORK RATE
Develon’s new DX140LC-7K 14.6 tonne crawler excavator is claimed to incorporate many improvements that enhance safety and convenience both for the operator and for working on site, together with a better operator experience, particularly from a maintenance point of view.
The upgraded serviceability of the DX140LC7K includes better access to the DEF tank and the fuel refilling hose. This is combined with a much easier approach for the operator to the engine compartment via new anti-slip steps and handrails positioned behind the cab. The anti-slip steps are protected and secured by a new door on the side of the excavator.
A new flattened engine cover design has reduced the maximum height of cover components on the back of the machine from 1285.5mm and 1320mm down to a uniform 1070mm across all of the back of the machine, offering better visibility for the operator both to the rear and to the right-hand side of the machine.
Elsewhere on the DX140LC-7K, Develon has removed holding valves from the main valve for better fluidity. These holding valves on the main valve are not needed in the EU, as they are
standard on the boom and arm. This reduces pressure losses and creates less heat in the system. The air prefilter has also been moved for better performance and noise reduction.
Inside the operator’s cab, there is a new dashboard monitor with a state-of-the-art tablet design. The former hydraulic two-way pedal has also been replaced by an electronic two-way pedal, with a new PE3C electric pedal as a standard feature, together with a simplified hydraulic system.
The new excavator utilises a smart hydraulic system that offers an improvement of around 30% in attachment work, compared to previous excavator models. This system applies a smart hydraulic logic for optimal distribution of the hydraulic flow rate when both the arm and attachment are working simultaneously, with a new priority valve and an additional hydraulic line maintaining continuous hydraulic flow to the
attachment, even when the arm is being used.
The DX140LC-7K is powered by the D34 4-cylinder Stage V diesel engine providing 86 kW (115hp) of power at 2000rpm. The performance of the engine in combination with the hydraulic main valve and the SPC3 Smart Power Controls, provide increased fuel saving. There are four power modes available on the DX140LC-7K and the operator is able to set the power mode (P+, P, S or E) in both oneway and two-way working modes.
Develon’s state-of-the-art Telematics Management System is installed as standard. This system offers a web-based fleet management solution for monitoring the performance and security of machines and promoting preventative maintenance.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
WWW.RDR.LINK/CAX031 GOTO
UPGRADES ALL ROUND
Komatsu Europe is launching its next generation wheel loaders, the WA475-11 and WA485-11. The two new models are packed with stateof-the-art technology and offer great performance, efficiency, and operator comfort for a maximised customer value, says Komatsu.
At the heart of new Dash 11 generation wheel loaders is a newly developed diesel engine which is characterised by extremely high torque in the low-speed range. This new engine is combined with a Komatsu-designed hydro-mechanical-transmission (HMT), resulting in unmatched performance, power reserves, fuel efficiency and ease of operation for all transport and loading tasks. The WA475-11, for example, demonstrates a 14% improvement in fuel efficiency over its Dash 10 predecessor, while the WA485-11 achieves a remarkable 29% increase in fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor WA480-8.
Thanks to a constant variable gear ratio, the engine stays in a highly efficient fuel zone. Variable speed control makes it possible to individually adapt the machine’s maximum speed to the requirements of the job site. The adjustable variable traction control effectively limits wheel spin in difficult ground conditions.
Compared to its predecessor the WA4808, the WA485-11 has experienced a significant
upgrade in payload and bucket capacity. All machine components have been adapted to a permanent payload of 8,800 kg and can even be increased to 9,300 kg in an aggregate handling variant, which helps to reduce the number of loading cycles required depending on the vehicle size.
Komatsu’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the new wheel loaders’ advanced emissions control systems, which meet EU Stage V standards.
On top of that, the well-proven Komatsu exhaust system includes a diesel particulate filter (KDPF) and, together with the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system, which further reduces NOx emissions using AdBlue. These technologies, in conjunction with the particularly low-emission combustion, allows the diesel particulate filter to be replaced only every 8,000 hours; this interval can be extended even further by using particularly low-ash engine oils.
Another new feature is the variable power control, which enables the lifting speed to be
controlled independently of the accelerator pedal. The optimised Z-bar linkage offers up to 20% more lifting power and a higher production rate of tons per hour. The upgraded lifting speed and class-leading machine stability help to increase productivity, especially in tight V-shaped loading applications. In addition, the hydraulic response time and the tipping or lifting speed can be adjusted to specific application requirements.
The new, operator-friendly and spacious cab offers generous all-round glazing and has an interior noise level of just 70 dB(A).The heated rear window is angled, which effectively prevents dirt from sticking on the rear screen. The lever console has a new command control switch and is adjustable on a 5-way axis for each operator.The increased internal air pressure prevents dust and other particles from entering the cab. For easy and safe entry and exit, both machines are equipped with a rear-hinged door, angled steps and large handrails.
HYBRID ALERT
The recently launched new generation excavators from Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) are now being introduced as a hybrid option.
Set to deliver a 17% increase in fuel efficiency and a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption, these powerful solutions are the perfect combination to achieve high-performing productivity while also taking better care of the environment, says Volvo.The modern EC400 and EC500 will be the first of the new generation excavators to be offered as hybrid models, with more in the range to come.
The 40-ton and 50-ton dynamic duo not only represent the future of excavator design but now become the biggest models in Volvo’s hybrid portfolio, joining the previous generation EC380E Hybrid, EC350E Hybrid, EC300E Hybrid and EC250E Hybrid excavators.
Gaining the competitive edge is in even easier reach thanks to the pioneering hydraulic hybrid Volvo technology. It works by harvesting ‘free’ energy generated by the down motion of the excavator’s boom. The machine uses this boom down motion to charge the accumulator, with the stored energy then used to drive the assist motor, when needed, in turn powering the engine system.
It is a smart yet simple solution that ensures big savings in cost, fuel and carbon emissions – while raising the bar on profitability and environmentally responsible operations.
“... customers have an unbeatable package to elevate excavator precision and productivity...”
The new generation excavators from Volvo CE already push the boundaries of productivity and total cost of ownership thanks to a more spacious and ergonomic design concept, enhanced operator environment and improved human machine interface. Add Volvo’s hybrid technology, and customers have a robust solution to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow with a more sustainable operation.
With this hybrid technology, customers gain a quoted 17% increase in fuel efficiency through digging and dumping operations, while still enjoying all the power and performance expected from a conventional excavator.
What is more, the new electro-hydraulic system requires less hoses, therefore reducing the need for couplings, minimizing maintenance requirements and costs, all the while increasing reliability.
A robust undercarriage with reinforced idle frame, track links and bottom rollers ensures that the machine is built to deliver outstanding strength and durability. The toughest of jobs can be carried out with ease thanks to the strengthened bucket linkage with steel strip, optional heavy-duty superstructure undercover and easily replaced bolt-on wear plates.
Compatibility with Steelwrist, Engcon and Rototilt tiltrotators provides the flexibility needed for any construction job. And when combined with Volvo’s smarter solutions – such as Volvo Active Control and Dig Assist with On-Board Weighing, customers have an unbeatable package to elevate excavator precision and productivity.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
WWW.RDR.LINK/CAX033 GOTO
PINPOINT DOZERING
Develon’s partnership with Leica Geosystems continues with the launch of an aftermarket 3D machine control solution tailored for the Develon DD130-7 dozer.
The Develon DD130-7 dozer is designed to excel in earthmoving tasks, providing superior power and efficiency. Now, with the addition of the Leica MC1 3D machine control system, this dozer will further enhance operator accuracy and overall project productivity. The Leica iCON iGD3 3D machine control solution integrates seamlessly with Develon’s advanced hydraulic controls, allowing operators to execute precise grading and earthmoving tasks with minimal rework.
The Leica MC1 3D machine control system simplifies grading by providing realtime data and feedback. The system is displayed on the robust Leica MCP80 control panel, offering user-friendly navigation that allows operators to visualise the design and reference models directly from the cab. With the dual GNSS configuration, the DD130-7 dozer benefits from precise blade control and automatic adjustments for optimal cut/fill operations.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
WWW.RDR.LINK/CAX034 GOTO
Bobcat....................................(page 44 Outside back cover) www.rdr.link/VBN100
JCB....................................................................(page 22,23) www.rdr.link/VBN101
JM Clark................................................(page 1 Front cover) www.rdr.link/VBN102
Manitou..................................................................(page 18) www.rdr.link/VBN103
Mann+Hummel..........................................(UK) Ltd (page 9) www.rdr.link/VBN104
Merlo UK Ltd..........................................................(page 12) www.rdr.link/VBN105
Moving Intelligence......................(page 2 Inside front cover) www.rdr.link/VBN106
Werner UK Sales Ltd................................................(page 4) www.rdr.link/VBN107
