PLANT PLANET JUNE

Case Study

Customer received an out-of-hours alert via SMS and App.

Ignition had been started on two machines during the specified ‘out-of-hours’ period.

Machines had scheduled immobilisation via the VT202,so all though the thieves could start the ignition they could not start the engine.

Gave the contractor time to alert the police, catch the thieves on-site, and retain the machinery without additional costs or resources.

Our Biggest Issue Yet!

What’s that? This is the biggest issue of Plant Planet of ALL TIME? Why yes. Yes it is!

This issue is full to bursting with the most exciting updates in the industry; reviews, profiles, previews, we have it all! And not only that, but this marks our very first issue with brand new mini mag Demolition Spotlight!

Are you excited? Well of course you are!

Our Front Cover story comes to us courtesy of Flannery, who discuss their commitment to a greener, cleaner future for plant. We also have two fantastic company profiles; Smartequip tackle the challenges in fleet productivity, and Fleetguard give the down low on how filtration and coolants can contribute to increased performance.

We have the run down on so many shows in this mag, not least of all the event everyone is talking about, Hillhead 2024! The mining and quarrying show is BACK and we’re bringing you all the incredible insights in our six page preview. Not only that, but we have a sneak peek at the CPA Stars of the Future, an event that champions the up and coming stars of the construction industry. And that’s not all! Both INTERMAT and Scotplant are reviewed, where we tell you all about our amazing experiences at both shows, filled with photos, highlights and more.

Life with Lana makes a triumphant return as we follow Lana through a typical day on site, the highs, the lows, and everything in between! And speaking of out and about, I got the incredible honour to be invited to Volvodays 2024, steeping myself in the rich history of Volvo as well as their innovative future.

Our features are also entirely mining and quarrying themed, with Vaculug teaming up with us to produce all the best information about Titanic Tech, and a little history lesson on mining and quarrying through the ages.

Happy Reading!

Rebecca Phillips Managing Editor

Plant Planet is published by Kiwi Media and Promotions Ltd 2nd Floor, 41-42 Southgate, Chichester, West Sussex PO19 1ET +44 (0) 1243 345 323

Copyright

Kiwi Media and Promotions Ltd. © 2024 all rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited except with permission in writing from the company.

Note to contributors: articles submitted to the Editor for consideration must be the original work of the author.

Where photographs are included that are not the property of the company or contributor, permission to reproduce them must have been received from the owner of the copyright. Any views or opinions expressed within this magazine are not necessarily those of the company.

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We’ll send you an alert when you leave site without your tools.

DARREN SHELTON BUSINESS MANAGER

CHARLOTTE WALSH SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE

REBECCA PHILLIPS MANAGING EDITOR

MARTINA TONELLI MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR

PHIL EVERY SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE

LORNA COWLIN CONTENT CREATOR

Submit your articles: editor@plant-planet.co.uk contributors

REBECCA BURRELL SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE

STEVE WILSON DESIGN MANAGER

CAL O’CONNER FLANNERY

HANNAH PASCOE SUNBELT RENTALS

LISA COLLINS CPA

LILY WATSON VACULUG

RACHEL ROBB FLEETGUARD

CAITLIN BRENNAN SMARTEQUIP

BRIAN JONES HEAD OF CONSTRUCTION PLANT-HIRE ASSOCIATION (CPA)

Brian Jones is President of the CPA, the largest trade association for the plant-hire sector in the UK with circa 1,900 members. He has worked in plant-hire for over 50 years. Brian was elected to the CPA Council over 30 years ago and has been CPA President since 2017.

RACHEL LAMBERT @KINGSTON PR

Rachel Lambert is a PR consultant and the founder of Kingston PR, a business she started over 30 years ago. A former magazine editor, she is also a freelance writer covering a range of sectors.

LANA EDWARDS @TRACKLASS1

Working with plant machinery since she was 8 years old, Lana Edwards is one of the most well known and respected inluencers in the construction industry. She is the Number One Woman in Construction for Wales as well as a Top 100 Women in Construction for the UK.

SMARTEQUIP:

TIGHTENING

LANA

LANA

SCOTPLANT 2024

SCOTLAND’S

VOLVODAYS

HILLHEAD 2024

THE WORLD’S BIGGEST WORKING QUARRY SHOW IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER.

FLEETGUARD

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO KEEP UP, PROTECT YOUR EQUIPMENT, AND EXTEND MAINTENANCE INTERVALS.

TITANIC TECH

VACULUG AND PLANT PLANET TEAM UP TO GIVE YOU THE LOW DOWN ON THE GIANTS OF THE MINING PLANT SECTOR.

INTERMAT

PLANT PLANET AND DEMOLITION SPOTLIGHT WERE ABSOLUTELY THRILLED TO BE AT INTERMAT 2024. A FIRST FOR THE MAGAZINES, WE WERE REPRESENTED BY OUR SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVES PHIL EVERY AND CHARLOTTE WALSH.

CPA STARS OF THE FUTURE

STARS OF THE FUTURE IS THE CPA’S AWARDS PROGRAMME FOR APPRENTICES AND TRAINEES IN THE CONSTRUCTION PLANT SECTOR, AND IS THE PREMIER EVENT FOR RECOGNISING AND REWARDING APPRENTICES.

A LOOK AT SOME OF OUR ADVERTISERS’ EXCITING PRODUCTS AND SERVICES.

A COMMITMENT TO CHAMPION COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Sunbelt Rentals UK & Ireland is committed to making a positive impact on the community and our planet. Their purpose to transform places, spaces and lives is what inspires them to see the potential in the world and make concepts a reality. .

They actively seek and form strong strategic partnerships, collaborating closely with volunteer programmes to showcase their community engagement and align with their sustainability strategy, Our Planet. Since the launch of their regional social impact committees in 2022, they have successfully supported numerous projects that benefit our planet.

Examples of their community-focused projects

West SILC School in Leeds recently received support with a project led by Jennifer Hayes, Business Development Manager for Bids & Tenders, along with Peter Robinson, Regional Director for Traffic, and Molly Bermingham, Tender and Bid Co-ordinator. Their project resulted in road safety education for students aged four to 18 with additional learning needs. The team conducted interactive sessions during road safety week and donated traffic management equipment for workshops. They also assisted in removing redundant equipment, resurfacing roads, cleaning up waste, and installing new planters.

The Trakway team supported HMP Sudbury with a programme, led by Lindsey Bailey, the Academy Manager at Sunbelt Rentals, to develop a workshop that addresses both business and societal needs. This project not only meets the increasing demand for their products, but also provides prisoners a chance to upskill and

receive training, ultimately leading to meaningful employment within the workshop. The goal of this partnership is to make a positive impact on individuals by providing them with training and employment opportunities while in the prison system, reducing reoffending and supporting successful reintegration into society.

A core component of Sunbelt Rentals’ Beacon Schools and Colleges programme, the Skills for Life programme equips learners aged 17 and above with essential life skills. Designed by Georgia Satchwell, Learning and Development Trainer, and supported by Molly Bermingham, Tender and Bid Coordinator, this programme is adaptable to the needs of different learners and is delivered across the country, highlighting the company’s commitment to educational support and youth empowerment.

Their Regional Social Impact Committee in Scotland, led by Lisa Kennedy, Field Sales Executive, and supported by Douglas Smith, Regional Sales Director, have spent over 18 months supporting the Carntyne &

Riddrie Foodbank. Their efforts have improved the foodbank’s visibility online, increased storage capacity, and organised donations, significantly enhancing the support provided to the local community in Glasgow. A fundraising event, supported by Sunbelt Rentals customers, raised £19,984.86 for the foodbank.

Mick Hogg, a fitter from our Newcastle depot, exemplifies the community spirit at Sunbelt Rentals. Through his dedication to restoring a local community site in the face of vandalism, Mick has emerged as a local hero. His selfless actions, including spending his weekends cleaning and restoring the area.

At Sunbelt Rentals UK & Ireland, we believe in the power of community and the positive impact that can arise from investing in places, spaces and lives.

To learn more about Sunbelt Rentals UK & Ireland, please visit: www.sunbeltrentals.co.uk

WONDERING WHETHER GPS TRACKERS OFFER SUFFICIENT PROTECTION

AGAINST THEFT?

MOVING INTELLIGENCE CAN PROVE THEY DO!

In recent years, the construction industry has experienced a worrying increase in construction equipment theft. In fact, BauWatch claim we’re now in a ‘Theft Epidemic’ within their latest report, Unseen Threats: 2024 Construction Crime Index, February 2024. This damming report shows theft from construction sites is surging nationwide, detrimentally affecting projects lead times, businesses reputation, insurance claim rates and employee retention.

It is believed that several factors have contributed to this steep incline. Factors including the resale value of parts hitting record highs alongside the increased sophistication and technology used by organised crime groups, which include the use of drones to identify potential target sites.

In response, many construction companies have increasingly invested

in GPS tracking and immobilisation systems to both prevent or aid recovery should the worse happen. Only last week, Moving Intelligence’s industry leading tracking solution facilitated the recovery of a Mini-Excavator, saving an estimated value of £12,000.

Developments and trends in the construction industry are best tracked in the annual police crime statistics. According to the official figures for the 2023 statistics, 85.7% of vehicle theft offences were closed without a suspect being identified, a 1% increase on 2022 statistics.

With a charge rate of a mere 1.8%. These figures alone prove the suspected increase in criminal sophistication.

Tracking and Recovery

Choosing the right GPS tracking provider is crucial in the event of construction

machinery theft. When selecting a tracking provider, companies should pay particular attention to the functions and service offered. When it comes to securing construction machinery and vehicles, conventional GPS trackers or air tags are simply not fit for purpose or reliable.

Low-cost providers generally have poor security barriers. This means that although a tracker is present, these devices can be traced and removed very quickly by thieves.

Moving Intelligence provide marketleading secure devices, supported by a team of experienced installation professionals who both advise and fit your tracker seamlessly, ensuring it is undetectable. Equally should you wish to go one step further, our Asset+ solution has a dual-pronged approach, with an additional battery tracking unit that is independent to its counterpart should one be found.

Call us today on 0161 476 4050 or email sales@movingintelligence.co.uk to find out how you can avoid being the next theft statistic.

Another problem faced by others in the market is network coverage abroad. In many cases, the Police and recovery companies have difficulty tracking stolen construction machinery once it has left the UK. Which is happening at an alarming rate. To combat this the majority of Moving Intelligence’s trackers have Europe wide coverage as standard – meaning we can still track your stolen equipment, no matter how quickly the thieves can ship it out the country. In fact, our fastest recorded recovery was only 15 minutes!

Lastly, many providers do not have an after-theft recovery service, the customer has to deal with the theft alone should it occur. Moving Intelligence believe this is not a full solution – and we know just how important it is to be able to react quickly and professionally in order to increase the chances of recovery. In light of this, Moving Intelligence have an expert team of recovery experts, with over 20 years knowledge of the industry.

Our 24/7, 365-day recovery team can act rapidly should any suspicious movement be reported, working closely with both the customer and the Police to facilitate the recovery. Due to our marketleading technology and easy-to-navigate platform we have a 94% recovery rate.

Solutions

Depending on your equipment type, budget and security concerns Moving Intelligence have a number of solutions that can help.

The AT4 nicknamed ‘The Rock’ is a small battery-powered tracking device encapsulated in resin and unscannable (apart from a 2 minute update window every 12 hours) for ultimate protection. This makes it ideal for construction and machinery equipment or any assets exposed to the elements or vigorous movement.

The VT202 wired-in asset management solution is a GPS tracker with a host of

accessories and additional features to suit a company’s ever-changing requirements and security threats. Complete with asset overview, live monitoring, and asset history with the additional benefits of Immobilisation, Driver ID (Keypad (optional extra), Driver Card or iButton Key), Wireless Temperature Sensors, Panic Buttons, Volumetric Sensors and much more.

The Asset+ solution – Moving Intelligence’s hybrid solution is inclusive of both wired and non-wired battery technology. Once a machine has an Asset+ solution installed the customer will benefit from our greatest protection to date, including live GPS tracking, scheduled immobilisation, antiscannable technology, extensive battery life and 24/7 recovery support.

Once any of our tracking devices are installed customers will have access to the Moving Intelligence Nexis web-based interface, iOS, and Android app allowing complete control and visibility of equipment.

PREVIEW THE MERLO STAND AT HILLHEAD 2024

Merlo is exhibiting at Hillhead with a showcase of their innovative handlers, essential machines on any construction project. From the Cingo M500 tracked carrier to the flagship Roto 50.30 S Plus, Merlo offers a diverse and wide range of construction specification machines, each boasting unique features whilst designed with comfort, safety, and sustainability in mind.

Visitors can expect to see five models from the current construction range displayed on the Merlo stand. Maintaining the sustainability theme, the generation zero, 100% electric e-Worker, the EW25.5 has a 2.5-tonne capacity and 5m reach and boasts an 8-hour run time.

Moving up in scale the Panoramic P40.17 Plus, boasts a Stage V 115hp engine, with optional flow sharing hydraulics, a lift height of 17m with 4 tonne capacity. The independent, axle mounted hydraulic stabilisers offer class leading compact dimensions. The

P40.17 Plus’ four-stage boom also offers boom side-shift and frame levelling for enhanced accuracy.

For those seeking higher capacity for the most demanding of applications, Merlo will also display the impressive 12 tonne capacity, 10-metre reach P120.10 with CVT transmission, Merlo’s Advanced Stability Control System (ASCS) attachment recognition safety system, large in cab LCD display screen and flow-sharing hydraulics fitted as standard. The ASCS ensures a high level of safety, checking the operating parameters of the handler in real time to improve its stability. This heavy-duty Panoramic handler is equipped with 160 l/min hydraulic flow.

Probably best known, in the world of construction, is the Merlo Roto for positioning loads in a radius of up to 360 degrees. At Hillhead, Merlo will show the ROTO 50.30 S PLUS, with stage V 170 hp engine, 5 tonne capacity and reach of up to 30m. S PLUS models

have dual hydraulic pumps, a tilting cab and automatic management of the multi position stabilisers as standard.

Completing the Merlo line-up at this year’s Hillhead will be the innovative Cingo tracked carrier. At only 690mm wide, this 500kg capacity walk behind, hydraulic tipping dumper allows for easy handling of a wide range of materials. The M500D is powered by a 5.5hp Honda petrol engine.

You’ll find these machines and the team from Merlo on stand A20 at Hillhead Quarry, Buxton on 25th to 27th June 2024. To learn more about Merlo, please visit: www.www.merlo.com/gbr/en/ FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

Merlo UK will be returning to the Hillhead’s Quarrying, Construction and Recycling exhibition in Buxton on the 25th to 27th of June for the UK’s largest construction equipment exhibition. On display will be an extensive collection of our Construction models. Visit us at stand A20 to find out more about our Construction Range.

Visit Merlo UK at Hillhead 2024

PEGASUS ELITE: A NEW CAB FOR THE TOP-OF-THE-LINE ROTATING TELEHANDLER

Safety, functionality, and productivity are three essential elements for large companies operating in the construction industry, especially when it comes to machinery. In fact, in order to optimise the work cycles and guarantee continuous work rhythms and excellent efficiency within every operating context, it is important to opt for highly versatile solutions. At the same time, ease of use, innovation, and practicality are essential for ensuring a sustainable and safe working environment for the operator.

DIECI has specifically designed its new rotating telehandler, the Pegasus 60.35, to meet the needs of a market that’s increasingly attentive to work site safety and is on the lookout for highperformance equipment designed for lifting and transporting heavy loads in contexts that require maximum precision. A unit with extraordinary loading and outreach capacities that’s designed to offer construction professionals greater performance for all handling operations. Let’s learn more about all the operational advantages that the Pegasus Elite telehandler has to offer.

Custom electronics with the Easy Tech System

The new Pegasus telehandler range was created to facilitate work at the construction site, while at the same time offering maximum performance, comfort, and safety. The range consists of the Pegasus Essential, the Pegasus Classic, and the Pegasus Elite, the new top of the line solution with even greater performance and innovation that focuses on simplicity and improved movement control.

Innovation begins with the Easy Tech System, a new hardware and software platform developed in-house by the DIECI R&D department, which ensures data processing capabilities comparable to that of the most modern vehicles. Guaranteeing greater performance and outstanding features:

• Greater precision and control of movement, thanks to the possibility of setting maximum threshold parameters;

• Automatic boom movement, based on 6 selectable working modes (Normal, Soft, Heavy, Eco, Wall, Floor);

• Anti Tilt System-Pro, the new advanced anti-tipping system with aggravating movements lock, based on the dynamic calculation of the work loads and the equipment installed.

• Electronically controlled load-sensing pump, for an in-depth dynamic set-up based on the working conditions and the equipment in use.

Thanks to the Easy Tech System, the Pegasus Elite offers total operational adaptability to any working context, with a focus on maximum control and safety.

New

features for the DIECI rotating telehandler cab

As evidenced by the innovative Easy Tech System, the advantages that the Pegasus Elite offers to the construction industry and the telehandler rental market begin with the cab, the interior of which has been completely redesigned with new smart controls to ensure operational intuitiveness. The aim from the outset

was to implement a new concept of machine control, thus ensuring simplified and safer features.

This new smart and intuitive approach has led to the revamping of various interior aspects of the cab, starting with the controls, which are now digitally managed on a dual display:

• 4.3’’ display dedicated to the machine’s running functions;

• 12’’ multi-touch display dedicated to the machine’s operating status and the management of the most advanced features.

The 12’’ display allows the machine to be displayed either in drive mode or on its outriggers, intuitively adjusting:

• the working mode;

• the lighting screen;

• the working diagram (load and position);

• the outriggers;

• the centre of gravity.

In addition to the standard controls, the advanced features implemented on the Pegasus Elite rotating telehandler can also be controlled from the display, allowing for the management of the following with just a few clicks:

• The six working modes;

• The connected equipment and the relative load diagram;

• The Soft Motion Function, which slows down the movements based on the load being carried and the machine’s configuration, in order to reduce dynamic effects and end-of-stroke shocks;

• The Easy Work System, an advanced software system that automatically adjusts the loading capacity based on the position of the outriggers and the machine’s support surface;

• The “limits” function, designed to allow the work to be carried out in complete

safety. Thanks to this feature, it is possible to demarcate the working area, moving the boom within a safe zone that has been delimited in relation to walls and ceilings;

Pop-ups and audible warnings visible on the display further protect the operator, ensuring high levels of safety throughout all handling, turning, and/or lifting operations.

At the design level, the approach used for both screens is reminiscent of the automotive interface, facilitating the understanding of the parameters, thus ensuring simplified management under all usage conditions. The intuitiveness of the controls makes them particularly suitable for the rental sector, even shortterm, offering technologically advanced telehandlers that are easy to manage, even upon first use. The possibility of customising the display layout even allows the user to manage the screen based on their own operational needs, with greater focus being placed on the

rotating telehandler’s most frequently utilised functions.

Comfort, visibility, and safety: a rotating telehandler that’s on the operator’s side

In addition to the innovative features and the intuitive and technologically advanced controls, guaranteed by the presence of the two screens, the new cab of the Pegasus Elite rotating telehandler offers total operator comfort, starting with access. The integration of four access ladders and a walkway that can be controlled from the cab constantly ensures safe and comfortable entry in every configuration.

Once inside the cab, the operator can access all of the vehicle’s functions directly from the driver’s seat, including:

• two proportional joysticks with a capacitive sensor for boom control;

• controls located on the inside of the right armrest. Here there is also the mini-joystick for the proportional control of the four independent outriggers, and the “equipment quick coupling” control to facilitate accessory changes.

All the new functions and individual controls have been implemented with a focus on control and visibility, making the Pegasus Elite rotating telehandler an extremely safe vehicle in any context, also thanks to:

• the large glass surface, which guarantees complete visibility of the surrounding area;

• the 12’’ display, to constantly monitor diagrams, limits, and the positions of the outriggers and equipment;

• the reclining seat, to facilitate overhead operations;

• the LED work lights, which can be operated directly from the display;

• the backlit can keypads;

• the around-vehicle monitoring system, which includes up to three cameras.

Thanks to the new cab design, the Pegasus Elite rotating telehandler is an indispensable unit for large construction sites and more, with a focus on innovation, extensive operating functions, all-round safety, and intuitive machine management. Here, everything is centred around the operator, who will find everything they need for simplified, optimised, and incredibly high-performance work activities in any context.

CESAR FORENSIC SECURITY

The CESAR Scheme, owned by the Construction Equipment Association (CEA) and delivered by Datatag, is the country’s leading security marking system for construction and agricultural machinery. CESAR plays a crucial role in both deterring theft and facilitating the identification and recovery of stolen equipment.

The CESAR Scheme’s uniqueness lies in its multi-faceted approach to equipment marking. Central to this is the now iconic CESAR triangular identification plate, a tamper-evident plate affixed to each registered machine featuring a unique alpha numeric identity code.

CESAR also features RFID technology and recently unveiled a significant technological enhancement with the introduction of the ‘Ultra High Frequency’ RFID transponder. This ultra-secure RFID is impervious to compromise and when embedded within the machinery, can be scanned from up to 18 meters away, providing a quick and non-invasive way to verify equipment identity. This feature is particularly useful in identifying stolen items where visible identifiers may have been tampered with.

A further identification technology employed by CESAR are microdots. Each CESAR System contains hundreds which are painted onto machinery parts. Each feature a unique identification number visible under microscope and contained in a UV trace adhesive. This sophisticated technology ensures that even disassembled parts can be traced back to the original machine, complicating any attempts to sell stolen items.

Taking security to a molecular level, the CESAR Scheme ultimate identification technology is its a unique forensic DNA marker. This cutting-edge technology embeds an indelible unique identity into the very fabric of the machinery, highlighting the CESAR tag-line, “It’s in our DNA.”

CESAR’s layered approach to security marking enhances the visibility of the

equipment to law enforcement, and simply aides in its identification helping to reconnect recovered items with their rightful owners.

Opting for the CESAR Scheme offers numerous benefits. The visible and covert security measures make CESARregistered equipment a less attractive target for thieves. Due to this significantly lowered theft risk, many insurers offer reduced premiums for CESAR-registered equipment. With CESAR, equipment owners can rest assured that their assets are protected by the most advanced security marking system available today.

CESAR is approaching a registration milestone of 650,000 systems and has the support of the majority of manufacturers in the industry. CESAR, now more than ever, offers unparalleled theft protection and peace of mind to asset owners and law enforcement agencies, significantly enhancing their capability to safeguard vital machinery and equipment assets.

KEEP BUILDING WITH DONALDSON: THE TRUSTED CHOICE IN CONSTRUCTION

At Donaldson, we understand the construction industry and the critical importance of maintaining operational equipment. Any downtime not only halts progress but directly impacts your bottom line. That’s why we strive to ensuring your machinery operates smoothly, under any conditions.

Why Trust Donaldson for Your Construction Needs?

• Dependable Performance in Tough Environments: Construction sites are demanding. Donaldson filtration systems provide superior performance and durability, ensuring your equipment remains efficient and reliable, no matter the conditions.

• Extended Warranty Assurance: Our confidence in our products is reflected in our extended warranties. Our filters meet or exceed OEM specifications, offering you peace of mind and reducing maintenance costs.

• Robust Distribution Network: Our extensive network of distribution partners ensures that Donaldson’s filtration technologies are readily available wherever your operations may be. Our partners offer expert advice and support, making it easy for you to access our products and benefit from rapid service.

• Unmatched Expertise: With over a century of innovation in filtration technology, Donaldson is a global

leader dedicated to the construction industry. Our solutions are designed to meet the specific demands of your worksites.

Our Commitment to Your Success

Donaldson Mobile Solutions Aftermarket is dedicated to boosting the reliability and efficiency of your construction machinery. From protecting vital engine components against dust and debris to enhancing fuel efficiency, our aftermarket solutions are tailored to withstand the rigors of construction environments.

Choose Donaldson – Your Partner in Construction Excellence

Opt for Donaldson Aftermarket for premium filtration and sustained performance. Rely on a brand that brings

over 100 years of filtration expertise to your projects, ensuring their success and enhancing equipment reliability. Reach out today to explore how Donaldson can improve the reliability and operational efficiency of your construction machinery.

Your partner in keeping construction moving forward.

Donaldson. Keep Building. Keep Moving.

To learn more about Donaldson, please visit: www.donaldson.com

WHAT ARE FUEL ADDITIVES AND WHY USE THEM?

Put simply, fuel additives are chemicals that are added to fuel either singly or as a ‘package’ that serve either to address a problem or to enhance the performance properties of the fuel in some way.

For almost 20 years exocet® have been designing, manufacturing and delivering products to protect and enhance fuel, or to resolve problems associated with problematic fuel. We have a range of successful products in many sectors including; homefuel, automotive, agriculture, marine and off road applications.

Upgrading a fuel to provide optimum combustion performance, addressing storage, eliminating microbiological growth “diesel bug” or winter “waxing” issues are achieved by proper use of the appropriate fuel additive. To this end, fuel additives should be regarded as the norm not the exception.

exocet® Off Road Diesel Supreme (XO1243D)

DESCRIPTION

Exocet® Off Road Diesel Supreme is an advanced fully formulated fuel additive designed to benefit mineral diesel, paraffinic diesel, blends of both paraffinic and mineral diesel and biodiesel blends. It prevents deposit formation throughout the fuel delivery system, especially in the injectors and fuel pump, to keep the system clean and running at optimum

performance. It also compensates for some of the detrimental effects of a higher FAME content (e.g. tendency for water pickup) and, critically, will prevent the agglomeration of biodiesel precipitates that is often the cause of fuel filter blocking leading to fuel starvation in the engine.

APPLICATION

The additive will counter any negative effects resulting from higher FAME (biodiesel) content and will avoid increases in fuel consumption due to sticking injectors and wear. Typical applications are construction equipment, airport vehicles and forklift trucks.

The product is formulated from recognised fuel additive components and will not void an engine manufacturer’s warranty. Many engine manufacturers now recommend the use of deposit control additives in low emissions, high pressure common rail diesel engines, see Worldwide Fuel Charter 2019, available to all on the internet.

To learn more about fastexocet, please visit: www.fastexocet.co.uk FOR FURTHER

IN GREAT CHALLENGES, GREAT DETAILS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

We combine technological innovation with craft smanship to produce lifting solutions that rewrite the industry standards.

Our telescopic handlers are designed to overco me any challenge, thanks to unrivalled perfor mance, best-in-class visibility and groundbrea king technological innovations.

Their compact size makes TH models ideal for operation in tight spaces, with unbeatable agility in all operations.

We aim to enable you to work easily in a safe, comfortable environment, so you can be sure of performing at your best every day.

AREN’T ALL OILS BASICALLY THE SAME AND DOES IT REALLY MATTER WHICH YOU USE? AFTER ALL, THE OIL COMPANIES AND EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURERS JUST WANT TO SELL YOU A MORE EXPENSIVE PRODUCT, DON’T THEY?

Well, the short answer is YES they are and NO it doesn’t, but let me explain why. As well as baseline ACEA or API specifications the OEM’s (Original Equipment Manufacturer) also produce their own more targeted specifications for oil.

This specification will be tailored to their particular requirements and will generally use an industry standard as a baseline but include increased severity for certain tests important to that OEM. So often in handbooks you will see recommended an industry specification listed together with the OEM’s own. It has never been more important to follow the manufacturer’s specification requirements. Modern equipment is built on extremely tight tolerances, often use exotic materials, and have extremely sophisticated electronic systems. The lubricant is a fundamental and arguably single most important part of this engineering symphony. It is the only component that comes into contact with

our md, nigel Bottom, Managing Director of witham group and Board Member of the United Kingdom’s Lubricant Association, tells us more…

all moving parts providing a protective film, it must absorb and neutralise acidic compounds caused by fuel combustion. It must be capable, in the case with hybrid vehicles, to cope with long periods of inactivity and still provide immediate protection when required. It must transfer heat, trap contaminants, and hold these in suspension until the next scheduled service amongst many other tasks.

Take a moment to consider exactly what the lubricant is achieving; for example, the average car oil pump will pump approximately 9 litres per minute. The average European engine car engine oil capacity is 4-6 litres, so the entire sump capacity is passing through the engine in less than a minute, every minute for 20,000 miles or in some instances 2-years. Scale this up to commercial vehicles and plant and it’s actually astounding that a fluid is capable of providing this kind of protective performance over this length of time, and it’s only possible because of the exhaustive test work performed by the OEM and additive companies. This will involve extensive laboratory work and field trials costing in many cases millions of dollars and taking years to finalise.

The same is true of all fluids, hydraulic, transmission and final drives all require, to varying degrees documented and verified validation of performance.

Using the correct viscosity is also crucial to the overall performance of the equipment. Viscosity is unarguably the single most important physical property

of a lubricant. Think of it like blood in the human body: if it is too thin, we risk compromised blood pressure, too thick and it will not circulate to the vital organs efficiently enough compromising or even ceasing their function. The same is true of the lubricant, viscosity is absolutely paramount to the trouble-free operation of the equipment.

Using the incorrect OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) specification lubricant in a vehicle can lead to many potential issues:

Increased

Wear and Tear:

The incorrect lubricant may not provide the necessary protection for the components, leading to increased friction and wear.

Reduced Performance:

The vehicle’s performance may be negatively affected, including reduced fuel efficiency and power output.

Damage to Vehicle Components:

Certain components of the vehicle may be damaged if the incorrect lubricant is used. For example, the wrong oil could cause damage to seals, leading to oil leaks or reduce or even render inoperative after-treatment devices such as catalytic converters if the incorrect chemistry is used.

Voided Warranty:

If the vehicle is still under warranty, using the incorrect lubricant could potentially void the warranty.

It’s important to note that an oil that fully meets the OEM specification will not invalidate your warranty. The European Commission operate under the Block Exemption Regulation, which means owners and operators can have their equipment serviced or repaired in any chosen workshop without invalidating their manufacturer’s warranty, as long as the work, parts, and oil are of appropriate and matching standard to that of the manufacturer.

Therefore, it is very important that you use a trusted lubricant partner, one who is expertly qualified to understand the specifications and can demonstrate their products fully meet the OEM requirements. In the unlikely event of a warranty claim your lubricant partner should be able to produce documented third-party proof of compliance with the OEM specification in question ensure validity of the claim.

Can Lower Viscosity Lubricants save fuel?

Fuel is commonly the second largest cost of any commercial fleet whereas lubricants make up less than 1% of a fleet’s total running cost. The equation is temptingly simple: if an operator can use lower viscosity products, even if these are initially more expensive, and this increases fuel efficiency by 1% or more the overall saving will far outweigh the increased lubricant cost.

OEMs are under increasing pressure to reduce emissions, take into consideration the Euro emission decreases over the past couple of decades. In 1994 Euro 1 limits were 6.9 CO (Carbon Monoxide), no limit on NOx (nitrogen oxides) and 0.25 PM. Fast forward 19 years and compare Euro 6e, CO is at 2.27, NOx 0.125 & PM 0.0045. The reduction has been nothing short of astounding and has involved many innovations in both hardware and lubricant design to achieve.

Viscosity has had its part to play in this evolution. The data reveals that lower viscosity fluids create less internal drag within the component. Less drag equals less energy which in turn equals less fuel. Even now the most common

commercial and off-highway viscosity grades are15W-40 & 10W-40 which has been the case for decades. However, there is a fundamental shift from the major manufacturers to lower viscosity products to meet even stricter targets.

For example, the latest Scania LDF-5 specification is a 5W-20 viscosity grade. Mercedes DTFR 15C130 specification is a 5W-30 viscosity, as is the latest Volvo VDS-5. Gear and Transmission fluids are also reducing in many cases from 85W140 to 75W-90 or 75W-80 for exactly the same reason.

SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction), DPF’s (Diesel Particulate Filter) and lighter exotic alloys have all contributed to reductions but fundamentally if you burn less fuel, you produce fewer emissions. But will lower viscosity fluids actually achieve this in the real world? Will there still be a saving when taking into consideration driving style, terrain and type of work.

As an example, imagine two identical engines: one in a commercial haulage truck and one in a council refuse truck. The first is working mainly on A-roads

and motorways, the second is driving 100 yards and idling for 5-minutes and repeats this cycle over and over. Same engine, but different operating conditions which will result in totally different fuel economy.

The trend is clear, longer drain intervals and lower viscosities will continue, and it is likely the commercial market will follow the PCMO (Passenger Car Motor Oil) market in even lower viscosity grades moving forward.

Should you require any help or advice about which oil to use for your vehicles or machinery, Witham Group are here to help. Simply contact us today and we can chat through your requirements or visit and carry out a free technical lubricant survery no matter what type of vehicles and machinery you have.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A PLANT MANAGER

A look at how IPU’s Total System Integration Solutions enhance your daily operations through advanced technology

In the dynamic plant hire industry, equipment reliability and operational efficiency are not just goals but necessities. IPU leads the way with total systems integration solutions designed to boost both efficiency and reliability. Our robust monitoring devices and intuitive control systems ensure that your fleet stays competitive and cost-effective, even in the most demanding conditions.

Join us on a typical day in the life of a plant hire manager, where the integration of IPU’s innovative systems transforms routine challenges into opportunities for efficiency and reliability.

Morning: Kickstarting Operations with PowerCore Controllers

The day begins early for a plant hire manager. Before the first coffee is poured, they check the status of all equipment scheduled for the day’s hire. PowerCore Controllers ensure each piece of machinery is operational and ready for deployment. These robust controllers, capable of withstanding the most challenging environments, seamlessly integrate with various machines, boosting functionality and safeguarding against unexpected downtime.

Mid-Morning: Enhancing User Experience with High-Performance Displays

As the day’s operations begin, the value of high-performance displays becomes evident. These displays provide operators with crystal-clear, real-time data on machine performance and fuel levels in any lighting condition, even direct sunlight. This clarity ensures informed, immediate on-site decisions, enhancing machinery management, reducing escalations, and minimising interruptions. For the plant hire manager, this means smoother operations, allowing for a sharper focus on overall efficiencies and customer satisfaction.

Afternoon: Real-Time Adjustments with Remote Monitoring

By afternoon, the manager monitors the fleet’s performance across different sites. The Remote Monitoring ORB is indispensable, offering real-time tracking of key metrics such as location, fuel usage, and engine hours. When an alert shows a digger operating below efficiency, the ORB’s detailed diagnostics enable quick decision-making – whether rerouting support or scheduling a preventive maintenance check, ensuring no time is lost.

Late Afternoon:

Advanced Control for Unforeseen Challenges

As the day progresses, the uControl system offers rugged, precise hydraulic control, enhancing the effectiveness and reliability of operator actions. In tandem, the IX3212 module upgrades CAN bus control networks by replacing outdated relays and fuses with more dependable solid-state switches. This powerful combination not only strengthens system reliability but also simplifies management, significantly reducing downtime. As a result, plant hire managers can maintain tighter control over fleet operations, experience fewer disruptions, and manage with greater confidence.

Evening: Review and Reporting

As the day winds down, the plant hire manager reviews the day’s operations. The integration of IPU’s systems not only streamlines reporting processes but also provides insights into performance trends and potential improvements, paving the way for smarter, more strategic decisions that boost both customer satisfaction and operational profitability.

The plant hire manager can retire for the evening knowing every piece of equipment is where it should be and in the right condition for another busy day.

Intrigued?

Minimise downtime and enhance productivity with IPU’s integration solutions. Discover more about this technology at https://content.ipu.co.uk/ systems-integration

Join us at Stand RD8 at the Hillhead Show from June 25-27 to see firsthand how our solutions boost machinery reliability and resilience.

UTV PRODUCTS LTD LEADS THE LED REVOLUTION IN CHALLENGING ENVIRONMENTS

You want enhanced safety at work. You want to rid of eye strain when light conditions aren’t optimal. Sure, you’ve worked with LEDs on your machines over the years, and you’ve got by, but you know it’s not enough. You want to optimise your working conditions. You want more than just a standard LED upgrade. Not sure how to get it? You can achieve all of this in a matter of minutes without breaking the bank with a premium upgrade from UTV Products Ltd.

When you install UTV Products, you choose to efficiently manage your working window and prioritise safety wherever you may be working whether that be in an early morning start, a late finish or thousands of feet underground. Can’t believe it? Winsford Salt Mine stands testament to UTV Products’ transformative impacts.

Background: Winsford’s Salt Mine, the largest and oldest operating mine in the U.K., actively sought UTV Products for their machines due to the unforgiving nature of their work environment. As the source of 60% of the UK’s rock salt production, Winsford prioritises productivity, safety and efficiency. By incorporating UTV Products into their

operations, the Salt Mine illuminates even the remotest corners of the mines.

Product Overview: Their Caterpillar 962H has benefitted from the transformative impact of UTV Products, equipped with a set of combination headlights and eight powerful work lights. Now, this CAT boasts just under 70,000 Actual Lumens. What has this helped machine operators to achieve? With a combination of work lights and headlights, operators can light up work close at hand and reach far into the mines, where other light sources can’t reach, allowing operations to be carried out in a safety-enhanced environment without worry of eye fatigue or strain.

Andy, a mechanic who works closely with fitting UTV Products in the Salt Mine, explains “I introduced UTV Products to the Salt Mine at Winsford, starting with work lights. Now, we upgrade many of the plant machines because the extra light is amazing and the operators love it.”

About UTV Products Ltd: Their journey began in 2013 where they have since expanded to become the UK’s leading brand in LED lighting with a growing global presence. But for UTV Products, it’s not just about business; it’s about empowering you with a blend of simplicity,

performance and safety in all your operations. Many have already discovered UTV Products and today take the first step in joining the LED revolution too.

Performance is key with all of their products which is why their LEDs are not only powerful but undergo rigorous Research and Development processes meaning you can rely on the durability of your LEDs. UTV Products are constantly innovating new products and strategic solutions to address the specific needs of your field of work.

But when you buy from UTV Products, you’re not just getting a superior LED – you’re benefitting from years of engineering expertise and support from people who have worked within harsh industries. People who get you.

When we say “Serious Light Matters,” we mean it. Your satisfaction is paramount to us. Welcome to the LED revolution where we get great lights, where we get the harsh environments you work in and where we get you.

MAINTAINING MACHINE OIL CLEANLINESS… IS A BALANCING

Does your machine warranty demand an unachievable ISO Level? It is a challenge to achieve desired contamination control targets due to so many factors;

• Tank / sump size,

• Dirt ingression rates,

• Oil flow rates,

• Operational changes,

• Temperatures,

• Filtration changes,

• Maintenance,

• Repairs,

... this all-influences particle-capture efficiency so the initial solution is to balance how contamination and moisture are removed to a rate greater than contamination ingress.

It is simply impossible to adequately remove contaminants at a sufficient rate with full-flow filtration to maintain this balance. This is not a criticism; it’s just that most standard filtration has to work in ‘full flow’ and cannot allow itself to inhibit the pressures; so the media is just not fine enough to take particle capture

Such as here where the standard filtration has allowed these pieces through to before the cellulose depth filter.

down to smaller sizes, but enough to remove the visible pieces.

Yet most machinery have pumps, or valves that have finer tolerances and will not cope with the next, finer level of contamination not captured in full flow.

OEM often add ‘staged’ filtration to try and address this – so whilst the first level might remove down to 40 micron – the next may take it to 25 micron; but this is often still not enough – and with full flows you will often still see ‘bigger’ pieces being pushed through – as in the picture below.

Where full filtration proves ineffective at maintaining balance, offline filtration –permanent or as routine cleanses – such as KLEENOIL is the solution.

The goal of balanced filtration is to ensure that the oil remains at or below the target cleanliness and dryness level for optimum system reliability.

Routine monitoring will allow for assessments to ensure the balance in cleanliness by tweaking filtration changes or pinpointing looming pump and cylinder wear that can avoid breakdowns.

THOMAS GROUP: PIONEERING GROWTH THROUGH DIVERSIFICATION AND INNOVATION

A Humble Beginning

Since its inception in 2000, Thomas Plant Hire has evolved far beyond its original scope.

Founded by Wyn Thomas in North Wales as a civil engineering and groundworks contracting firm, it has now transformed into Thomas Group, one of the UK’s fastest-growing industry-focused enterprises. Nearly 25 years later, Wyn Thomas leads this dynamic group, which continues to push the boundaries of the plant hire and construction industry.

Ian McMillan, Head of Business Development, narrates the group’s rich history, marked by numerous acquisitions.

“Thomas Group, formerly known as Thomas Plant Hire, was founded by Wyn Thomas, our current Managing Director. Initially a family-run contracting business, Wyn and his daughter Lowri focused on groundwork projects. Over time, Wyn expanded the company by acquiring his own machines. When Wyn didn’t need

some of his machines for certain jobs, he would hire them out around North Wales, where our head office is based. This is how the plant hire business was born and subsequently became its own division within Thomas Group.”

Strategic Growth and Expansion

“Over the last six to seven years, we grew very quickly, opening a small depot in Widnes to complement our original one in North Wales,” McMillan explains. “During that period, our depot network expanded exponentially, and we completed numerous acquisitions. These acquisitions introduced new divisions that shaped the Thomas Group into what it is today. In addition to our self-driving, nationwide plant hire, we retained the contracting division that started it all.”

Diversification and Technology Innovation

One of the real success stories within our group is the Ongrade Machine Control division,

headed by Wayne Stevens. This division specializes in supplying and fitting GPS machine control technologies for major manufacturers such as Leica, Trimble, Topcon, and iDig. Over the past five years, Ongrade Machine Control has tripled its turnover, becoming one of the UK’s leading industry suppliers. With a team of 10 specialist engineers covering the entire UK, the division is at the forefront of innovation in machine control technology.

Wayne Stevens comments: “Our success is a testament to our commitment to staying ahead of technological advancements and providing exceptional service. We’ve worked hard to build a team of experts who ensure that our

clients get the best machine control solutions available.”

Thomas Group’s strategy is defined by diversification and innovation. “We don’t believe in putting all our eggs in one basket,” McMillan notes. This approach led to the creation of Thomas Cabins, offering site accommodation, storage, and welfare units, managed by Darren Hassell.

Key Divisions

Thomas Plant Hire: The original division of Thomas Group, remains a central pillar of the company’s operations. Established with a focus on civil engineering and groundworks, this division has grown significantly, now boasting a fleet of over 4,000 machines, including telehandlers, excavators, dumpers, and dozers. Known for its high standards and meticulous maintenance,

Thomas Plant Hire ensures that all equipment is reliable and efficient. By providing topquality machinery and expert advice, this division supports a wide range of projects across the UK, reinforcing Thomas Group’s reputation for excellence in the plant hire industry.

Thomas Cabins: Offering site accommodation, storage, and welfare units, managed by Darren Hassell. A key division of Thomas Group,

specializes in providing high-quality site accommodation solutions. This division offers a wide range of units, including site offices, storage containers, and welfare facilities, tailored to meet the diverse needs of construction sites and other projects.

Thomas Tool Hire Ltd: A vital division of the Thomas Group, has rapidly expanded its services across the UK. With depots in Deeside, Bolton, and Bangor, Thomas Tool Hire provides a comprehensive range of small tools for hire, sales, and repairs. Known for their exceptional customer service and extensive product knowledge, the division ensures that clients have access to top-quality equipment and expert advice reinforcing Thomas Group’s commitment to excellence in every aspect of their operations.

Thomas Contracting: The foundational division of Thomas Group, continues to thrive under the leadership of General Manager Joe Clarke. As one of the largest groundwork companies in North Wales, it employs over 120 skilled staff and manages 15 active projects. The division has built long-term relationships with major clients and remains a cornerstone of Thomas Group’s success, consistently delivering outstanding results in the construction and civil engineering sectors.

Manton Forklifts: Acquired by Thomas Group in 2019, has quickly become a significant contributor to the company’s success. Specializing in diesel and electric-powered access equipment, Manton Forklifts has doubled its turnover since the acquisition. The division is known for its reliable and versatile forklift solutions, catering to a wide range of industrial needs, ensuring clients have access to the best material handling equipment available.

SOS Hose Services: A specialized division within Thomas Group, plays a crucial role in supporting the plant hire business by offering a comprehensive range of hydraulic hose and fitting

solutions. This division provides a 24-hour on-site service, ensuring that any hose-related issues are promptly addressed, minimizing downtime for clients. By maintaining and repairing hoses for the extensive fleet of machinery in Thomas Plant Hire, SOS Hose Services contributes to a seamless and efficient operation. This integration offers a full 360-degree service for construction projects, enhancing reliability and ensuring that clients receive uninterrupted, high-quality service across all aspects of their needs.

Looking Ahead

Thomas Group has ambitious plans for 2024, including new depots in Stevenage and the Northeast of England, and new offices for Ongrade MC in Tamworth. The group also aims to enhance its profile by participating in major industry shows and exhibitions. “While it’s hard to quantify the return on investment from these shows, they help us connect with potential customers and promote our brand,” McMillan explains.

“Our sustained growth has been through strategic acquisitions,” McMillan continues. “Recent names acquired include Hogg Hire, Kaill Plant, Diggers of Bury, and Hawkrent. Our market reach is ever-extending, with a continued growth of approximately 30% annually in terms of fleet size and turnover. The changeover to Thomas Plant Hire takes place immediately, with all employees retained and Steven Mulholland overseeing operations.”

Conclusion

Thomas Group’s story is one of relentless growth and innovation. By diversifying their services and strategically acquiring complementary businesses, they have positioned themselves as a leader in the plant hire and construction industry, poised for continued success in 2024 and beyond. Wyn Thomas, Managing Director, encapsulates the group’s philosophy: “We’ve always believed in seizing opportunities and not limiting ourselves to one niche. That mindset has been crucial to our success.”

Doyle Machinery Limited has recently acquired a major dealership, enhancing our selection of products and reaffirming our dedication to being ‘The Home of Great Machinery’. For Doyle Machinery Limited’s latest venture, we are expanding our services to offer a variety of machinery tailored for the Arboriculture and Forestry industry.

Jippe Ufkes in 2004, initially specialized in selling and servicing woodchippers, stump grinders, wood cranes, and tree cutters from various brands in the forestry and landscaping sector. Shortly after, Jippe ventured into creating his own line of machinery, leading to the company’s remarkable success.

for “Technical innovations for efficient solutions, that’s Ufkes Greentec!”

Doyle Machinery Limited will be showcasing at Hillhead this year at Stand D17 where you can explore our wide selection of machinery on display. Our Area Sales Managers will be there to assist you with any questions you may have, or simply to share a friendly chat over a drink or two. We are committed to providing top-quality machinery and excellent service, and we look forward to showing you why we are ‘The Home of Great Machinery.’

We are thrilled to share that we have become the Dealers for UFKES Greentec, offering the Forest Line range of wood chippers, stump grinders, and attachments.

UFKES Greentec, established by

The machinery from UFKES Greentec stands out for its durable construction, advanced technology, easy maintenance, and tailor-made solutions.

As the Forest Line Dealer, we offer Wood Chipper models up to 90cm and up to 900hp. Each designed to exceed your expectations and enhance your business productivity. Known

Come join us and experience the Doyle Machinery difference first hand.

CRUSHERS, SCREENERS & AGGREGATES

Office: 03330 433322

Email: info@doylemachinery.co.uk

Web: www.doylemachinery.co.uk

The Home of Great Machinery

We are delighted to welcome a new brand to our machinery portfolio and collaborate with UFKES Greentec to expand their dealer network, in collaboration with Mark Jibson, UFKES Greentec UK, who serves as the Park Line Dealer throughout the UK.

To learn more about Doyle Machinery Limited, please visit: www.doylemachinery.co.uk

Address: Long Lane Farm, Ascot Road, Holyport, Maidenhead SL6 3LG

CPA CONFERENCE 2024 TO DISCUSS SHAPING THE FUTURE OF THE PLANT-HIRE SECTOR

The Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) has announced that the CPA Conference 2024 will be hosted on Thursday 7th November 2024 and the theme will be ‘Shaping the Future: Insights for the Plant-hire Sector’. The one-day event will be held at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre in Fillongley near Coventry.

The CPA Conference is organised by the CPA, the longest established trade association for the plant-hire sector in the UK. The CPA has over 1,900 members who supply 85% of hired plant to the construction industry. Delegate tickets can be booked online at www.cpa. uk.net/events/cpa-conference-2024

The standard delegate ticket price to attend the conference is £80 plus VAT (£96) and CPA members can take advantage of a 50% discount, paying £40 plus VAT (£48). Please email enquiries@ cpa.uk.net for details of how to claim the CPA member discount.

Merryn Myatt will be hosting the CPA

Conference 2024. Merryn – a former television presenter, newsreader and journalist who previously worked with the BBC, ITV and Channel 4 – has hosted the CPA Conference for several years. This year Merryn will have a co-host – Peter Haddock – who is well known throughout the plant-hire industry as a content, social media and PR specialist, journalist and vlogger.

The CPA Conference 2024 will bring together a number of panel speakers discussing how organisations can shape the future of the plant-hire sector. Merryn Myatt and Peter Haddock will lead a number of interactive panel debates discussing key topics such as innovation, decarbonisation, digitalisation, skills, business growth, succession planning and mental health and wellbeing in the construction sector.

As well as attending the Conference, delegates will also have the opportunity to visit a number of exhibitors. The CPA Conference 2024 will be held in association with headline sponsor

MHM Group and exhibitors already confirmed include Acrow Bridge, CESAR Powered by Datatag, CITB, Capja, Conquip, GGR Group, Genquip Groundhog, Plant Planet, Point of Rental Software, Plantworx, Prolectric, Record360, Rouse Services, Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), Spartan Solutions and Thomas Group. A limited number of exhibition spaces are still available. For further information, please contact Lisa Collins on 07968 840390 or email: lisa@lisacollinscommunications.co.uk

CPA President Brian Jones said: “This will be the ninth CPA Conference we have held and we felt this year’s event should address the core issues that are of importance right now to CPA members and the wider construction industry. Last year’s CPA Conference theme was ‘Facing the Challenges’ and the CPA Conference 2024 has moved on to discussing how attendees can help shape the future of the industry and provide solutions. It’s gearing up to be a great event and it’s excellent that there has been so much interest in it already.”

The CPA is in the process of confirming the panel speakers participating in the event and there will be a total of five panel debates throughout the day, namely:

• Panel Session 1: The Plant-hire Sector in 2024

Where the Industry Currently Sits in the Wider Economic and Political Context

An opportunity to hear first-hand on how the sector is currently performing, the wider political and economic context, and what we can expect to see moving forward.

• Panel Session 2: The Innovative Plant-hire Company

Insights into Current and Future Developments and Innovations in the Sector

The plant-hire sector is experiencing a period of huge change and developments as the challenge of decarbonisation and the impact of digitalisation and AI become increasingly a feature of the sector.

• Panel Session 3: Expanding the Skills Base

Where do we Stand in the Battle for Skills, What Progress is Being Made in Attracting New People to the Industry – Especially Women?

The fight for skills remains as important as ever, with construction competing against a range of other industries. This session will explore what progress is being made in the plant-hire sector, and what more needs to be overcome both in attracting but also retaining talent.

• Panel Session 4: Growing your Business – What Next?

The Challenge of Growth and Succession Planning

The plant-hire sector remains an attractive place for growth and investment. This session will explore the growth strategies that firms are deploying, plus how companies can approach the challenge of succession planning.

• Panel Session 5: Focus on Mental Health and Wellbeing in the Construction Sector

Construction remains one of the most vulnerable sectors to ill health, both physical and mental. This session will hear directly on the work the Lighthouse Club engage in and hear the practical steps companies are taking to help their workforce.

www.cpa.uk.net/events/

FUNDING HELPS LEAD TO THE RECOVERY OF STOLEN PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Funding by the Construction Planthire Association (CPA) and other organisations is having a direct impact on the successful recovery of stolen plant equipment, says Police Superintendent Andy Huddleston who heads up the National Rural Crime Unit and the National Construction & Agriculture Theft Team (NCATT).

Late last year, the CPA made a threeyear commitment to fund £90,000 to help fight plant equipment theft and fraud, which is costing the construction plant industry millions every year. With additional funding from the Construction Equipment Association (CEA), CESAR donors and insurers, a total of £650,000 is being contributed collectively to help fund NCATT – a specialist team of police officers that cover the whole of the country to help tackle the theft of construction plant and equipment by organised criminal groups.

Police Superintendent Andy Huddleston said: “Just one example of what we do was the excellent work to identify a lorry load of stolen plant and through police contacts stop it before it was loaded onto a ferry to be taken out of the country late one night. Eight stolen machines were found, including six that were taken from an auction site in Yorkshire. This comes directly on the back

of the funding given to us by the CPA, CEA, CESAR donors and insurers.

“The newly created NCATT is already making a huge difference in helping recover stolen plant which is becoming even more prevalent. In this calendar year up to April, we have successfully recovered stolen plant and equipment worth over £1.7m, and the total value of the unit’s recoveries in 2023 was over £6.1m. We are a small unit and whilst we can’t support every theft investigation, what we are able to do is making a tangible difference and I thank the industry for its crucial support in helping us do this,” he added.

Global events such as the conflict in Ukraine are driving up demand for stolen goods, with a 200% increase in the theft of construction plant and agricultural equipment in the UK. Prior to the war in Ukraine, between 40-70 high value machines were typically stolen in one month. But in a single month last year, over 200 machines were stolen nationwide and for the last 18 months thefts have been over 110 machines every month.

The CPA is also helping its members to recover stolen equipment by sharing information amongst its 1,900+ members. In a recent instance, all CPA members were notified of the theft of

a low loader full of kit. Within 24 hours of the information being shared, the stolen equipment was found by a fellow CPA member, leading to its successful recovery and return to its rightful owner.

CPA President Brian Jones said: “It’s excellent news that our funding is helping lead to the recovery of stolen plant, which is a massive problem costing our industry huge amounts of money, stress and lost revenue. We have over 1,900 members at the CPA and we feel it’s very important that the membership funds go back towards helping them.

“Theft and fraud have a significant and increasingly damaging effect on our members’ businesses and our £90,000 contribution to the work of NCATT will bring immediate, tangible benefits to our members in preventing and detecting criminal activity and the recovery of illegally obtained plant-hire equipment.”

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

For further information, please contact: Lisa Collins, Lisa Collins Communications. Tel: 07968 840390, E-mail: lisa@ lisacollinscommunications.co.uk

RAIL LIVE 2024

Rail Live 2024, taking place 19th - 20th June 2024 ‎at the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre, Warwickshire, is the UK’s only rail exhibition that takes place in a real rail environment, and delivers both strategic insight and operational excellence by experts in their fields.

What’s new for 2024?

• NEW Engineering theatre - learn how the rail industry is moving forward towards a more environmentally sustainable future, and find out what you can do to align with the industry.

• NEW Business Lounge - a quiet place to answer emails and calls whilst at the event

Extra features to highlight as to why your audience should attend Rail Live:

• Build relationships directly with Network Rail and HS2 in order to win new business and contribute to the future of the railway

• Advance your career by building connections and joining sessions delivered by industry experts - with 6,000+ visitors in attendance, 78%+ of the audience has decision-making power or influence.

• Evaluate 290+ suppliers and make fast, informed decisions in a real railway environment to directly compare pieces of kit

• See new innovations and technology in action to improve your workplace practices, including safety, productivity, and sustainability.

With rail professionals from across the industry in attendance and 270+ suppliers to connect with, this is not something you can afford to miss out on.

Secure your spot – register today!

To learn more about Rail Live, please visit: www.www.raillive.org.uk

VETERANS’ CHARITY IS DRIVING FORCE TO GET EX-MILITARY PERSONNEL INTO NEW HGV DRIVING CAREERS – AS MORE BIG NAMES PLEDGE SUPPORT!

Veterans into Logistics – a charity that trains and mentors former Armed Forces personnel into new careers as HGV drivers – is celebrating a successful 2024 so far! More big names have come on board to pledge their support to ex-forces who are looking for a new career after leaving the military.

Preventing unemployment and homelessness for military veterans

The charity’s mission is to prevent unemployment and homelessness among military veterans and Armed Forces service leavers. Founded by former Royal Artillery Airborne Gunner Darren Wright in memory of his former Army friend, Jamie Doyle, the charity believes a career in logistics can provide the stability and structure as well as good pay deserved by those who have served their country.

More big names pledge their support to the charity

After a successful first four years with ongoing support from big names including Asda Logistics Services, Mϋller UK & Ireland and Stobart, this year has seen Thomas Hardie Commercials Ltd (the main distributor for Volvo Trucks, Bus and Coach in the North West of England, North Wales and Lancashire), Enterprise UK & Ireland, NWF Fuels, Workforce Recruitment Group, Boughey Distribution Ltd, TRS Training, Armstrong Logistics, Bunzl Retail Supplies and Fullers Logistics all announcing their support to the charity by signing up to the Veterans into Logistics Patron Scheme, enabling the charity to continue its vital work.

The charity currently helps over a hundred veterans a year by paying for driver training, HGV licence and medical costs. The charity is then able to facilitate employment with one of its many partners including Asda, Mϋller UK & Ireland and Stobart who return to the charity for their HGV drivers after being impressed with their loyalty, dedication and hard-working attitude from their time

in the military. The charity is unique as it not only provides or facilitates HGV driver training, but as the trainers are ex-military themselves, they provide mentoring and guidance during what can be a daunting time for some as they make the transition to civilian life.

Strong partnership with Asda Logistics Services

Veterans into Logistics has established a strong partnership with Asda Logistics Services. In March, Founder Darren Wright presented ALS with a special PLATINUM PARTNER plaque in recognition of the company’s tremendous support and the company now displays the Veterans into Logistics logo on their trucks.

In March, the supermarket giant announced Veterans into Logistics as one of their charities of the year and will hold fundraising events across their depots. Their first event – an awards night celebrating achievements within the haulage industry and compèred by Shaun Williamson, aka Barry from EastEnders - raised an incredible £54,957 for the charity!

Thomas Hardie I-Save demonstrator

In April, the charity was delighted to see the Veterans into Logistics logo and branding on PLATINUM PARTNER, Thomas Hardie’s Volvo I-Save demonstrator truck. They kindly named the vehicle “The Jamie Doyle” in memory of the former British Army soldier and friend of our Founder, Darren Wright –who is the inspiration for our charity and mission.

The demonstrator truck will be used by companies to test drive the new energyefficient Volvo I-Save and it will also visit shows and events across the North West.

Support from The Veterans’ Foundation

In March, Veterans into Logistics’ Founder, Darren Wright was interviewed for a poignant video for The Veterans’ Foundation to help promote The

Veterans’ Foundation Lottery. This was an emotional filming day for Darren as he spoke about his life from his days in the British Army, PTSD diagnosis and reaching rock bottom. His inspirational story which led to setting up Veterans into Logistics and helping hundreds of veterans into employment is available to view on social media.

Working with HMP Risley and HMP Thorn Cross

The charity is also achieving success in helping with the rehabilitation of veterans serving time in prison who are coming to the end of their sentences. Working with HMP Risley and HMP Thorn Cross, Veterans into Logistics has established a programme providing a pathway into an HGV driving career upon release.

Founder and former Royal Artillery Airborne Gunner Darren Wright said: “I would like to thank all the companies and individuals who are supporting Veterans into Logistics in what has been a fantastic year for the charity so far.

“I am passionate about advocating for former military personnel who deserve a new career after leaving the forces. To see our charity logo on our patrons’ trucks including Asda, Armstrongs Logistics and Fullers Logistics shows how far our charity has come in the last four years. I’m humbled when I hear big companies telling me how they support what we do and wanting to help ex-military personnel into new careers to thank them for their service.

“With approximately 15,000 men and women leaving the military each year, we are always looking for more support to ensure we can place those who come to us through our fully funded training and into stable employment as they make the transition to civilian life.”

Here’s to the future!

It’s been a superb 2024 so far for Veterans into Logistics! The charity is so grateful for the support it receives and the interest people are taking at truck shows and recruitment events. Veterans into Logistics will continue its vital work helping those who need it with fully funded HGV Driver training and mentoring into new logistics careers!

Today’s Challenges in Fleet Productivity and How to Solve Them

Equipment owners face many challenges throughout the lifecycle of their fleet – from downtime on an asset to complex supply chain disruptions. Let’s take downtime as an example. You’re going to have both upstream and downstream challenges on a downed asset, and things start getting complicated from an administrative point of view when you tack on items such as lost work, unforeseen labour costs, paperwork, and consistent pressures from competitors.

If you have a downed crane on a job site, not only have the hours and materials connected to that crane been halted (upstream), but more issues will begin stacking up against each other like dominoes and create additional problems going forward (downstream) that may or may not be under your control.

What it always boils down to is time, and to ensure that you lose less time on downed assets while gaining a longer lifecycle with consistent, quality service, you’ll need to consider incorporating business solutions to help with productivity. Tightening up your fleet management process can provide a better, more efficient business.

How do you make your business more efficient?

You lose money on downed or idle equipment. It’s that simple. Greater equipment uptime can push you to greater revenue, earnings, and profitability. SmartEquip, a parts procurement and productivity platform, can drive up your earnings with more efficient management of what you already have in your fleet instead of another big spend to add more high-end assets. It works by connecting to your Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to automatically update work orders and purchase orders. Nothing can have as strong an impact on your bottom line than finding and combining multiple ways to reduce equipment downtime.

The incremental improvements in equipment usage and maintenance designed by SmartEquip can drive your bottom line the most.

For example, equipment hire businesses track equipment usage through a variety of uptime measures, and the two most common are time utilisation and financial utilisation. Time utilisation covers the amount of time a piece of equipment is rented and receiving revenue, while financial utilisation provides revenue information relative to the investment value of a fleet (i.e. the “financial yield” of the assets). Neither of these metrics, however, offers much about the contribution of uptime improvements to a company’s overall profitability.

Even when you consider the total annual costs of purchasing, servicing, maintaining, and managing a fleet, it doesn’t provide the full value of improving uptime. The incremental improvements in equipment usage and maintenance designed by SmartEquip can drive your bottom line the most.

Let’s turn our attention to the cost of parts as an example. Most equipment owners, generally, prefer to keep their annual costs for parts at around 3% of the original equipment cost (OEC). The cost of parts collides with the cost of labour when the parts are finally in the hands of service technicians. For example, for a typical rental fleet, the labour cost is also around 3% — and we’ve now doubled the “true” cost of parts.

But even this combined 6% cost is less expensive than downtime. Avoiding equipment downtime via streamlined service and parts ordering will improve equipment availability and drive earnings. With SmartEquip Procurement, you’ll be enhancing revenue where it matters most and keep incremental costs low.

SmartEquip’s single-login user interface and extensive parts catalogues put procurement specialists in greater control. Behind a robust network of global suppliers, SmartEquip can help you keep your fleet agile and ready to meet any market demands.

The start of SmartEquip

Alexander Schuessler, SmartEquip founder & president, International Group

Did you know that SmartEquip was the first company designed to help equipment businesses save time through streamlined access to parts and procurement in a digital world?

“It’s very natural for everybody to say time is unbelievably expensive,” SmartEquip founder & president of International Group Alexander Schuessler explained on the Rental Journal Podcast. “If my service person spends twice as much time on something, that’s really, really costly. If my machine is down, it’s really costly. I tell people we were very early coming up with the SmartEquip concept back in 2000. People assume we were early because the technology wasn’t there, and that’s true, but it was really early because we went to rental companies and said, ‘Hey, you’re going to save a lot of time,’ and they said, ‘Why do I care?’ The mindset wasn’t quite there yet.

“Nowadays, everybody is talking about uptime and preventing downtime and predictive maintenance so [equipment] never breaks down. All these things today are very much natural, but they weren’t when we started, even though they were very much our key performance indicators.”

Founded in 2000, SmartEquip initially set off to spearhead improvements in equipment uptime while connecting workflows to reduce costs for servicing diverse fleets. To understand the genesis of SmartEquip, you need to understand the challenges facing the global equipment industry back in the 1990s, particularly the emergence of rentals as the primary transaction and a Wall Street buying spree that consolidated many small and middle-market fleet rental companies. After assisting Caterpillar, Inc. in building a world-class rental operation in South America, Schuessler quickly grasped that efficient parts and product support for rental companies was virtually non-existent. SmartEquip has come a long way since those halcyon days of the new millennium.

Today, SmartEquip supports more than 700 OEM brands, with over 90,000 technicians and users across more than 70,000 locations. Supporting more than $1 billion in annual transactions, SmartEquip’s team is comprised of experts in construction, technology, and the data sciences.

As the leader in equipment lifecycle management, service, and procurement support for the global construction industry, SmartEquip was acquired by Ritchie Bros. in 2021 to become part of their suite of ancillary services and now exists within the RB Global, Inc. portfolio of brands.

“There was such a match in solutions that really was quite amazing,” Schuessler said of the synergy he found with the Ritchie Bros. approach to asset lifecycles.

What does it mean to manage the lifecycle of a piece of equipment?

The equipment lifecycle spans from an asset’s first acquisition to its eventual disposition, and every stage in between including utilisation, maintenance, downtime, and relocation/ redeployment. Efficiently managing that lifecycle helps owners get the most out of their machines to maximize their return on investment (ROI). It all starts with finding reputable sources to purchase from that offer a simple and efficient buying experience allowing businesses to easily get what they need, and within their budget.

“For me the lifecycle economics are very simple,” Schuessler said. “There’s a cost when I first purchase a piece of equipment, and then factored into this equation, I know that at the end of its life with me… I get some money when I sell it. So, the difference between the two is a big part of my lifecycle costs.

“And then while I have it,” he continued, “I have to do two things: I have to feed it service … there’s maintenance, there’s repair … and to do all that I have to buy parts. Those are really the only two things.”

The intersection of these costs – from acquisition to resale, parts and service, and depreciation – is where SmartEquip comes in.

The SmartEquip platform integrates seamlessly with ERP systems – handling everything from inventory, parts procurement, work orders, and more – and is uniquely positioned for continued growth in support of an evolving and dynamic industry. How do we know this? SmartEquip is helping the five largest equipment hire businesses in the world streamline parts procurement and service, extending asset lifecycles, and positioning these companies to benefit if and when the time finally comes to sell their equipment.

Leveraging Enterprise Resource Planning Systems

Rental and construction fleets are not unlike other companies in that they have a very specific way of executing day-to-day operations. These processes are often centralized in an ERP system that houses critical data aimed at effectively doing business. Digital business management solutions have flooded all industries, and these systems will continue to evolve and improve. SmartEquip’s integration helps these systems work even more intelligently for your business, improving the existing flow of data and driving immediate gains.

SmartEquip is helping the five largest equipment hire businesses in the world streamline parts procurement and service

Implementing an ERP system into your business and integrating SmartEquip into that system will bring practical and incremental enhancements to your operations, driving efficiency forward over time:

• Manage inventory: When searching for parts to place an order, SmartEquip will show you if you already have those parts in your inventory, even at another shop.

• Reduce data entry: When you place an order, SmartEquip sends data (part numbers, descriptions, pricing, etc.) to the ERP system, preventing duplicate administrative efforts.

• Automate master records: When a part is ordered for the first time, SmartEquip creates the master record, issues purchase orders, and preps everything needed to send that order.

• Access parts manuals: When new equipment is added to a fleet, information about the asset is sent to SmartEquip and mapped to the manufacturer parts catalogue. This allows the user to simply enter an asset number for quick access to a parts catalogue for that unit.

• Cut wrench time: Get the parts you need fast, keeping your labour costs down and your equipment out of the shop generating revenue.

“Pretty much all the [ERP systems] you would have heard of, we do have integration,” Schuessler said.

“And we quite often partner up with these companies, and they’re eager to do this because for them, it’s an additional service that can be provided to their users. There are still quite a few rental companies that build their own (ERP). It’s becoming more rare but is still not entirely uncommon … and we then have to [build] specific integrations with their system, and we work with them.”

Integrating SmartEquip into your ERP system provides centralized management of practically all day-to-day aspects of your equipment business. Stop worrying about multiple logins or separate systems. Cut down paperwork, redundancies, and unnecessary errors. Harmonizing your operational and administrative processes with SmartEquip will result in real savings in both time and resources.

Why do equipment hire companies and contractors join the SmartEquip Network?

The SmartEquip Equipment Owner Network can increase three primary business efficiencies: parts, service, and the back office. For over 20 years, SmartEquip has been building a global network of suppliers to support its equipment owner customer network. So why do equipment owners join?

• Reduce ordering and administrative costs. Time is money. With SmartEquip Procurement, technicians and fleet managers can identify and order the right parts without flipping through manuals – all in one place. Just imagine greatly reducing paperwork, troubleshooting, and recordkeeping.

• Your brand – your terms. SmartEquip’s centralized procurement guarantees your team members will be ordering approved parts – and at pricing levels commensurate with any supplier agreement you have. Greater compliance and current pricing? That’s a win-win.

• Improved uptime. Quickly identifying the right part gets the order in and your equipment up and running in less time. Greater uptime is achieved through faster identification and sourcing of the part. Over $1 billion in parts are ordered over the Network every year.

With other tech solutions, you find one party gaining something at the expense of another party, but this isn’t the case with a SmartEquip Network solution.

“This is emphatically a positive-sum solution,” Schuessler said. “Dealers receive more accurate orders, can operate with lower inventory levels, while offering a much higher level of customer support at a much-reduced cost to them.”

• Protection from parts supersession. Parts numbers change over the years, even if the base machine model/ naming doesn’t. SmartEquip will save you this hassle and protect you by keeping supplier support and product information up to date.

• Access to over 700 brands. Most fleets are not made up of a single manufacturer. The SmartEquip Manufacturer and Supplier Network’s global reach is continually expanding across the globe. Where else can you order parts from five manufacturers on a single platform? Nowhere.

The industry has taken notice with SmartEquip now supporting the five largest construction equipment rental companies in the world, including United Rentals, Sunbelt Rentals, Aktio, Loxam, and Herc, alongside approximately 100 rental fleets across North America, Europe, and Japan.

At the end of the day, SmartEquip saves time and money. Greater service efficiency and the subsequent revenue improvement due to increased equipment availability are trumping savings in other areas.

“For every hour in service time cost savings, equipment availability goes up an hour, as well,” Schuessler said. “This revenue impact on profitability is often greater than the cost savings upon which the original business case was built –therefore resulting in a more-than doubling of financial impact.”

SmartEquip provides a seamless brand-enhancement for fleet owners, manufacturers, and distributors of complex assets and helps increase equipment uptime and transaction accuracy, while drastically reducing labour and equipment ownership costs. Learn more about SmartEquip at www.smartequip.com

Mining and Quarrying | A Brief History

I don’t know about you, but when I think about mining, my brain goes one of two ways; its either a northern bloke covered in coal dust holding a little canary in a cage, or it’s that guy from the golden nuggets cereal box. A well rounded view… said no one ever.

Mining, in actual fact, is one of the oldest industries in the world (except for maybe prostitution), dating all the way back to the neolithic era, where flint was the main order of the day. It’s certainly the oldest industry in good old blighty; we were doing really well with our Celtic mines until the Romans turned up and took over. In fact, you can still visit some of these ancient mining sights today! An example of a neolithic flint mine in Britain is Grimes graves, in Norfolk, and was in operation from 2600-2300 BCE. It was discovered by William Greenwell in 1868.

Its hard to believe that once upon a time, all mining was done by hand. Crazy, if you think about it. A job that would take our modernday miners a matter of months could drag on for YEARS in ancient times. Not only this, but they were often a royal affair. In Ancient Egypt, where the building works were commissioned by the Pharoah himself! Gebel el Ahmar, one of the most famous of the Egyptian Quarries, was located near modern day Cairo on the east bank of the Nile. Gebel el Ahmar means Red Mountain, and was a site steeped in religious importance, staying production during the times of some of the most famous of Ancient Egypt’s Kings, including good old King Tut. The quarry was directed by a foreman whose title was “Chief of the King’s Works”, which I’m sure most of today’s foremen would love; it is certainly a snazzy title.

Even if you look at our own buildings here in Britain, it seems unfathomable that they were built and sourced by hand. The Tower of London, as an example, took hundreds of years, and many many MANY different kings to finish. And that stone doesn’t just come from anywhere. Thank goodness that we have the giant quarrying machines to aid the miners today!

Take a look at the world’s ancient mining highlights:

Mining and Quarrying

A (Very) Quick Timeline of the Interesting Bits

4000-3000 BCE – Oldest known mine established is the Ngwenya Mine in Eswanti, Swaziland, and was used by Paleolithic humans to mine hematite, which makes the red pigment ochre.

2694-2134 BCE – Ancient Egyptians mine for building materials such as basalt, granite, travertine, limestone and sandstone. It carried on all the way through to the Roman period (30BCE – 394AD)

7 BCE – Marble is quarried by the Parians on the island of Thassos. Such marble was used in the tomb of Amphipolis.

1 BCE – the Romans begin to develop large scale mining methods, particularly hydraulic mining, using large volumes of water provided by their famous aqueducts.

1066 – 1071 AD – the Normans used limestone mined in Kent and Sussex to build famous British landmarks St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London.

1627 AD – Black powder is used for the first time in Selmecbάnya in the Kingdom of Hungary, now modern day Slovakia.

1850s AD – Australia’s gold rush leads to 40% of the world’s gold coming from there. This in turn means the establishment of a variety of large scale mines, including Mount Morgan Mine, which ran almost 100 years.

1984-1985 AD – The miners of the British Coal Industry go on strike due to Maggie Thatcher’s drive to reduce the power of trade unions. Journalist Seumas Milne is quoted as saying: “there is no real parallel in size, duration and impact, anywhere in the world.”

2000s AD – The fully globalised mining industry is in full effect, it has since called into question a number of environmental concerns that have led to several laws being passed restricting its adverse impact on the natural world.

Scotplant 2024 Big, Bright, and Blue

Scotland’s biggest construction show was back again, showcasing the very best that the industry has to offer!

Editor Rebecca Phillps gives the lowdown on Plant Planet’s day at Scotland’s premier construction event.

It must be said, Plant Planet was exceedingly excited to be visiting Scotplant for the very first time. Moving from Glasgow to the Royal Highland Centre in Edinburgh, Scotland’s premier construction show was back in full swing.

Taking place on the 26th and 27th April, these two jam-packed days had plenty to offer both construction industry professionals and general enthusiasts alike. This made it a fantastic day out for everyone who wandered through its door, with sunglasses and hats at the ready for the sunny days ahead. In fact, the weather was so truly glorious that both Darren and I got sunburnt! Not something I’d anticipated but hey, serves me right for expecting rain.

The atmosphere was fantastic, with bright happy tunes courtesy of the Red Hot Chilli Pipers welcoming us all into the fold from Buckweld’s stand in the outdoor arena. It was a feast for the senses in every respect. Split into the outdoor arena and Lowland Hall, the inside exhibition, Scotplant organisers had thought of absolutely everything a crowd could want.

Lowland Hall

Capja

Our first stop was to the wonderful Josh at Capja. Showcasing their incredible data capturing software, the team were keen to demonstrate just how revolutionary their tech is to the construction industry. Easy-to-use and highly innovative, the Capja platform simplifies machinery, staff and asset management, taking traditional information handling to an entirely new level. They were also kind enough to save our aching arms, and stored the plethora of luggage we were hauling around the show. Not only that, but Josh shared a fantastic video for our socials which captures the show perfectly. Thank you guys!

NPORS

Also welcoming visitors inside was NPORS, whose incredible plant machinery simulator gave everyone the chance to practice their skills as an operator, even children as young as 3! The amazing training company brought along its state-of-the-art Tenstar simulator, which included programmes for telehandler, dumpers and even a tilting motion base for realism. I will say, they did their best to encourage me to have a go but seeing the skill of the kids having a go, I chickened out. Nevertheless, it was a resounding success for their stand!

Outdoor Exhibition

Scottish Plant Owners Association (SPOA)

A real highlight was getting to meet and speak with the SPOA, a superb organisation that puts the needs of operators right at the forefront of their values. They themselves boasted an amazing show, with over 1,000 visitors to their stand. The particular lure seemed to be their Tenstar operator simulator, meaning both adults and children alike could try their hand at plant operation. It’s a truly fantastic way to introduce the next generation to the world of construction!

John Sibbald, President of the Scottish Plant Owners Association (SPOA) and director of Sibbald Training, seemed thoroughly pleased with the show’s success, and is quoted as saying this about the Scottish Plant Operator Challenge qualifier, which was hosted at the SPOA stand: “It’s been very busy today. I think the weather’s helped. It’s great to see so many children here as well. There will be kids who leave here today and will have careers in the plant industry in 20 years’ time.” We couldn’t agree more and look forward to seeing them strut their stuff in the years to come.

Mark Griston and Erin McBride (from Peebles Media Group) really did themselves proud, organising a thoroughly immersive experience, now meaning that 2024 is heralded as SPOA’s best Scotplant to date. Now one has to wonder, what will 2026 have in store for the SPOA’s Scotplant stand?

Rototilt

One of the first stands at the entrance to the outdoor showground, I happily snapped away photo after photo as Darren got chatting with Andy Little, Operations Manager. TILTROTATOR manufacturer Rototilt was thrilled to exhibit the RC range, which includes the RC1 (for excavators between 1.5 and 3.5 tonnes), RC2 (3- 6.5 tonnes), RC3 (6-12 tonnes), and RC4 (10- 16 tonnes).

Andy described the new RC series as “the beginning of a new era of tiltrotators”, and seeing them in person, we couldn’t agree more! This impressive bit of kit uses pressure-compensated hydraulics, which ensure optimum parallel operation of the machine’s functions as well as a smoother operating experience. Also on display was the Rototilt R4 Quick Change unit, which was fitted to a Liebherr 914, along with a variety of attachments. It perfectly illustrated how easy it was for the operator to swap from one to the other, all while never setting foot outside the cab! Talk about a health and safety marvel!

Thomas Plant Hire

The impressive display in their signature blue was easy to spot amongst the waves of people. The Thomas team were out in force to talk about all their fantastic hire options, proving just how dedicated they are to customer experience and satisfaction. Speaking to Ian McMillan, he was delighted to tell us what a wonderfully busy day they’d had. “It’s been a great day. Lots of foot traffic and some fantastic conversations had.”

King Trailers

It was fantastic to meet James Richmond at King Trailers, who design, manufacture and service trailers and plant body trucks for not just the construction industry, but across all market sectors. In the business for over 60 years, King Trailers’ bespoke manufacturing approach has led to the building of specialist trailers for those who need them. Be it standard or specialist, King Trailers has an option for you, something that James was all to happy to detail to us:

“We’re there for whatever is needed. We have an in-house sales team and supply nationally. Not only that, but as we keep so many spare parts in stock, we can help with repairs at a pinch.”

National Pile Croppers

It was a show of many introductions for us at Plant Planet, and another great moment was meeting the guys at National Pile Croppers. The personal touch that they boast was demonstrated perfectly as we chatted to Stephen Wyber:

“Each region has a specific person dedicated to it, so you’ll definitely speak to the best person in the know.”

And given their wonderful range of specialist equipment, it’s just as well, as whatever the need, National Pile Croppers seem to have the solution.

2026

Set to return in two years’ time, Plant Planet thoroughly looks forward to returning to this amazing show that did the organisers and Scotland proud!

JOIN US AT HILLHEAD 2024

Explore the full range of CASE products and services, tailored to meet your construction business needs

25-27 JUNE

Hillhead Quarry, Buxton, Derbyshire, UK

Stand X10

Life With Lana // Out on Site

Lana takes Plant Planet editor, Becks, through the highs and lows of life on site, detailing her current experience of the Ward and Burke project in Ellesmere Port, England.

After a stunning response to our very first ‘Life with Lana’, I’m sure you’re all crying out ‘for goodness sake, tell us more about her work’ and ‘Becks, no one cares how horribly lost you got, your lack of geographical know-how is both famous and boring!’ Well, first of all, that’s very rude. I can’t believe you’d say something like that to me, even if it is true. And second, you’re absolutely right, let’s look properly at the life of Lana Edwards.

This project for Ward and Burke in the Welsh/ English border began in January 2024 with Lana joining in early spring. What began as the Vauxhall Hooton House offices will very soon become the Warde and Burke hub.

As with many plant operators, Lana is an early riser and a late finisher, and always has time to catch the beautiful sunrise on her way out of the door (she puts my photography to shame, folks). Whilst most of us are only just surfacing to stumble to the bathroom and blindly search for our toothbrushes, Lana is likely already up and on her way to site. Her incredible dedication and work ethic is evident at every opportunity, especially when I’m begging for another phone catch up.

“My breaks are 10ish and 1ish. Always a lot of ‘ishs’.” I tell ya folks, pinning her down ain’t easy. But when I do finally get a moment with the wonderful woman, I’m lucky to have the privilege to talk her ear off and receive all the wisdom she has to offer.

What astounds me each and every time we do finally manage to sit down for a chit chat, is just how far the project progresses with every photo I see. When I was at the site, wrapped up in Lana’s very kindly donated high vis, there were mountains of dirt littering the skyline. The ground was wet and earthy, and I nearly lost my boot to the deep squelch!

Now? It’s unrecognisable.

Looking at the latest photos, you wouldn’t think there had ever been an excavator sitting on the pride rock of all mud piles, looking down over the site like a lion ready to belt out a song. It makes a lot of sense though. Watching Lana work: the smooth, precise press of her bucket along the dirt, the agile spin from dirt scoop to dump truck, the constant check for correct levelling – it all adds up to an incredible transformation. Especially as there have been many times, where she is the only driver on site.

What began with a big old muck shift, moved soon to stoving down the dirt, swiftly to levelling and sectioning for concrete, and then the installation of drains. The project is certainly continuing well.

The muck away portion is near to done, and every day sees more stone incoming ready to build up to level.

“All pretty standard,” assures Lana.

“But don’t you get tired?” I ask constantly.

I’m always met with a light laugh or a shrug. “It’s just part of the job.”

So, the big question remains, what keeps Lana going through these long slogs on her trusty steed… or excavator as those in the business call them. We know, of course, just how talented Lana is. I’ve seen it with my own eyes, and if you check out her socials and ours, you’ll see for yourself how truly incredible her work is. But as we all know, having true skill isn’t always enough to keep us going back day after day. Even love of the work itself isn’t, particularly in the construction industry. With job retention rates at an all-time low in the industry, I couldn’t help but wonder what it was that kept Lana smiling as she talked to me about this job.

“You have to take the rough with the smooth,” she explained.

“No job in the world is ever going to be perfect, and you can’t really expect it to be. But this site is honestly one of the best I’ve worked at. I’ve never worked on site where everything seems so easy and relaxed even though we’re so up against it.”

real progress, real change. And seeing how truly happy she is working at the Ward and Burke site, it’s clear why the negatives from before still need to be readily talked about.

Life with Lana is just that; life and all that comes with it. Lana could sit and detail to me all the work she does down to the minutia. She could talk about bucket scoops and the best digger brands, and even her excitement for upcoming shows (do stay tuned to see Lana and myself hit Hillhead together, it’s gonna be good). But the thing Lana is most insistent on, is looking at the reality of a life in construction.

“If I am an influencer, as you say I am, then operator mental

There was certainly a true sense of that when Darren and myself were on site. Everyone was chatty and friendly, pausing their busy schedules to give us a quick hello or run through what it was they were doing. Seamus, the site manager, chatted away to Darren about everything they were getting up to, even helping me find the best angles for photos and graciously ensuring I didn’t get run over by a passing dump truck.

“Seamus is a really good site manager,” confirmed Lana. “Knows what’s what, has an eye on everything and you can still have a good chat with him. He really cares, you know?”

“Is that not always the case?” I asked.

A small shake of her head and a frustrated sigh gave Lana’s answer tenfold. “I can tell you some real horror stories about places I’ve worked.”

“Not the case here, though?”

“No. I’m lucky here. And in general, I’d say the positives outweigh the negatives, without a shadow of a doubt. But I don’t think the negatives are really talked about enough.”

And you know what Lana? Neither do I.

One thing Lana has been very clear on from beginning this project with us, is that everything has to be real. Real stories,

health is definitely something I want to talk about.”

I hear you Lana, and I see you too. I see how passionate you are about your work and those who work with you. I saw it in how insistent you were I chatted to the lovely Melanie and included Tilly as women in construction. I see how much Seamus reveres you and your talent and yet you remain ever humble. I see how everything you do is inspirational.

So, get ready for the next few features of Life With Lana everyone.

The tonnes of dirt to shift is not just on site; it’s in the industry too.

Innovation, machinery, education fuelling a greener, cleaner future for plant

As standard, Flannery Plant Hire offers clients access to the widest range of fully electric plant in the UK, and deliver Stage IV and V engines, as well as a selection of hybrid machines. But our business is continuing to develop new, innovative solutions that move with the pace of change in the industry and lead it towards a better, more sustainable future. From education to alternative fuels, we’re committed to making practical changes where we can.

Collaboration is also key, not just in founding industry relevant education programmes, but across all activities related to environmental progress.

As part of our drive for a greener, cleaner future, the team at Flannery Plant Hire is highly motivated to join in the research and development of solutions that can replace the construction industry’s historical reliance on Red Diesel. We take the responsibility we have to contribute to a cleaner, greener world very seriously and will do whatever is in our power to support the country’s journey to its Net Zero future.

It’s a big priority for us to continue supporting our customers on their Net Zero journeys and we welcome the opportunity to develop greener solutions for us all.

We constantly strive to find the safest, most innovative and sustainable solutions that not only deliver value to our clients, but leave a greener and cleaner legacy. From the ground up. Literally.

We understand that sustainability isn’t just down to plant machinery, but how it’s used and maintained, and our Eco-Operator training courses are changing behaviours on sites across the country.

Collaboration is also key, not just in founding industry relevant education programmes, but across all activities related to environmental progress.

Our relationship with the Supply Chain Sustainability School (SCSS) as a Partner and Gold member, and being a founding signatory on their Plant Charter, means that we are part of a powerful drive for change in our industry. Much more powerful than anything we could do in isolation.

We will always work alongside our clients to build a better, more sustainable future for the construction industry.

Patrick Flannery Managing Director

To be frank, the success of Flannery’s operations will clearly depend on our ability to assimilate technologies that do away with the use of red diesel. We are aware that in the industry many firms have suffered due to the change in the real cost of their fuel consumption. Skanska Costain STRABAG JV at Canterbury Road were proud to announce their first dieselfree construction site back in May 2022, and we have to be agile and innovative enough to keep up with industry’s ambitions.

Flannery Plant Hire and Element 1 –exploring the Hydrogen fuel solution

We are proud to be part of the Government’s Innovate UK backed Element 1 project that aims to reduce the construction industry’s reliance on fossil fuels. It has brought together a variety of specialist contractors and suppliers from across the sector.

Running for two years, the project will provide practical solutions that will be demonstrated on an operational construction site for at least a month as part of the conditions of the grant award. The demonstration will support market assessment and business cases for investment and will measure and assess impacts on site productivity and emissions compared to conventional diesel plant, with learnings disseminated to the wider industry.

The project will aim to address other non-financial barriers to hydrogen production, supply and use, including skills/ training needs, Health and Safety, and regulatory issues. This very practical approach to developing the hydrogen solution is exactly what is needed to properly test its suitability and further explore any limitations.

Patrick Flannery is clear, ‘As I’ve said, the right solutions can never be developed in isolation, and there will have to be years of time spent refining the best way forward for red diesel replacement. The Element One group of companies understands the need for industry-wide collaboration and is dedicated to forging the way forward. We must learn now how to build the best solution for the future. It is an inspirational project that is absolutely necessary right now if we want to clean up the construction industry and meet the UK’s 2050 Net Zero commitment.’

Who is involved in Element 1 and the hydrogen solution to Red

Diesel Replacement?

• BAM and Skanska are providing operating construction sites to demonstrate the solution

• GeoPura is supplying hydrogen and a hydrogen powered generator

• Reynolds Logistics is responsible for hydrogen transport/ logistics

• ULEMCo is adapting their dual fuel technology to convert plant

• Flannery Plant Hire and Plantforce are providing the plant machinery

• The Building Research Establishment (BRE) is supplying independent assessments and metrics

Colin Evison, innovation technical lead for BAM, says: “As well as the technical ambition, the Element 1 project aims to address barriers to hydrogen production, supply and use including skills and training needs, health and safety and regulatory issues. The demonstration will support market assessment and business cases for investment and will measure and assess impacts on site productivity and emissions compared to conventional diesel plant.

“Ultimately, our aim is to shift hydrogen-powered plant use from being an experimental concept to creating practical solutions that allow implementation on busy construction sites. Importantly, all of our learnings will also be disseminated to wider industry.”

The beauty of the Element 1 dual fuel solution is that the technology has been created to convert existing dieselpowered plant into machines that run using hydrogen in the mix. This means that machinery will not have to be replaced, just converted, saving money, of course, and the associated carbon cost of decommissioning otherwise sound machines.

“It’s our mission to absolutely minimise our environmental impact by all means necessary. Investment and collaboration in exploring greener fuels like hydrogen plays a huge part in us achieving that.”

Chris Matthew Head of Business Strategy and ESG – Flannery

“We bring down all the data from the machinery, set benchmarks, and after the course is complete, measure change by operator, machine type and activity. We even run fuel-saving tournaments where results are displayed and league tables set up to incentivise improvements.

“We take great pride in offering the most comprehensive, relevant and inclusive training in the industry.”

Aaron Davis Director of Skills and Training –Flannery

Obviously, alternative fuels and upgrading machinery are just a part of the critical changes that need to happen to reach the UK’s legally binding commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2050.

Changing perceptions and behaviours on site will be key – and that’s no easy task.

Eco-Operator training – changing behaviour on site

Undaunted, we’ve been working with the Operator Skills Hub to develop the NOCN accredited SiteRight Eco-Operator course to start the process of making everyone involved in construction aware of what can be done to operate as fuel efficiently as possible.

Since 2022 we have been offering and developing the Eco-Operator training module for operators, supervisors and managers using an approved and tested framework designed to be relevant to the day-to-day use of plant on sites, setting parameters for consistent delivery that can provide evidence for improvement. The emphasis is then placed on each delegate to take personal ownership of the need to reduce emissions.

To provide context, the course covers facts about climate change and the negative impact of fossil fuels, and an introduction to the Climate Change Act, including the UK Government’s 2050 carbon reduction targets. It then demonstrates the importance of regular maintenance of plant machinery and what the standard requirements are, including:

• Engine care • Basic maintenance • Undercarriage checks

• Tyre condition • Oil maintenance

Record keeping is covered, so that attendees can learn about why keeping track of all factors relating to machine operation is key so that reasons for increases in fuel consumption can be identified and checked. For instance, identifying how frequent changes in speed can impact fuel useage. Then operation advice is shared in specific modules for different kinds of plant, for example wheel loaders, and the areas where changes can be made:

• Idling • Digging • Travelling

www.flanneryplanthire.com

ECO-Operator Certificates on the TRU: Grzegorz Laszczyk, Harry Jackson and Paul Carter

Skills Bootcamp in Plant Operations

Looking to upskill your team?

Flannery Plant Hire Ltd is committed to excellence in plant hire. Find out more about our Skills Bootcamps where we train people to become highly skilled plant operators.

We believe in making quality training accessible. Organisations can benefit from 90% funding provided by the Department for Education, with only the remaining 10% (£305.66) payable by the employer.

The great news for levy-paying companies is that this cost is recoverable through CITB grants.

The 10-day courses are conducted at our stateof-the-art Skills Hubs in Iver and Birmingham. Attendees can experience immersive learning environments and hands-on training that will set them on the path to success.

Scan this QR Code to register your interest

Immersive courses

in 360 Excavators, Forward Tipping Dumpers, Rollers, Telehandlers and more available now.

“This training was something new and inspiring for me personally. Very useful and relevant information that made me think what impact my work has on the environment and how I can operate more effectively to reduce idle time. I’d definitely recommend it.”

Andrew Beaumont Machine Operator – Flannery

Using machine data to track changes in fuel usage

Using MachineMax telematics, we have set benchmark idle times and fuel consumption for a variety of machines and scenarios. We are now measuring the impact of the Eco-Operator courses on projects where training has been carried out. The change is significant.

According to CAT, construction equipment idle time can be as much as 40-50% of total operation time.

With MachineMax we calculated a benchmark of 30% idle time on projects where Flannery machines were in operation. So, to be clear, this is before operators attended Eco-Operator training and idle time was scrutinised using data analysis.

If we assume the average idling rate of machines working on a project is 30% and apply this to a fleet of 100 - that represents roughly 250,000 litres of fuel unnecessarily burnt each year (approximately 720,000 kgs of CO2 emissions).

On a fleet of just 100 machines, this 10% reduction per year can save 82,500 litres of fuel - a saving of 237,600 kilograms of CO2 emissions.

In terms of the environmental impact, if you were to apply these figures to construction sites across the UK, the CO2 reductions are enormous.

This is evidence enough for us to continue investing in Eco-Operator training for our clients, confident that every ‘graduate’ can contribute to a more fuel-efficient future for the industry.

Our results show a 10% reduction in emissions from operators who’ve attended our Eco-Operator training modules.

The largest fleet of hybrid and electric plant for hire in the UK We continue to invest in the latest innovations and ensure our fleet supports our clients for their site needs. Each of our machine is fitted with full telematics and production management information. The fleet is GPS enabled and ready to deliver a greener and more efficient solution for the communities we serve by providing the lowest possible carbon footprint.

Our proactive approach to seeking out and evaluating the latest green solutions means we have been the first provider to bring many of the following products to the hire market:

Electric Drive Hybrid Dozer

Electric 1.5T Dumper

We deliver Stage IV and V engines, hybrid technology and the widest range of fully electric plant in the UK.

Hybrid 20T Excavator

Hybrid 36T Excavator

Electric 6M Telehandler

Collaboration is key

Making meaningful change in our industry is tough. So many of our commonly accepted metrics for success are decades old and focus solely on financial and quality targets. Whereas these are clearly still crucial, using data collected from machines deployed across the UK on projects that vary from HS2 to Sizewell C, we are identifying more scope for improving efficiency than previously possible. This data is translated by us, in collaboration with our partners, into education and practical steps that can be taken every day to make a difference. Once new behaviours around machine use become good habits we will be so much closer to meeting the Government’s Net Zero targets – maybe even ahead of schedule.

Flannery Plant Hire are always on the look out for the best innovations and equipment to invest in and for partners who share our vision of a greener, cleaner industry. If you want to find out more about this or our Eco-Operator courses, please contact the team at: webenquiries@flanneryplant.co.uk

Flannery Plant Hire Ltd are Gold founding members of the Supply Chain Sustainability School. They are ISO 14001 and FORS Gold accredited.

In 2023 they were awarded the Green Apple award with MachineMax for their development of a data-driven reporting and management solution that provides a real-time, consolidated view of the emissions, utilisation, idling time, fuel consumption, locations, and operating hours of their fleet of plant and equipment.

Faresin Electric 17M Telehandler

We continue our commitment to the industry’s Net Zero goal by purchasing the first 17m Electric Telehandler from Faresin. We’re looking forward to incorporating this new telehandler into our electric fleet, as Niall Hester, Operations Director at Flannery Plant Hire, confirms: “We found the smaller 6.26m electric telehandler from Faresin to be very popular with customers on high-profile projects such as HS2 and Thames Tideway, so given this positive feedback we’re confident that the new 17m telehandler will perform just as well. We’re delighted to be part of its introduction to the market, with our purchase of the world’s first at Bauma 2022.”

“On the right project and undertaking the right tasks, these machines will provide the environmentally sound solution you’re after.”

Dave Foxall Technology Engineer – Flannery

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KLEENOIL offer a completely free trial at your site ; with before and after independent oil analysis.

The Trusted Choice for Construction

Editor Rebecca Phillips travels to Sweden to visit the incredible event in the home of Volvo, Eskilstuna.

Volvodays 2024

There are many moments in a journalist’s career they’ll never forget. Their first interview, their first printed issue, the first time they have a creative burnout right in the middle of the office, staring at the ceiling for about half an hour just humming the Bluey theme tune…

Okay, perhaps that last one isn’t universal!

But the first international travel experience to attend a press event?

Now that one I know others can relate to. And what better event to serve as my first international business trip than the famous Volvodays.

When I first saw the invitation, I must admit there were three thoughts racing round in my head:

1. OH MY GOSH THIS IS SO EXCITING I’M OFF ON A TRIP WEEEEEE!

2. This one quote from the remake of Freaky Friday: ‘Oh I will most definitely be picking up the Volvo.’

3. I’m representing the company. In another country? ALONE?!

They all stayed with me right the way to being met at the Arlanda airport in Stockholm, when this truly amazing trip began. The atmosphere was electric, and I was more than ready to let it shock me. So, with that in mind, this Industry Corner is going to be a tad different. You’re going to come with me on an adventure (cue Bilbo Baggins) to the very core of Sweden’s economic giant, and experience the magnitude of this incredible company.

innovation has always been at the heart of Volvo, right from when it was a humble tractor manufacturer

Day 1 – Travel, History and Partying

The journey to Eskilstuna was utterly transcendent. Seriously! I don’t know what I expected, but I was treated to incredible landscapes: lakes, forests, fields, I saw it all. The hour and a half passed by a treat, and not just because I made a friend. We had a good chinwag the entire way (with breaks to stare and gawp and the scenery).

Arriving in Eskilstuna was just as breathtaking. Much of the architecture was as picturesque as it could get; the perfect blend of modern and traditional blending together in seamless harmony. I can absolutely see why our hosts were so proud to share this very special town with all of us. A company so steeped in history should be proud of its heritage; a feast for the eyes as much as the mind.

After a relaxing walk and check in with the lovely folks back in the office, it was time to head to the Munktell Museum, a mere stone’s throw away from the hotel, where we got to see and learn about Volvo’s rich history for ourselves which began in 1832.

After wandering around the displays with a lovely glass of bubbly in hand, it was time to settle in the dining room for dinner.

Our host for the evening was Jannicke Serneberg, the manager of the museum, who explained how thrilled Volvo were to have finally returned to Eskilstuna after 39 years away. She told us with a smile: “We have a whole world as our arena, but our heart is in Eskilstuna.”

The evening was filled with facts about Volvo and their focuses over the years. For instance, they were the very first company to develop an electric piece of construction equipment, or even that Mr Johan Munktell supplied his workers with beer to enjoy on break after a hard day’s labour. In fact, we got a history lesson from the man himself, his likeness up on the big screen, chatting to the lead singer of the evening’s band like there wasn’t over a hundred years between their timelines. He stressed two very important things; innovation has always been at the heart of Volvo, right from when it was a humble tractor manufacturer, and that they truly cared about the wellbeing of the people. Not simply their staff, but also the operators and customers that would be using their products. A fact I very much believed given how much effort must have gone into the evening’s activities.

Delicious food, amazing entertainment and a beautiful location made for a perfect first night of what would stretch into 3 weeks of Volvodays. And with the promise of surprises, unveiled secrets and brand new products to tantalise us, it was time to head to bed.

Day 2 – Dancing with Diggers, Learning from the Greats and Driving the Future

Leaving bright and early after a fabulous breakfast, we set off for the Volvo customer centre. We were heralded to the demo area with a welcoming round of applause and took our seats in the stand. The showground was infinitely impressive. Stretching well past the stand in both directions, a variety of Volvo equipment was parked across the space, ready and raring to show us exactly what it could do. Safety briefing completed and with the smell of suncream in our lungs, we were ready to start the day.

If there is one thing that I think everyone should put on their bucket list, it’s watching a synchronised heavy plant dance recital. Watching these giants twirl and glide like they weighed nothing was so impressive. Choreographed to perfection, it was the absolute best start to the day.

I wish I could show you properly here, in written form. But I promise you, nothing I say will do it justice. I myself was so excited, I kept forgetting to press record on my camera (especially when one of their electric cars squealed and slid into the showground at death defying speeds). Luckily, I caught most of it, and you can see it across our social channels!

After watching the best ballet of all time, we were welcomed into the Volvo customer centre for coffee, before settling down in the conference room for a presentation from the head of Volvo, Merkell Jernberg. A warm and welcoming speaker, Merkell immediately set the tone for a relaxed, yet highly informative presentation.

The focus was on what change is driving Volvo to further excellence. Merkell summed it up very well: “The world is changing, and we are too.”

He then detailed the drivers they are taking into account when creating their solutions, which I have abridged below: Political – 64 countries have elections this year, wars, borders closed.

Economic – slower economic growth, middle class expansion, regionalisation which drives supply chain.

Social and Lifestyle – developed countries have a steep increase in the age of the population, urbanisation.

Technology – zero emissions technologies, safety and productivity and energy questions can be solved but will we as humans allow it.

Environment – climate change and a green energy solution. Legal – crime, cyber security, corruption.

Doyle Machinery Limited will be showcasing at Hillhead this year at Stand D17 where you can explore our wide selection of machinery on display. Our Area Sales Managers will be there to assist you with any questions you may have, or simply to share a friendly chat over a drink or two. We are committed to providing top-quality machinery and excellent service, and we look forward to showing you why we are ‘The Home of Great Machinery.’ Come join us and experience the Doyle Machinery difference first hand.

Office: 03330 433322

Email: info@doylemachinery.co.uk

Web: www.doylemachinery.co.uk

Address: Long Lane Farm, Ascot Road, Holyport, Maidenhead SL6 3LG

It was very clear that their biggest concern was about the planet’s resources. This shone through with pride in the teams who showcased their electric range, and just what they can offer, especially as they form part of Volvo’s “biggest launch yet.” Merkell tells us that back in 2019 they wondered if it was the right time to launch the new electric machines; whether the world was ready. But with very positive customer feedback about the electric products, including comfort, ease of operation and long drive time, they knew it was time for these machines to hit the market. Their innovation certainly proved fruitful, as now they are able to continue their good work in so many different ways.

I got to see this for myself when the presentation and Q&A had wrapped up and we were set loose in the demonstration showground.

Wearing a rather snazzy rain poncho to guard against the sudden downpour, I set off ready to learn in depth about the new products.

One of my early stops was to a reconstructed installation site, where Volvo partnered with Husqvarna, producer of outdoor power products, to prove that “Electric can build electric.”

Frida Sylvan and Adam Björk from Husqvarna explained how the set up was based on a typical case study, and showcased how they integrate all electric solutions, from power banks to machinery. Gustav Boberg of Volvo also explained that he believes;

“the transition will first be in cities and urban areas, but more companies need to work together to show that electric can build electric.”

It was amazing to see how such a pairing works on all levels, and how in the future, if more commit to the cause, we can continue to build sustainably.

After wandering through more products and having a spot of lunch, I couldn’t help but scurry over to the mining and quarry demo zone for a presentation on how Volvo’s new hauler range is revolutionising the mining industry. (Well, after all, this is our mining and quarrying issue!) The speaker talked us through the incredible attributes of their large level machinery, simulating a working quarry so we might imagine them in a real worksite! They also showed how the Volvo’s smart technology can be integrated to best keep track of a mining fleet as well as help to communicate between customer and supplier.

Brand New Products

Us lucky few invited for the press day were honoured to be seeing the ‘most ambitious new product launch’ for Volvo in its extensive history. We were able to see and test all of these fantastic products before anyone else in the world!

Smarter Solutions

My Equipment (Integrated into CareTrack starter pack) – Web-based app has been specifically designed with the operator in mind, providing easy access to essential data on their connected equipment, on the go and from any device. Thanks to being accessible on any web browser or device, the app is set to make it smoother to onboard new operators and quickly connect them to the status of all electric machines on their worksites. The lovely man taking me through everything provided me with possibly one of my favourite quotes of all time: “Everything is getting smarter, even buckets.”

Availability: Select European markets in June 2024, with North America and other global areas seeing it at a later date.

Attachment Detection

Attachment Management – All relevant data culminated in the detection app, including current position of attachments, all data involved in attachment lifecycle and complete monitoring of attachments.

Attachment Machine Integration – Automatic attachment handling, seamless automatic detection of connected attachment, Dig Assist configured with correct data and dimensions, data shared with app and between machine groups.

Availability: End of 2024

Articulated Haulers

A40 – This hauler absolutely puts the operator first at all times. The new cab design enhances operator comfort, with a side entrance to improve visibility. The entire design has new service centres on the vehicle to make all of the required maintenance more easily accessible at all times. It even has the first electrical opening for the hood. The whole hood lifts (rather than a section) and has an integrated ladder for total access to the entire engine. It truly delivers on Volvo’s ethos of safety first. “Future proof and will withstand the test of time. It’s been designed that way.” Anderson Boström.

Availability: Production begins at the end of 2024 and will be available at the beginning of 2025. It will also be developed into a full range.

Rigid Haulers

R60 – 55 ton, with a body volume of 36.04m³

SIDE NOTE: I drove one of these around a dirt track, and not only was it fun, it was incredibly simple! Sadly, I was not allowed to bring it home, even though I’d named her Baby Princess Angel, and was more attached to her than a bucket scoop to an excavator.

R70 – 65 ton, with a body volume of 42.4m³

The new machines feature a V-shaped haul body, that is designed to deliver maximum load retention, while at the same time minimal material carry-back post dumping. The dumping process itself is also speedy, thanks to a fast-tip system.

Providing real time insights on payload, the optional On-Board Weighing system helps operators apply the industry standard 10/10/20 payload policy – where the machine can take 10% overload for 10% of the time but should not exceed 20%.

Availability: R60 available after this summer with the R70 available at the end of the year.

Crawler Excavators

EC400

EC230

EC500

A stylish new operator environment provides even more space and comfort, with a cool box to store items and USB and Bluetooth connections to charge mobile phones, play music and aid on-site communication. Furthermore, thanks to an improved HMI, a keyless engine start and an always-on camera, a productive working day can be carried out with ease and, above all, in safety.

The intelligent technology behind the new electro-hydraulic system enables sensors to monitor operator movements and send signals to command the enhanced main control valve. The result is smooth and precise movement of the excavator’s boom, bucket and other attachments, as well as more accurate digging and loading.

Among a host of other efficiency-boosting features are a smart cooling system, engine speed regulation and engine pump optimization to further minimize energy consumption, as well as an auto power boost function to ensure an automatic setting of the system pressure.

The new excavators are made to help customers achieve more for less, and work with more precision and speed than ever before. Thanks to the new electro-hydraulic system and the automation of boom and bucket movements, operator fatigue is reduced and efficiency increased, enabling precise digging and shorter cycle times with minimal input. The advanced electric control joysticks and fully electric travel pedals provide lightning-fast response times, while the swing control, bucket angle control and a tilt bucket and tiltrotator control all help the operator maintain a precise cutting angle with just the press of a button.

Availability: End of 2024

Mid-Size Electric Machines

L90 Electric – The first electric wheel loader in its class, the 15-ton L90 Electric is a multi-talented solution suitable for a wide range of jobs. These include industrial material handling, forestry, agriculture and landscaping, quarries and mining and waste and recycling. The L90 Electric will last for approximately 4-5 hours of operation across most medium duty applications and a full working day in lighter applications. Also similar to its larger brother, the electric drive motor on the L90 Electric recuperate energy by acting as generators when decelerating,

Difficult measuring made easy

Measure & draw simultaneously

Generate a complete site map

Calculate surface area, volume, cut & fill

*vs traditional methods based on an April 2024 study of 1739 experienced Moasure Users

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See Moasure in action at Hillhead 2024: 25th - 27th June Stand PB13

ensuring a longer runtime and brake life. It can charge 0-100% in about 70 minutes using a 150kW DC fast charger or PU500 mobile power unit, while its AC on-board cable can power up in 6-7 hours for overnight charging.

EWR150 Electric – Volvo’s first electric short tail wheeled excavator, the 15-ton EWR150 Electric. Featuring the shortest tail swing in its class, it is a compact solution for inner-city use and confined spaces. This multi-purpose machine, supported by a range of attachments, is designed for multiple applications across construction, road work, utility installation and landscaping. As a wheeled solution it can quickly relocate or move on to the next job site, bringing any required tools on a trailer, saving time and transport costs. While other manufacturers provide converted electric options for this machine type, the EWR150 Electric comes from the factory – making it a significantly more energy efficient solution than its competitors, providing lower total cost of ownership. The state-of-the-art batteries are equipped with a thermomanagement system to ensure they remain at the optimum temperature to deliver a long lifetime. Energy recovery functions such as electric traveling enable a full day of work on a single charge. The electric Volvo wheeled excavator can then be powered overnight by simply connecting its integrated on-board charger (32 Ampere) to a wall socket or wall box, or in about one hour with a range of optional fast chargers.

L120 Electric – It can work a full day of around 5-9 hours on a single charge, depending on the application and environment. When it does need to power up, it can charge from 10-100% in one hour 40 minutes with a 180 kW DC fast charger or Volvo’s PU500 mobile power unit, and in 7 hours with a 40 kW DC portable charger, suitable for overnight charging.

The machines boast a 65% energy cost reduction on average, 30% less maintenance and zero engine-related consumables, making them a costeffective solution for the modern worksite. They also deliver the same, if not better performance, than their diesel counterparts. And with less noise, vibrations and heat, operators report more pleasant working conditions, reduced fatigue and the ability to more easily communicate.

Availability: L120 is available at the end of 2024, with the EWR150 and L90 available in mid 2025.

Charging solutions

PU40 – Charging the PU40 can be done via a low (6kW AC) connection to the grid, helping to avoid peak demand costs. Alternatively, fast charging via a 17kW DC charger is available. Volvo compact electric machines can be fast charged using the integrated 17kW DC charger or via a 3kW AC outlet. The AC outlet can also be used to charge non-Volvo compact electric machines and other electrical equipment. Weighing around 900kg and measuring 1200 x 900 x 900 mm, the Volvo PU40 Power Unit is ideal for both mobile and stationary use. Its small size and weight make it easy to move around the site to wherever the machines are located. It can be easily transported for example by the Volvo L20 Electric and L25 Electric machines using pallet forks.

Availability: Available now across Europe.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes, as a writer, you sit at your desk with your head in your hands, begging the words to spring forth from your mind. Pleading, even.

This was not one of those times.

There is honestly so much more I wish I could say about this incredible experience. The entire trip should be heralded as an industry leader in professionalism, fun and information. There wasn’t one part of my time in Sweden that was not completely captivating; not one moment left wishing the time away, and not one fact I haven’t already regaled everyone in the office with on repeat.

Unlike before, I now only have one thought in my mind. I will most definitely be picking up the Volvo.

Hillhead 2024 Quarrying, Construction & Recycling

The world’s biggest working quarry show is just around the corner, and the Plant Planet team are ridiculously excited to be exhibiting once again. So, just what can you expect from the highly anticipated show?

Hillhead is back everyone! Can you believe it?

No? We certainly can’t.

Two years has gone by so fast, and we, here at Plant Planet, are ready and raring to be in the thick of it all again.

As with previous years, Hillhead 2024 will take place on 25th-27th June in Tarmac’s Hillhead Quarry in Derbyshire, kicking off what promises to be a glorious summer.

We hope you have your suncream at the ready, because this fantastic show is filled to the brim with over 600 amazing exhibitors, all primed to show off the biggest and best that they have to offer. With more than 20,000 visitors expected, it promises to be a remarkable 3 days.

After the success of 2022, it also promises to be an exceedingly green and sustainable show. According to their brochure, the Hillhead organisers had this to say:

“We take our environmental responsibilities very seriously, and a number of initiatives have been introduced at Hillhead in recent years to make the exhibiting and visiting experience more sustainable. At the 2022 show, over 270 exhibitors in our large indoor pavilions were powered by Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). Swapping from fossil fuel to HVO generators reduced CO² emissions by 90%. We have also removed all single-use plastics from our official catering suppliers and increased recycling facilities around the showground. We now recycle paper and cardboard, tin and aluminium, glass and food waste. Other initiatives include sustainable paper and vegetable-based inks in our Show Guide, the promotion of the lift share scheme, and solar powered CCTV and lighting towers.”

Take a look at some of the amazing names we are excited to see:

Exhibitors

MB Crusher – Stand A32

MB Crusher, the specialists in innovative crushing and screening solutions, will be showcasing their vast range of products from both their compact and heavy lines, as well as displaying two revolutionary attachments: the padding bucket and the sorting grapple. Both set to cause quite the stir, we can’t wait to see what they can do!

BPH Attachments – Stand F15

We’re looking forward to catching up with BPH attachments following their feature in the very first Industry Corner back in December, where we had

the privilege to visit their brand-new HQ in West Sussex. Leaders in their field and no stranger at a construction exhibition, we are thoroughly excited to see their renowned attachments in full force, including the PRODEM hydraulic hammer.

Digger Guard – Stand S10

Digger Guard will be demonstrating their wonderful range of protective products for the construction industry. Their Vandal Guards are 27% lighter than competitor alternatives with stainless steel fixings throughout, and are the only vandal guard with an innovative, secure, and rainproof storage box, whilst their Polymer Handrail’s patent-pending vibration fatigue design reduces wear and failure points, with no electromagnetic wave interference. We’re excited to see them and talk more about these amazing products.

Engcon – Stand D3

Engcon, the world-leading manufacturer of tiltrotators and excavator attachments, will be demonstrating how to transform an excavator, making it more efficient, profitable and safe. An Engcon can be fitted to any excavator from 1.5 to 33t capacity and allows the operator to grade from any position, dig offline and around obstacles and practically eliminate all handwork.

Euro Auction – Stand RD1

Back at Hillhead to help all industries find the equipment that is right for them, Euro Auctions is gearing up to greet the swarms in June. Since 1998, Euro Auctions has been conducting unreserved auctions of industrial plant, construction equipment & agricultural. They conduct around 60 major

auctions every year around the globe, in seven countries over four continents, so the Hillhead crowd is sure to be in good hands.

Inmalo – Stand A42

Founded in 1946, INMALO is an industry leader in the supply of equipment for quarrying, recycling, demolition, plant hire & construction industries. Supplying the industries with premium hydraulic attachments, magnets, crusher buckets, rock breakers, hydraulic quick couplers and an extensive range of dust suppression systems, Inmalo have a team of engineers that provide the back-up required for excellent after sales service. Amongst their many products on display will be the MBI RP20-IT Hydraulic Rotating Pulveriser, Montabert V4500 Breaker and GIDA HMG115-T Toothed Hydraulic Magnet.

IPU Group – Stand RD8

IPU is on hand to protect the mobile diesel generators and expensive heavy plant machinery that we’ll see on display at this year’s show. With years of expertise in fighting fuel contamination and giving total control and visibility over equipment, IPU is an industry leader in their field. Ready to demo their range of intuitive HMI displays and hydraulic controllers alongside our sensor integration technology, IPU is gearing up for what promises to be a fantastic display.

Kubota – Stand W3

After spending a wonderful day with Kubota at their open day back in March, we are thrilled to once again see the fantastic Kubota range in action. Pride of place will be the Kubota KX085-5, which delivers the ultimate experience in operator comfort and high productivity. Together with Kubota’s proven high power, low emission direct-injection engine and robust, reliable hydraulics, there’s a host of built-in operational and safety features as standard, as well as a new ultra-quiet spacious cab for enhanced operator comfort and productivity across a wide range of jobs.

Blakertech – Stand C5

Our firm friends at BlakerTech will be showing their two impressive products, the Magthro™ and Sandflo™. BlakerTech’s innovative technology is renowned and respected across not just the metal

sector, but also the waste and recycling industries. Found in 14 countries worldwide, BlakerTech sets the industry standard with SandFlo™ and MagThro™, demonstrating design ingenuity and outstanding capabilities.

The MagThro™ with its eddy current technology is probably one of the most efficient in the marketplace. “That’s the idea behind it,’ says Robin Plater, Commercial Manager. ‘It’s remained pretty much unchanged for the 20 years since we first created it.”

The SandFlo™ is completely unique in its design and is a dry operation separator. Dubbed as ‘witchcraft’ by Robin Plater, the SandFlo™ certainly makes for an impressive display, as well as a long-term answer to a metal sorting quandary.

We certainly look forward to catching up with Robin and seeing both machines in action.

McCloskey – Stand L1

After a wonderful chat at Scotplant 2024, we’re thrilled to once again see McCloskey at the upcoming show. Since 1985, McCloskey International has established a worldwide reputation for high-performance products that have introduced many of today’s key mobile screening and crushing innovations. McCloskey offers machines for any operation, with a complete range of mobile crushers, screeners, stackers, trommels, and washing systems.

Merlo – Stand A20

After their wonderful displays at both EHS and Scotplant, we can’t wait to see what Merlo has in store for everyone. This year, Merlo is looking to digital, ready to help Hillhead’s virtual visitors in the New Product Media Gallery. On offer will be the compact Merlo P27.6 telehandler, the ROTO 70.28 S-Plus as well as their range of attachments including re-handling buckets, lifting hooks, winches and platforms. What a treat for both those in physical and virtual attendance!

Miller – Stand W28

At the forefront of site solutions, Miller has a dedicated team for just that, which offers a comprehensive range of services including repairs and refurbishments, field service response, and inspection monitoring services. Amongst their display, Miller will showcase the Extreme Rock Bucket, The Powerlatch Quick Coupler and the GT Series, alongside discussing their incredible options for custom builds!

SMT GB – Stand Y5

This year, SMT GB is all about sustainability, debuting of the 23 t Volvo EC230 Electric excavator. On top of this, they will demonstrate their extensive solutions to optimise and decarbonise sites with existing machines, whilst also putting the onus on machine

rebuilds, used parts, and used equipment to promote a circular economy. Meanwhile, in the demonstration zone, they will be showing the best Volvo Machinery has to offer, proving their dedication to lower emissions and greater efficiency.

Sunward – Stand Y2

Dazzling the spectators at Hillhead, Sunward will debut two excavators to the UK market – the SWE 50UF mini and SWE 60UFED compact, as well as models from the manufacturer’s best-selling ranges. Both excavators will be showcased on Sunward’s static display, all while their 21-tonne top-of-the-line medium excavator, the SWE 215F-5A, will physically demonstrate the company’s unique mix of quality and value for money.

Ulrich Attachments – Stand W18

Bespoke attachments specialists for mobile plant machinery, Ulrich will be showcasing their incredible variety of products, including their ISO hydraulic quick-couplers, specialist XL pallet forks, and general-purpose and refuse-clamp buckets, all of which feature a heavy-duty clamp assembly specially designed for the rigorous duties of the waste management industry. Taking the main stage on their stand will be the 11m3 wood waste High Tip unit on a wheel loader. We cannot wait to see it in all its glory.

Hillhead

Demos

On top of all of this, the live demonstrations are set to return: the Quarry Face, Crusher Alley, Recycling and Registration Demonstration Areas all making a glorious comeback. Hillhead is famous for demonstrating a variety of machines in a real quarry environment, and this year is no exception. Unique to Hillhead, the 4 demo areas are as follows:

Quarry Face - three benches spanning the length of the quarry face will host over 35 machines including excavators, wheel loaders, dump trucks, dozers, cold planers, hydraulic breakers, screening buckets and mist cannons.

Rock Processing - also known as ‘Crusher Alley’ where a range of tracked and skid-mounted crushers, screens, scalping grids and stockpiling conveyors can be viewed.

Recycling - located to the south of the exhibition site, this area shows a range of specialist crushers, shredders, screens and washing equipment.

Registration - this area hosts rock processing and recycling demonstrations.

Hillhead 2024 Opening Times:

Tuesday 25th June 09:00 – 17:30

Wednesday 26th June 09:00 – 17:30

Thursday 27th June 09:00 – 16:00

Plant Planet – Stand PC44

Now you might be wondering, what will Plant Planet be doing at the biggest show of the year?

Plenty, dear readers. PLENTY!

The entire sales team will be in attendance, showcasing not one, not two, but all THREE of the Kiwi Media publications we now offer. It’s also extra special as Demolition Spotlight’s very first mini mag will be coming with us, making a rather spectacular debut, if we do say so ourselves.

Our editor, Rebecca Phillips, will also be doing the rounds with none other than Lana Edwards! Together they will be wandering the quarry, chatting with those in the know, trying out machines and causing general mischief… ahem, taking wonderful photos and videos for socials. Make sure to keep an eye on our socials for the countdown, as well as the announcement of our brand new TikTok channel!

From all of us here at Plant Planet, we cannot wait to see you all there!

The

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Five Dirty Secrets About Filtration That Can Impact Your Heavy-Duty Construction Equipment

What you don’t know about filtration and coolants can contribute to reduced performance and increased unplanned maintenance of your heavyduty construction equipment. There’s always a new requirement, technology or application to consider.

So what can you do to keep up, protect your equipment, and extend maintenance intervals?

The Full Filtration Story You’ll Want to Know

Basic knowledge about engine and equipment filtration is not always the full story. To extend maintenance intervals and equipment life – and enhance performance – it’s helpful to uncover and better understand some of the construction industry’s littleknown issues.

Time is money and knowledge is power; keeping you up and running is the ultimate goal. So here are five dirty secrets about filtration that can impact the performance of your high-horsepower, heavy-duty equipment.

They are:

1. BULK FUEL CAN BE DIRTIER THAN INDUSTRY STANDARDS

2. ADDITIVES CAN PLUG FUEL FILTERS AND LIMIT PERFORMANCE

3. “WILL-FIT” CV FILTERS CAN CAUSE LEAKS, DRIPS AND ENGINE DAMAGE

4. THE HIDDEN COSTS OF CHEAP COOLANTS

5. INDUSTRY STANDARDS DON’T ALWAYS REFLECT REAL-WORLD NEEDS

The information and recommendations included herein will enable you, your business and your team to increase your overall knowledge about filtration systems so you can avoid equipment damage and unplanned downtime.

there are multiple opportunities for contamination during transportation and handling.

1. Bulk Fuel Can Be Dirtier Than Industry Standards

Achieving higher engine performance and longer fuel system life requires minimizing fuel contamination, especially with biodiesel blends. In general, cleaner fuel means higher fuel economy and lower operating costs.

But not all fuel is as clean as you think.

Although diesel fuel leaves refineries in accordance with established industry cleanliness standards, there are multiple opportunities for contamination during transportation and handling:

• At each transfer point – from pipeline to tank, and from bulk storage to construction equipment – there are opportunities for dust, dirt and other organic matter to contaminate the fuel inside tanks and hoses.

• Water from condensation can accumulate inside tanks, which can lead to corrosion and microbial growth.

Caption: There are multiple opportunities for fuel to become contaminated with dirt, dust and other organic matter during transportation and handling. And water from condensation can accumulate inside tanks, leading to corrosion and microbial growth.

So what should you do?

If you use bulk fuel at your worksites, your first line of defense is utilizing Stage 0 filtration systems at storage and transfer facilities to ensure that the cleanest fuel possible reaches your equipment. Stage 0 bulk filtration removes particulate matter (PM) and most of the water that gets into diesel fuel via condensation inside the tanks. This prevents corrosion of engine parts. It also deters microbial growth in the fuel that can plug the Stage 1 and Stage 2 fuel filters – significantly decreasing engine performance and increasing unplanned maintenance.

Many off-engine fuel filters from Fleetguard may be used to filter fuel as it is transferred from bulk tanks to vehicles and equipment. They incorporate different types of media, including synthetic media such as StrataPore™ media from Fleetguard, to maximize protection for bulk filtration and recirculation applications.

And don’t forget about your fuel transfer hoses, fill nozzles and fuel tank caps. They need to be kept clean and properly stored when not in use.

In addition, today’s advanced engines have very tight tolerances on critical components, so high-quality, on-engine fuel filters are recommended for each piece of equipment. Particles in the range of 4 microns (μm) are known to cause the most damage to precision fuel injectors and fuel pumps. High-quality filters are rated at particle sizes of 4 μm to reliably remove these contaminants.

Many on-engine Fleetguard filters, such as the FF63054NN premium spin-on fuel filter, include NanoNet® high-performance nanofiber media to reduce the number of harmful particles that reach the engine’s fuel injectors. Its unique design delivers maximum engine protection by incorporating multiple media layers that ensure fuel at the Stage 2 filter meets the ISO 4406 cleanliness standard.

If you use bulk fuel, consider adding a Stage 0 filtration system to reduce contaminants.

2. Additives Can Plug Fuel Filters and Limit Performance

Additives are sometimes used by fuel suppliers to improve the flow of diesel fuel through pipelines, transfer points and storage tanks. They also may be used in bulk storage to inhibit corrosion and deter microbial growth. Equipment operators also may add them to enhance engine protection.

But here’s the dirty secret: these additives can inadvertently plug fuel filters.

Fuel additives can introduce unintended soft (organic) contaminates that can plug filters. They can react with metals like sodium and calcium, which enter the fuel system due to improper handling, and leave behind unwanted carboxylates/soaps. Cold flow improvers are essential for construction companies working in northern climates, but they can be insoluble and lead to filter plugging.

Over time, the buildup will choke the fuel flow rate and limit engine performance. Because of this, if you’re using additives, it’s important to introduce them sparingly and cautiously.

Overuse can shorten maintenance and replacement intervals for fuel filters, potentially increasing maintenance costs and equipment downtime. And if the proper replacement filter or a service technician is not available, the costs can quickly escalate.

So what’s to be done about it?

If you use bulk fuel, consider adding a Stage 0 filtration system to reduce contaminants. Off-engine filters, such as the Fleetguard FF246 fuel filter cartridge, prevent contaminants from reaching the critical components in your engine and support longer service intervals. You may also want to use filter heads with integrated differential pressure gauges (DPGs) on your Stage 0 filters. The DPGs will monitor filter performance and signal when it’s time to change the filter.

If you use fuel additives, carefully monitor the service life of your fuel filters and inspect them closely to determine when maintenance is needed. If you see sticky compounds, it may be due to the additives. Another critical step: select aftermarket Stage 1 and Stage 2 fuel filters designed to capture dirt and dust as well as soft contaminants such as carboxylates. Replace them at the regular intervals recommended by the engine’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM).

Multiple Layers of Advanced Protection

Caption: Ongoing transient conditions such as vibration, flow surge and pressure fluctuation can release captured particles from conventional fuel filter media. The released particles can negatively affect fuel system performance and durability. Fleetguard filters made with nanofiber technologies are 10 times more effective than competitive products at removing and retaining particles.

Overuse can shorten maintenance and replacement intervals for fuel filters, potentially increasing maintenance costs and equipment downtime.

Do More With the Protection of Filtration Science

Protect your pro tability with the proven results of ltration science. The right lters from Fleetguard on your equipment can help prolong engine life by removing contaminants that cause premature wear on critical components. You’ll get healthier engines, fewer breakdowns, lower repair costs and longer duty cycles.

3. “Will-Fit” CV Filters Can Cause Leaks, Drips and Engine Damage

Properly fitted crankcase ventilation (CV) filters remove oil from engine crankcase gases (i.e., blow-by) generated from normal engine operation. Your diesel engine blow-by should contain minimal oil aerosol before routing to the turbocharger (closed system) or directly to the atmosphere via the vent hose (open system). Benefits include reduced emissions (drips and aerosol) — essential on work sites in urban settings or near residential areas, hospitals and schools — and oil consumption while maintaining peak engine performance.

But not all aftermarket CV filters can take the heat.

Superior-quality CV filter media withstands high engine heat that can melt the media found in some will-fit CV filters. The melted material can clog the drain line or block engine ports. This could lead to reduced power and higher crankcase pressure, which causes leaks, increased oil use and reduced fuel economy.

Inferior CV products may void OEM warranties and not meet emissions standards.

Advanced CV filtration products can stand up to the heat while removing the oil aerosol particles typically found in diesel engine blow-by.

Look for CV filters that feature unique polymer webs with varied fiber sizes that protect the air intake system and the environment. They’re designed to keep turbochargers and heat exchangers clean to prevent leaks and minimize the amount of crankcase oil vented from the engine, thus reducing oil consumption. An example is the Fleetguard CV50634 crankcase ventilation system, which is found on nearly every major make of on-highway and industrial diesel and natural gas engine in Europe and North America.

Cheap CV Systems Can’t Take the Heat

Caption: When exposed to high heat, sub-standard or nongenuine filter media may melt and deposit in the housing. Melted material can lead to catastrophic engine damage.

Construction equipment operators must inspect and test engine coolant on a regular basis.

4. The Hidden Costs of Cheap Coolants

Nearly 40% of all engine problems originate in the cooling system; it’s an aggressive environment of high velocities and temperatures. Corrosion, scale buildup and cylinder liner damage caused by cavitation can result in leaks, premature engine wear and equipment failure.

So what’s the right coolant for your engine?

Three types are available, and all can provide adequate protection: conventional, hybrid and organic acid technology (OAT). Almost all coolants will meet the automotive standard, ASTM D3306; almost all heavy-duty diesel coolants will meet the HD standard, ASTM D6210 — when OEM maintenance recommendations are followed.

But that doesn’t mean you can just “fill it and forget it.”

Although conventional coolants are the least expensive to purchase, they require more monitoring and maintenance of additives, increasing costs. They also require more frequent replacement.

OAT coolants are the most expensive upfront, but they require no additives and generally last longer without maintenance. ES Compleat™

OAT coolant from Fleetguard provides superior anti-freeze and anti-boil protection for 1 million miles. It’s a lifetime, heavy-duty, fully formulated coolant that deters liner pitting and corrosion and is compatible with gaskets, elastomers and the many metals used with today’s engines.

Hybrid coolants such as Fleetguard CC2825 ES Compleat combine conventional and OAT technologies to provide superior liner protection and extend service intervals.

When OEM recommendations are not followed, hidden expenses can crop up. These can range from needing to replace leaky seals damaged by incompatible fluids or high temperatures to having to repair corroded components that impact engine performance. All risk unplanned downtime for maintenance or major repairs.

Construction equipment operators must inspect and test engine coolant on a regular basis. Coolant also must be periodically replaced following OEM instructions to ensure full system protection against corrosion and scale buildup on heat exchangers.

The useful life of a coolant ends when the chemical additives in it are outside acceptable limits; this is typically caused by improperly topping off with water only and not maintaining the proper additive levels. So how do you know if your coolant is still good?

Monitoring tools can help to determine if the coolant meets these limits. Fleetguard Quik-Chek™ test strips may be used to assess the condition of coolant. Dip and read test strips at least twice a year to determine glycol and additive levels. Fleetguard Water-Chek™ test strips should be utilized when using Fleetguard concentrated coolants. Refractometers are used to identify the freeze point. In addition, OEMs and third-party laboratories can offer more detailed coolant analyses.

Which Coolant Is Best for Your Application?

Caption: Three types of coolants are available. All can provide adequate protection, but some require more maintenance than others.

5. Industry Standards Don’t Always Reflect Real-World Needs

Engine and equipment industry leaders have established filtration testing standards for fuel, air, lubricants and other fluids. Standards such as ISO 4406, ISO 19438, SAE J905 and ISO 5011 serve important purposes but represent the minimum performance levels or ranges.

Caption: Standards such as ISO 4406, ISO 19438, SAE J905 and ISO 5011 serve important purposes but represent the minimum performance levels or ranges.

To be clear, Fleetguard experts helped create these standards and Fleetguard products are tested in accordance with them. But like many industry standards, they lag behind the latest technologies and trends. For example, current standards do not factor in the most recent advancements in high-pressure

common rail (HPCR) fuel injection systems, renewable fuels and stricter emissions regulations. They also don’t take into account all of the real-world conditions experienced on construction work sites that impact filtration performance.

So if industry standards just establish the baseline, how do you know what filter or coolant to select?

Certainly, the first step is to review the OEM specifications for aftermarket products. Ask suppliers whether the replacements they offer meet the OEM’s specs, and make sure they comply with the relevant industry standards.

But don’t stop there. Some OEMs perform additional testing to validate the performance of filtration products under real-world conditions that industry standards don’t address. These may include factors such as temperature, vibration and fuel surge. (For example, Fleetguard performs 14 proprietary tests to confirm performance beyond the minimum industry standards.) Talk with your supplier to determine if any of these factors may impact the filtration performance on your construction equipment and then look for products that have been developed with those in mind.

Filtration Solutions That Protect What Matters

You can be confident that your engines and equipment will go further – with the right filtration products and information from Fleetguard. Fleetguard is constantly advancing filtration technologies and pushing testing limits to reflect real-world conditions to enhance the performance of your equipment and protect your investments in it.

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Concrete Expo 2024: a triumph of innovation and industry expertise

Concrete Expo, the UK’s most innovative show for the concrete industry, made a hugely successful return to London’s ExCeL in May 2024, with a 20% year-on-year increase in exhibitor bookings.

This year’s edition, which ran from May 8th to 9th and was co-located alongside UK Construction Week (UKCW) London, was the most expansive yet. It attracted over 5,000 industry professionals cementing its position as Europe’s fastest-growing specialist concrete event.

New features and innovations

The 2024 edition of Concrete Expo, a joint venture between Industry Expo Ltd and Media 10, introduced several exciting new features, including a Live BIM for Concrete Interactive Visitor Experience - a standout element of the show providing hands-on, practical insights into the latest advancements in Building Information Modelling (BIM) for concrete applications.

Other new features included a technical advice clinic that offered invaluable expertise on a range of topics, while a new dedicated area for testing, repair, and reinforcement highlighted cutting edge techniques and solutions.

Supported by The Concrete Society, Structural Concrete Alliance and the Drilling & Sawing Assoc, Concrete Expo was co-located alongside UK Construction Week, giving visitors a comprehensive and broad construction sector experience – allowing them to explore a broad array of innovations and applications across the industry’s multiple disciplines.

Highlights and exclusives

Concrete Expo 2024 showcased an impressive line-up of marketleading exhibitors, featuring both returning favourites and show debutants. Highlights included:

● Master Builder Solutions: This global leader in sustainable construction presented its innovative concrete admixtures and pioneering underground construction technologies, which drew significant interest

● McCrory: A full mobile batching plant gave visitors a unique opportunity to tour the plant and engage directly with experts

● Putzmeister UK: With a UK debut for its new Electric Mixer, Putzmeister’s eco-friendly innovation drew plenty of plaudits and attention

● Peri UK: As the market leader in formwork, scaffolding, and engineering services, Peri UK demonstrated its latest products to an eager audience

● Multiquip: A leading supplier of construction equipment in the UK, Multiquip showcased an extensive range of offerings

● Tyrolit UK: Known for their bonded grinding, sawing, drilling, and dressing tools, Tyrolit showcased its latest advancements to an engaged audience

Other companies showcasing state of the art technology and applications included Adfil Ltd; Longfloor; Bay-Lynx; Premier MBP; Camfaud Concrete Pumps; Somero; Probst; RCR; Giatec; Kryton International; and Screening Eagle.

Talks and discussions

The Main Show Theatre, a staple of Concrete Expo, hosted a series of compelling talks and discussions, with audiences comprising engineers, general contractors, architects, designers, planners, surveyors, and local authorities, all looking to enhance their knowledge and understanding of the latest industry trends.

Key topics included:

● Sustainability in Concrete: Expert keynote speakers discussed technologies addressing the CO2 challenge in concrete production and usage, giving valuable insights into how to make concrete more environmentally friendly.

● Carbon Fibre in Construction: This session explored the growing role of carbon fibre in modern construction and its potential benefits.

● Design as a Service: Capturing product logic in KOPE was discussed, offering insight into the latest design methodologies.

● The Importance of Waterproofing: This talk emphasised the critical role of appointing a waterproofing expert in construction projects. Comprehensive showcase of technology and equipment.

Concrete Expo 2024 featured an extensive range of concrete and associated product categories, including admixtures; aggregates; BIM design software; cement; concrete repair and restoration; screeds and mortars; decorative concrete; diamond drilling, sawing, fixings & fastenings, floors, surface preparation & finishing tools, formwork, falsework & form liners, mixing & batching, precast production equipment, reinforcement, trucks, volumetric mixers & pumps, and waterproofing.

This wide-ranging showcase ensured that all aspects of concrete technology were well-represented - making the event indispensable for industry professionals.

Networking and professional development

Sam Patel, Divisional Director – Construction, commented: “The concrete industry is in major demand for sustainable solutions, energy-efficient machinery, and delivering improved infrastructure – and Concrete Expo showed once again it is the place to go for individuals to discover and seize new prospects.

“Building on the success of the previous year, Concrete Expo 2024 was an unparalleled success, bringing together a diverse array of exhibitors, cutting edge innovations, and practical applications.

“The event gave visitors a wealth of knowledge and inspiration, reinforcing the show’s status as a premier gathering for the concrete industry. Whether it was exploring the latest products and technologies, engaging in insightful discussions, or networking with industry peers, Concrete Expo 2024 delivered an exceptional experience for all involved.”

Mark your calendars for May 7th to 8th 2025, when Concrete Expo will return to London’s ExCeL, where it will continue to set the standard for industry events, promising even more innovation and expertise.

The Thwaites name is synonymous with the best-quality dumpers on the market. Advanced design and investment in tooling provide today’s customers with the very best products at the cutting edge of technology

This means more than just the strength and reliability you know you can expect from Thwaitesit means an increased focus on customer satisfaction, safety and ergonomics across the range.

Titanic Tech | Giants in The Industry

Ever wondered what plant machinery is used in mining? Not to worry!

Plant Planet has put together a good old comprehensive list for you, including some insights from the top companies in the business!

Mining, in actual fact, is one of the oldest industries in the world. After thousands of years of quarrying and mining, we, as people, have really got it down to a fine art. Now, with the inclusion of impressive technologies, mining is a much quicker and slicker operation than it used to be.

Particularly in the last 50 or so years, the world of mining has become safer and more efficient, and a lot of this is down to the use of plant machinery’s involvement.

To understand that, you must know that there are two types of mining, with very clear and easy distinctions between the two:

Soft Rock Mines

● Soft rock minerals include but not limited to salt, coal, bauxite, and potash.

● All of these minerals can be mined using only specialized mining machinery.

● No explosives required at point of extraction.

Hard Rock Mines

● Hard rock minerals include but not limited to copper, gold, iron, lead, platinum, silver, uranium, and zinc.

● In hard rock mines, hydraulic drills are used to drill holes where explosives can be inserted and then blasted.

● Explosives required for extraction.

It must be said that much of the plant machinery is mainly deployed in surface mining, with many methods of underground mining remaining relatively unchanged over the millennia, save for the inclusion of some very snazzy PPE and some lifesaving legislation. And even more specifically, plant machinery is employed in the extraction portion of surface mining. So, what are they key bits of kit? And what are they used for?

Blasthole drills

Possibly the most exciting part of any quarry is the boom of explosions to get miners deep into the rock. That’s where blasthole drills come in. These huge mining machines are used to drill right into the earth surface so that explosives can be placed.

Bucket-wheel excavators

In open pit mining, a key piece of kit is a bucket-wheel excavator. The jack of all trades, these mining tools continuously dig, transport, and load materials, and are capable of excavating up to 240,000 cubic tons of minerals per day!

Dozers

Dozers are huge earthmovers that drag dirt from one area to another, clearing the way for the next lot of machinery to come in and get their job done.

Dragline excavators

When it comes to titanic tech, there is no other piece of equipment that quite earns the title like a dragline excavator. Used in strip mining to remove overburden, the massive bucket system is attached to large booms and dragged across the surface of the earth for excavation. It is easily one of largest pieces of land mining equipment used in mining, or in fact, any other industry.

Graders

When looking at mining equipment and its uses, much of the focus would be on the process of extraction. However, ensuring the precious minerals are transported from quarry to sorting on time is what keeps the business profitable. There, graders play an allimportant part as they are used to create viable roads for the mining trucks that are ready and raring to whisk away the fruits of the labour.

Highwall miners

The poster child of the mining industry, coal has always been a highly sought after mineral, and nowadays, a highwall miner is needed to get the job done. Highwall miners extract coal from exposed seams, and are able to rotate up and down a wall, grinding mineral deposits out of the walls. These mining tools are also readily used in trench mining.

Mining trucks

The larger, much scary cousin of the humble dump trucks, mining trucks do pretty much what they say on the tin and are used to transport the vast quantities of minerals to their various locations. Far from a simple truck, new technology has developed fully autonomous mining trucks that use both LiDAR and radar to freely move around a mining site, representing a positive development in the Health and Safety aspect of mining.

Shovels

No, no silly, not that type of shovel! Gone are the days where all the digging had to be done by hand. Shovels are huge pieces of equipment that are used for digging and to extract broken rocks and minerals.

Wheel tractor scrapers

Another type of earthmover is a wheel tractor scraper. It operates in a similar way to a carpenter’s plane. Unlike dozers though, scrapers have the capability to load and carry materials, making them multifunctional; an ever handy thing in a busy quarry.

Now, with all of this exceedingly impressive machinery, comes the need for exceedingly impressive tyres. And who better to detail the importance of such additional kit than Vaculug, Europe’ largest independent retreader.

Vaculug, a leading tyre retreading and management solutions provider, plays a pivotal role in supporting the plant machinery utilised in mining and quarries. The demanding environments of mining and quarry operations require heavyduty equipment that can withstand harsh conditions, and tyres are no exception. Vaculug’s expertise lies in providing robust tyre solutions that enhance the efficiency, safety and longevity of machinery in these challenging settings.

new technology has developed fully autonomous mining trucks that use both LiDAR and radar to freely move around a mining site

Vaculug

In mining and quarry operations, vehicles and machinery are subjected to extreme loads, abrasive terrains, and frequent punctures from sharp rocks and debris. This puts immense pressure on tyres, making durability and reliability crucial factors. Vaculug addresses these challenges by offering specialised tyres designed to withstand the difficulties of these environments. Their tyres are engineered with durable compounds and reinforced structures to endure heavy loads, resist punctures and maintain traction on rough surfaces.

One of the key advantages of Vaculug’s services is tyre retreading. This process involves refurbishing worn tyres by replacing the tread and, if necessary, repairing the casing. Retreading extends the lifespan of tyres, reduces waste, and offers significant cost savings compared to purchasing new tyres. For mining and quarry operators, who rely heavily on their equipment’s uptime, retreading ensures that tyres remain in optimal condition, minimising downtime and maximising productivity.

Vaculug also provides comprehensive tyre management solutions tailored to the unique needs of mining and quarry operations. This includes onsite inspections, pressure monitoring systems, and inventory management services. By proactively managing tyre maintenance and replacements, Vaculug helps operators optimise their fleets’ performance, reduce operating costs and ensuring safety compliance.

Furthermore, Vaculug understands the importance of sustainability in the mining and quarrying industry. By offering retreading services, they contribute to resource conservation by minimising the demand for new tyres and reducing the environmental impact of tyre disposal. Additionally, their focus on maximising tyre lifespan through effective management practices aligns with the industry’s efforts to minimise waste and promote responsible resource utilisation.

Vaculug’s tyre solutions play a crucial role in supporting the plant machinery used in mining and quarries. Through durable tyres, efficient retreading processes, and comprehensive management services, Vaculug helps operators overcome the challenges of harsh operating conditions, maximise equipment uptime and ultimately achieve their productivity goals while prioritising safety and sustainability. www.vaculug.com

INTERMAT 2024

Plant Planet and Demolition Spotlight were absolutely thrilled to be at INTERMAT 2024. A first for the magazines, we were represented by our Senior Sales Executives Phil Every and Charlotte Walsh.

The 2024 edition of the tradeshow, with its redesigned offering and format, registered over its four-day duration 127,500 entries; 21% of which were from outside France and from 130 countries.

A total of 1,065 exhibitors, including 68% from outside France, welcomed a high-quality visitor audience, delighted to witness the industry’s drive in favour of environmental and technological progress.

The show acted as a businessconducive catalyst, with a widely acknowledged increase in the proportion of decision makers. A third of the visitors came with investment plans to accelerate the low carbon and digital transition of construction projects.

With 30% more contacts per day per exhibitor compared with its 2018 edition, INTERMAT 2024 was the point of convergence for all the professionals who came in search of concentrated innovation to address the climate and societal challenges faced by construction. Exhibitors and visitors met up in a particularly animated and convivial atmosphere.

The exhibition was opened by the chairmen of the five main construction trade associations in France (DLR, EVOLIS, FFB, FNTP and SEIMAT), united and committed through the signature of the manifesto “4 keys to support the decarbonisation of construction equipment.”

Adopting the right energy for each use, saving energy, raising stakeholder awareness to CSR and improving the safety and appeal of jobs in construction were at the heart of some highly productive debates staged in the new Industry Forum and Academy spaces. Talks, round tables and special features gave an opportunity to visitors, and in particular to the 1,400 young people in attendance, to gain insight into the major issues in the sector, with the aim of accelerating the green and digital transitions.

This edition was marked by the noticeable representation of major international construction companies. The most-represented countries included Belgium the Netherlands, Italy, Germany, the UK, Finland, North African countries and Turkey. The ReBuild Ukraine talk addressed all the themes essential for the reinforcement of the Ukrainian nation through reconstruction, representing multiple opportunities for French companies, investors and partners.

The New Technologies and Energies hub, and the Start-up Village, showcased technology and equipment incorporating new, alternative or renewable energy sources (biofuel, electric, hydrogen), virtual and digital engineering, energy storage solutions and autonomous vehicles.

The multiple machinery demo zones both outdoors and on stands, as well as electric machines on display indoors, gave visitors a chance to discover the momentum of the latest developments by manufacturers for better safety, productivity and energy efficiency.

There were so many big names and familiar faces in attendance, with our sales executives catching up with the likes of Magni, Merlo, BKT Tyres and so many more!

Kobelco

INTERMAT saw the European debut of Kobelco’s brand new 52 tonne hydraulic excavator, the SK520LC-11. With an operating weight of 52,900 – 57,200kgs depending on specification, and a bucket capacity of 3.4m3, the machine is powered by a 6-cylinder, Stage V emissions compliant Isuzu 6WG1 diesel engine offering a power output rating of 348kW @1,800rpm. It’s certainly a machine to be reckoned with!

Their outdoor exhibit was a resounding success, and Brand Marketing General Manager, Xenia Kolijn, was over the moon with the level of stand interaction: “It’s been such a good show so far. We’re so happy with how it’s going!”

Steelwrist

The interactive stand allowed visitors to experience how its tiltrotators, SQ automatic couplers, and work tools enhance excavator efficiency, and was the first opportunity for the public to see and experience all new products and solutions. The centrepiece of the product launch was the XTR20, the first model of the third generation Steelwrist tiltrotators, which demonstrates several innovative features from both hardware and software perspectives. Complementing the XTR20 were the first-generation XR rotor couplers and the secondgeneration XT tilt couplers. Adding to the already comprehensive range of work tools, Steelwrist also showed its new range of HCX compactors, MGX multi grapples and SGX sorting grapples. All new work tools are designed to be used under a tiltrotator increasing the flexibility and versatility of any excavator.

Alongside this, Steelwrist won bronze in the Earthmoving, Demolition and Transport category of the 2024 Innovation Awards for their Open-S Standard. Their Marketing Team Leader, Marianne Johansson was utterly delighted: “It was an honour, and we are very excited to see it recognised in this way.”

Wacker Neuson

Given INTERMAT’s emphasis on ‘Low Carbon’, it was the ideal opportunity for Wacker Neuson to present the extensive zero emission rang. Their stand boasted around 25 construction machines and equipment ranging from battery-powered rammers through to electric excavators. As a pioneer in the field of battery-powered construction machines, Wacker Neuson has continually expanded its portfolio since 2013. Alongside the development of new products, they effectively demonstrated their work on providing for the whole ecosystem, showcasing their changing infrastructure through services, financial solutions and various exploitation models, to the lifecycle analysis of batteries. Highlights of their stand included the first, all-electric telehandler TH412e and the EW100 wheeled excavator. The 10-ton wheeled excavator is unique in its class and sets new benchmarks, with intelligent attachment management and tool recognition, a well thought out human-machine interface, and preparation for diverse assistance systems and interfaces being just a few examples.

• All models catered for

Liebherr

With around 20 machines presented on their stand, Liebherr had a fantastic INTERMAT presentation. The range showcased tower cranes, mobile and crawler cranes, components, earthmoving machinery, material handling technology, deep foundation machines and concrete technology. And it wasn’t simply static displays, as they also had a huge focus on digitalisation!

“At Liebherr, digitalisation is an important driver of innovation and new product development. On the one hand, it increases the efficiency of processes and therefore helps to conserve valuable resources. On the other hand, new information technologies and digital networking are opening up opportunities to develop products and services further and to implement customer-centric solutions along an entire customer journey: from planning to operation, performance and maintenance and even safety-relevant aspects.”

No matter what brought you to the Liebherr stand, their dedicated team was ready and raring to boast their extensive range. A resounding triumph as always.

Tenstar Simulation

One of the many highlights of Tenstar’s stand was the Mobile Crane Simulator (one of the best simulator training systems worldwide). First introduced in 2022, Tenstar has worked tirelessly to develop and improve the model. The virtual machine is based on a Liebherr mobile crane, and as with the real machine, it can lift up to 60 tons and has a hoist height of 63 metres. Visitors were able to practice in an interactive and real-life environment, with many features mirroring those on the real machine. And truly, Tenstar had thought of everything!

Given that wind is a crucial part of operating a mobile crane, they have developed a dynamic wind system, which allowed visitors to practice in different wind conditions. They even had the virtual construction worker who could guide operators when loading and unloading. It’s no wonder then that they won gold at the Innovation Awards in the New Technology category for their Virtual Training Space.

LiuGong

INTERMAT was LiuGong’s first exhibition to showcase purely BEV machines. All in their distinctive signature green, these machines share LiuGong’s Red Dot Award-winning design DNA and put the operator right at the heart of the machine. Their showcase line-up included 4 new BEV machines for the European market, 2 excavators, the 9027FE and 922FE, and 2 wheeled loaders, the 820TE and 856HE, and as an INTERMAT show special, the electric machines were offered with 0% finance for a limited period.

The New 9027F – This compact model takes LiuGong’s popular short tail swing 9027F and changes the power pack to a 20kW LFP battery pack.

The New 820TE – LiuGong’s first compact wheeled loader product, this machine has a large spacious cabin, is capable of 40kph travel speeds and is powered by a 70kWh battery.

The New 856HE – A mid-class wheeled loader, the 856HE is powered by a 423kWh battery pack, and can work 10–12-hour shifts on a single charge, and fully recharge in just 90 mins.

The New 922FE medium-class excavator – Powered by a 430kW battery, this machine can work a full 8-10-hour shift with 90-minute recharge.

Dynaset

Dynaset had a fantastic INTERMAT show, not only showcasing an incredible range of products, but also scooping up the gold for their HRVB Hydraulic Recycling Vacuum Bucket in the Earthmoving, Demolition and Transport category at the Innovation Awards 2024.

CEO, Anni Karppinen had this to say of their win: “This is a truly amazing feeling! We’re thrilled to pick up the gold medal in the Earthworks, Demolition & Transport category. It’s a wonderful recognition of our team’s incredible development and engineering efforts. The development of this product also involved a lot of valuable customer cooperation. We want to express our sincere gratitude to all the partners who participated. The HRVB Hydraulic Recycling Vacuum Bucket is a fantastic solution for material collection and recycling for anyone working in the demolition industry. Thanks to the increased recycling rate, waste management fees will also decrease. This product offers significant benefits for maintenance and cleaning operations in other industries as well.”

Hiboo

The mixed fleet data platform is an absolute must for contractors, climate change driven companies, rental companies, software publishers and many more. Hiboo is software that collects data from all your heavy equipment and utility vehicles in one place, thereby enhancing your productivity and energy efficiency seamlessly, something that their stand reflected brilliantly.

Komatsu

With a prominent stand in Hall 5b, Komatsu’s indoor exhibit displayed nearly 30 machines, highlighting cuttingedge technologies and services with a particular focus on digitalization and electrification. Big highlights were the newly released PW168-11 and PW198-11 wheeled excavators, that took pride of place amongst their machines. They also boasted a Virtual Stand which provided a sneak peek at upcoming innovations. Komatsu’s dedicated team were on hand to provide comprehensive information and personalized assistance about the company’s high-tech product support and services, further demonstrating why they are such a recognised name in the industry.

SANY

SANY had a truly impressive show, showcasing 34 cuttingedge machines which ranged from excavators to concrete machinery as well as several hydraulic parts. Sticking to the show’s low carbon theme, SANY brought with them 6 pureelectric machines to the show, including two forklifts SCP35C6 and a mini excavator SY19E, highlighting the company’s dedication to environmental responsibility and keeping the construction industry as green as possible. Not only that, but visitors were lucky enough to experience the company’s intelligent manufacturing and digitalization initiatives through immersive presentations on a digital screen. And if that wasn’t enough, SANY also presented an excavator show over at the Driving Club. It was a chance for everyone to safely experience the amazing equipment firsthand through the game “Construction Simulator 3”.

Trackunit

The telematics and tagging specialist used their INTERMAT platform to present its latest technology. Keeping Low Carbon as a focus, they boasted their recently debuted emissions reporting system. This collects data from its telematics system and presents carbon emissions data, making it the perfect spectacle for INTERMAT’s key message. The K300 access control system was also demonstrated; a clever system which allows equipment owners and managers to control who can use machines. Technology is the future, and no-one proved this better than Trackunit.

Develon

This year’s INTERMAT was an exceedingly special event for Develon for a significant reason. It was their debut at the French show under their new name! Formally Doosan Construction Equipment, they marked the occasion with a shop filled with merchandise, featuring everything from clothing and accessories to a variety of scale models. A resounding success, their display also included the first European demonstration of Develon’s highly anticipated Concept-X 2.0 remotely controlled (autonomous) construction equipment solution. The amazing showcase involved the stars of the show - the DD100-CX autonomous dozer and DX225-CX autonomous crawler excavator. Develon was a powerhouse of both static and demo displays, combining the two perfectly in their very first outdoor stand at INTERMAT.

HIDROMEK

HİDROMEK, with international authorized dealers providing sales and aftersales services through its worldwide centres, had an extensive array of products on display, which illustrated their diverse range:

HMK 62 TC mini backhoe loader

HMK 102B Supra backhoe loader

HMK 140 LC, HMK 145 LC SR, HMK 230 NLC, HMK 310 NLC, HMK 390 NLC HD crawler excavators

HMK 150 WR, HMK 210 W wheel excavators

HMK 600 MG motor grader

HMK 635 WL wheel loader

HMK 130 CS soil compactor

Genie

Showcasing their latest TraX system, Genie celebrated a wonderful show at INTERMAT 2024. Featuring four independent tracks, the Genie TraX system enables smooth operation on rough terrain, and with oscillating axles, it has the impressive ability to swivel up and down by 22° ensuring the tracks can navigate obstacles in even extreme conditions. Available in two sizes, the system features 50% fewer serviceable parts than other track systems both streamlining inspections and reducing parts inventory requirements. Well done Genie, this system is an incredible victory!

Innovation Awards 2024

Reflecting this 2024 show, the INTERMAT Innovation Awards provided further evidence of the dynamic innovation in the design and manufacture of equipment and machinery to support energy transition, digitalisation and safety. Awards were presented to 17 winners.

Chair

Alain Grizaud – Chairman of FNTP

International Judges

Domenico Campogrande – General Director of European Construction Industry Federation

Michel Petitjean – General Secretary of European Rental Agency

Maria Moreno – International Director, Asociacion de Empresas Constructoras y Concesionarias de Infraestructuras

SEOPAN

Alessio Rimoldi – Secretary General of Federation of the European Precast Concrete Industry

Brian Jones – President of the Construction Plant-Hire Association

Massimiliano Ruggeri – Technical Director of Inamoter

Michele Levati – Director of Lombardini 22 Civil Engineering

Heinz G. Rittman – CEO of Deutscher Auslandsbau Verband

Kjetil Tonning – FIEC Honorary President Norway Civil and Structural Engineer

The French Jury

Dominique Chevillard – Technical and Research Director of FNTP

Christophe Possémé – President of UMGO-FFB

Fabrice Blanc – Equipment Director of Eiffage Génie Civil

Maxime Chamillard – Labs Coordinator and Innovation Strategy Consultant of Impulse Partner

Vincent Simon – Director of Ambassador Engagement for Worldskills

Mathhieu Amengaud – Director of Ambassador Engagement for DLR

Frédéric Peigne – Project Director of Grand Paris Express Lines 16 and 17 for Société du Grand Paris

François Renault – Equipment and Environment Director of Kiloutou

Anthony Goubert – Influencer, Radio TP

• Open to both CPA members and non CPA members

• Being co-hosted by former BBC TV presenter Merryn Myatt and content specialist Peter Haddock

• The essential event for the plant-hire industry

• Interactive panel debates discussing key topics such as innovation, decarbonisation, digitalisation, skills, business growth, succession planning and mental wellbeing delegate ticket price for CPA members. Email enquiries@cpa.uk.net for more info. 50% OFF

Book delegate tickets online at www.cpa.uk.net/events/ cpa-conference-2024 for £80 plus VAT including lunch.

7TH NOVEMBER 2024 at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre near Coventry LAST FEW EXHIBITION SPACES LEFT

The conference will run alongside a small, targeted exhibition. Contact Lisa Collins on 07968 840390 or email lisa@lisacollinscommunications.co.uk for further details.

Winners

Earthmoving, Demolition and Transport

GOLD

DYNASET OY - HRVB Hydraulic Recycling Vacuum Bucket

HRVB Hydraulic Recycling Vacuum Bucket transforms the hydraulic power of the base machine into powerful vacuum suction and air blower. HRVB is a compact and integrated all-in-one attachment unit for gathering, recycling, and sorting material, scrap, and similar matter found at construction sites, parks, roads, and railways. The HRVB unit also works as a powerful air blower to clean and collect lighter matters like leaves. The HRVB is designed as an attachment for the excavators and material handling machines. As a stock order, the HRVB unit also comes with a 7.5m long suction hose for the auxiliary suction port for vacuuming material by hand.

SILVER

DURATRAY INTERNATIONAL - Smart Tray

Duratray’s Smart Tray (ST) is the most advanced dump tray for mining and construction trucks. The ST can monitor its condition (structural and wear) automatically and report to the user online and in real time.

BRONZE

STEELWRIST - Open-S

The work to create the Open-S Standard was started in 2019, and has been spearheaded by Steelwrist and Rototilt, two companies that normally are fierce competitors but still decided to work together for the greater purpose of a common open, manufacturer-independent Global standard for fully automatic quick couplers. An immense amount of work has been put into the project and all initial funding has been carried by the two founding companies, Steelwrist and Rototilt. Several manufacturers are now in the pipeline for admission.

Roads, Materials and Foundations

GOLD

BOMAG - Bomag emergency brake assist

BOMAG Emergency Brake Assist is a technology designed for road construction machines that prevents collisions while protecting the hot asphalt surface from damage. The machine continuously scans its surroundings for perfect coverage. The system is able to detect potential hazards before they occur. This allows for the early application of automatic deceleration strategies.

Key features:

• Scanning of surroundings using multi-level lidar technology

• Projection of the machine’s travel path based on speed and steering angle

• Reliable detection of people and objects in the machine’s travel path

• Fully integrated solution enables the machine to “see around corners”

• Collision prevention through automatic braking

• Multiple braking strategies that adapt to the operator’s driving behaviour

• Early anticipation and braking strategies protect the hot asphalt surface from damage

SILVER

DMS TECHNOLOGIE GMBH - Excavator Blade Control (EBC)

The excavator blade control (EBC) is an automated control system for the excavator blade. Grading jobs can be done with the blade instead of the bucket, when the EBC is installed giving the possibility to do levelling jobs supported by an automated control system. The system consists of a laser receiver, the control system which is installed on the excavator, with the mast attached to the blade. The system is highly productive, easy to use and affordable! The result is a doubled productivity and a better end result of the levelling job.

BRONZE

SUPPLY COMPANY - Pigment in tablet form

Pigment in solid form without dust, easy to dose with automatic systems (unlike its initial form: powder), no longer fears moisture (more product loss) respectful of human health (more nano particle with titanium dioxide: carcinogenic) according to (Titanium dioxide (FT 291). Regulation - Toxicological data sheet – INRS. Environmentally friendly, because it disperses just by friction and more by heat and friction (for the road sector) thus reducing the cost of gas or electricity and a sharp decrease in CO2 emissions into the atmosphere. This form can be used in all sectors of activity: concrete industry, road industry, paint industry or pigment used in the form of paste: : “mixture of water and pigment” and transport where there is a high carbon footprint.. Storage is easier than powder pigment with less constraints from humidity.

Building, Civil engineering and Concrete Sector

GOLD

BETOLAR - Geoprime Hollow-Core Slab

Betolar offers a sustainable, low-carbon concrete material with its Geoprime® solution. The proposed solution makes it possible to transform large volumes of previously unused industrial by-products into an alternative cement to replace portland cement, which is responsible for 8% of global CO2 emissions. Geoprime is a cement-free material designed for various concrete and construction product applications. It is completely equivalent to traditional cement-based concrete but has up to 80 % lower carbon footprint. With the Geoprime Hollow Core Slab solution, today’s most environmentally friendly hollow-core slabs, they are helping manufacturers of precast concrete elements to meet the demand for building products with a low carbon footprint. The solutions are easy to implement in current production, without the need for major production modifications.

SILVER

ARANEA - Composite Fibers AraNea AraNea Composite (Michelin Group) offers the construction market a glass resin composite fibre that can replace all, or part of, the reinforcement used in precast concrete elements. The fibre provides interesting mechanical and chemical characteristics for the dimensioning of concrete structures: mass/weight ratio, anti-corrosion, reduced reinforcement coating, adaptation to low-carbon concrete. These qualities make it possible to achieve significant C02 savings not only during construction, but also throughout the life of the structure. AraNea Composite is positioned as a highly technical, low-carbon reinforcement.

BRONZE

SELFBETON - Concrete filling station SELFBETON

The SELFBETON automatic concrete distributor is a global concept designed to give access to the purchase of fresh, ready-to-use concrete and mortar to all professionals and private individuals who need small quantities of concrete (from 3 wheelbarrows). SELFBETON is an automated production system that allows users to buy concrete online. The machine then produces the customer’s order in complete autonomy and delivers the ready-mix concrete directly to the customer’s trailer or adapted vehicle in less than 3 minutes. The originality of the concept lies in its automatic cleaning system, which generates no waste and no effluent. Selfbeton is less polluting than a simple concrete mixer.

Low Carbon And Energy Transition

GOLD MOOG CONSTRUCTION - TerraTech Ecosystem

TerraTech is a proven, integrated, electric ecosystem combining control software, durable hardware (electric cylinders, vehicle control modules, motors, controllers, energy management), and digital insights through IoT.

SILVER

NOVUM TECH - Electrifical system

A complete range of electrification systems from 48V to 800V, with a power range of 5kW to 350 kW, tailored to the current challenges of the market. These solutions address a wide range of applications, from small vehicles to large industrial vehicles (mini-excavators, road vehicles, trucks, agricultural machinery, etc.). They consist of several technological components assembled together to deliver a finished, Plug’n’Play product in series, and at lower costs for customers.

New Technologies

GOLD

TENSTAR SOLUTION - VTS - Virtual Training Space

Tenstar’s invention is the only one in the world that lets several users exercise and learn together in a range of different fields, such as construction, agriculture, or the transport sector. It’s a system of several training simulators connected in a sandbox environment.

SILVER

EXCESS ENGINEERING - Electric Actuator (A HydraulicFree Option)

Excess Engineering have developed an electric actuator that replaces heavy-duty hydraulic systems, providing an all-electric system to push, pull, and lift with an energy efficiency of 87%. This solution combines high power (80+ tons) and a long stroke (up to 3 m). The electric system offers numerous advantages, including improved energy efficiency, the absence of hydraulic oil requirements, and an extended service life. It can be designed in a compact form factor comparable in size to existing hydraulic systems, eliminating the need for significant modifications to the construction machinery’s structure when replacing hydraulic systems with electric actuators.

BRONZE

MOASURE - Moasure ONE

Introducing Moasure, the world’s first motion-based measuring tool revolutionizing construction and civil engineering. Moasure’s patented technology transforms how professionals work, enabling rapid and simultaneous measurement and drawing. By simplifying the measurement of challenging shapes and spaces, Moasure empowers construction experts to adopt a new approach with real-time data viewable on their devices. This innovative tool allows users to draw, capture in 3D, factor in gradients, elevations, and calculate areas effortlessly, even around obstacles. Moasure provides accurate surface area and volume calculations, aiding in material ordering and site levelling.

2 Start-up Special Awards

HERACLES Robotics

HERACLES Robotics is developing an autonomous navigation and work system, operational on existing public works equipment, to perform driverless earthmoving operations. The goal is to offer public works companies complete earthmoving services, with reduced costs and deadlines, carried out by autonomous construction vehicles. This solution addresses three major constraints faced by construction companies: Intense price competition, linked to services lacking a differentiating factor, a need for flexibility to concentrate interventions during dry weather periods and a shortage of equipment operators.

MUODIM - Muography Structural Imaging

Today, the technologies available are very limited when it comes to seeing through matter. Here are some examples of problems that current technologies cannot solve:

• Blind tunnel digging: Tunnel boring machines (TBMs) dig blind under cities with little information available about the areas they will encounter.

• Aging bridges, we can’t see inside the infrastructure to identify weak points.

However, muography, a new disruptive technology in the world of non-destructive monitoring, is gradually making its appearance: Muography, or structural imaging, involves mapping the interior of an object to produce images similar to those used in the medical world.

World Of Concrete Europe Special Award

PUTZMEISTER - e-Mixer iONTRON

100% electric truck-mounted concrete mixer for 100% electric driving and mixing:

Moving Electric truck 8x4 SANY 408P

Mixing Electric body P 9 G iONTRON

100% ecologic

• CO2 emissions down to zero, depending on the local energy mix

• Significantly reduced noise emissions

• Fuel consumption: zero liters of diesel

• eChassis consumption on the move (unladen): 120 kWh/100 km

VIP Dig Experience for CPA Plant Operative of the Year Winners

National Apprenticeship Week marked the perfect opportunity to reward some of the Construction Plant-hire Association’s (CPA) Stars of the Future award winners.

Stars of the Future is the CPA’s awards programme for apprentices and trainees in the construction plant sector and since it was established over 10 years ago, it has become firmly rooted as the sector’s premier event for recognising and rewarding apprentices who are earmarked as future leaders of the industry.

Two of the winners from the CPA Stars of the Future Awards 2023 were Roksana Przybylska of L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage who won Plant Operative of the Year and Chloe Jones of Flannery Plant Hire who was awarded the Young Plant Operative of the Year accolade.

As part of their prize, Roksana and Chloe were welcomed to JCB’s World Headquarters in Staffordshire to enjoy a VIP JCB

Experience comprising a tour of the Story of JCB and a visit to the Backhoe Loader production line, before transferring over to JCB’s test and demonstration quarry to try out the JCB 3CX Pro and 4CX Pro as part of a Backhoe Loader Dig Experience. The visit also included an overnight stay at the JCB Golf and Country Club.

Prior to the visit, Chloe had already completed a week-long training course at ACOP Group’s training facility – another part of her Star of the Future prize – enabling her to gain her 180° Excavator ticket. Chloe completed the training course alongside joint Young Plant Operative of the Year winner Harnoorpreet Singh Gill of L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage.

The VIP JCB Experience was organised by Georgina Williams, JCB Application and Training Manager – Backhoe Loader who said: “It really has been inspiring to spend time with some of the CPA Stars of the Future winners. This visit has allowed Roksana and Chloe to try out our Backhoe Loader –our flagship product that JCB began with some 70 years ago.

Pictured from left to right: Chloe Jones, Georgina Williams and Roksana Przybylska

“It’s important for us to engage with the next generation of Plant Operators and keep the product moving forward with new technologies. Over the last 12 months, there has been a 20% increase in Backhoe Loader Operators which is very encouraging. Stars of the Future is a great awards scheme which recognises tomorrow’s leaders of the industry and anyone nominated for an award gives us great hope about the future.”

Roksana has been operating plant for almost four years now and came into the industry by chance, having previously been a florist. Her fiancé’s brother knew how much Roksana enjoyed driving and suggested that plant operating might be a good career choice moving forward. Such was her passion for getting into the sector that Roksana self-funded her 360° Excavator course and considered it a Christmas present to herself!

The Lynch team recognised Roksana’s passion and determination to succeed and she was offered a place on the company’s ‘Careers in Plant’ training programme. She jumped at the chance and hasn’t looked back since, having worked on prestigious projects such as HS2. She has now got several different tickets including 360 Excavator, Lift Option, 56B-ADT, A09A-Tipping Dumper, A57D-Dump Truck/Tracked and A31-Roller.

Roksana said: “I have been so impressed during the visit to JCB. The tour was like going to a mini museum and it was so interesting learning about the Bamford family setting up JCB and the evolution of the plant machinery. I think Lord Bamford is like the Einstein of Construction!

“I was so excited to try out the Backhoe Loader for the first time. It’s very comfortable and it’s so versatile because it does the job of a Dumper, Excavator and Telehandler all in one. You can use the digger and the shovel on just the one machine. I can’t wait to carry out the training course.

“When I was at the Stars of the Future awards last year, my blood pressure went sky high when they were announcing the winners. It was brilliant to win the award and all my friends and colleagues were so happy for me. This has been a fantastic prize and I absolutely love working in this industry. I love going to new sites and meeting new people and I’d like to progress my career further, maybe becoming a Site Assessor in the future.

This has been a fantastic prize and I absolutely love working in this industry.

“Seeing how far I have come and the skills I have learnt has driven me to see how far I can go. I am at an exciting point where I feel I understand the value I can add. Having the right attitude is what has got me here so far, and ambition and determination are what will take me further than I thought possible. I have had the opportunity to work on some fantastic projects and continue to grow daily both personally and professionally. I hope one day to be the reason someone else finds this amazing career path,” she added.

Chloe has also been plant operating for almost four years and when she first finished school, she originally set her sights on becoming a Veterinary Nurse, but this didn’t go to plan and she was in and out of various jobs until COVID hit.

Chloe’s Dad has worked at Flannery Plant Hire for over 10 years as a Plant Operator, and it was he who encouraged Chloe to apply for a Plant Operative Apprenticeship position. It was definitely the right choice, as Chloe has already worked on flagship projects such as Fawley Refinery in Hampshire, participated in several Flannery Women in Construction events to encourage more women to enter the sector and she has received recognition industry-wide in her short time in the sector.

As well as winning the Stars of the Future award, Chloe has secured a 12-month mentoring programme as part of Balfour Beatty’s 5% Club. Chloe was one of just 10 successful apprentices from across Balfour Beatty and its supply chain to be chosen for the coveted Founder’s Pledge Award. Balfour Beatty Group Chief Executive Leo Quinn launched the Founder’s Pledge to commemorate the 10th anniversary of The 5% Club, which he founded in 2013 to tackle the UK’s national skills shortage. For the next year, Chloe will be personally mentored by Flannery Managing Director Patrick Flannery.

Chloe said: “I’m so glad that my Dad encouraged me to enter the construction plant sector. I’ve already had so many amazing opportunities – I’ve worked on lots of different sites in places such as Southampton, Aylesbury and Norfolk, as well as those closer to home such as Dover and Folkstone. There’s such a variety of work and no two sites are the same.

“There are so many different career choices in the industry and I’d love to work my way up to management level at Flannery. Winning the Young Plant Operative of the Year award has opened up so many new opportunities for me already.

There are so many different career choices in the industry and I’d love to work my way up to management level at Flannery.

The Stars of the Future awards programme is all about encouraging new blood into the industry who will become tomorrow’s leaders of the industry.

“I was excited to go back on the Backhoe Loader again, as I completed the training course at ACOP Group last year as part of the Stars of the Future prize so it was nice to get back in the seat. My first impressions of the JCB 3CX were how versatile it is, as you can do nearly all jobs with just one machine. The cab is very comfortable, with a lot of storage space and everything is so smooth. On the sites that I work on, Backhoe Loaders always seem to be busy and I can see why. It’s a good ticket to have and overall the visit to JCB has been amazing - it’s an experience that I’ll treasure forever.”

Peter Brown, CPA Technical and Development Manager, who chairs the Stars of the Future judging panel added: “We’re very grateful to JCB for providing such an impressive prize that’ll create memories that will last a lifetime, and we also pass on our thanks to our award sponsors ACOP Group, L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage and NOCN Group.

“The Stars of the Future awards programme is all about encouraging new blood into the industry who will become tomorrow’s leaders of the industry, and it’s been heartening to spend time with Roksana and Chloe who have such a passion for the industry. It’s an exciting industry to be in and the trip to JCB has allowed them to have a much greater understanding of how plant is both designed and built and to try out their skills on the Backhoe Loader. It’s certainly advantageous for Plant Operators to have gain extra categories on their cards as they become more adaptable, being able to operate a greater range of machines.”

The CPA has received 80 nominations for the Stars of the Future Awards 2024 and judging is currently underway. The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre near Coventry on 11th July 2024. The CPA Stars of the Future Awards 2024 are being held in association with event sponsors GAP Group and L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage, award sponsors ACOP Group, Liebherr, L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage, M O’Brien Plant Hire, NOCN Group, Southern Hoist Services, Wolffkran and lunch sponsors Plant Planet. The event is also being supported by JCB.

More information is available at

www.cpa.uk.net/skills-training/stars-of-the-future

Pegasus Elite Unmatched Safety and Performance for Construction Excellence

The Pegasus Elite ensures maximum safety and efficiency, ideal for demanding construction environments.

Anti-Tilt System-Pro: Advanced anti-tipping with dynamic load calculation.

Automatic Boom Movement: Six modes (Normal, Soft, Heavy, Eco, Wall, Floor) for optimised and safe movements.

Load-Sensing Pump: Dynamic adjustment based on working conditions.

Enhanced Cab Features: Dual display with real-time safety alerts and intuitive controls.

Soft Motion Function: Slows movements to reduce dynamic effects and shocks.

Easy Work System: Auto-adjusts loading capacity based on outrigger position for stability.

Operator Visibility and Control: 12’’ display for monitoring, with up to three cameras for around-vehicle monitoring.

Safe Access and Ergonomics: Four access ladders, walkway, and ergonomic controls for safe entry and operation.

LED Work Lights and Backlit Keypads: Enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.

Reclining Seat: Facilitates overhead operations for added safety and comfort.

CASE TO SHOW WHEEL LOADER AND CRAWLER EXCAVATOR ADDITIONS AT HILLHEAD 2024, AS THE COMPANY LOOKS TO AN ELECTRIC FUTURE

Visitors to this year’s Hillhead quarry exhibition (June 2527) are invited to call into the CASE Construction Equipment stand (X10) throughout the three-day show. CASE will have a wide spread of equipment on display, both static on the stand and working in the exhibition’s waste and recycling area, the secondary rock handling area and in Crusher Alley, where blasted rock will be processed.

While CASE will display a wide range of excavators, much of the focus for the show will be on the new CX210E-S tracked excavator. This ‘Essential’ excavator retains all of the power and performance of the standard CX210E, yet boasts an increasingly competitive price point and a simplified list of options.

Built with heavy-duty components throughout, the machine delivers all of the performance, operator comfort and productivity that customers expect.

Customers looking for a premium wheel loader will be drawn to the new 651G ‘Evolution’. Built to sit between the proven 621G and the 721G, the 651G boasts increased loading performance, thanks to reinforced front and rear chassis sections, plus heavy duty axles as standard with a choice of locking differentials. The machine delivers classleading productivity and economy.

Keen operators will also be able to try their hand at the controls of our compact machinery, in an exciting, fun operator challenge that will take place on the stand throughout the event.

Our equipment lines will be backed up by the full range of CASE parts and service solutions, along with CNH Capital financing services, plus undercarriage

products from our partner Sampierana. Product and market specialists will be on the stand throughout the show, for discussions with customers. Just call by and enjoy the best of CASE hospitality.

“Hillhead provides a unique opportunity for our customers and the media to see our machinery in action and to take a closer look in detail on the stand,” said Olivier Buschino, Business Director for the UK and Republic of Ireland.

“We look forward to welcoming customers, new and old, to the stand and having the opportunity to show the very latest technical innovation and engineering excellence on show from CASE Construction Equipment.”

To learn more about CASE Construction, please visit: www.casece.com/en-gb/europe/

MB CRUSHER AT HILLHEAD 2024 – LET THE SHOW BEGIN!

If you are wondering yes, we are stealing from Bonnie Tyler lyrics, for a good cause. Because we are setting up this year’s show with the mantra “If we don’t remember anything – we’ll sure remember this.’’ We moved location from the last “scorcing’’ edition. Althought people do expect us Italians to be able to cope with the heat, we preferred to relocate to the top of the quarry so attendees don’t have to embark on a quest to come to see the MB Crusher units in demo. We will be at stand A32 and we will be demoing a grapple and a padding bucket, we will deliver immersive demonstrations that highlight the capabilities setting MB Crusher apart in the industry. We want you to remember us!

Innovative Solutions on Display

MB Crusher’s booth at Hillhead will feature units from both the compact and heavy line, presenting a diverse range of products tailored to meet the evolving needs of the industry. With solutions designed to seamlessly integrate with diggers, skids, and loaders, MB Crusher offers versatility that stands out. Companies seeking to enhance their fleet’s capabilities are encouraged to visit Stand A32.

In the dynamic world of groundwork, having the right tools can make all the difference in efficiency and productivity. MB Crusher, a leader in innovative crushing and screening solutions, offers two game-changing attachments – the Padding Bucket and Sorting Grapple –let’s delve into the distinct advantages these cutting-edge tools bring to the table and why you should come to see them working at stand A32

Streamlining Material Handling

MB Crusher’s Padding Bucket redefines the process of handling materials at the site, its versatility ensures that it can be seamlessly integrated into any fleet, providing a customizable solution for different projects.

From landscaping to pipeline construction, the Padding Bucket is a versatile asset that adds value across a spectrum of applications, the MB Crusher’s unique system allows the operator to purchase one unit and several interchangeable shafts. Having just one tool that can carry out different task means streamlining operations, which translates into a seamless workflow, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity on the job site.

Efficient Material Handling

In the modern day fast paces environment we all need an extra set of hands. Let us introduce you to the Sorting Grapple from MB Crusher: a game-changer when it comes to efficient material handling. Designed for precision, this grapple allows operators to pick, sort, and place materials with ease. Its robust construction ensures durability, making it a reliable tool for demanding job sites. Moreover, each unit can be accessorized to satisfy any type of job.

TWO WINNING PAIRS FROM MAGNI AT INTERMAT 2024

As INTERMAT is one of the top construction machinery events, Magni TH chose this international stage to unveil two new telescopic handlers and two innovative attachments.

Excellent performance and compact size from the TH 3.6 fixed telescopic handler

With capacity of 3 tonnes (6613 lbs) and lifting height of 5.8 metres (19 ft), the new TH 3.6 combines small size with impressive performance. In fact, the most compact fixed telescopic handler in the TH range, intended for the construction and logistics sectors and soon also for agriculture, is able to lift its maximum load to a height of 5.4 metres (17.7 ft), 2,500 kg (5511 lbs) to the maximum height and 1,100 kg (2425 lbs) to a horizontal reach of more than 3 metres (10 feet). Its low-level design makes it ideal for tight spaces, while retaining optimal ground clearance for uneven terrains.

These characteristics, together with a Deutz Stage V engine of 55 kW (75 hp) give it a top speed of 35 km/h (21 mph). The four-wheel drive and steering, with hydrostatic transmission, provide superlative stability and manoeuvrability with 3 steering modes: front, concentric and crab.

With the launch of the TH 3.6 Magni also presents the new compact cab, which maintains the same development approach as its predecessor in the TH range together with a new dashboard that optimises the user experience through the ergonomic placing of the main controls. It also features USB ports (3.0 and c-type) for charging electronic devices and a handy cup holder. The new cab’s standard outfit is completed by the air-suspended seat, adjustable steering column, heating and radio.

Consulted via the 7 inch touch screen, the MCTS (Magni Combi Touch System) on-board software provides complete

control of the machine with icon-based navigation. From the main menu, the operator can access the themed screens with the various functions, including load charts.

Unlike competitor models on the market, which have the usual load cell systems, the TH 3.6 is the only machine equipped with a more sophisticated, precise tipping protection mechanism to maximise performance and safety, in line with the entire TH range. This is the LMI (Load Moment Indicator), which enables constant monitoring of the machine’s movements to prevent any kind of overload.

The new RHT 6.31 EC: concentrated efficiency and comfort

Magni launched three models derived from the market’s best-selling rotating telescopic handlers, the RTH 6.22, 6.26 and 6.31, all equipped with elevating cab. This feature is designed to optimise work in conditions that demand greater visibility and to guarantee the very best comfort level by providing the operator with an ergonomic position, especially when handling delicate loads or using specialist attachments. In these situations, greater visibility means safe, effective movements in even the most complex procedures, such as use of the tree cutting and log handling attachment. The hydraulic mobile support is able to raise the cab to a height of 1.5 metres (5 ft) and tilt it between 0° and +16° for optimal control in conditions where movements must be exceptionally precise.

Two new attachments: the 3D-Film handler and the tilting rotating forks

At the renowned Paris show, Magni also revealed two new attachments for the RTH and TH ranges: the 3D-Film handler and the 5T tilting rotating forks.

Intended for the movie industry, the 3D-Film handler has a surface fitted to support equipment such as LED light panels or floodlights used during filming in the studio or on location. With a capacity of 2.5 tonnes (5511 lbs) and continuous rotation through 360°, it provides unbeatable manoeuvrability and versatility to offer the optimal response to this specific sector’s needs.

The tilting rotating forks, on the other hand, are designed for handling bulky materials in tight spaces. Unlike standard forks, they rotate and swivel to optimise movement of the weight during loading and unloading. They deliver frontal lifting capacity of up to 5 tonnes (11,000 lbs), rotated load capacity of up to 2.5 tonnes (5511 lbs), continuous rotation through 360° and positive tilting up to 70°.

With targeted solutions for the demands of a constantly growing sector, Magni TH further extends its range of products to continue its expansion at the global level.

WHAT ARE YOUR ASSETS WORTH? THE HIDDEN COSTS OF INEFFICIENT TOOL MANAGEMENT

In the world of construction, every tool and piece of equipment is a critical asset. However, many companies fail to recognise the true cost of not having an effective asset management system in place. Beyond the price of the asset itself, the hidden costs of inefficiency can be substantial, affecting everything from project timelines to financial penalties.

The Real Cost of Poor Asset Management

Consider a busy construction site. Machinery whirrs, workers bustle, and the demand for tools and equipment is constant. Now, imagine a crucial piece of equipment goes missing. Workers are left idle, projects are delayed, and costs start to escalate. This scenario is all too common in an industry where time is money, and the absence of proper asset tracking can lead to substantial financial losses.

The Financial Implications of Delays

One of the most significant, yet often overlooked, costs associated with poor asset management is the fines accrued from project delays. Construction contracts typically include strict deadlines, and failure to meet these deadlines can result in hefty penalties. These fines can range from thousands to millions of pounds, depending on the project’s scale and contractual terms. In addition to financial penalties, delays can damage a company’s reputation, leading to lost future business opportunities.

The Benefits of Effective Tool Tracking

Implementing an effective tool tracking system offers numerous benefits that can help mitigate these risks:

Enhanced Productivity: Knowing the exact location and status of every asset reduces the time spent searching for tools and equipment, allowing workers to focus on their tasks and maintain project momentum.

Minimised Waste: Real-time data helps prevent overuse and misuse of equipment, which can lead to lower maintenance costs, increased billing hours and longer asset lifespans.

Improved Scheduling: With precise tracking, Project Managers can better coordinate the use of tools and equipment, ensuring they are available when needed and reducing idle time.

Reduced Downtime: By maintaining a well-organised inventory of assets, companies can avoid delays caused by missing or unavailable equipment, keeping projects on track. Wasted time is also reduced on unnecessary journeys to retrieve lost/misplaced assets.

Proactive Maintenance: Regular updates on the condition of tools and equipment enable predictive maintenance, preventing unexpected breakdowns and further delays.

Craig Allan, Specialised Sales Director at ABAX, highlights the importance of these benefits: “Effective tool tracking is not just about knowing where your equipment is; it’s

about ensuring that every asset is utilised to its fullest potential. ABAX tool tracking and inventory management solutions can significantly reduce downtime, minimise waste, and prevent costly delays. In the construction industry, these efficiencies translate directly into financial savings and improved project outcomes.”

Real-Life Impact

Svella, a leading telecoms and digital infrastructure provider, trusted ABAX with their inventory management.

Jack Boothroyd, General Manager at Svella Asset Services explains what a gamechanger ABAX Smart Inventory has been for the business: “Historically, there’s been no controls over our small plant once it’s issued from our set services into the field – and this has become very, very expensive.

“We’ve got over 400 vehicles in our business and a lot of these guys work together and lend each other tools… and then suddenly we have lost control of all the assets in our business.

“The beauty of ABAX is that we can try and locate everything and keep track of it at all times.”

Conclusion

The value of an asset extends far beyond its physical worth. Effective tool tracking can unlock the hidden potential of these assets, ensuring that every tool and piece of equipment contributes to the overall success and efficiency of construction operations. The cost of not having such a system in place is simply too high to ignore.

In an industry where every resource counts, optimising asset utilisation is not just beneficial – it’s essential. By embracing advanced asset management techniques, businesses can achieve substantial savings, enhance productivity, minimise fines from project delays, and promote sustainable practices.

Investing in a robust tool tracking system such as ABAX Smart Inventory is a strategic decision that can safeguard against hidden costs of inefficiency, securing a more profitable and reputable future for construction companies.

THE MEASURING TOOL THAT’S TRANSFORMING THE INDUSTRY

Introducing Moasure, the innovative Warwickshirebased company currently transforming the construction industry with the world’s first motion-based measuring tool. Moasure’s patented technology helps to solve both complex and common measuring problems faced by construction professionals, offering increased accuracy, versatility and efficiency.

Moasure provides capabilities simply unachievable by traditional measuring tools. For example, tape measures and laser levels are much more prone to error and manual miscalculations. In comparison, Moasure’s pocket-sized tool, using accelerometers, gyroscopes and advanced algorithms, allows professionals to measure both faster and smarter.

The construction benefits

Moasure simplifies the process of measuring complicated terrains such as vast quarries, sloping ground, uneven foundations and irregular shapes. Its technology inherently streamlines workflows, helping construction professionals save on valuable time, money and resources. As you move around the job site, Moasure’s smartphone app draws 2D and 3D measurements in real-time, providing a comprehensive diagram and automatically calculating area, perimeter, elevation, volume and more.

Key game-changing features

Moasure offers several indispensable features for construction experts, including its ability to measure stockpiles more efficiently using perimeter calculations and elevation point captures to determine material volume. Moasure can also generate site topography maps, and features a ‘Cut & Fill’ calculator for precise quoting processes, especially when ordering materials such as concrete, aggregate or mulch. Additionally, the ‘Add Depth’ feature uses measured surface area and desired depth of coverage to generate accurate and more profitable quotations.

Exporting made easy

Captured measurements can then be directly exported into CAD software like AutoCAD, Vectorworks, SketchUp and many others – without any additional costs or subscription fees. Measurements can also be sent directly to colleagues and clients alike, cutting down on time spent manually designing site plans and leaving more time to progress the construction project further.

Award-winning worldwide appeal

Recognised both nationally and internationally by several industry awards, including the recent dual King’s Award for Enterprise win across both Innovation and International Trade, as well as Concrete Contractor’s Top Products of 2024, Moasure continues to solidify its position as a pioneer in technology. Now retailing to thousands of construction professionals across the world, Moasure’s growth can be attributed to its dedication to product innovation, customer satisfaction and user experience enhancement.

Ready to see Moasure in action? Visit the Moasure team at Hillhead 2024 (stand PB13) from June 25th –27th for a live demonstration and to chat to the experts.

ROPS+ A CONCEPT SOLUTION TO THE CHANGING INDUSTRY STANDARD

At Hillhead 2024, Thwaites will introduce ROPS+, a concept solution that ensures operator safety and standards compliance, with manufacturing standard EN474 2022: part 6, effective from the spring of 2025.

The standard refers to front mounted dumpers, with an operating mass of over 3,500 kg & under 4,500kg.

The standard states that these machines shall be provided with an additional means (for example cabs) to prevent the operator from being ejected from the overall dimensions of the machine, in the event of a machine tip or roll over.

For Thwaites this will mean that dumpers in the 1-tonne to 4.5-tonne range will be below the threshold and unaffected by the new standard.

Dumpers in the 6-tonne and 9-tonne range however will be affected.

To comply with the standard, the 9-tonne Front Tip dumper will be offered exclusively fully cabbed only.

The 6-tonne Power Swivel and Front Tip dumpers will be offered with two fully compliant solution options.

Option 1: Cabbed Dumper

Thwaites have offered cabbed dumpers for over 50 years; today, a fully cabbed version of both the 6-tonne Power Swivel and Front Tip, in addition to the 9-tonne Front Tip machine are available. To comply with the standard the 9-tonne Front Tip dumper will be offered exclusively fully cabbed.

The same cabbed option will be available for the 6-tonne Swivel and Front Tip dumpers; however, with many customers preferring an open dumper Thwaites will be offering an alternative to the cabbed dumper with the fully compliant ROPS+.

Option 2: ROPS+

ROPS+ is an extension of the established Roll Over Protection System, (ROPS).

Made from the same high tensile steel the wrap around design places the operator in the optimum position to minimise risk, should a machine tip or roll over occur.

From the design to today’s concept safety system, Thwaites engineers have ensured the build process delivered tangible, compliant benefits. The result being a quality engineered, Thwaites product, that customers and operators would see real value in.

Design Features & Benefits

A substantial latch bar is pulled over and locked into position in front of the operator. The seat and seat belt both have safety sensors that prevent any workarounds.

This interlocking safety sensor process ensures the operator is in the optimum seat position, the seat belt is securely fastened and the latch bar is engaged. The machine will not drive until the Triple Lock is employed.

In addition, the ROPS+ design provides an additional handle when mounting the dumper, further reducing the risk of slips and falls.

A padded panel to right and left of the operator, provide upper body protection, with the rear box completing the safeguard ‘halo’ effect. All to minimise the risk to the operator in the event of a machine roll over situation.

With no similar alternatives on the market Thwaites are undertaking a series of customer feedback sessions to determine suitability from a cost, value, compatibility and perception perspective.

Watch the video to find out more here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Lss9GllZmwI&t=16s

AUTHENTIC TO THE INDUSTRY

AUTHENTIC TO THE INDUSTRY

Hello one and all and welcome to our very first issue of Demolition Spotlight!

On behalf of myself and the team, I cannot tell you how truly excited we are to share this labour of love with you. We have worked so hard to bring you a mini mag that is truly authentic to the industry, and what better way to launch that with this cracking line up!

Our first case study is with the wonderful Shorts Group, where we touch base with them at the start of a brand new project. Not only that, but our lead interview, Demo Report, is with Andrew Hope of Shorts Group, who tells all about his extensive demolition career.

We are also thrilled to have Mark from TL Dallas provide our very first Demolition Dilemma, where he takes us through the trials and tribulations of demolition insurance. And on top of all this, and the latest news from the industry AND exclusive content just for us, we are excited to celebrate Hughes and Salvidge’s milestone anniversary of 60 years in the business! So without further or do, let’s kick things off!

Three, two, one… BOOM!

Rebecca Phillips Managing Editor

Welcome! our team

DARREN SHELTON BUSINESS MANAGER

MARTINA TONELLI MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR

REBECCA PHILLIPS MANAGING EDITOR

LORNA COWLIN CONTENT CREATOR

CHARLOTTE WALSH SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE

STEVE WILSON DESIGN MANAGER

ANDREW HOPE SHORTS GROUP LTD

LUKE GOULD HUGHES AND SALVIDGE LTD

MARK CLEMENTS TL DALLAS AND CO LTD contributors

For all content related queries, please contact editor@demolitionspotlight.co.uk

For all sales related queries, please contact charlotte@demolitionspotlight.co.uk

10K UNITS MILESTONE FOR GROUNDHOG

MAY 2024 SEES THE 10,000TH MOBILE WELFARE UNIT MANUFACTURED AND DELIVERED FROM OUR HQ IN SOUTH WALES.

We are so proud of this achievement, having delivered the first ever Groundhog in 1987 to a new customer, The London Borough of Hillingdon.

GH0001 was a brand new concept, with the mobile welfare unit having all facilities powered by gas. The main feature of the new Groundhog was the patented ground lowering system that enabled the user to tow the welfare unit to site and lower securely into position, literally hogging the ground, hence the name Groundhog.

After many years of exhibitions, shows and understanding clients’ requirements, GH5000 was delivered in August 2014.

This unit had the same basic principles of GH0001, only this time offered stateof-the-art sustainable features from our new GP360 Fusion Pulse range, giving the user carbon reduction savings through a single roof-mounted solar panel and onboard battery charging system.

GH10000 will be delivered to our strategic client Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, having worked together for many years to develop the iRange to meet their specific requirements for

their end users. The i550 and i500 twin toilet offer sustainable welfare facilities, giving generator free running for summer periods and up to 90% reduction in carbon emissions throughout the winter months. This is a far cry from the original GH0001

Emma Tongue, product innovation manager at Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, said, “It is vital that any investment we make in site welfare solutions is aligned with our net-zero goals and our commitment to being a responsible business. Working collaboratively with Groundhog, we’ve been able to develop a product that not only meets the enduser needs – a space that is welcoming, enticing and more inclusive. The units

are also continually helping us to reduce our carbon emissions via the solar panels, reduced vehicle movements and influencing behavioural change through the visible telemetry within the units.”

Groundhog will continue to develop sustainable welfare units that will serve the hire and end user welfare markets for years to come. We are looking forward to seeing what GH15000 will look like!

To learn more about Genquip Groundhog, please visit: www.groundhog.co.uk FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

DYNASET’S HRVB HYDRAULIC RECYCLING VACUUM BUCKET WINS GOLD AT INTERMAT INNOVATION AWARDS

Dynaset is thrilled to announce that the HRVB Hydraulic Recycling Vacuum Bucket has been awarded a gold medal in the Earthworks, Demolition & Transport category at the prestigious Intermat Innovation Awards 2024! The ceremony was held on the evening of April 24th, where DYNASET CEO Anni Karppinen and R&D Director Pasi YliKätkä proudly received the prize.

“This is a truly amazing feeling! We’re thrilled to pick up the gold medal in the Earthworks, Demolition & Transport category. It’s a wonderful recognition of our team’s incredible development and engineering efforts. The development of this product also involved a lot of valuable customer cooperation. We want to express our sincere gratitude to all the partners who participated.

The HRVB Hydraulic Recycling Vacuum Bucket is a fantastic solution for material collection and recycling for anyone working in the demolition industry. Thanks to the increased recycling rate, waste management fees will also decrease. This product offers significant benefits for maintenance and cleaning operations in other industries as well,” summarized Anni Karppinen.

The competition was fierce. Steelwrist, a leading global manufacturer of tiltrotators, quick couplers, and work tools for excavators, secured third place. Duratray, a renowned design, engineering, and manufacturing company for dump bodies used in haulage equipment, came in second.

This recognition underscores the HRVB’s groundbreaking design and its potential to revolutionize waste management processes in the demolition, construction, and property management sectors.

A Multifunctional Marvel for Waste Management

The HRVB Hydraulic Recycling Vacuum Bucket is a true game-changer, combining the movability of a traditional excavator bucket with a powerful vacuum cleaner and an air blower. This innovative attachment utilizes the hydraulic power of compatible mobile machines to generate a strong vacuum for efficient waste sorting and debris collection.

Optimizing Waste Handling and Site Cleanliness

The HRVB excels at separating smaller debris from rubble piles, streamlining waste sorting tasks and contributing to

DYNASET HRVB Hydraulic Recycling Vacuum Bucket is a combination of an excavator bucket and a vacuum cleaner. It can be used for fast and efficient waste sorting and for worksite and demolition site cleaning and material sorting for example.

cleaner worksites. Its robust vacuum capabilities, with a negative air pressure of -8 kPA and a maximum airflow of 3.4 m³/sec, allow for the collection of various materials, including wood, wool, plastics, and even light expanded clay aggregate (LECA). This translates to improved waste treatment procedures and potential cost savings.

HRVB (Hydraulic Recycling Vacuum Bucket) also improves work safety as the collection of the various materials can be done without manual labour, adds DYNASET Marketing Manager Jyri Hartikainen.

DYNASET CEO Anni Karppinen and R&D Director Pasi Yli-Kätkä received the prize at Intermat Innovation Awards ceremony.

DEMOLITION SPOTLIGHT AT HILLHEAD 2024

Building on the momentum of the record-breaking 2022 show, Hillhead 2024 is set to have more exhibitors and live demonstrations than ever before with all the leading OEMs signed up for the biennial quarrying industry extravaganza.

With around 600 UK and international companies showcasing new products and service solutions at the show, and more than 20,000 visitors expected, it is the perfect climate to launch our brand new mini mag.

The excitement in the office is truly palpable, with the team bristling enthusiasm to attend the show.

Charlotte // Senior Sales Executive

“We are eagerly looking forward to debuting our first mini mag issue of Demolition Spotlight at Hillhead. What better place to launch a title for the industry than the largest mining and quarrying show in the UK. We are proud to demonstrate why we are the new home for demolition.”

Darren // Business Manager

“I am excited to bring another title to the industry. Since Demolition Spotlight’s inception, I have been astounded by the fervour and feedback from the industry. There is a gap in the market, and we are ready and raring to fill it.”

Rebecca // Managing Editor

“Demo Spotlight presents an incredible opportunity to bring so much dynamic and authentic content to the demolition industry. The uptake so far has been astounding and I can’t wait to boast about all our hard work at Hillhead and beyond.”

Make sure you come and visit us on our stand PC44. We can’t wait to share our new venture with you all!

DISMANTLING

SOFT-STRIP/REFURBISHMENTS

FACADE RETENTION

SITE CLEARANCE/BULK EXCAVATION

Shorts Group

The unnamed site in the centre of Norwich marks a first on many counts. Not only is it the first Case Study for Demolition Spotlight, but as the furthest distance Shorts Group has travelled in England in amongst their many projects, this venture is an exciting new undertaking for the ever-reliable demolition company.

Unlike many case studies, we are not coming to this project towards the end. In fact, we have the honour to follow this project right from its very foundations. So, what might seem like the barest of bones now will grow and flesh out with time, with Demolition Spotlight returning to site to see this incredible progress for ourselves.

For now, though, let’s delve as much as we can into the extensive Norwich site. As with any Shorts project, the correct due diligence is where it all begins. After a lengthy tender negotiation, the service discussions were then able to begin. Beere Group was brought in to lead the disconnections, liaising with the relevant service and utility providers and carrying out the appropriate surveys from everything on-site, including gas, telecoms and electric. And ensuring the building is fully disconnected to enable demolition to commence safely.

By the time we had arrived on site, the building had been fully disconnected and the first stages of stripping the building had been carried out over a six-week process. This included the internal asbestos removal and internal soft strip, a tightly controlled process. Such an approach is paramount at this particular site, due to is close proximity to neighbouring properties and builtup environment. In fact, the client is particularly proactive when it comes to the local area, making a special effort to work with the residents and take their concerns into account. What might seem like red tape actually makes the work perimeters much tighter and succinct, as there are then clear guidelines on what will and won’t work. This even included things such as full carbon reports on both the current site and the predicted site, so that the local area could have full disclosure on what impact the project will have in the long run. And to show the development will have a positive effect on the sustainability front.

Location: Norwich

Client: Working in partnership with Zive Capital Time Spent: 6 Weeks to date

Time Remaining: Estimated 22 Weeks

On Site Persons: Andrew Hope MCIOB, MIDE and Aaron Malin

Aaron Malin

The environmental aspect of the demolition is also a key driver for Shorts Group and feeds into their overall methodology. Hardcore materials will be crushed and recycled on-site for reuse, minimizing the need for new raw materials and reducing the carbon footprint of the project. All metals will be taken off-site for recycling, and waste will be segregated on-site into recycle streams to divert potential waste from landfill. With a target of 98% of waste to be diverted from landfill and either reused on-site or recycled, this approach not only promotes sustainability but also aligns with the company’s commitment to environmentally responsible practices. This underscores the project’s positive long-term environmental impact, demonstrating a proactive effort to ensure that the development contributes to sustainability goals.

For Shorts Group, this certainly aligns with their regular processes and values, and the client’s due diligence and research into what they had to offer meant that both parties knew they were match for one another. And for Shorts, long-term partnerships are always a longterm aim.

The multifaceted approach to a work site is definitely something that instils confidence in a client, and for Shorts Group and their various factions, that is always something they can bring to the table. As they have their own waste services, it offers clients a more complete package in terms of demolition projects. This is especially so with on-site waste, when a company ‘in the know’ pays dividends.

This particular site in Norwich is large, to say the least, which might lull people into a false sense of security that there is plenty of space to store on-site waste and materials until it’s processed or collected. However, with the designs Zive Capital have for the project, it has rendered much of the area unusable for storage and processing, and there by a possibility to box themselves in. So, one of the biggest obstacles for this site will be to manage this. This is an aspect that both Andrew and Aaron the site manager are fully aware of and will be using their extensive knowledge and finesse to traverse.

Shorts Group’s hands-on and transparent approach is what ultimately won them the tender. Knowing that the site had special limitations, not only with space but also with their proposed methodology.

Shorts proposed methodology ensured its processes took into account the confines of the site.

Ensuring the impact on the locality was and is kept to a minimum. Minimising noise, waste and disruption. Control over a site like this is absolutely key.

Other problems to date included regular site issues, one being security. Unfortunately, any worksite makes for a nice, secluded spot for nefarious deeds if not properly restricted and watched. So, 24-hour camera surveillance as well as a physical security presence was needed. Right from the point of disconnection, this was also considered, with the disconnections being undertaken, electrical lighting was left active until the site was fully secured to provide necessary coverage. To ensure the safety of the residents and anyone transiting the site to take a short cut.

The next stage in the process will be to start the demolition, a tightly controlled process with much of the mechanical demolition being performed by their Molson Group supplied Kobelco SK550DLC high reach demolition excavator with Mantovanibenne CR 20 rotating concrete cracker with their Hyundai 52 ton and Hitachi 35 ton excavators to assist, it is estimated that between 4-6 machines of varying sizes will be involved in the process, with the high reach Kobelco already onsite ready and raring to go. As with most Shorts projects, Kobelco and Hitachi are brand favourites and supplemented alongside Steelwrist, to give better productivity and versatility.

Tried and tested is certainly a common feature with Shorts Group.

Due to the close proximity of the building to a neighbouring property, there is also an element of top-down demolition required which will involve demolishing the end section by hand and using Brokks. Once this is down to a safe height the remaining section will be demolished traditionally to enable space to install a physical barrier on the end and a demolition curtain then supplement the control measures.

Andrew and Lee Goswell, Contracts Manager are the leads that balance the running of the project, each with their own strengths that complement the others perfectly. Lee deals with the operational side of the business, liaising with the workers on-site, creating RAMS and method statements. Meanwhile, Andrew deals with things commercially; with all his communications mainly client-facing, as well as having an eye for detail in Excel spreadsheets and financing. With their constant communications, they are able to complete the perfect balancing act, both tackling the project with eyes on every possible angle.

Approaches such as this make Shorts Group the incredible force they are today. Each and every project has this personal, detailed approach, with the utmost care being taken right from the off. For us here at Demolition Spotlight, we are exceedingly excited to be involved in their work in even some small way and can’t wait to see each step of this project along the way.

Demolition Insurance – What are the main pitfalls to look out for?

Obviously it is important to get the main, basic points right. Such as the title of insured, including all of your companies, the business description being wide enough and detailed enough to include all of your activities including anything you could do once in a blue moon. I would suggest it is not enough to just say demolition contractor, as this can mean different things to different underwriters.

All insurance policies contain “small print” terms and conditions. Some are more onerous than others and some can have more serious consequences than others, but what are the main ones to look out for:

Underground Services – policies can require the contractor to obtain copies of all service plans. As these are often inaccurate, also carry out scans to identify any services and ensure their location is conveyed to those working on site. Adopting such a method of working on site minimises the risk of damage to services. Retain a full record of all the enquiries made and measures taken to locate services to minimise the risk of damage to them.

Burning & Welding / Hot Works – whilst with the increased use of cold cutting methods hot works are reducing, they do still give scope for major fires. These can effect neighbouring properties and particularly in the case of strip outs where the parts of the property remain. Often policy definitions of hot works can include disc cutters, grinders and hot air guns, as well as oxy cutting, blow lamp/torch and welding. Policies can require the contractor to clear/free the area around the works of all combustible materials however practical this might be. And, before burning off anything projecting through a wall or partition, to examime the other side (even if it is the neighbouring property) to confirm thre is nothing which could be ignited by the conduction of heat.

Asbestos – it is important to check the extent of any asbestos exclusion as some do not define and therefore exclude all asbestos. Including any accidental discovery, non-licensed or works by licensed BFSC.

Bona Fide Sub-Contractors – policies can require BFSC to have the same Public Liability limit as you have. Do your smaller BFSC or those carrying out lower risk works for you have the same Public Liability limit as you?

PPE / Safety Equipment – policies can require you to issue all employees (which includes self employed, labour only sub-contractors, agency and other not just direct/PAYE) with suitable, properly fitting and effective PPE / Safety Equipment that shall be in full working order, that you have trained them in the use of, that they sign for receipt of and you enforce disciplinary action against any employee not using PPE / Safety Equipment.

Plant Security – policies can require sites to be fenced with padlocked gates, larger items of plant to be physically immobilised and for attachments and smaller items to be in a locked building/security container when the site is unattended, overnight or at weekends.

Whilst many of these requirements would be a good idea in an ideal world, unfortunately things are not always so practical on a live working site. It is therefore important you do consider any policy requirements in light of what actually does happen on site. If you have any doubts about compliance on site, do not accept them. Failure could result in the claim not being paid leaving you and your business unprotected and at risk.

DEMOLISH. CRUSH. RECYCLE.

THE COMPLETE DEMOLITION SOLUTION

Six decades of experience provided by one of the UK’s leading Demolition and Decommissioning companies.

Demolition & Decommissioning

Dismantling & Asset Recovery

Decontamination

Airport Specialist

As a full-service demolition contractor, we work with our associated companies to offer the complete solution to our clients, providing significant cost savings via our complimentary offerings. The complete solution enables us to accurately forecast our waste arisings to achieve a recycling rate of over 97% on every project, limiting our impact on the environment and the communities we work in.

THE COMPLETE DEMOLITION SOLUTION

Established in March 1964, we are proud to celebrate the milestone of achieving 60 years in business! After a record 2023, we stand here today as a Global organisation, able to provide international clients with our Complete Solution.

Our philosophy, and mission, is to provide our clients with high quality demolition, decommissioning, dismantling and asset recovery solutions through our extensive skills and expertise, while maintaining the highest professional standards and respecting the areas we work in.

Enhanced by the complementary offerings of our divisions K&B Crushers, our concrete crushing service, H&S Metals, our metal recycling arm, and H&S Asbestos, our Asbestos Removal division, we provide clients the complete solution – ‘demolish, crush, recycle’ - entirely in-house.

H&S Metals

H&S Metals support our decommissioning, demolition and dismantling activities by ensuring maximum return and recycling. Recycling nonferrous metals is good for industry and good for the environment. Protection of the environment and the prevention of pollution are essential considerations across our divisions.

K&B Crushers

Crushing demolition arising’s on-site offers a range of environmental, logistical and financial benefits. It reduces pollution by drastically minimising demolition traffic movements to and from the site, keeps concrete debris out of landfill and the aggregate produced provides the construction site with a ready-made piling mat material, along with other applications including a substitute for virgin aggregates.

H&S Asbestos

H&S Asbestos undertakes asbestos removal on a wide range of different sites, working in conjunction with our specialist teams to remove licenced and non-licenced asbestos. Being able to provide this skill in-house provides the client with cost savings and the peace of mind that collaborative working is already in place between the demolition and the asbestos teams.

By offering this solution to our clients we can also represent significant cost savings and limit the impact on the environment from our works. We are able to accurately forecast waste arisings and aim to recycle over 97% of all demolition arisings on every project. Our Green Hands Initiative is an internal environmental strategy and action plan,

including seven key performance categories, providing steps for positive reinforcement, improvement and development.

Our client facing approach from initial budget costing through to final project completion ensures first class communication, client satisfaction, and successful and safe project completion. All our projects are undertaken in accordance with the approved programme of work, phased operations and safe demolition techniques. All activities are planned, undertaken and monitored in line with the Risk Assessments, Method Statements, Project Health and Safety Plans, and Environmental Plans.

Our Senior Management team are responsible for objective setting and monitoring health and safety management. This takes the form of a full annual audit as well as ongoing audits and monitoring. We are also regularly audited by external parties such as ISO, Achilles, NFDC, SMAS and CHAS. The outcomes of these audits confirm our systems and any recommendations/actions required to help us to evolve and improve. Not only is the welfare of our employees a top priority within our organisation, but our ability to deliver projects safely is fundamental in our ability to secure future work for our business.

With this in mind we are constantly monitoring what we do as well as looking to identify improvements and developments to enable us to not only meet but exceed industry standards and expectations. Safe Hands is a coal face initiative designed to capture Health, Safety and Environmental related experiences from our project sites. Whilst we are proud to be at the forefront of Health and Safety in our industry, we are always striving to go that one step further and continue our exemplary safety record.

Helping Hands is our Social Value Initiative aimed at enhancing and supporting the communities that we work in. Helping Hands covers five main pillars of Social Value: Charity, Community, Wellness, Development and Sustainability, and provides project specific and annual objectives for the company to achieve.

As we continue to grow, so does our responsibility to the communities in which we operate. We achieve this by monitoring, and evolving, our three initiatives supporting the Environment, Health and Safety, and Social Value. Safety and environmental awareness takes precedence on all our projects, and we are committed to delivering responsible and sustainable practices.

We have successfully completed a vast portfolio of technically challenging projects, carried out for a valued client base including blue chip companies, developers and main contractors, local authorities, government bodies, health trusts and utility companies. We possess a wealth of experience delivering diverse projects. No project is alike, we regularly adapt our ways of working to accommodate this and surpass client needs and expectations.

We just want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported Hughes and Salvidge. From our site staff to our Head Office staff, our UK and now our Global partners, we couldn’t have managed this without the hard work and dedication from you all.

Thank you, and here’s to the next 60 years! www.hughesandsalvidge.co.uk

The groundhog hybrid Fusion Pulse welfare units provide an eco-friendly solution for on-site welfare accommodation, yielding considerable savings for owners and end users and providing all your on-site needs in one reliable and cost e ective package, ideal for rental companies and contractors.

The latest concept in hybrid solar technology delivers cost e ective, environmentally e icient, robust & easy to operate welfare units.

Generator is NOT needed. The Fusion Pulse units are powered by solar technology, with generator backup, charging the 12V battery, allowing operation of LED lights, inverter powered sockets and the heating system.

Saving you money.

These environmental features give owners and end users savings by way of reduced fuel usage, 80% reduction in generator servicing, longer generator life, fewer breakdowns and massively reduced noise pollution.

Helping you achieve realistic carbon reduction goals

After an exceedingly thorough site visit with the man himself, I must admit that I was very ready to settle in for a nice chat over a Chai latte and baklava. Lucky then, that Andy pointed out a quaint little café across the road for such an endeavour. Soon enough, we had our sweet treats, and were ready to reminisce over his time in the business. So then, Andy, as with all interviews, we start off simple. When did your career in Demolition start?

If I remember rightly, it was 2006, but I’ll have to check on LinkedIn. (Andy then proceeds to diligently check his phone.) Yep! September 2006. Originally, I started off in construction as a roofer. I lived with other friends in the industry, and we set up a casual business working on projects as a team. And from there we went on to do big renovations for Oxford University, including Lord Patten’s house when he became Chancellor for Oxford.

Wow! That’s quite a transition!

It was certainly very exciting at the time. I think though, I wanted to be a little more straightlaced with the processes. We were young, and I think for them they just enjoyed their life in that moment in time. But I was more forward thinking, so I put myself through my HNC, and for one of my case studies I interviewed a demolition company. And as it turned out, I must have impressed the MD and he said, should I ever want a job, then I had one working for him. And the rest is history. And where did you go from there?

I went to work for Maylarch for about 9 years, and honestly it was a lovely company. They were really family oriented and always wanted to invest in people; you know, help them succeed.

But they weren’t a forever company for you?

Not in the end, sadly. They were at the time very dedicated to the Oxford area, and their work is very much aligned to cut and carve working for a subcontractor, but that was too restrictive for the career I wanted for myself at the time. It also didn’t have the focus on heavy demolition that I was really interested in. I also felt that I had reached as far as I could go with in the company and started to feel capped in my role. So felt it was time to make a change to broaden my horizons.

Andrew Hope MCIOB, MIDE

Editor, Rebecca Phillips, interviews Andrew Hope from Shorts Group for this very first edition of Demo Report, to talk about his extensive career in Demolition.

Where did you go from there?

Bath Demolition for 5 years or so,

Is that what drew you to them?

They, as a company, where more heavy plant orientated, which was going to give me the opportunity to secure and manage larger demolition projects. They generally acted more as a principal contractor, opposed to acting as a subcontractor. The advantage from a demolition contractor’s point of view on that is when you’re under this main contractor, you’re controlled by the main contractor. This can add costs and does not give you a direct line to the client.

Can you give me an example?

Not a specific one, but a scenario sure. A lot of the time, although they do, of course, have building knowledge, the main contractors might not be as up to date with demolition specific knowledge. This can then restrict you on how you’re undertaking the demolition. And what I’ve found working with a lot of main contractors over time, is that they’ll see one risk and want you to remove that risk, without realising that by changing that one thing, you’re adding six more risks that can have a higher risk. So having full autonomy over a site is a huge bonus. I feel both on a Health and Safety aspect but also commercially. On the commercial aspect, if you have direct dialog with the clients any changes to scope I feel can be more quickly resolved. When working under a main contractor there can be other motives in play that can have an impact on you commercially.

And now you are at Shorts?

Absolutely. I’ve been here for 18 months, and I really love it. What attracted you to Shorts Group in particular?

Again, it is more heavy demolition work rather than groundworks which I had slipped into in my previous role, as well as much more potential career progression. But honestly, the main selling point was Gary himself. He’s always had a reputation as being a really good guy, and when you first

hear that you immediately think, “well what’s the catch?” And there really wasn’t one. He’s fantastic to work for and really lives up to his reputation. The company is also very strong in reinvestment which in these uncertain times in the construction and demolition is key to job security especially with a young family to support.

Do you have a clear plan of what you want to achieve in your time at Shorts?

In this case, as the company grows, then I know I will too, so I want to invest my time into expansion as a whole. Our team is already getting bigger, and I want our revenue to double. So sustainable, organic growth is the key to that. But as I have highlighted with the company commitment to reinvestment, I know this is achievable.

How will you start that process?

With good relationships, most certainly. We have a wholesome, reliable reputation, and that’s a fantastic cornerstone in getting these relationships off the ground. As I like to say, ‘why get a cow and slaughter it for meat, when you could nurture it for its milk’. We want our clients to know they can rely on us to give them best value and service in class.

That’s a really good way of looking at it, I must say. Thank you.

So, can you tell me a bit more about what your day-to-day job looks like?

It’s definitely varied. I’m the first point of call for clients, so it’s good to get their perspective on a project. My role is more commercially orientated, which is then balanced operationally, by Lee Goswell who runs the works operationally. I suppose we’re a bit of a double act, balancing both sides. I know demolition commercially and from an engineer’s perspective, but I have never been in the machines taking buildings down. Lee has, so he’s better positioned to offer that perspective. We support one another. I think the beauty of my job is getting the client’s opinion firsthand. I was once dubbed the ‘poshest man in demolition’, which doesn’t necessarily sound like it

helps, but I think my background gives me the perfect blend of interpersonal skills. I’m comfortable on site or rubbing elbows with people in bow ties. I think clients like that because I’m able to speak their language; keeps the approach as professional as possible.

Still looking down the line here, do you think you’ll look to go international?

I mean, Barbados would be fantastic, I could swap my truck for a speed boat, but domestic is our focus. If we’re approached by an international client, it’s ‘never say never’. Right now, Norwich is the furthest we’ve gone since I have been with Shorts, and we’re happy with that.

It does certainly sound like you have a lot going on. Both day-to-day and long term.

Absolutely. I leave at 5:30 most mornings, regardless of where I need to travel to that day. I’m a creature of habit, so no matter how long my drive is, that’s when I’m out the door. My general commute to Bracknell from Cheltenham gives me a little time on the way in to plan my day, and on my way home to decompress, but the thing is, I love my work. I like giving that much time to it. I’m so lucky to have the support of my wife. She’s the one leading the front lines at home, and I try to muck into the trenches when I can. But I certainly couldn’t have the career I do without her, so I’m eternally grateful to her.

Well, sounds like your personal life is set. Final question then. What has been the biggest highlight of your career to date?

There have been many but to give one, I would say knocking down the toll bridges on the M4. Sounds silly, but because of the type of work it was, being a major motorway and the main arterial route into Wales. There was a lot of pre planning work required by Highways England which entailed planning the works to the minute detail to ensure every eventuality was covered off and contingency evaluated. So, we spent weeks in the planning. The works in comparison took only 48 hours for each section. But due to all the pre planning when it all comes together you feel a great sense of achievement.

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Mark Clements Affiliate Member

NEW VOLVO EXCAVATORS ELEVATE CUSTOMER PRODUCTIVITY

Anew range of excavators from Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) show they have the edge with a modern makeover that takes customers into the future – while pushing the boundaries of productivity, fuel efficiency and total cost of ownership.

Volvo EC230

The newest models have been revamped to be more spacious and ergonomic than ever before as part of an ambitious design concept to help customers achieve outstanding results. The new range – thanks in large part to a new operator environment with improved human machine interface (HMI) – not only looks good but has been built to robustly respond to the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Kurt Deleu, Head of Product Management Excavators, says: “We have always been proud to lead the market with our innovative line of excavators, and now with this new range we are helping our customers get even more out of their machines. This modern design significantly improves the operator experience, allowing machine and human to deliver a powerful performance fit for the challenges of today’s worksites.”

First to be introduced in Europe and Turkey are the newest EC500, EC400 and EC230 crawler excavators – all of which benefit from the same impressive range of technologically advanced features and were unveiled at Volvo Days 2024 in Eskilstuna, Sweden.

Volvo EC500

Enhanced operator experience

A stylish new operator environment provides even more space and comfort, with a coolbox to store items and USB and Bluetooth connections to charge mobile phones, play music and aid on-site communication. Furthermore, thanks to an improved HMI, a keyless engine start and an always-on camera, a productive working day can be carried out with ease and, above all, safety. Better sealing also ensures less dust passes inside the cab, while improved heating, ventilation and air conditioning secures a superior air circulation and a reduced risk of fatigue. Together with lower noise levels and built-in sunscreen, the operator experience is now more comfortable than ever.

Improved fuel efficiency and TCO

The intelligent technology behind the new electro-hydraulic system enables sensors to monitor operator movements and send signals to command the enhanced main control valve. The result is smooth and precise movement of the excavator’s boom, bucket and other attachments, as well as more accurate digging and loading.

Among a host of other efficiencyboosting features are a smart cooling system, engine speed regulation and engine pump optimization to further minimize energy consumption, as well as an auto power boost function to ensure an automatic setting of the system pressure.

All of these extra features not only result in improved fuel efficiency but are a cost-effective boost to total cost of ownership (TCO).

Precision and productivity

The new excavators are made to help customers achieve more for less, and work with more precision and speed than ever before. Thanks to the new electrohydraulic system and the automation of boom and bucket movements, operator fatigue is reduced and efficiency increased, enabling precise digging and shorter cycle times with minimal input.

The advanced electric control joysticks and fully electric travel pedals provide lightning-fast response times, while the swing control, bucket angle control and a tilt bucket and tiltrotator control all help the operator maintain a precise cutting angle with just the press of a button.

Safety in hand

The opportunity to pre-set limits on the boom’s depth, height and swing ensures operators carry out their tasks to the highest possible standards of safety. This can help them to avoid overhead or underground hazards, such as power lines, pipes and cables, and walls or barriers – as well as, most importantly, any humans on site.

Volvo Smart View with Obstacle Classification gives operators a 360° visibility of the machine’s surroundings, thanks to its camera and new radar detection system. Benefiting from deep learning technology, the feature alerts operators if objects or human beings are

detected nearby or even far away. The radar’s reach can be easily pre-set on a high-definition screen, depending on the confinement of the work environment.

Superior serviceability

Volvo excavators already boast some of the longest service intervals in the industry, with 1,000-hour engine oil,

engine oil filters and fuel filter changes. But with these recent upgrades, servicing is improved still further with daily maintenance now safer and easier to achieve from the ground level. The engine hood is now fully openable, the swing out condenser makes the radiator and oil cooler easier to inspect, a convenient shut-off valve prevents fuel

leakage and fluid draining has been made simpler and more environmentally friendly.

Volvo EC230

Even more of an edge

The new generation state-of-the-art functionality can be enhanced with the addition of Volvo CE’s pioneering range of smart solutions including Volvo Active Control, On-Board Weighing and Dig Assist 2D and 3D, which provide unrivalled machine guidance and control technology.

To find out how these new and improved excavators from Volvo CE can give you the edge in productivity, please visit https://www.volvoce.com/europe/en/ products/excavators/edge/

SANY CRANE GLOBAL KEY ACCOUNT SUMMIT 2024: A COMMITMENT TO PARTNERSHIP, QUALITY, AND INNOVATION

From May 20 to May 22, 2024, over 400 partners and customers of SANY Crane from all around the world gathered in Huzhou, Zhejiang province to join the annual SANY Crane Global Key Account Summit, experiencing the quality, innovation, and vitality of SANY’s crane. During the two-day event, SANY’s Heavy Crane Business Group showcased about 36 units of flagship products, covering SAC2500E, SAC600E, SAC700E, SRC1200T, STC1600T7, SCE1350A-EV, SCE1500TB, and SCC3200T, among which 15 units have been sold outside China.

Mr. Yuan Yue, president of SANY Heavy Crane Business Group expressed a warm welcome and sincere appreciation to partners and customers from all over the world, “we attach great importance to our partnership, and it is your valuable advice and trust that shape our high-quality and robust products.”

One of the highlights of the event was the captivating machine “parade”, where a batch of cranes demonstrated their prowess through a series of live operations, showing the outstanding performance and intelligence of the SANY crane:

• Loading/unloading and counterweight with one button: the tech selfdeveloped by SANY saves one personnel with automatic alignment of counterweight oil cylinders, automatic loading, and unloading, as well as automatic counterweight identification.

• Changing span flexibly: With the arbitrary combination of outriggers of different lengths, the crane is able to operate in narrow spaces under the condition of urban renewal and steel structure lifting, enhancing the lifting capacity by 20%.

• Extending and retracting boom with one button: This industry-first technology realizes the intelligent cooperation

between the telescopic boom and winch, ensuring that the height of the hook from the ground is always controlled within the safety range.

In the customer meeting held on the afternoon of May 21st, Tom Liu, general manager of the Overseas Marketing Company of SANY Crane introduced the global layout of SANY crane from the aspect of “Growth, Progress, Value and Win-win”, expressing his confidence in the global market. Customers, in turn, shared their stories and insights, underscoring the transformative impact of their collaboration with SANY. Many recounted their initial cooperation with SANY as a “try it” attitude, and now they have turned into SANY’s staunchest partners after witnessing SANY’s development during these years. As the crane industry continues to evolve, SANY remains steadfast in its mission to deliver superior products and services, driving progress and prosperity for customers worldwide.