ZoneSafe® uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to create detection zones around vehicles and mobile plant.
Vehicle-mounted antennas detect RFID tags which can be worn by workers, or placed on objects or property. When a ZoneSafe tag enters a detection zone, the vehicle operator receives a visual and audible alert. A vibrating tag also warns the detected worker of an approaching vehicle.
ZoneSafe RFID technology does not require line-of-sight and tags will be detected regardless of obstructions, blind spots, adverse weather or poor visibility.
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Plant Planet were deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen. Plant Planet joins everyone around Great Britain, the Commonwealth & the World in paying tribute to her lifetime of public service and the remarkable legacy that she leaves. Rest in Peace, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, 1926-2022.
It’s been a very busy few months at Plant Planet with the launch of our first standalone issue of our sister publication, Future Waste, and its launch at the RWM & LetsRecycle Live show. This month will see the Plant Planet team at the CPA annual conference, which takes place on the 20th October at the Heart of England Conference Centre in Fillongly - a must attend event for those in the plant-hire sector!
This issue of Plant Planet contains the lowdown on even more industry events including RWM, UK Construction Week Birmingham and a look into the highly anticipated BAUMA show, taking place at the end of this month!
On top of this, our October issue is bursting with the latest innovations from Flannery Plant, as they not only celebrate their 50 year anniversary this year, but also look towards working, learning and improving together to create a more sustainable future. We also have two exciting interviews from Adrian Watts of Hirebase and Nicola Troy of Strickland MFG, as they delve into their incredible history and what brought them into the industry.
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
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Plant Planet team
David Chuck has worked in the Construction Plant industry for over 50 years. As well as being a contributor to Plant Planet magazine, David is a social media and website management consultant, and a Partner of Kingston PR.
Rachel Lambert is a PR consultant and the founder of Kingston PR, a business she started over 28 years ago.
former magazine editor, she is also a freelance writer covering a range of sectors.
Kevin Minton, Chief Executive, Construction Plant Hire Association,has worked for the CPA since 2007 and has been instrumental in working with Members and other organisations to promote and develop the safe and healthy use of construction plant.
Literature
the
of Exeter.
has now joined
Planet as a regular contributor.
A round up of the news from the plant machinery industry over the past two months.
The Construction Plant-Hire Association, conference is just around the corner! Find out what you can expect from this years action packed line-up.
Magni Telescopic Handlers: Alex White, Managaing DIrector of Magni Telescopic Handlers, delves into why they don’t sanction non-homologated attachments.
Sinoboom: Sinoboom looks into their MEWP range is designed to offer a comprehensive set of reliable solutions for various work-atheight tasks.
RWM & Letsrecycle Live: Kate Hutchison looks into the action packed machinery that was on display at this years RWM & Letsrecycle Live event.
Air Spectrum: Air Spectrum delve into the importance of prioritising air quality and the elevated risk it poses to those in the construction, demolition, and waste industry.
UK Construction Week: Plant Planet take a look into this years UKCW and the new features ready for this year’s event.
Strickland MFG Ltd: Rachel Lambert sits down with Nicola Troy to find out what brought her into the world of construction equipment.
A look at some of our advertisers' exciting products and services.
• Liebherr-Components intro duces LiXplore® as the new range of digital camera-moni tor solutions
• LiXplore Bird’s Eye as 360° variant offers machine opera tors an ideal surround view and allows users an easy and fast calibration
• Key component of the systems is the MDC3 digital smart cam era, which stands out with its consistently high image quality
At Bauma 2022, Liebherr’s components product segment will be introducing LiXplore®, its new range of digital cam era-monitor system. Depending on their needs, users can choose between differ ent versions and intelligent additional functions. The proven components - the digital smart camera MDC3 and display controller DC5 – DC5 ensure the robustness and quality of the entire system.
The permanent and precise monitor ing of work processes and routes is a challenge for the operators of mobile machines. Whether construction equipment, agricultural machinery or forklifts, blind spots due to the size of the machine, as well as obstacles in the field of vision impair the view from the cab. Demanding environmental condi tions, such as vibration, strong tempera
ture fluctuations and humidity add to the difficulty.
Camera-monitor systems are an ideal solution, when it comes to monitoring work processes at several operating sites simultaneously. They can display multi ple views on one single monitor, for ex ample the rear and boom of a harvesting machine. The advantage of digital camera technology over the analogue one is image quality and sharpness. High-res olution cameras by Liebherr provide detailed images and result in more effi ciency and comfort for the operator.
“For more than ten years, we have been producing digital Ethernet cameras and displays for mobile machinery. We are now merging our experience and exper tise into the LiXplore® product line,” says Alexander Bertsch, Head of the Sensor Product Line at Liebherr-Elektronik GmbH in Lindau (Germany). Liebherr’s camera-monitor systems offer a high degree of flexibility. From the number of digital cameras, the field of view angles to the size of the display - users can put together their system according to their requirements.
360° variant as an intelligent assis tance system
The 360° variant LiXplore® Bird’s Eye variant offers operators a complete sur
round view of their machine’s working environment. The system seamlessly merges the images from four mounted cameras into one single bird’s-eye view. Compared to conventional, mostly analogue, surround view solutions that require an additional electronic control unit (ECU), the system is thus simple in design and economically wired.
In addition to the the classical bird’s eye view, the system allows users to define detailed views and overlays according to their requirements and to assign the corresponding function keys to the display. Operators can switch between views quickly and intuitively at the touch of a button.
Prior to operation, users first have to adjust or calibrate their surround view system - a time-consuming task that should not be underestimated, especial ly with a large fleet of machines. When developing Bird’s Eye, Liebherr’s com ponents product segment, therefore, attached great importance to a simple system that can be calibrated within a few minutes. The calibration mats do not have to be precisely placed, nor do the distances to other objects have to be measured. Bird’s Eye is thus ideal for anyone, who wants to save time and money with a streamlined commission ing process.
For the LiXplore product series, Lieb herr relies on the high-performance MDC3 camera. The HDR functionality continuously ensures high-contrast images without overexposure or under exposure, even in very dark working environments and in volatile light con ditions from bright to dark. The highly robust cameras are based on years of experience derived from operation in challenging industries, such as con struction or agricultural machinery.
Liebherr will present the new range of camera-monitor systems from 24 to 30 October at Bauma 2022 in Munich (hall A4, booth 326). ■
THE patent-pending tool co-developed by Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) and Granfors Racing has been adopted by the FIA and is the first solution of its kind to be devised as part of motorsport’s electric transformation.
• Adhering to strict FIA safety protocols, the prototype tool allows for electric rallycross cars to be recovered from the racetrack without any personnel handling the car – a first for motorsport.
• Volvo CE has co-developed the innovative ‘hands off’ solution with Granfors Racing using a Volvo EWR150E wheeled excavator, Engcon tilt rotator and insulated rescue plate to make recovery quicker, more flexible and above all safer.
• Patent pending, it is being trialled as part of the all-electric FIA World Rallycross Championship (World RX) – the next races of which will take place in SpaFrancorchamps, Belgium this weekend (October 8-9).
The new racecar recovery tool is a unique solution in the world of motorsport and is the first of its kind to be introduced to the tracks since the FIA began the electric transformation of its World RX race series. Thanks to the use of this patent-pending solution, the now 100% electric rallycross cars are recovered from the racetracks without any manual intervention – meaning no personnel have to walk on to the tracks and physically strap or hook the car to a recovery vehicle as would previously occur – making it not only safer to intervene, but also more efficient and speedier.
The solution has been created in collaboration with Granfors Racing and Engcon.
Volvo CE co-designed the solution in its role as Official Construction Equipment Supplier and Track Building Partner for the World RX race series, together with Swedish start-up Granfors Racing. After being trialed at the race weekend in Riga, Latvia, in September, it has now been adopted by the FIA as the most efficient recovery solution for the race series. Eagle eyed viewers will
be able to see it in action during the upcoming race weekend (October 8-9) in Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium.
Arvid Rinaldo, Brand Communication and Partnerships for Volvo CE, says: “With the speedy introduction of this innovative solution, we are living up to our commitment to push both our industry and motorsport forward when it comes to safety and sustainability. Thanks to this strong partnership with the FIA and Engcon, we are able to accelerate a shift towards electrification that is reliable, efficient and most vitally safe.”
With the advent of electric rallycross racing come entirely new safety considerations given that the rallycross cars can accelerate from 0-100km/h in less than two seconds – quicker than a Formula 1 car – combined with the inevitable care that needs to be factored in when handling electrically charged vehicles.
Benoît Dupont, Off-Road Category Manager for the FIA, says: “Electric racing is a new technology which brings
new challenges around safety – we need to adapt to that and create new tools. Volvo CE has been really proactive in helping us, creating a tool that allows us to remove the car in a safe and efficient way. And this is really what we were looking for – to add electric safety on top of efficiency.”
Because safety is not something to be taken lightly, the FIA has introduced a smart traffic-light system as part of its new electromobility safety protocols.
Whenever an electric rallycross car comes off the racetrack, a green light on top of the car indicates the safety status of the car. If it turns red, it indicates to those nearby that it is not safe to touch the car and to await official recovery of the vehicle.
To keep in line with this system and to allow the safe recovery of electric rallycross cars that have ‘turned red’, Volvo CE and Granfors Racing came up with their own three-fold safety system. Once drivers have been safely recovered from the car by trained officials, the car is then carefully picked up by a flat insulated rescue plate, which is controlled, lifted, lowered and angled as necessary with a 360° Engcon tilt rotator attached to a Volvo EWR150E wheeled excavator. The combination of these three tools together not only ensures the safe handling of batterypowered vehicles but also provides unrivalled efficiency and flexibility. The EWR150 wheeled excavator, run on biofuels, offers a tight, compact swing essential for the complex maneuvers required during
this process and the reliable handling needed to quickly and safely deliver the crashed racecar to the designated recovery area.
Developed in collaboration with Engcon, which provided the tilt rotator attachment, and tested under thorough safety requirements set by the FIA, the result is a collaborative innovation set to break new boundaries in motorsport safety.
Morten Fjeld-Nielsen, Sales Manager for Engcon Norway, says: “It’s fantastic to see Volvo CE finding innovative ways to use our tilt rotators in racing – proving how flexible and adaptable our solutions are to any application. Without this type of tool, the ability to rescue cars in the fast and efficient way that we do now maybe wouldn’t even be possible.”
The solution is also making a huge difference to driver safety. Klara Andersson, one of the drivers for the
Construction Equipment Dealer Team, says: “While we always strive to win and every race is an adrenalin ride from start to finish, we know that our safety is always front of mind at World RX, particularly as we navigate this new era for electric racing. With this new robust set-up, we can be confident that our safety is in good hands – and that any interruptions to the race are kept to the absolute minimum.”
You can watch all the action of the race in Belgium on World RX’s live streaming channel RX+. ■
GLP Training aims to be the training provider of choice for businesses and individuals across the UK. Founded in 2013, we deliver cost-effective tailored training solutions through apprenticeships, diplomas, NVQ’s and short courses developed in partnership with our clients to meet their workforce needs.
Our experienced curriculum developers work with clients across various industries to create bespoke courses tailored to fit their requirements and build a framework of development opportunities and skills ready for the future.
Awarded Ofsted good provider in January 2022, we continue to maintain and develop our courses and offerings to meet industry developments and national skills shortages. Our practices are continually reviewed and approved to reflect their most recent developments.
Established within Buildings Maintenance and Facilities Management, GLP Training has continued to grow, learn, and progress with our employers to deliver a strong portfolio of construction-based courses and trade-specific qualifications to meet the demands on skills within the UK.
Our passion is to assist more young people into construction-based careers offering construction and trade-based apprenticeships such as Property Maintenance, Building Services Engineering and Safety, and Health and Environment Technician to help support those stepping into the industry and existing employee development through workforce upskill apprenticeships.
A suite of intensive courses progresses individuals’ skills for entry construction roles and the necessary credentials to start work straight away, such as the CSCS card and Health and Safety. Commercial courses in trades such as plastering, bricklaying and carpentry, we are proud to support companies to attract a new generation into the construction and facilities industry.
EMINOX a leading designer and manufacturer of emis sions reduction technologies and Speedy have joined forces to improve air quality.
The pioneering project will lead by example, highlighting how compli ance can be achieved as part of public and occupational health strategies in advance of stringent emissions legis lation.
The partnership will see Speedy’s generators retrofitted with an Eminox exhaust aftertreatment system which will cost-effectively upgrade power generators from Stage IIIa to Stage V compliant standards.
This will enable equipment to be deployed where regulations such as London NRMM Low Emission Zone, Clean Air Zones (CAZ) and Medium Combustion Plant Directive (MCPD) are enforceable, and on pioneering
projects such as HS2 sites across the country.
Andy Meakin, Chairman, Eminox commented; “It was a pleasure to welcome the new Group Managing Director at Speedy Services, Dan ny Johnson, to our headquarters in Gainsborough so he could experience first hand the real-world results of our market leading approved retrofit emissions control solutions for power generators.
“We shall look forward to working together and delivering a positive im pact for public health and emission control by achieving Stage V equiva lent compliance through upgrading gensets in their portfolio.”
The retrofit solution is available and will be rolled out on Speedy genera tors between 60kva to 250kva encom passing a wide range of commercial and domestic applications. In addi
tion, the upgrade can take place at Speedy locations to minimise lead and down times.
“Eminox is the first to market with such technologies, and their knowl edge and expertise is second-tonone,” said Danny Johnson, Group Managing Director, Speedy Services. “Working with them to retrofit our gensets for our hire market, and to support the health of operators and the general public health on construction sites across the UK, is imperative as we strive to support the move towards net-zero targets.”
This pioneering project heralds the start of a partnership that will deliver far reaching benefits across all appli cations of power generation, and the move to wider compliance of Stage V equivalent emissions regulations.
For more information, please visit eminox.com ■
GGR GROUP, who provide CPCS A66, LEEA and RTITB train ing courses across the UK, has today announced the launch of their new online training courses.
GGR Group has been running training programmes since 1995 and successfully trained thousands of people at their state-of-the-art training facilities in Oldham, Had denham and Blantyre.
When it comes to innovative train ing courses for the lifting industry, GGR Group has a history of setting the standard, they were the first UK supplier to provide CPCS A66 compact crane training and were instrumental in establishing the
UK’s first accredited training course (with RTITB) for vacuum lifters. In 2013, the company also launched the UK’s first LEEA accredited training for glazing robots and portable floor cranes.
The initial launch of online train ing and e-learning focuses on floor cranes and hoists, with more equip ment categories such as cladding vacuum lifters and glazing robots to be added in the coming months.
Graeme Riley, CEO of GGR Group commented “The business envi ronment is constantly changing. In today’s market, we are faced with new challenges and have seen interrup tion to business from the effects of COVID and the pandemic; disrup
tion to supply chain and increased costs; and there has been a shift towards doing business in a more sustainable, efficient, and environ mentally friendly way”.
He continued “In response to the new challenges in today’s market, we have chosen to innovate and invest in our training provision, not only to ensure that it remains accessible to our learners, but to ensure that we stay in line with market trends and customer demands”.
Terry Cheese, Group Training Man ager at GGR Group said “We want to add further value to our already ex cellent training offering, so have de veloped a range of e-learning courses in response to increased demand for
training that can be delivered and ac cessed remotely, without leaving the office, home or even on location”.
“We’ve made significant investment in software and content production and been busy designing numerous eLearning programmes, giving focus to ensure that learners (after suc cessful completion) can be efficient and effective with our equipment, for increased productivity and safety”.
He continued “All our programmes have been exclusively designed by us and many are accredited, so you can ensure that all the content is techni cally correct and directly relevant to the equipment that we supply. We also want people to enjoy the experi ence of eLearning, to include ease of use and to have fun whilst learning new things. Our eLearning designs include things like; interactive sce narios, hi-res imagery, quizzes and assessments, narration, videos and instructional films, animation and downloadable documents”.
“Stored securely on our cutting-edge Learning Management System, our ever-growing portfolio of eLearn ing is easy to navigate and divided into manageable sections. Learners don’t even have to complete it all in one go, learners can come and go as they please as their progress is saved automatically as they go along. We’ve even ensured that our eLearning is multi-device compatible, so whether learners have a desktop, tablet, or smartphone, they can easily access our online training”.
To start your eLearning journey with GGR, simply visit www.ggrgroup. com/training/online-training/ and browse the online training portfo lio, select your course and click the BOOK NOW button to register.■
Shell and CRH have signed a mem orandum of understanding (MOU) whereby both businesses will work together to develop and deploy de carbonisation solutions and tech nologies to accelerate their progress towards net zero emissions.
The agreement will see Shell and CRH work together to explore de carbonisation opportunities across transport, operations, and materials. The solutions include, but are not limited to, vehicle electrification and charging infrastructure to reduce transport emissions; deploying low-carbon fuels for off-road equip ment and renewable electricity to power facilities; and developing low-carbon asphalt solutions.
Shell and CRH believe that collabo ration is key to moving at speed and scale to unlock new and innovative decarbonisation solutions. By work ing together, we hope to maximise learning and knowledge sharing to accelerate the deployment of low-car bon solutions and technologies that will help both companies to reach net zero.
Shell and CRH will start work togeth er immediately to begin delivering progress on decarbonisation across Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific. ■
THE new Cat® 789 Mining Truck builds on a legacy of proven per formance to offer efficiency gains, the next generation of cab comfort and cut ting-edge connectivity. Its design offers a weight advantage over the competi tion to haul more material every load
and deliver a cost-per-ton advantage. A proven performer, high uptime reliability reduces overall costs to deliver a better bottom line.
The new 789 moves more material with less fuel, offering up to 9% reduced fuel consumption compared to the Tier 2 design. An advanced power train increases engine life by 12% and delivers better shifting and acceleration. Offering the highest horsepower in its class, this mining truck features 10% more payload and is over 5% faster on grade than competi tive trucks.
With its flexible design, the Cat 3516E engine powering the new 789 is fuel-optimized for lesser regulated countries or can be configured with selec tive catalytic reduction (SCR) for meeting EU Stage V and U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final stand ards. Two power selections offer 1 417 kW (1,900 hp) to match performance of existing
fleet trucks or 1 566 kW (2,100 hp) for faster cycle times.
Delivering long-life reliability, the new engine features design modifications to the camshaft and piston for optimal fuel efficiency, and structural improvements to the cylinder head and crankshaft deliver 12% more durability than the 3516C. The engine’s 23% net torque rise delivers unequalled lugging force during acceleration, on steep grades and in rough underfoot conditions.
Offering smoother transitional shifting for a smoother ride, the 789’s Advanced Power Electronic Control Strategy (APECS) transmission delivers produc tivity and efficiency improvements that can reduce cycle times. Forward momen tum and torque are maintained while shifting with optimum gear selection resulting in faster acceleration. It offers more continuous torque and rimpull to deliver more power to the ground, making it possible to use a higher gear on grade to optimize fuel efficiency.
A choice of multiple body style configu rations allows mines to equip the 789 to
meet specific site needs. The High-Per formance Body maximizes payload by reducing the weight by 2.0 to 5.0 tonnes (2.2 to 5.5 tons) or more. The Mine Spe cific Body excels in mature mines, while the Combination Body combines features of high volume and optional liners to haul both ore and overburden. The orig inal standard, Dual Slope Body, provides excellent load retention, and the X Body features the latest structural designs and offers more volume at a lower weight.
The 789’s larger, more ergonomic next generation cab improves operator effi ciency and productivity. At 17% wider, the cab’s walk-through design with fully adjustable center console offers 34% more operator space, 11% more legroom and 19% more shoulder room. Featuring 40% less Sound Pressure Level (SPL), the quieter cab includes automated tempera ture control and cab filtration for a more comfortable environment.
Two ideally located 254-mm (10-in) screens consolidate all machine data, controls and guidance information, and applications like Cat MineStar™ to reduce the number of required displays. New speed coaching provides operators real-time feedback on truck operation to maximize productivity, while more accu rate measurements on the payload mon itoring system delivers improved load tracking. Its 360-degree surround view camera with object detection to alert op erators to hazards within the immediate vicinity makes it easier to safely operate the 789. Simplifying operation and min imizing cycle times, a new optional Auto Hoist feature automatically raises the body and controls engine speed.
Fully integrated Cat electronics on the 789 includes 100 Mbps, two-wire ether net connectivity for faster data transfer to improve access to information. The fu ture-proof technology platform includes every 789 being factory-equipped with Cat Product Link Elite™ with standard connectivity via cellular 4G/LTE and available cellular/satellite radio for relia ble data transfer.
The ability to access and analyze ac curate, real-time data enables faster
diagnostics and enhances the ability to predict and prevent machine failure, im proving truck uptime availability. A new telematics platform promotes greater data acquisition and faster transmission to locally hosted or cloud-based appli cations such as Cat MineStar Solutions. Available MineStar Fleet, Detect and Health Equipment Insights, along with standard haul road analytics, help to improve operator performance, mainte nance and machine life.
Streamlined serviceability, safety-infused Multiple key contributors to truck down time have been reduced on the 789. Its new modular HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system improves reliability and consolidates components, so the entire system can be removed and replaced quickly. Shortening engine re moval and installation time, the modular radiator enables rebuilds to be completed off the truck to reduce downtime.
The 789’s next generation of enhanced serviceability incorporates extended-in terval filters with ground-level access, grouped service points and a new cen tralized service center option. It features an extended 12,000-hour coolant life and double the hydraulic and transmission filter life to 1,000 hours to reduce service
time. New Remote Flash and Remote Troubleshoot help to further improve machine uptime and performance by instantly providing access to the latest software updates and making it possible to remotely troubleshoot the truck. Superior braking and retarding control for the 789 is delivered by Caterpillar’s patented, oil-cooled, multiple disc brakes to provide immediate, fade-resistant braking and retarding. The next gen cab design integrates the rollover protective structure (ROPS), and the operator is protected by five-sided ROPS/FOPS (falling-object protective structure) coverage. Wide-angle mirrors plus a birds-eye view offered by Cat Vision 360 improves visibility in the 789. Part of the MineStar suite of solutions, the available Driver Safety System alerts the operator if fatigue or distraction is detected.
The 789 next generation mining truck replaces the current 789 Stage V/Tier 4 Final model. The popular Cat 789D will continue to be produced and is available to markets outside of North America and Europe.
More information about the new Cat 789 Mining Truck can be found by contact ing a Cat dealer or visiting: https://www.cat.com. ■
Have you ever stopped to consider the true value of your business assets like vehicles, cars, machinery, plant and tools? Is it what you paid for them?
What you paid, less some depreciation? Or is it what you can do with those assets? As an example, if you are able to complete a job and invoice a Customer, that has a value , or if you retain a contract by completing the job, that also has a value.
With that in mind, what happens if you lose some, or all, of your assets? What can you not do when you don’t have your mini digger, or vehicle and tools? What is the total cost to your business of not doing business?
It would actually be more than the cost of just the replacement equipment, it is also the lost time in claiming on your insurances, loss of earnings and future earnings and loss of customer goodwill. This will total significantly more than the initial 000’s that you invested in the assets.
What can you do about this? It is quite simple really, Track it, don’t risk it!
There are many forms of Equipment Trackers, they all offer different solutions to different problems but all have an important role to play.
For assets with their own power, like mini diggers, plant, vans and even trailers a wired, self-installable solution is perfect. This combines the ease and flexibility of not having to have a professional installation with the robustness of a tamper proof solution – and even notifies you if someone does disconnect the power source (and keeps working with its inbuilt battery!). This Solution will allow you peace of mind that your assets are where you left them, notify you if they move and allow you to see what the assets have been doing.
Where assets do not have their own power, for example tool chests, skips, containers etc. a self-contained battery option is the best solution. Indeed, these can also be used as secondary trackers to assets that are using a wired solution, as they are very easily concealed. These are easy to use and quick to install, however battery trackers can’t provide as many locations ‘pings’ as a wired tracker – but they are typically used on assets that move significantly less and therefore this is an acceptable Solution. They will still offer peace of mind and will still notify you as and when assets are moved from pre-defined areas.
For smaller, much more portable, assets (for example power tools, expensive equipment or other valuable items) a small device is required. These usually will work in conjunction with a main device or App to report their
location and status. They can be used directly on assets or as a secondary device to assets that have a wired solution. These units will show you the last known location of the asset, and will assist with lost or misplaced items – potentially saving 00’s or 000’s depending on the asset that you recover.
Finally, the best option for your business is a combination of the above Solutions: wired, battery, and small. This complete construction tracking Solution can be used across all your assets as appropriate and report to one central portal that can be easily accessed via a desktop, tablet or phone. With a system that shows you all your assets, where they are, how long they have been used for, and even if and when they require a service, your business will be more efficient and generate you more profit – all with little or no effort on your part.
‘Simply Connected’ is the ethos of ABAX, and all of our Solutions will report all your assets in one platform. ABAX uses best-in-class technology to provide the backbone of communication between all your assets, and provide you and your business with the flexibility and scalability you require.
If you are looking to cut costs, reduce risk or increase efficiency and profits within your business - you should find out more at www.abax.com/uk ■
Lifting solutions provider, GGR Group were delighted to take home two trophies from the pres tigious LEEA awards, which took place as part of the LiftEx dinner in Aberdeen on Wednesday 5th October 2022.
The LEEA awards are run by The Lifting Equipment Engineers Association and celebrate the success of LEEA members by recognising a product or service that is truly innovative, providing a unique value proposition and tangible benefits to the lifting equipment industry.
The Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) is a global trade association with compa ny membership representing all those involved in all aspects of lifting operations and equipment in the lifting industry worldwide.
At the awards dinner, hosted by Scottish former rugby union play er and coach, Sir Ian McGeechan, GGR Group were presented with the award for Best ATS Train ing Member and long-standing GGR employee, Rob Ballantyne won the Craig Morelli Award for ATS Best Trainer. As part of the entry process GGR was asked to demonstrate high standards of professionalism, customer service and health and safety, as well as evidence of strong company val ues, a supportive workplace and development of staff.
Voters also recognised Rob’s professional and high-quality end-user training courses to the UK lifting industry through the delivery of A66 CPCS, RTITB and LEEA Accredited training courses to a wide range of cus tomers.
GGR Group, who specialises in the sales and hire of specialist
lifting equipment, has trans formed itself from a small startup business with £5,000 worth of investment in 1995 to a £30 mil lion pound success. The company has just launched its new online eLearning platform, where cus tomers can access online LEEA accredited training courses focus sing on floor cranes and hoists, with more equipment categories such as cladding vacuum lifters and glazing robots to be added in the coming months.
Image: From L to R, GGR Group’s southern training team, Donald MacDonald, Mark Ling, Kirstie Griffiths , Terry Cheese, Michael Williams and award winner Rob Ballantyne.
Find out more today at: https://www.ggrgroup.com/ ■
has struck a major new deal with Dawsongroup, a leading commer cial asset supplier, for six of its revolu tionary pothole fixing machines to help tackle Britain’s nine-year backlog of road repairs.
Dawsongroup | emc is investing in the highly productive JCB Pothole Pro ma chines, which fix potholes permanently, first time, without the need for labour intensive repair methods or additional expensive machinery.
The six machines, bought from dealer TC Harrison JCB, are now being rolled out for rent or contract hire by local authorities and contractors across the country who urgently need to tack le the scourge of potholes as winter approaches. Demand for the machines is expected to be high as the Asphalt Industry Alliance’s (AIA) Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance survey es timates there are £12.64 billion worth of outstanding road repairs in England and Wales – equating to a nine-year backlog.
Dawsongroup | emc Managing Director Glen Carruthers said: “This is really exciting for us. The Pothole Pro is an innovative machine which is both time and cost-effective. Our investment gives local authorities and contractors access to the best machines for the job without the need for major financial outlay. Not only is this a highly innovative addition
to our product range, but it also means that we are helping to solve a problem that provokes many road users’ frustra tions. It is also a significant milestone for Dawsongroup as the company further expands its extensive product range and sector diversification.”
JCB Pothole Pro Sales Manager Ben Rawding said: “Dawsongroup’s order for six JCB Pothole Pro machines will have a big impact on the nine-year road repair backlog in the UK. It is our biggest order to date for this revolutionary machine and means thousands of miles more road will be repaired quickly and cost effectively as we go into winter. JCB’s solution is simple and cost effective and fixes potholes permanently, first time and we are excited that such a major hir er has recognised the machine’s benefits.
“City councils, large rural county councils and Tier 1 highways con tractors across the UK have invested in the Pothole Pro, and all are seeing significantly more defects being fixed, economically, permanently and safely. In fact, Stoke-on-Trent City Council – the first authority to invest in the Pothole Pro – has repaired seven years’ worth of defects in just 12 months.”
Tests with contractors and local author ities show the JCB Pothole Pro can com plete a pothole repair four times quicker than standard methods in less than eight minutes – equivalent to 700 potholes per
month. With a 40km/h travel speed, the machine can also rapidly relocate be tween sites without additional transport costs.
The Pothole Pro can prepare up to 250m2 of roadway in a single shift, or 5,000m3 per month and allows the contractor or local authority to cut the defect, crop the edges and clean the hole with one machine – mechanis ing jobs traditionally done by pothole gangs and delivering up to a 50% cut in daily costs. Safety is also improved as the gang does not have to complete the hand held cutting and breaking, elim inating the risk of hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS).
The JCB Pothole Pro is equipped with a modified Simex planer, with inte grated dust suppression, mounted on the machine’s rear skid steer hitch. The planer is 600mm wide, with up to 1.3m of side-shift adjustment. This allows the operator to plane a full carriageway from the kerb, without repositioning the machine. Hydraulic tilt and depth control provide a consistent depth for larger patches.
The machine’s TAB two-piece boom is fitted with the JCB ‘Multi-tool’, mounted on an X12 Steelwrist tilt-rotator. The ‘Multi-tool’ comprises of two attach ments, a dedicated hydraulic cropper and a sweeper/bucket. The 600mm crop ping tool eliminates the need for floor saws or hydraulic breakers, providing a squared off, clean cut to the repair area. The operator then rotates the boom head to bring a 1.2m wide sweeper/bucket into use, to clean up the pothole area, eliminating the requirement for a sepa rate sweeper truck. Material lifted by the sweeper/bucket can be loaded directly into a support truck for rapid removal from site.
Dawsongroup | emc, previously known as Dawsongroup | sweepers, is part of a global group of companies committed to providing an extensive product range, and first-class customer service across the supply chain. Their Smarter Asset Strategy is a solution that allows busi nesses to minimise risk whilst improving cash flow, efficiency and agility.
For PotholePro rental details visit dawsongroupemc.co.uk. For more information about the revolutionary PotholePro visit jcb.com. ■
the CESAR scheme has been protecting construction plant equipment from theft and is the UK’s official construction and ag ricultural equipment security and registration scheme of the CEA (Construction Equipment Association), promoted by the AEA (Agricultural Engineers Associ ation) and powered by Datatag Id Ltd. Established in 2007, it is the only scheme of its kind which incorporates a database of owner ship, allowing stolen machinery to be identified and returned to its rightful owner.
May 2006 saw a major initiative in the campaign to stamp out crime in the construction industry when more than 20 companies were invited to tender to the Plant Theft Action Group to imple ment a unique security and registration
scheme – a first for the sector. Datatag – the European market leader in security identity systems within the Motorcycle, ATV, Scooter, Trailers, Boats, IT, Cycle, Jet Ski and Construction and Plant sec tors – underwent a rigorous tendering and selection process before a final sub mission to the Construction Equipment Association and was announced as the winning company in November 2006.
CESAR was first launched at the Com bined Industries Theft Solutions (CITS) conference held at JCB’s Rocester HQ in 2007, with the agricultural sector com ing on board on 2009. Since its launch CESAR has been adopted by a ‘who’s who’ of leading equipment manufactur ers including Caterpillar, Hitachi, John Deere, New Holland, Massey Ferguson, Volvo, Komatsu, Hyundai, Takeuchi, JCB, SANY, Manitou and Merlo. In fact the scheme has been adopted by 93% of the leading OEMs in the UK. (A full list of supporters can be found here Who Is Involved (cesarscheme.org))
To date, 550 thousand items of equip
ment have been marked with the unique multi-layered technology to give each machine a unique identity. The univer sally recognised triangular CESAR reg istration plate has become the industry standard identification mark. CESAR marking of construction and agri cultural machinery has contributed significantly to a decline in thefts since the scheme was first launched.
Recovery rates of CESAR registered equipment are significantly higher than non-registered machines and offi cial statistics confirm that a machine protected and registered by the CESAR Scheme is approximately four times less likely to be stolen than a non-registered machine and approximately six times more likely to be recovered.
The scheme is also recognised by Police, Law Enforcement, Border and Port Authorities as a result of the accurate machinery data recorded by Datatag and the CESAR Scheme.
Kevin Howells, Managing Director, Datatag, said “The last 15 years has been one of the most difficult and challengingperiods ever recorded, particularly the last five years. Dur ing this time I have constantly been impressed and grateful for the support of the CEA, the AEA and the fantastic dedicated team at Datatag, who have helped make the Official CE SAR Scheme a World leading Security initiative. Now, with the development of Emissions Compliance Verification, it’s helped to gain the support of virtu ally all of the major OEMs protecting and registering equipment for their valued customers, which now surpasses half a million machines. So thank you to all of the participating customer focussed manufacturers and here’s to the next 15 years.”
Ruth Bailey, Director General/CEO, AEA (Agricultural Engineers Asso ciation) said “Theft of agricultural
machinery is in nobody’s interest, except for the criminals, who are often part of organised criminal networks. As well as the financial costs involved, it is also incredibly disruptive to farmers and other users of machinery, who rely on it to look after livestock and grow crops. The AEA supports any initiative which reduces theft. CESAR has proved itself over the last 15 years to be a very effective deterrent and we see it going from strength to strength as it reaches this milestone.”
Suneeta Johal, Chief Executive, CEA (Construction Equipment Association) commented on CESAR reaching its 15year anniversary, “Unfortunately we will never entirely stamp out plant theft, it’s a sad fact of life, particularly in the current economic climate. The CESAR scheme is amongst the only proven plant theft deterrent and has excellent recovery rates. Reaching this 15-year milestone and 550 thousand registrations is testament to its success. We look forward to the next milestone of 1 million machines displaying the familiar CESAR triangle.”
October 2013 saw the launch of the new CESAR and Datatag provenance check. Launched in conjunction with HPI, the pioneer and leader in vehicle history checks, this on-line service provides a level of assurance whenever a used construction or agricultural machine is bought or sold.
In 2013 Datatag launched Micro CESAR
– a theft system for small tools and equipment. Insurers, manufacturers and industry bodies had raised the issue of small tool theft, and Micro CESAR was the response from Datatag and the CEA.
There are new developments in the CESAR suite of products, which are currently on trial with a leading con tractor.
Watch this space for the ‘official launch’ which is coming soon. CESAR Scheme technology explained…
CESAR uses State of the Art Datatag ID technology, with both visible and covert markings, making it a real theft deterrent. These include the now-iconic and uniquely numbered tamper-evident triangular ID plates, hidden RFID transponders, microscopic Datadots, and a unique forensic DNA solution. Once fitted these technologies are almost impossible to remove successfully and when recorded on Datatag’s secure da tabase, are accessible to the police 24/7
enabling them to identify any machine at the roadside night or day. The Datatag team has trained 1000’s of police officers, from across the 43 UK Constabularies on CESAR.
There are no annual fees for the scheme, just a one-off investment in marking and registering your equipment for life. In addition, Datatag has a manned 24hour international call centre specifically for CESAR and the scheme is also part of Interpol’s training programme – so its reach is worldwide.
The evolution of CESAR… In 2019, the CEA and Datatag ID announced the launch of the biggest evolution of the CESAR scheme to date; the addition of Emissions Compliance Verification (ECV). ECV takes the ma chine’s engine emission standard from the engine’s EU Type Approval number and displays it on a simple to read colour coded plate. ECV provides a quick and easy reference point where machines are working on sites where they are required to comply with Non-Road Mobile Ma chinery (NRMM) emission regulations.
The CESAR ECV system combines the technology behind the security marking scheme with an additional colour coded plate showing the engine emission stage from stage two through to stage five and now includes electric and, coming soon, hydrogen. The information about the machine is then collated on a com prehensive, secure database accessible through the ECV clearing portal. This information enables plant owners and operators, contractors and site manag ers to comply with any local policy or contractual obligation in place regarding machinery emissions levels.
JCB and Hitachi were among the first manufacturers to fit the CESAR ECV scheme as standard in early 2020 – the
scheme has now been adopted by over 90% of OEMs and leading machine dealers in the construc tion sector.
HS2 has also adopted the CESAR ECV scheme across their sites as part of their air quality strategy, CESAR have busy fitting ECV systems to both new and existing equipment across the industry.
Leading contractor, Mace has mandated CESAR ECV across its projects. Andrew Kinsey, Mace Sustain ability and Operations Director said, “ Identifying compliance with air quality standards for Non Road Mobile Machin ery (NRMM) on site is now much easier and safer with CESAR Scheme Emissions Compliance Verification (ECV) which is why Mace require contractors and suppliers to use it.”
Sunbelt Rentals UK were the first plant hire company in the UK to adopt an ECV upgrade programme across their fleet. Sunbelt have placed 2021/2022 orders for stage V equipment spanning excavators, dumpers, telehandlers, compressors and rollers to the value of £55m.
Tom Welland, Sunbelt Rentals Business Development Director HS2, said “As part
of the HS2 supply chain Sunbelt Rentals recognise the need to report, easily, our Plant NRMM data to help achieve these targets. There is no universal recognition scheme for NRMMs, so currently it is a manual process to identify and ensure the correct policy is enforced. With a clear need for a simple system which could cut down in confusion, wrong deliveries, wasted time and money, as well as the risk of non-compliant plant being used, the ECV scheme created by Datatag ID in partnership with the CEA, seemed the logical scheme to get behind and support.”
Find out more at: https://www.cesarscheme.org/ ■
World Cup Qatar 2022 marks the first time the game is held in the Middle East and the second time in Asia.
Eight top-notch stadiums were renovated for the game this year, with a total investment surpassing 5 billion USD. All construction machinery involved had to stand the test of sandstorms and extreme local temper atures of up to 50° Celsius in the summer and still 35°C in cooler seasons. Eighty units of SANY machinery, including 15 mobile cranes, 5 220-t and 600-t all-terrain cranes, 30 medium and large excavators, 5 pump trucks, 20 truck mixers, 3 drilling rigs and 2 reach stackers, faced the challenge and did a job well done.
SANY machines achieved 100% availability throughout a tight schedule. Cranes with superb precision performed expertly in hoisting a large number of steel and glass structures, while pump trucks, backed by truck mixers, worked 50 hours continuously with no delays. A SANY excavator, equipped with crusher and cutter attachments, man aged to handle the local high-strength rock.
The contractor equipment manager was satisfied with the quality of SANY’s SY215C and SY335C excavators: “These two mod els are reliable at 50 degrees c with high crushing efficiency, low fuel consumption and a near-zero fault rate. On-site support throughout the project and robust after-sales service will also contribute to our decision to use SANY excavators in our future projects in Saudi.”
Trimble introduced today the latest addition to its portfolio of innovative robotic total stations—the Trimble® Ri. The instrument’s flexibility and upgradeability makes high-end total station technology more accessible and sets a new scalability standard for use across the construction industry.
Offered in multiple configurations to meet a diverse set of workflows, the Trimble Ri is ideal for MEP, concrete, steel and general contractors. The base units can be scaled remotely via annual subscription licensing pack ages and software customization.
The Trimble Ri is built on the compa ny’s decades of field-proven expe rience developing and producing robotic total stations. Easy to operate with extended layout capabilities, the total station provides longer laser range, focusable EDM, eye-safe laser pointer and improved target track ing. Leveraging Trimble FieldLink software on a tablet or FieldLink MR on a Trimble XR10 for Mixed Reality, users can control and automate their workflow with improved accuracy and visibility. With Trimble VISION™
technology, integrated digital cameras, the instrument can be controlled from anywhere on the jobsite and allows for quick and accurate target detection and lock. In addition, the self-calibration feature performs automatic cali brations as required and reduces the need to send the total station in for service.
“The new Trimble Ri sets a new standard for optical positioning solutions for the construction field worker. To date, no other supplier has introduced this type of robotic total station flexibility in the mar ket. It is an exciting way for our customers to purchase and utilize the solution, which can be more aligned with their project-based business needs,” said Martin Holmgren, general manager, Trim ble Building Construction.
The Trimble Ri Total Station is available now worldwide through Trimble’s Building Construction distribution channels.
For more information, visit: fieldtech.trimble.com/Ri.■
What do airline pilots, Formula 1 champions and forestry harvester drivers have in common? Answer: They can all use a simulator to hone their driving skills, thanks in the case of forestry workers to a recent investment by Komatsu forest equipment distributor, McHale Plant Sales.
In the case of McHale, their pur chase of a Komatsu Driver Training Simulator means driver trainees can experience ‘real life’ forestry condi tions without leaving the comfort of the company’s Rathcoole headquar ters where the unit is located.
Described as ‘the essence of hightech’, the new unit replicates the cock
pit of a working harvester or forward er. On-board equipment includes a VR (Virtual Reality) headset, a driver-information screen, hand con trols which the operator works from a full-size driver’s seat and, up-ahead, a large, wrap-around panoramic screen on to which a full colour, interactive graphic of the ‘virtual forest’ on which the simulator driver will work is projected. Asked about their deci sion to pur chase the
unit, their chairman Michael McHale said: “aware of how valuable operators skilled in the complexities required to operate timber harvesters and forward ers are, our investment in the Driver Training Simulator will be a great sup port for our many forestry contractors and customers.”
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Zonr, the smart safety system which creates virtual exclusion zones to protect worker safety in heavy industry, will be adopted by engineering contractor QTS Group across all its UK sites following a successful trial.
QTS collaborated with Zonr’s manufac turer Pathfindr – the asset tracking and Industrial IoT tech specialist – over its initial development and will now imple ment the system itself to improve health and safety across its rail engineering, in frastructure and electrification operations throughout the UK.
Zonr alerts workers through a prox imity alarm when a vehicle or other hazard comes close, or if they step into a high-risk area – guiding them through a workplace to avoid potential incidents.
It gives site operators real-time data over incursions, enabling interventions to be made in the moment, as well as providing holistic data to enable overall health and safety processes to be improved.
QTS has trialed the system at a number of varied sites across the country, and will
now implement the system more widely.
Alan McLeish, Managing Director of QTS Group, said: “Initial trials have gone extremely well, and we’ve been able to clearly demonstrate the simplicity and functionality of the system.
“Work sites are fast-moving, dynamic environments, and through using this system to automatically alert workers to dangers, we’re highly confident we can further improve safety across our sites.”
Rob Grahamslaw, CEO of Pathfindr, said: “The first real-world test for Zonr is a major milestone and we’re very pleased that QTS Group has committed to using it to improve health and safety across its sites.”
He added: “No technology will ever guarantee safety, but Zonr has been designed with the user in mind, enabling better decision making and alerting workers to dangers as soon as they arise. We look forward to working with more organisations to help improve their worker safety.”
Zonr is an evolution of Pathfindr’s Safe Distancing Assistant, a wearable device de veloped in 2020 to support social distancing, and was launched amid the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak. ■
Suction Excavator Solutions (SES) have been under the leadership of Charlie and Lloyd Gardener since the company was launched in 2013. In the past nine years SES has experienced substantial growth, being an early adopter of suction excavator technology and now has a fleet of 12.
In September 2020 they announced a new Employee Ownership structure, handing over shares to the workforce and giving them direct input in strategic business decisions. A mere two years later, following the success of the EOT, Charlie and Lloyd Gardener are stepping down from their roles as directors and handing the SES reigns over to Bernie Stack, former Director of Clancy.
Lloyd Gardener commented “SES has been a big part of our lives for nearly a decade and both Charlie and myself are very proud of all that we have achieved. We would like to thank the team that have made all of that possible. We know that we are leaving SES in the very safe and experienced hands of Bernie, and wish them the greatest success for the future.”
Bernie Stack, Director of SES commented “I am very pleased to be taking over the reins from Lloyd and Charlie following their very suc cessful tenure at SES and I am looking forward to taking them into the next chapter of their journey. I have some exciting plans for the future which I will be able to share in due course.”
Charlie Gardener commented “We are both confident and content with our decision to step away from SES. Bernie has a lot of experience and can lead the team forward. It also allows us to focus on our core business and the developing opportunities it is presenting. I would also like to thank the SES team for their part in the success and for their input in the EOT over the past two years”.
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In an incredible display of trust in Hitachi construction machinery, civil engineering contractor M.V. Kelly has purchased its 2,000th excavator from Hitachi Construction Machinery UK (HCMUK).
The latest and greatest machinery
Specialising in housebuilding and groundworks, M.V. Kelly also engages in larger civil engineering excavations and more precise road and sewer projects. Thanks to the versatility of the ZX300-7 medium excavator and the precision provided by Leica GPS machine control, operators at the Soli hull-based company are well equipped to tackle the wide range of work that comes their way.
With a 27-year history in construction and groundworks, M.V. Kelly com bines the personal approach of a family business with the size needed to fulfil some of the largest projects in the UK. These values match perfectly with those of HCMUK, which has led to such a successful collaboration over the years.
“We are incredibly proud to have reached this milestone and it is testa ment to the longstanding and ongoing relationship between our companies,” says John Kelly, co-founder of M.V. Kelly alongside his father, Martin.
The Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) conference is just around the corner! Find out what you can expect from this year’s action packed line-up.
There are just a few weeks to go until the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) Conference which takes place at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre in Fillongley near Coventry on Thursday 20th October 2022.
An essential entry in the calendar for those working in the planthire sector, delegate tickets can still be booked online at https:// www.cpa.uk.net/events/cpa-con ference-2022 at a cost of £90 per ticket (£75 plus VAT) including lunch.
The theme of the CPA Conference 2022 is ‘ESG - Driving Change: How Environmental, Social & Governance Benefits Construction Plant Businesses’ and the event is being held in association with headline sponsor Point of Rental Software.
The CPA is the leading trade asso ciation for the plant-hire sector in
the UK, with over 1,800 members who supply 85% of hired plant equipment to the construction industry.
CPA Policy Manager Chris Cassley said: “This one-day event is a high light in the CPA’s calendar and it is designed to allow delegates to come away with better insight about ESG and what it means for their businesses.
To compete and grow in the future, organisations must be aligned with the ESG agenda in order to gain contracts and meet obligations to wider society.”
Merryn Myatt will be convenor for the event. Merryn hosted the last CPA Conference in 2021 and was a tremendous suc cess. Merryn is a former television
presenter, newsreader and jour nalist who previously worked with the BBC, ITV and Channel 4, and was senior presenter on The Money Channel.
As well as attending the Confer ence, delegates will also have the opportunity to visit a number of exhibition stands. Confirmed exhibitors include headline sponsor Point of Rental Software, as well as Genquip Groundhog, L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage, Flannery Plant Hire, MHM Plant, Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), Lifos, Capja, Plantforce Rentals, WowNow Hire, JCB, Plant Planet, inspHire, NOCN Group, Prolectric, Nexus Vehicle Rental, European Rental Association (ERA), MachineMax, Thomas Plant Hire and FuelActive. ■
Panel discussions on the day will include ‘ESG in Context and What it Means’ and ‘ESG in Action - Demonstrating ESG in the Construction and Plant-hire Sector’. Confirmed speakers include:
• David Murray, Executive Director, Sustainability First
• Douglas McLuckie, Managing Director of ESG, Ashtead Group plc
• Merrill Lynch, Director, L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage
• Dani Saveker, CEO, GLAS
• Tom Hadley, Independent Consultant, Hadley’s Com ment
• Lara Young, Climate Change Director, Costain
• Michel Petitjean, Secretary General, European Rental Association (ERA)
• Rachel Preen, Commercial Director, Prolectric
• Chris Cassley, Policy Manager, Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA)
• Laura Capper, Head of Manufacturing & Construction, NatWest
Be impressed by the Magni passion and know-how. The ele gant lines of the iconic RTH range give life to machines with strength and style. These attractive machines incorporate cutting-edge technology, and incredible performance, to el evate the concept of the rotating telehandler to new heights.
With the advance in technology on modern fixed chassis and rotational telescop ic handlers’ owners, operators and other parties can sometimes overlook the safety implications of the incorrect pairing of machine and attachment – this is an area at Magni Telescopic Handlers that is never compromised or ignored!
Recently we have been asked about fitting attachments ho mologated on our larger machine onto smaller machines within the range, or attachments that aren’t homologated at all – the answer that we have given in both cases has been NO – even at the expense of a machine sale!
People have been shocked and
asked why? The reason for this is simple.....safety!
All attachments approved for use on our machines, whether pro duced by Magni or a third-party supplier are tested, approved and homologated by Magni. They will have a dedicated load chart within the machines safety system and this will be displayed on the load moment indicator screen in real-time for the current machine configuration.
The load charts and associated RFID chip to activate the load chart within the safety system are the result of thorough and exhaustive process from our team
of R&D engineers – this not only includes looking at whether the machine can lift the load, but also the dynamic loading and stresses placed on the machine and only after this process has been fully completed, approved and tested to the relevant regulatory standards will the load charts be created and made available within the machines software – this means that even older machines in the field can be updated to that latest load charts where this process has been followed.
Magni will always look at any customer request for a specialist attachment, in fact we pride our selves on being one of the most
versatile manufacturers and our portfolio of clients and their special attachments highlights this. Where there is a identified need our engineer ing team in the R&D department will investigate and always endeavour, whenever pos sible to give the customer the ideal solution for their handling needs, but where this cannot be achieved we will be open and honest about this – but we will definitely not sanction non-homologated at tachments!
A good example of this is Forestry, says Alex White from Magni UK.
“When we were asked to look at Importing machines that Magni were producing for other markets it did make me nervous. I made the decision to watch what was happening around the world and make sure that the combination had good performance but more importantly all the safety measures currently possible.
The reason that we have been able to enter this market successfully is that for several years Magni has partnered with different tree shear and grapple suppliers and have carried out rigorous testing of combinations to arrive at what we believe is the best package. We now have machines that can be fitted with either Wessttech or GMT grapple saws that are fully homologated. This means they come with operators’ manu
als for the combination, EC test certificates and most importantly load charts on the machines that show the correct deration of the attachment.
However, Magni UK decided to take this and expand upon it. Thorough various meetings with legislative and safety organisations such as BITA, FEM and FISA we
have modified machines further to go beyond what is expected.
making further modifications to reflect market feedback and knowledge gained from the industry. We are proud to say that
Magni is not just a standard machine with a grapple saw. It is a machine that has a different specification boom, different hydraulic controls, additional safety guarding, special lighting, and camera systems and many more options.
We have worked closely with UK customers and even now are
Magni is the only Roto tele handler on sale in the UK that meets all the relevant re quirements, and therefore we are quickly gaining traction in this market and becoming the brand people are talking about.
If an accident were ever to happen, what is the legal po sition? Under the current CE regulations, it is the responsi
bility of the attachment manu facturer to ensure the combina tion of machine and attachment are correct and safely paired. Buying a machine/attachment combination that is not ho mologated will put you at risk. If in doubt the customer only needs to contact the manufac turer of the telehandler and ask whether the attachment in doubt has been officially ho mologated.
Food for thought when you are looking at your next machine/ attachment.
Find out more today at: https://www.magnith.com/ ■
“we are proud to say that magni is the only roto telehandler on sale in the uk that meets all the relevant requiements.”
THESinoboom MEWP range is designed to offer a comprehensive set of reliable solutions for various work-at-height tasks, with the mod els available to the UK and across Europe ranging from compact scissor lift models through to heavy-duty 20-metre telescopic boom lifts. Notably, all Sinoboom equipment available through its European operations is electric-powered, with a view to meeting the ever-increasing demand for eco-friendly options in the rental and contracting sector.
At the higher-reach end of the product line lie products such as the TB20EJ Plus telescopic boom lift, which has a maximum 22m
working height and generous 454kg loading capacity in restricted mode, or 300kg unrestricted. Designed to provide reliable performance on uneven terrain, it features patented anti-skid technology and active oscil lation, and 45% gradeability, provid ing operators with a secure and stable working experience.
In common with other Sinoboom telescopic and articulating boom lifts, it features an intelligent, intui tive 7-inch display which allows easy real-time viewing of the machine’s status, parameters and settings along with fault diagnosis, allowing for quicker troubleshooting and every day maintenance checks.
Joining TB20EJ in the heavyweight category are options such as the 5389RE rough-terrain scissor lift, with 680kg loading capacity. Coupled with the two-way extendable plat form which allows for more people, materials and tools to be carried, working efficiency is optimised, and the operators’ experience is made smoother with an oscillating axle and one-click levelling. The machine also offers 40% gradeability and 18.2m working height.
Articulating boom lifts such as the AB18EJ are making both outdoor and indoor operations in emis sions-critical workspaces much more feasible. Powered by mainte nance-free batteries, they’re designed for easy, comfortable and flexible operation, featuring 3 joysticks for precise, proportional control. AB18EJ
offers a 20.2m working height, while other models in the electric artic ulating range offer 16m and 17.7m working heights.
A wide variety of Sinoboom compact and slab scissor lifts cater to a broad range of requirements and working applications, and are designed for easy transportability with handy features such as both side and rear forklift pockets, and bumper rails which help to protect decals and bodywork against scratches. In ad dition, Sinoboom scissor lifts feature innovations such as flexibly mounted control boxes, which can be easi ly positioned to suit both left- and right-handed operators, and have an incorporated hand shield, protecting both the operator and the control box against damage from falling objects. The compact and range features
models with working heights from 5.8m to 15.8m.
A popular compact model is the 1932SE, which has a narrow width of only 0.8m, meaning easy access along narrow corridors and travel in eleva tors, while its 7.8m working height makes it ideal for indoor tasks such as electrical installations.
Larger slab scissor models feature a wider scissor stack, which helps enhance stability. This wider stance doesn’t impact on flexibility, howev er; Sinoboom scissor lifts all feature a small turning radius, to make op erations in tight and narrow spaces as easy as possible, and controls are user-friendly.
The whole Sinoboom range is built to high quality standards, with use of techniques such as electrophoretic primer treatment which significantly protects against corrosion, helping to prolong each machine’s working life. World-class components are used throughout, and there is high universality of parts and components across the Sinoboom range, helping to reduce the overall cost of owner ship. All machines are designed to be as low-maintenance as possible,
with easily-accessible compartments, fault diagnosis systems, and logical pipework layouts for quick trouble shooting.
Comprehensive after-sales service support is in place across the UK and Europe, allowing customers peace of mind with a highly responsive customer service structure.
Founded in 2008, Sinoboom is a global manufacturer of mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) solutions and pro gressed into the Top 10 in Access Inter national’s annual Access M20 in 2021.
To learn more about Sinoboom prod ucts and services, visit www.sinoboom. com, and visit the European subsidiary website at sinoboom.eu.
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Kate Hutchison explores the top machinery highlights from this years RWM & LetsRecycle Live, as the two shows co-locate for the first time at this year’s event.
return of RWM & LetsRecycle Live, the UK’s leading event for waste, resource and sustainability professionals, saw over 12,000 visitors and
over 500 exhibitors return to the NEC in Birmingham for an action-packed two days of waste management solutions, live action demonstrations and in-person networking. It took place over from 14th-15th September 2022 with a total of four halls and 10,000 m2 of outdoor space. The bustling outside area saw a variety of heavy machineries, including the Doyle Machinery VZ 950 Titan Shredder.
BOMAG showcased their BC 973 RB-5 landfill compactor, designed for use on landfill sites of all sizes. Also on site was the DOOSAN
OVER 12,000 VISITORS AND OVER 500 EXHIBITORS RETURNED TO THE NEC FOR AN ACTION PACKED TWO DAYS
DX300 LC Hydraulic Excavator and DX 160W-7 Wheeled Excavator. JCB also had an impressive line-up of machinery on display at their stand. This included their JCB Waste Master, designed to innovatively tackle issues facing the waste and recycling sector, as well as wheeled loading shovels, telescopic handlers and electric forklift trucks also joining the line-up.
The Wastemaster range takes pride
in being one of the most powerful, efficient, safest and comfortable machines the company has ever built. The vast variety of machinery was displayed outside in the bright sunshine of RWM & LetsRecycle Live and provided exhibitors with an excellent opportunity to see these machines up close in person.
The Live Demonstration Area, sponsored by Zappshelter, ensured there was plenty to see throughout the day, with Peter Haddock leading the demonstrations in the live demo area which showcased a range of machinery.
Demonstration brought a collection of machinery from different manufacturers together for three displays throughout the day for the duration of the show. Visitors saw a variety of machinery such as shredders, balers, material handlers, wheeled loaders, and dust suppression equipment. Kicking off the demonstrations was the Terex Ecotec TWH 228, supplied by Warwick Ward Machinery, designed for more power, and reach in compact situations. The machine demonstrated its 129kW engine power, 30.6t max. service weight and 13.2m max reach. CASE
Construction were also found in the live demo area demonstrating
their 621GXT wheel loader.
Also amongst the impressive machineries in the live demo area was the Willibald Shark V high speed shredder from Doyle Machinery. This was actually the first time the new machine has been shown off in the UK! The high-speed shredder also comes with a remote control to further enhance ease of use for the operator. The Shark V also boasts a built-in dust suppression, new Stage V engine. The accompanying remote is also capable of operating the wheel movers to position the machine, instead of having to reposition the machine via
another machine. Doosan also had two machines in the live area, the DL 420-7 Stage V wheel loader and DX160W-7 Wheeled Excavators. Also partaking in the live demonstration was the Solmec EXP DP5025, available from 8 to 12 metres reach, specifically developed for material handling and demonstrated such in the live area of RWM & Letsrecycle Live. Fireward showcased the effectiveness of their fire suppression system in an impressive live display that established the importance of having fire suppression on heavy
there were 42 new exhibitors at the show this yearTHE DL420-7 STAGE V WHEEL LOADER & DX160W-7 WHEELED EXCAVATOR
plant machinery. Their dual agent system, fitted into a display that
resembles a vehicle engine bay, similar to one included in many heavy machineries, gave viewers a chance to view a realistic live scenario. This system also won the Excellence in Innovation Award 2022, presented to Fireward at the RWM Exhibition.
Following the live machinery was a range of demonstrations from dust suppression, including Dustquip’s UK, in-house built, JetMister. The JetMister JM35 was operated by a remote control in which the highpressure mist can be directed and adjusted easily. Air spectrum seized the opportunity to celebrate the ecotech Rotary Atomiser (RA), which takes a giant step towards zero emissions, as it is designed to reduce carbon emissions during the dust suppression process.
The impressive and advanced innovative machinery on display at the RWM exhibition made for a great return for both RWM and LetsRecycle Live and the show will return in 2023 from 13th-14th September.
Find out more about next years event at: https://www. rwmexhibition.com/ ■
there were 42 new exhibitors at the show this year
As Flannery celebrate their 50 year anniversary, the company reflect on how far they’ve come and their investment in creating a more sustainable future.
has changed in the last fifty years, especially in the construction industry and the sector’s wider commit ment to reducing our carbon footprint and creating a sustainable working envi ronment to secure a better future for the next generations.
Sustainability is a recurring theme and company value across many of the businesses working in our industry today – and there are so many elements to this that all need attention in order for us to successfully impact the amount of waste caused by construction within the UK. Flannery Plant Hire are working hard across all of these areas, actively track ing our carbon imprint, investing in the latest machines and managing existing machinery to reduce the waste of man ufacturing new ones to ensure that we’re doing all we can to help create a safe and healthy working environment on our clients’ sites.
It’s no secret that Flannery Plant Hire turned fifty this year, and we’ve come a long way since starting with one ma chine (a JCB 3C Excavator) and Patrick Flannery Senior in 1972. We now partner with world-leading manufacturers, including Cat, Komatsu, JCB, Volvo, Bomag and Wacker Neuson, and have built up the business from our first yard in Feltham to now having depots in Ab erdeen, Northumberland, Dublin, Man chester, Birmingham, Bicester, Newport, Leighton Buzzard and a purpose-built head office next to Wembley Stadium.
In 2022, we now have nearly 5,000 machines available to hire and a network of more than 1,450 operators support ing our clients on projects nationwide. However, at our core, we’re still a family business with strong values and are ded icated to our people, safety, innovation and sustainability, and creating value.
People stand at the centre of our business – and this goes further than providing excellence in service, plant standards and safety. We listen to our clients’ specific needs and stay on top of the latest legisla tion, but this is the minimum we believe should be done. We also maintain a
relentless level of investment in our fleet, ensuring that we’re keeping up with the latest innovations and NRMM standards.
As well as keeping our fleet up to date, we’re also working to continuously innovate and developing technology with our partners to create Digital Machine Solutions that find ways to turn basic data into a meaningful analysis, allowing customers to make decisions when hiring for their site that can benefit their project efficiency and the environment around the site.
Having the latest machinery and inno vative equipment to positively impact
our carbon footprint is vital, but we strongly believe that this doesn’t make any difference if those using the ma chines don’t have the correct skills sets and knowledge to use these important features.
It’s because of this that we work closely with the Operator Skills Hub, a purpose-built indoor and outdoor training area based in Birmingham. Since its estab lishment last year, machine training has been carried out in the facility designed by a dedicated training team in a safe but realistic format. The simulator zone with four Tenstar consoles provides an alternative for machine training in a low-pressure environment, eliminating any safety risks in a sustainable manner,
and the classrooms are used for essential theory based training.
It’s safe to say that the Operator Skills Hub has firmly established itself as the UK’s leading provider of plant and con struction related training. With major projects around the UK increasingly starting to realise their digital ambi tions, it’s become more crucial than ever to equip operators with the tools and knowledge they need to support digital ly-enabled construction sites. However, Flannery and the Skills Hub weren’t
happy with only offering this training solution at our Birmingham site. We believe that, for this training to make as much of a difference as possible, it needs to be accessible for potential operators across the country.
“at our core, we’re still a family business with strong values and are dedicated to our people, safety, innovation and sustainability, and creating value”
With that in mind, we’re proud to have launched our transportable training fleet that allows the Operator Skills Hub to take what they know and spread it across the country.
the UK is something that it’s exciting to be a part of. Whether it’s giving people the knowledge of how much something as simple as reducing machine idle time can make a difference, or going more in-depth to teach them how to use machine data to an alyse how efficiently they’re using each
Our HGV fleet consists of two trailers, fully equipped with Tenstar simulators. The second of these trailers was launched in partnership with EKFB, who the Skills Hub have also partnered with to open a secondary training site at the A422 Com pound in Northamptonshire.
These portable training options also include two Luton vans, fitted with a simulator and learning area that we’re able to take to events and sites across the country. This more compact offering means that we’re able to attend school and career days, training the next gen eration in how to sustainably use plant and teaching them about the benefits of entering the construction industry.
This is just the beginning of the latest developments in training we have to offer in our partnership with the Operator Skills Hub. After our recent win in Train ing Excellence at the Construction News Awards, we’re going to keep striving to provide the best training for apprentices, qualified operators and managers in a safe environment – and we’re happy to say that the virtual learning environment also puts the fun in our learning experi ences, too!
Aaron Davis, Head of Skills and Train ing at Flannery Plant Hire, commented: “It’s clear that there are things we can do better as an industry to help with our carbon output and to be more sustaina ble. Delivering ‘Eco-Operator’ training to all of the operators on our books, but also extending this offering to non-Flannery operators across sites in
machine for the task at hand, these courses are actively making a difference. We’ve seen carbon emissions and fuel usage being reduced across our cli ents’ sites when this training has been delivered, and I’m optimistic that this momentum will continue as we’re able to access more areas to train operators across the country”.
Our apprenticeship scheme has been successfully running since the Operator Skills Hub launched in 2021, but Flan nery are proud to have gained govern ment funding and to now be offering the Skills Bootcamp in Plant Operations as an option for entering a career in con struction plant.
This offering is aimed at new entrants to the sector and existing machine opera tors, and is now actively recruiting new learners. Whether an individual learner keen to enter the construction sector, or a current operator looking to enhance their skills, the Skills Bootcamp provides valuable knowledge and know-how with the promise of a guaranteed offer of a job interview upon completion of the training program.
The Skills Bootcamp is free to join and offers a flexible training schedule. New entrants receive a CPCS card on achieve ment after receiving enhanced ‘site ready’ training that is designed to build up sec tor-specific valuable skills based on local employed remand. The course comes with full wraparound support through out, and new entrants are also offered a
“it’s become more crucial than ever to equip operators with the tools and knowledge they need to support digitally-enabled construction sites.”
chance to follow up with an accelerated apprenticeship interview linked to the new skills they’ve gained. For those looking to upskill, the Boot camp offers the chance to enhance skills on additional machine categories and gain GPS training. Upon completion, there is also the opportunity to secure sustainable work and contracts, boosting earning potential.
The overall aim of the Skills Bootcamp in Plant Operations is for all successful learners to receive an offer of a new job or have access to new opportunities and contracts that utilise the new skills they have acquired. These skills include how to work sustainably, and having the next generation of operators already trained in this when first coming on site will fur ther improve our carbon output within the industry.
The Skills Bootcamp in Plant Operations offers a flexible approach to training delivery, so each machine category that entrants are trained on is determined through what local employers are in need of. This provides all learners with the greatest chance of employment upon completion, and offers employ ers operators that directly meet their requirements from the day they start on site who are ably trained to use rollers, forward tipping dumpers, dump trucks, 360 excavators, dozers and more.
Anybody who is in work, self-employed, unemployed or looking at returning to work after a break is able to apply for the Skills Bootcamp, as long as they are aged nineteen or older, have the right to work in the UK and live in England. This train ing is being delivered at the Operator Skills Hub sites both in Sutton Coldfield and in the brand-new site in Westbury, at the EKFB A422 Compound.
Over the last year, Flannery have led the plant group within the Supply Chain Sus tainability School through the overhaul of their minimum standards to a second version.
Each organisation within the school becomes a signatory to the charter, mak ing a public pledge to work towards five commitments that address the emission issues we have within the industry. These five commitments include minimum standards in procurement, engagement with stakeholders, awareness raising and education, measurement and reporting, and innovation. After running like this for over a year, the time came for neces sary changes to be made to ensure that those making this pledge to reduce air quality and carbon emissions should now provide evidence to back up their claims.
Flannery have recently been awarded ‘Gold Status’ with the Supply Chain
Sustainability School as part of this new programme within the School’s plant charter, showing that the actions that we have been taking both in innovating our plant and training our operators to lower our emissions on construction sites has resulted in improved air quality and a cleaner working environment.
We’re pleased that we’ve been recognised for our work so far, but we want to en courage others to follow in our footsteps and work together as an industry to create a better environment across all sites, be it corporate or private, big or small, and not just those using Flannery for their plant requirements.
Our plan is to continue focusing on our customers with the programme of events
“we’re going to keep striving to provide the best training for apprentices, qualified operators and managers in a safe environment – and we’re happy to say that the virtual learning environment also puts the fun in our learning experiences, too!”
and innovations supporting ‘Flannery Future’ – our scheme which has, to date, included a number of innovations surrounding machine data and pro ductivity management, alternatively powered plant and capability training of our operators.
“As a company, we reiterate our com mitment to reducing emissions on site through the continued rollout of our sustainability plan. We’re proud of what we’ve worked towards with the Supply Chain Sustainability School so far, but we recognise that there’s still a lot more work to do for us to collectively reach our net zero goals as an industry. We aim to be trendsetters within construc
tion and will continue to actively invest and support innovations across the industry that lead to more efficient usage of plant on site. This efficiency will not only make sites safer and reduce both time and costs for our clients, but it will create a more sustainable environment with a cleaner air quality for the commu nities surrounding these sites. Creating a safer, cleaner and quieter environment for those both directly on site and those living around it is important to creating a sustainable future for the next genera tion – and as a business that will always be centred around family, this will always be at the forefront of our company decisions.”
– Patrick Flannery, Managing Director of Flannery Plant Hire.
A lot of work has gone into our sustain ability plan within the last year, but the easiest way to summarise our beliefs for how we can best improve as an industry is the phrase ‘knowledge is power’.
Collectively, the biggest names across our sector have all published promises to work towards ‘net zero’ sites across the country by a certain point. For this to be possible, we need to all work together to ensure that everybody knows how best to use their skill set in an environmentally friendly way.
We’re not making these changes to be seen as the best in the field. However, Flannery recognise that we’re a leader in the industry and are working with other leaders, including direct competitors, to ensure that there is a future for this industry that will directly impact the fact that diesel-engine plant is a larger contributor to the increase of carbon and toxic air in global and local environ ments.
Our work with clients such as EKFB, SCS and HS2 means that we’re able to access
to do the same, and also undertake these training opportunities.
Chief Executive of the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA), Kevin Minton, heard of our recent efforts and had this to say: “The hard work of com panies such as Flannery is fundamental to the future of the construction indus try, and specifically in the areas of the industry involving plant hire. As a sector, we’re working hard to reduce our emis sions and to create cleaner air on sites – with many high-profile businesses and joint ventures aiming towards net-zero.
Flannery’s ap proach of using education to
many operators across high-profile sites in the country, and we will continue to work with our clients to best meet their needs and also deliver this training di rectly to their sites in order to help them meet their sustainability goals.
We will also continue to upskill our operators independently, ensuring that they are always equipped with the knowl edge and therefore power to use plant wisely, limit idle time and influence other operators on the sites they’re working on
support this challenge is innovative and cost effective, and – most importantlyit’s working. The positive results are clear, and I’m hopeful that these outcomes will result in others across the industry paying attention and adopting these steps that can be taken now. The time for change is now, and everybody needs to face that this needs immediate action, as well as continued effort for generations to come. Companies such as Flannery inevitably have a carbon output due to the nature of the business, but to see
them actively putting steps in place to reduce this – ultimately to net zerois something that gives me confidence in the future of our industry and acts as a clear example for other sectors to follow.”
Protecting the environment from the effects of our daily activities is at the very heart of what we do. As an or ganisation, we feel passionately about making sure our activities go as far as possible to protect the public and, be yond that, enhance the environment and encourage biodiversity.
We know there’s still work to be done and that net zero is still a long way off, but we’re dedicated to reaching it and will continue to educate ourselves and others in the best and most innovative ways to do so. We’re also always happy to collaborate and discuss new ideas with anybody who’s willing to change with us. A lot has changed within the last year, and we know that there’s more to come in 2023 – but we’re excited to see what waits around the corner for us and we’ll keep working with our clients to strive for net zero for as long as it takes.
Find out more today at: https://www.flanneryplanthire.com/ ■
“we will continue to work with our clients to best meet their needs and also deliver this training directly to their sites in order to help them meet their sustainability goals. ”
Adrian Watts, the Managing Director of Hirebase and its 130 branches, talks to Rachel Lambert about his early experiences in the hire industry, and his enthusiastic outlook for the future of the business.
WHEN the young Adrian Watts first applied for a job as a Hire Supervisor in his twenties, he confesses that he didn’t know what on earth the job entailed. Today, he is Managing Director of Hirebase, with responsibility for more than 130 branches. Hirebase is the dedicated construction equipment and tool hire division of Buildbase, a company that was acquired by Huws Gray Limited last December, one of the largest independent builders’ merchants in the UK.
Adrian started in the hire industry in 1989 in Hull. Born and bred in Yorkshire, he laughs as he recounts
the various jobs he had in his younger years, saying that he was then “a salesman at heart”. And sell he did –double glazing, chemicals, insurance and cars. He even had his own news agency at one point!
“I loved being in sales at that time. I was a car salesman but became disillusioned with some of the characters in that business, so thought it was time to try something different. So, scouring the local papers, I applied for any position that had the word ‘sales’ attached to it. That’s when I spotted a job for Jewson Hirepoint who were advertising for Hire Supervisor.
“I’d never heard of Jewson, and I certainly didn’t have a clue what
a hire supervisor was, but I had latched on to the wording in the job description, that required ‘experience in sales’. So, I went for it, and got it. It turned out that I was the only applicant!” laughs Adrian.
It was Malcolm Boyce who conducted the interview, then the Managing Director of Jewson Hirepoint. It materialised that Malcolm also used to sell cars, instantly giving both some common ground. At the time, Malcolm felt that if Adrian could sell cars, he could probably sell anything. So, it was Malcolm Boyce who decided to give Adrian a chance, and his first foray in the world of hire started a week later. He evidently liked it. Adrian remained with Jewson Hirepoint for
11 years, where he was presented with a gold watch for 10 years’ service.
The French conglomerate SaintGobain bought Jewson in 2000.
“That was about the time of my 10 years’ service. They decided to pull
the ‘gold watch’ policy the year after so I was one of the lucky ones! I really enjoyed my time there.”
Adrian explains that he started off in the Hull branch and became Area Manager for the Northeast before being promoted to Sales Director, and then Area Director.
“Jewson liked to reorganise on a regular basis. As an Area Director, I was looking after North Wales, Scotland, the North East and the Midlands, and even had to open some standalone branches in London (those were eventually sold to Speedy). They were great times, and I met some wonderful people, who I class as friends to this day.”
Despite this, Adrian goes on to say: “When Saint-Gobain bought Jewson, the company went in a different direction, and their appetite for hire changed. The problem was I had become a ‘Hire Man’ and despondency started to set in.”
Another reorganisation followed and Adrian was offered the opportunity to work in Jewson’s Kitchens and Bathrooms division, or take a redundancy package.
“i was a car salesman but became disillusioned with some of the characters in that business, so tho0ught it was time to try something different.”
Adrian continues: “I was fortunate to have established many good contacts and quickly got a job for the generator company, Generac. But, within four weeks of my arrival, the MD announced they had been taken over by Briggs & Stratton. He tasked me with trying to get Briggs & Stratton engines into the hire industry which was an uphill battle at the time. I persevered for three years and then moved on.”
Adrian was headhunted by MK Electric, the light switch and
socket specialists, approaching him because of his builders’ merchant experience. They wanted Adrian to kickstart a special offer to companies such as Jewsons, Travis Perkins and Buildbase.
“I only had seven clients to look after, with one day on territory and the other four working from home on a laptop. I thought, ‘great, this is perfect’. Then, unfortunately, my wife had a stroke (she was only 42 at the time) and I needed to take a lot of time off work to help her rehabilitate. Naturally, she was my focus and helping her recover was a priority. Fortunately, she was young and bounced back fairly quickly.”
Following his wife’s
recovery, in 2005 Adrian was back on the job-hunting path, when he got a call from Dave Grainger who was working for Buildbase in Oxford. Hirebase operations had just started with 19 branches at that time. Dave offered Adrian the position of Northern Divisional Manager with responsibility for seven of the branches.
“Initially, I declined. I was thinking about doing something different, but Dave kept persevering and I eventually, accepted. (Of course, a great decision in hindsight.) And, then within six months, he had jumped ship to Travis Perkins; I couldn’t believe it.”
Emerging from that, Adrian was offered the role as Buildbase Hire Manager, with the full support of his colleagues. It didn’t take long
“There’s no guessing which one I went for!”
for Adrian to take the 19-branch hire operation up to 130 outlets, as it stands today. Such elevation for Hirebase had not gone unnoticed. And, in April 2016, Adrian was offered the role as Managing Director.
2008 recession. And from a business perspective, we actually had a reasonably successful year in 2020, followed by the best year we’ve ever had in 2021.”
ownership.” He is very optimistic about the future.
“We are in a different place now, with Huws Gray as our owners, and I’m very excited about the future, especially the next three or four years. They have 120 branches without any hire operation, so there is great potential to expand Hirebase within many of these sites.”
When asked about the ‘challenging times’ Adrian cites the recession of 2008. It was the year that the UK went into what can best be described as financial meltdown. Firmly etched in Adrian’s mind is a memory of, “very difficult times, more so than Covid.”
“When people are made redundant, your decision affects their ability to live and who knows, it may be a while before they get another job, especially with the situation as it was in 2008. This, for me personally, was possibly one of the toughest moments in business. Around that time, we’d grown to about 50 branches, employing quite a number of people. I think it took us two years to really recover from the great recession of 2008. Making people redundant was far more difficult, than furloughing people during Covid.”
It brings us on to more recent challenges, the coronavirus pandemic.
“Covid was totally different. We paid everyone 100% of their salary. Like other businesses, we completely shutdown on 23rd March when the country when into lockdown, and then trickled back from 4th May. Some didn’t return until August. They were strange times, but for me, it wasn’t as challenging as the
last December, Hirebase is going from strength to strength, with Adrian saying, “the company has had a fantastic nine months under their
One such Hirebase branch near Wigan is preparing to open very soon; and it is significant because it the first standalone operation that is separate from the branch.
firmly etched in adrian’s mind is a memory of, “very difficult times, more so than covid”
“Opening a new branch, and watching all the kit and equipment move in, is one of the most exciting aspects of what we do. And then we watch it grow. Without any doubt, this is the favourite part of my role.”
Hirebase is also investing in new equipment, not just replenishing fleets but expanding its product offering.
“Huws Gray has a better understanding of how we operate. Whereas before, we only had capex for fleet replacement, we now are in the position to invest in additional fleet, which is fantastic. So, we are looking at adding small telehandlers, in the 4 to 6m category, to our range, which is something we have never done before. We have, for the first time, also added JCB low level powered access to our range too, so there is a lot to look forward to at Hirebase.”
With the cost-of-living crisis, high inflation and high interest rates, and the country generally sailing into some difficult times, what are Adrian’s predictions for the business? He explains that he is in the middle of budget forecasts for next year.
“It’s hard. Who could have predicted Covid? Who could have predicted the war in Ukraine? I am forever the optimist, and based on our business model, we are still going for growth next year. That growth will be organic, based on us opening new depots and other branches gaining some maturity. With interest rates and inflation as they are now, I do think we will be
going into recession sooner or later, but hire is also more recession-proof than builders’ merchant businesses.
He explains further, “During a downturn, you do suffer from it, but not to the same extent as a builders’ merchant. Many depend on large projects, whereas we would rather have a lot of smaller projects. We carry an extensive range of equipment, and we still have a lot of customers coming in during recession, whether that’s for a wallpaper stripper, or a carpet cleaner; it’s still bringing business in. All I can say is, I know we are currently as busy as we ever have been.”
It is evident how driven Adrian is, and how much he enjoys being at the helm of Hirebase.
“I am 62 this year, and I have no retirement plans. If when I’m 68, I still feel as I do now, I’ll still be doing this. Our new owners have given us fresh motivation to take Hirebase forward, something we didn’t have before which is very invigorating.”
So, what has he learnt during his many years in the hire industry? He laughs. “In my Jewson days when I became Area Manager, I was the proverbial ‘bull in a china shop’. I couldn’t get the salesman out of me, so I learnt to adopt the helicopter view, which meant looking at a situation from above. I also learnt a mantra which has stuck with me ever since: ‘Failing to prepare, is preparing to fail’ and I stand by that. I recite it a lot- ask anyone I have ever employed!”
It is hard to imagine that Adrian has much free time out of work. He is, however, a staunch supporter of West Ham United, stemming from the days of Bobby Moore who “was his hero as a young lad”. (Adrian’s quick to justify his support being a Yorkshireman!) His other sporting love is Hull Kingston Rovers, the rugby league team that has their shirts sponsored by Hirebase.
“I’m more of a rugby league fan, than a football fan. We have been supporting Hull Kingston Rovers since the 70’s. I can remember being able to see the ground from my bedroom window as a young lad at home.”
He also describes himself as a ‘failed golfer’. “I try a lot but fail miserably to get anywhere near the level I’d like to be.”
We wrap up our interview with Adrian saying from the heart, “I am fortunate to look back and not have any real regrets. I’m really honoured to be Managing Director of Hirebase, to reach this pinnacle and still enjoy it. And there’s so much more to come.”
The relaxed conversation continues after our Plant Planet interview has finished. Adrian has struck me as a very grounded, yet very motivated and enthusiastic individual; someone I have had great pleasure chatting with. He may be a salesman turned hire-man, but above all, Adrian has evidently accomplished the art of successful leadership.
For more information visit: https://www.hirebase.uk/
A NEW BRANCH AND WATCHING ALL THE KIT AND EQUIPMENT MOVE IN, IS ONE OF THE MOST
ASPECTS OF WHAT WE DO..””
2020, TVH officially intro duced three types of equipment within small earth-moving (SEM) to its parts range: mini-excavators, skid steer loaders and compact track loaders. New parts are added every day and by the end of this year we will also include parts for backhoe loaders in our range. So we sat down with Joris Tijtgat, Team Leader of the SEM Team, to discuss TVH’s rise in the world of parts for small earth-movers and the exciting future ahead.
“In 2020, we officially included parts and accessories for small earth-movers in our range”, Joris begins. “Of course, that market was not unknown territory for us. We were already helping count less SEM owners and had many match ing parts in stock. But at the same time, we noticed that some of our customers did not yet know that we could also sup ply these parts. So we decided to seize that opportunity with both hands!”
“TVH specialises in small earth-movers up to ten tonness”, Joris clarifies. “For now, we supply parts for three equip ment types: mini-excavators, skid steer loaders and compact track loaders.”
“At TVH, we proactively source parts suitable for nine focus brands: Bobcat, Case, Caterpillar, JCB, John Deere, Kubota, Takeuchi, Volvo, and Yanmar”, Joris continues. “Those brands repre sent the largest market share within our submarkets.
But don’t worry if your machine doesn’t belong to one of our focus brands. Chances are we can still help! “
“Looking only at the focus brands, we have around two million known refer ences”, Joris elaborates. “However, our total number of known references – of all of our small earth-movers’ parts –runs to more than four million!
That huge amount of known referenc es means we stock more than just the typical parts needed for general main tenance. Of course, you can come to us for filters, engine and transmission oil, coolant and so on, but also for all kinds of wear parts.
“We have an extensive range of brands and parts, but our high number of known references is even more im pressive. We owe this to our extensive look-up service for more than 30 brands active in earth-moving.”
“However, it’s also possible that a new part is not exactly what you are looking for. Our remanufactured parts have been repaired and reconditioned by our skilled technicians in the Parts Workshop or Electronics Department. They are of top quality and come with the same one year warranty as our new parts.
During the last months of this year, we will officially introduce backhoe loaders to our range!
Find out more at: https://www.tvh.com/ ■
Kate Hutchison unpacks the anticipated action from BAUMA, the world’s leading trade fair for construction machinery, building material machines, mining machines, construction vehicles and equipment and what you can expect from this years event.
The countdown is on, with less than one month to go until the 33rd Edition of Bauma, the world’s leading trade fair for construction machinery, building material ma chines, mining machines, con struction vehicles and construction equipment. Bauma, which takes place every three years in Munich, was initially scheduled for April 2021, however after subsequently being postponed, is once again get ting ready to opens its doors for on 7 days from 24th October 2022 to 30th October 2022 on the grounds of the Neue Messe München. Bauma reflects the entire industry
in all its detail, and this year’s show looks to focus on digitalization and sustainability with “The construction methods and materials of tomorrow” as one of the key topics. Key themes throughout the event also include:
- Construction methods and materi als of tomorrow
- The way to autonomous machines
- Mining – sustainable, efficient, reliable
- Digital construction site
- The way to Zero Emission
The show will see over 3,000 exhib itors from 58 countries showcase their latest innova
“BAUMA REFLECTS THE ENTIRE INDUSTRY IN ALL ITS DETAIL..”
tions in the show that takes place over 200,000 square metres of hall space and 414,000 square metres of
outdoor space. This year’s event will include many key market players present their latest solutions, includ ing:
Altrad Belle, Liebherr, Bell Equip ment, BKT, FAYAT group, Bronto Skylift, Bucher Municipal, Caterpillar, Continental, Engcon, Euro Auctions, Fogmaker, Hitachi, Sinoboom, Hydrema, John Deere, Wirtgen, Kobelco, Kohler, Komatsu, Kubota, Magni, MB Crusher, McCloskey, Merlo, Rototilt, Senebogen, Sitech, Takeuchi, Thwaites, TopCon, Track Unit, Trim ble, TVH Parts, Webasto, Yanmar
Bauma is a leader in Europe for the mining industry, and this year, the event will once again be the hub of the industry, with exhibitors set to showcase the key role the mining industry plays, and experts looking into the sustainability, efficiency, and reliability of mining technologies. The event has a key focus on ques tions about what the future holds for the mining industry, such as how can mining profit from its digitization and automation edge in the future? Bauma will also take a look at the entire spectrum of the mining sector, starting with machines for extraction of raw materials, to the handling of raw material, and finally, the process ing technology.
"The show WILL SEE OVER 3,000 EXHIBITORS FROM 58 COUNTRIES SHOWCASE THEIR LATEST INNOVATIONS."
Liebherr Mining will also showcase its existing and proven mining solu
Residence. The show will also include a new programme known as ”Think Big”, which looks to promote talented young peo ple within the industry. This year, the Ben ninghoven REVOC
tions at the event and will also unveil a brand-new mid-size class hydraulic mining excavator - the second Gen eration 8 machine within the Lieb herr Mining portfolio.
Innovation Awards at show
The international Bauma Innovation Award will also be presented for the 13th time at Bauma 2022. The com petition is a joint initiative between Bauma and a well-known trade asso ciation. The presentation of the Bau ma Innovation Award traditionally takes place on the eve of the open ing of the trade fair at the Munich
system, from WIRTGEN Group has been nominated for the 2022 Bauma Innovation Award in the “Climate Protection” category. The REVOC system is a technology for reduc ing the output of greenhouse gases from asphalt mixing plants. In addition to reducing CO2, it can reduce the total carbon emissions by as much as 50%.
Zero-emission operation is one of the major trends in the con struction machinery industry, with “The road to zero emissions”
being a central theme at this year’s show, with many exhibitors already announcing brand-new electric developments ready to showcase at this year’s event. To reduce green house gas emissions in keeping with global targets such as net zero by 2050, more and more construction machinery is being developed in tune with electrification trends. Here’s a look at just some of the new products expected at Bauma:
"The international bauma innovation award will also be presented for the 13th time at bauma 2022"
Komatsu has been keen in devel oping solutions that can help move the construction industry towards carbon neutrality, and at this year’s event, will premier several electrified machineries in keeping with this target. On display will be the “Fully electric non-operator mini excavator” announced as a concept machine in May 2021, the “PC01E-1” electric mi cro excavator introduced to the Japa nese market in March 2022, as well as a 3-ton class electric mini excavator. Not only this, but the company will also have an exclusive Virtual Stand that promises that it will “transport you to a near future” in giving visitors a first look at upcoming innovations for our wheel loaders.
Bobcat will be presenting several new products and technological develop ments for the first time at the exhibi tion.
BAUMA stand will feature sever al new machinery premieres and technological developments on their stand at Bauma, including the T7X, the world’s first all-electric compact track loader!
• New S86 and T86 R-Series Loaders
• Concept - Quad TracksBauma Innovation Award Finalist
• Concept - The T7X – The World’s First All-Electric Compact Track Loader
• ConceptOLED Transparent Touch Display
• Concept - E35 Operate By Wire Mini-Exca vator
“Many of the Bobcat products being presented at Bauma will be show cased for the first time. Over the last
three years, we have significantly reworked our portfolio, added new product ranges and at Bauma, we will premiere even more new prod uct categories,“ said Gustavo Otero, President Doosan Bobcat EMEA.
Mecalac are set to showcase their electrifying vision for the future with the sector’s first zero emissions range of medium sized compact equip ment, comprising of their 11-tonne
excavator (the E12), a 1,000-litre swing loader (the ES1000) and a sixtonne cabbed site dumper (the ED6), and have even created a solution to tackle the challenge of limited on-site
“many of the bobcat products being presented at bauma will be showcased for the first time”
power sources. M-Power – a 300kWh portable battery power supply –eliminates the requirement for tradi tional diesel generators and offers a low-carbon charging option for their latest electric equipment, aiming to demonstrate the real-world viability of electric compact equipment.
Doosan are also set to present an industry leading display of new state-of-the-art machine and digital technologies at the company’s stand, with innovation playing a core theme in their display at this year’s event. Doosan will be demonstrating the
latest version of Concept-X, the world’s first unmanned automated and integrated control, along with The DX225LC-7X – Doosan‘s First
‘Smart‘ Excavator and their DX 1000LC-7 – the largest ever excava tor from Doosan, plus much more next generation machinery. generation machinery. Junttan will be exhibiting at Bauma 2022 for the thirteenth time. This time, Junttan is showcasing its latest sustainable solutions for the piling business. At the show, visitors have
the possibility to see the world’s first electric pile driving rig, which was officially launched in 2021 by Junttan, and is now for display at an exhibition for the first time. Electric pile driving machine, eJunttan PMx2e, is the fully battery-powered electric pile driving rig that is ready to meet the same challenges at the work site as its pre decessors. Instead of a diesel engine, Junttan is now powering the hydraulic system with a modern electric motor that generates its power from a battery pack at the rear of the rig where the counterweight was located. There is also a packed schedule of live demonstrations that will take place
throughout the entirety of the event, including a live demo of the Brextor pile mining head – a quan tum leap in the sustainable method to process bored piles live in action. There will also be a demonstration of the iDig 2D and 3D excavator guidance system, every day at 11 AM and 3:30 PM throughout the duration of Bauma, and many more live demos, including smart exca vator, BAMTEC: Reinforcement technology 4.0, Modular Building with 3D moulds and 3D printing in a new dimension with concrete, plus many more.
With the construction industry looking to pave the way for a more sustainable future, Bauma are look ing to set an example for others,
“more and more construction machinery are being developed in tune with the electrification trend.”
promoting sustainability measures for both visitors and exhibitors, including offering attendees a gogreen ticket where they can contrib ute to climate protection and offset their CO₂ footprint at the exhibition through the purchase of their ticket. Bauma have ensured special areas included within the show, such as the innovation hall LAB0, are built from “circular” materials (“WOODï” system). They have also offered climate-neutral Trade fair stands to exhibitors where, by book ing them, exhibitors compensate for the CO² emissions generated during stand construction.
Bauma also boasts of an eco-friend ly infrastructure, with easy access to public transport for any attendees, which allows travel to the show in an environ mentally friendly way, in addition to near 50 charging stations on the exhibition grounds to promote the use of electric vehi cles for travel to and from the event. Also included around the site are sustainable waste management prac tices, such as ensuring waste from construction and dismantling is recycled.
to refrain from printed materials and instead making use of digital adver tising and programs.
Not only this, but Bauma have also chosen to promote sustainability through their partnerships such as ensuring only to cooperate with printing companies that commit to the promise of sustainability and em ploying catering suppliers who rely on local supply chains.
Bauma have also opted for more sustainable advertising ma terials, choosing
Visitors can register to attend this year’s Bauma at: https://bauma.de/en/ ■
Air Spectrum delve into the importance of prioritising air quality and the elevated risk it poses to those in the construction, demolition, and waste industry.
environments are not to be taken lightly. In fact, air quality as a health issue in the UK, is in crisis. Therefore, it’s not hard to imagine the elevated risks that are present in industries such as construction, demolition, waste and recycling and timber processing. In our built environment, the most common
industrial dust threats come from construction and waste sectors. They can cause respirable disease and damage, some lasting a life time. The challenge therefore, is to prevent that from happening.
Before prevention, we need to understand what the common oc cupational respirable risks are. There are two types that can cause short and long term damage to unprotected employees:
‘Dust – the occupational risk we cannot ignore – a greener way to tackle it.
Respirable dust particles are
travelling deep into
lungs and causing serious health effects for those exposed to them. A respirable dust particle can be identified as being smaller than 10 µm.
Inhalable dust is made up of larg er particles that can be breathed in, these particles are visible to the naked eye and can be inhaled through the throat and nose. Dust particles smaller than 100 µm make up inhalable dust.
The reason for concern about occupational lung health and ability to breathe is that if you can’t do it properly, your whole life is affected, both personally and professionally. Lung disease is all pervasive. The effects might not be immediate, but they are likely to develop into a serious condition, so it’s worth thinking about the future now and what can be done to prevent occupational related illness.
Breathing difficulties can stop you from being able to work and can also stop you from living a normal life outside work.
ignore your safety guidance at work.
site
Much can be accomplished by establishing a plan that identifies all risks to employees clearly. From this identification, a targeted health and safety plan can be created for each site.
which ensures employees undertake their work safely, protecting their health.
It’s also important for employees to feel that they can question any safe
ty guidance.
Health and safety managers must be diligent with producing Method Statements, Risk Assessments, and other relevant data sheets. It’s dou bly important that employees are encouraged to read and heed them. They provide vital information
They are the ones on the frontline working in the hazard ous condi tions every day. So, if safety guidance provided isn’t compatible with what risks oc cur on site, then changes may need to be made to safety materials.
And finally, always wear PPE and use appropriate safety equipment,
like dust suppression. Always ensure PPE equipment is in good condition, wearing the relevant protection to the type of job being undertaken and size of dust particle present.
Undertaking Occupational Hy giene Assessments are another key factor in determining risk factors to employees. They help to identify and measure workplace exposure levels to harmful dust and the ensu ing risk of contracting respiratory illness from them.
Greener safety technology that doesn’t add to the problems
In terms of occupational practices, to achieve lasting, positive changes
in air quality in the industrial set ting, technology must evolve, and most importantly, be embraced. Solutions don’t have to be compli cated. Re-using familiar technology in different ways can spark a cultur al change in our supply chains if we don’t shy away from it.
A common solution to controlling dust on sites is the use of water. Water-based dust suppression through misting and fogging equip ment is a common approach. The nozzles produce a finely atomised mist of water that captures the dust and brings it to the ground. With many solutions available, dust sup pression equipment can be mobile or fixed on-site depending on the requirements and individual needs.
At Air Spectrum Environmental, we are committed to developing the greenest solutions to improve air quality going forward. We have already designed an emissions free dust suppression system – ‘ecotech’.
ments, like in our cities’ ongoing building and engineering projects, are afforded a safety solution that does not create an emissions prob lem while fulfilling its function.
making the decision to use green solutions going forward, and then the adjustment to a newer way of working follows.
commitment to make a difference is the key and then acting upon it.
It is battery operated rather than us ing diesel, so functions at zero emis sions. It makes negligible sound, therefore not adding to noise pol lution – yet another occupational health concern. By using this kind of dust suppression, workers oper ating in dangerously dusty environ
To successfully achieve Net Zero by 2050, decarbon ising of supply chains is vital as we build a more sustaina ble future. Commitment to make a difference is the key and then acting upon it. Concerns along the supply chain about using ‘new’ technolo gies like this are often cost based. However, to decarbonise the supply chain only transfers a small per centage more cost to the end user. The hardest part of the process is
The ‘ecotech’ battery-operated system is available on a range of Air Spectrum’s dust suppression range. They are available to assess and ad vise on what solutions are required to keep dust at bay on-site, keeping workers safe. Air quality monitor ing and assessment services are also available.
Visit www.airspectrum.com or give them a call on 01905 362100 to discuss your requirements. ■
eighth edition of UK Construction Week Birmingham, is set to be the busiest to date! This year’s show is being held at the NEC on the 4th -6th October 2022. UK Construction Week is one of the UK’s largest construction events and covers all facets of design, build and product innovation and helps to provide visitors with answers as to what when, where and how we build our future.
It is a massive event covering a variety of construction innovation, policy advances and new product development. Officially opened by architect
and Channel 4 presenter George Clarke, UKCW Birmingham is the must-attend construction event this Autumn and is expecting around 25,000 attendees with visitor registrations already up 15% year-on-year.
Training, Tarmac, Google, Bosch, Ring and many more. EBay has also been announced as this year’s latest high-profile sponsor.
CONSTRUCTION EVENT THIS AUTUMN and is expecting around 25,000 attendees.”
This year’s show will be co-located with Grand Designs Birmingham, Green Living Live as well as the Timber Expo 2022. The show will see over 6,000 products on display with over 300 exhibitors showcasing their latest products, including: Balfour Beatty, GLP
The show will see many new topics come to light, with the celebrating culture change in construction being a key theme of the show. Over the 3-day event, the show will have a discussion from many key speakers highlighting how the industry can tackle some of its biggest issues,
Plant Planet delve into what can be expected at this years UKCW Birmingham, the UK’s largest built environment event.including improving diversity and inclusion, mental health as well as sustainability efforts. Sustainability will have a key feature in UK Construction Week Birmingham, as it features a special section dedicated to Net Zero with products and innovations showcasing products with a specific focus on protecting the environment. Innovations on show include:
• The K-briq®: low carbon, recycled facing brick, made from 90% recycled construction & demolition waste.
• The X-TENDA™ 3600, a revolutionary framing system making telescopic steel framing
• Biohm, the world’s first accredited mycelium insulation product
For the budding construction worker, the UKCW Role Models initiative will be back at the show, alongside the Careers Centre which aims to bring new talent and skills to the industry and is looking to host a series of talks aimed at those interested in a career in construction.
UKCW 2022 will feature a total of seven core sections,
that will bring all aspects of the supply chain together. Including:
Net Zero, Build, Digitalisation, Infrastructure, Surfaces, Offsite and also new for 2022, Timber Expo.
Zero-emission is one of the major trends in the construction industry with many striving to keep in line with global targets to be net zero by 2050. New for the 2022 show is a dedicated Net Zero are designed specifically to showcase innovations that will contribute to a more sustainable built environment. The Construction Leadership Council’s initiative CO2nstruct Zero has provided a standard for the whole industry to get behind, and UK Construction Week is getting behind as well.
The Net Zero area will feature a ZERO workshop hub which will focus on a variety of tools and skills as well as construction plant, equipment, labour and transport, and the role of technology and digitalisation and how their improved performance are leading to lower emissions.
Also featured in the Net Zero area will be a remarkable A.I. ART EXHIBITION, named “TWO FUTURES” which is looking to provide a glimpse into two possible futures one future which has
achieved net zero and in contrast, one that has suffered at the full effects of climate change.
The Build sector will host specific product areas such as roofing, tools, fire prevention and more.
The Digitalisation are will look into the very latest technological advancements that could increase efficiency and productivity in your business.
Infrastructure will feature representatives from some of the largest rail, building and rail
“One of the main reasons this October will be one of the busiest shows we’ve ever done is because the whole industry is embracing and looking forward to that valued face to face time once more.”
projects.
In the surfaces area, visitors will find solutions to all their flooring needs as well as a great selection of ceramic tiles.
The Offsite section will look to explore the latest advances in manufacturing, design, planning fabrication and even assembly.
The Timber Expo will also be celebrating its 10th year running but also its first time being co— located with UKCW. Here you will find the UK’s largest dedicated showcase for wood and timber in construction.
That’s not all! This year’s event will also feature an action packed line-up of speakers from backgrounds all over the industry, covering a variety of topics such as the construction market outlook
- Nathan Garnett,
Visitors will be able to find sections dedicated to Building Materials, Digitalisation, Infrastructure, Surface & Materials, Offsite Construction, and Skills & Careers.
for 2023 and beyond, Co2nstruct zero: one year on from cop, where are we? As well as a look into the building for 2050 report: upfront cost vs long term energy prices.
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street has also announced that he will be joining the lineup as a VIP keynote speaker at UK Construction Week Birmingham. Andy Street will take the main stage in a session titled “UKCW Question Time with Andy Street” on the Thursday 6th October, and will see Mr Street answering Midanders’ major construction questions on the Future Homes Strategy; the Housing and Land Board; careers and skills; infrastructure; transport; regeneration and much more.
Many exhibitors will also seize the opportunity to announce their new product launches at this years event.
Including Nexus Vehicle Rental, who will be demonstrating their award winning rental management software - the Uk’s largest supply network of rental vehicles in over 2,000 locations. Rolec will also be showcasing their extensive range of electric vehicle charging points at the show including their brand-new charger known as “Zura”. Utility Parts UK Ltd are also launching their new worksite lighting system at the show, designed for
Sustainability is at the heart of the new Future Lab area (formerly the Innovation Zone) which is just one of the most exciting features at UKCW Birmingham 2022
the construction, rail and civil industries.
With all the new innovations set to be seen, this show is one you don’t want to miss!
Don’t miss out! Visitors for the Birmingham UK Construction Week can register free today at https://www.ukconstructionweek. com/welcome ■
Rachel Lambert catches-up with Nicola Troy of Strickland MFG Ltd to find out what brought her into the world of construction equipment.
are those who are enthusiastic about their jobs, and then there are those who radiate enthusiasm for their jobs. Nicola Troy is definitely best described as the latter. There is no doubt that she will be a familiar face to many in the industry. Nicola is National Key Account Manager for Strickland MFG Ltd, Europe’s largest manufacturer and stockist of buckets and attachments for earthmoving and demolition equip ment, headquartered in Evesham in Worcestershire. She describes her role as “one that has grown quite organical ly with the company, and one she loves dearly.”
We are on a Zoom call and Nicola is speaking to me from her parental fam ily home in Dublin, which she tries to visit during her regular business trips to customers across Ireland, as well as Strickland’s manufacturing plant in Northern Ireland. The conversation soon starts flowing. Nicola grew up and was educated in
Dublin, attending Dublin City University studying English, French and Human Development, with all good intentions of following the family tradition to become a teacher. Having graduated in 1996, Nicola decided to visit the UK with a friend for the summer “having a laugh and doing some part-time work” along the way. She was meant to return to Dublin University to study for a Higher Diploma.
“I met a man and never went back so that was the end of my teaching career,” Nicola laughs. “I ended up marrying that man!”
Deciding a job was needed, Nicola ini tially worked for NFU Mutual based in Tiddington, near Stratford-upon-Avon. With a degree in hand, Nicola was ac cepted as a graduate working in the role of a financial advisor.
“It was a great job, but I became disillu sioned with financial services, and the need to constantly sit exams as well as the ongoing monitoring, so I decided to think about alternative career paths.
chines working with OEMs and OEDs, and a sister business, Strickland Direct, supplying and dealing with end users. Peter wanted to develop the business in Ireland and rather wisely worked out that
ber my husband laughing saying, ‘you don’t even know how a car works Nicola, so how would you consider a career in that sort of industry’.”
Nicola “took a punt” and joined Strick land Direct in 2003 as Business Devel opment Manager, although she says officially, “we didn’t have any fancy titles”. Strickland Direct was pretty much a “startup” at the time, operating out of a shared premises based in Pershore.
Ironically, it was through an NFU client, Peter Strickland, that I was encouraged to take the leap.”
Peter Strickland at that time owned Strickland, which comprised two divisions: Strickland Tracks producing complete undercarriage systems for ma
an Irish native was always going to have a head start.
“Looking back, it was funny because he asked if I knew anyone who was Irish who may be interested in working for his business. It didn’t sink in at the time that he was dropping a hint for me. I remem
“It was hard work when I joined the business and started knocking on doors, especially given my task of trying to grow sales in the UK and in Ireland. We were up against some well-known names, who didn’t hesitate in trying to make our life difficult. I was very fortunate that big names such as Lynch and Flannery gave me an opportunity early on. This opened doors for us.
“We listened to what they wanted, worked with them on bespoke products to support their projects, and in doing so, demonstrated to others, our capabilities and the quality of our products. It led to us working with larger end users and plant hire companies. We felt that if we could convince the end user that we had a good product, then it would lead us to opportunities with OEMs and OEDs. And it did! It was a successful route for Strickland and allowed us to quietly gain recognition.”
that is rather like an engineering hub for Europe. The O’Neill family, headed by Pat O’Neill, already had strong connec tions with the industry.
“At the time we were uncertain, but it is the best thing that happened to Strick land, especially for Strickland Direct. All the staff were retained, which meant the knowledge was retained too, so it was good for all concerned. My boss, Ian Wooltorton, was Sales Manager at the time and he is Managing Director today,” explains Nicola.
design and development. We also were able to put a lot of stock on the ground, even more so since moving into our new premises.”
This brings us onto Strickland’s very impressive new facility. Outgrowing its original premises in Pershore, Strickland invested in multiple acres of land in near by Evesham, the site of its brand-new premises, facilitating spacious indoor and outdoor storage, a purpose-built welding workshop as well as offices. They moved in 2015.
In 2006, Peter Strickland sold the busi ness to the O’Neill Manufacturing Group in Dungannon, Northern Ireland; an area
“The new owners had a passion for growth and investment, which allowed us to start working with much larger companies and to invest in more products, with a greater emphasis on
Despite vastly increasing the headcount at our Evesham Head office, along with adding multiple manufacturing and distribution facilities over the years, Strickland MFG still is a family business. It is this caring family attitude, with hon est values, that has helped Nicola along the way.
“When my boss, Ian Wooltorton, first interviewed me for the job 18 years
“we were up against some well known names, who didnt hesitate in trying to make our life difficult”
ago, he had some reservations about my transition from financial services to construction and mining. I was the
subsequently learnt an awful lot over the last 18 years. I don’t claim to know everything because none of us do, but if you are committed to the job (as I am) you have to go that ex tra mile to learn about
raderie, from design and engineering, through to buying and sales.”
Teamwork is integral to Strickland, with “everyone mucking in together”. In her early years at Strickland when Nicola was pregnant, and the only female there, she was apprehensive about breaking the news to her male colleagues. She knew they would be supportive but didn’t want to leave them in the lurch.
only customer-facing female within the organisation. But, I got the break and the team was, and still is, extremely support ive becoming both my extended family and friends.”
Nicola reflects on a time when her moth er was ill back at her home in Ireland, in 2017. She remembers the support the O’Neill family gave, urging her to book a flight and “get home”. Sadly, Nicola’s mother passed away that year. “We really do support and look after each other here. I have been taught, and have
the products inside and out, and under stand the industry. If I don’t know the answer to something, there is always another person in the business who does, and that’s why we work so well as a team. And we have a great team, amazing cama
we felt that if we could convince the end user that we had a good product, then it would lead us to opportunities with oems and oeds...And it did!
“I knew I had to tell them, but I want ed to be able to suggest a solution for my maternity cover. Fortunately, I had someone lined up – Alan Kells, who at the time was a customer of mine working for a JCB dealer in Ireland. He joined the business … and has never left.”
Nicola is full of praise for her colleagues, and singles out her wonderful assistant, Natalia, saying she couldn’t do her job without her, and describes Alan and Luke Smith, her ‘partners in Sales’, as “brilliant at their jobs.”
“Quality products and reliable, honest service delivered by a knowledgeable, very dedicated team are at the heart of the Strickland business. A good example is our warranty claims. They are tiny, ac
counting for less than half a percent. We don’t aim to be the cheapest – cheap may be grand but it’s not always good – we sell competitively priced products, that are qual ity, value for money products and get a lot of positive feedback.”
I ask Nicola if she is pleased that more women are now working in the industry. She says it is “great to see, but I think it is important that we are not seen as ‘extraordinary’ just because we drive a digger, or head-up an international com pany. We’re not better than men, we’re all just as good as each other – and that
applies to any industry.”
There have been challenges along the
way. Covid and Brexit causing their fair share of stress, making export and selling into Ireland quite problematic in the early days.
“The transport company we used wouldn’t deliver to the south (of Ireland) so we had stock sitting in Dublin for a while, but that’s all running smoothly now. We are lucky to have a great clear ing agent who handles all the paperwork and transport arrangements. And then there’s the difficult aspect of pricing. Transport prices had risen so dramati cally which naturally impacts on our cost prices. It is an uncomfortable conversa tion for many suppliers to have with their customers. That said, it is a worldwide problem, rather than a Strickland issue or construction-related, so it has been something that has become easier to discuss with most customers, who have been very understanding. I never think we should be ashamed to explain that, for a company to have a future, it needs to make money – a profitable company is a successful company.”
Like others in sales, Nicola is talking to customers about their requirements for 2023 to ensure supplies are as efficient as possible.
“More customers are forward planning,
i got the break and the team was, and still is, extremely supportive becoming both my extended family and friends
giving us more visibility, which is helpful to us in our preparations. It is fair to say that our lead times have increased, and like many, we can’t necessarily confirm
“I personally found Covid and the early days of lockdown very tough, and it was so helpful to share ‘pain points’ with others in the same business during those unprecedented times. They may be competitors, but we get on very well together.”
After 18 years at Stickland, Nicola has obviously carved a niche in the industry. “I absolutely love, love, love my job; I love going out and meeting people in the industry, love going to shows and interact ing with customers. And love the buzz of being involved in big deals. Strickland is a wonderful place to work.”
pricing for 2023. It would be helpful if everyone in the industry played equally. If, say, a machine and its attachments increase in price, I believe everything in the chain should mirror this. But, the hire rate doesn’t and it’s a real shame for the small to mid-sized hire companies who are unable to compete with the larger names.”
Nicola explains that she has a good rela tionship with competitors, which some times involves them “working together” when mutual customers are involved.
Nicola knows all about flexibility as a former gymnast. She is, without ques tion, passionate about the business she works for, which she admits does make finding time for interests outside of work quite difficult. With the support of her family, she appears to juggle this well and is quick to praise her husband, Andy, and 11-year-old son, Finn who Nicola says, “knows nearly as much about digger buckets as me because he spends a lot of time in the car listening to my conversations”.
Find out more about Strickland at www.stricklandmfguk.com ■
“Teamwork is integral to Strickland, with “everyone mucking in together”
Re-flow is an award-winning field management system for construction, trusted by over 200 companies nationwide, including industry heavyweights M.V. Kelly, Colas and BMI. The software brings all major operational processes under one roof. With a seamless link between remote sites and the back-office through a user-friendly app and dashboard, Reflow enables real-time data, instant communication, strictly enforced compliance and more.
One of Re-flow’s core features is its asset management capabilities. Dashboard users can easily store, view and manipulate data on all their vehicles, plant and equipment. Digital signatures and time and location tags on forms enable real-time tracking capabilities. Unique QR codes can be generated and attached to each vehicle, which can be scanned by operatives on-site. This enables office staff to remain current with the last known location and current user of each asset.
Defects are recorded using vehicle safety checks and are instantly fed back to the dashboard on submission.
Powerful automated workflows can then update the asset’s status within the records, as well as automatically scheduling a maintenance reminder. Even if a vehicle is serviceable, events such as maintenance or MOTs can be scheduled to automatically recur, or notifications can be set to remind staff of upcoming maintenance.
Out the box, Re-flow comes equipped with a catalogue of customizable, digital forms, including essentials such as vehicle safety checks, RAMS, dynamic risk assessments and more. These forms can then be tweaked and tailored to fit specifications or be built from scratch using an intuitive block-based form building system. Small and basic or sprawling and complex, all forms are built to regulatory standards.
Tracking doesn’t just extend to vehicles and plant. Re-flow’s dashboard
automatically tracks app users in the field, accurate down to a meter. With support for Google Maps, GPS and what3words, live user tracking doesn’t just provide a more detailed overview of works. Being current on the location of workers enables reactive scheduling, allowing managers to assign nearby workers to jobs as the need emerges.
“It’s impacted the culture massively because it’s brought the site into safety more. Before, they’ve always seen safety as a burden. Re-flow has made it easier to complete safety forms, to the point where operatives are requesting additional forms. Before, it was a piece of paper - a tick exercise. Now they actually want more on site because they’re realising how it’s benefiting them.”
- Sarah Duffy, Safety Administration Manager, MV KellyTo learn more about Re-flow’s field management software, demo to qualify for a free trial or call 01392 574002 today.
■
As the introduction of more and more clean air zones across the UK grows at a faster pace than in recent years, what does the future look like for plant machinery trying to achieve the Euro VI standard?
We are in no doubt that the industry faces challenges to ensure machinery is compliant, but as Webasto is one of the world leading driving forces behind e-mobility, we would like to reassure that inroads are being made and cost effective technologies developed, meaning that compliance is more achievable than realised.
Technical advances in drive, battery, and charging technology are already enabling electrification on a grand scale, but what Webasto sees, is the key to successful electrification of construction machinery lies in high voltage technol ogy.
Webasto reveals: “High voltage technol ogy delivers precisely the high energy density needed by construction ma chinery.” This means that construction machines can charge with an electrical voltage of up to 800 volts and serve demanding load profiles. In addition, smaller cable cross-sections are possible for the same charging power so that the machines can be charged faster.
Webasto has therefore developed high quality individual battery solutions. Produced as standardised packs, they offer a scalable energy output from 35 to 350 kilowatt hours. The packs comprise 16 modules each, which are in a robust housing and include a dedicated cooling interface.
This cooling interface or Thermal Man agement System along with a specifical ly designed Vehicle Interface Box (VIB) is one area that propels Webasto Battery solutions to the forefront of electrifica tion technology. The primary VIB con
trols secondary Battery Management System (BMS) units in each battery module, therefore balancing the current flow from each one. As well as enabling communication between individual hardware components and correspond ing software, the VIB also serves as the interface between the batteries and the vehicle, combining the functions of a power distributor, BMS and fuse box in a single enclosure.
CONVERSION IN ACTION Dutch company E.C.E part of Staad, an official importer and distributor of Doosan construction machinery, has already began their strategic plan of converting fuel-powered excavators to electric drive. The plan is to continue converting a further 40 machines as demand grows.
The two Doosan Excavator models already benefitting from the conversion are equipped with four interchangea ble battery packs providing a total of 140kWh.
These packs can quickly be removed from the excavators and be recharged elsewhere, as well as being easily swapped between different vehicles. In addition, each pack benefits from the
afore mentioned Thermal Management System meaning that it operates perfectly in all external conditions.
In addition, the battery packs operate on 800 Volts, providing high continuous and peak power abilities.
“The excavators are available for a total of eight hours. They can also perform the same tasks as their diesel operated ‘brothers’ – and do so at temperatures ranging from -10 to 35 degrees Celsius,” says Thijs van Hal, chief operating officer at E.C.E.
An additional area of reassurance is that the BMS monitors important parame ters such as cell voltages or temperatures and ensures the safe operation of the batteries. Webasto’s Vehicle Interface Box (VIB) plays a decisive role here: it acts as an efficient interface between several batteries and the vehicle and it combines the functions of a power distributor, BMS and backup system in one robust box. The result is a comprehensive modular battery system that is optimally tailored for use in construction vehicles. In addi tion, the vehicles meet the high require ments of the UN/ ECE-R100 standard as well as Euro VI. ■
With over 25 years of experience operating in the market, we know towing inside-out, and the everyday on-site challenges. Through listening to customer feedback and learning the main pain points of towing in the industry over the years, the Rhino plant trailer has been designed to ensure it will always get the job done, on any site, day-in, day-out.
Unlike many trailers that trace their DNA to a domestic or agricultural manufacturing heritage, the Towmate Trailers Rhino plant trailer is designed from the ground up, and embraces the harsh environments associated with construction and building work. The tough, galvanised steel chassis, heavy duty running gear and modular design of the trailer embody the durability and strength that you have come to expect from Towmate Trailers.
The trailer features a number of unique systems, designed to help make your fleet more efficient and cost effective and provide you with a greater return on your investment. It has five key points at its heart:
• Safety of the operator and other site users
• Security of your plant and machinery whilst on-site
• Flexibility to be able to load and carry a range of different machinery and equipment
• Ease of maintenance to ensure the downtime of your equipment is minimised
• A standard package designed to give you more and provide you with a pleasant towing experience
These points really encapsulate what the trailer is, and how we’ve listened to our customers to provide a trailer that
is built for purpose and maintenance friendly.
The Rhino plant trailer sports some of Towmate Trailers ground-breaking innovations, such as our pivot axle system, a system that prevents wheel and axle damage and ensures that your axles never become overloaded when travelling over rough and bumpy ground. We’ve also developed a unique strapless digger system called Load Sentry. An innovation which provides quick and effective loading and security of diggers onto your trailer, and paired with our double angled ramp, takes loading of the Rhino to a whole new level.
The Rhino is available in two different weight capacities; 2700kg and 3500kg, and with scope to customise your trailer specification with the features available, there is a Rhino plant trailer to suit every need. ■
exocet® Off Road Diesel Supreme protects engines from the problems associated with biodiesel and is designed specifically for use for off road vehicles.
Sectors and applications that are no longer able to use red diesel from 1st April 2022 include construction, mining and quarrying, ports, manufacturing, haulage (for transport refrigeration units on lorries), road maintenance, airport operations, plant hire, logistics and waste management.
It would be easy to conclude that the requirement to enhance fuel by using fuel additives is no longer necessary. However, it is very important to remember that biodiesel is used in all diesel with many unintended consequences for engine performance and maintenance.
exocet® Off Road Diesel Supreme is an advanced fuel additive designed to benefit both 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 deleterious effects of a higher FAME content (e.g. tendency for water pickup) and will prevent the agglomeration of biodiesel precipitates that can be the cause of filter blocking which results in fuel starvation in the engine.
The additive will counter any negative effects resulting from the introduction of the latest diesel specifications, the allowable FAME (biodiesel) content and will avoid increases in fuel consumption due to sticking injectors and wear.
Typical applications are construction equipment, airport vehicles and fork lift trucks.
The product is formulated from recognised fuel additive components and should not void an engine manufacturer’s warranty. In fact, many engine manufacturers now recommend the use of upgrade additives.
The unintended consequences of biodiesel in fuel on engine performance and maintenance have been experienced by many of our customers with images and samples submitted for testing.
Filter Blocking Tendency (FBT) is a parameter that is part of the EN590 fuel standard applied during the winter months. The maximum value is 2.54 (no units).
A fuel sample causing severe fuel filter blocking in the field was tested for FBT with and without exocet fuel additives. The results are in the table below.
The results show that the fuel causing severe fuel filter blocking in the field had an FBT value higher than the winter maximum in the EN590 fuel specification. Use of exocet Off Road Diesel Supreme additive brought the FBT down to well below the maximum limit of 2.54.
Our results demonstrate that a well formulated fuel additive, containing dispersants, will prevent agglomeration of precipitated FAME (biodiesel) particulates, keeping them small and dispersed in the fuel and able to flow through the fuel filters, thus maintaining equipment operability.
Importantly, FAST’s fuel additives also contain a deposit control additive to protect fuel injectors and keep them clean.
Exocet Off Road Diesel Supreme additive will treat and prevent filter blocking problems caused by precipitated biodiesel (FAME) particulates. FAST recommends the use of a 10μm fuel filter on all bulk storage tanks. ■
“Our oil is clean and we have no problems to speak of” is the response from a grin ning operator stood alongside 4 scrapped pumps, a scored cylinder and numerous used bearings lying in a pool of darkened oil..…
…..yet in this age of evolving ideas and technological trends, alongside keen budg eting ; reliability has become the answer as an increasing number of companies make the paradigm shift to a new accountability and better asset performance.
‘Reliability is about being able to rely on equipment to produce what it is scheduled to produce, when it is scheduled to produce it, for as long as it is scheduled to produce it with no interruptions.’
Oil is the lifeblood of a machines per formance and so maintaining proper oil cleanliness is, without doubt, critical to the success of any machine’s reliability.
Oil just gets dirty ! and Oil contamination can increase the rate of component wear and lead to premature failure – it is well known that oil contamination is linked to more than 75% of industrial equipment fail ures and more so in industrial plant where working conditions are so severe.
Even the best oils are vulnerable to con tamination… it is unavoidable but can be
minimised and controlled by simple and affordable measures.
Oil filter carts are used as offline filtration, so machinery can remain in operation while you filter its oil. And so, this nature of filtration is regarded as a more convenient and adaptable alternative to full-flow filtration… use it for transfers, or to address a mishap ; clean up after water ingress or cat astrophic failure or just to maintain ongoing levels of good cleanliness.
KLEENOIL is a cellulose depth filter that not only removes particulates –such as ferrous, oxides, airborne con taminants and fibres, but also water in the same easy, affordable application. Standard filters are, at best 10 micron – and that’s no criticism as they have to cope with system pressures that just can not be inhibited.
Yet using a KLEENOIL Cart offers oil cleansing to levels not normally easily achievable; The density of special ised cellulose fibres give strength and improved filter efficiency for the retention of very small particles to 3 micron level ; the dynamic oil film thickness in gears, roller bearings and servo valves are all less than 3 micron. Cellulose depth filters have excellent performance with a high dirt-holding
capacity and can maintain their capture efficiency even when fully loaded, as cellulose depth release few small particles under stress and pressure bursts. In addition, these absorb water from oil, all in one simple application.
KLEENOIL offer a mobile system encompassing not only the KLEE NOIL filter but also the Eclipse Micromag that removes ferrous particles down to submicron levels, this combination addresses all of the worst contaminants in your ma chine to keep its oil clean and dry.
A machine with constantly cleansed oil is going to far outperform its counterparts and the consequences of maintaining clean oil in opera tion can be financially rewarding, primarily in extending oil life and reducing component wear so offer ing the key to its reliability.
KLEENOIL manufacture and supply the finest, most affordable cellulose depth filtration to clean and maintain your lubricants to the finest cleanliness levels. ■ www.kleenoil.co.uk sales@kleenoil.co.uk
“Our oil is clean & we have no problems to speak of”
Kubota has launched a new tracking system portal to help construction equipment operators increase machine efficiency and security. The ‘Kubota Tracking System’ portal is available on all KX060-5, U56-5, U50-5 and KX0804a2 mini-excavators and can be accessed via a PC, laptop, tablet, or smartphone, meaning the data from a Kubota fleet can be seen anywhere at any time.
“As costs in other areas of construction rise, we are trying to develop new ways to help Kubota machine users understand where savings can be made and efficiency increased,” says Rob White, Division Manager, Construction at Kubota UK.
“Our Kubota Tracking System ensures operators can access all the data from their machines at the touch of a button, allowing them to make informed decisions. This includes considerations around servicing times and fleet movement, alongside additional benefits such as increased visibility of machines that helps with security.” The intuitive and user-friendly
portal shares informative data that helps users access operational performance and consider management decisions.
Enhanced security is provided as machine owners can view locations via GPS tracking to oversee the movement of each Kubota miniexcavator. Furthermore, geofencing is available, which allows users to designate specific areas of use for each machine, with the portal notifying operators should that machine leave the area. In addition, the portal provides alerts which show a machine’s faults enabling a fast response and resolution, thus minimising any downtime.
Increased productivity is achievable thanks to the constant review and analysis of real-time parameters of parts such as
machine work rate, operating times, actual operation, occupancy rate (as a percentage), idling time, DPF regeneration history, water and oil temperatures, and fuel consumption.
“Having access to all this real-time data provides the opportunity for Kubota excavator owners to really streamline their processes and adapt fluidly to any and all situations,” concludes Rob.
For more information on the portal, please visit: https://kuk.kubota-eu.com/ constructionmachinery/products/ kubota-tracking-system/ ■
BGG UK are celebrating another year of continued success with their market leading Stage V rental spec Fusteq and GX generators. These generators offer both extreme reliability and the durability of galvanised super silent canopies (53dBa @ 7 M). The Fusteq range boasts the fully patented VSi cooling system and runs at lower engine temperature and offers up to 15% fuel saving.
The immensely popular GX range has for many years been the first choice for rental companies who value the reliability and durability of these models. Smaller models are available to be fitted on our own trailers which are available in both single and double axle variants. With both models available from 10 to 1250 kVa there is a range of choices to suit every need.
Recent introductions include both hybrid and battery powered models (Versapack and Enerpack) recharged by generator, solar, wind or mains true versatility and green credentials
are fully maintained. Also recently launched is the Twinpack series available in either Fusteq or GX configuration and uniquely features two generators contained in one enclosure. These come in 20,30 or 40ft
options and range from 300 to 1320 kVA.
The lighting tower range includes the recently acquired SMC TL 90 Led and the Lion light Led hybrid models which are available in road tow and static
versions. Benefits with these models include 9.5 hours of battery runtime, recharge time of 2.5 hours (with lights on), ultra-low voltage (48 V DC increasing operator safety) and mast heights up to 9m.
This year will see the launch of a 100kVA hydrogen powered generator which will be shown for the first time at the Bauma 2022 exhibition. The stand number for visitors is A6 102. ■
BGG UK Ltd. Delta House, Tendring Heath, Essex. CO16 0BU
T: 01255 830355
E: info@bgguk.com
W: bgguk.com
POWR2 industrial energy storage solutions are changing the temporary power industry by solving some of the most common power headaches.
1. Reduce CO2 Emissions by up to 80%
Using a POWR2 POWRBANK in combination with a diesel generator can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 80% as compared to the generator alone. The integration of clean energy storage supports a sustainable vision and is something tangible that eco-conscious businesses can be proud to promote. The POWRBANK can be used with renewable energy sources for a 100% zero emission solution.
Even with improved noise reduction technology, diesel generators can cause unwanted noise. Stored energy is discharged completely silently. The POWRBANK allows for long quiet periods free from engine noise. When the POWRBANK is in use, you can even hold a conversation at a normal talking level while standing directly next to the unit.
Local noise ordinances may specify times when noise needs to be kept below a certain decibel. The
POWRBANK keeps power running around the clock while complying with public restrictions. A popular use case is keeping construction site security systems running uninterrupted with silent power all night long.
POWRBANK energy storage increases diesel generator asset life by significantly cutting engine hours. Every POWRBANK comes fitted with an energy control module (ECM). The ECM controls power generation, this allows a smaller generator to run at maximum efficiency to recharge the battery. A full charge can be reached in as little as 3 hours. That means, when power is required 24 hours a day, depending on the usage, the generator runtime can be shortened from 24 hours down to around just 3 hours per day.
Shorter engine runtimes decrease the required generator service frequency. Generator maintenance can be a hassle, especially if the generator is at a remote location for an extended period. Remote locations make maintenance tasks, including refueling, a logistics nightmare. Minimizing the required task frequency eases headaches and saves money. Plus, the POWRBANK’s stored energy allows generator maintenance to take place without losing power at the site.
POWRBANKs are used to run temporary offices, at events, on film sets, for EV charging, to power pumps, and much more. Visit POWR2.com for more application examples and to request a quote.
