Get a true edge on the job site with the Lippmann 1200j Heavy Duty Mobile Jaw Crusher. With a 1905mm deep jaw chamber, this go-to crusher tackles the toughest applications in mining and aggregates. Rely on the 1200j for smooth operation and maximum throughput as Lippmann engineers have optimized the material flow and jaw chamber design for high productivity.
News
In this issue, Clark Equipment reveals new Bobcat T-86 stock , EvoQuip unveils the new Bison 170 jaw crusher and Astec announces expansion plans. 6–8, 56–69
Features
Working across two sites in Far North Queensland, Branches Nursery found Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA) equipment was the perfect fit 10 -11
Founded in 1963, Don Clark Tractors has developed into a successful family-run business, spanning three generations and several locations across NSW and WA 12
Precisionscreen’s Scorpion Precoater is proving to be a popular machine on quarry sites across the east coast 14
Tricon Equipment highlights the diverse range of equipment available through its hire services 16
A hands-on, transparent and knowledgeable approach from Cater Equipment results in an “invaluable relationship” with Fleet Mine 18
AEA takes pride in its boutique service offering, with on the ground expertise and decision-making support 21
Onetrak’s Hidromek excavator ticks all the boxes for Sydney-based excavation company, Ruby Civil 22-23
Makin Traks founder Daz Scale outlines key tips for those seeking to purchase second hand machinery 38-40
Earthmovers & Excavators examines how standards from the Construction Industry Culture Taskforce are being applied to five pilot projects 42-44
Monash University is investigating how robotics can be used to process waste materials in construction and demolition 42-44
Editor
catherine.fitzpatrick@primecreative.com.au
Journalists
Darragh Bermingham,
Managing
Art Director
Industry voice
The Women in Industry Awards filled Sydney’s Doltone House Hyde Park Ballroom in June to honour women making a difference in their industries
CCF QLD’s Damian Long s peaks about the changes in the civil construction industry over the past three decades
NAWIC highlights its male allies campaign to encourage greater advocacy from men for women in the industry
Event news
All the highlights from the UK’s Hillhead 2024 , including machinery launches and demos Calendar of upcoming industry events
Regulars
Marketplace / DIY advertising Digger deals – hot classified deals! Private advertising coupon Index
Cutting-Edge Technology: Maximise efficiency with features like Load Sensing hydraulics for unmatched control.
450 kW Volvo Engine: Dominate any material with effortless digging force.
Safety & Operator Comfort: Experience a panoramic view and intuitive controls in a safe, ergonomic cab.
Volvo’s unique ECO Mode and an advanced electro-hydraulic system, achieving outstanding fuel efficiency.
COMPACT LOADER
Bobcat’s most powerful compact loader to hit the Australian market
Bobcat landing
Bobcat’s Australian dealer Clark Equipment is preparing to launch Bobcat’s most powerful compact track loader in Australia, as stock of the new T86 compact loader lands Down Under.
Clark Equipment revealed to Earthmovers & Excavators that the Bobcat T86 units will soon be available for Australian customers looking for a power compact track loader.
The 5.6-tonne machine uses a Stage V-compliant 3.4-litre Bobcat engine, producing 105b horsepower (78kW) at 2,600 rpm.
It features a tipping load of 4.9 tonnes, a travel speed of 8.9km/h or 17km/h, with a two-speed option and ground pressure of 4.8 psi.
Bobcat says the T86 compact track loader features an optimised weightto-horsepower ratio for a high level of
power and manoeuvrability.
The company adds that only Bobcat offers a compact track loader that delivers three hydraulic flow options – standard, high and super flow – in one machine, setting a new industry benchmark in performance and attachment versatility.
The T86 was among several new products showcased by Bobcat for
Astec expansion
Mineral Processing Solutions to distribute Astec’s fixed crushing and screening equipment to NSW
Distributor Mineral Processing Solutions (MPS) will bring Astec Australia’s fixed plant and equipment range to the aggregate and mining sectors in New South Wales, the manufacturer has announced.
The move is an extension of a 2021 agreement that saw MPS take on distribution of Astec Material Solutions’ products in WA, NT and SA, and to the mining sector in the eastern states.
Under the terms of the new agreement, MPS, an OPS Group company, will supply fixed plant crushing and screening equipment to the New South Wales aggregate and quarry industry.
“Astec and MPS have forged a strong partnership over the years – one that has
been of real benefit to our customers,” says Astec’s regional managing director, David Smale.
“The MPS team’s extensive local market knowledge and experience in mineral processing – supported by Astec’s innovative technologies and manufacturing capability – has made MPS the perfect partner to deliver outstanding products and service.”
MPS also distributes Astec Telestack mobile bulk materials handling equipment and Astec Breaker Technology International (BTI) products throughout Australia.
Local sales and service teams are in place, and new local support facilities in the NSW Hunter region have been
the first time at the Hillhead 2024 exhibition in the UK at the end of June, alongside the super-compact TL25.60 telehandler and the S650 skid-steer loader.
For more on the S650, see our story on page 64.
stocked with the latest Astec crushing and screening equipment.
“MPS taking our fixed plant into the aggregate industry in New South Wales is the first step in what we expect to be a continuing expansion, with the company moving into the Queensland and Victorian markets over the next few years,” Smale says.
“For our existing quarrying customers, little will change. Through MPS, they will still have access to the complete range of Astec’s industry-leading crushing and screening equipment, plus the extensive knowledge and experience of the MPS sales and service teams.
“I’m delighted to be making this announcement today, and look forward to working alongside MPS as they continue to support our customers in building the infrastructure of Australia,” he says.
The Bobcat T86 in action. Image: Bobcat
Compact Deere
John Deere has introduced five new P-Tier models to its skid steer and compact track loader offering, as well as three brand new attachments
Five new P-Tier models have been added to John Deere’s compact equipment lineup, including the 330 and 334 skid steer loaders (SSLs) and the 331, 333 and 335 compact track loaders (CTLs).
John Deere says the new models boast a redesigned one-piece cabin, an overall increase in operating power and enhanced technology features.
The new P-Tier models’ cabs are sealed, pressurised and isolated from the frame, which means outside noise is lowered and the cab interior is protected from external elements.
Hands-free Bluetooth calling is now available on the new models.
Two new technology capabilities make their debut with the rollout of these models, John Deere says, including attachment manager and surround view.
Attachment manager is available as an upgrade on the 330, 331 and 333 machines and as standard on the 334 and 335 models. The company says this technology takes the guesswork out of determining attachment performance parameters by enabling preprogrammed flow and pressure for John Deere attachments.
Available on all models, surround view technology provides a birdseye-view image to the operator to assist with navigating jobsites.
The P-Tier 334 skid steer loader with the new cold planer attachment.
John Deere
When putting the machines in reverse, the display switches to the rearview camera. This technology also integrates two boom-mounted cameras that provide a view of the sides and rear of the machine.
New attachments
The introduction of the new CTLs and SSLs also comes with the unveiling of three new attachments, including the MK76 and MH72D mulching heads and the CP40G cold planer.
The CP40G cold planer is powered by Wirtgen Group milling machine and cutting technology and provides in-cab controls. John Deere says it can slide horizontally from left to right, for ultra-capable control, and is designed for easy pick replacement to boost uptime. It is compatible with the 333, 334 and 335 P-Tier machines.
Designed to tackle clearing applications, the MK76 and MH72D mulching heads are also compatible with the 333, 334 and 335 P-Tier models.
With a knife style head ideal for fibrous vegetation, John Deere says these attachments produce the ‘finest chip’ of all its mulchers.
GRADING
A set of five new grader beams for use on Cat excavators gives operators the ability to grade sites using their existing machinery
New Cat grading beams
Caterpillar has released a set of new grader beams for its tiltrotators, allowing contractors to take on grading and compaction work using excavators. Available in Australia, the new beams enable 360˚ bidirectional and 40˚ left-and-right rotation of the grading beam to increase attachment versatility.
The grading beams’ mechanically adjustable roller – from 10mm below frame to 20mm above – allows for flexibility in the level of compaction based on material type. Preventing material from sticking to the roller, the adjustable roller scraper allows the attachment to be used with clay, silt and other sticky materials.
Available in five widths from 1,250mm to 3,000mm, Cat grading beams can be used for a range of applications, from grading sidewalks to larger site prep. The design’s large top opening with solid extended sides and side plates allow the beam to spread, compact and grade materials quickly and effectively, Caterpillar says.
Highly abrasion resistant, Hardox 500 wear protection at the bottom of the beam protects the frame for long-life operation. The beam’s welded frame increases structural rigidity, while additional support plates on the heavy-duty frame extend beam strength and overall service life.
Compatible with Cat Grade technology via the Cat tiltrotator attachment, tool recognition automatically confirms the identity of the attachment to ensure all settings – pressure, flow and dimensions –are correct, allowing operators to quickly get to work.
Standard Cat PL161 attachment technology provides simple attachment tracking across all worksites, reducing the chance of a lost grading beam and assisting with maintenance and replacement. The PL161 integrates into VisionLink for fleet management from a single mobile device.
Image:
Caterpillar has released new grading beams. Image: Caterpillar
The 280 SM(i) cuts limestone with a uniaxial compressive strength of 110 MPa at a rate of 400 tons/hour. Image: Wirtgen
Rock on
Wirtgen says the new cutting drum enables cost-efficient extraction of hard rocks
Wirtgen Group will showcase a new cutting drum for surface miners at MINExpo 2024, which the company says enables cost-efficient extraction of hard rocks with uniaxial compressive strengths of over 100 MPa.
The Cross-Application Miner 260 SX(i) speeds up infrastructure projects by eliminating drilling and blasting, facilitating stable embankment construction, in-situ grading, and material recycling.
The new cutting drum features HT14 toolholders and a redesigned cutting geometry, enhancing the extraction of materials like limestone, gypsum and anhydrite, according to Wirtgen Group.
The company says its Wirtgen 280 SM(i) Surface Miner successfully used the new cutting drum in a limestone quarry in Louisville, Nebraska, eliminating the need for drilling and blasting.
Visitors to MINExpo 2024 can engage with Wirtgen Group experts on deployment, project assessment, machine recommendations, cost estimation, and financing solutions.
The MINExpo 2024 will take place from September 24 to 26 in the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Bison crusher
EvoQuip reveals the latest addition to its jaw crusher range - the Bison 170
Available to order now, EvoQuip’s new Bison 170 jaw crusher is the latest addition to its jaw crusher range.
With its 700x500mm jaw chamber and diesel-electric drive technology, the company says the Bison 170 is a smart choice for customers aiming to optimise their operations while meeting both economic and environmental goals.
The Bison 170 utilises a fuel-efficient diesel electric drive system, with an onboard generator being used to power the plant.
It can also be plugged in and driven from an external power source such as mains power, which allows for zero emissions processing.
This enables customers to meet regulatory requirements and support their own sustainability goals.
The engine and power unit can be removed completely, allowing the plant to be powered from an external source with no combustion engine on board.
The Bison 170’s electric drive enables customers to run in reverse for asphalt recycling and also provides a unblock/jog function to clear a blockage.
EvoQuip has added the Bison 170 to its jaw crusher range. Image: EvoQuip
Weighing 17,000kg, the machine has a hopper capacity of two cubic metres, an integrated pre-screen for removal of fines, a high capacity toggle jaw and a CSS range of 35mm to 100mm, as well as a max feed size of 550mm x 400mm x 650mm.
It also features a 700mm wide belt and 2.6m discharge height as well as impact bars at the jaw discharge point and an overband magnet.
Engine options for the Bison 170 include a CAT C4.4 70kW constant speed T3a c/w 88kVA generator or a CAT C3.6 70kW constant speed stage V/T4F dual cert c/w 88kVA generator.
“We are delighted to add the Bison 170 to our jaw crushing range,” says Andrew Armstrong, Product Manager for EvoQuip.
“With a potential output of up to 110 tph and low fuel consumption, the Bison 170 is a high performing, environmentally friendly machine that aligns with the EvoQuip Think Green, Think EvoQuip sustainability campaign.”
Perfect plant
Working across two sites in Far North Queensland, Branches Nursery found Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA) equipment was the perfect fit
The team behind a horticultural business in Far North Queensland says equipment from Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA) is enhancing its operational efficiency and helping it prepare for future growth.
Branches Nursery recently took delivery of its third Toyota Huski 4SDK4 Skid Steer Loader and is consulting TMHA on the supply of upgraded forklifts for its two sites in Cairns and Port Douglas.
With an inventory of 50,000 plants across 150 species, Branches sells about 50 per cent of its stock outside the region, largely in Brisbane and on the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, but also further north fulfilling government contracts in areas like Thursday Island.
The other fifty per cent is sold locally to landscapers who are working hard to keep up with demand in a region where the population has doubled from 80,000, when Oscar Michel started his business in the 1990s, to more than 170,000.
Cairns Regional Council forecasts a population of more than 240,000 by 2050, a growth that Branches Nursery and TMHA are both keen to service, with the dealer opening a dedicated branch in Cairns last year.
“Previously we’d been relying on remote service from Townsville 350kms away,” Branches’ principal
Oscar Michel says.
“Now we not only have access to local service, but we also have a business manager who understands our requirements.”
TMHA area sales manager Paul Allen says Branches Nursery is a very important client for the company.
“Operating in Far North Queensland comes with a unique set of challenges which are best met by a close understanding of local conditions and requirements.”
Oscar Michel agrees. “We were operating with machinery too large for our efficient use,” he says.
“Now we have right-sized machines to maximise the operation. The Huski skid steer loader is able to properly manoeuvre within our rows
and purpose-built implements are easily interchangeable between each machine.”
Row width is particularly important in Branches’ nursery operation.
The Huski 4SDK4 is just 900mm wide, the smallest of Toyota’s six model range. However, it has an operating capacity of 320kg, which is more than sufficient for the nursery’s intricate requirements.
“Easy changing between implements from auger attachments to a range of buckets reduces downtime and maximises the ability to fulfil customer orders on tight turn around,” says Branches’ Cairns manager, Sebastian Abrue.
“We call on the Huskis to do everything from levelling new sites to crushing rock, preparing potting mix on a weekly basis, and most importantly transplanting trees as part of their growth program.
“Reliability and versatility have been a major part of our experience with the Huski,” Abrue adds.
“We’ve rarely had issues and to
Branches Nursery principal Oscar Michel with his recently delivered third Huski skid steer loader.
Images: TMHA
Oscar Michel behind the controls of his
skid steer loader have service now available in Cairns increases our confidence.”
Branches Nursery has earned a reputation for innovation not only in horticulture but in logistics.
It has worked with a local transport company to efficiently move its plant stock more than 1,600km to southeast Queensland while backloading the same trucks with soil, potting mix, and nutrients essential to future growth.
The efficient movement of plants and materials within Branches’ two sites is an ongoing part of conversation between the company and TMHA.
Michel and his wife Kate started family-owned Branches from a 1.6hectare greenfield site in Kewarra Beach, now an exclusive suburb of Cairns where they continue to maintain their headquarters.
In 2018, the couple expanded to an additional 15-hectare site at Mowbray outside Port Douglas to take advantage of less expensive
land prices and to give their son Nick, 24, a grounding in the business.
Nick manages Port Douglas while specialist Abrue, now 10 years with Branches, runs the operations in Cairns.
“We had intended to consolidate in Mowbray, but COVID-19 demand highlighted how the two sites could work to complement each other,” Michel said.
Equitable allocation of machinery and staff between the two sites, on an as-needed basis, formed a
substantial component of the costbenefit advantages to support the continuation of both sites.
As Branches Nursery continues to grow, the company believes the partnership with TMHA ensures they have the reliable support and equipment needed for sustained success and innovation in the horticultural industry.
To find out more about the TMHA range, call 1800 425 438 or visit toyotamaterialhandling.com.au
Toyota Huski 4SDK4
The Toyota Huski 4SDK4 skid steer loader in action at Branches Nursery
Parts parcelled
Providing OEM and aftermarket parts and servicing across mining, agriculture and construction, Don Clark Tractors is going from strength to strength
Serving everyone from sole owner/ operators to some of the world’s largest mining and construction companies, Don Clark Tractors has seen nothing but growth over the past five years, according to company director Brett Clark.
First established by Brett’s father, Don, in 1963 to provide service and maintenance support to the local earthmoving industry, DCT built a strong customer base on the back of his knowledge and experience in the industry.
In 1984 DCT expanded, with the beginning of the parts division which today consists of a multi-million dollar computer-controlled inventory that numbers 100,000 line items.
DCT also boasts warehousing facilities of over 4,000 square metres between strategically placed warehouses in Castlereagh, Dubbo and Orange in NSW as well as Kalgoorlie in WA.
DCT also took ownership of a new site in Canning Vale in Perth, WA in early July, with a parts centre now established there.
Today, DCT offers parts and services to companies across mining, agriculture and construction, and they can undertake repairs and component rebuilds.
Spanning three generations and still family owned and operated – four of Don’s grandchildren are now actively involved in managing the company - DCT sources, manufactures and supplies OEM quality aftermarket and replacement parts with a quality and life equal to the original part.
Brett Clark speaks to Earthmovers
& Excavators about DCT’s history, the quality of services the company offers and the growing demand for these services.
First, Brett shares the tale of how his father came to start his very own business more than 60 years ago.
“It’s an interesting story,” he says.
“He did an apprenticeship as a fitter machinist.
“He then went from working on railway train components [and] he ended up on the Snowy Mountains Scheme and Maralinga in South Australia.”
The Snowy Mountains HydroElectric Scheme was one of the most complex engineering projects in the world, involving 100,000 workers and the construction of seven power stations, 16 dams, 80 kilometres of aqueducts, 145 kilometres of tunnels and 1,600 kilometres of roads and train tracks.
“He then came back to Sydney and was the service manager for the International Tractor Company,” Brett adds.
A glimpse inside the DCT facilities in
“That’s when he started servicing equipment. He worked for a local contractor, J.K Williams, and then went out on his own.”
DCT began life as a service and maintenance company and, to this day, it provides support to many mining, farming and earthmoving companies.
The DCT service division operates out of purpose-built workshops in Castlereagh and Orange NSW, while its Dubbo and Kalgoorlie operations are parts-only.
Both workshops have the welding, boring, milling and machining capabilities, as well as the correct tooling and personnel to complete everything from a simple hydraulic cylinder repair to a complete machine rebuild – with all the technicians experienced in working on Caterpillar machines.
“We don’t do any field service work, it’s all in-house workshop repairs,” Brett explains.
“Bring a machine or the component, and we’ll repair it.
“99 per cent of our business focuses around Caterpillar,” he adds.
With its 1984 expansion into the parts market, DCT today sources parts from manufacturers all around the world.
“We do engine parts, power train, transmission and final drives, hydraulics, undercarriage and ground engaging tools,” Brett says.
“We’ve seen nothing but growth in the past five years, we can’t complain about that.”
DCT’s dedication to sourcing quality products is what makes it stand out from the crowd.
“We go out of our way looking for quality,” Brett says.
“We’re not priced buyers. We’re looking for an OEM equivalent product.”
With the company experiencing a growing demand for its services, Brett didn’t rule out further expansions in the future.
“Never say never,” he says.
For more information, visit donclark.com.au.
Brett Clark at work in DCT’s headquarters in Castlereagh.
Castlereagh
Scorpion sting
Precisionscreen’s Scorpion Precoater offers quarry applications a cost-effective solution that can precoat aggregate in various sizes
A top-selling unit over the past year, Precisonscreen’s Scorpion Precoater is increasingly appearing on quarry sites on the east coast of Australia.
Fully designed and built at Precisionscreen’s Brisbane factory, the stationary machine can precoat aggregates in many volumes –depending on requirements.
Designed in a similar shape to a Scorpion, the name was an obvious choice for Precisionscreen’s chief operating officer Jonny McMurtry.
He emphasises that the Scorpion Precoater is a highly cost-effective solution, due to a combination of its size and running costs.
“It’s got a Cat 2.2 engine, which is economical for fuel, so the precoater is extremely efficient,” he says.
“Precoating can be expensive, it’s important to make sure you’re doing it efficiently and effectively.”
Compared to other precoating units, McMurtry says the Scorpion is smaller in size, meaning it doesn’t incur the costs of transporting larger road-towable units.
Suited to quarry-based applications, the machine is an adaptation of Precisionscreen’s Scorpion Reclaimer 804, that works in conjunction with the company’s precoat conveyor (an adapted SM450 with an on-board precoat chute).
McMurtry says the Scorpion unit precoats material after de-dusting takes place on the 8x4 twin deck screen box. Clean aggregate is then carried away from the plant via the conveyor. Before the discharge point on the conveyor, aggregate material triggers a gate on the running belt that sends a signal to the machine to activate the diesel precoat chute and pump.
“Strategically placed precoat nozzles go to work on coating the stone evenly which ensure maximum efficiency of the precoat material with minimal wastage,” McMurtry says.
“Once material stops travelling on the Scorpion Precoater, the SM450 stacker belt gate swings back closed and disengages the precoat pump.”
The precoat tumbler chute eliminates the need for oil-resistant belts, McMurtry says, and quickly and effectively precoats aggregates to the operator’s need.
Materials that have a precoat mix can be pumped into the chute and then the chute tumbles the material into a precoat liquid.
By doing this, McMurtry says materials that are laid down for roadbuilding will be bound and glued together more effectively –holding it together for longer.
“We’re finding more and more regional precoating campaigns across the country, different shires and regions are looking to renew some of their country roads,” he says.
“Regional quarries might not have access to some of the larger bulk precoating equipment, but with our Scorpion unit they can do smaller campaigns by themselves – which is much more affordable.”
Precisionscreen also offers mobile units of its Scorpion Precoater, in which the stationary unit utilises the same precoating hydraulic pump set up.
Modifications
Beyond being fully built and designed in Australia, a key point of difference of the Scorpion Precoater is the ability for it to be modified.
Precisionscreen’s Scorpion Precoater works with the company’s conveyors. Image: Precision Screen
Precisionscreen has scope to adapt and modify the unit based on customer needs. From the chute or hopper being extended, to altered conveyor speeds, to different types and volume of precoat, the Brisbanebased business can make it happen.
“We can adapt our precoat kits to work with any size, shape and length of conveyor,” McMurtry says.
“The precoat pump hydraulic drive kit can couple up with many of our other imported machines as well.”
Depending on which conveyor is required, Precisionscreen will modify and create a different size or shape of tumbler chute so it can fit on that conveyor.
For customers wanting to accurately record how much precoat is being added into their material, the business has the capability to modify or install precoating recording kits on existing equipment.
“Recording kits enable customers to know exactly how much precoat liquid is being used, which makes it more cost-effective – especially with the current high price of diesel and emulsion,” he says.
“This also means they can ensure that the right volume is being used for the product as well as preventing liquid being wasted.”
McMurtry says the Scorpion unit can be particularly effective for customers that have short or medium-term contracts for precoating material.
Compact in nature, the machine runs by itself, with McMurtry saying it is usually operated by one worker.
“It’s a quite a self-sufficient machine and is easily maintained, so again it’s very cost-effective.”
“All our precoat machines, whether mobile or quarry-based, are a cost-effective way for precoating aggregate, as opposed to introducing a large, fixed plant.”
For more information on the Scorpion Precoater, visit precisionscreen.com.au
Korean made track link assemblies
DCF track link assemblies meet or exceed OEM specifications
The DCF Group has been a leading supplier in the market since 1955, producing Undercarriage Parts for Excavators and Bulldozers. DCF has a worldwide reputation for strong reliable products at a competitive price. Such as crankshafts, track group assembly, segments, sprocket and many more.
Gear up
Hire today and work smarter tomorrow with Tricon Equipment’s diverse range of equipment, through its hire services
In fast-paced industries like construction, civil engineering, mining, agriculture, transportation and quarrying, having the right equipment is crucial for success.
As an experienced company, Tricon Equipment understands the critical need for reliability and flexibility in these sectors.
Its extensive range of equipment hire services is meticulously designed to ensure its customers’ projects run smoothly and efficiently, regardless of scale or duration.
Whether customers require a powerful Terex MDS M515 Trommel for efficient screening, a versatile Superior Telestacker for stockpiling, or a robust Lippmann 300c Cone Crusher for crushing operations, Tricon Equipment offers a diverse and well-maintained fleet to meet
customer needs.
Tricon says its solutions allow businesses to swiftly deploy specialised equipment, minimising downtime and maximising productivity.
Cailean Woods, sales manager at Tricon, says that opting for equipment hire from Tricon can alleviate the financial strain of equipment ownership and maintenance.
This strategic choice allows customers to redirect capital towards critical aspects of their projects, whether they’re expanding operations, exploring new sites, or addressing specific operational challenges.
“Our hire solutions provide financial predictability, enabling precise budgeting and efficient
MDS M515 Trommel is available through Tricon’s equipment hire services.
project timeline management,” Woods says.
The business strives to maintain a superior standard across its whole fleet by performing regular detailed maintenance and inspections on each piece of equipment.
“This ensures all units deliver peak performance in demanding environments,” Woods says.
“Renting from Tricon guarantees that your equipment operates at its best throughout the rental period, minimising the risk of downtime and operational disruptions.”
For more information on Tricon Equipment’s comprehensive hire services, visit www.triconequipment.com.au or contact the business on 1300 859 885.
The Terex
Image: Tricon Equipment
top dogDirt in the
Bred Toyota tough, Huski skid steer loaders are the perfect mix of performance, reliability and durability. Developed and tested in Australia, Huski features best in show strength, manoeuvrability and driver comfort, and can handle operating loads from 320kg to a whopping 900kg.
Best of all Huski skid steer loaders are backed by Toyota’s trusted reputation for delivering quality equipment and loyal after sales support. So if you’re looking to put your business at the head of the pack, you can’t go past a Huski. Australia’s Top Dog in the Dirt.
Invaluable relationship
Cater Equipment’s experience, knowledge and hands-on approach is a major selling point for customers
Cater Equipment is a family-owned and operated dealership that provides a range of used heavy plant equipment, with a speciality in Volvo equipment for customers across Australia, particularly for businesses and projects within the civil construction and mining industries.
With decades of experience and worldwide connections, Cater provides a professional and reliable solution for all machine sourcing, purchasing and selling needs.
For those seeking to purchase equipment, Cater Equipment provides tailored solutions, with a focus on sourcing high-quality, lowhour used machines.
For those looking to sell, Cater helps save time and effort by taking charge of the entire process, aiming to recoup the highest possible investment and ensuring the machinery will be put to good use elsewhere.
Four years ago, Fleet Mine turned to Cater for its Volvo machinery needs and, having enjoyed an “invaluable” relationship since, the company has not turned back.
Fleet Mine, a sister company of the PJL Group, provides underground hardrock mining equipment for the industry.
“We’ve always found Sam very good to deal with, very level headed,” says Jeff King, who was then general manager of Fleet Mine.
“He takes pride in [what he does]he wouldn’t sell me a machine that he wouldn’t operate himself.”
King highlights Cater’s product knowledge, from both his time at Volvo and operating his own company, as a major selling point when it comes to dealing with the Queensland dealer.
“We’re an underground mining business so we hire underground mining machines,” he says.
“Sam’s knowledge about the right machines to buy, particularly from overseas, and his ability to source machines from overseas, his knowledge about what countries to get them from, what countries to avoid - all of that known and learned knowledge is invaluable to us.”
King also emphasises Cater’s drive to find solutions for his clients, something that came to the forefront during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Sam’s been very good at helping us source machines, even during the COVID drama,” he says.
“He was willing to go out of his way to find ships coming out of Europe.
“We had to float machines up to China because there was a direct route from Europe to China, then come to Australia.
“He’s always finding a solution for us and that goes a long way.”
As well as providing a dedicated and smooth delivery service, Cater always ensures the equipment itself arrives as advertised.
“The equipment is always in good condition as well, it’s always delivered as described,” King says.
“Sam will always point out if it’s got new tyres or a crack in the
Fleet Mine’s Volvo CE A30G tip truck, which the company turned into a cement truck, was sourced and delivered by Cater Equipment.
windscreen or whatever - he’s very open, honest and transparent with everything.
Recently, Fleet Mine took delivery of two pieces of Volvo Construction Equipment machinery - an A30G tip truck and an L120H large wheel loader - both sourced by Cater Equipment.
“They were excellent, exactly what we purchased,” King says.
“The A30G is the one we turn into a cement truck - it works really well for that.
“The machine presented very well, very clean and tidy.”
The fact that Cater Equipment is a small, family-run business, and that Sam Cater is hands-on, makes the dealer stand out, according to King.
“I think it is the fact that you’re dealing with a smaller company,” he says.
“So you don’t get caught up in the bureaucracy of talking to procurement or talking to transportation coordinator and all that - you deal straight with Sam.
“And Sam’s all over the entire transaction, from taking the deposit, sourcing the machine, transport, delivery, the whole nine yards - he’s got his finger on the pulse the whole way through.”
King is keen to emphasise Cater’s product knowledge and transparency, as well as his willingness to find a solution for his client, whatever their need might be.
“You know, I’ve looked at other machines with other dealers, and Sam would actually give me his input,” he says.
“He’ll tell me, yeah, that’s a good buy, even though it’s not going through his business.
“That’s a very open and honest, transparent relationship.
“When you’ve got that sort of relationship with somebody that you can have that conversation with - it’s great to have.”
For more information, go to www.caterequipment.com.au or call +61 0439 555 973.
On-site expertise
AEA takes pride in its boutique service offering, with on the ground expertise and decision-making support
With the financial year coming to an end last month, Australian Equipment Auctions (AEA) founder Brad Allender reflects on a busy period for the asset advisory and management consultant firm - and predicts a busy year ahead.
Allender who has around 45 years’ experience in the industry, founded AEA in 2000. He previously worked as managing director of JW Styles and with DoveBid.
Rather than expanding their services or staff after a busy year, AEA is determined to stay “boutique” to ensure it continues offering a high quality service to its clients.
“We’re going to be busy [this year],” Allender says.
“But we’re not going to expand or anything like that - we’re going to stay the way we are.
“We’re a boutique company - we don’t work for everyone. We go out and do the job, the guys pick things up and we go home,” he adds.
Located in Victoria, AEA provides expert asset management consultancy, valuations, auction services, rectification, transport and storage services, with comprehensive secure nationwide yard and storage facilities in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Hobart, Perth, Darwin and Albury / Wodonga.
Allender highlights a strong team at AEA, including long-time staff and casual workers, describing them as “very good at what they do”.
In fact, keeping things “boutique” is one of AEA’s major strengths, Allender explains, as it ensures clients get all the company’s available expertise on the ground.
“We’re a boutique company - we
go out to do a particular job and it’s a case of all hands on deck to do that job,” he says.
“Anyone that gets us to do a job, everything goes through me.
“If they have any questions, they can ring me and I’ll answer their questions there and then on the spot.
“If a decision has to be made, I can make it there and then on the spot.
“I don’t have to worry about going to managers or anything like that to get decisions made - it’s on the ground decision-making.”
Allender adds that this ability to provide on-the-ground expertise and decision making at every project is just one other aspect that makes AEA stand out from the crowd.
The company boasts a broad knowledge base that includes plant, equipment and transport assets across all industry sectors and specialises in on–site valuation and auction services, with over 140 years of combined experience in the industry.
AEA provides clients with professional, accredited valuations, online auction sales, private treaty sales, managed tender processes, management services, consultancy services, rectification facilities and transport services support.
Some sales projects recently undertaken by AEA include major on-site auctions to dispose of earthmoving, mining, transport and surplus assets held on behalf of various blue chip Queensland and Australian power, energy, transport and mining companies.
AEA also recently conducted large transport and logistics, earthmoving equipment and surplus assets auctions on behalf of some
of Australia’s premier transport and logistics and construction companies. This included the dedicated auction of the transport fleet of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest cattle and livestock transporter.
Auctions and Valuations
Whether you need an individual asset sold or a complete facility or fleet, AEA will evaluate your assets to provide a range of options for sale, aimed at ensuring maximum return.
AEA offers auction services in machinery, plant and equipment, transport, earthmoving, mining and more.
In terms of valuations, AEA offers its clients accurate, concise and realistic values. The company is happy to provide a valuation of an individual item or an entire facility of plant and equipment and inventory.
“We’re big in valuations and auctions,” Allender says, highlighting a slew of recent projects, including the Viking Group recovery, valuations at the Crown Casino and working with major mining companies.
AEA’s focus is on big machinery, the company’s managing director explains.
“We only do trucks and earthmoving here - we don’t do pots and pans or any of that sort of stuff,” he says. “It’s only earthmoving, trucks and mining. Most of our work is in liquidation,” he adds.
Restructuring services
AEA has seen increased demand for its reconstruction services, Allender explains, as some companies struggle to access financial help amid a changing economic landscape.
“We do a lot of restructuring work to where we refinance people and that sort of stuff,” he says.
“At the moment, a lot of our work is restructuring - some companies have a problem on their hands.
For more information, go to wwwaustralianequipment auctions.com
An AEA auction event in Adelaide on behalf of Gulf RTA
Hidromek excavator ticks all the boxes for Ruby Civil
After carrying out extensive research on the best excavators available, Sydney-based contractor Tim McMurtrie turned to Hidromek and its HMK145 excavator to get the performance and stability he required
Ruby Civil, an excavation company in Sydney, provides services to commercial and residential clients. Most of its work includes subdivisions, residential work, remediation projects, small rural works, sand and sandstone work and horse arenas.
Ruby Civil owner Tim McMurtrie recently purchased a Hidromek HMK145 excavator from national Australian dealer Onetrak. After
researching the available equipment and taking the machine on for a trial period, he decided it was the one for him.
McMurtrie has worked on everything from 1.7-tonne to 50-tonne excavators, and currently owns a positrack loader, an eight-tonne excavator and tipper truck in addition to the new Hidromek HMK145 excavator.
Previously unfamiliar with
Hidromek as a brand, McMurtrie began his research online and watched a YouTube video of Onetrak conducting a walkthrough of the Hidromek HMK230 grader, which grabbed his interest.
Reaching out to the Onetrak sales team at Moorebank, Sydney for more information, McMurtrie discussed the requirements of a new project he was quoting for. At the time, he was
Images: : Onetrak
With the Hidromek HMK145 proving itself as a rental machine, Ruby Civil brought one in as a permanent member of the fleet
The HMK145 impressed with its handling and performance
hiring another excavator that had been giving him trouble and turned to Onetrak to find a more reliable option.
With the Hidromek HMK145 put forward as a solution to get Ruby Civil moving again, McMurtrie decided to take it on for a trial period after being offered an attractive rental price by Onetrak.
Impressive performance
One of the initial factors that attracted McMurtrie to the Hidromek HMK145 was the Isuzu engine – the same as his other machinery.
He says that, initially, he did have reservations about the size of the excavator and its ability to handle the attachments he used on a regular basis, but hoped the hydraulic setup could handle the attachments and that the short tail design and counterweight would provide the stability and high lifting capacity he was looking for.
During the trial, McMurtrie really put the excavator to the test. The site he was working on was particularly challenging, with extremely steep ground, and he was required to utilise all of his attachments, including a large hammer and numerous buckets.
He was pleasantly surprised with the way the Hidromek handled these conditions and performed, especially with its stability on the steep slopes.
McMurtrie says that he found the excavator to be well engineered and easy to manoeuvre, with a lot of thought put into the design of the hydraulics.
Interior maintenance
It was important to McMurtrie that the interior of the machine could be easily maintained. He says that the mats were easy to remove and the
interior came up well with a quick wipe down of Armour All, with the cab of the HMK145 also being roomy and comfortable.
“I have driven most of the brands in this weight range and while the cab didn’t have the highest specifications, it had more than was needed and was easily navigated and used,” McMurtrie says.
The decision to purchase a new HMK145 excavator of his own was an easy one for McMurtrie after the success of the rental trial. Having received his new machine in January, the air conditioning was put to the test, and he says he is extremely happy with how it performed.
He says that people ask him all the time about the excavator and where it is from, and although some say that it is an expensive machine, McMurtrie doesn’t believe they are comparing apples with apples.
While the HMK145 is listed as a 14.5-tonne excavator, it actually weighs in at 16.8 tonnes and, size-wise, it performs above its competition in the 14.5-tonne category. Due to its size, it is also easily transported by truck, which helps McMurtrie provide better value pricing to his customers.
On one job he was required to relocate two water tanks for a customer over the course of a weekend. Despite having space
constraints to contend with, the HMK145 had the precision and power to successfully complete the job, and far quicker than the week it would have taken using a smaller machine.
With McMurtrie able to complete the job in a day, this saved time and money and meant the customer was reconnected in time to capture a looming rain event.
Building relationships
McMurtrie really likes the fact he has great relationships with the sales, rental and support staff at Onetrak’s Moorebank and Hallam branches.
“All the staff have been awesome,” he says.
“They treat me with respect as a small business owner, they are flexible and it doesn’t feel like I’m just a number.”
He recalls Onetrak rental manager Rhodes Cousland telling him at the start of the process: “Tim, once you drive this machine, like many of our customers, I would be surprised if you didn’t come away wanting it!”
Turns out, he was right.
Onetrak is the official dealer for Hidromek equipment in Australia. Visit www.onetrak.com.au or call 1300 727 520 to get in touch with the Onetrak team.
Metso has invested in a new distribution facility in Chile and a new technology centre in Finland
Metso has opened a new distribution facility in Chile and has also invested $241m (€150m) in a new technology centre in Finland.
The company’s new distribution centre in Vina del Mar, Chile, has been opened to further improve its delivery performance and customer service.
The new centre will replace the unit that served the area and will considerably increase Metso’s capability to deliver equipment, spare and wear parts and components, Metso says.
The inauguration ceremony was held on June 6, 2024.
“The new distribution centre has a significantly larger storage capacity than our previous warehouse and it will strengthen the availability of critical spare and wear parts close to our customers in Chile and other countries in South America,” Metso South American president Eduardo Nilo says.
The facility operates primarily on renewable energy and utilises sustainable packaging solutions, including returnable packaging and lighter plywood alternatives.
The distribution centre is located close to Metso operations in Concón, where the company has a modern rubber and Poly-Met factory and has implemented a unique recycling solution for its Megaliner, Poly-Met and rubber liners.
“An efficient and optimised distribution centre network will increase availability, improve customer service and decrease CO2 emissions,” Metso senior vice president global logistics operations Markku Eronen says.
Technology centre
As well as its Chile development, Metso has invested $241m (€150m) in a new technology centre in Tampere, Finland, which will eventually house all of the company’s operations.
The material processing equipment manufacturer’s Lokomotion Technology Center site covers 23 hectares in the Tampere suburb of Lahdesjärvi and will host over 900 Metso employees.
Metso will gradually move its current operations in Hatanpää, Tampere, to the new site.
The investment in the first phase is about $241 million (€150 million), spread over three years, with construction expected to commence this July.
This will include assembly and testing facilities for the manufacturing of mobile crushers
A computer generated image of what Metso’s new technology centre will look like upon completion
and storage facilities for components and materials used in aggregates equipment.
Production of Lokotrack trackmounted crushing plants is scheduled to start in Lahdesjärvi during the third quarter of 2027.
According to the plan, the crusher factory, research centre, maintenance workshop and office facilities will move from Hatanpää to Lahdesjärvi at a later stage. The new technology centre is expected to be fully completed by the mid-2030s.
Metso states that the goal of the Lokomotion project is to develop and build a new modern technology centre that will enable sustainable manufacturing operations.
“Tampere is a very important location for Metso and with our long presence in Lokomo, we are also an important part of the city’s industrial history,” Metso aggregates president Markku Simula says.
“We are very pleased to be able to implement the Lokomotion project, which is a significant project for Metso and will allow us to continue our operations in the area in a new state-of-the-art technology centre and production facility.
“The project involves a number of partners and will have a significant employment impact in the area.”
Images: Metso
Metso’s new state of the art distribution centre in Vina del Mar, Chile.
Award-winning women
The Women in Industry Awards filled Sydney’s Doltone House Hyde Park Ballroom in late June. Earthmovers & Excavators takes a look at the winners and the difference they are making in their respective industries
The Women in Industry Awards (WIIA) continues to celebrate the outstanding achievements of women i n t raditionally male-dominated industrial sectors such as construction, m in ing, engineering, manufacturing and transport and logistics.
The Awards highlight these industries as great career choices for other women by acknowledging these success stories. In 2024, the 11th annual awards showcased exceptional examples of industry advocacy, mentorship and broad sector excellence.
Australian Mining, PACE Magazine, Manufacturers’ Monthly, MHD Supply Chain Solutions, Prime Mover, Power Torque, Big Rigs, Inside Construction, Waste Management Review, Rail Express, Roads & Infrastructure Australia, Energy Today, Quarry, Trailer Magazine and Australian Bulk Handling Review have all partnered with the Awards to acknowledge the exceptional women who have achieved success through their invaluable leadership, innovation and commitment to their sector.
2024 Awards review
2024 saw a record 164 nominations across 11 categories. On the night of the event, the judging panel struggled to narrow down the finalist shortlist and to decide the winners, as there were numerous deserving candidates. Although there were many deserving winners, 11 women stood out for their outstanding work in their respective industries and were announced in front of friends and family.
Full list of winners
• Al lyson Woodford (APA Group) –Excellence in Engineering
• An ne Modderno (Swietelsky) – Excellence in Transport
• Kate Leone (UGL – M6 Stage 1 Project) – Rising Star of the Year
• Kat hleen Kelly (McConnell Dowell) – Safety Advocacy Award
• Kirstin Reblin (Opal Packaging) –Mentor of the Year
• Sa ndra Robinson (United Rentals) –Business Development Success of the Year
• Si nead Booth (Fortescue) – Excellence in Mining
Derelle Mitchell won the Woman of the Year Award as well as the Excellence in Manufacturing Award
• Si nead Redmond (GeelongPort) –Excellence in Construction
• Steph Gee (CM & SM Gee Electrical)
– Industry Advocacy Award
• Vesna Olles (BOC Limited) – Excel lence in Energy
• Derelle Mitchell (Health Focus Manufacturing) – Excellence in Manufacturing and Woman of the Year
Construction excellence
Head of Infrastructure delivery at GeelongPort, Sinead Redmond won the Excellence in Construction Award for making a positive contribution to the industry through her leadership. Working in the construction industry for over 18 years, she has extensive experience in project delivery across various fields and has proven to be an influential leader.
Redmond has been credited for consistently developing creative solutions to complex problems. At GeelongPort, she oversees the port’s engineering, asset management and project management functions. Her commitment to developing and enriching the industry is evident through her leadership positions in various industry organisations.
She led the establishment of the first regional chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), recognising the need for better female representation in construction, particularly in regional areas. Her advocacy and volunteering in the industry have led to changes in policies and the development of mentoring and programs, reflecting her dedication to growth, gender equity, diversity and inclusion.
“I’m shocked but really happy to receive this award, I have a great supportive team of family and friends that have helped me get to where I am today,” she says.
“Well done to every single person in this room, well done for putting in a nomination and well done to the other finalists, you’re all outstanding people and are smashing it.”
Images:
The awards were held at Sydney’s Doltone House Hyde Park Ballroom in late June
Safety advocacy
Health and safety are vital to an organisation’s successful and continued operations in many industries. As a result, acknowledging the Safety Advocacy Award winner recognises the best work in ensuring people’s safety.
The winner in 2024 is Kathleen Kelly, a health and safety advisor at McConnell Dowell. With a management background spanning construction, operations, human resources, OH&S, training, WorkCover claims and injury management, Kelly is passionate about crafting and implementing health, safety and well-being programs. Her expertise stems from diverse industries like construction, engineering, mining, rail, telecommunications, parks management, toll road networks, and council operations.
Kelly is driven by the goal of aiding employers and employees in achieving organisational objectives through effective programs. She is a contributor to the safety culture established for the New Bridgewater Bridge project in Bridgewater, Tasmania. Throughout her 22-year career in the construction industry, she has earned multiple accolades from projects and organisations alike for her dedication to cultivating a culture of safety excellence.
“Safety and wellbeing are very important in our industry and I am proud to work for McConnell Dowell,” she says.
“It has fantastic values and females are employed because of their worth – not just to increase numbers.
“This is a humbling moment for me and I get heaps of support from all my team members across the project.”
Rising star
Working as a communications engineer on the M6 Stage 1 project in Sydney, UGL’s Kate Leone has been recognised as the winner of the Rising Star of The Year award (sponsored by Atlas Copco) for showing
promise within her role – since being employed in 2021.
Leone has demonstrated leadership potential early in her career, with an ambition to lead her own projects with a complete gender balance – within the next 10 years. She is credited as a passionate teacher and mentor with active involvement in various industry organisations and associations. Currently working towards becoming a chartered engineer, she is professional member of ITS Australia, NAWIC, Engineers without Borders and Engineers Australia.
Since joining the CIMIC graduate program in February 2021 at Sydney Metro North-West, Leone has moved up the ranks, being employed at M6 Stage 1 later that year, and was promoted to the position of communications engineer in the mechanical/electrical team in February 2023.
“I am thrilled to be in a room with so many talented and driven young women and when I look at what you’re all doing for your industries, I have so much hope for a future where you’re all leading significant projects or companies,” she says.
“I’ve had the benefit of multiple mentors on the M6 project who have not only supported my learning, but have actively advocated for it.
“I highly encourage those who are more senior to consider mentoring younger women or those from a diverse background.”
Woman of the Year Health Focus Manufacturing (HFM) managing director Derelle Mitchell had much to celebrate, winning both the Woman of the Year Award (sponsored by Fulton Hogan) and the Excellence in Manufacturing Award (sponsored by PACCAR Australia).
Mitchell’s background in account management and insurance, along with her study in business management, empowered her to bring business acumen, communication skills and meticulous attention to detail to HFM. She has built a world-class manufacturing facility, ensuring a hands-on approach, focusing on efficient processes and high-quality products while nurturing its partners.
MItchell’s drive to rekindle her career after raising her children led her to seize an opportunity to acquire the assets of a cosmetic manufacturing company in 2011, marking the humble beginning of HFM. Starting with a small team in a ‘big green shed’, HFM has grown over the past decade to accommodate more than 40 staff members with over 200 years of experience.
“I love the people I work with, if it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be standing here,” she says.
“Well done to everyone who was nominated and everyone that won an award, it takes a lot of blood, sweat, tears and sacrifices.”
“It’s a huge honour to win this award.”
Hillhead highlights
Hillhead 2024 hosted more exhibitors and live demonstrations than ever before, showcasing the latest machines and technology on offer across a number of sectors.
Thousands travelled to attend the event, which takes place annually at Tarmac’s Hillhead Quarry, near Buxton, Derbyshire in the UK.
With around 600 companies showing off their latest innovations, Hillhead once again proved itself as one of the most iconic quarrying, construction and recycling exhibitions in the events calendar.
Here are some of the highlights from Hillhead 2024.
Develon
Develon, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, showcased new products for the first time at Hillhead, including the new DX140RDM-7, a 22.5-tonne demolition excavator and the new DD130-7 dozer.
The DX140RDM-7 is the latest addition to Develon’s range of demolition excavators. Like the larger 31 - 51 tonne models, this new 22.5-tonne excavator offers multiple configurations to choose from.
Like the larger machines, the DX140RDM-7 is also available in a dual format utilising a modular boom design and hydraulic lock mechanism, allowing the user to change between different arms for demolition and digging using the same machine.
With the launch of the new DD1307, Develon has entered the European dozer market, with the model offering a wide range of features providing a productive fine-grading solution for residential and light commercial construction projects.
Develon’s compact equipment also had a strong showing, with the DX27Z-7 and DX55R-7 miniexcavators and DL85-7 compact wheel loader on show.
The zero-tail-swing design of the DX27Z-7 and the reduced radius design of the DX55R-7 models make them ideal for confined space work, Develon says.
Bobcat
Bobcat showcased several new products for the first time at the Hillhead 2024, including the super-compact
Hillhead 2024 saw large crowds and large machines descend on Tarmac’s Hillhead Quarry. Image: Hillhead
TL25.60 telehandler, the S650 skidsteer loader and the T86 compact track loader, which just landed in Australia.
As the smallest machine in the range, the new TL25.60 brings the number of rigid-frame telehandlers from Bobcat for construction, rental, and general handling to 13 models.
Bobcat says the TL25.60 has been designed for simplicity of use, excellent stability, optimum comfort, and safe operation in any type of application.
The TL25.60 is powered by a 75hp Bobcat Stage V engine, has a lift capacity of 2,500kg, offers a maximum lift height of 5.9m, and has a maximum reach of 3.3m.
The Bob-Tach carriage (manual or hydraulic) increases versatility by allowing the TL25.60 to utilise attachments designed for the Bobcat loader range, the company says.
Meanwhile, the Bobcat T86 is the most powerful compact loader the company has ever built.
The machine uses a well-proven Stage V-compliant 3.4-litre Bobcat engine, producing 78kW (105hp) at 2,600 rev/min.
HD Hyundai
HD Hyundai Construction Equipment used the event to launch its two largest Stage V crawler excavators and its heaviest wheel loader.
Sany and Komatsu excavators were showcased at Hillhead 2024. Image: Hillhead
This year’s Hillhead 2024 featured a wide range of machinery highlights, including exclusive launches and demonstrations
Images: Hillhead
JCB machinery in action at the annual showcase. Image: Hillhead
Tipping the scales at 80 and 100 tonnes respectively, the HX800A L and HX1000A L are heavy-duty excavators designed for quarry and bulk earthmoving duties.
The HX800A L is powered by a 403kW Stage V diesel engine, driving two 504 litres/min hydraulic pumps, while the HX1000A L uses a 469kW diesel engine, powering three 523 litres/min pumps.
The HX800A L is suitable for use with 4.25–5.24 cubic metre buckets, whilst the larger 100-tonne machine will be able to work with 5.4–6.8 cubic metre buckets, the company says.
HD Hyundai also unveiled its biggest wheel loader with the launch of the HL985A.
This 35-tonne loading shovel will be capable of working with 7 cubic metre buckets, which the company says makes it an ideal digging and rehandling machine for the mining, quarrying, and heavy civil sectors.
Powered by a 430.5 horsepower (321kW) diesel engine, the HL985A boasts a bucket breakout force of up to 28,400kgf and a full turn tipping load of 22,950kg in standard configuration.
HD Hyundai also gave customers a first chance to see the recently launched HX-A Series of mini- and midi-excavators.
Powered by low-emission Stage V engines, the eight machines are offered in both conventional and zero-tail-swing designs, to suit a wide range of customers across various markets.
HD Hyundai also recently added a range of HRB silenced hydraulic breakers to their line-up.
The six breakers have been designed to work with carrier machines in the 1.2–26-tonne sectors.
Takeuchi
Popular manufacturer Takeuchi exhibited the latest additions to the 3-Series range of mini and midi excavators.
The new 2-tonne class TB320 was of great interest to visitors. The mini excavator/tool carrier has been designed for multi attachment use,
something that has become more and more popular in recent years.
Husqvarna
Husqvarna Construction introduced the new DXR 95, its lightest and most compact demolition robot ever, at Hillhead 2024.
The DXR 95 packs a strong punch, thanks to a high-efficiency powertrain delivering 9.8kW of power and 250 bar of pressure to the end-of-arm tool, Husqvarna says.
Yet, weighing in at around half a tonne, it is small enough to be transported in an ordinary van and steered through narrow passageways, as well as sturdy enough to manage steep inclines at an angle of 30 degrees.
Key features include ergonomic joysticks and knobs, written messages and the ability for operators to choose their preferred language on the large LCD screen.
The versatile robot is ideally suited for a range of applications from underground rock breaking to chimney removal, Husqvarna adds.
Mitsubishi Electric
Mitsubishi Electric’s Automation Systems Division (Mitsubishi Electric) made its Hillhead debut at this year’s exhibition, highlighting how the aggregates industry can cut its energy use and improve plant efficiency.
The company showcased its ICONICS Suite and intelligent control solutions - and attendees were able to find out more about how the software solution organises critical operating information and identifies targeted opportunities for energy reduction.
Case
Case had a wide range of equipment on display at Hillhead 2024 but much of the focus was on the new CX210E-S tracked excavator.
This excavator retains all the power and performance of the standard CX210E yet boasts an increasingly competitive price point and a simplified list of options, says Case.
The company also showcased the new 651G ‘Evolution’ for those in the market for a new wheel loader.
Built to sit between the 621G and the 721G, the 651G boasts increased loading performance, thanks to reinforced front and rear chassis sections, plus heavy-duty axles as standard with a choice of locking differentials.
Visitors to the stand also viewed Case’s battery-powered 12EV, which joined the company’s electric mini-excavators in a growing zeroemission Case line-up.
Brokk
The Brokk 170 and Brokk 200+, among the company’s latest generation of demolition robots, were on show at Hillhead 2024.
This newest generation is resistant to shock, temperature, and vibration, with all new robots and control boxes protected to an IP65 equivalent, the company says.
Brokk’s SmartPower+ generation also includes an 87 per cent reduction in cables and connectors. It has also introduced a new lightweight control box weighing less than 3kg, which includes tilted joysticks, easier-to-reach features, and faster dual charging.
Lekatech
Lekatech took the opportunity at Hillhead 2024 to introduce its electric hammer technology.
The Lekatech Electric Hammer is powered by new and patented linear electric motor technology and is designed and built to be highly efficient and with a power-toweight ratio superior to traditionally powered hammers.
Lekatech says it delivers up to 70 per cent energy savings when factoring in overall energy consumption of the equipment and that it provides twice the blow impact energy of a hydraulic hammer of the same size.
Sunward Europe
Two excavators from Sunward Europe made their UK debut at Hillhead 2024 - the SWE 50UF mini and SWE 60UFED excavators.
Building on the success of Sunward’s zero-tail range, which earned an iF Design Award, the fivetonne SWE 50UF mini-excavator, which is positioned between the SWE 35UF and SWE 60UF, features zero-tail swing.
Also new to Hillhead was Sunward’s SWE 60UFED, a six-tonne electric compact excavator which features a high-torque permanent magnet synchronous motor.
JCB
JCB used Hillhead 2024 to showcase its biggest and most powerful X Series tracked excavator yet, the
370X, a heavy-duty earthmover that JCB says brings industry-leading levels of productivity, durability and reliability to the 35 to 40-tonne sector.
Powered by a Stage V/Tier 4F 240kW (322hp) diesel engine delivering 14 per cent more power, the 370X can move 4.5 tonnes more material per litre of fuel than competitive models.
It features the new JCB UX user interface with 10 inch colour touchscreen display and controls, increased hydraulic pressures to boost performance in hard digging, and extended service intervals.
The new model was joined at the show by an extensive line-up of JCB machines, including JCB’s new Dual Drive backhoe loader, new Hydradig with Raptor tilt-rotator, and the prototype backhoe loader powered by JCB’s hydrogen combustion engine.
Agg-Pro
Agg-Pro showcased the largest mobile crusher ever seen at Hillhead during the 2024 event.
The Jonsson L130 is one of five jaw crushers manufactured by Jonsson at its headquarters in Sweden.
Born out of the need to crush Scandinavian granite, it can achieve a crush rate of up to 800 tonnes/h.
Featuring a 13-litre Stage V Volvo engine and a 400kVA Volvo generator, the dual-power design of the L130 significantly reduces operational costs, the company adds.
The Develon stand at Hillhead 2024. Image: Hillhead
Abra Instruments
Arbra took the opportunity to showcase its new Mk 40 exploder, a powerful, lightweight, rechargeable exploder for firing electric detonators. The unit features a strong, waterproof case with carrying handle and is supplied with a wall charger and charging cable.
Webtec
Webtec used Hillhead 2024 to showcase the third generation of its DHT digital hydraulic tester, designed to assist hydraulic technicians with reactive, proactive, and preventive maintenance.
Measuring flow, pressure and temperature, the DHT has a built-in loading valve to simulate load.
The DHT has enhanced display functionality, which is almost three times larger than the previousgeneration model.
Rapid International
Rapid International exhibited the enhanced Trakmix 250 track-mounted mobile continuous mixing plant.
Producing up to 250 tonnes/h, the company says Trakmix is fully selfcontained and can be set up and mixing in a matter of hours.
Hill Engineering
Hill’s stand showcased its new-version 20-tonne Tefra Connect coupler and Tefra Connect display unit, which the company says is a revolutionary new coupler that can connect any hydraulic work tool safely and automatically from the operator’s seat.
SBM Mineral Processing
SBM Mineral Processing displayed the REMAX 600 impact crusher at Hillhead 2024 to mark the UK launch of the company’s new flagship product.
With an operating weight of around 80 tonnes, the 1400-class impact crusher produces a maximum 600 tonnes/h, which SBM says defines a completely new performance segment in mobile crushing.
The REMAX 600 is powered by a Cummins Stage-V diesel engine and
a 520kVA generator or, as an option, is fully electric from the mains.
Wirtgen Group
In an exciting premiere, the Wirtgen Group used Hillhead 2024 to unveil its new generation of Benninghoven burners, including the world’s first burner that can be fuelled exclusively with green hydrogen.
Wirtgen says that Benninghoven not only presents a ground-breaking solution for the highways and road-surfacing markets, but also showcases further technologies for sustainable asphalt production.
The new mobile impact crusher Mobirex MR 100(i) NEO/NEOe also made its debut appearance in the UK at Hillhead 2024.
Thanks to its compact dimensions and a low transport weight, the MR 100(i) NEO/NEOe can be used flexibly, quickly and in a very wide variety of applications, says the Wirtgen Group.
Also celebrating their first appearance at Hillhead were two Vögele road pavers - the MINI 500 compact paver and the Dash 5 generation, SUPER 1900-5(i) Highway Class paver.
CDE
CDE used Hillhead 2024 to debut its most efficient water-management solution to date - the AggMax 252SR scrubbing and classifying system, which combines pre-screening, scrubbing, organics removal, sizing, stockpiling, fines recovery and filtrate removal on a compact chassis.
ProSpare
ProSpare Ltd used Hillhead 2024
as the platform for the UK launch of the STARCLEAN S³, a conveyor belt cleaner and monitoring system that allows continuous contact-based control of the conveyor belt and scrapers.
The S³ operates through advanced touch-based scanning technology, which analyses the movement and surface structure of the belt to detect possible damage and allows reaction before the production process is seriously impaired.
Astec Industries
Following a significant investment in its European factory in Omagh, Northern Ireland, Astec Industries, which has a regional office in Australia, showcased some of its comprehensive product range at Hillhead 2024.
Hillhead 2024 saw Astec double its footprint at the show, displaying its latest fines-recovery plant and rinser screen from the Astec washing solutions division.
The company also showcased a range of units from its mobile and modular crushing and screening divisions as well as a number of tracked mounted and modular jaws, impactors, cone crushers, scalpers and finishing screens.
Sany
With a new, larger, and more prominent stand location in front of the quarry face demonstration zone, visitors to the Sany UK stand were able to see the brand new STH1840 telehandler which debuted at the ScotPlant exhibition earlier this year.
The STH1840 is one of the first machines to feature in the Sany
The Hyundai HX 1000AL attracted interested spectators. Image: Hillhead
telehandler series along with the smaller 14m (STH1440) and 7m (STH742) models, all powered by Stage V Deutz engines.
SMT
SMT used Hillhead 2024 to officially introduce the new Volvo EC230 Electric excavator to the market in Great Britain.
This 23-tonne machine is Volvo CE’s first fully electric model in the midsized excavator category, opening up the benefits of zero exhaust emissions and quiet operation to a broader range of construction applications.
Hillhead visitors were able to see the Volvo EC230 Electric in action in the exhibition’s demonstration zone.
EvoQuip
EvoQuip ran live working demonstrations of the brand-new Bison 220R jaw crusher at Hillhead 2024.
The EvoQuip Bison 220R boasts an impressive 820mm x 550mm jaw inlet and has 240MP compressive strength to process a wide range of applications.
EvoQuip says the Bison 220R’s efficient hydrostatic drive system not only optimises fuel efficiency but also enhances performance, complemented by the ability to run the chamber in reverse.
The company adds that with quick setup times, simple intuitive operation and easy maintenance and transport capabilities, the Bison 220R stands out as a versatile and userfriendly solution for various crushing applications.
Edge
The new Edge Screenpro S18 heavy-duty tracked scalper made its UK exhibition debut at Hillhead this year.
Edge says the S18 was designed to operate in the most difficult and demanding applications, including the processing of aggregate, construction waste, sand and gravel, soils and organic materials.
It features interchangeable flip-flow and conventional scalper screens, which the company adds provides unprecedented flexibility.
Hillhead 2024 provided the backdrop for yet another exclusive global launch, this time in the form of Stream from Terex Washing Systems (TWS), which the company describes as “revolutionary”.
Stream is an innovative data software system that leverages real-time insights to drive machine performance, which TWS says empowers operators with actionable intelligence to boost productivity, minimise downtime and maximise profitability.
Finlay
Finlay unveiled new electric variants of the I-120RS impact crusher and the 883+ scalping screen at Hillhead 2024.
These models were showcased in the working demonstration area, featuring electric-powered technology that enables operation from either a mains electric power supply or a secondary source such as a genset.
The live demonstrations were powered by the new Finlay TG500 genset.
The electric Finlay I-120RS provides the flexibility of a mobile impact crushing and screening plant on one platform, the company says.
Meanwhile, the electric Finlay 883+ heavy-duty scalper is designed to work in primary and secondary screening applications such as quarrying and mining, iron ore, construction demolition waste, sand and gravel, compost, topsoil, and coal.
Telestack
Telestack launched its latest product, the TSR40 radial telescopic conveyor, at this year’s Hillhead exhibition. The company says its latest offering was designed to redefine the landscape of the quarrying sector.
WEG & Technidrive
Industrial equipment manufacturers WEG and systems integrators Technidrive co-exhibited at Hillhead 2024, showcasing Technidrive’s drumdrive solution and highlighting the benefits of the jaw crusher automation system.
Attendees also got the opportunity to explore WEG’s industrial WG50 gearbox line and their Motion Fleet Management (MFM) platform.
RMGroup
RMGroup used Hillhead 2024 to showcase its latest mobile packaging system for aggregates.
Contained within a 40ft shipping container, the CTF-600 bag filling system comes complete with an ABB robot palletising system, bulk hopper with in-feed conveyor and weighing system to process more than 16 tonnes of bagged aggregate per hour.
Terex MPS
Terex MPS launched two new models at Hillhead 2024 – the WG220E portable cone crusher and the WV1400E portable vertical-shaft impact crusher.
Both models are designed primarily for the European market, and are electrically driven, either from mains power or a generator.
A-Safe
Global company A-Safe introduced their latest innovation, the Monoplex Bollard, at Hillhead 2024, which the company says sets a new standard in safety.
Built with layered engineering, the Monoplex Bollard removes the weakest part of a traditional bollard, the steel baseplate.
The bottom layer of the bollard provides protection around fixings, the middle absorbs the shock of the impact and the top layer provides maximum impact resistance and recovery, avoiding damage to the impacting vehicle.
Goodyear
Goodyear exhibited the brand-new Goodyear GP-4D Gen II OTR tyre, a tyre aimed at articulated dump trucks, at Hillhead 2024.
The tyre features an optimised tread design, multiple steel belt carcass construction and a unique tread compound, Goodyear says.
Thwaites
Thwaites revealed the Rotator at Hillhead 2024, a brand new 9-tonne dumper that gives the operator a rotating position enabling 360 degree visibility from the safest seat on site.
The unique function of this Thwaites dumper is that it operates the same way forwards as it does backwards, all enabled by the operator position that can now rotate - hence the Rotator.
Bell Equipment
To mark its 70th anniversary and 40 years as an articulated dump truck (ADT) manufacturer, Bell Equipment went full throttle at Hillhead 2024 where its latest innovation, an autonomous B40E ADT, took part in live quarry demonstrations.
Supplied by technology platform specialists xtonomy, the hardware includes robust radar sensors, high-precision GPS, multi-channel communication systems, and onboard processing hardware to create a drive-by-wire B40E solution.
EDGE Innovate has launched the VS750i primary waste shredder at Hillhead 2024. Image: Hillhead
Authorised dealer for Anaconda
Machinery advice
Makin Traks founder Daz Scale outlines key pieces of advice for those seeking to purchase second hand machinery
The second hand machinery and parts market can be a tricky sales floor to navigate, with plenty of dealers vying for your business, a wide range of equipment available and a lot of competition for the good pieces.
Getting some insight into the used machine market and some helpful advice on how to navigate it effectively can go a long way.
Makin Traks is a used machinery dealership based in Sunshine Coast, owned and operated by Daz Scale.
Well-known for specialising in lowhour, high-quality Cat dozers, Makin Traks also supplies graders and skid steers, sourced from Australia and overseas.
Speaking to Earthmovers & Excavators, Scale provides an insight into the second hand machinery market and outlines key pieces of advice for potential buyers seeking to navigate its waters.
It’s a busy time for Makin Traks, which recently opened a brand-new facility and expanded operations. The dealer is also experiencing high levels of demand for certain machinery, including dozers and graders.
“The dozer spaces and the grader spaces are still thriving, but the skid steer market has dropped off a little bit,” Scale says.
“Overall, in order, dozers would be the strongest market, then graders and then skid steers for us.”
While sourcing quality second hand construction machinery is not an issue, Scale reveals that growing shipping costs and the Australian dollar’s poor performance against its US counterparts are posing challenges for the industry.
This makes it all the more important to find the right deal when buying second hand machinery.
To ensure this, Scale outlines eight key pieces of advice for those seeking to buy second hand machinery in today’s market.
1. The right dealer
“First of all, find a dealer that you feel comfortable dealing with,” Scale says, highlighting the importance of initial reactions.
“How do you feel on the phone or meeting them in person? Are they transparent? Do you feel like they’re easy to deal with?
“It’s got to be an easy, comfortable gentleman’s agreement,” he adds.
2. Machine year and hours
Secondly, Scale highlights the importance of verifying the machine’s hours and model year, once you’ve found the right machine for you amongst the wide variety on offer.
“When you look at in the dozer world, if you look at [a Cat] D3 through to D11, you’re talking about a variation from an 8-tonne machine to a 130tonne machine,” he explains.
“You’re talking about variation in 80
horsepower through to 1,300hp.
“So, you really want to find the right machine for you, [the one] that suits.
“Then number two, you really want to verify the machine’s year and the hours,” Scale adds.
No matter the year or type of equipment, Scale advises getting a complete status report to verify the machine’s hours.
“Whether it’s a 2015 or a 2018, whatever it is, you really want to get the machine plugged into a computer to do an ECM (electronic control module) download to verify machine information.”
3. Ve rify repairs
Knowing what repairs have been completed on the machine prior to the sale should be another priority, according to the Sunshine Coast machinery dealer.
“You really want to verify what repairs are being completed on the machine prior to sale,” he says.
“There’s always going to be something. If the machine’s got 5,000 hours, there’s always going to be something to do on the machine to get it to what we would call ‘job-ready’. So, do the bearings need replacing? Do the hydraulic hoses need replacing? Does it need seals? Does the AC need regassing? What condition is the undercarriage?
“You really want to know [and] verify what repairs are being done on it, so that you know what you’re really getting,” Scale adds, leading nicely into tip number four.
4. Workshop report
Scale emphasises the importance of checking what the dealer or seller has done with the machine in terms of both completed and ongoing repairs or works.
“Just verify that those repairs have been done or are being done,” he says.
5. Photographic evidence
Asking for photos of the machine when all works are completed is a good way of finding out more about it, Scale explains.
He says that transparent dealers and dealerships will have a folder
Inside the Makin Traks facility in Yandina on the Sunshine Coast
Images: Makin Traks.
of photos showing the machine at various stages of repair right up to completion, to give prospective buyers a full and transparent history.
“There are a number of things there that you want to see,” he says.
“You’d want to be walked through the process and feel like you’re part of the rebuilding, the repairing on the machine.”
If it is clear that the machine has been recently painted, Scale advises buyers to ask why it has been painted and if it would be possible to see photos of the machine before and after the paint job.
“Some dealers may just go out there and do Dulux makeovers for the sake of it, just to try and flog off the machine,” he says.
“You really want to know what you’re buying.”
6. Warranty options
Potential buyers should also assess if the dealer offers any warranty options on the machine.
Some dealers, like Makin Traks, do offer warranties while others do not.
“Check with the dealership and see if there are any warranty options on the machine,” Scale advises.
“If there are warranty options, how long is it for and what does it include?”
Makin Traks offers a 12 month warranty on second hand machinery, covering everything from the powertrain to transmission and hydraulics.
“It just gives the customer a bit of peace of mind, knowing that in three months’ time, if they had a serious mechanical problem they’re going to be supported,” Scale adds.
7. Transport assistance
Transporting large pieces of machinery can be a tricky and costly endeavour. Scale advises buyers to ask the dealer if they offer any assistance with transport.
If there is assistance, Scale explains this allows buyers to receive their machine in “turnkey” condition.
A Makin Traks customer from NSW recently purchased a Caterpillar D5K Crawler Dozer from the Sunshine Coast dealership.
Scale explains Makin Traks assisted with pricing up the cost of having the machine picked up in the Sunshine Coast and delivered to his customer’s property, work-ready.
8. After sales advice
Finally, Scale advises buyers to ask their dealers about after sales support or advice, something Makin Traks offers its customers.
He highlights the importance of buyers being able to access “expert advice” from the dealer, particularly in terms of operating the machine or any repair needs that might crop up.
“It’s something we offer and it’s
something I’d highly recommend any buyer to look for before purchasing a $200,000, $300,000 or a $500,000 machine,” Scale says.
New facility
Makin Traks opened its brand-new facility in Yandina in March this year, allowing the company to expand its operations and footprint.
The new site, which features upgraded workshops and manufacturing facilities, is specifically designed for the repair, maintenance and preparation of earthmoving equipment.
Alongside the main 4,000 square metre workshop, two additional buildings have allowed Makin Traks to expand its spare parts stock and attachments offering, and the site has also seen the business expand its custom fabrication work.
The new facility is something the Makin Traks team is very proud of.
“We can fit 50 or 60 dozers just under cover,” Scale explains, outlining the scale of the new facility.
“It’s a fantastic facility and it’s paying dividends already.”
Customers who enter the workshop are blown away, Scale adds, saying the new premises has allowed Makin Traks to take its used machinery “to the next level”, further setting it apart from the competition.
For more info, visit www.makintraks.com or call Daz Scale on 0402 940 490.
Makin Traks’ facility in Yandina features upgraded workshops.
Inside the Makin Traks facility in the Sunshine Coast.
Workplace culture
Aiming to improve productivity, to attract more people into the industry and to keep them there, the Construction Industry Culture Taskforce has implemented a set of basic standards that look to create a healthier work environment. Earthmovers & Excavators takes a look at how these standards are being applied to five different pilot projects
With the Australian construction industry facing key issues including labour demand, a large gender pay gap, a lack of diversity and high rates of suicide, the Construction Industry Culture Taskforce (CICT) has taken steps to drive positive change.
For the past five years, CICT has collaborated with and been funded by the New South Wales (NSW) and Victorian governments, as well as the Australian Constructors Association, to improve the culture on worksites.
The woman behind this initiative is CICT chair Gabrielle Trainor, who comes with a wealth of experience as the acting chief commissioner of Infrastructure Australia and co-chair of Build Skills Australia – to name a few of her numerous titles.
While CICT’s goal is ambitious, Trainor says it is crucial for the industry to undertake change –rather than nothing be done.
“We want to drive industry productivity improvements by embedding a Culture Standard into procurement, harmonised across all Australian jurisdictions,” she says.
“If we can get there, it will create a level playing field for contractors, will
help drive positive cultural change through the supply chain and government clients will buy in to be part of the solution.”
CICT has outlined three key pillars to the Culture Standard – time for life, diversity and inclusion and wellbeing –that it recommends tackling together, instead of individually.
Driving change
Losing approximately 100,000 workers a year to retirement or simply just leaving for opportunities elsewhere, CICT wants to make the construction industry more appealing for the workforce.
“Despite the great things about working in construction, it is not an industry of choice for many people –especially women and increasingly young men,” Trainor says.
Three key factors are at the forefront of CICT’s development, which Trainor refers to as the three P’s – pipeline, people and policy. She says pipeline refers to the increasing labour demands which are more than double available supply – with labour costs reflecting that.
CICT has applied the Culture Standard to five different pilot projects. Image: CICT
“Infrastructure Australia’s Market Capacity Report found the pipeline of public infrastructure projects ($230 billion over the next five years) faces a shortage of 214,000 skilled workers,” she says.
Trainor says the people factor refers to the construction workers who face mental health battles, deal with a lack of diversity and endure a large gender pay gap.
According to CICT, construction workers are six times more likely to die from suicide than an accident at work. The industry also has the largest median total remuneration gender pay gap – at 31.8 per cent.
“Despite all the good work that’s been done by organisations like the National Association of Women In Construction (NAWIC), Mates in Construction and Wellness in Infrastructure, the needle has not materially moved over decades, and coincidentally, neither has industry productivity,” Trainor says.
The third factor is policy, referring to the policy makers who Trainor says are focusing strongly on diversity and equality.
“Employees have very different expectations now than in the past, so it’s important that we can help build a positive culture,” the CICT chair says.
“The Building Commission of NSW published a report in January stating 63 per cent of the 1,800 surveyed are considering leaving the industry.”
Trainor says the main reason for this is working hours, the lack of work and life balance and company or team culture – all key aspects of CICT’s Culture Standard.
Implementation
Looking to address these concerns, CICT has tested the impacts of its draft Culture Standard in the field, by applying them to five pilot projects across NSW and Victoria.
Trainor says the aim of the pilots were to measure the costs, benefits and impacts through the whole lifecycle of these projects.
In Victoria, the Narre WarrenCranbourne Road Upgrade (McConnell Dowell) and the Brunt Road Level Crossing Removal Project
(Fulton Hogan) were chosen to implement the Culture Standard.
In NSW, they were applied to the Wentworth Point High School project (Roberts Co), the Mulgoa Road Upgrade Project Stage One (Seymour Whyte), Sydney Children’s Hospital Stage One and Minderoo Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre (John Holland Group).
With a mix of different projects, clients and different scales, CICT has tried to assemble a representative sample of the industry.
The data from these projects, gathered by researchers at RMIT University over two years, involved over 700 workplace surveys, organisational data collection and 320 individual in-depth interviews.
Each project applied the draft Culture Standard differently, with two projects combining a five-day Monday to Friday schedule with alternative work arrangements, one project ran a six day-on and three day-off roster, another ran four 12-hour shifts with two days off, and one set 50-hour working caps with an option for Saturday work – within these hours.
Interim report
Results of the pilot projects were positive, with Trainor saying workers were particularly supportive of fiveday work weeks with an average of 50 hours worked.
84 per cent of salaried and 61 per cent of wage workers preferred this over a six-day work week.
“Another positive we’ve found is that less hours worked doesn’t appear to have decreased productivity,” Trainor says.
One of the main reasons for this, is that team members were more rested over the weekend, which cancelled out the hours lost on the weekend.
An anonymous survey respondent backed up this point through their experience in the pilot projects.
“When you do stupid hours, like 70 to 80, I don’t think you get more work done, you’re much less effective when tired,” the respondent says.
Trainor says most preferred the Monday to Friday week, citing family time and recovery as key reasons.
Another respondent added that they loved the change and that they couldn’t see themselves working another six-day job again.
Initially, some workers were concerened about the reduced hours effecting pay, however, Trainor says there was a minimal effect.
“Most of the respondents said having the time back to spend with friends and family, exercise and do all of those things were really important to their wellbeing,” she says.
“The evidence shows that wellbeing was enhanced, and that men and women found the environments more positive.”
Trainor says women felt much more respected in the workplace and had better access to amenities than on previous projects.
Another respondent added that they wished the Culture Standard had been set 10 years ago.
“It would have made my career a lot easier with all the other jobs I’ve done,” the respondent says.
Looking ahead
Researchers from RMIT will finalise its research and report by the end of the year and CICT will look to alleviate some of the challenges that were found in the pilots by updating the Culture Standard.
One of these challenges was the impact of longer working days – due to shorter weeks – on stress levels.
“There are always challenges and this one came out of workers who reallocated hours into five days –creating longer days,” Trainor says.
Another challenge that arose, were younger workers wanting to work more hours and days to establish themselves – in contrary to most of the older workers who had families.
“About 28 per cent of the workers –mainly waged – wanted more work and or days,” Trainor says.
“This statistic mostly comprises young males who haven’t started a family and therefore are seeking more overtime.”
Looking ahead, CICT will need to balance these differing needs, but in the meantime, Trainor says the Culture Standard is having a positive effect on the industry.
“We believe our research and Culture Standard can help transform infrastructure and construction with deliberate, accountable and specific actions.”
For more information on CICT, visit constructionindustryculturetask force.com.au
The draft Culutre Standard was implemented at the Mulgoa Road Upgrade Project Stage One in NSW. Image: CICT
High-end enlarged cabin
Power & Comfort: Shantui DH17-C3 19.65 Tonne Dozer
“What attracted me to it is that it’s basically a third of the price of other brands and I think the quality’s just as good”
“The hydrostatic steering is far better than what we used to call a clutch-type tractor. They’re just a lot better to operate and a lot more user-friendly.” - Owen Lane, Hiregrade, NSW 19.65 tonne (approx. with forestry) bulldozer with Weichai WP7 Tier 3 152kW (204hp) 1800rpm six cylinder engine, hydrostatic drive, semi U tilt or straight blade, three-shank rear rippers, 510/560/610mm track shoes and track guard plate, engine side guards, air-conditioned ROPS/FOPS cabin with forestry protection, radio, UHF radio and suspension seat. $235,000 plus GST = $258,500*
Shantui SG21-B6 Grader
►360-degree field of vision ►Reverse camera ►UHF radio
16.8 tonne grader with Cummins 6CTAA8.3-C215 160kW (214.56hp) 2200rpm six cylinder engine (Cummins Australia warranty), 14 foot blade, rear rippers, ZF type powershift transmission - six forward / three reverse, with transmission guarding, no-spin self-locking differential, reverse camera, 17.5R25 tyres, air-conditioned cabin with radio and suspension seat. $218,000 plus GST = $239,800*
Industry changes
This week I attended the funeral of a well-respected member of the civil construction community in Queensland. There was a large gathering of people to show their respect to another person who represented, in my opinion, what used to be great about our industry. In addition to the family, in attendance was a significant number of ex-employees and other construction people. The anecdotes and stories presented at the funeral flowed over to the wake and a sense of melancholy came over me.
There used to be a sense of joy that accompanied the hard work and commitment in delivering infrastructure early in my career. A standout is that a young person could back themselves and start a civil construction business with some degree of confidence it would be successful. The employees would stick through the highs and lows. Often the first employees would be the last. Loyalty was a two-way street. Mutual respect, hard work and fun were the foundations of success.
There have been significant changes to the industry over the last 30 plus years that, for some of the more experienced operators, are not for the benefit of the industry. This evolution is shaped by technological advancements, regulatory changes, economic shifts and a growing emphasis on sustainability and community engagement. Understanding these changes offers a comprehensive perspective on how the sector has adapted to new challenges and opportunities over four decades.
In the early 1980s, civil contracting was heavily reliant on manual labour and rudimentary machinery. Projects were often labour-intensive, with limited use of automation.
Damian Long, CEO CCF QLD
The construction processes were slower, and the margin for error was significantly higher. The understanding of risk was different, and people had the time to teach and guide employees to deliver projects under these conditions.
Fast forward to 2024, the sector is almost unrecognisable in terms of technological integration. Modern civil contracting leverages advanced machinery, drones, GPS technology, and Building Information Modelling (BIM).
These advances are providing improvements in productivity to segments of delivery, but we are not seeing an improvement in overall productivity for the industry.
One of the most significant changes in civil contracting is the heightened focus on sustainability and environmental awareness. In the early 1980s, there was minimal consideration for environmental impacts in project planning and execution. The primary objective was to complete projects within budget and on time, often at the expense of the environment.
However, by 2024, sustainability has become a core aspect of civil contracting. There is a growing recognition of the need to protect natural resources and reduce carbon footprints. Sustainable construction practices are now standard.
In the early 1980s, community engagement in civil contracting projects was limited. Projects were
CCF QLD has highlighted the changing landscape of the civil construction industry. Image: ABCDstock/Shutterstock
often designed and executed with little input from local communities. The focus was primarily on the technical and financial aspects of construction. There is now a strong emphasis on community engagement and social responsibility. Civil contractors now actively involve local communities in the planning and execution of projects.
Social responsibility initiatives, such as providing employment opportunities to local residents, indigenous groups and supporting community development projects, are increasingly common.
In the early 1980s, regulations were less stringent, with a primary focus on basic safety standards and compliance. Environmental concerns were not at the forefront, and the regulatory landscape lacked the complexity seen today. The requirement to address climate change, minorities and provide a wide range of community and social outcomes did not exist. Now, the regulatory environment is more comprehensive and rigorous. Procurement policies and regulation have been implemented by governments to ensure compliance with a wider remit than the construction of the project itself. Construction companies and project teams now employ a range of staff to manage and implement these regulatory requirements.
The industry has continually cried out for reduction in red tape. The acceleration of deliverables wider than the project itself, as well as the accompanying regulation is outpacing regulators’ abilities to provide a rational and efficient environment that will allow contractors to deliver what is required more efficiently themselves.
The barriers to starting a business these days are far more sophisticated than “having a crack”. We need to grow the Australian civil contracting pool, but governments are making this harder each year. Hopefully, governments can see sense and rationalise the regulatory framework so that in another 40 years the next generation of civil construction personnel can look back and feel the same sense of melancholy in delivering projects to modern standards.
Significant changes to civil contracting industry
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New IMS – BP1200-48TB Track Blender, twin power electric drive with Cat C7 Genset, four 12m3 feed hoppers, fully PLC automated - POA
New IMS – BP1200-48TB Track Blender, twin power electric drive with Cat C7 Genset, four 12m3 feed hoppers, fully PLC automated - POA
New IMS – BP1200-48TB Track Blender, twin power electric drive with Cat C7 Genset, four 12m3 feed hoppers, fully PLC automated - POA
Male allies
NAWIC highlights its program, designed to encourage men in construction to champion diversity and inclusion
At the National Association of Women in Construction, our vision is an equitable construction industry where all women fully participate and thrive.
Construction is the second most male-dominated workforce in Australia, after mining, and improving women’s participation in the industry does not have a single fix – there are many paths available.
The NAWIC Male Allies Program is designed for men within the construction industry to understand and champion diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Partnering with consultancy Lysander, this self-paced, five digital module course aims to build awareness and knowledge –exploring key concepts, engaging in interactive learning experiences and developing actionable plans to drive cultural change within teams and organisations.
Male allies play a crucial role in advancing gender equality and dismantling stereotypes. By actively supporting and advocating for women, they help to create a more inclusive society.
Their collective voices call for equal opportunity, respect and recognition for all genders, contributing to a more balanced industry and increasing the rates
of attraction, development and retention of women.
By participating in the program, learners will develop a comprehensive understanding of gender disparities, biases and challenges faced by women in male dominated industries.
They will recognise the importance of male allyship in creating inclusive workplace culture and fostering diversity while acquiring practical skills and strategies to support and advocate for female colleagues, challenge biases and promote gender inclusivity.
By exploring individual and collective roles in fostering gender inclusion including personal, social, societal and organisational levels, learners will be able to commit to implementing action to promote gender inclusivity, advocate for change and shift the culture in construction once and for all.
The five digital modules will include:
• Foundations of inclusion - develop a comprehensive understanding of gender disparities and their impact on both individuals and the wider organisation. Foster empathy and awareness of the challenges women face in male dominated industries.
The NAWIC Male Allies Program is designed for men within the construction industry to understand and champion diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Image: Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock
• Breaking bias - identify common stereotypes and biases affecting women and understand the consequences. Increase awareness of and overcome unconscious biases utilising tools for recognition.
• Al lyship in action - define the role of a male ally, applying strategies to support female colleagues and understanding the importance of bystander intervention. Develop skills in mentoring and sponsoring women for career development.
• Dr iving change - apply techniques that promote diversity and inclusion in teams and the wider organisation. Identify and address microaggressions, fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.
• Leadership impact - develop action plans to create a positive and inclusive leadership shadow. Empower and inspire male allies to lead by example.
The NAWIC Male Allies Program will be launching in the second half of 2024 and is exclusive to NAWIC members. With program structures for both individual and corporate there is an option for everyone.
You can register your early interest online by searching for ‘Male Allies Program’ at nawic.com.au.
NAWIC is a not-for-profit organisation led by a team of employees and volunteers who all strive to champion and empower women to reach their full potential. Our mission is to drive changes that will aid in the increased recruitment, retention and further vocational development of women in the construction industry. You can join the conversations on our socials @nawicau and keep up with our advocacy, events and opportunities at www.nawic.com.au
In a bid to reduce the amount of construction and demolition waste going to landfill, a research team at Monash University is investigating how robotics can be utilised in processing waste materials
With technological advances and artificial intelligence opening up ways in which work processes can be made safer and more efficient, one area that could see significant gains is in the processing of construction and demolition (C&D) waste.
A research team at Monash University’s Automation and Sustainability in Construction and Intelligent Infrastructure Lab has begun work on developing robotic sorting arms that can recognise and sort individual pieces of material from C&D waste, with the aim of reducing the amount of waste dumped in landfill and creating a safer work environment for material processing staff.
The initial stage involves photographing the contents of construction site skips across Melbourne and training computer vision-based models on how to recognise and categorise a wide range of materials.
This was led by Monash PhD candidate Diani Sirimewan, who says that C&D waste was chosen as the focus for this research due to the untapped potential for achieving greater levels of recycling, through
artificial intelligence including computer vision and robotics.
“Whenever a building is constructed, demolished or renovated, a vast amount of waste is generated,” she says.
Robotic sorting arms are being developed to recognise and sort individual pieces of material from C&D waste. Image: Monash University
“Unfortunately, most of this waste is disposed of in landfills and the amount of C&D waste is increasing day by day. This obviously creates environmental, land use and economic challenges, but the potential exists to recycle many of the materials found in this waste.
“For example, the concrete pieces that came from demolition sites can be washed and reused as road base or backfill material, while timber can be reused in landscaping. However, in skip bins at construction sites, the waste is mixed together and can contain concrete, timber, metal, glass, plasterboard, plastic, etc. So, we have to sort it and separate it for recycling.”
Risky work
It is this sorting of C&D waste to separate out recyclable materials that poses significant challenges for waste sorting facilities and their staff,
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with the process being time consuming and potentially hazardous.
“At the moment, sorting is a manual process where workers have to laboriously sift through these heavy pieces of waste, which are often contaminated with material such as asbestos, exposing themselves to occupational health and safety risks,” Sirimewan says.
“Therefore, we propose the solution of employing computer visionbased technology to automate this waste handling process at material recovery facilities where the system-assisted cameras identify the composition of materials in cluttered waste streams, including the contaminants, and pick out the valuable items that can be recycled using robotic arms.”
Sirimewan says that it isn’t just a safer approach to sorting waste – using robotic arms could also
speed up the process and increase the amount of recyclable material separated out.
“One site we visited had more than 60 bins of construction waste to separate and the process currently is to lay out all of the waste on the floor and have eight to 10 labourers separate out valuable materials, with the rest sent to landfill,” she says.
“In that case more than half of the waste went to landfill because they had so many bins to process that day.
“Although we haven’t reached the point of comparing our robotic sorting arms with manual picking, previous studies have shown that robots are more efficient at this process and have already been employed in some countries.”
The system uses a method called segmentation to recognise waste objects, where each object in a waste stream is scanned and analysed. If
A visualisation of how the robotic sorting arm recognises waste.
a suitable match is found, the item is categorised as being a particular material.
“Let’s say there’s a piece of concrete inside the mixed construction waste,” Sirimewan says.
“The model draws a boundary around the object and it can mark it with a particular colour. In our proposed model, concrete was coloured green while timber was blue.
“I am currently working on a user-guided segmentation system, where the user can draw a box around an object and the model will automatically segment it, or you can use a text prompt (i.e. timber) and the model will automatically segment the timber particles it can see within a waste bin for example. This can be used for pre-screening of materials as well as sorting of the waste.”
Removing contamination
With concerns about recycled mulch and soil derived from C&D waste being contaminated with asbestos and other foreign objects, Sirimewan says a similar system could be employed as a quality control measure for recycling businesses, which will require further research.
“Over the next few months of my PhD, I’m focusing on anomaly detection, to detect contaminants that fall outside of the main material categories like concrete, timber, cardboard and plastic, so the system can flag these to the user.
“This is for quality assurance of a recycled product, so before sending it out to customers, you can check whether there are anomalies. In the case of asbestos being found in mulch, if you’re recycling timber for example, you can lay out the recycled material on a conveyor belt and check for contaminants.”
This research was published in the Journal of Environmental Management and can be accessed at doi.org/10.1016/j. jenvman.2023.119908. For more information, email Diani Sirimewan at diani.sirimewan@monash.edu
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Mecalac has unveiled the eMDX, the first 100 per cent electric 6 tonne dumper in the world
Mecalac has unveiled the eMDX, which it says is the world’s first 100 per cent electric 6 tonne dumper, designed for sustainable urban construction.
The eMDX features a 75 kWh battery, offering at least eight hours of uninterrupted operation and a rapid four hour recharge.
Mecalac says the dumper maintains the performance of its diesel counterpart, the 6MDX, with superior acceleration and manoeuvrability on slopes.
Mecalac’s electric ecosystem includes the eS1000 swing loader and the e12 wheel loader, significantly reducing CO2 emissions on worksites, the company adds.
The zero-emission machines can be operated inside buildings, offering reduced noise pollution and lower maintenance and operating costs.
The eMDX is powered by a type 2 plug, similar to that used in electric cars, offering a convenient solution thanks to the more widely available charging points.
It can also be recharged via a 5-pin industrial socket, directly on a switchboard or site unit.
Large-scale launch
Terex has launched its new Magna range of crushers, screeners and conveyors – addressing the demands of large-scale operations in the quarrying, mining, construction and recycling industries
Terex, a leading provider of compact and mid-sized crushing and screening equipment, has launched its new brand Magna.
Joining Terex’s portfolio of existing brands – including Powerscreen and Finlay – Magna will cater to larger scale operations in the quarrying, mining, construction and recycling industries.
Under the strapline ‘made for more’, Terex says Magna will offer a new range of robust, high-capacity machinery that is tailored to meet the needs of customers who require larger output and volumes.
“While we have a prominent position in the global market for compact and mid-sized materials processing equipment, Magna will position us to serve customers requiring higher output machines, via our renowned and extensive global distribution network,” Terex Aggregates vice president Pat Brian says.
“With an ambitious product roadmap and supported by Terexwide engineering, manufacturing, marketing, parts and service capabilities, Magna will provide significant growth potential for Terex.”
The line-up includes the MT120J and Mt130J jaw crushers, the latter
equipped with a Terex 1300 x 1000mm (51” x 39”) single toggle jaw crusher, capable of accepting feed sizes up to 900mm.
The MT400X heavy duty mobile cone crusher is 1372mm (54”) in diameter, well suited to abrasive aggregates, while the range also includes two horizontal screeners, a scalping screen and a heavy duty trommell.
Terex says Magna’s newly appointed business line director Neil McIlwaine is spearheading the launch. Having previously worked for Finlay, Terex says he has completed several successful assignments in China and South Africa to establish and increase Finlay’s distribution footprint and continued growth strategy globally.
“Magna truly is made for more; with equipment that is designed to have more power to handle more material throughput efficiently, ensuring more productivity and more costeffectiveness for customers,” McIlwaine says.
“Large and robust crushing and screening equipment is essential for quarries and other operations that require high output and volumes.”
The eMDX is the world’s first fully electric 6 tonne dumper. Image: Mecalac
Magna will serve customers who require higher output machines. Image: Terex
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Deakin DVC research and innovation
Professor Matthew Clarke, Institute for Frontier Materials director Prof Sally McArthur, CSIRO chief scientist and Carbon Nexus co-founder Prof Bronwyn Fox, Carbon Nexus research group leader Prof Russell Varley. Image: Deakin University
Carbon celebration
Australia’s home of carbon fibre celebrates ten years of achievements
The research facility that produced Australia’s first home-grown carbon fibre celebrated its tenth anniversary in May this year.
Deakin University’s Carbon Nexus is home to the world’s largest open access carbon fibre pilot production line, supporting the development of carbon fibre products and technologies in Geelong for a critical global industry.
Located in the heart of Deakin’s Future Economy Precinct at the Waurn Ponds campus, Carbon Nexus has partnered with leading global companies including Vestas, PETRONAS, the Ford Motor Company, SABIC, Boeing and Solvay.
Importantly, Carbon Nexus produced the first ever entirely home-grown Australian carbon fibre shortly after its establishment in 2014.
Carbon Nexus was the catalyst for over 1,400 jobs and counting in the Geelong region, employing skilled workers displaced by the closure of local manufacturing between 2014 and 2016.
Additionally, Carbon Nexus also attracted Quickstep Holdings to move its automotive R&D from Germany to Geelong in 2015, fostering collaboration between Quickstep and Deakin for broader partnership opportunities.
The facility also significantly contributed to Carbon Revolution’s growth, which is expected to achieve approximately $22.2m ($14.8m USD) in revenue this year.
Deakin deputy vice-chancellor of research and innovation, Professor Matthew Clarke, describes the continued impact of Carbon Nexus as a demonstration of Deakin’s commitment to local and global impact through partnerships and collaboration.
Hyundai compact
HD Hyundai Construction Equipment North America adds four models to HX-A series
HD Hyundai Construction Equipment North America has introduced four new models in its HX-A series of compact hydraulic excavators.
The Hyundai HX17AZ, HX27AZ, HX55ACR and HX60A excavators fill in the company’s line of compact excavators, the first models of which debuted at CONEXPO in 2023.
With these four new machines, the Hyundai HX-A series compact excavator line now includes eight models.
All four new models feature lowemission engines that are Tier 4 Final compliant.
The Hyundai HX17AZ excavator is powered by a Kubota D902 diesel engine with a net power rating of 16.0 hp (11.9 kW), the HX27AZ features a Kubota D1305 engine rated at 24.4 hp (18.2 kW), the HX55ACR uses a Yanmar 4TNV86CT engine that delivers 47.6 hp (35.5 kW), and the HX60A employs a Hyundai DM02VB engine rated 63.0 hp (47.0 kW) at 2,400 rpm.
Both the HX17AZ and HX27AZ models are true zero tail-swing machines for working in confined or busy spaces. The HX55ACR is a compact-radius model.
“Hyundai HX-A Series compact excavators set the new standard in compact equipment,” says Jeff Pate, VP of compact sales, HD Hyundai Construction Equipment North America.
“These machines represent a new
Hyundai’s HC55ACR is one of four new additions to the company’s HX-A series of compact hydraulic excavators.
Image: Hyundai CE
generation of technology built on decades of Hyundai engineering and manufacturing excellence.
“What we hear from contractors since introducing the HX-A series models last year is that when they purchase a ‘base’ model from Hyundai, they appreciate it comes packed with standard features.”
All four models feature a 5 inch (127mm). full color LCD monitor. Standard boom, arm and bucket cylinder guards protect the digging end of the machine. Other standard features include a hydraulic quick coupler and an integrated utility lifting hook.
The HX17AZ has an operating weight of 1,980 kg, dig depth of 2.44 m, and bucket breakout force of 1,664 kgf.
The HX5527AZ has an operating weight of 2,478 kg in its canopy configuration, dig depth of 2.7 m, and bucket breakout force of 2,093 kgf.
The HX55ACR has an operating weight of 5,715 kg, dig depth of 3.86 m, and 3,789 kgf bucket breakout force.
The HX60A in its standard cab configuration has an operating weight of 6,160 kg, dig depth of 3.77 m, and bucket breakout force of 4,292 kgf.
The new rooftop cooler from Diamond Mowers aims to offer superior cooling capabilities for skid-steers
Diamond Mowers has unveiled its new rooftop cooler to the US market, which the company says offers superior cooling capabilities for skid-steers.
Engineered to minimise the risk of hydraulic overheating when mowing and mulching, the new SK Rooftop Cooler from Diamond Mowers is the latest addition to the company’s line of skid-steer attachments and accessories.
Exclusively compatible with select Bobcat R Series and John Deere models, the specialised cooling system mounts to the roof of skid-steers and CTLs.
Designed for forestry and land clearing operations, Diamond Mowers says its rooftop cooler provides operators with superior cooling capabilities to help reduce downtime and increase operating hours per day with a heat rejection capability of 140,000 BTU per hour.
“ Mowing and mulching applications are among the most demanding on a hydraulic system, with high loads accompanying high heat,” says Dan Stachel, executive vice president of Diamond Mowers.
“If this heat is not dispersed effectively, it can lead to fluid degradation, reduced performance, overheating and even equipment failure – all of which can negatively impact productivity.
“To help keep operators up and running, we built a solution that ensures optimal cooling performance and extends the life of expensive hydraulic components like valves, pumps, and motors.”
Diamond’s Rooftop Cooler weighs just 118kg and comes with mounting brackets that enable installation to the cab of a carrier without the need for drilling or welding.
Keeping the system cool are two 30cm auto-reversing electric fans, which allow oil to quickly reach its optimal temperature before turning to prevent overheating.
Battery dump truck
A battery powered dump truck developed by Hitachi and ABB is currently being tested at a mine in Zambia
Hitachi Construction Machinery has announced the start of the world’s first technological feasibility trial of an ultra-large full battery rigid frame dump truck by an OEM.
The trial, which began in June, is being conducted at First Quantum’s Kansanshi deep open-pit coppergold mine in Zambia, one of the company’s largest mines.
The technological feasibility trial aims to verify the basic performance of operations required of a batterypowered dump truck – such as travelling, turning and stopping – under actual operating loads, as well as the verification of battery charging and discharging cycles.
The full battery dump truck was jointly developed with ABB Ltd, and is able to continuously operate practically in sites by directly charging from the overhead lines and regenerative braking system without needing to stop, and charging through the adoption of the battery system developed by ABB.
In addition, limiting the battery volume reduces the battery weight as a percentage of the overall vehicle weight and helps maximise the load capacity to display a high level of cost performance, Hitachi says.
Hitachi began collaborating with ABB in June 2021 to develop the full battery dump truck.
The company completed the test machine version of a full battery dump truck, and on January 20, 2024, this test machine was shipped to First Quantum.
The assembly of the test unit was recently completed in Zambia, and the technological feasibility trial began.
The Hitachi Construction Machinery Group says it will accelerate its efforts to put the full battery dump truck into practical use.
“Mining companies around the world are working to reduce emissions,” says Hitachi Construction Machinery’s vice president and executive officer, president of mining business unit, Eiji Fukunishi.
“As an original equipment manufacturer, it is our vision to provide solutions that can reduce our customers’ environmental footprint.
“The battery dump truck represents the future, not only for the Hitachi Construction Machinery Group but for the mining industry as a whole, and we are pleased to establish this proving ground on an active mine site and work with First Quantum on advancing this zero emission solution,” he says.
The Diamond Mowers rooftop cooler installed on a Bobcat machine. Image: Diamond Mowers
Hitachi’s full battery dump truck in operation at a Zambian mine site. Image: Hitachi
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Bobcat has launched updated versions of its M-Series S630 and S650 skid steer loaders to the European market
Bobcat’s new Stage V versions of its M-Series S630 and S650 skid steer loaders have been released.
Featuring a radius lift path, the S630 model has a rated operating capacity of 1,012kg and a tipping load of 2,023kg.
Providing easy mobility in tight areas, Bobcat says the S630 has the reach and visibility needed for applications such as dumping materials over walls, backfilling or loading flatbed trucks.
The S650 skid steer features vertical lift path boom arms suited to lift and carry as well as material-handling applications, Bobcat says. The S650 also provides heavier rated operating capacity – at 1,227kg and a heavier tipping load at 2,455kg.
“Both models continue to offer excellent versatility through compatibility with a very wide range of Bobcat attachments,” Bobcat says.
Both skid steer models are powered by a Bobcat D24 engine that features a Bosch fuel injection system.
“With the engine situated transversally in the S630 and S650, these models have maintained their compact size, allowing the machines to operate and turn in the same small tight spaces,” Bobcat says.
New engine technology is provided in both models, which results in lower fuel consumption for the same type of work, it adds.
The base S630 and S650 models are equipped with a new control panel, which includes a keyless start function.
Bobcat customers will now have a wider selection in this size of machine, with a choice between the M-Series S630 and S650 models, and the R-Series S66 and S76 machines.
First Develon mini
Develon North America has launched a company-first mini wheel excavator suited to job sites where space is limited
The DX100W-7 mini wheel excavator is the first of-its-kind from Develon in North America and of the fastest mini excavators on the market at 38.6km/h (24mph), the company announced.
“We’re excited to continue to expand our compact equipment line with the DX100W-7,” Develon mini excavator product manager and compact engineer Andy Jeong says.
“It has several features and technologies for excellent performance, efficiency and highend comfort.”
With different steering, power and work modes, operators can customise the machine’s performance to move and work in the way the operator would like.
Develon says the two-wheel steering mode provides better agility and handling, as well as delivering increased fuel economy, while the four-wheel crab mode offers precision and manoeuvrability in tight spaces – without the need to reposition the entire machine. The four-wheel round mode gives a tighter turning radius and increased traction and control.
Operators can choose from four work modes – one-way, two-way, digging and lifting – and four power modes – power plus, power, standard and economy – to customise power and performance.
Suited to tight spaces in roadway
and urban environments, Develon says operators don’t have to close a second lane of traffic when working. A large boom allows the mini wheel excavator to reach farther and access hard-to-reach areas.
Maximum comfort is provided in the DX100W-7, with Develon saying that it features one of the largest cabs in the market. A large full-length glass door allows for easy entry and exit, while also providing increased visibility from inside the cab.
To further enhance comfort, the excavator comes as standard with a fully adjustable heated airsuspension seat as well as heating and air conditioning.
Also available as standard on the machine are double tyres to increase traction and agility on challenging terrain.
Increasing job site safety, the DX100W-7 comes standard with an around view monitor (AWM) camera system which provides a 270-degree view and ultrasonic sensors. Develon says these sensors alert operators of nearby objects as the machine is put into reverse.
To protect the machine from wear and tear, an overload warning device is included, alerting operators when the excavator is approaching or exceeding either its maximum load capacity or safe operating limits.
Bobcat’s M-Series S630 and S650 provide lower fuel consumption. Image: Bobcat
Operators can customise the DX100W-7’s performance with different steering, power and work modes. Image: Develon
MINI EXCAVATOR
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Leica Geosystems has launched its first machine smart antenna, the Leica iCON 120
Leica Geosystems’ new Leica iCON GPS 120 is a smart antenna designed for machine control and is integrated into the existing Leica MC1 solution platform.
Leica Geosystems says that thanks to its flexibility, scalability and modularity, the smart antenna extends the machine control solution offering to more applications and machine types.
Construction machines such as compaction rollers, which usually require only sub-metre accuracy without heading, can now be equipped with a tailor-made Leica MC1 machine control solution.
This allows streamlined operations and consistent workflows between heavy construction equipment that vary in application requirements, Leica Geosystems says.
Using the Leica MC1 machine control solution enables more accurate and quicker task completion, significantly enhanced fleet efficiency, reduced waste and more environmentally friendly operations, the company adds.
“Leica Geosystems’ innovative and flexible solutions are robust enablers of digital construction workflows,” Leica Geosystems vice president of heavy construction and machine control field solutions Tommi Kauppinen says.
“The iCON gps 120 machine smart antenna expands the machine control technology possibilities on the construction site by offering scalable solutions to even more machines and applications.”
Diesel-electric collab
Contract miner Byrnecut is working with manufacturer Sandvik to develop new diesel-electric mining equipment
Byrnecut and Sandvik will work together to develop underground loaders and trucks featuring electric drivetrains. The overall goal is to create equipment that matches Byrnecut’s specific capability requirements and helps optimise operations.
“Diesel-electric equipment has a proven ability to combine the lowmaintenance benefits of electric machines with the flexibility of diesel,” Byrnecut Australia managing director Pat Boniwell says.
“We have a long association with Sandvik and we’re pleased to be providing input and feedback that will help shape the new Sandvik diesel-electric range. We’re also looking forward to passing benefits of this collaboration on to our customers.”
Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions president Mats Eriksson says the future of mining is likely to include a combination of multiple coexisting technologies.
“An immediate switch to full battery-electric isn’t feasible for every operation,” Eriksson says.
“We have extensive expertise in both battery-electric and conventional diesel technology within Sandvik, and we believe combining this expertise will lead to new productive solutions for our customers. We’re delighted that Byrnecut is sharing its knowledge of underground and will provide feedback to help us develop the best diesel-electric loaders and trucks.”
Unlike conventional diesel, dieselelectric machines generally have
no torque converter and fewer rotating components, allowing for a more flexible design, requiring less maintenance and enabling lower operating costs.
Sandvik announced last year that it was moving ahead with developing a diesel-electric range of underground loaders and trucks to complement its battery-electric offering. The decision followed the showcasing of Sandvik’s Toro diesel-electric truck demonstrator to customers at a technology workshop in Turku, Finland in 2022.
The collaboration between Sandvik and Byrnecut will initially involve establishing a common vision for optimising Sandvik diesel-electric machines for Byrnecut’s needs. Byrnecut will then work together with Sandvik on the design of the machines and provide feedback at various testing stages, including pre-factory testing, operational testing and trial testing.
Boniwell says Byrnecut is exploring a wide range of different technologies and is eager to embrace innovations that reduce costs, improve safety and increase productivity and sustainability.
“It’s likely the transition to batteryelectric will be a gradual process with both electric, diesel and potentially diesel-electric machines operating side by side in the meantime,” he says.
A worker demonstrating how to use the new Leica
The agreement was signed between Byrnecut and Sandvik at Electric Mine 2024. Image: Sandvik MINING
Develon’s DX10Z-7 is a compact and easily transportable machine. Image: Develon
EXCAVATOR
Develon 1-tonne mini
Develon, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, has released a new 1-tonne mini excavator that is easy to transport
Develon has launched a 1-tonne DX10Z-7 zero tail swing mini excavator that the company says provides improved performance to the previous DX10Z model it replaces.
Compact and easy to transport, the mini excavator has a width of 730mm when the tracks and front blade are fully retracted – allowing the machine to pass through doors.
A hydraulic expandable undercarriage provides the DX10Z-7 with one of the widest stances for mini excavators, Develon says. When it is extended, the width of the square footprint becomes 1,100 mm, providing extra stability.
To make access to job sites even easier, a foldable tip-over protective structure (TOPS) canopy comes as standard on this model.
With an engine output of 7.6kW (10.35hp), the mini excavator is highlighted by a new 1.45m boom design and increased arm length – from 810 to 890mm. Develon says this results in a significantly enhanced working range compared to the previous DX10Z model it replaces.
This includes a 21.5 per cent rise in dump height of 2,205 mm and an 8.5 per cent increase in digging reach at ground level of 3,355 mm.
Despite its compact nature, Develon says the DX10Z-7 doesn’t compromise on operator comfort or safety.
“The DX10Z-7 features a swivel and tilting system for the consoles and a retractable seat belt as start,” the company says.
“For increased safety, the DX10Z-7 also incorporates an LED boom lamp as standard.”
EXCAVATORS
Heavy crawler duo
Two Hyundai crawler excavators launched at UK’s largest earthmoving event
HD Hyundai has debuted its largest Stage V crawler excavators, with the 80-tonne and 100-tonne machines shown for the first time at Hillhead 2024 in the UK.
The 80-tonne HX800A L and the 100-tonne HX1000A L crawler excavators have been designed to operate in mines and quarries, as well as bulk earthmoving for construction and infrastructure project applications, HD Hyundai Construction Equipment announced.
Both heavy duty machines are powered by Perkins diesel engines, which the company says delivers class-leading power.
The HX800A L uses the sixcylinder Perkins 2506J, providing 539 horsepower (400kW), while the larger HX1000A L is powered by the Perkins 2806J, offering 629hp (460kW).
“These heavyweight excavators will build on HD Hyundai’s presence at the heavier end of the market across Europe, providing a highly productive digging and loading solution for mines, quarries, bulk earthmoving contractors and heavy civil engineering sites,” HD Hyundai product manager Gert Peeters says.
An electronic hydraulic power
The 100-tonne HX1000A L crawler excavator. Image: HD Hyundai
control system is equipped on both excavators, minimising fuel consumption, while increasing digging efficiency, HD Hyundai says. This system utilises nine sensors across the machine to calculate the required flow and pump output, delivering maximum efficiency.
The heavy-duty excavator duo has four operating modes and four power modes, working in combination with Variable-Speed Control and PumpTorque Control. HD Hyundai says this allows the operator to select specific engine and hydraulic system outputs to suit the task at hand.
Describing both cabs as ‘state-ofthe-art’, HD Hyundai says operators are offered level two falling object protective structure (FOPS) protection – when equipped with a FOPS guard.
To absorb shocks, the cab is suspended on vibration damping mounts.
Both machines also come with HD Hyundai’s All-Around View Monitoring (AVM) camera system, providing the operator with a 360degree view around the working area.
Bobcat describes new utility tractors as “versatile workhorses”
TRACTORS
Bobcat tractors
Bobcat introduces utility tractors for heavy-duty work
Bobcat is expanding its tractor lineup with the launch of three utility tractors - the Bobcat UT6066, UT6566 and UT6573.
The company says its utility tractors are built for heavy-duty work, and that they make it easier for operators of all experience levels to accomplish more on their acreage.
“Designed with intuitive, operatorfriendly controls, Bobcat utility tractors are dependable, easy to operate, and highly versatile machines that maximise performance and productivity,” says Jonathan Widmer, Bobcat senior product specialist.
“There’s less demand on operators so they can focus more on leaving behind great results, whether they’re putting an implement to work or moving material with the tractor’s loader.”
Bobcat utility tractors feature 12x12 power shuttle transmissions that deliver shifting without stepping onto a clutch pedal.
Powered by turbocharged, Tier 4 diesel engines, these versatile workhorses offer robust, high-power performance with impressive low-end torque, plus an efficient fuel system, the company adds.
A climate-controlled cab comes standard on the UT6566 and UT6573. The utility tractors also feature wide glass panels, visibility to the three point hitch, power and tilt steering, and ergonomic controls.
Bobcat says that its optional front-end loader is easy to attach and disconnect, with free-standing capability when removed.
It comes with the Bobcat Bob-Tach attachment mounting system for quick and easy attachment changes and an integrated hydraulic valve for powered attachment operations.
JCB expansion
JCB marks biggest ever investment as work begins on its new $740.5 million factory in Texas
JCB recently began work on a new $740.5 million (US$500 million) factory in North America, which JCB says is its biggest investment to date.
The start of construction was signalled at an official groundbreaking ceremony on June 4 at the site in San Antonio, Texas, where The Hon. Alice Bamford, daughter of company Chairman Anthony Bamford, cut the first sod of earth.
Work on the 720,000 sq. ft (67,000 square metre) factory is under way on the 400-acre site and will create 1,500 new jobs over five years, JCB says.
It will be the company’s second largest plant, rivalled only by the manufacturer’s World HQ in Rocester, Staffordshire, UK.
The factory will make Loadall telescopic handlers and aerial access equipment, with production scheduled to start in 2026. The factory will also have the capacity to expand into the manufacturing of other products in the future.
“Construction equipment manufacturers sell more than 300,000 machines every year in North America, making it the single largest market in the world,” JCB chairman Lord Bamford says.
“JCB has been growing its share of this important market steadily over the past few years and the time is now right to invest in our manufacturing capacity in North America, where we already have one factory.
“JCB really has come a considerable way since we sold our first machine here 60 years ago and it gives me immense pleasure to see how our business has grown in North America.
“Today really is a milestone day in the history of our family company.”
JCB North America president and CEO Richard Fox-Marrs adds: “The Loadall telescopic handler is JCB’s biggest selling product in North America and it is also the single largest market for aerial access equipment worldwide, and therefore, it makes great sense to build these two ranges here.
“Texas is an obvious choice for our new North American manufacturing facility, not least because the state is the largest consumer of construction equipment in the USA.
“San Antonio is also the logical choice as a location for our new factory because of its central location, proximity to the supply chain and great local labour force. We are really excited about JCB’s new San Antonio factory and for the future of our business in North America.”
JCB sold its first machine in North America in 1964 and opened its first manufacturing plant there in 2001 in Savannah, Georgia, which employs 1,000 people. The new facility will manufacture machines for customers specifically in North America.
FACTORY
A computer generated image of JCB’s new factory. Image: JCB
Event News
construction events
Here are upcoming events for 2024. Information was current as of going to press
Queensland Mining Expo – Mackay
Queensland Mining Expo (QME) connects leading suppliers and technical experts with those seeking better efficiency, better productivity and increased optimisation for their business and site. QME will feature over 230 suppliers as well as a free-to-attend seminar series that will give visitors the opportunity to hear from industry professionals who will address the current needs of the industry. With live demonstrations and topical presentations, QME will be the ultimate destination for the QLD mining industry.
WHEN: July 23–25, 2024
MORE INFO: www.queenslandminingexpo.com.au
Australasian Waste & Recycling Expo –Sydney
The waste, recycling and resource recovery industry is continuing to transform and has quickly become the nucleus for driving Australia towards a cleaner, more sustainable future. AWRE is designed for waste professionals to join forces and work towards this common goal.
WHEN: July 24–25, 2024
MORE INFO: awre.com.au
Timber Construct 2024 – Melbourne
Organised by the Timber Development Association, the Timber Construct Conference and Exhibition represents Australian forestry, timber manufacturing and timber construction interests.
WHEN: August 12–13, 2024
MORE INFO: timberoffsiteconstruction.com
Workplace Health and Safety Show –Sydney
The Workplace Health and Safety Show will feature a program of events including live demonstrations, seminars, interactive forums and round table discussions on health, wellbeing, manual handling, major hazards, innovation, technology advancements, new safety products, injury prevention and height safety, amongst other topics.
WHEN: September 4–5, 2024
MORE INFO: www.whsshow.com.au
International Future Mining Conference – Sydney
The 6th International Future Mining Conference is organised by AusIMM and UNSW Sydney and will cover topics such as digital transformation, mining in extreme environments, future skills requirements and innovations in energy and decarbonisation.
WHEN: September 2–4, 2024
MORE INFO: www.ausimm.com/conferences-andevents/future-mining
Henty Machinery Field Days – Henty
Located in the heart of the nation’s food bowl in southern NSW, Henty Machinery Field Days is an agribusiness supermarket attracting more than 60,000 visitors each year.
WHEN: September 17–19, 2024
MORE INFO: hmfd.com.au
NT Resources Week – Darwin
NT Resources Week combines three resource and construction industry events – the South East Asia Australia Offshore & Onshore Conference (SEAAOC), Mining the Territory and the Environmental Management & Decarbonisation Forum. It has fast become the leading meeting point for captains of industry in mining, exploration, petroleum, oil/gas, engineering, construction and infrastructure.
WHEN: September 18–19, 2024
MORE INFO: ntresourcesweek.com.au
Bulk Expo and MegaTrans –Melbourne
A dedicated exhibition for the bulk solids handling industry, the Bulk Expo showcases bulk solids transport solutions for domestic and international trade. The event will feature an expansive trade show, showcasing the latest solutions for the industry, as well as hosting an informative twoday conference. Hosted alongside Bulk Expo at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, MegaTrans focuses on the sustainable supply chain of the future, with exhibitors showcasing technology and initiatives for the logistics industry.
WHEN: September 18–19, 2024
MORE INFO: Bulk2024 – www.bulkhandlingexpo. com.au / MegaTrans – https://megatrans.com.au
Elmore Machinery Field Days –Elmore
Begun in 1964, Elmore Machinery Field Days is one of Australia’s key agricultural field days, held at Elmore Event Centre in Victoria. A large number of exhibitors cover earthmoving machinery, GPS and guidance equipment, laser and levelling equipment, IT and lifting machinery, among other categories.
WHEN: October 1–3, 2024
MORE INFO: www.elmorefielddays.com.au
WA Mining Conference – Perth
WA Mining Conference will focus on the best practices, technologies and strategies advancing mining in Western Australia to help you increase production, lower costs and prepare for a sustainable future. WA Mining Conference will address the most important issues shaping mining in WA.
WHEN: October 9–10, 2024
MORE INFO: www.waminingexpo.com.au
& USED PARTS AVAILABLE
x EX200-5
x EX210-5
x EX210H-5
x EX220-2
x EX220-3
1 x EX220-5
2 x EX230H-5 1 x EX270-1 1 x EX350H-5 1 x ZX35U-2 1 x ZX50U 2 x ZX50U-2 1 x ZX135US-3
1 x ZX135US-5B
3 x ZX200-3
1 x ZX200H-3
1 x ZX225USR
1 x ZX230
1 x ZX250H-3
3 x ZX270LC-3
1 x ZX35U-3F
1 x ZX330
1 x ZX330-3
2 x ZX330-3
2 x ZX330LC-3
1 x ZX350H-3
1 x ZX350LCH-3
HYUNDAI
1 x R140LCD-7
1 x R160LC-7
1 x R145CR-9
IHI
1 x IHI30
1 x IHI30J
1 x IHI30JX
2 x IHI45J
1 x IHI45UJ
1 x IHI55UJ
KATO
1 x HD1023
KOBELCO
1 x SK280MSR-1E
1 x SK40SR
1 x SK40SR-3
1 x SK45SR-3
1 x SK50SR-3 1 x SK75UR-3 2 x SK80MSR
x SK120-5 2 x SK220-5 1 x SK130UR 1 x SK135SR 1 x SK135SR-1
2 x SK135SR-2 1 x SK135SR-5 1 x SK200-3 1 x SK220-3 1 x SK220-5 1 x SK260LC-8 1 x SK360-8
KOMATSU
1 x PC05-7
1 x PC28UU-2 2 x PC30-7 1 x PC30FR 1 x PC30MR 1 x PC30MR-1 1 x PC50FR-1 1 x PC50MR 2 x PC50UU-1 3 x PC50UU-2 1 x PC60-7 1 x PC70FR-1 1 x PC75UU-1
4 x PC75UU-2
1 x PC75UU-3
1 x PC78MR-6 1 x PC138US-2 1 x PC200-7 1 x PC210-8 1 x PC220-3
1 x PC220LC-8 1 x PC228US-3 1 x PC228USLC-3 1 x PC228UU 1 x PC300-7 1 x PC300-8
KUBOTA 1 x KH52SR 1 x KX71-3 1 x KX101
1 x KX121-2
LIBRA 1 x 118SV MITSUBISHI 1 x MM55SR
NEW HOLLAND 1 x E35B 1 x E35SR
SAMSUNG 1 x SE55 2 x SE130LC-2 1 x SE240LC-2 3 x SE240LC-3 1 x SE280LC
x SE280LC-2
x SE210-2
SE210LC-2
SUMITOMO
x SH60-1
x SH75X-3
x SH135X-2
x SH210-5
x SH210LC-5
x SH300A-2
x SH350H-5
x SH350HD-3
x SH350HD-5 TAKEUCHI
x TB138FR VOLVO
x EC240B
x EC240BLC
x EC240CL YANMAR 1 x B27-2 1 x VIO27-5 1 x VIO40-2
x VIO50 1 x VIO50-2
x VIO55-5B
x VIO70 2 x VIO75 1 x VIO75-A
DOOSAN DX225LCB HITACHI ZX225USR CATERPILLAR 336DL CASE 210B
BLUE METAL. 230acre property for sale, large amount of quality metal Test reveal material is suitable for concrete aggregate, road base & ceiling aggregate. Land zoned white, close to rail, plenty of water, 3 phase power. Lowmead area. Ph: 0427 135 554 or 07 4312 1010 QLD. (EMP-343-01)
BUCKETS. New, used & hire. 250ton-1ton, includes 4 in 1’s, loaders, tilts, sorting, rake, clamshell, grapple, trapezoid, telehandler, hammer buckets. MISU screening buckets. Flipscreens, M.B crusher buckets. Photos emailed. Cheap Austwide freight. Ph: 03 9719 7483, 0433 372 416. (EMP-340-03)
SOLAR POWERED Variable message boards. Techroad 8600, Ditchwitch JT820. Also light towers, trailer mounted. Wacker, Almand Bros. Free rolls. Hire & sale. Photos emailed. Cheap Austwide freight. Ph: 03 9719 7483 or 0433 372 416 (EMP-340-08)
PARTS FOR SALE
ASSORTED PARTS. Lots of rubber tracks. 950 R.O.P.S. Rock Buster 1220, New D155 triple bar grousers, 26.5 x 25 x 28 ply tyres. D65 rollers, combination roller, concrete saws, loader rims & diffs, ZF & Hamworthy, track bases 20 & 30ton. Cheap Austwide freight. Ph: 03 9719 7483, 0433 372 416. (EMP-340-05)
HYDRAULIC EQUIPMENT. Hydraulic motors and pumps, power packs Defence Force, electric & diesel with piston pumps. Many reco piston pumps, elect valve banks, control banks & rams etc… Cheap Austwide freight. Ph: 03 9719 7483, 0433 372 416. (EMP-340-06)
YANMAR EXCAVATOR V1035-3/5, new hydraulic pump. Yanmar final drives V1020-3. V1027-2/3/5, V1035-2/3/5, V1055-5/5B, + hyd slew motor, V1055-5 complete new pins and bushes set for slew/boom/ arm. V1075A yellow slew motor and reduction. Yanmar quickhitch, new switch box 17295817101. Sumitomo slew motor/reduction assy SH1203+5. Ph: 0417 036 866 or (03) 5917 0222 VIC. (EMP-347-01)
PRENTICE7,000KGSWL forklifttruckramps (8)topickfrom.Ideal for shippingcontainers. Forsaleorhire.R3274. TA96974. $12,000+GST=$13,200ForSaleorHire
Sprightly unit
Appropriate repair of cracks and checking of corrosion will help ensure longevity of equipment.
Image: Stephen Coburn/ Shutterstock
In the first of our series on forklift maintenance and safety, we look at cracking and corrosion in older equipment.
Speaking at the Workplace Health and Safety Show in May, Crown Equipment general manager – product development Mike Croxford said metal fatigue can be caused by either the machine’s age or wear and tear caused by its operating environment.
“The first sign of metal fatigue is usually you get cracks that start to grow in welds and welds in structural areas, and they would tend to be on your mast mounts, your drivetrain mounts in your chassis, and can be in other areas that are loaded depending on the types of fork trucks,” he said.
“Typically, if you have a cracked weld, it may be feasible to repair it, and usually that repair would involve grinding the weld out and providing a preparation so you can do a full penetration weld to get the original strength back in the structural joint.”
Repairing a crack in this way is usually feasible if the crack remains solely within a weld, he said.
“Where you have a crack that’s penetrated through the parent metal that the weld is supporting, that’s when you need to have a structural assessment,” he said.
It may be possible to stop a crack in the parent metal by using a method like the “end drill” method, where a hole is drilled through the parent metal at the end (or tip) of the crack.
“However a crack can be fatal [for the equipment] if it’s penetrated into the system so far that you cannot make a repair where you can guarantee the safety of the equipment.”
These include protective structures like overhead guards, which can never have the integrity of the original when repaired – as the standard to which they are tested is a destructive one that cannot be replicated.
“What we usually recommend with customers when they are looking at
the condition of older equipment is to clean down the truck, remove the paint and do an initial inspection of the weld through something like a dye penetrant test to identify any infantile cracks or any surface cracks,” he said.
“If you find cracks, it’s worthwhile to follow that up with a more rigorous approach, whether it be through a mag particle test, through an X ray or something similar, where you can see the depth of penetration of cracks.”
Croxford said when these issues are found the best first step is to consult the manufacturer, or if they no longer exist, a structural engineer.
Assessing levels of corrosion on the vehicle, as well as what types of treatments might be available, is also key to safe operation, he added.
“It may be that you need to talk to a corrosion expert about how you can mitigate further corrosion, and if you can do any treatments to repair where there’s significant corrosion,” he said.
Moving parts such as lift chains and mast tilting systems were also prone to corrosion – needing lubricant to get into pins and threaded connections.
“If they’re not maintained correctly, they will rust and get frozen joints. Some manufacturers will provide rubber boots that will protect the tilt cylinders, and I would encourage you, if they’re available, to fit those.”
Where equipment sits unused for long stretches, careful storage is key to ensuring they remain in good condition, Croxford added.
“Some things to consider are if you need to put it up on chocks so that you don’t get flat spots and damage to your wheels, if you need to flush and replace all the fluids in the truck, if you need to grease all the chains and the slides to prevent incidental corrosion while it’s stored. Consideration should also be given to the battery,” he said.
Plant & Equipment
The amber-coloured lights are also designed to resist interference from cockatoos.Image: Vailo
Forever amber
Wildlife friendly lighting makes debut
Australian lighting manufacturer Vailo has launched an amber variant of its flagship Zenith Gen-V stadium light, for use in areas with sensitive ecosystems.
Vailo engineering and production manager Phil McKenzie says the PC Amber variant will help to minimise the impact of LED lighting on wildlife behaviour and circadian rhythms. The lights will also meet the illumination needs of humans while, with a different light source at 1,000 watts, it will be less attractive to insects than lights with a blue-rich spectrum.
“PC Amber LEDs contribute to biodiversity conservation and sustainable ecosystem management in wildlife-sensitive areas by eliminating blue light while maintaining a broad spectrum of emitted light for effective outdoor area illumination for human use,” McKenzie said.
The luminaire retains other features of the Zenith Gen-V, including internally-wired components resistant to cockatoo interference, a tempered glass lens with UV protection and an IK09 impact rating, specialised optics, a lightweight design and a powder-coated finish.
VAILO CEO and Founder Aaron Hickmann said the company was excited to launch the new product, which he said had been developed for the Australian lifestyle.
“The Zenith Gen-V PC Amber is a high-performance floodlight suitable for sports fields, roads and tunnels, mining areas, airports and more. We look forward to seeing it installed across the country,” he said.
