Roads & Infrastructure February 2023

RETROFITTING THE FUTURE

Komatsu’s solution is bridging the gap between modern technology and older machinery, enhancing performance, safety and sustainability

ELECTRIC FEEL

JCB is servicing the growing demand for electric machinery right across the country

WHAT’S NEXT?

Industry leaders on the latest construction methods and products that are changing the industry

COVER STORY

16 Retrofitting the future

Komatsu’s PC138 excavators, ‘Retrofit Kit’, 3D Guidance and payload monitoring system, are giving operators access to a new era of machine technology.

ROADS REVIEW

20 This month, we asked industry decisionmakers, ‘What are some innovative construction products that are changing the industry?’

INNOVATION

21 Digital empowerment

How Asset Vision’s digital solutions are helping local councils streamline asset management and maintenance.

25 Building smarter, not harder Wirtgen Group is preparing for a busy 2023, with a range of new technology solutions.

28 A global expansion

Lintec & Linnhoff’s new facility in Malaysia is answering the call for a growing demand in asphalt mixing plants.

MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

34 Make the difference

Alberto Rosso of FAE explains what the company has to offer for the domestic infrastructure sector.

36 Powerful and balanced

Astec’s RX600ex cold planer has been chosen by Civil Independence Industries to perform profiling works in some of Australia’s harshest conditions.

39 Overcoming the big challenges

John Deere’s Derek Muller explains how the manufacturer is delivering more customer value with less environmental impact.

41 Electric future

CEA’s Greg Sealey talks to Roads & Infrastructure about the growing JCB Electric range.

SUSTAINABILITY

45 Going above and beyond

Puma Bitumen’s low temperature binders, are providing significant cost, emission and risk savings.

48 Up to the challenge

SAMI Bitumen Technologies’ SAMIfloat spray sealing solution has been put to the test. Roads & Infrastructure learns how the product performed and what’s to come.

EVENTS

50 A peek Inside Construction Expo  A sneak-peek into the inaugural Inside Construction Expo.

R&I SHOWCASE

52 What are you capable of?

Get prepared for the return of the Roads & Infrastructure Contractor Capability Showcase in 2023.

AFPA SECTION

54 AfPA and the RizeUp Foundation

RizeUp works to support families who are brave enough to leave the situation and start over in a safe environment.

55 Paving the way for industry

AfPA has developed an innovative industry skills card, to support career development and attract people to the industry.

NATIONAL PRECAST SECTION

56 National Precast member profile Roads & Infrastructure sits down with the National Commercial Manager of Dulux Acratex, Paul Augello.

57 New President and Board of Directors National Precast Concrete Association has a new Board of Directors, and Jeff Stratford has been elected President for 2022-24.

CONTRACTS & TENDERS

58 A summary of the contracts awarded for major infrastructure projects across Australia.

REGULARS

4 Editor’s note

6 News

14 People on the move

The interior of Lintec & Linnhoff’s new facility in Johor, Malaysia.

THE DAWN OF A NEW ERA

2023 IS SET TO BE AN exciting year for the roads and infrastructure sectors.

The industry’s efforts and persistence throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has been commendable, and the light is well and truly at the end of the tunnel. Federal and State government investment in infrastructure projects right across the country is ushering in a new era for the sector.

The Federal Government’s national rollout of its 10-year infrastructure investment pipeline will increase from $110 billion to over $120 billion, a new record.

And innovation is now much more than just a buzzword for the sector. Instead, the word now represents a committed investment into the future of construction machinery, services, maintenance and more for the industry.

The results of such investment are already making in-roads on a sector which generates $367.2 billion in revenue, producing around 9 per cent of the nation’s total GDP (Australian Industry and Skills Committee).

As we learn in the first edition of Roads & Infrastructure Magazine in 2023, some of the industry’s largest stakeholders are aiming to begin the year with a bang.

For the February edition’s cover story, we gain an insight into the latest technological offerings available on the market. Komatsu’s innovative RetroFit Kit can support the use of new technologies, such as 3D construction data and machine guidance, on older machinery. These Intelligent Machine Control elements have also proven to be an incredibly powerful tool when used in conjunction with the latest in construction machinery, such as Komatsu’s PC138US-11 and PC138USLC-11 excavators.

Lintec & Linnhoff continues to grow its presence globally, announcing the opening of a new production facility in Malaysia. The new production site will satisfy the growing demand on asphalt mixing plants and Eurotec concrete batching plants throughout Australasia, the Middle East and Africa. Roads & Infrastructure sits down with the company’s upper management to discover more about the facility and what the development means for Australia’s asphalt and concrete industries.

One of 2023’s most exciting opportunities will be the inaugural Inside Construction Expo 2023. Roads & Infrastructure is proud to be a major media partner of this brandnew event, which will display the very best that the construction sector has to offer, with an emphasis on major civil infrastructure projects such as the Metro Tunnel, East West Link, West Gate Tunnel and more. We speak to Show Director Lauren Winterbottom to learn more about the event.

We also hear from some of the industry’s top decision makers on the innovative construction products, which are changing the industry, in this month’s Roads Review column.

Happy reading!

Tom O’Keane Roads & Infrastructure Magazine

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CROSS RIVER RAIL’S PIMPAMA STATION A STEP CLOSER

A design and construction contract has been awarded to ADCO Constructions for works on the Pimpama Station, the first of three stations which will be delivered as part of the Cross River Rail project in Queensland.

The Pimpama Station will five accessible car parks, through-lifts on each platform,

a 40-bike lock-up enclosure and a pedestrian overpass.

Early works and site establishment on the station are already underway, including construction of the station access road, drainage works and connecting infrastructure. The new station is expected to make train travel easier for local residents, saving them

the need to go to Ormeau or Coomera to use the rail network.

ADCO is expected to start major works on the new station in early 2023.

Progress is also being made on the Merrimac and Hope Island stations, the other two stations which will be developed as part of the Cross River Rail.

MILLION BOOST TO TACKLE FLOOD-DAMAGED ROADS ACROSS NSW

$500

The New South Wales Government has committed an additional $500 million to help metropolitan and regional councils repair the state’s road network, following months of extreme weather events.

The new Regional and Local Roads Repair

support for councils to continue carrying out urgent repairs, including patching up potholes and rebuilding roads washed away by landslips.

The $500 million boost is on top of the $50 million already provided by the New South Wales Government to help regional councils

carry out emergency pothole repairs. The New South Wales Government is working closely with local councils to provide more funding for road repairs and new technology to fix potholes faster, including the use of a rapid sealing ‘cold mix’ product, and technology to identify and track potholes using specialised vehicles.

The new funding will be in addition to the New South Wales Government’s $1.5 billion commitment to maintaining state roads each year.

Additionally, the New South Wales Government has already redeployed 200 Transport for NSW crews to the state’s west to assist in the most damage-affected areas. Funding under the $500 million Regional and Local Roads Repair Program is available to Local Government areas in both Greater Sydney and Regional New South Wales. Repair work must be carried out by 31 December 2023.

Artist’s impression of the new Pimpama Station. Image courtesy of the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority.

NSW’s Regional and Local Roads Repair program will aim to provide more support for councils to carry out urgent road repairs.

CRAIGIEBURN ROAD UPGRADE RAMPS UP WITH MAJOR CONSTRUCTION PUSH

The Craigieburn Road Upgrade project in Melbourne’s north is in full swing, with several major road closures to help fast-track works over the school holiday period.

Throughout January and February, a major construction blitz will aim to complete nine months of work in seven weeks, with crews working around-the-clock.

The road to completion begins at the

eastern end of the project between Hanson Road and Hume Highway. From late February residents will enjoy upgraded intersections at Hume Highway and at Hardy Avenue/Walter Street, allowing for better and safer access to key locations such as the Craigieburn Train Station, Craigieburn Plaza and surrounding businesses, as well as improved access to the Hume Highway.

Much of the summer’s work will forge ahead around Craigieburn Plaza – which itself will remain accessible – with a 24/7 closure between the Hume Highway and Hanson Road intersections until Tuesday 28 February.

Adding more through and turning lanes at Hume Highway-Craigieburn Road will help clear congestion at the suburb’s busiest intersection, with approximately 50,000 motorists moving through this critical juncture every day.

Across the seven weeks of works, drivers will be able to access the Hume Highway by using local roads, as well as Grand Boulevard to the north and Somerton Road to the south.

With school holidays underway, crews will take advantage of reduced traffic volumes to upgrade the Bridgewater Road intersection.

The Hume Highway intersection is one of seven to be upgraded on Craigieburn Road between Mickleham Road and Hume Highway – with traffic lights to be added to Balyang Way, Dorchester Street and Cimberwood Drive.

The Craigieburn Road Upgrade is scheduled for completion by 2025.

PREFERRED OPTION PICKED FOR $500 MILLION NEW RICHMOND BRIDGE

Transport for NSW has identified the preferred route for the $500 million New Richmond Bridge and Traffic Improvements project, following feedback from the community. Jointly funded by the Federal and New South Wales governments on an 80:20 basis, the project will deliver a new bridge over the Hawkesbury River between Richmond and North Richmond, along with other traffic improvements.

The current bridge between Richmond and North Richmond carries an average of 31,000 vehicles per day. The new bridge is expected to double traffic capacity across the Hawkesbury River, reduce travel times and

cater for future growth in the region. The preferred option will have one-in-20year flood resilience and will be built next to the existing bridge.

This option was recommended as it reduces property acquisition, noise and visual impacts, and greatly improves flood resilience.

The preferred option is also expected to support business in the North Richmond town centre by maintaining passing trade.

It will have no direct impact on heritagelisted properties, and reduced impacts on

endangered ecological communities.

The option includes upgrades to traffic signals in North Richmond to improve longterm traffic flow, as well as a new signalised pedestrian crossing to improve connectivity across Bells Line or Road.

The project will upgrade four intersections, improve existing roads, construct a new road, as well as provide a dedicated active transport path between Richmond and North Richmond that will encourage bike use and exercise.

Artist’s impression of the upgraded Craigieburn Road-Hume Highway intersection. Image courtesy of Victoria’s Big Build.

The Federal and NSW governments have committed $500 million for traffic improvements including a new bridge over the Hawkesbury River. Image courtesty of Transport for NSW.

NEVER SETTLE NEVER STOP NEVER IDLE

It takes a different kind of brain behind the brawn. Fired up like a turbo diesel. Gears constantly churning. Hardwired beneath hard hats to solve problems, or avoid them altogether. With you and your crew at the helm, and Deere at your back. The workarounds, ideas and innovations that move earth, and your business, forward. Because that’s what it takes to win in the dirt. And that’s what it means to be Never Idle.

CONSTRUCTION ON $1 BILLION ROCKHAMPTON RING ROAD TO START IN 2023

The Federal and Queensland governments have reached an agreement to get the first phase of construction for the Rockhampton Ring Road underway this year.

The agreement enables a $280 million package of construction works to kick off in 2023, including upgrades to several connecting roads, including Boundary Road, McLaughlin Street, Monier Road Overpass, and the Rockhampton-Yeppoon Road intersection.

It will also provide a connection for the future project to West Rockhampton, which will include an upgrade to Lion Creek Bridge and connections to local roads.

The package of works represents the start of a new construction phase for the project, and follows several months of close

cooperation between the two governments to assess the best way to get the project moving.

The works form part of a large infrastructure pipeline in Central Queensland, which includes the $80 million Rockhampton

– Yeppoon Road upgrade, and the $19 million upgrade of Rockhampton – Emu Park Road, with construction on both projects to commence soon.

Construction on the Rockhampton Ring Road is expected to start in 2023.

VICTORIA PARK-CANNING LEVEL CROSSING REMOVAL ON TRACK, WA GOV CONFIRMS FUNDING

The first of 530 precast concrete L-beams for the METRONET Victoria Park-Canning Level Crossing Removal (VPCLXR) Project has been poured, marking a major milestone in preparations for the project.

The L-beams are one of several precast concrete components that will form part of the nearly four kilometres of overhead rail being delivered through the VPCLXR project.

Australian manufacturer Humes is manufacturing the beams, which will be cast, cleaned, and stored on site.

Each beam is made up of approximately eight truckloads of concrete and 13 tonnes of steel. The beams are 2.2 metres high, 30 metres long and weigh 130 tonnes.

The facility includes multiple workstations to allow for the various stages of beam construction to be carried out simultaneously, ensuring a fast production rate of around two beams per day.e.

The milestone comes as the Western Australian Government confirmed its

allocation of $87.5 million for the William Street level crossing removal and the Beckenham Station elevation, through the Mid-year Review.

The VPCLXR project is expected to significantly ease congestion along the Armadale Line, where some boom gates are down for several hours every day.

The new elevated rail line is also expected to generate new opportunities for development and public open space as land previously occupied by the rail line becomes available.

The VPCLXR project is being delivered by the Armadale Line Upgrade Alliance, which comprises Acciona, BMD, WSP, and Aecom.

Rockhampton Ring Road overview map. Image courtesy of the QLD Government.

The VPCLXR project is expected to ease congestion along the Armadale Line, where some boom gates are down for several hours every day. Image courtesy of the WA Government.

A second bridge over the Bohle River is now open to motorists, following the completion of the largest piece of infrastructure on the Townsville Ring Road (Stage Five) project in Queensland.

The Townsville Ring Road Stage Five project will deliver improved road safety, efficiency and travel time reliability for freight and passenger vehicles on the Bruce Highway in Townsville.

In addition to improving road safety and traffic efficiency, the project will improve local connectivity to important employment centres and essential services in Townsville, including Lavarack Barracks, James Cook University and Townsville University Hospital.

The 199.6 metre bridge over the Bohle River is the last of four bridges and overpasses. It consists of 96 piles (about 27 tonnes each) and 160 deck units (weighing a total 4752 tonnes). The new Bohle River Bridge is the largest structure built as part of the project.

A new, northbound, entry ramp is also open at Beck Drive, providing access

to the Ring Road for residents heading towards Hervey Range Road and north towards Ingham.

The $280 million Townsville Ring Road (Stage Five) is jointly funded by the

NEW MILESTONE FOR QLD’S $280 MILLION RING ROAD STAGE FIVE ALLIANCE AWARDED MULGOA ROAD UPGRADE

Australian ($224 million) and Queensland ($56 million) governments.

The project is expected to be completed approximately half-way through this year, weather permitting.

Transport for NSW has awarded the contract for a major upgrade of Mulgoa Road in Western Sydney.

An alliance comprising Seymour Whyte Constructions and Turnbull Engineering will deliver the upgrade of Mulgoa Road between Jeanette Street, Regentville and Blaikie Road, Jamistown.

The upgrade will aim to support the future economic growth of the region through an improved connection to the M4 Motorway and increased productivity.

The Mulgoa Road upgrade is jointly funded by the New South Wales and Federal governments and is part of a wider plan to improve connectivity across the Penrith area.

The project complements work the New South Wales Government has undertaken around the Jane Street intersection and the upgrades completed along The Northern Road.

The project will deliver improved road safety, efficiency and travel time reliability for freight and passenger vehicles on the Bruce Highway. Image courtesy of the QLD Government.

Design concept for the upgraded M4 Motorway and Mulgoa Road intersection. Image courtesy of Transport for NSW.

JCB BACKHOES

THE WORLD’S NUMBER ONE BACKHOE LOADER MANUFACTURER

INTRODUCING THE NEW STAGE V JCB SITEMASTER

• BEST IN CLASS ROAD SPEEDS

• LOW EMISSION HIGH POWERED STAGE V ECOMAX ENGINES

• IMPRESSIVE FUEL SAVINGS WITH AUTO ENGINE SHUT DOWN

• ERGONOMICALLY DESIGNED CONTROLS WITH EXCLUSIVE IN SEAT CONTROLS

• ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY 7” LCD TOUCH SCREEN

• EFFICIENT DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

• AUTOMATED FUNCTIONS WITH SELF LEVELLING STABILISERS

JCB’s iconic backhoe loader is as fresh and innovative today as when it was first conceived over 60 years ago. Since the invention of the backhoe by JCB in 1953 it has undergone continual innovations, pushing the boundaries and providing real solutions to meet customer needs.

A large part of JCB’s success is that we’ve listened to what our customers want, and we’re always striving to produce the most productive, reliable and efficient machines on the market. In tough market conditions, we take the time to understand what’s important to customers and how we can make a difference to your success through features that ensure versatility, offer positive residuals, fuel efficiency and low cost of ownership.

For more information on the range of JCB backhoe loaders please contact your local dealer www.jcbcea.com.au or call 1300 522 232.

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE HELPS YOU KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST MOVEMENTS ACROSS THE ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SECTORS.

BECA APPOINTS SHAUNPAUL POWER TO LEAD TRANSPORT NSW BUSINESS

Beca is delighted to appoint ShaunPaul Power to lead the 40-strong team of transport engineers and consultants in New South Wales, Australia. Power has been with Beca since May 2021 and has been leading the Transport Advisory and Data Analytics Team in Sydney. He started his career at Transport for London (TfL) where he was responsible for the design and implementation of developments to London’s urban traffic control system, including the provision of bus priority at traffic signals through Selective Vehicle Detection. Power has recently been selected for the 2023 Roads Australia Fellowship program, a prestigious development program for future industry leaders in Australia’s transport sector.

Image courtesy of Beca.

ROADS AUSTRALIA ELECTS NEW PRESIDENT

Aneetha de Silva has been elected as President of Roads Australia (RA) at the organisation’s annual general meeting in Sydney last November. De Silva becomes RA’s first woman President, and replaces Michael Bushby, who announced in September that he would not seek to extend his three-year tenure. De Silva is currently Managing Director – Government Australia and New Zealand at Aurecon, and has served as an RA Board Director for five years, including the past two years as Vice President. She has more than 25 years’ experience in both the government and private sectors in Australia, South Africa, and the Asia Pacific. RA has also elected its two Vice Presidents for 2023 – Scott Olsen, Chief Executive Officer of Fredon; and Silje Troseth, Vice President APAC & General Manager Australia, Q-Free ASA.

Image courtesy of Roads Australia.

BOARD CHANGES ANNOUNCED FOR THE QUEENSLAND BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION COMMISSION

Queensland’s construction industry watchdog, the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC), has made changes to its board following the completion of a governance review. In light of the recommendations made from the QBCC Governance Review, the QBCC board has been downsized from 10 to seven members, with former Deputy Chairperson Michelle James to lead to the board. James is a board member of Maurice Blackburn Lawyers and a director of Australian Lawyers Alliance and has held a number of respected committee positions within the legal community. The QBCC is Queensland’s building industry regulator, which aims to educate and support the industry through licensing, providing dispute resolution services, regulation, monitoring the financial wellbeing of the sector and more. James has been appointed the role of Chair, with John Anderson announced as the new Deputy Chair. Anderson is a tertiary qualified First Nations elder with extensive board and leadership experience. He is the Executive Director of Pi-CaTS Pty Ltd and board member of Health Consumers Queensland. The other five board members include Robyn Petrou, Christopher Edwards, Suzanne Baker, Colin Cassidy and Meg Frisby. The appointments for incoming board members will run from 1 December 2022 to 20 November 2025.

Image courtesy of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission.

WSP APPOINTS NEW CLIENT DIRECTOR FOR NSW & ACT

Jeremy Blackwell has been appointed by WSP as the Client Director for NSW & ACT. Blackwell re-joins WSP after holding key roles on the Paramatta Light Rail, the Transport Access Program (TAP3), Central Station upgrade, the award-winning NSW Bushfires Clean Up, and the More Trains More Services alliance. Blackwell said he believes in making communities more liveable by supporting innovative transport infrastructure. Blackwell commenced his role effective immediately on November 7, 2022.

Image courtesy of WSP.

(Left to right) Scott Olsen, Aneetha de Silva, and Silje Troseth.

SUE MCCARREY TO DEPART ONRSR

Sue McCarrey will depart her role as Chief and National Rail Safety Regulator for the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) at the end of the year. McCarrey joined the ONRSR in December 2014 and oversaw the full nationalisation of rail safety regulation in Australia. Under her tenure, ONRSR has also honed its risk-based model and developed a national work program driving consistent and effective regulation of Australia’s many and varied rail networks and operations. McCarrey also supervised the implementation of the world’s first heavy-haul, long distance autonomous rail operation in the Pilbara and the advent of driverless passenger trains in metropolitan Sydney. McCarrey was also integral in driving ongoing reform of the Rail Safety National Law. McCarrey formally finished with ONRSR on 30 December, at which point Chief Operating Officer, Peter Doggett took on the role of Acting Chief Executive and National Rail Safety Regulator while a national and international recruitment process is undertaken.

Image courtesy of ONRSR.

AUSTRALASIAN RAILWAY ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD APPOINTMENT

The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) has announced that KiwiRail Chief Executive Officer Peter Reidy will join the ARA Board later this month. Reidy was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of KiwiRail in July 2022, after previously having held the role from 2014-2018. He was previously the Chief Executive of Fletcher Construction from 2018-2022 and held a range of senior roles at Downer, including as Chief Operating Officer – Infrastructure Services from 2012-2014. The appointment is expected to support the ARA’s increased focus on rail freight. Reidy is also expected to bring significant industry experience and reinforce the ARA’s connection with its New Zealand members. Reidy joined the ARA Board as an Appointed Director on 29 November 2022.

Image courtesy of Rail Express.

Optimize Production & Profits With The Genius Asphalt Control Systems

Tired of inaccurate and slow weighing processes, limited production reports and not being able to maximize your plants efficiency with your current systems or technology?

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* Repeatable batch weigh accuracy

* Recipe based blend control

* Full product traceability

* 24/7 support & built-in diagnostics to minimize downtime

* Customised reporting

* Mobile and tablet interface

* Real time batch data via internet

* Standard PC hardware

* Modular hardware & software, allows for ease of future expansion

* Seamless interface to ERP or other software packages

“Gordyn & Palmer provided great service from end to end in our recent Maryborough upgrade; scoping, quote, installation, commissioning and post commissioning support. They were very professional with the operators extremely pleased with the upgrade and service. The new Genius system has better reporting capabilities and visibility of cost to assist with supporting and driving sustainability ambitions.”

Joel Cowen

Group Asphalt Industry Asset Manager

Colas Australia

Gordyn & Palmer

Internet: www.gordynpalmer.com.au

Komatsu has long taken pride in the technological developments of its machines and smart construction offerings.

Komatsu’s roots are embedded in Japan, where more than 100 years ago Founder Meitaro Takeuchi moulded the company in his vision, to contribute and enhance his community’s quality of life.

As Scott Berry, Komatsu National Business Manager – Construction tells Roads & Infrastructure, Takeuchi’s commitment to empowering future generations now translates to Komatsu’s adherence to delivering reliable and “cutting-edge” machinery.

“One of the biggest selling points for our machines is our brand. With

THE FUTURE RETROFITTING

KOMATSU’S PC138 RANGE OF EXCAVATORS, SUPPORTED BY THE COMPANY’S ‘RETROFIT KIT’ –

A 3D GUIDANCE AND PAYLOAD MONITORING SYSTEM – ARE GIVING OPERATORS ACCESS TO A NEW ERA OF MACHINE TECHNOLOGY.

our brand we aim to provide the best support, while offering a premium product backed by Japanese quality,” Berry says.

“We offer everything that we believe the customer needs.”

Berry’s enthusiasm for the Komatsu brand has been accentuated by the company’s on-going development in innovative machinery technology.

From Intelligent Machine Control (iMC) to a suite of ‘Smart Construction’ products, Komatsu is constantly upgrading and updating ICT (Information Communication Technology) features, aimed at maximising the productivity and safety of construction machinery. Developed in-house, these technologies

are designed to work across a variety of machinery classes.

Now Komatsu’s 3D Machine Guidance and Payload system is opening doors for operators to equip their machinery, such as the PC138US-11 and PC138USLC-11 excavators, with the latest technology offerings.

AN INTEGRATED PACKAGE

With more than 45 models, Komatsu Australia’s excavators have been developed to suit the needs of operators ranging from the ‘weekend warrior’, to major infrastructure project developers.

One of the key features of Komatsu’s PC138US-11 and PC138USLC-11 models is ability to handle a range of operations.

Komatsu’s PC138 excavator in action.

“The PC138US-11 and PC138USLC-11 excavators are some of the best-selling construction excavators in our range because they’re a real utility machine,” Berry says. “And we find that a lot of Australian operators are wanting a machine that can pretty much do everything.

“One of the biggest benefits is the urban swing on both machines, which is what the US stands for. Operators can move the machines closer to walls and get into tight spaces. The shorter undercarriage of the PC138US-11 also boosts the agility and mobility of the machine.”

Both the PC138US-11 and PC138USLC-11 have an identical tail swing radius of 1480 millimetres, allowing the excavators to work in tighter spaces when compared to conventional machinery.

Both machines are powered by Komatsu’s low-emission, Tier 4 Compliant engine, providing 97 horsepower.

Berry says the engine provides sustainability benefits when compared to conventional engine designs.

“I’m certainly a believer in doing everything that we can to minimise emissions and make the world cleaner and greener. Whether or not our engines are ‘changing the world’, we believe this is the way of the future,” Berry says.

And while the excavators share similar features and capabilities, the biggest difference between the two models lies in the undercarriage design.

Berry says the larger undercarriage on the PC138USLC-11 provides slightly better stability, especially when using larger attachments and implements. Therefore, increasing the safety of operation, especially when incorporating hazards such as uneven terrain or heavy loads.

He adds that the decision between having a PC138US-11 or PC138USLC-11 comes down to operator preference.

PLAYING IT SMART

As with many of Komatsu’s construction machinery models, these dash 11 excavators are compatible with the Smart Construction Retrofit Kit.

The Retrofit Kit (RFK) allows existing machinery to use ICT features such as 3D machine guidance, payload management and 3D construction data collection.

Marc Brook, Technology Consultant at Komatsu, says the RFK can allow

conventional machinery to perform digital construction.

“Time is money, and the more time that the excavator can spend performing productive tasks, the better,” Brook says.

He says the 3D machine guidance feature allows operators to dig to 3D design plans accurately and efficiently, by notifying them in the cab of their bucket’s current position, against the engineered design drawings.

“The RFK system uses high-performance sensors and antennas to display the position of the bucket accurately and reliably against the design information. The operator can easily change surface offsets, extend the grade of a design surface, record points, create simple

designs, easily change between designs and attachments and much more,” Brook says.

“It also provides an option to feed as-constructed data directly from the machine into our Smart Construction dashboard for daily volume and progress reporting.”

Operators can also create simple flat and sloping designs themselves on the in-cab display, which can show several ‘views’ and be customised based on the operator’s preference. This is displayed through the tablet pilot app, which presents this data in an accessible manner for operators.

“The user interface is easy to use. The technology is designed to be user

“THE USER INTERFACE IS EASY TO USE. THE TECHNOLOGY IS DESIGNED TO BE USER FRIENDLY, AND OPERATORS CAN BECOME COMFORTABLE AND PRODUCTIVE WITH IT VERY QUICKLY.”

Both the PC138US-11 and PC138USLC-11 excavators can be fitted out with the latest in Komatsu’s technological offerings.

friendly, and operators can become comfortable and productive with it very quickly,” Brook says.

And if operators are ever unsure about the operation of the RFK, the Komatsu team is there to help along the way.

“In the case of technical support or additional training being required, our dedicated support team can access the system remotely to ensure it’s always being utilised effectively,” Brook says.

One of the RFK’s other marquee features – the payload management system – focuses on the measurable weight of the soil loaded in

the bucket of excavator models. While this sounds like a straightforward tool, the payload management system provides benefits, especially when it comes to efficiency and safety..

“It increases general safety by ensuring that trucks are not overloaded with material first and foremost,” Brook says. “It also ensures that the target load capacities are being met, increasing material haulage productivity by reducing fuel costs and emissions output to achieve the maximum efficiency out of each truck cycle.”

This payload information can then be reported to a cloud-based server.

FITTING AND FINISHING

Brook says the potential for the RFK to open new doors for operators is “extremely exciting”, adding that the versatility of the system is one of its strong points.

“The RFK can be fitted to a variety of machine sizes, makes and models, including older machines, for 3D machine guidance. The payload system is machine specific, and we are constantly looking to add more machines to our payload management supported list,” Brook says.

“The RFK can be fitted at our factory prior to the handover of the machine, or alternatively it can be installed on site.”

Brook says Komatsu is eager and embracing the future, with plans already in place to further develop the technological capabilities of the

RFK system, along with machinery such as the PC138US-11 and PC138USLC-11 excavators.

“We are constantly working to develop the RFK product based on our customers’ needs.

“From a hardware perspective we will be looking to support more makes and models of machines in the future.

“From a software perspective, we are constantly engaging with our customers on features to improve their workflows, and our customers will continue to receive these feature updates as they become available,” Brook says.

“THE RETROFIT KIT CAN BE FITTED AT OUR FACTORY PRIOR TO THE HANDOVER OF THE MACHINE, OR ALTERNATIVELY IT CAN BE INSTALLED ON SITE IN THE CASE OF EXISTING OPERATIONAL EQUIPMENT.”

Komatsu’s Retrofit Kit can enable machines such as the PC138US-11 and PC138USLC-11 excavators to utilise 3D machine guidance, as well as 3D construction data collection.

Komatsu’s Intelligent Machine Control allows excavators in Komatsu’s PC138 range to receive and relay information in real-time.

Puma Low Temperature (LT) Binders going further for more sustainable roads

Puma binders with Cargill Anova™ Warm Mix Additive allows production of asphalt at temperatures up to 50 degree celcius lower than conventional hot mixed asphalt. It also minimises fume and odour emissions and improves working conditions for asphalt crews.

Mixing asphalt at a lower temperature results in the following approximated savings in cost and CO2 emissions per tonne of asphalt.

Assumptions: Diesel price $1.5 per litre / Natural gas price $20 per GJ / Diesel emission factor 70 kg CO2-eq/GJ

(Australian National Greenhouse Accounts Factors) / Natural gas emission factor 52 kg CO2-eq/GJ

(Australian National Greenhouse Accounts Factors)

Puma Bitumen is proudly going cooler with AnovaTM

ROADS REVIEW

THIS MONTH, WE ASKED THE INDUSTRY DECISION-MAKERS, ‘WHAT ARE SOME INNOVATIVE CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS THAT ARE CHANGING THE INDUSTRY?’

SARAH BACHMANN – CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICE, NATIONAL PRECAST CONCRETE ASSOCIATION AUSTRALIA

When an industry embraces innovation from every angle, the opportunities for productivity improvement in the delivery of sustainable outcomes are endless. As an industry that is brimming with talented professionals, the precast industry is poised to innovate from design right through to handover. Smarter and new ways to connect and lift elements, digitised quality assurance for all-round transparency and improved quality, the evolution of precast manufacturers with origins in flat, grey wall panels to embark on architectural wonders, self-cleaning and environmental coatings, coatings to improve precast durability, etched images on precast surfaces… everywhere you turn, the precast industry is demonstrating outstanding innovation.

ANNA D’ANGELO – EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TECHNOLOGY & LEADERSHIP, AUSTRALIAN FLEXIBLE PAVEMENT ASSOCIATION

The drive to reduce the carbon footprint of construction activities is leading industry to adopt some known technologies and products which had not fully implemented in Australia. The reuse of RAP (Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement) in new asphalt mixes, the introduction of warm mix additive (WMA) to lower the asphalt manufacturing temperatures are just some examples. It is also worth mentioning the adoption of EME2 introduced in Australia in 2014, which is now becoming common in some Australian states for its proven benefits, such as reduced asphalt thicknesses for heavy duty pavements. Additionally, the development and increased use of high binder content emulsions will contribute to reduce the GHG emissions during sprayed sealing operations.

MATT

GENEVER – INTERIM CEO, SUSTAINABILITY VICTORIA

Sustainability Victoria’s Buy Recycled Directory lists over 350 innovative products containing recycled content which is strengthening and growing a circular construction industry. One such supplier, PorousLane, is using waste tyres diverted from landfill to create permeable surfaces including pedestrian walkways, tree protection zones and carparks. A permeable surface allows water to pass through, reducing stormwater runoff and pollution in waterways. The product has been developed with the University of Melbourne and undergone extensive laboratory and infield testing. Sustainability Victoria recently funded the upgrade of carparking spaces in the City of Yarra with 70 square metres of PorousLane trafficable product.

TONY ALOISIO

– DIRECTOR, ECOLOGIQ

Recycled construction materials are transforming Australia’s transport infrastructure industry. Beyond accelerating our shift to a circular economy and their environmental benefits, waste resources can perform as well as traditional materials, are often easier to install and costcompetitive. Recycled plastic innovations are a standout example and can be incorporated in applications such as drainage pipes, railway sleepers, traffic bollards and as reinforcement in concrete. Crumb rubber is also emerging as a game-changer and can be used as a binder in asphalt and in concrete paths. The Victorian Government’s ecologiQ program is on a mission to make these materials the new normal.

If you or someone at your organisation is an industry leader and would like to be a part of this monthly column in 2023, please get in touch with Editor, Tom O’Keane: tom.okeane@primecreative.com.au

DIGITAL EMPOWERMENT

HOW ASSET VISION’S DIGITAL SOLUTIONS ARE HELPING LOCAL COUNCILS STREAMLINE ASSET MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE.

Since its launch in 2010, Australianowned technology company Asset Vision has offered smart, streamlined solutions for asset management for local governments, road owners, and civil construction companies.

Co-Founder and CEO Damian Smith first developed the platform with a focus on road networks, which led to early contracts for the Victorian Department of Transport (DoT), and Transport for NSW (TfNSW).

These contracts introduced the platform to a wide range of local councils, including: Moyne Shire Council, Horsham Rural City Council, Mildura City Council, Goulburn Mulwaree Council, West Wimmera Council Hindmarsh Shire Council and City of Newcastle. Many of these councils in turn began to see the value of the platform for managing related assets such as bridges, tunnels, drainage systems, open space infrastructure and facilities.

In early 2022, Shire of East Pilbara in Western Australia – Australia’s largest local government area – chose Asset Vision for an integrated asset management solution after a competitive tender process.

Asset Vision’s Phil Elms, Client Delivery Manager for the project, says the council was seeking a centralised, adaptable solution to manage the financial planning and maintenance of its vast network of assets across the region’s 372,571 square kilometres.

“They were looking for a system to take them into the future,” Elms says. “One with the flexibility to support new capabilities as they migrate their people and processes into it.”

Elms says East Pilbara’s Asset Vision system currently monitors about 44 different asset types – a number he expects will grow as more data is captured.

“It’s used for everything from an airport, through to water treatment plants, buildings, rentals, as well as roads and open space

infrastructure,” he says. “It’s one of the biggest cross-sections of asset types that we’ve seen a client use Asset Vision for.”

MORE DATA, LESS HASSLE

Asset Vision’s mission is to offer a centralised asset management platform with a focus on flexibility and ease of use.

Once populated with data, the system is accessible on smart devices through the dedicated Asset Vision app, through which assets can be monitored, photos uploaded, jobs tracked, and maintenance scheduled.

Smith says the key is bringing asset owners and service providers onto the same platform.

“From the very beginning, we set out to build a modern and centralised asset and maintenance management platform that could be easily used by both asset owners and their contractors,” he says.

“It had never been done before. These organisations work together on a daily

Asset Vision providess easy, remote access to asset network data from smart devices.

basis in the real world, so it made perfect sense to connect them to each other in the digital world.

“With all parties connected to the same system, Asset Vision provides a frictionless environment for everyone to work together efficiently and transparently.”

EVOLVING PARTNERSHIPS

Moyne Shire in southwestern regional Victoria has used Asset Vision in some form since 2013.

Unlike the recent all-at-once implementation for East Pilbara, Moyne Shire’s integration of Asset Vision has evolved gradually over several years.

Marius Dragan, Asset Vision’s Client Manager for the Moyne Shire project, says the council initially came on board as part of Asset Vision’s contract with the DoT, which required the shire team to use the system for contract maintenance work on DoTowned road assets that ran through the area.

“I think they were impressed with the functionality that Asset Vision provided,” Dragan says. “After a few years, when it came time to modernise their own system for council-owned road assets, they decided Asset Vision was the right tool for them.”

According to Moyne Shire’s Leah Johnston, Manager Works and Engineering, the council had been seeking a digital solution to replace an ageing paper-based system.

“We’d researched a range of systems, but we had staff who were familiar with Asset Vision from our contract with the DoT,” Johnston says. “There was some

synergy there that just made sense for us to implement it for our own road inspections and management.”

Stephen Arundell, Moyne Shire Infrastructure Surveillance Officer, says the system has predominantly been used for roads and footpaths, but that looks set to change.

“Through using it for roads, we’ve seen the potential for how else Asset Vision can

has seen major quality-of-life improvements implemented since he started using it.

“I might have a route of 50 roads that I need to inspect in a day, and they used to just pop up in a list,” Arundell says. “I’d have to get a physical map out, and manually plan the most efficient route.

“Now, Asset Vision can display those jobs highlighted on a map. I can see on my phone exactly which sections of which

Moyne Shire has used the Asset Vision platform since 2013.

Asset Vision is constantly evolving to improve safety and ease of use.

to a client’s needs from the very beginning.

“We have a number of sessions with the client to understand their exact requirements, and the processes they typically follow in the delivery of their work,” he says. “We then go through a significant data analysis and design phase to understand the specific outcomes they want to achieve.

“They might not know exactly how the system would best address those outcomes, but they can say ‘this is what we want it to do’. We’ll take that on board and recommend the best system setup for them.”

This will sometimes require the Asset Vision team to build additional functionality into the tool to help a client achieve a particular outcome in a specific way.

“Sometimes we’ll adapt to suit them, or they’ll adapt to a process that we recommend. That level of flexibility is quite important,” Dragan says.

LOCAL VALUES

One point of pride for the Asset Vision team is the company’s local roots. Collectively, the team brings together decades of experience from local government, and the roads and infrastructure sectors.

“We’re Australian grown and Australian owned,” Smith says. “We’ve had a lot of exposure to how local businesses are run, and what’s required from both local service providers and asset owners.

“We have our own ideas and product roadmap, but we are ultimately guided by our clients’ needs and wants. The breadth of functionality available in Asset Vision today is a result of more than a decade of listening and adapting and overcoming challenges that are thrown our way.”

Smith says the Asset Vision team understands the range of challenges specific to Australia – from its sheer size to major weather events.

Last year Moyne Shire, like so many regions across Australia, had to deal with unprecedented flooding that put stress on roads, the council, and the community.

Arundell says using Asset Vision has enabled his team to respond more quickly and efficiently to such situations, and to be more prepared in the future.

“I’ve created specifications within the system to help us deal with flood events,” he says.

“We can capture photos, along with dates and timestamps of specific issues – even if it’s just water over the road – then we’ve got that information on record which we can later use to address the problem.”

STREAMLINING COMMUNICATION

“One of the biggest benefits of Asset Vision is bringing everyone onto one platform,” Elms says. “You’re not trying to use different tools and emails to exchange information,

where someone could forget to update data in one of the systems.

“You just get a single, uninterrupted view of everything in one location. And that means you can focus on the outcome, rather than all the administrative boxes you need to tick along the way.”

Elms says this also requires an end-user experience that’s as intuitive as possible, and as accessible as possible for the least ‘techsavvy’ member of the team.

Moyne Shire’s Stephen Arundell can attest to this.

“We have one guy on the team who didn’t have a mobile phone – never even used one,” Arundell says. “Now, he’s got a smartphone, he does all his pre-start inspections on there, and it hasn’t been an issue for him.”

ALWAYS BUILDING

For Co-Founder and CEO Damian Smith, the continued growth and evolution of the Asset Vision platform will remain a key focus for the company.

“Fundamentally, the day-to-day role of a road or asset inspector hasn’t changed much since Asset Vision began its journey – there’s just a lot more technology available that we can use to make their job safer and more efficient,” he says.

“The challenge is applying the technology in the right way, and our long-standing team plays a critical role in pushing these boundaries. Innovation and thinking outside the box is where Asset Vision started, and we’re not slowing down now.”

Moyne Shire plans to expand its use of Asset Vision to manage assets beyond just the road network.

“INNOVATION AND THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX IS WHERE ASSET VISION STARTED, AND WE’RE NOT SLOWING DOWN NOW.”

BUILDING INFRASTRUCTURE

SMARTER, NOT HARDER

WIRTGEN GROUP IS PREPARING FOR A BUSY 2023, WITH A RANGE OF NEW TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS SET TO STREAMLINE HOW ITS AUSTRALIAN CUSTOMERS GET THEIR WORK DONE.

At Bauma in Munich last October, Wirtgen Group – just a few hours from its headquarters in Windhagen, Germany – showcased a business united in its commitment to efficiency and innovation.

The large ‘Technology Zone’ at the centre of a sprawling range of exhibits at the event demonstrated a major point of focus for Wirtgen Group and its brands for 2023 and beyond.

Wirtgen Australia Managing Director Stuart Torpy says the company’s global objective is to help customers boost efficiency and sustainability through smarter use of their equipment.

“This is a big focus for Wirtgen Group going forward,” he says. “We continue to make things quieter and more fuel efficient, but it’s also about how the gear is used.

“Machinery in some model classes will sometimes idle for 60 per cent of the day. If you want to know how your business can reduce emissions and save money – that’s a good place to start.”

Torpy says newer smart machinery can often intuitively manage such processes –for example, the spinning drum of a milling machine coming to a stop after it detects inactivity for a specified period.

He says the more processes that can be automated, the greater the opportunity

for emissions and wear reduction, and cost savings.

“Skilled operators are getting harder and harder to find,” Torpy adds. “We’re trying to automate things in a way that takes the pressure off operators, or allows them to concentrate on fewer tasks.”

Torpy highlights five new products that exemplify how Australian road constructors can harness the power of Wirtgen Group technology to boost efficiency across their businesses.

“Each one is designed to provide incremental improvements to efficiency,” he says. “But when you add that up over a year, it can have a significant impact on

AutoTrac is designed to minimise unnecessary overlaps between mixing passes.

our customers’ businesses. The speed of your jobs, the fuel you use, and the carbon you emit.

“Every one of our brands is using technology to pull all that together.”

Torpy also stresses that many of Wirtgen Group’s new smart solutions will offer tangible benefits to owners of single machines, not just large fleets.

“It’s not all about the big guys,” he says. “Depending on where you work, there’s about 250 working days in a year, and if one of these products helps you run one piece of gear just 10 per cent more efficiently every day, you’ve just gained a month.”

PRECISION RECYCLING

AutoTrac for the WR series of cold recyclers and soil stabilisers is an automated, satellite-navigation-assisted steering system designed to optimise the efficiency of each mixing pass.

Brett Ferris, Wirtgen Product Support Manager, says the centimetre-precision offered by AutoTrac will minimise unnecessary overlaps or gaps between runs.

“AutoTrac places a marker at each end of the first cut, and places a grid over the whole job,” he says. “The machine can then align to this grid and guide itself accordingly over the whole width of the job, leaving an optimal amount of overlap.”

Ferris says this boost to efficiency and quality is even more valuable when contractors are relying on less experienced operators.

“Once an operator learns the AutoTrac system, the time it takes to build confidence in accurate mixing will be significantly reduced,” he says.

“We’re seeing a big push for the economy of machines, both for the sake of carbon

output, but also given the price of fuel. If we can complete a job in fewer, more effective runs, that means less running time for the machine, lower operating costs, and more money in the pocket for machine owners.”

REMOTE CONTROL

Kleemann, Wirtgen Group’s crushing and screening plant brand, is introducing Spective Connect, an interactive interface to provide remote machine control, visibility, and performance data.

Ben Lefroy, Kleemann National Sales Manager AU/NZ, says Spective Connect builds on the existing Spective control panel by combining that same functionality with the flexibility of a smartphone app.

“This allows for a more streamlined operation by providing full control of the crushing circuit from the cab of the feed machine,” he says.

Though a simple addition to Kleemann’s Spective operating concept, Lefroy says Spective Connect could allow contractors to reduce the manpower necessary on

the ground for plant operation, while streamlining the process of sharing production data.

“Given the challenges we are facing across all industries in Australia with finding skilled workers, the addition of Spective Connect could be hugely beneficial,” he says.

REFINED OPERATION

On the machinery side of Wirtgen Group’s latest technology, Vögele is introducing a new line of pavers: the ‘Dash 5’ range.

Initially comprising the SUPER 1900-5 and SUPER 2100-5 models, the Dash 5 pavers promise a range of operational, automation, efficiency, and sustainability upgrades that will set contractors up for the current and future needs of the road construction industry.

Paul Ridgeway, Wirtgen Applications Support Manager, Road Technologies, says the new pavers are a leap forward in both efficiency and ergonomic design.

“Time is money, and shorter setup times can save hundreds of hours per year,” he says.

“Adjusting the stroke of tampers previously required the use of tools to adjust two points on every screed section – that’s eight points on a basic extendable screed. Now with the Dual Power Shift Tamper option, tamper stroke can be altered across the whole screed at the touch of a button.”

Ridgeway says the new Paver Access Control (PAC) function allows operators to raise and lower the screed and canopy from ground level, as well as switching on work lights and starting the engine.

“New screed display units eliminate cables and allow quick connection and disconnection – even when the engine is

Spective Connect allows operators to access the functionality of the Spective control panel remotely.

Smart Doc lowers the barrier to entry for intelligent compaction monitoring.

running,” he says.

The latest ErgoPlus 5 operating system builds on the same structure, but refines control function layout and display clarity.

“We think operators will appreciate these refinements, and adapt to them quickly,” Ridgeway says.

STREAMLINING COMPACTION

Wirtgen Group’s soil compactor manufacturer HAMM is introducing Smart Doc, a smartphone app to help easily document and share compaction data.

Craig Yeats, HAMM Product Support Manager, calls it “a fresh look” at entry-level Intelligent Compaction monitoring – one that he expects will lower the barrier to entry for the technology.

“Ease of use is the key feature of Smart Doc,” Yeats says. “The free downloadable app replaces most of the hardware required for the HCQ (HAMM Compaction Quality) IC system, while still using the same sensors and machine data – instead connecting via a Bluetooth module.

“The operator can track their passes,

compaction, and asphalt temperature to ensure they are giving the compacted material the best chance of meeting specification.”

Yeats says the early feedback from Bauma attendees was positive, and interest has been building in Australia for retrofit options.

“It’s all about improving compaction practices and getting the most efficiency out of the rollers,” he says.

“Any engineer will tell you the first thing to get right is compaction. Regardless of what goes on top – asphalt, concrete, a house or a skyscraper – if the base isn’t right, everything on top is at risk.

“If we can get the compaction process right, our roads will last longer and require less maintenance, which saves everyone money.”

THE BIG PICTURE

Tying everything together, Operations Center is a centralised platform for all digital solutions offered by Wirtgen Group. It is designed to provide a high-level solution to manage the range of data accessible through

this suite of technology, and help put that data to practical use.

Torpy says Wirtgen Group’s new technology will benefit businesses of any size, but Operations Center makes the technology outputs and data easily accessible on both a machine and jobsite level.

“Operations Center is really built to bring machine, fleet and job information to your fingertips,” he says. “It can help you monitor progress, analyse data across your fleet – whether that be one unit or many – and produce customer reports and quality records. There’s a lot that you can generate from the platform based on how you operate and manage your machine or machines.”

Torpy says once launched, Operations Centre will continue to grow as new technology solutions are developed and implemented to help Wirtgen Group customers get the most out of their machines.

“The machines themselves can only be so efficient,” Torpy says. “But if you’re not aiming in the right direction, you’re never going to hit the targets.

“You’ve really got to be able to use the tools well. And that’s what Wirtgen Group’s technology is aiming to enable.”

“THE SPEED OF YOUR JOBS, THE FUEL YOU USE, AND THE CARBON YOU EMIT. EVERY ONE OF OUR BRANDS IS USING TECHNOLOGY TO PULL ALL THAT TOGETHER.”

The Dash 5 range offers a variety of efficiency and operational upgrades.

A GLOBAL EXPANSION

LINTEC

For more than a century, Lintec & Linnhoff has cemented its place as a global leader in asphalt and concrete batch plant manufacturing.

Backed by this global expertise, as well as decades of German quality and development, the company has serviced the needs of thousands of infrastructure projects across the asphalt and concrete industries.

The company’s newest manufacturing factory in Johor, Malaysia, is set to further expand its capabilities, by providing a base for Linnhoff and Eurotec plants to be distributed world-wide. Design and development of the Johor facility began in 2019, with final works completed in 2021.

Daniel Chan, Chairman at Lintec & Linnhoff Holdings, says that despite on-going

manufacturer demonstrated its resilience to fulfil its promise of delivering an innovative facility in good time.

“Over the past two years, the whole world faced the challenge of COVID and many projects were put on hold. We faced our own roadblocks, but we were determined to bring our vision to life for this new Malaysian factory,” Chan says.

Covering 88,888 square feet, the latest addition to Lintec & Linnhoff’s global manufacturing portfolio will be responsible for the development of Linnhoff asphalt mixing plants and Eurotec concrete

customers in South-East Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

The Johor site was selected strategically, to allow Lintec & Linnhoff to ship plants to all three regions. The facility is also 36 kilometres away from the company’s global headquarters in Singapore.

Select plants will be transported by land to Singapore before shipping via Jurong Port, while others will go via two local Malaysian ports in Johor.

OFF THE PRODUCTION LINE

Lintec & Linnhoff has already hit the ground running, with the first plant off the production line, a Eurotec ECO60 concrete plant, already in the hands of a customer in Madagascar.

A second order has also been fulfilled for a Eurotec Ecotec ECT60 concrete plant and a Linnhoff TSD1500 MobileMix asphalt plant for a customer in Papua New Guinea.

Chan says these plants signify the beginning of a new era for Lintec & Linnhoff.

“Our investment and hard work have now paid off and we can’t wait to welcome customers to see the new facility. Our first plants have already been delivered and the future is very bright,” he says.

The Johor facility replaces the company’s previous location in the north-eastern

& LINNHOFF’S NEW FACILITY IN MALAYSIA IS ANSWERING THE CALL FOR A GROWING DEMAND IN ASPHALT MIXING PLANTS AND EUROTEC CONCRETE BATCHING PLANTS THROUGHOUT AUSTRALASIA, THE MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA.

Development on the new facility began back in 2019.

Daniel Chan, Chairman of Lintec & Linnhoff Holdings, with Executive Director Tan Suan Yap at the opening ceremony of the new facility.

region of the city, allowing the company to deliver plants much faster for customers.

As part of this strategy, Lintec & Linnhoff is utilising this site to support growth in key markets in various regions.

FURTHER EXPANSION

While phase one covers 88,888 square feet, Lintec & Linnhoff has already planned two further expansions to the facility.

Phase two will add an extra 76,850 square feet. This expansion will enable the company to develop and manufacture Lintec containerised asphalt and concrete plants in the facility.

The final phase of works will increase the size of the open-yard area for storage of stock plants and components, and create more space to conduct rigorous testing and erection of multiple plants before they’re delivered.

Additional investment will also be made for new equipment for the factory to support its production capacity and efficiency. The planned development of the Johor facility will cover a total of 282,000 square feet.

FOR THE DOMESTIC MARKET

But what do these investments mean for Australia’s asphalt and concrete industries?

Chan says the aforementioned phase two expansion, including the development of Lintec containerised asphalt and concrete plants, will cater for expected demand across Australia.

Built in 100 per cent ISO-certified sea containers, these ‘CSD’ plants are the first of their kind in the industry.

Aside from economical shipping, the CSD containerised asphalt plant boasts a modular construction that allows for

easy transportation and fast installation and dismantling.

The plant components are also built within the container, meaning mechanisms are weatherproofed and secure, reducing the need for maintenance, as well as providing the customer with increased security with only one lockable door.

Chan says that Lintec & Linnhoff is currently looking at new opportunities to expand the company’s product range, as well as new collaborations and ventures that are relevant for Australia’s domestic market.

The interior of Lintec & Linnhoff’s new facility in Johor, Malaysia.

The new facility in Johor is just 36 kilometres from Lintec & Linnhoff’s global headquarters in Singapore.

FLEXIBLE INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR MOBILE PLANT

AND EQUIPMENT

ZURICH INSURANCE’S MOBILE PLANT AND EQUIPMENT INSURANCE POLICIES ARE DESIGNED TO CATER FOR A VARIETY OF BUSINESS NEEDS, ACCORDING TO NATIONAL UNDERWRITING MANAGER FOR MOTOR ENERGY AND FLEET, GAVIN HART.

2022 was a year of celebration for Zurich Insurance.

The company commemorated its 150-year anniversary globally as a multiline insurer in more than 210 countries and territories.

Closer to home, Zurich Insurance remains committed to the Australian general insurance market. Since 1921, Zurich Insurance has grown across Australia and New Zealand, now employing more than 1600 people across both nations.

Distributing policies through brokers, Zurich delivers insurance solutions for small business, motor, marine, property, liability, workers compensation and other commercial lines of business.

As Gavin Hart, National Underwriting Manager for Motor Energy and Fleet

explains, Zurich Insurance has also developed a flexible Mobile Plant and Equipment package for the construction, roadworks and equipment hire industries.

“Zurich’s motor fleet policy wording is fit for purpose in the MP&E (Mobile Plant and Equipment) space,” says Hart. “Our policy can be specifically tailored to the customer’s needs in terms of structure and coverage, with the ability to choose from a range of additional benefits. Zurich also offers bespoke risk engineering services on request and a dedicated MP&E technical claims team.”

THE DIFFERENCE

Zurich’s MP&E insurance includes coverage for both heavy and light vehicles under one fleet policy. This means the customer can

Zurich Insurance’s Mobile Plant and Equipment policies are backed by the company’s global expertise.

Gavin Hart, National Underwriting Manager for Motor Energy and Fleet.

have peace of mind that additional vehicles or plant equipment, owned or hired, will be covered under the policy.

Clients can also make their own decision on the repairer in the case of a claim.

Hart says Zurich Insurance’s team can accurately determine risk by having a deep understanding of the insurance landscape, as well as hazards associated with the aforementioned industries.

“Our experienced team of risk engineers have deep industry knowledge to help address the risks and exposures for our customers, from not only a MP&E perspective but also additional areas of risk such as weather event exposure, workers compensation, public liability, contract works and cyber insurance,” he says.

Zurich Insurance can also maximise its international experience to deliver solutions for Australian mobile plant and equipment owners.

“We can provide our brokers direct access to the expertise of our network of 800 risk engineers based in 40 countries, who operate worldwide to conduct some 60,000 risk assessments annually,” Hart says.

“The current risk landscape is changing and evolving faster than ever before. In order to help mitigate your current and future

risks, we can provide you with the tools and insights you need to help tackle whatever the future may hold.”

A TAILORED SOLUTION

Zurich’s Mobile Plant and Equipment policy can also be adapted to satisfy the unique needs of each customer. By assessing factors such as risk profile, types of equipment and the industry in which the business operates, Zurich Insurance tailor the policy for customers.

“We can offer various premium/excess options, increased policy limits and an extensive suite of additional covers such as downtime, hire charges, increased cost of working, dry hire, and automatic cover for hired in vehicles/MP&E,” Hart says.

“Zurich’s wealth of experience not only allows us to offer a quality policy, but it also allows us to continuously improve, refine and enhance cover offered to our customers.”

This also extends to fleet managers. By providing a simplified solution, fleet managers can have their vehicles and mobile plant and equipment combined into a policy. This removes the need to apply a different policy to individual machinery.

“By comprehensively covering all vehicle types and plant under a single policy, customers can benefit by having competitive premiums and consistency in cover,” Hart says.

“Fleet managers have peace of mind knowing that any additional vehicles and MP&E, either owned or hired, are automatically covered under our policy. We understand the importance to a business that their equipment keeps on working. If there is an item of equipment that requires timely repairs, we strive to immediately hire a replacement item to continue the work.”

FLATTERING FEEDBACK

Hart says that Zurich Insurance regularly receives positive feedback from brokers, both on policies, as well as the communication between the two parties.

“Our deep understanding of the industry and responsive approach to claims are key reasons why Zurich remains a prominent insurer in the mining and construction sector,” he says. “We are determined – by maintaining a profound understanding of [the industry’s] needs – to offer new services and solutions of demonstrable value to organisations.”

Zurich Insurance’s Mobile Plant and Equipment insurance policies have been developed with fleet managers in mind.

DIFFERENCE MAKE THE

FAE IS ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING DESIGNERS AND MANUFACTURERS OF ROAD CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE EQUIPMENT. ALBERTO ROSSO, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF FAE’S AUSTRALIA-PACIFIC DIVISION, EXPLAINS WHAT THE COMPANY HAS TO OFFER FOR THE DOMESTIC INFRASTRUCTURE SECTOR.

While its foundations are rooted in northern Italy, FAE has called Australia and New Zealand home for more than 15 years.

Servicing a variety of sectors, including land clearing, construction and demining, FAE now has a range of 90 products, spanning 400 model across the world.

FAE’s Pacific-Asia division has become the beneficiary of this international research and development.

Alberto Rosso, Managing Director of FAE’s Australia-Pacific division, says FAE’s devotion to providing the very best machinery for industry has resulted in the continual growth of the company across Australasia.

“One of our major focuses is providing quantity without compromising quality,” he says. “This business model and concept has allowed us to have a clear position in the market and we’re really proud of that.”

FAE Australia-Pacific was established in

FAE’s RPL/SSL Road Planer.

FAE’s RPM/SSL Road Planer in action.

2006 and has provided the market with a range of machinery options. Based in Dandenong South, Victoria, FAE AustraliaPacific isn’t represented by a distributor. Instead, FAE utilises its own dedicated network of branches.

In the construction space, FAE provides equipment options for applications such as stone and rock crushing, asphalt and slab rocking milling, soil stabilisation, as well as dirt and gravel roads maintenance.

FAE’s construction range is geared towards infrastructure works for all conditions, as Rosso explains.

“Our machines can handle even the harshest of conditions. Up in Darwin and the Northern Territory it’s important that our products and services are reliable,” he says. “We have seen some of our machines lodge more than 30,000 working hours, regardless of the working conditions.”

FAE’s machinery offerings were recently on show at the 2022 Bauma trade fair, the world’s largest for the construction industry.

As Rosso explains, FAE’s new innovations in Skid Steer equipment received considerable buzz during the event.

“Each of our machines are built for full-time construction companies, not weekend warriors,” he says. “Many across the industry already know our name and our quality, but we still have more to present to our customers.

“We’re really excited to introduce these new products to the Australian market.”

Rosso says the innovation and intuitive design of the new products exemplifies FAE’s commitment to best-in-class research and development.

“IN THE CONSTRUCTION SPACE, FAE PROVIDES EQUIPMENT OPTIONS FOR APPLICATIONS SUCH AS STONE AND ROCK CRUSHING, ASPHALT AND SLAB ROCKING MILLING, SOIL STABILISATION, AS WELL AS DIRT AND GRAVEL ROADS MAINTENANCE.”

FAE’S DEDICATED SERVICE

To complement its network of branches across the country, FAE Australia-Pacific also provides a high-quality after-sales support service.

Rosso says the service has been developed to ensure that operators can minimise downtime, while also optimising the operation of their machinery and equipment.

According to Rosso, FAE Pacific-Australia is able to deliver spare parts as early as one day following the placement of an order.

“Our after-sales support is very effective and we pride ourselves on our service,” he says.

FAE can also assist customers through its online support service, which is audited by FAE Group’s Service Specialists.

“When you purchase FAE equipment, you’re not just buying the machine, you’re also purchasing access to superior servicing. We have a network of dedicated aftersales support and spare parts in Australia,” he says.

Rosso believes that FAE’s “business philosophy” is one of the key factors that has contributed to the company’s growth nationally and abroad.

“In the last few years our growth in Europe has been astonishing,” he says. “We’re selling as many machines as we ever have in Australia and we’re constantly looking to expand our construction range.”

Rosso says FAE’s Australia-Pacific division will continue to expand its machinery portfolio, as well as its market reach in the region.

FAE’s Australia-Pacific division is expanding its construction range, with new equipment on the way.

Alberto Rosso, Managing Director of FAE’s Australia-Pacific division.

ASTEC’S RX600EX COLD PLANER POWERFUL AND BALANCED:

ASTEC INDUSTRIES’ RX600EX COLD PLANER HAS BEEN CHOSEN BY CIVIL INDEPENDENCE INDUSTRIES TO CARRY OUT PROFILING WORKS IN SOME OF AUSTRALIA’S HARSHEST CONDITIONS. ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE LEARNS MORE FROM DIRECTOR DEAN MILLANE AND ASTEC’S GARRY VAN DEN BELD.

Civil Independence Industries, like many in the flexible pavements industry, is making the most of one of Australia’s fastest growing sectors. Working from depots in Toowoomba, Queensland and Parkes in New South Wales, Civil Independence Industries’ scope of services includes road profiling, spray sealing, crack sealing, asphalt manufacturing and asphalt placement.

Director Rod Martino and Operations Manager Dean Millane share over 50 years of combined industry experience. The pair pride themselves on identifying the best machinery the sector has to offer, which is why the company acquired an RX600ex cold planer from Astec. Though – as Millane explains – that was not the original intention. The company was looking for a new batching system for its asphalt plant in Parkes, but Astec proposed a deal that included the RX600ex profiler as an

good to turn down.

“Astec put together a great deal that included the batching system for our Parkes asphalt plant and the two-metre profiler. We weren’t looking at purchasing a profiler, but this machine was of interest to us. We do a lot of ‘mill and fill’ asphalt projects,” he says.

THE NITTY GRITTY

The Roadtec RX600ex is a 630-horsepower four tracked cold planer, capable of achieving cuts up to 330 millimetres deep and 2.184 metres maximum width.

As Garry van den Beld, Astec National Account Manager – Mobile Asphalt explains, the RX600ex has been designed to deliver optimal balance between weight and power, and that results in excellent cutting capability.

“The RX600ex achieves great traction while maintaining the desired depth of cut. If the machine was too light, it would be

wrong places. This machine’s balance is ideal.

“And the two-metre option provided by the RX600ex is very popular here in Australia,” he says.

Like the majority of Astec’s equipment range, the RX600ex is powered by a Cummins engine. Here it’s the Cummins QSX15 Tier III diesel engine, a sustainable alternative to conventional engines and one which satisfies EPA Tier III and EU Stage 3 emission standards.

According to van den Beld, the high compliance standards of the RX600ex are a key feature for customers, with the machine’s low exhaust emission and operating noise levels making it ideal for working in inner city areas. He says that having advanced engine technologies in-built means the RX600ex is equally at home operating in tunnels or on major highway projects.

“It’s also very good when it comes to fuel economy,” says van den Beld. “If a machine is using less fuel each day, the accumulated cost savings can be significant.”

BENEFICIAL AUTOMATION

A marquee feature of the RX600ex is the machine’s ‘AUTO CUT’ mode.

As Millane explains, this feature helps to simplify operation for users, while also increasing the accuracy of cut depth.

“The new ‘AUTO CUT’ mode allows the RX600ex to self-level all four legs, before automatically adjusting the rear leg height as the rear tracks enter the cut,” he says.

And the RX600ex’s intuitive control panel has been well received by operators. The simplified system enables the machine to be controlled from either side of the operating platform, a feature that also increases line of

Civil Independence Industries acquired its first Astec Industries RX600ex profiler in 2020.

sight visibility and enhances job site safety.

Bystander safety was another priority during the development of the RX600ex. In addition to an efficient extraction system that removes dust and debris from the vicinity of the milling operation, the RX600ex also incorporates rear object detection.

This feature can stop the machine if an object or person is detected while in reverse mode. A set of E-Stop mechanical buttons at ground level can also be used to disable or stop the machine if necessary, further reducing the chances of accidental collisions with other workers or objects.

“Vibration was also a focus during development,” van den Beld says.

“Operators working long hours can experience sustained body vibration. But rubber vibration isolators on the RX600ex minimise the impact of that for operators.”

THE DRUM PHILOSOPHY

The RX600ex features an intuitive drum design which supports the quick and efficient changing of drum types.

The Astec QX1 Quick Change cutter tooling system gives users better access to worn parts located on the cutter drum. This unique system was designed to provide increased access for

running costs.

“Time is money,” van den Beld says, “so the quicker you can replace these cutting heads and get back to work, the better.”

Millane says he’s seen the advantages of Astec’s new drum design first-hand.

“The cutting drum doesn’t seem to have as much drag on the machine, even while cutting deep solid asphalt,” he says. “And even when working on soft terrain, the machine is very stable.”

ENHANCED RELIABILITY

Millane says the RX600ex has accumulated

machine’s only real downtime has been for routine maintenance.

“Currently the machine is being used on emergency flood work in Central West NSW. We can’t fault it. It’s straight-forward to set up, easy to use and very reliable,” he says.

The company has also been impressed by Astec’s on-going after sales support for repairs and spare parts.

“We’re a small business,” Millane says, “but they treat us as if we’re one of the big players in the industry. Their service has been great and overall, it’s fair to say, we’re very impressed.”

Civil Independence Industries uses the RX600ex profiler on some of its ‘mill and fill’ asphalt projects.

Astec Industries’ RX600ex profiler has been designed to provide an optimal balance between weight and power.

OVERCOMING THE BIG

CHALLENGES

JOHN DEERE’S DEREK MULLER EXPLAINS HOW THE MANUFACTURER IS DELIVERING MORE CUSTOMER VALUE WITH LESS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT.

By 2026, John Deere expects to offer more than 20 models of electric construction equipment, as well as electric compact utility tractors, commercial and residential mowers, and Gator utility vehicles.

“Why? Because our customers demand more from their equipment,” says Derek Muller, Product Manager for Electrification at John Deere.

Increasingly, Muller says, John Deere customers are looking for better performance and reliability, quieter and more intuitive operation, total cost of ownership advantages, simplified maintenance, technology enablement and scaling, as well as reduced carbon dioxide emissions.

“We’ve started this journey to solve customer pain points and deliver value,” he says. “With zero emission products, there are new assumptions customers have on what these products will be capable of.

“They want that next-generation user experience, and that’s what we plan to deliver.”

Muller says John Deere customers are facing more challenges and market pressures than ever before.

“Whether it’s our customers in construction or agriculture, they face similar challenges such as the lack of skilled labour, rising input costs, and tight deadlines,” Muller says.

“Through our line-up of electric products, we’ll look to solve some of these challenges by reducing operational and maintenance costs, while also delivering powerful and reliable performance, and intuitive operation.”

A REVOLUTIONARY IMPACT

Muller says electric technology could fundamentally change how producers view job sites.

“The more producers reduce the cost of their operations, the more flexibility

field, essentially doing more with less,” he says.

“Because they are no longer exposed to fuel costs, they can manage yield and plant health on a more frequent basis – enabled by the cost of each pass being so low.

“This means producers can focus on the health of their plants and animals, and truly optimise the material inputs such as fertilisers, chemicals, and feeds.”

Early in 2022, John Deere acquired majority ownership in Kreisel Electric, an Austrian company pioneering in immersioncooled battery technology, which provides extended battery life, efficiency in extreme climates, modular design, and mechanical stability.

LAYING THE GROUNDWORK

John Deere is not new to providing its customers with hybrid-electric equipment. For almost a decade, construction customers have had the option of John Deere’s hybrid-electric E-Drive loaders, and last year customers began testing a fully electric E-Power Backhoe.

for a machine like the 944K hybrid-electric loader, and had all the engineering in line to roll it out before anyone else,” says Jerry Gunter, Plant Manager for Winter Brothers in West Babylon, New York.

“I’m excited to learn what the folks at ‘Deere’ are working on for their next generation of machines.”

A CHOICE TO BE MADE

It will be up to John Deere customers to decide which option works best for them, whether it’s a zero-emission piece of equipment, or the traditional option.

Muller says John Deere employees are committed to ensuring each customer receives the right solution to help overcome the challenges they face.

“As an industry leader, we are stepping up to the challenge, and we will continue to innovate to deliver solutions that solve our customer paint points and deliver value,” he says.

“That’s what we’ve been doing for more than 180 years, and our customers expect nothing less.”

Electric construction equipment such as the John Deere E-Power Backhoe can help reduce the carbon footprint of jobsites.

“OUR

KEEPS US AHEAD WITH

THAT

EASIER, FASTER AND MORE

— AMERICAN PAVEMENT SPECIALISTS, DANBURY, CT

As pressure continues to build on contractors across the world to incorporate sustainability into their operations, equipment manufacturers such as JCB are working hard to provide viable alternatives.

JCB is one of the companies at the forefront of alternative fuel source innovation – a key element of its Road to Zero sustainability strategy and action plan.

The first models in the company’s fully electric range were unveiled in 2018. Since then, they’ve been gradually making their way to Australian shores; starting in 2019 with the arrival of the first JCB 19-C1E – which was the industry’s first fully electric mini excavator.

The mini excavator has since been joined by electric access platforms, an electric site dumpster and most recently, an electric ‘teletruk’.

Greg Sealey, General Manager of Distribution at CEA, says alternative fuel powered machinery is where the global markets are going, but it will be a gradual transformation.

“When it comes to electric machinery, like it did with motor vehicles, things are starting with smaller equipment,” he says.

According to Sealey, one predictable barrier to the early adoption of this newer technology is the price –something he says is true for every manufacturer, not just JCB.

“We’re all dealing with that same issue,” he says. “The cost of these machines is

certainly up there – sometimes two/ two-and-a-half times the price of the diesel equivalent.

“But there’s definitely demand building for them, for use in specific applications.”

For some, putting an electric machine on a project could be a simple way to tick sustainability boxes, but Sealey says more contracts for big jobs are starting to demand the use of electric technology.

Part of this, he suspects, comes down to the other benefits associated with electric machinery, beyond a clear environmental conscience.

“If you’re working in a hospital, an undercover car park without much ventilation, or a shopping centre or school – anywhere where noise or

JCB Electric machines offer the same performance as their diesel counterparts, but without the fumes and noise.

pollution is an issue – that’s where people are looking to these types of options,” Sealey says.

In such environments, Sealey says electric machinery could go beyond “nice-to-have” to being the only viable option. He points to JCB’s site dumpsters – which are available in both diesel and electric models – as an example.

“People may ask why you’d pay twice the price for the electric version,” he says. “But on some of these indoor sites – you’ll either be using an electric dumpster or you’ll be using a wheelbarrow.”

Sealey also sees the potential for strong uptake with customers who work on a

lot of tunnel projects across Australia.

“They don’t want diesel engines running in those tunnels, because it can be a real struggle to get rid of the fumes,” he says.

GENERATING INTEREST

Sealey expects new JCB Electric machines to keep making their way over to Australia as demand increases, along with CEA’s understanding of the local electric machinery market.

“This year, we should see the bigger one-tonne ride-on dumpsters in both diesel and electric, as well as a 2.5-tonne electric telehandler,” he says.

Sealey says CEA is also well positioned to provide the necessary support and

service for JCB’s electric range as it gains popularity in Australia.

“We had two technicians specially trained in the UK, who then came back and trained our team here,” he says.

“You’re playing with electricity, so it’s quite a different thing. You can’t necessarily just train up a diesel mechanic on these machines – they need to be certified to work on electric products.”

Sealey says CEA was lucky to have a head-start in this regard, with its technicians already supporting other brands within the CEA portfolio.

“That was a big bonus for us,” he says. “We do a lot with generators, so we already had electrical technicians in our

JCB’s 19-C1E was the industry’s first fully electric mini excavator.

“THEY DON’T WANT DIESEL ENGINES RUNNING IN THOSE TUNNELS, BECAUSE IT CAN BE A REAL STRUGGLE TO GET RID OF THE FUMES.”

The JCB HTD-5E electric dumpster is suitable for indoor or underground sites where pollution and noise are an issue.

service team to start with.”

THE RANGE OF THE RANGE

Sealey says the first question he’s always asked by customers about JCB’s electric range is about battery life – something he says can be a bit tough to quantify.

“I’ll get asked if the electric mini excavator will run for eight hours,” he says. “JCB’s official answer is that it’ll do a day’s work.”

He says this doesn’t correlate to a certain number of operational hours, as electric technology works differently to diesel.

“Until you’re actually travelling on it or pulling a lever to dump a load, it’s not

using any power,” he says. “They don’t idle as such – they just sit there until you actually go to do an action.”

For situations where the machines do need to work longer, JCB has solutions available such as fast chargers and portable lithium battery packs – the latter of which can also be used to power auxiliary gear such as light towers.

BRANCHES OF INNOVATION

For all the research and development JCB is putting into electric technology, Sealey says the company is also realistic about its limitations.

“Look, if you tried to power a 20-tonne excavator with batteries, you’d need a

20-tonne battery pack being pulled along behind it,” he says. “You can’t do that, at least with the current technology that’s out there.”

This may not be the case forever. But in the meantime, JCB continues its diverse approach to green innovation – which also gives customers the freedom to mix and match to suit their needs.

“No one solution is perfect, there’s no one-size-fits-all,” Sealey says.

“That’s why, from a JCB perspective, they’re still reducing diesel engine emissions as much as they can, developing a range of hydrogen solutions, and going electric where it’s feasible.”

AND BEYOND GOING ABOVE

PUMA BITUMEN’S LOW TEMPERATURE BINDERS, INCORPORATING CARGILL’S ANOVA WARM MIX ADDITIVE, ARE DELIVERING SIGNIFICANT ECONOMIC, ENVIRONMENTAL AND HEALTH AND SAFETY BENEFITS

aiming to reduce its carbon emissions by at least 15 per cent, by the end of 2025. Continued development and research dedicated to growing its range of more sustainable bituminous binders are pivotal in delivering on this commitment. At the same time Puma is looking for opportunities to support a reduction in downstream emissions, and this is where warm mix additives fit in, by reducing the mixing and compaction temperatures required for

Puma Bitumen’s Global Technical Manager Dr Erik Denneman says the company now offers a variety of sustainable performance-

“Low temperature options are now standard, available for all of our paving grade and polymer modified asphalt binders,” he says. “Anova warm mix additive

is a bio-based additive, thus offering the additional benefit of also providing a small negative carbon contribution to the overall footprint.”

Through incorporating warm mix additives, users can gain significant advantages, particularly when it comes to reducing energy demand and emission output during production. Puma incorporates Cargill’s Anova warm mix additive, which has been proven to allow production temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius lower than conventional hot mix asphalt.

Puma Bitumen’s warm mix additives are representative of the company’s commitment towards sustainability.

Puma Bitumen has added Cargill’s Anova warm mix additive to its performanceenhancing additive range.

SUSTAINABILITY

SIGNIFICANT SAVINGS

Puma LT warm mix asphalt provides a host of efficiencies for the user. The most notable of which is sustainability savings.

Denneman says the reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from asphalt mix production assists the user in limiting their impact on the environment.

“This is the main benefit which can be achieved,” he says.

“We estimate that an asphalt plant using Puma’s warm mix additive can achieve CO2 savings of approximately three kilograms per tonne of asphalt, if they’re using natural gas as fuel.”

Puma Bitumen’s warm mix asphalt doesn’t just offer environment benefits, they are also easy on the consumers’ bottom line, thanks to considerable cost savings from a reduction in energy consumption.

“There’s a significant energy saving in terms of gigajoules used in heating up the asphalt. If we’re looking at a 30 degree Celsius reduction in mixing temperature, we estimate that the cost savings for customers can be anywhere between one and three dollars per tonne,” Denneman says.

“Energy costs are really volatile at the moment, so the value of these savings should not be underestimated.”

Long-term cost benefits should also be highlighted, with warm mix asphalt also enhancing the durability of roads, therefore, reducing the frequency and volume of maintenance over time when compared to conventional hot mix asphalt.

Denneman adds that the additive can easily be implemented into existing production processes by customers.

“We can offer our customers a turnkey solution. They receive the binder with a preblended warm additive, after that they don’t need to make any changes at all, other than reducing their mixing temperature,” he says.

These warm mix asphalts can also be used in conjunction with other Puma Bitumen products, as Denneman explains.

“They work very well hand-in-hand with our new bio-based bitumen extenders which feature a biogenic component,” he says.

In fact, Puma Bitumen’s A15E polymer modified binder formulation, while incorporating Puma biogenic bitumen extender, has a 150 kilogram CO2-eq (carbon dioxide equivalent) lower carbon footprint than conventional A15E.

In combination with a 30 degree Celsius reduction in asphalt production temperature

thanks to Puma LT, the total CO2-eq savings would be 11 kilograms per tonne of asphalt from a natural gas-powered plant, and 12 kilograms for a diesel-powered plant.

THE ANOVA DIFFERENCE

In collaboration with Cargill, Puma Bitumen has added the Anova warm mix additive products to its existing catalogue.

As Susan Listberger, Cargill Asphalt Solutions’ Commercial Manager explains, both companies were aligned in their vision of creating a sustainable, high-performance and safe alternative for paving grade bitumen or polymer modified bitumen.

“Development on Anova asphalt additives started about 10 years ago, but

“The feedstocks used to make the product come from rapidly renewable resources, so each year – and in some cases more frequently – the feedstocks are regenerated and can be harvested again. Products made with renewable feedstocks have significant environmental advantages compared with fossil-fuel-based products,” Listberger says.

“That’s what makes our Anova asphalt additives so unique and makes me proud to be a part of Cargill Asphalt Solutions and the asphalt industry in general.”

For the future, Denneman believes increasing the sustainability and safety of existing products is easily achievable.

“Reducing the asphalt mixing temperature

“WE ESTIMATE THAT AN ASPHALT PLANT USING PUMA’S WARM MIX ADDITIVE CAN ACHIEVE CO2 SAVINGS OF APPROXIMATELY THREE KILOGRAMS PER TONNE OF ASPHALT, IF THEY’RE USING NATURAL GAS AS FUEL.”

Cargill has been specifically engineering and formulating products for industrial applications for more than 70 years. Our Anova asphalt additives have been an evolution of that focus,” Listberger says.

“We really believe that a product has to perform as good or better than the alternatives, so performance is at the forefront of product development. But we also always keep in mind the safety of our products as well. Anova warm mix additive is bio-based and non-hazardous. Being nonhazardous is a big benefit to many of our customers – it means the product is safer and easier for workers to handle.”

The Anova warm mix additive is also manufactured sustainably.

by 30 degrees Celsius across the board is definitely achievable. The industry should be aiming for that and we’ll certainly be supporting that,” Denneman says.

“Because the benefits in terms of energy savings, carbon footprint savings and also worker health and safety are just so clear, using products such as these is the way to go. It’s very low hanging fruit.”

Puma Bitumen’s warm mix asphalt, including Cargill’s Anova, is now available across Australia, with many projects already reporting impressive results.

“Our products are available from all terminals. We’re ready for customers to use these products every day,” Denneman says.

UP TO THE CHALLENGE

SAMI BITUMEN TECHNOLOGIES’ SAMIFLOAT EMULSION SPRAY SEALING SOLUTION HAS BEEN PUT TO THE TEST. ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE LEARNS HOW THE PRODUCT PERFORMED AND WHAT’S TO COME.

Ever since its inception in 1978, SAMI Bitumen Technologies has been recognised as one of the industry’s leaders when it comes to research and development.

SAMI Bitumen Technologies is responsible for the creation and introduction of many products that are now considered and used as standard domestically. This includes polymer modified binders, emulsions and polymer modified emulsions.

For years, hot modified cutback binders were the method of choice for Australia’s spray sealing industry.

However, a shift towards sustainable road construction, as well as safer and easier to use products, encouraged SAMI Bitumen Technologies to develop an alternative and SAMIfloat was born.

Developed in early 2022, SAMIfloat is a polymer cationic high-float (thixotropic) sprayed sealing emulsion. High Float emulsions are designed to have a gel structure that prevents the flow of residual binder.

It represents the company’s commitment to producing innovative products,

particularly when it comes to sprayed sealing.

SAMI Bitumen Technologies National R&D and Laboratory Manager Kanjana Yindee says that unlike conventional bitumen emulsions, SAMIfloat leaves more than just the residual, after the water evaporates.

“SAMIfloat creates a gel structure in the residue that permits a thicker binder coating on the aggregate particles,” Yindee explains. “SAMIfloat residue is resistant to flow at high temperatures while not being affected as much by low ambient temperatures.”

The SAMIfloat concept has been further developed to create a ‘high float emulsion’ that is more suited to Australian conditions.

“Australia’s climate has warmed, and the duration, frequency and intensity of extreme heat events have increased across large parts of Australia [Bureau of Meteorology 2016],” Yindee says. “As a result, spray seal binders from conventional emulsion typically used in the past may not function and be suitable.

“Colas Canada (a subsidiary of the Colas family) uses high float emulsions to construct graded seals as standard practice. The Colas Canada team has long experiences and technical skills with the use of anionic

high float emulsion. We worked very closely with them to engage their expertise for the development of this new binder.”

The high float emulsion provides increased resilience for the residual binder at colder temperatures, while also enhancing the performance of the binder in warmer temperatures. This is thanks to the gel structure of the residue, which can also enable greater stone retention as well as reduced delays when opening the road to traffic following construction.

THE TRIAL

SAMI Bitumen Technologies recently put the SAMIfloat through its paces at a trial in Glen Innes, New South Wales.

Andrew Meggatt, Colas Northern New South Wales Operations Supervisor, oversaw the trial that examined the performance of the product in Australian conditions.

“The main objective of the trial was to implement a new product that hadn’t been sprayed before in Australia, which could deliver the same results as the products the client had used previously,” Meggatt says.

“We also wanted to implement a graded

SAMI Bitumen Technologies recently conducted trials of the SAMIfloat emulsion in Glen Innes, New South Wales.

seal that was more environmentally friendly by reducing our greenhouse gas emissions. This was achieved by reducing the volume of cutters required, to make the material more flexible, which meant not having to burn excessive fuel to heat the material to be sprayed evenly across the pavement.”

Meggatt says the Glen Innes region presented an ideal location for these trials, due to the variety of weather conditions.

“The region experiences weather on two very different ends of the spectrum. In summer, the temperature exceeds 30 degrees Celsius, with road temperatures reaching close to 50 degrees Celsius. In winter, it’s often freezing,” he says.

“These fluctuations in temperature can place immense strain on the pavement wearing courses. The Glen Innes Severn Council Shire, which has seen our business

complete close to 100 kilometres of traditional graded seal, was eager to discover what else would work best for their unsealed road network.”

According to Meggatt, SAMIfloat performed better than expected.

Expectations were that the high application rate and road gradient would result in the emulsion flowing to the lowest point when applied. This would have resulted in a lack of emulsion to maintain aggregate adhesion, but Meggatt says the emulsion barely ran off, instead adhering quickly with the aggregate.

“The emulsion trial was sprayed in

conjunction with a traditional cutback modified binder graded seal to compare its performance under the same weather and traffic conditions. The emulsion has performed better under the weather and traffic conditions, there is minimal flushing of binder and there is a slight increase in stone retention,” Meggatt says.

Despite his previous experience with emulsions in the industry, even Meggatt was surprised by the trial results.

“Traditionally emulsion seals have not been as effective as traditional hot binder seals, due to more time required for their cohesion development and having to limit their exposure to traffic early post placement,” he says.

“However, this emulsion was opened to vehicle movements within 10 minutes of application. It also received some rain during the night, which didn’t affect the seal.”

SAMI Bitumen Technologies will now conduct further trials, including applications such as single spray sealing with uncoated dusty aggregate.

“If it works very well with graded seal and single chip seal, we would love for this product to become the preferred alternative for new and resealing projects in Australia,” Yindee says.

The Glen Innes trial aimed to understand the spray-ability, setting time and residue behaviour of the emulsion product.

“THIS EMULSION WAS OPENED TO VEHICLE MOVEMENTS WITHIN 10 MINUTES OF APPLICATION. IT ALSO RECEIVED SOME RAIN DURING THE NIGHT AND DID NOT RE-EMULSIFY.”

SAMIfloat was developed as a viable alternative to hot modified cutback binders.

A PEEK INSIDE CONSTRUCTION EXPO

ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE PROVIDES A SNEAK-PEEK INTO THIS YEAR’S INSIDE CONSTRUCTION EXPO.

As Australia continues its transition towards a more circular economy, industry leaders from the construction sector have been voicing the need for the increased use of recycled material in major infrastructure projects.

According to Show Director Lauren Winterbottom, the circular economy will be an area of focus for the Inside Construction Expo, which is slated for 20-21 September 2023 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

“We are specifically looking to showcase companies that manufacture solutions for the construction industry out of recycled products,” she says. “We know this is a component of many major contract tenders now, and one that will only grow.”

Winterbottom says this push for sustainability in construction is central to the event’s ‘Engineering the Future’ theme – one that will revolve around a showcase for the achievements and opportunities presented by Victoria’s Big Build.

“Victoria’s Big Build program is ploughing ahead with speed,” Winterbottom says. “Inside Construction Expo will provide a platform to explore these projects, and a forum to connect equipment companies with the contractors who have won tenders to work on these major infrastructure projects.”

One such project, the construction of the Mordialloc Freeway in Melbourne’s south east, is often held up as an example of how the Recycled First Policy can be implemented effectively.

According to Victoria’s Big Build, the project was responsible for recycling 570 tonnes of plastic waste into noise walls; laid 75 tonnes of 100 per cent recycled plastic draining pipes; used more than 321 tonnes of sustainable roadbase and asphalt – including more than 202 million bottles worth of recycled glass; and diverted 97 per cent of its construction waste from landfill.

Elsewhere, groups such as Tyre Stewardship Australia (TSA) and the Australian Flexible

Pavement Association (AfPA) are working tirelessly to boost the uptake of endof-life tyre-derived crumb rubber in road construction.

Winterbottom hopes Inside Construction Expo can help play a part in showcasing the benefits of this push for circularity in construction, and keep the wheel of demand turning for recycled products.

“It’s important to us that the event is contributing to the future growth of the industry,” she says. “And it’s clear that in order for that to be the case, we need to ensure that companies providing these environmentally friendly solutions have a seat at the table.”

BACK ON SITE

In 2022 the construction industry faced its share of challenges – many of which could last through 2023 and beyond. Skilled labour shortages and supply chain disruptions caused by COVID-19 have forced the sector to adapt and evolve to keep pace with a booming national infrastructure pipeline.

Winterbottom says there is no better time for a new in-person event such as Inside Construction Expo, not only to provide a forum for discussion around

these challenges, but to celebrate those who have overcome them.

“The past two and a half years have shown us that people value in-person events more than ever,” she says. “While virtual events helped to fill the void, they just can’t compare to a face-to-face networking opportunity.

“Inside Construction Expo will provide a forum to address some of the big challenges facing the construction and infrastructure industry, and to help ensure that the future of the sector is strong.”

The two-day event will feature more than 100 speakers across four streams, an awards gala, and more than 15,000 square metres of exhibition space, including a large construction equipment showcase – one Winterbottom hopes will turn some heads.

“We want to do everything we can to help connect our exhibitors with their target customers,” she says. “We’re always thrilled when exhibitors tell us they’ve sold a piece of equipment or signed a new supply contract as a result of their participation in an expo. It reinforces that we’re bringing value back to the industry.”

For more information, visit: www. insideconstructionexpo.com.au

The event will showcase Victoria’s Big Build program, its achievements, and the opportunities it offers the industry.

CAPABLE OF? WHAT ARE YOU

GET PREPARED FOR THE RETURN OF THE ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE CONTRACTOR CAPABILITY SHOWCASE IN 2023.

Across the world, skilled labour shortages and ongoing supply chain disruptions continue to put pressure not only on the roads, construction, and infrastructure sectors, but on the global economy as a whole.

Nowhere is this more keenly felt than in Australia, where the past few years have made the oceans around the massive island nation feel vaster and more isolating than ever before.

But as our cities and regions continue to expand, the roads and infrastructure industry must find a way to push through these challenges – all the while navigating a growing demand for safer, smarter, greener, and more reliable solutions.

The push for socially and environmentally conscious procurement has given the decision makers of the

communities these projects serve are reaping the benefits, from better connected cities to more green spaces.

Rapid advancements in technology are also reshaping how projects are funded, managed, and implemented; as digitalisation, drones, and smart machinery take the world by storm.

Amidst these winds of change, major projects across the country continue to push forward, and the infrastructure pipeline for the near future is flowing with promise at council, state, and Federal levels. With all of this in mind, those feeding that pipeline need to be attuned to exactly who is doing what in the ever-growing roads and infrastructure sectors.

To help remove some of the friction in this process, Roads & Infrastructure Magazine , in partnership with the

April 2023, following another positive response from its 2022 iteration.

The showcase is designed as a convenient go-to resource to help asset managers, road owners, and governments to easily find contractors for projects of any size and scale.

2022’s Contractor Capability Showcase provided a resource of more than 250 contractors, covering everything from earthworks and asphalt paving to line marking and materials recycling.

Now, Roads & Infrastructure is inviting all contractors and material suppliers to list their business in 2023’s showcase for free.

Whether your business specialises in asphalt paving, soil stabilisation, bitumen additives, or traffic research – we’d like to hear from you!

The 2023 Roads & Infrastructure

The Contractor Capability Showcase is designed to be a go-to resource to help asset managers, road owners, and governments to source contractors.

FOUNDATION AFPA AND THE RIZEUP

Domestic and Family Violence has a devastating impact on any person affected by it. Leaving such a situation can be a terrifying and isolating experience.

RizeUp works to support families who are brave enough to leave the situation and start over in a safe environment.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), as of 2016, one in six women had experienced physical or sexual violence by a partner since the age of 15. AIHW also reported that 69 per cent of domestic homicide victims were female. 61 per cent of those victims were killed by an intimate partner.

RizeUp began after CEO Nicolle Edwards heard a compelling story about a woman who travelled interstate to escape domestic and family violence.

“I heard a story about a woman who had presented to a local hospital with her baby and three older children. She had jumped on a train in Perth and crossed the country because she felt this was the only way she could get to safety. This mum fled across the country because of the violence she and her children were facing at home by her husband,” Edwards said.

“When I heard about the plight of this family, I did what any of us would do – I put a call out to my network using social media and low and behold by the end of that first week we had all but housed this family. We had sourced beds, clothes, furniture – you name it. And that was it for me, I guess. When I thought about this one lady and what lengths she had gone to get to safety, all I could do was wonder how many more there were in the same situation.”

From there, Edwards quickly grew a network to assist those in similar situations, who needed direction. RizeUp was born.

RizeUp have a range of programs to offer those in need of support. The rapid

response program, which sources critical items instantaneously for emergency relocations etc. The Homes program, which sources, furnishes, and sets up homes for clients who are restarting after domestic violence. Youth Enrichment Support Solutions, which supports families by providing essential items of clothing to start at a new school.

RizeUp also have a Trauma Recovery hub. The hub is a dynamic response that is so desperately needed to help traumatised families begin to heal and recover. RizeUp support vulnerable families to access counselling or other medical bills that they have not been able to before. This could be due to being from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and unable to financially access counselling

network of volunteers, who come from many walks of life with the same passion.

“We have a broad cross-section of volunteers and that’s further underpinned by the scope of professions. We have CEOs, painters, accountants, stay at home mums, grant legends. We have enormously successful entrepreneurial people in the team and the thing that connects us together is our shared passion for social justice and altruism. It doesn’t matter who we all are, or where we may have come from, our moral compasses are aligned.” Edwards said.

“They are signing up because this is a passion that might be resonating with them for several reasons. It could be that through their own lived experience of growing up in house of violence or having lived

“THE RIZEUP DENTAL HUB HAS A GROWING TEAM OF DENTISTS WHO ARE HAPPY TO EITHER DONATE THEIR TIME OR OFFER A REDUCED RATE FOR THE FAMILIES REFERRED BY RIZEUP.”

services, or Australian families who simply can’t financially afford to cover the gap.

The RizeUp Dental hub has a growing team of dentists who are happy to either donate their time or offer a reduced rate for the families referred by RizeUp. Thanks to this generosity, RizeUp are able to offer essential dentistry work to those families who are in dire need of dentistry but again, are unable to either afford the gap or financially access dentistry services.

Today, RizeUp has helped over 2000 families flee Domestic and Family Violence situations.

“RizeUp is recognised as a groundbreaking service and an integral part of the exit strategy engaged in moving on after the devastation of domestic violence,” Edwards said.

RizeUp wouldn’t be able to achieve everything it has without its wonderful

sexual trauma, it could be also that they are passionate advocates who like me are intent on creating great outcomes for the people in our community.”

Australian Flexible Pavements Association (AfPA) supported RizeUp at their gala dinner on October 14. $25 per ticket sold went to the charity and $10,020 was raised on the mycause page.

AFPA Executive Director Tanja Conners said RizeUp is making a real difference in the community.

“The association saw the value in the work RizeUp was doing and the difference it was making to those affected by family and domestic violence,” Conners said.

“The 12-month marketing lead up to our NSW and National Awards night, which had over 300 attendees, provided an ideal environment to help spread the message of support for the foundation.”

THE AUSTRALIAN FLEXIBLE PAVEMENTS ASSOCIATION HAS BECOME A KEEN SUPPORTER OF RIZEUP, AN ORGANISATION HELPING TO CHANGE THE LIVES OF FAMILIES IMPACTED BY VIOLENCE. AS NICOLE EDWARDS EXPLAINS.

PAVING THE WAY

FOR INDUSTRY

THE AUSTRALIAN FLEXIBLE PAVEMENT

ASSOCIATION HAS DEVELOPED AN INNOVATIVE INDUSTRY SKILLS CARD, WHICH AIMS TO SUPPORT CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND ATTRACT MORE INDIVIDUALS TO THE INDUSTRY.

As the nation’s leading industry association for the bituminous surfacing industry, the Australian Flexible Pavement Association (AfPA) has been responsible for driving and inspiring change throughout the sector.

AfPA’s latest endeavour aims to provide a lasting career pathway through the industry, which will not only increase the quality of bituminous surfacing, but also maximise the safety and retention of individuals, paving the way for better road surfaces nationally.

According to Road Traffic Technology, Australia has the world’s ninth-largest road network, totalling more than 823,000 kilometres in length.

AfPA has recognised the significance and role that such a resource plays in connecting communities. As such, AfPA considers the bituminous surfacing industry as a specialist trades skill set.

The industry skills card, developed by AfPA in partnership with industry stakeholders, serves to ensure quality, safety, long term durability, performance, and workforce sustainability, while also identifying career pathways through industry.

One of the main objectives during the development of the industry skills card was to ensure that the qualification could be recognised as a trade equivalent, which could provide confidence and a certification of quality. It also acts to attract and maintain talent within the industry.

Therefore, one of AfPA’s ambitions for the future is to have the industry skills card embedded within the current procurement process.

The industry skills card is also transferrable and can recognise past achievements, as well as additional academies which are offered by

organisations within the industry.

Within the industry skills card, a variety of skill sets have been developed, to ensure that those who deliver the nation’s roads possess qualifications specific to the industry.

These include certifications on Safely Handling Bituminous Materials, Asphalt Surfacing, Spray Sealing, Profile Planer Operations, Insitu Stabilisation Operations and more.

Skillsets for each category have been developed in accordance with the national qualification RII30920 Certificate III in Civil Construction –Bituminous Surfacing.

Each skillset unit will be delivered by AfPA endorsed registered training organisations. Each of these organisations will also have the opportunity to access an archive of

industry developed resources, which have been compiled by AfPA.

Once completed, participants and businesses can view certificates for the completion of the industry skills card via mobile PDFs. Participants will also be able to rewatch training videos from the course digitally once they have completed the scheme.

SO, WHAT NOW?

AfPA is currently negotiating sources of funding for the scheme nationally, as the association encourages industry, local government and other organisations to implement the industry skills card into the procurement and contractual process.

For more information on the AfPA Industry Skills Card, visit: www.afpa.asn.au

The Australian Flexible Pavement Association’s industry skills card will help to develop industry specific skills for participants.

NEW PRESIDENT AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR PEAK PRECAST BODY

National Precast Concrete Association Australia has a new Board of Directors and Jeff Stratford, General Manager of Euro Precast in Queensland, has been elected President for 2022-24.

According to CEO Sarah Bachmann, Stratford takes the reins from Michael Waeger of Waeger Constructions, who

us to improve our value proposition for members and the broader precast industry, by introducing new services and reducing fees for precasters. We are now ready to make more precasters aware of what we do and the value the Association can bring to their business.”

“Jeff, as he leads the remainder of the Board – many of whom are new – is keen to make further changes and is enthusiastic about realising the planned growth in membership and strengthening our voice

With a long involvement with National Precast, Stratford is stepping up to the role of President having served on the Board while General Manager of Euro Precast’s

Queensland operations, and having previously spent many years working for Reid Construction Systems.

Also remaining on the Board is Michael Waeger, as Immediate Past President. He and Stratford are joined by existing Board members who have been reappointed – Alberto Ferraro from PERMAcast and Riccardo Musella from Reinforced Earth.

Peter Healy, Hollow Core Concrete’s Managing Director has stepped down from the Board, and his son, General Manager Joe Healy, has been appointed. Also newly appointed to the Board are Brett Foster from Advanced Precast, Michael Hudson from Hudson Civil, Chris Kouris from Reid Construction Systems, and Professional Associate Individual Members with a long precast history, Bob Connell and Simon Hughes.

“We sincerely thank retiring Board members Craig Zinn from Stresscrete for his many years served on the Board and as President, Jason Walsh from Delta Corporation and John Cole from Austral Precast,” Bachmann says.

“OUR LAST STRATEGIC PLAN POSITIONED US TO IMPROVE OUR VALUE PROPOSITION FOR MEMBERS AND THE BROADER PRECAST INDUSTRY, BY INTRODUCING NEW SERVICES AND REDUCING FEES FOR PRECASTERS. WE ARE NOW READY TO MAKE MORE PRECASTERS AWARE OF WHAT WE DO AND THE VALUE THE ASSOCIATION CAN BRING TO THEIR BUSINESS .”

Leading the helm of National Precast for the next two years is newly elected President Jeff Stratford, Euro Precast Queensland’s General Manager, along with longstanding CEO Sarah Bachmann.

NATIONAL PRECAST MEMBER PROFILE

ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE SITS DOWN WITH THE NATIONAL COMMERCIAL MANAGER OF ONE OF NATIONAL PRECAST’S INDUSTRY PARTNER MEMBERS, DULUX ACRATEX, TO DISCUSS HIS INVOLVEMENT IN THE PRECAST INDUSTRY. HERE, PAUL AUGELLO PROVIDES AN INSIGHT INTO HIS EXPERIENCES.

decorative and protective coating solutions to new construction and remediation projects. We assist all parties with project facilitation – from concept to completion – to help deliver project objectives for all project stakeholders.

WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR CURRENT ROLE?

Providing clients and their clients with technical support for façade solutions to provide long term protection to their assets and investment.

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST ACHIEVEMENT IN THE INDUSTRY?

The opportunity to assist industry professionals with façade solutions across Australia, Southeast Asia, New Zealand and China over number of decades.

WHAT IS A RECENT CHANGE YOU HAVE SEEN IN THE INDUSTRY AND HOW ARE YOU/THE COMPANY PREPARED FOR THAT?

NCC (National Construction Code) Compliance is now at the forefront

“ACRATILT IS A MID-BUILD FLEXIBLE DECORATIVE PROTECTIVE COATING THAT CAN BE APPLIED FOR A SMOOTH PAINT LOOK FINISH AND/OR AS A LIGHTLY TEXTURED FINISH THAT ENSURES LONG TERM PROTECTION WITH GREATER COLOUR CONSISTENCY.”

of a lot of what we do because of the combustible cladding issues that have caused such devastation. Surveyors now are wanting NCC compliant solutions for coatings, however the real challenge that remains is providing compliance and a warrantable fit for purpose coating solution.

WHAT DO YOU THINK IS MOST INTERESTING ABOUT THE PRECAST INDUSTRY?

The variety of members and their passion for the industry – we are keen to better understand their manufacturing processes and objectives so that we can work together to deliver better outcomes for clients.

Paul Augello, Dulux Acratex National Commercial Manager.

CONTRACTS IN BRIEF

ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE PROVIDES AN UPDATE ON SOME OF THE CONTRACTS AND TENDERS RECENTLY AWARDED OR PUT TO MARKET ACROSS THE AUSTRALIAN INFRASTRUCTURE SECTOR.

NEW SOUTH WALES

$1.6B contract awarded for final Sydney Metro West tunnelling works

A John Holland, CPB Contractors (CPB) and Ghella joint venture (JCG JV) has been awarded a $1.63 billion contract to deliver the final stage of tunnelling on the Sydney Metro West project. Sydney Metro West is a new 24-kilometre metro line with stations confirmed at Westmead, Parramatta, Sydney Olympic Park, North Strathfield, Burwood North, Five Dock, The Bays, Pyrmont and Hunter Street in the Sydney CBD. This new underground railway will connect Greater Parramatta and the Sydney CBD and will double the rail capacity between the two CBDs, linking new communities to rail services and supporting employment growth and housing supply. The Eastern Tunnelling contract includes works to deliver 3.5 kilometres of metro rail tunnels between the Bays and Hunter Street in the Sydney CBD. This is the third and final major tunnelling package awarded on this project, and represents the last tunnelling works to build the 24-kilometre metro rail tunnels from Westmead to the Sydney CBD. The Eastern Tunnelling contract also includes a turnback cavern to the east of the new Hunter Street Station, allowing trains to turn around before travelling back towards Parramatta. Sydney Metro West is on track to be completed in 2030.

$700M New England Highway bypass tenderers shortlisted

The New South Wales Government has released its shortlist of tenderers to design and build the New England Highway bypass at Singleton. The New England Highway is part of the inland Sydney to Brisbane National Land Transport Network, and is the primary route connecting the Upper Hunter with Maitland and Newcastle. Acciona, Fulton Hogan, and John Holland have been shortlisted for the planned bypass, which will aim to improve the movement of freight and journeys for current and future traffic demands. The Federal Government has committed $560 million, and the New South Wales Government is providing $140 million to deliver the project. The bypass is expected to open to traffic in late 2026.

John Holland selected for M7 Widening and M7-M12 Interchange Project contracts

John Holland has been selected as the preferred contractor to deliver the design and construction components of the M7 Widening & M7-M12 Interchange Project in New South Wales. The proposal, which has received stage three approval from the New South Wales Government, includes widening the M7

Motorway and the delivery of the M7-M12 interchange, including a connection between Elizabeth Drive and the M12 Motorway. Widening the Westlink M7 would improve journey times for freight and motorists and support the future M12 Motorway and the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport. The M12 Motorway will provide direct access to Western Sydney International Airport at Badgerys Creek and connect to Sydney’s motorway network. Both projects are expected to provide faster and more reliable connections, while also providing better trips for freight. The contract is being delivered on behalf of WSO Co – a joint venture comprising Transurban Group, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and QIC Private Capital on behalf of its managed funds and clients.

VICTORIA Alliance awarded $721M in level crossing removal contracts

The Victorian Government has awarded two level crossing removal contracts to an alliance comprising Laing O’Rourke, Jacobs, and Metro Trains, in partnership with the Level Crossing Removal Project. The Alliance will deliver a $149 million contract to remove the Bedford Road level crossing, and a $572 million contract to remove the Dublin Road, Coolstore Road and Cave Hill Road level crossings. The Bedford Road and Dublin Road level crossings will be removed by building rail trenches under the roads, making Ringwood level crossing free by 2025. A new Ringwood East Station will be delivered as part of the Dublin Road level crossing removal, including around 460 new and upgraded car parking spaces. New walking and cycling connections will include the missing link from the 19.2-kilometre Heathmont Rail Trail to Bedford Park as part of the Bedford Road level crossing removal. A new Croydon Station will be built, with two entrances, improved safety and access, and better facilities for passengers. New walking and cycling paths will also be built through the precinct to improve connections for pedestrians and cyclists. The level crossing at Cave Hill Road, Lilydale will also be closed, and a new pedestrian underpass will be built to provide a safe connection across the rail line to Lilydale High School and nearby homes and businesses. The new underpass, with stairs and ramps, will connect to future walking and cycling paths as part of development in the area. Works will start this year and the level crossings will be gone by 2025, making the Lilydale Line level crossing free, and the

Belgrave Line level crossing free between the City and Ferntree Gully.

QUEENSLAND

Contract awarded for works on $300M Centenary Bridge

The construction contract for the Centenary Bridge in Queensland has been awarded to Georgiou Group and BMD Constructions, as a joint venture. The Centenary Bridge carries more than 85,000 vehicles a day and current traffic modelling shows that by 2036, around 152,000 vehicles per day will want to cross the bridge. The current project proposal is to develop a new three lane northbound bridge, along with the rehabilitation of the existing bridges to three lanes southbound, plus opportunities for improved active transport. The Centenary Bridge Upgrade will reduce the frequency and severity of crashes, while increasing efficiency and travel time reliability between Brisbane’s western suburbs, local destinations and the CBD. The Federal and Queensland governments are jointly funding the $298.5 million project. Construction on the project will start next year.

WESTERN

AUSTRALIA

Contract awarded for final stage of $85M Bussell Highway duplication

Construction on the final section of the Bussell Highway Duplication in south-eastern Western Australia is set to get underway. MACA Civil Pty Ltd has been awarded a construction contract for the work, which will include the duplication of the remaining 12-kilometre section of the highway, from Hutton Road through to Busselton. Stage one of the project, which was completed in December 2021, saw the construction of a new five-kilometre section of highway, duplicating the road from just south of Spurr Street to Hutton Road. A further three-kilometre section of dual carriageway, between Hutton Road and north of Ludlow River, was completed in April 2022. More than 15,000 vehicles use this stretch of highway each day. The duplication will increase capacity and safety, including more overtaking opportunities between Bunbury and Busselton. The project is jointly funded by the Federal and State governments, and is expected to be completed by late 2024.

INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR PORTABLE ENERGY

Built to withstand a variety of conditions the Atlas Copco range of lighting towers are robust and offer unrivalled efficiencies ensuring they are both reliable and can operate for an extensive period of time.

• Fuel efficient, ensuring longer running hours

• Specially designed directional optics offering incredible light distribution

• LED HiLight towers achieve up to 6.000 square-metres of light coverage with an average level of 20 luxes

• A life expectancy of more than 50.000 hours

• Aluminium casting, providing heavy duty protection

Small Asphalt Rollers Compact

and Smart

DYNAPACS SIXTH GENERATION SMALL ASPHALT ROLLERS - READY TO ROLL

Dynapac’s sixth generation CC1300VI and CC1400VI small asphalt rollers are designed and built to meet the construction industries ever evolving and tough conditions. The new design has resulted in a robust, comfortable and modern machine that still achieves the market leading compaction results that Dynapac is renowned for.

The new generation has a unique cross mounted engine providing exceptional access to engine and hydraulic components. This new engine concept and the slideable operators seat combine to increase visibility to drum edges and the greater worksite. High vibration frequency, offsetability of the drum, high efficiency eccentrics and options such as edge press devices and chip spreaders all improve compaction efficiency and versatility.