ConstructionWorX - Winter 2019

THE VOICE OF THE UK CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT INDUSTRY

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CEA

WINTER 2019

The Future Factory – rise of the Cobots!

– Tomorrow’s augmented worker’s reality

POWER TO THE PEOPLE

– MOBILE POWER – THE QUIET REVOLUTION

SOUTH AFRICA – PROBLEMS BUT PROSPECTS – A SNEAK PEEK AT THE OFF-HIGHWAY RESEARCH STUDY

HS2

– THE NEED TO KEEP THE BIG PROJECT ON TRACK

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ConstructionWorX Contents

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CEA

WINTER 2019

Regulars

06

Member News Hard Data

THE FUTURE FACTORY – RISE OF THE COBOTS!

International News

Insights from the Manufacturing Technology Centre.

27

POWER TO THE PEOPLE

SOUTH AFRICA – MARKET PROSPECTS A sneak peek at the OffHighway Research study.

47

A DAY IN THE LIFE Introducing Ellie Potter.

www.constructionworx.co.uk The Construction Equipment Association (also trading as CEA) Unit 19 Omega Business Village, Thurston Road, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL6 2NJ. UK. T: +44 (0)20 8253 4502 F: +44 (0)20 8253 4510 E: info@thecea.org.uk W: www.thecea.org.uk

In the Lobby A Day in the Life

Contents

Mobile power provides solutions to power outages, and more.

40

05 15 35 38 45 47

From the Chief Executive

Features

From the Chief Executive ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������05 The Future Factory: Rise of the Cobots! ���������������������������������������������������������������������������06 Movers & Shakers ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������12 CEA Members List �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������14 Member News ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������15 New Members ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������21 Member Profile: Gate7 ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������24 Power to the People: Heroes don’t always wear capes �����������������������������������������27 Hard Data: UK market outlook – cloudy, with a chance of rain ������������������������35 International Events ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������38 Off-Highway Reasearch: South Africa – problems but prospects �������������������40 BDO: IR35 reform rules – are you ready? �������������������������������������������������������������������������42 MPA: The Digital Mind of Manufacturing �����������������������������������������������������������������������42 Beyond Brexit: Preparation and Planning �����������������������������������������������������������������������43 In the Lobby: Airbus/Boeing dispute �������������������������������������������������������������������������������45

HS2 – Back in the Political Firing Line �����������������������������������������������46 A day in the life: Ellie Potter, Nylacast Engineered Products �������������������������������47 Technical: Dale's Diary ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������49 Stop Press! ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������52 CECE: “From bricks to bytes” ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������53 CESAR: CEA Announce New Recruit ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������54

MANAGING EDITOR Rob Oliver E: rob.oliver@thecea.org.uk PRODUCTION Joanna Oliver MBE E: joanna.oliver@thecea.org.uk ADVERTISING SALES Angela Spink E: angela.spink@thecea.org.uk CEA/SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT Louise Carney E: louise@louise-carney.co.uk

PUBLISHER Enigma Creative Unit 19 Omega Business Village, Thurston Road, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL6 2NJ. UK. T: +44 (0)1609 617117 E: info@enigmacreative.co.uk W: www.enigmacreative.co.uk PRINT & MAILING PlatinumHPL Park House, Hookstone Park, Harrogate, HG2 7DB. UK

The Construction Equipment Association (also trading as CEA) is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 04930967. VAT number 243 3858 54.

Registered Office: Unit 19 Omega Business Village, Thurston Road, Northallerton, England, DL6 2NJ. UK. © 2019 The Construction Equipment Association. Although care has been taken in preparing the information supplied in this publication, the CEA does not and cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions and accepts no liability whatsoever for any loss or damage howsoever arising. Any views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the CEA.

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ConstructionWorX From the Chief Executive

Rob Oliver Chief Executive

Construction Equipment Association

CEA Management Council Rory Keogh Gomaco International Ltd Alan Batty Bomag (GB) Ltd Sam Mottram Caterpillar (UK) Ltd Nick Ground GKD Technik Ltd Charles Stevenson JCB Sales Ltd Stuart Blackham Komatsu UK Ltd Paul Ross Ricardo Plc Keith Dolbear TriMark Europe Ltd Mark Ormond Manitou Kate Wickham MBE Gate 7 Gregg Horne Mecalac CE UK Ltd David Waine British Steel Nick Allen SMT

Executive Board Rob Oliver Rory Keogh Nick Ground Nigel Baseley Paul Ross Harry McKeen

Honorary President David Bell

Patrons Dr Susan Scurlock MBE Malcolm Harbour CBE

From the Chief Executive LET’S REACH OUT

– and meet in the middle At the 2019 CECE Summit, I tagged on to a phrase used by a presenter which I thought summed up the challenge of trading internationally. The term was “reachable markets”. The economic orthodoxy used to be that opening up trade to encourage free and fair markets benefitted all parties. Today tariffs and technical barriers to business are on the upswing and some international markets seem less open and reachable. As reported in this issue it is difficult to understand why construction equipment should be caught up in trade spat arising from alleged subsidies to Airbus (Europe) and Boeing (USA) (see page 45). Excavators don’t fly.

Two articles in this issue also touch on “reachability” in a different context. Our new power generation feature looks at a variety of generator applications. Power from diesel, electric and hydrogen all offer great solutions which make environmental sense. Together they offer a good way forward if specifiers reach out

to find the best solution for their project. The “Future Factory” contribution commissioned from the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) sketches a new manufacturing world where the human and robot interface can meet in the middle in the form of Cobots (see page 6).

Despite some efforts, the CEA remains an organisation which may be characterised as “male, pale and stale”. I am pleased to confirm that most of this issue was again written and produced by women and contains features on both Kate Wickham, a senior executive (see page 24) and Ellie Potter, a new entrant with prospects (see page 47).

And the man who caught my attention with the “reachable markets” phrase was Chris Sleight of Off-Highway Research – his report on the South African market is on page 40. ■

Index of Advertisers Amber Valley...........................................33 Bill Bowden Event Logistics Ltd..........30 BKT Europe SRL.......................................08 Brigade.....................................................16 Bunkabin.................................................30 Construction Equipment Association..............................................50 Containex MBH......................................33 Conexpo ..................................................39 Datatag....................................................55 Digbits Ltd...............................................37 Engcon.....................................................37

Enigma Creative Ltd..............................48 Garden & Hire Spares Ltd.....................34 GKD Technologies Ltd...........................22 GOMACO International Limited.........30 Hydrokit UK Ltd......................................30 HYTORC....................................................20 InspHire....................................................19 JCB Insurance Ltd..................................48 Kawasaki Precision Machinery (UK) Ltd...............................20 Kocurek Excavators Ltd........................16 Kubota......................................................11

Magni Telescopic Handlers UK...........26 Marubeni Komatsu Ltd........................56 Mecalac Construction Equipment.....04 Miller UK...................................................22 MTS Suction Systems UK......................44 Nylacast...................................................13 Off Highway Research..........................50 Perkins Engines......................................02 RDS Topcon.............................................50 Red Rhino................................................44 SPAL Automotive UK Ltd......................22 Taylor's Trailers Limited........................20

WINTER 2019 5

The Future Factory ConstructionWorX

The Future Factory – Rise of the Cobots!

Yesterday’s science fiction imaginings are becoming tomorrow’s augmented worker’s reality. With “Future Think” set to be a CEA theme in 2020, Chris Brown, Business Development Manager (Construction and Infrastructure) from the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) takes Construction Worx readers on a voyage into future factories and what’s in store for manufacturing…

6 WINTER 2019

ConstructionWorX  The Future Factory

During my 20 years of industrial experience working across research and development I have encountered many views of how future industry might look. We are told humans will no longer be a front-line manufacturing resource in factories and that they should be performing higher value roles maintaining autonomous or automated systems, using lasers, robotics and Additive Manufacture (AM). We have witnessed heavy investment along this line into aerospace and automotive sectors, although more recently we have seen similar investment in industries with a less mature manufacturing footprint, such as Construction.

Whilst we do not have a crystal ball, we can already see trends of opportunities through knowledge transfer and research streams that showcase areas for development over the next five to ten, or even 15 years. The digital revolution has brought significant change to manufacturing processes, while we also find that automation has been championed by the automotive sector. At the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), we are constantly looking at the next technology, new developments, early adoption and implementation and constantly scan for the next potential applications helping manufacturers achieve the future, today. Some of the work conducted by the MTC, to map a way forward for the Construction sector, can be found by searching MTC i3P (http://www. the-mtc.org/our-projects/i3p-programme).

As the population continues to increase, the construction industry is being driven by necessity to increase productivity, upskill the industry and meet environmental targets. All whilst offering a better product whether that be buildings or infrastructure. As a society we are demanding more, better, faster and cheaper, so construction has to be prepared to meet these demands.

competitive in the new era of construction, there must be a continual, rapid evolution of products and processes to take advantage of new manufacturing technologies and materials as soon as they become available.

Through digitisation of technologies, design and development will be accelerated and virtualised reducing risk and uncertainty.

It is believed that with increased investment

"At the MTC, we are constantly looking at the next technology, new developments, early adoption and implementation and constantly scan for the next potential applications."

Whitehall departments like Education or Health spend around ÂŁ15 billion each year on buildings such as new schools, hospitals, and much more. Helping them to embed more productive, sustainable and better performing solutions that will benefit our industry and improve the impact we have on society at large is at the core of initiatives such as the Government backed Transforming Construction Challenge.

Today, the construction industry is dominated by those organisations who demonstrate the best economies of scale and contracts will be won by those who can deliver faster than their competition.

For UK construction companies to remain

into Research & Development (R&D) and the wider application of modern methods of construction, there will be less human input.

We must acknowledge that skills required today will be completely different to those required in the future, but this presents more of an opportunity than a challenge, especially given the current skills deficit. Generational skills will no longer be handed down as a valid method for upskilling the workforce and new training models will be required to educate and establish continual professional development in modern manufacturing technology.

As industrial technology becomes widespread, the wave of automation and

Robotics and autonomous systems will become a connected part of the manufacturing ecosystems

WINTER 2019 7

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ConstructionWorX  The Future Factory

Currently humans and robots work sequentially although more investment is being made into collaborative robots (Cobots) that will work with people

digitisation has been labelled Industry 4.0 or the fourth industrial revolution. This is well underway in many industries and productivity improvements are being demonstrated due to the digital approaches taken, though it will need to mature over the next 20-years and use more intelligent technologies as a digital backbone to extract more data, gain more insight and to predict future scenarios.

It also provides guidance to the operation, maintenance and end of life of assets. This will impact on the construction sector and our task is to predict how and determine the work that we need to do to understand and develop applications.

A research project at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) has delivered a world first by using metrology to deliver ultraaccurate robotic automation

be some way off. This is due to the barriers of integration, connectivity, optimised data management and overcoming proprietary standards and protocols. Essentially there is a need to develop a generic plug and play structure that can be configured for each individual user application with data from any source and the required simulation/modelling software platforms.

In the short to medium term we will see more emphasis around connectivity and interoperability, where everything inside and outside the factory is linked, from shop-floor machines right through the supply chain to networks of factories. Telematics, the Internet

"We must acknowledge that skills required today will be completely different to those required in the future, but this presents more of an opportunity than a challenge, especially given the current skills deficit."

Consider how a data focused approach has revolutionised the drive towards performance improvements of elite athletes through the collection and analysis of competitor and performance data. Likewise, the data from our factories can lead to potential enhancements throughout the value chain and can improve product design, production and maintenance scheduling, quality and in-service life.

Harvesting data is then necessary to develop a digital architecture that enables that data to be stored and then used by a wide variety of simulation platforms. With the rise of industrial digitalisation combined with a technology vendor market which has a surplus of options (offering software and hardware products for every challenge), achieving a true Industry 4.0 state is still considered to

of Things (IoT), and autonomous vehicles will bring greater efficiency and granularity for manufacturers delivering their products to supply Just-in-time (JIT) systems.

Robotics and autonomous systems will become a connected part of the manufacturing ecosystems. This autonomy will change people’s jobs, but they will not be eradicated, it will be more focused around integration of people with technology. At present mobile robots are limited to standard industrial robots mounted to linear tracks or on top of large Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV). AGV flexibility is currently largely restricted by the fact they have to carry all of the controls and equipment required for the functions they are to perform. In future factories it will be the norm to see a fully

integrated mobile robot, untethered by service supply lines through the use of battery power or inductive charging stations and capable of moving to any work station in the facility and operating the tools that are present replicating how the human worker operates today.

Currently humans and robots work sequentially although more investment is being made into collaborative robots (Cobots) that will work with people. This will be the cornerstone of future factories where humans work with robots without compromising safety or productivity. MIT completed a study where they found that human machine groups are more efficient than either humans or robots in isolation, they also found that these integrated systems reduced human idle time by 85%.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or Drones, are pilotless aircraft whose basic function is to gather information on an environment and relay it back to the controller. Used in an industrial application, drones can be connected to other IoT devices. They could then monitor inside or outside a manufacturing facility which generally cannot be inspected by human workers, either due to their hazardous settings or inaccessibility due to size or environment.

Commercialised use of UAVs is considered as the next developmental focus in the ongoing Industry 4.0 revolution. With more data than people can handle and increasingly complex processes, it will be about trusting systems to highlight issues and delegate decisions. As technology becomes more accessible, manufacturing can increase its offering whether the factory has one robot or fleets of robots it must have flexibility and responsiveness at its core.

So far, we have talked about factories as static warehouses with machines inside, we then have to move/ transport the end product at huge cost to site. Some of the research development MTC have been doing

WINTER 2019 9

The Future Factory ConstructionWorX

MTC have been conducting research with partners around digital twinning and Factory In A Box (FIAB)

with partners is around digital twinning and Factory In A Box (FIAB). Essentially a mobile factory unit designed to be deployed anywhere around the world while being controlled remotely via the digital twin to automatically re-configure its production schedule to suit the specific demands at that site. This is currently early stage research at the MTC, and we are actively working on this for industrial commercialisation.

Further into the future we will see more adoption of advanced visualisation technology which will create the augmented worker. The application of media devices from handhelds

this in connected and autonomous plant machinery that would collaboratively prepare a site for construction or in the operation of multiple drones working collectively without human assistance. Similarly, we will see this network approach of manufacturing systems working together to assemble components and products. In a system that is self-aware, a centralised scheduling system would coordinate assembly tasks from co-existing assets such as human operatives, AGV’s, drones, robots, cobots, etc.

We have already started the journey to digitalisation and there will need to be

"Currently humans and robots work sequentially although more investment is being made into collaborative robots (Cobots) that will work with people." like smart phones, to wearable technology like the Microsoft HoloLens, presents an opportunity to use that same technology in a manufacturing environment to deliver information to the manual workforce.

Wearable technology will also augment human capabilities on the factory floor.

The automotive industry has highlighted the future application of swarm intelligence concepts in autonomous vehicles whereby junctions would be partially removed from the infrastructure and there would be no collisions. There are further examples of

10 WINTER 2019

significant investment in digital architecture to drive this forward and to protect it.

Eventually, factories will become self-aware, hyper-connected and self-optimising. With all this technology there will also be a need for additional security considerations, not only in physical assets but also in cybersecurity.

Adding connected IoT objects and Industrial Control System (ICS) sensors will expose new vulnerabilities. Sensors and metrology devices will be embedded in manufacturing processes and products to continually monitor condition and status for in service support

and connected supply networks. Computer vision systems will find imperfections driving zero defect production of batch sizes from 1 – 1000. Mechatronic assistance will be also be employed to ensure that any generically skilled manual worker is capable of ‘right first time’ completion of any given assembly task.

So, what is the future of manufacturing in construction? The main focus for the industry in the short to medium term should be the use of proven robotics and automation for the manufacture and assembly of construction components. To achieve the future state of factories we need to embrace a process of continuous learning. The MTC is currently conducting research into the longer-term technologies such as cobots, automated AGVs, AR/VR but these could be a long time from commercial application.

We know that this will not be a state that changes overnight but through incremental steps with the ambition to drive better products through better manufacturing. It will be testament to the direction of the future factory and place the UK in a good position for market leading opportunities and global export. We can’t say categorically what the future will be, but we can all look forward to witnessing a time of the most prolific change that the sector has seen. ■ Chris Brown can be contacted at chris. brown@the-mtc.org Visit www.the-mtc. org for further information.

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Movers & Shakers ConstructionWorX

Marc Ford joins elobau as Technical Sales Manager for mobile and off-highway vehicle applications elobau UK has announced a new position in the company’s team - Marc Ford has joined the company as Technical Sales Manager for mobile and off-highway vehicle applications.

Marc has already been with elobau UK for six years in his role as Sales Manager for Industry applications and brings over 20-years of experience and knowledge working with industrial applications. As a TÜV Sűd certified Functional Safety Engineer Marc also brings an in-depth awareness of safety applications, which is an area of increasing importance in the off-highway vehicle industry today.

Matt Owen, Managing Director of elobau UK said “Focusing Marc’s efforts on supporting our off-highway customers will deliver benefits for our customers and for elobau. Functional safety is of increasing importance to our customers and understanding the options to fulfil the legislative requirements can be challenging for them. By using Marc’s experience and knowledge of machine safety, the associated standards and norms I’m confident we will be best placed to support our customers.” ■

Morris Site Machinery makes key appointment Morris Site Machinery has appointed Keith Godfrey to the new role of Key Accounts Manager to strengthen links with customers throughout the UK. Focusing on large, multiple national hire companies and other key customers, he will promote its range of equipment from lighting towers to generators, welders, pumps and pressure washers to show how it can benefit their businesses.

Keith said, “I’m excited about the challenge and pleased to join a long-established family company with a deserved reputation for quality products and customer service.

I’m looking forward to getting to know existing customers, developing new ones and building on contacts I have made in the industry.”

Before joining Morris Site Machinery Keith held a similar role with professional cleaning equipment company Karcher UK Ltd, running accounts in the hire and industry sectors. ■

12 WINTER 2019

Niklas Nillroth named new President of CECE Niklas Nillroth, VP Sustainability and Public Affairs at Volvo Construction Equipment has been elected as the new President of the Committee for European Construction Equipment (CECE).

The two-year term, effective 1st January 2020, sees him succeed Enrico Prandini (md of Komatsu Italia Manufacturing). Nillroth joined Volvo in 1998 and has held a variety of roles from purchasing through to change and project management.

He is also a member of the World Green Building Council’s Corporate Advisory Board and the Swedish Green Building Council’s Board for Sustainable Infrastructure. ■

Alexandre Marchetta steps up to 1st VP role for CECE Effective 1st January 2020, Alexandre Marchetta, CEO of Groupe Mecalac, takes the role of 1st Vice-President of the Committee for European Construction Equipment (CECE). Mecalac produce a range of earthmoving and compaction machines from five factories, two in France and others in Germany, the UK and Turkey. Alexandre follows in the footsteps of his father, Henri Marchetta, who was is a former President of CECE. Mecalac are represented on the CEA Management Council by Gregg Horne, md Terex Construction. ■

"Recognised by Government, Valued by our Members" The CEA represents over 140 companies in the construction equipment industry...

CEA MEMBERSHIP LIST A & Y Equipment Ltd www.aandygroup.com Adams Cundell Engineers Ltd (ACE Plant) www.aceplant.co.uk Advanté Ltd www.advante.co.uk Airboss Ltd www.airbosstyre.com Air-Seal Products Ltd www.air-sealproducts.com Amber Valley Developments LLP www.amber-valley.com AMI Group Ltd www.amigroup.co.uk Armcon Ltd www.armcon-online.com Ashtree Vision & Safety Ltd www.avsuk.co ATG Ltd www.atg-global.com ATP Industries Group Ltd www.atp-group.com AVID Technology Ltd www.avidtp.com BAV Crushers Ltd www.bavcrushers.co.uk Beckers Industrial Coatings Ltd www.beckers-group.com Becool Radiators / Gallay Ltd www.gallay.co.uk Bergstrom Europe Ltd www.bergstromeurope.com BKT Europe SRL www.bkt-tires.com Blackwood Engineering www.blackwoodengineering.co.uk BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions leasingsolutions.bnpparibas.co.uk Bobcat Company www.bobcat.com Bomag (GB) Ltd www.bomag.com Brendon Powerwashers www.powerwashers.co.uk Brigade Electronics Group Plc brigade-electronics.com British Steel britishsteel.co.uk BSP International Foundations Ltd www.bsp-if.com Cab Glazing Services LLP www.cabglazing.com Cabcare Products Ltd www.cabcare.com Caldervale Group Ltd www.caldervalegroup.com CanTrack Global Ltd www.cantrack.com Caterpillar (UK) Ltd www.cat.com Charles & Dean Ltd www.charlesanddean.com CLM Construction Supplies Ltd www.clm-supplies.com CNH UK Ltd www.cnhindustrial.com Configit Ltd configit.com Con Mech Engineers Ltd www.conmecheng.com Cubic3 Design and Engineering Ltd www.nurock.co.uk

Cummins Engine Co Ltd www.cummins.com Darchem Engineering Ltd www.darchem.co.uk Dawson Construction Plant Ltd www.dcpuk.com Deutz AG – UK & Ireland www.deutzuk.co.uk Digbits Ltd www.digbits.co.uk Doosan International UK Ltd www.doosanequipment.eu Echo Barrier Ltd www.echobarrier.com elobau UK Ltd www.elobau.com Eminox Ltd www.eminox.com Engcon Ltd www.engcon.com Enigma Telematics www.enigmatelematics.com Fablink UK Ltd www.fablink.co.uk Fozmula Ltd www.fozmula.com Friction Marketing Co Ltd www.frictionmarketing.co.uk FuelActive Ltd www.fuelactive.com Fuelwood Ltd www.fuelwood.co.uk G&M Radiator Manufacturing Co Ltd www.gm-radiator.com Garden & Hire Spares Ltd www.ghsuk.co Gate7 Ltd www.gate7.co.uk Geith International Ltd www.geith.com Giant Crushing Ltd www.giantcrusher.com GKD Technik Ltd www.gkdtechnik.com Gomaco International Ltd www.gomaco.com Gordon Equipments Ltd (Durite) www.durite.co.uk Hanix Europe Ltd www.hanixeurope.com Hewitt Robins International Ltd www.hewittrobins.com Hill Engineering Ltd www.hillattach.com Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV www.hcme.com Holmbury Ltd Holmbury.com Husco International Ltd www.huscointl.com Hydreco Hydraulics Ltd www.hydreco.com Hydrema (UK) Ltd www.hydrema.co.uk Hydrema Denmark A/S www.hydrema.com HYTORC Industrial Bolting Systems hytorc.com Hyundai Construction Equipment Europe UK www.hyundai.eu James Fisher Prolec www.prolec.co.uk

JCB Sales Ltd www.jcb.co.uk John Deere, Worldwide Construction and Forestry Division www.deere.com KAB Seating Ltd www.kabseating.com Kawasaki Precision Machinery (UK) Ltd www.kpm-eu.com Kay-Dee Engineering Plastics Ltd www.kaylan.co.uk KHL Group www.khl.com Knibb, Gormezano and Partners www.kgpauto.com Kocurek Excavators Ltd www.kocurek.com Komatsu UK Ltd www.komatsu.com Kubota UK Ltd www.kubota.co.uk Leica Geosystems Ltd www.leica-geosystems.co.uk Linde Hydraulics Ltd www.lindehydraulics.co.uk LiuGong Machinery Europe www.liugong-europe.com Manitou UK Ltd www.uk.manitou.com McCloskey International Ltd www.mccloskeyinternational.com Mecalac Construction Equipment UK Ltd www.mecalac.com Merlo UK Ltd www.merlo.co.uk Miller UK Ltd www.millergroundbreaking.com Molson Equipment Services Ltd www.molsongroup.co.uk Morris Site Machinery Ltd www.morrismachinery.co.uk MP Filtri UK Ltd www.mpfiltri.co.uk National Fluid Power Centre Ltd www.nfpc.co.uk NC Engineering www.nc-engineering.com Nylacast Ltd www.nylacast.com/construction Off-Highway Research Ltd www.offhighway.co.uk OnGrade Ltd www.ongrade.com Parker Hannifin - ECBU (Sweden) www.parker.com PEI-Genesis www.peigenesis.com Perkins Engine Co Ltd www.perkins.com Phoenix Engineering Co Ltd www.phoenixeng.co.uk Rayco-Wylie Systems www.raycowylie.com Red Dot Europe Ltd www.reddoteurope.com Red Rhino Crushers (UK) Ltd www.redrhinocrushers.com Ricardo plc www.ricardo.com Rima UK Ltd www.rima-uk.com

For more information, visit www.thecea.org.uk

Route One Publishing Ltd www.ropl.com RSP UK Suction Excavators Ltd www.rsp-uk.co.uk Rubbernek Fittings Ltd www.rubbernek.co.uk Sandhills East www.resaleweekly.com Sandvik Construction www.construction.sandvik.com Screen Services (NE) Ltd www.screenservices.co.uk Selwood Ltd www.selwood.co.uk SKM Asset Finance Ltd www.skmassetfinance.co.uk SMT GB www.volvoce.com Southco Manufacturing Ltd www.southco.com Steelwrist UK Ltd www.agcon.co.uk Strickland MFG Ltd www.stricklanduk.com Syncron UK Ltd www.syncron.com Takeuchi MFG (UK) Ltd www.takeuchi-mfg.co.uk Tata Steel Europe Ltd www.tatasteeleurope.com Taylor Construction Plant www.tcp.eu.com Taylor’s Trailers Ltd www.taylors-trailers.com Technical Services (UK) Ltd www.technical-services.co.uk Telestack Ltd www.telestack.com TeletracNavman (UK) Ltd www.teletracnavman.com Terex Materials Processing www.terex.com/en/materialsprocessing/ Terex Trucks www.terextrucks.com Thwaites Ltd www.thwaitesdumpers.co.uk TJC Sales Ltd www.tjcplant.co.uk Topcon Technology Ltd www.topconpositioning.com Total UK Ltd – Lubricants Division www.total.co.uk Towergate Insurance www.towergateinsurance.co.uk TriMark Europe Ltd www.trimarkeu.com Veethree Technologies www.veethree.co.uk Webster Technologies Ltd www.websterequipment.com Webtec Products Ltd www.webtec.co.uk Weston Body Hardware www.westonbodyhardware.com Wheelwash Ltd www.wheelwash.com Winget Ltd www.winget.co.uk WWL ALS Ltd www.abnormal-loads.com

Correct as at time of going to print

ConstructionWorX Member News

Member News New Blademaster distributor for Con Mech Engineers Con Mech Engineers have announced that the JCC Group is now an official distributor for ‘Blademaster’ cutting edges. With operation centres in Stirling, Killin and Inverness JCC recognize that Blademaster is the ideal complement to the company’s growing range of products and services, serving the mining, construction and forestry industries in and around Scotland.

Vance McNab, Operations Director for JCC Group explains “Blademaster is at the cutting edge of GET and wear parts with a globally renowned reputation. The Blademaster brand represents high quality, hard wearing British product and JCC look forward to working with the brand in Scotland.”

Having traditionally been involved in bucket manufacture, machinery repair and forestry applications JCC saw Blademaster as the natural progression in developing its offering with the full range of GET blade products.

Over recent months JCC have invested heavily in developing its presence in the Scottish markets and bring a wealth of experience and a comprehensive range of bucket, blade and crushing technology to its customers with an appetite to work with clients to offer the ideal solutions.

Mark Thompson, Con Mech Engineers’ UK Business Development Manager said, “We are very pleased to welcome the JCC Group as a distributor for Blademaster. Con Mech Engineers have spent a lot of time developing a high-quality product and appreciate the association with the high-quality service that JCC can offer its clients.” ■

Con Mech Engineers have announced that the JCC Group is now an official distributor for ‘Blademaster’ cutting edges

Hyundai Motor Company and Cummins to Collaborate on Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology Hyundai Motor Company and Cummins Inc. (NYSE: CMI) have announced that the two global powertrain leaders have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly evaluate opportunities to develop and commercialize electric and fuel cell powertrains.

These new powertrains are expected to be developed by combining Hyundai’s fuel cell systems with Cummins’ electric powertrain, battery, and control technologies. The initial development will be focused on the North American commercial vehicle market, including working with

LtoR Thad Ewald, Vice President, Corporate Strategy, Cummins Inc and Saehoon Kim, Vice President and Head of Fuel Cell Group at Hyundai Motor Group

North American OEMs on the integration of these systems into their vehicles.

The companies will also explore ways they can work together to develop next-generation fuel cell systems and have each committed to assigning a team of individuals to investigate and pursue other areas of collaboration.

“This partnership is a terrific opportunity for both companies to leverage our respective strengths and create new opportunities to grow and broaden the product portfolio we bring to our customers,” said Thad Ewald, Vice President, Corporate Strategy, Cummins Inc. “We’ve made significant investments over the past year to accelerate our fuel cell capabilities including our acquisition of Hydrogenics and this partnership is another step forward.”

“With Hyundai’s global leadership in fuel cell systems coupled with Cummins’ unparalleled electrified powertrain technologies, we expect this partnership to leave a mark in the commercial vehicle market,” said Saehoon Kim, Vice President and Head of Fuel Cell Group at Hyundai Motor Group. “Collaborations such as this will enable us to further diversify our business, as well as reinforce our global hydrogen leadership through sales of new and existing Hyundai fuel cell systems.”

The new collaboration may extend beyond the commercial vehicle market, as the companies will also evaluate the development of fuel cell power generators. The availability of reliable back-up power generation to prevent data loss in emergency situations is a business-critical requirement for many organizations. Fuel cell back-up power generation is attractive for its reduced carbon footprint. ■

WINTER 2019 15

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ConstructionWorX Member News

Engcon goes from strength to strength with record financial year Engcon, a leading manufacturer of tiltrotators, has seen its turnover increase to the highest figure recorded, for the ninth consecutive year.

With turnover and operating profit reaching £102.7 million and £17.3 million respectively, this achievement is the latest in Engcon’s market-leading history. Exceptional sales in the Netherlands and France were major contributors to this year’s success. Engcon’s extensive commitment to continuous product development and subsequent range of safe and effective products have also been credited.

Krister Blomgren, CEO of Engcon Group, commented: “At Engcon, we strive to not only create high quality tiltrotators, but to also exceed our customers’ expectations with our customer service. Our aftersales service is unrivalled within the tiltrotator market. Our customer feedback consistently sees praise for the responsiveness, knowledge and helpfulness of our customer service agents.”

Approximately 2% of all excavators worldwide have a tiltrotator attachment, giving the market huge potential. However, Engcon predicts reforms within the construction industries of Japan and the US will create major challenges in the near future.

Krister adds: “Safer and more efficient working conditions will be required in these key markets, creating an opportunity for Engcon to present its range of world class tiltrotators as a solution.”

Engcon currently maintains a 44% share of the tiltrotator market

Engcon currently maintains a 44% share of the tiltrotator market and is well equipped to meet the increasing demands faced in the coming years. ■

Molson Group appointed Terex Trucks ADT dealer for the UK Molson Group have been appointed as a nationwide dealer for Terex Trucks for the UK in a move that expands the group’s product range to include large ADT’s for the first time.

The full range of Terex Trucks products will be available from Molson Equipment in England and Wales, with Molson Young Plant Sales looking after the brand in Scotland.

A great addition to a growing range, the addition of Terex Trucks’ ADTs, further cements Molson Group’s position as a single-source supplier to the Construction, Recycling and Aggregate industries.

“The Molson Group is committed to delivering the best products to our customers as well as fantastic service and support,” says Molson Group joint Managing Director Jonathan Wilson.

“We are excited to include Terex Trucks’ articulated haulers in our 360-degree product offering and we’re looking forward to introducing our customers to the brand.

There are lots of construction projects going on in the UK at the moment and with the recent product improvements Terex Trucks has made, under Volvo ownership, we know the TA300 and TA400 are high-quality machines that will be well suited to our customers’ needs.”

“With the Molson Group, we have a very experienced partner by our side, with a strong reputation for dedicated service support and reliable spare parts availability,” says Paul Douglas, Managing Director of Terex Trucks. “With sites across the UK, the Molson Group will bring our TA300 and The full range of Terex Trucks products will be available from Molson TA400 articulated haulers to a wider customer base.” ■ Equipment

WINTER 2019 17

Member News ConstructionWorX

CASE Construction Equipment expands LDH Plant’s territory Following a successful 12-year relationship with LDH Plant in South Wales, CASE has expanded the partnership to a new LDH Plant facility in Middlesbrough. The large recently opened site will sell the full line of CASE products, as well as the entire range of after-sales services, including maintenance plans, parts and CASE’s telematics solution: SiteWatch.

Anthony Bouvié, CASE Business Director for Northern Europe, explains the nature of this partnership: “LDH Plant is a hugely successful dealership, showing a 30% growth on CASE equipment sales in the last year alone. But it’s not just about product sales, LDH Plant embraces our philosophy of providing 360-degree solutions to our customers.”

LDH Plant plan to grow its business by £50 million in the next four years an extended partnership with CASE forms part of achieving this goal Michael Ward, CEO of LDH Plant, explains what the deal means to his business: “Our extended partnership with CASE sees us become a major provider of CASE equipment in the UK and supports our ambitious growth objectives. We were asked to expand our territory and clearly defined market for these machines in the North East of England to mirror the success that we have already seen from our other location and we’re keen to match the brand’s ambition to become a leading in South Wales. supplier of construction equipment in this area. Our investment in our “To grow this new area, we’re building on the strong local success in new facility and in the CASE brand underpins our ambitions to grow the the excavator market and extending this into all CASE lines, particularly business by £50 million in the next four years. Our new headquarters in wheel loaders, dozers, skid steer loaders and backhoe loaders. There is a Middlesbrough is just the first stage of these plans.” ■

JCB Electric Digger helps skills provider lead the way on training JCB is helping a leading London construction skills provider deliver a world-first – training on electric diggers.

The company has provided a JCB 19C-1E mini excavator – the world’s first electric mini excavator to go into full production – to the Southwark Construction Skills Centre (SCSC), based on the South London Elephant Park development. The link-up means the training school is the first to offer training on zero-emissions excavators.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan set up the ‘Mayor’s Construction Academy’

(MCA) to help more Londoners train in the skills they need to access construction sector vacancies on the capital’s housing construction sites. The SCSC has an MCA quality mark which recognises high-quality construction sector employers in London.

Charles Stevenson, General Manager of JCB`s London office, said: “JCB is leading the way in clean technology and reducing harmful emissions, especially in urban, air quality sensitive environments such as utility works. We are delighted to be able to support the SCSC in offering the world`s first training course using zeroemissions plant at a facility recognised for its excellence by the Mayor’s Construction Academy.”

John White, Operations Director of SCSC said: “We are really pleased to be supporting the JCB innovation drive to deliver zero emissions machines.

The JCB 19C-1E is an innovative product delivering environmental improvements and it will be invaluable in training local people on the technology of the future. Developers Lendlease has committed to the Elephant Park project being net carbon negative, by 2025 and the Skills Centre has an important role to promote LtoR are Tutor Dean Cox, Operations Director of SCSC John White, Trainee Project Manager sustainability across the site and to the Louie Meates , JCB General Manager Charles Stevenson, Degree Apprentice for Construction Management Alexia Mikellides and Highways Apprentice Kevin Benn local community.” ■

18 WINTER 2019

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ConstructionWorX New Members

Member Hat Trick for the CEA In this issue of Construction Worx we welcome Kawasaki Precision Machinery (KPM UK), Parker Hannifin and Taylor’s Trailers Ltd, who have joined the membership ranks at the Construction Equipment Association. Here is a brief introduction to our new members.

Kawasaki Precision Machinery (KPM UK) was established in 1994 and is the only European manufacturing site within the entire Kawasaki group.

Based in Plymouth, Devon, the factory is a highly automated manufacturing facility that produces a wide range of hydraulic pumps and motors and serves as the nerve centre for a network of support to Kawasaki customers in over 20 countries. KPM UK is the biggest manufacturing site for axial piston products in the UK. Today the Kawasaki brand is synonymous with quality and innovation in hydraulic pumps, motors, valves and complete hydraulic systems, across a whole spectrum of applications.

The company supplies quality equipment for construction, mobile, industrial, agriculture and marine applications. Each component they design and every system they manufacture is the result of nearly 100-years of engineering experience.

John Boote Senior Manager for Sales & Marketing at KPM UK commented on joining the CEA fold, he said, ”We are delighted to

become a new member of the CEA. It’s going to be a vital tool to enhance our knowledge of industry standards and global regulations, increasing the amount of support we can offer our customers. The membership will also provide us with access to industry trends and key market data, to assist us whilst making important decisions on future developments.”

New member, Parker Hannifin is a Fortune 250 global leader in motion and control technologies. For over a century the company has ’engineered’ the success of its customers in a wide range of diversified industrial and aerospace markets.

Parker ECBU has a long experience with electro-hydraulic machine control and system solutions for construction machines. The company offers a full range of robust electronic products and world-wide product support.

Parker’s IQAN® product family meets the stringent mobile standards and is optimized for precision control of hydraulics. The company’s core competences are hydraulic function performance and a real-time

KPM UK, supplies quality equipment for construction, mobile, industrial, agriculture and marine applications

WINTER 2019 21

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ConstructionWorX New Members

embedded software with a focus on machine functionality and safety.

Easy-to-use IQAN software solutions include tools for machine control and HMI, as well as what the company describe as seamless MATLAB®/ Simulink® integration, remote diagnostic (IoT) and after market tools.

IQAN products are designed by Parker‘s location in Mölnlycke, Sweden. Parker ECBU’s Market Development Manager, Mark Oliver commented, ”Our employees are industry experts with a deep understanding of off highway applications and complex electronic solutions.

Here at Parker we recognises the importance of working closely with leading industry partners like the CEA, and we are looking forward to becoming a pro-active member. We are also looking forward to working with the CEA members on the challenges and opportunites we face within a dynamic technical and commercial market place.”

Taylor’s Trailers Limited is a family run business and completes the trio of new CEA members in this issue. The company has been designing and manufacturing high quality trailers, at its West Yorkshire based business, for over 40 years and have a choice of plant trailers, under the ‘Mr Mobile’ range, catering for the construction industry.

Talking about the range, Adam Taylor, Sales & Marketing Director at Taylor’s Trailers, Said, ”We manufacture our own original products, with some of our ideas becoming industry standards.

Our products offer versatile and robust solutions for the transportation of plant equipment. With customers still using the trailers they bought in the 90’s, our products continue to prove their longevity in what is a demanding industry.”

Mr Taylor continued, ”We also design and manufacture toilet trailers for the event industry. Our prototype welfare unit offering a link between the two markets.”

Taylor’s Trailers have recently invested in manufacturing equipment to improve productivity and have developed brand new products, which are presently being tested for Full European Type Approval –

Parker Hannifin is a Fortune 250 global leader in motion and control technologies.

ECWVTA - and will extend the company’s plant trailer range to include three variants of single drum road roller trailers, three variants of mini excavator trailers, flatbed and portable (plastic) toilet trailers, tilt-bed and beavertail trailers.

Mr Taylor concluded, “After some time concentrating on other markets, we are re-launching our ‘Mr Mobile’ range of plant trailers this year. Joining CEA was an easy decision as its market information and insight into current and potential changes to regulations and legislation is of great assistance to our future goals. Construction Worx and Plantworx are the perfect platform for us to expose our products within the construction sector as we look to expand here and overseas.” ■

Taylor’s Trailers have recently invested in manufacturing equipment to improve productivity and have developed brand new products.

WINTER 2019 23

Member Profile ConstructionWorX

Gate7

The Gate7 team at the presentation of the company’s second Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

– success hinges on customer focus Multi-award winning company Gate7, based in the North East of England, specialises in the supply of decals and printed components to the Construction Equipment, Agricultural and Industrial Machinery markets.

Q: When was Gate7 founded and what was its vision?

A: Gate7 was founded in 2000. Our vision was to supply a quality product to the construction equipment market. This vision was supported by an export strategy to support growth on a global scale.

Q: Where did the company name Gate7 originate from?

A: Chairman, Keith Wickham (my father), is a lifelong white-water canoeist. In Canoe Slalom, a challenging sport held over rapids with ‘gates’ to negotiate, it is believed that everyone starts the course in great style, tackling the first half dozen gates strongly. On arriving at Gate7, that’s when the tough get going and the weaker competitors start to tire. Hence the name – the real competition starts with Gate7!!

Q: What marketing did the company employ to maximise exposure?

Kate Wickham became Managing Director of Gate7 in 2011.

24 WINTER 2019

A: One of the main ways we have marketed the company is through trade fairs supported by the CEA. This has provided networking opportunities, exposure to potential clients and the wider market.

ConstructionWorX Member Profile

Keith Wickham and Kate Wickham are presented with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade earlier this year.

Over the years we have conducted extensive market research to identify potential customers which has led to strategic marketing decisions on how we position the business to offer the best service and products to our customers. An in depth understanding of our customers is key.

Q: When did you take over the business as managing director?

A: I became managing director of Gate7 in 2011.

Q: Export is a big part of your business.

How and when did the path lead to exporting?

A: Exporting has been a big part of our business right from the very beginning. To capitalise on the market, we have always been prepared to be an export business, with a focus on Europe and North America.

Q: What percentage of your products do you export and where in the world are they exported to?

A: We export about 70% of our product to Europe, North America and India.

Q: What is the key to success for exporting? Can you give our readers any advice?

A: One of the main keys to success is good communication. It is challenging working with different languages and cultures, and it is very important to get face to face with customers and potential customers.

It is also important to have a good product which is attractive, and which will set you apart from the competition. With any good product, service levels, especially when you are exporting, must be excellent.

Gate7’s customers include Komatsu! Kate here pictured with His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester.

Q: You were awarded an MBE in 2017 for services to Export and Outward Investment. What was the process and how did you feel at receiving such a high accolade for your work with Gate7?

A: For me there was no process as I was just informed by a letter that I had been given the Award. Unfortunately, you don’t find out who nominated you, however it was a huge honour and I am very proud to have been given this incredible award in recognition for the work we do at Gate7.

Q: Do you find that being an inspirational figurehead has helped with the growth of Gate7?

A: I don’t really think of myself as an inspirational figurehead. I just do my job.

We have a great team at Gate7 and the awards we have won were really awards for the whole team.

The growth of the Company is down to everyone who plays a part and we are all very proud of what we do. I think it gave everyone great encouragement that we are obviously doing something right.

Q: The construction sector is still very much a male-dominated industry - how can we encourage more women to join our sector?

A: I think that over the years there has definitely been an increase in the number of women in the sector and I think that it has come a long way. The industry is much more automotive driven now and as such has a wider appeal.

The industry has become more specialised, with more opportunities

for women, particularly in engineering and is therefore more attractive than the traditional heavy industry of past years.

Q: Gate7 has won two Queen’s Awards for Enterprise for International Trade which is a fantastic achievement how did you secure these awards?

A: Both of the Queen’s Awards were for export and we have worked very hard in developing our export offering and our product to meet customer demands.

We always remain flexible to market requirements and are consistently innovating and developing our products, processes and people.

Q: Last year you were elected as a member of the Construction Equipment Association’s Management Council. What projects have you been involved with as part of the Council and what are your ideas moving forward?

A: The CEA management team are very focussed on providing the best service to their members and we have worked very hard to make sure that these services are relevant and effective.

As a council member, I offer support and guidance in this area to ensure that members receive the best service possible.

Q: What’s your future vision for the company (Gate7)?

A: Our vision for the Gate7 is to become global market leaders in the design, manufacture and supply of specialist vehicle branding. ■

WINTER 2019 25

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ConstructionWorX New Power Generation

Heroes don’t always wear capes Terence Smith, Head of Global Growth JCB Power Products writes for Construction Worx magazine and gives prominence to our silent hero – the generator!

In the Summer of this year the UK was struck by a National Grid power cut that affected over a million people. The media focus was on the human-interest aspect of commuters returning home stuck on trains, with newspapers suggesting it should ‘ring alarm bells’ about the resilience of British infrastructure to rare, but far from unprecedented, events. The true impact was much wider; airports were shut, traffic lights failed, and perhaps most importantly, power lost in parts of a hospital.

Loss of power to any number of facilities in

the UK’s vital infrastructure can cause risk to life, but it’s a risk faced by individuals and businesses every day.

For individuals at home, a National Grid power cut can range from candles and inconvenience to serious distress, that increases in winter. In infrastructure examples seem to be becoming more and more prevalent. The week after the major cuts following a wind farm and power station failure, BBC Wales TV and radio services were disrupted due to a power cut, a month later Motorway Services on the M4 shut. On a macro scale, for government and industry, the risk of disruption to UK power is greater than ever (from the real evidence of the National Grid power cut, to the seemingly lower risk of cyber-attack, oil price disruption, or terrorism on energy).

RISK TO BUSINESS

The Battery Box provides an alternative power storage solution that can be positioned with any generator to significantly improve generator efficiency.

In business, the risk changes from public support but is just as serious, with revenue and customer reputation damaged. For some that would be a day’s work lost; a manufacturing business with a production line stopped, staff sent home, a restaurant full of customers, a tech company without computers. For some

The JCB G20QS generator features a soundproof canopy which helps reduce noise levels. it would be lost stock; temperature-controlled milk or food produce, machinery stopping causing blockages, clogging and irreparable damage. For some it could even be crippling for customers; important data not backed up and lost in the cloud, live entertainment shows brought to a standstill, or a funeral service or wedding halted.

In all cases though, there is a “silent hero”. All operations from public sector and infrastructure, to manufacturing and agriculture have the ability to protect against the damage to service delivery and

WINTER 2019 27

New Power Generation ConstructionWorX

options, with JCB flexi-lease and 0% interest deals making generators available to support businesses from as little as £50 per week.

Mitigating the risks of power cuts gives businesses a competitive advantage over their competitors, as well as piece of mind and security for owners and managers.

THE ENVIRONMENT Generators that aren’t fixed, transportable, and able to be moved for their applications, will soon be subject to the upcoming “Stage V” emissions limits. revenue from the potentially devastating loss of electrical power. Backup diesel generator power is a proven technology that works globally. All of this is done ‘behind the scenes’, from a discrete box in a plant room or simply installed and connected at the back of a building.

WHAT CAN BE DONE? The Energy Emergencies Executive Committee (E3C) is due to publish its review of power system disruption and make recommendations for essential services, and now is the time for industry, both public and private, to protect themselves against future outages. JCB diesel generators used as backup power, provide security to all and are a cost-effective insurance policy against the very real risks. The situation is similar around the world. Growing demand for power in developing countries is outpacing grid infrastructure, and where developing economies are growing quickly, there is increased requirement for grid stability, and need for back-up power for facilities such as hospitals, IT data centres, research centres, and residential areas.

Generator telematics technology, such as JCB Livelink, has kept up with other industries, with users able to monitor electrical load, fuel consumption and monitor performance remotely via apps, giving piece of mind and security. It also allows dealerships and manufacturers the valuable data feedback required to improve the product and associated service continually, whether that’s engine performance improvement or service interval and maintenance understanding.

As you’d expect with, for example, a car purchase, service intervals and maintenance packages mean backup power is there when required, engines are more reliable than ever, and there are even a wide range of financing

28 WINTER 2019

Due to the infrequency of operation, there is no legislative emission standard for fixed standby generators in the UK, with use restricted to emergency running, which could be as little as a few hours a year. There are strict guidelines around the dispersion of emissions from chimneys and emissions abatement equipment, particularly in the City of London, which are adhered to by engine and generator manufacturers alike.

Generators that aren’t fixed, transportable, and able to be moved for their applications, will soon be subject to the upcoming “Stage V” emissions limits on particulate matter, the most stringent set of emission standards for off-road machinery in the world; The technology involved will ultimately be diffused into standby power applications. This will make backup power even cleaner in operation, and it will certainly continue to be cleaner, in its few hours of running each year during an outage, than the energy output required to recover in its absence.

THE FUTURE After the above exhaust after treatment legislative changes, the most immediate short-term trend for generator technology is to make them as efficient and environmentally effective as possible using battery technology.

A diesel generator can be used for a short time to charge an external battery box that then diffuses power over a period of time,

There is no legislative emission standard for fixed standby generators in the UK, with use restricted to emergency running.

Loss of power to any number of facilities in the UK’s vital infrastructure can cause risk to life, but it’s a risk faced by individuals and businesses every day. meaning a low engine runtime. The two technologies can be combined in a single unit commonly known as a hybrid generator, which is particularly useful for remote applications where there is no electrical grid availability but a constant low power output is required such as a telephone signal mast.

In the medium term there is scope for renewable technology to play an increasing role, where diesel generators act as the back up to renewable driven power generation, such as providing back up power externally to wind turbines and solar power or being incorporated in the same unit. In all cases though, where renewable energy is unreliable or expensive, or the technology is yet unproven, diesel generators can provide the back up and bridge the gap between the current state and the future.

The role diesel generators play in the long-term future follows two paths; a balance between the differing global views on climate change and industrialization. In developed service-based economies they will provide the assurance of power continuity as climate change pressure moves providers towards renewable sources; where natural gas or alternative technologies become prevalent, the diesel generator will allow consistency.

In the developing world, or areas of fast economic expansion and construction, diesel generators provide the simple, quick and cost-effective method of reliable power provision required. In both industrialised and industrialising though governments and leaders will continue to harness the effective power of diesel generators for protecting people, businesses and public services for many years, and the requirement for businesses to insure themselves against outage will continue to grow globally. ■ You can contact Terence at terence.smith@jcb.com.

ConstructionWorX New Power Generation

EU Stage V: Big change, big opportunity For the very first time, the electric power sector needs to adopt engine aftertreatment to meet new EU Stage V emission standards. “But we shouldn’t be daunted”, says Perkins EP Product Marketing Manager Karan Ohri.

“Perkins has the advanced engine technologies, engineering excellence and oneon-one support in place to help generator set manufacturers safely steer through Stage V.” Confirms Mr Ohri.

The next phase of EU emission standards, Stage V, comes into force in 2019 and 2020 for non-road diesel engines across the full power spectrum. The electric power sector falls within the scope of the new standards.

Stage V standards continue the path towards reducing both particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.

Conforming to them will mean significant change for the generator set market, which will need to directly upgrade from Stage IIIA technology to Stage V. Such a significant level of change is causing uncertainty and anxiety among some generator set manufacturers. But with the right knowledge, technology and support, businesses can turn the challenge of Stage V into a unique opportunity that powers longterm success.

UNDERSTANDING AFTERTREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES New Stage V standards will drive the generator set market to adopt new engine aftertreatment for most power ranges.

Aftertreatment simply means a device

for reducing engine emissions. Common examples include selective catalytic reduction (SCR), diesel particulate filters (DPF) and diesel oxidation catalysts (DOC).

Perkins has been developing these technologies for almost a decade, as industrial machines have needed to adopt them since Stage IIIB and Stage IV. This means the company has a complete range of Stage V solutions across the full electric power range from 5-560 kVA, which have already been proven across hundreds of millions of running hours.

“Our Stage V solutions set an industry benchmark for being simple, efficient and reliable,” said Mr Ohri. “Any OEM or rental business looking for a smooth and cost-effective transition to Stage V while meeting its customers’ demands for value, innovation and performance, should consider collaborating with Perkins.”

SIMPLE TO INSTALL Mr Ohri added, “Bringing your generator sets up to Stage V standards is simple when you choose Perkins. Many of our aftertreatment configurations are mounted directly on to your engine resulting in true plug-and-play solutions that are simple to install.

Our Stage V engines, including our extremely power-dense 1206 platform, come with the aftertreatment bolted on in one package. This option offers customers savings

on their engineering, compliance test, and inventory management costs.”

MAKING YOU MORE EFFICIENT “Perkins aftertreatment solutions help generator sets become more efficient. They’re compact in size, are optimised to minimise diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) consumption and come with service-free options on some engine models.

The engine technologies we’ve chosen – for example exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) – already allow the engine to run more efficiently,” said Mr Ohri. “We’ve also designed our DOC system to use less DEF – around 3-4 percent of the diesel consumed. This can decrease the running cost of a rental fleet and reduces the size of the DEF tank, which reduces the overall package size.”

Aftertreatment on many Perkins models is also service-free for the life of the product.

He added, “If you’re running a large rental fleet, this means you won’t have the cost or inconvenience of dismantling your canopies and servicing the aftertreatment. It brings a huge cost benefit to a generator set business.”

Mr Ohri concluded, “We’ve developed a thermal management strategy which ensures our aftertreatment technologies regenerate automatically even at very low loads. “This means duty cycles and workload never impact user productivity.” ■

WINTER 2019 29

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ConstructionWorX New Power Generation

Silence is Golden

– John F Hunt tackles noise pollution with ‘Ultra Quiet’ generator sets Construction Worx magazine talks to John F Hunt Power’s Managing Director, David Hunt about the company’s generator fleet and his commitment to supplier, Morris Site Machinery.

Robust and reliable generators that can weather tough conditions and meet the needs of construction sites year-round are powerful considerations when choosing equipment.

Having steadily grown its operation over recent years, through consistent fleet renewal and by launching its fifth depot in Scotland earlier this year, John F Hunt Power continues to go from strength to strength, offering its clients a wide variety of solutions to their temporary power requirements.

The business boasts one of the most modern generator fleets in the UK and, with around 200,000 new homes being built every year, it’s no surprise that more of the country’s top housebuilders are turning to John F Hunt Power for the best solutions for their projects.

In 2019 alone the company have invested over £7m on new equipment – the bulk of which has been spent on generators from its two main suppliers, BGG UK and Morris Site Machinery.

The popularity of its ‘Ultra Quiet’ machines has seen John F Hunt Power commit to a further investment of 140 Denyo generators from Morris – the order will be complete in the early part of 2020.

Mr Hunt spoke about another new contract, “We were recently contacted by one of our clients who had started a new project in Birmingham. They had been running their site for a few weeks with a standard 100 KVA Generator supplied by one of our competitors.

The site in question had over 200 staff on site every day and needed to run the generator 24/7 to provide power for drying rooms and security overnight. They had received a number of calls from nearby residents, complaining about the noise from the generator overnight. They contacted us (John F Hunt) to enquire whether we could offer a solution.”

Featuring a specifically designed sound attenuated canopy, the Denyo Eventa range operate at around 10 decibels quieter than a standard Super Silent Generator, making them the ideal choice for noise sensitive applications.

Mr Hunt added, “Since adding these generators to our fleet in 2011 we have regularly been solving issues of this nature.

With contractors being targeted more often to reduce noise on site and show more

consideration for the public, our construction clients are contacting us for our Ultra Quiet sets.

For this new client, we supplied one of our Denyo Eventa 100 KVA Generators. Running at only 59 decibels they offer significant reduction in noise levels and the set has solved their problems with local residents.

They are running the generator overnight throughout the week without causing any nuisance to the local community. Such was the success of this project, the client has come to us to supply more of our Ultra Quiet sets for its other projects.”

As well as giving significant reduction in noise levels, Denyo generators also offer exceptionally low fuel consumption. In some cases, compared to other manufacturers the user can benefit from saving over two litres of fuel per hour.

Morris Site Machinery’s UK Sales Director Richard Denholm said, “By providing an Ultra Quiet Generator on this project, John F Hunt Power was able to provide their client with the same reliability and performance as their Super Silent range, whilst also providing the solution to their noise pollution concerns.” ■

WINTER 2019 31

New Power Generation ConstructionWorX

Hydrogen gains ground as ‘climate friendly’ alternative fuel Forming part of this issue’s generator feature, Construction Worx talks to TCP’s managing director, Andrew Barker, about the technology behind zero emission hydrogen fuel cell generators, how they are being embraced by different industries and what the future holds.

According to the Hydrogen Council, who have conducted a study entitled ‘Hydrogen, Scaling up,’ deployed at scale, hydrogen is predicted to account for almost one-fifth of total final energy consumed by 2050, and reduce annual CO2 emissions by roughly 6 gigatons compared to today’s levels.

Mr Barker reported, “This is a very exciting time for us at TCP as we advance the use of hydrogen fuel cell generators, to power equipment such as temporary lighting, CCTV, environmental monitoring, portable power and welfare units.”

“Since 2014, TCP has been supplying its Eco-CH2 cabinet, which provides 200 watts of continuous power - long runtimes can be achieved by connecting up to four Genie 300-bar hydrogen cylinders, secured safely in a gas cage.

This solution is frequently used for noise detection monitors because of its quiet operation and air quality and dust monitoring by industries such as civil engineers and housing developers. The Eco-CH2 has also been used for off-grid dust monitoring during demolition phases of HS2 enabling works.

This is a great example of where clean energy

32 WINTER 2019

generators provide a better solution than diesel because of the emission particles that can interfere with dust monitoring data.”

Explained Mr Barker.

He continues, “The Eco-CH2 is also suitable for solar PV (photovoltaics) or micro-wind input and has opened up the market for this product. A recent example is of a leading broadband provider that hybridised the hydrogen fuel cell power unit with solar PV as an environmentally friendly way of running their transmitters in remote areas.

The larger Eco-GH2 also has zero carbon emissions at point of delivery; the only emission is water vapour. It is fuelled by hydrogen and uses a Fuel Cell Module to produce a DC generator capable of a 1kW maximum output. The electro chemical reaction, combining hydrogen with oxygen from the air is virtually silent, which not only appeals to construction companies wanting to reduce noise pollution but other industries such as film and events.

When hybridised with TCP’s LGP battery power pack, the hydrogen fuel cell generator can be used to power conventional AC systems such as power tools. With zero

emissions and a power output of 5kW, this is a clean air alternative to a diesel generator for off-grid applications.”

During 2018/2019, this mighty duo has been used to power a variety of applications at high profile events nationally. To name just a few, TCP provided power at Toyota’s Hydrogen Experience Week in Swindon, the Northern Gas Network exhibition during Great Green Britain Week and powered the stage at the Climate Change Solutions Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Conference. At RailWorx 2019 TCP took the opportunity to demonstrate a welfare cabin unit powered by a combination of solar PV, Eco-GH2 fuel cell and LPG 2500 power pack, which, according to TCP, created a lot of interest.

Mr Barker concluded, “TCP is proud to be leading the way with a clean air, virtually silent alternative to a diesel generator that uses a continual fuel consumption regardless of need.

As awareness of climate friendly solutions is raised, this is without doubt an exciting time for hydrogen fuel cells. The greener the energy source the better the environmental benefit for us all.” ■

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ConstructionWorX Hard Data

UK market outlook – cloudy, with a chance of rain The CEA’s Market Analyst, Paul Lyons, provides his insight into what is happening in and around the construction equipment marketplace….

Construction equipment sales on a downward trend in 2019 Retail sales of construction and earthmoving equipment in the UK market fell by 7.4% in the third quarter of the year, compared with the same quarter in 2018. This follows falls of 1.2% in Q1, and 5.4% in Q2, resulting in sales in the first nine months of the year standing at 4.8% below the levels seen during the same time period in 2018. Sales are clearly on a downward trend in 2019, with the rate of decline increasing as the year progresses. The graph below shows quarterly sales on an index basis from the construction equipment statistics exchange*, using Q1 2018 as 100.

Sales of equipment in 2019 were expected to decline after reaching a peak level in 2018, but have also felt the impact of market uncertainty created by Brexit, and more recently, further uncertainty over major

infrastructure projects such as HS2. There are further comments about this, later in the report. In the first nine months of 2019 equipment sales reached 25,700 units, and are still at relatively high levels compared with earlier years.

The fall in equipment sales in the first nine months of the year has been led by two of the most popular machine types, mini/midi excavators and crawler excavators (over 10 tonnes), which showed reductions in sales of 11% and 2%, respectively. Strongest sales amongst the high volume equipment types has been experienced by telehandlers, which are showing a 9% increase on 2018 levels. Reports suggest that underlying market demand has remained strong, and purchasing of equipment has been on a short lead time due to market uncertainty. This has helped sales in the second half of the year, with requirements coming in at short notice to meet steady underlying demand. *The UK construction equipment statistics exchange is operated by Systematics International Ltd. This scheme is run in partnership with the CEA, and allows publication of quarterly bulletins on equipment sales in the UK market.

Off-Highway Research have updated their forecast for equipment sales in the UK market in their Mid-Year review. Against a background of political uncertainty, they are forecasting a steeper decline of 11% in 2019, compared with the earlier forecast of an 8% reduction. The latest forecast reiterates that some decline in sales in 2019 has been anticipated for some time, on the basis that the market reached a cyclical peak in 2018, after showing growth in sales for around a decade.

However, with the risk of a no deal Brexit, companies have been less likely to invest in new equipment. The government announcement of a review of the HS2 high speed rail project has added to this uncertainty, and any major reduction or cancellation of the project could be a tipping point for a more significant decline in the market. The latest forecast for equipment sales in 2020 remains unchanged at -6%, but this is highly dependent on developments in the final months of 2019, as described above.

WINTER 2019 35

Hard Data ConstructionWorX

UK exports remain strong in 2019 UK exports of construction and earthmoving equipment remained strong in the first half of 2019 and reached £1,838 million. This was a 7.6% increase on levels seen in the first half of 2018, and a 2.6% increase on the second half of the year.

The USA remained the top destination for UK exports in the first half of 2019, and accounted for 29% of total exports on a £ value basis. This was an increase on 2018 levels, when the USA accounted for 26% of total exports. Exports to EU28 countries showed an 11% increase in the first half of 2019, compared with the previous six months, reaching £848 million. This means that exports to EU28 countries accounted for 46% of total exports on a £ value basis in the first half of 2019, compared with 44.5% in 2018.

2017. This points towards lower levels of activity in the coming months in the construction sector.

The UK construction Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) published by IHS Markit for September fell to 43.3, after recording 45.0 in August. The survey results in September were only marginally above the record low levels seen in June this year, which were the lowest level for the index since April 2009. An index of 50 is considered to be the “no growth” level, so the survey results are clearly pointing towards reduced levels of activity in the construction market. In recent months, many construction companies have consistently reported that the main cause of reduced activity is economic and political uncertainty. In the more recent survey, the three main sectors of house building, commercial and civil engineering all indicated declining prospects.

Looking ahead, UK construction firms were mildly optimistic in the latest survey that output volumes would pick up over the coming 12 months, although the level of business confidence was weak by historical standards. Competitive pressures, Brexit uncertainty and concerns towards the economy led to a subdued year-ahead outlook.

In line with weak optimism, further cost-cutting efforts were apparent as employment was reduced in the UK construction sector during the latest survey period. The fall in staffing levels was the sixth in as many months and the strongest since the end of 2010.

UK imports show strong growth in the first half of 2019 Imports of equipment showed further strong growth in Q2 2019, reaching £542 million, the highest quarterly level for at least six years.

This took imports in the first half of the year to £1,029 million, which represents a 12.5% increase on the first half of 2018, and a 43% increase on import levels in the second half of the year.

Japan remained the leading sources of imports in the first half of 2019, accounting for 20% of total imports, a similar level to 2018.

Imports from EU28 countries have shown significant increases in the first half of the year, reaching £688 million. EU28 countries accounted for 67% of total imports in the first six months of the year, compared with a share of 61% in 2018. Germany is the leading EU28 import source, and is second only to Japan as the leading country, accounting for 18% of total imports in the first half of the year. Sweden, Italy, Belgium and the Netherlands all showed strong growth in imports in the first half of the year.

Construction orders and output are on a downward slope Construction output in the three months to August showed a 0.1% increase on the previous three months, according to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). However, output in 2019 is still heading downwards after reaching a record high level of £13,869 million in February. August output was £123 million below this level. The latest data for new orders shows that for Q2 2019, there was a decrease of 13.3% compared with Q1, and recorded their lowest level since Q1

The Construction Products Association (CPA) published their Autumn 2019 forecast in October. For 2019, the forecast was similar to earlier forecasts, and anticipates a modest decline of 0.3% this year. However, the updated forecasts for 2020 and 2021 have been revised downwards to growth of only 0.5% and 0.9%, from 1.0% and 1.4% in the Summer forecast. This reflects the concern surrounding the delivery of major infrastructure projects (including Hinkley Point C) and the usual Brexit blues, which has impacted on investment in the commercial sector, and contributed to slowing house price growth.

Forecasts also identify some growth spots within the construction sector. This includes offshore wind projects, which have experienced significant investment activity, and warehousing. The latter is benefitting from the continued growth of online retail activity, and the warehouse sub sector is forecast to grow by 15% in 2019 and 20% in 2020. The CPA have identified that the latest forecasts for 2020 and 2021 assumes a smooth Brexit, involving a deal, with the latest extension to Article 50 (www.constructionproducts.org.uk). ■

The Power of Social Media – embrace the opportunities If you have a new post that the CEA can help circulate then tag us in your post and we can repost (if appropriate). The CEA social media channels are:

 ConEquipAssocia 36 WINTER 2019

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national buyers and DIT’s overseas network • Access to expert advice and support from dedicated advisers mation on the challenges of doing business in North America and how to overcome themrange of promotional opportunities organised by Midlan • A wide orking with buyers, press and exhibitors to establish new contacts • Free entry to the exhibition plus an invitation to select network International ConstructionWorX ss to expert advice and support from dedicated advisers at the exhibition de range of promotional opportunities organised by Midlands Engine, Innovate UK and the wider network Register your interest: entry to the exhibition plus an invitation to select networking events

Visit https://bit.ly/2KolRQs for more information or to register your in our interest: closing date for all mission applications is 29th November 2019, and confirmation from us. /bit.ly/2KolRQs for more information or to register your interest in this trade visit. Please note that the final e for all mission applications is 29th November 2019, and your place is not For guaranteed until you receive any other enquiries contact the Department for International Tra n from us. call 0345 052 4001.

International Events

her enquiries contact the Department for International Trade East Midlands at events@tradeEM.co.uk or 52 4001.

Conexpo-Con/Agg 10-14 March 2020, Las Vegas, USA CEA UK Information Stand – brochure display and meeting point for CEA members.

A lack of government funding for exhibitors at Conexpo 2020 meant it was not possible to run a UK Pavilion. However, BEIS (the Business Department), have stepped in to allow the CEA to at least fly the British flag and have a small presence at the show.

CEA members can include brochures and logos on the UK information stand and use the stand as a meeting point. It’s located in the Grand Lobby between the North and Central Halls.

Members can make complimentary use of the nearby International Business Centre offering business services, translations, meeting facilities and refreshments. UK visitors at Conexpo are invited to a CEA Networking Reception on Tuesday 10 March. Register your interest now - joanna.oliver@thecea.org.uk

Bauma China 24-27 November 2020, Shanghai, China The CEA is bidding for exhibitor grant support of £2,500 per eligible company for a UK Pavilion at Bauma China 2020. Bauma China is BIG - the world’s second largest construction equipment exhibition. The 2018 event attracted 212,500 visitors, 3,350 exhibitors from 38 countries, occupying all of exhibition space at the huge Shanghai New International Expo Centre. Interested in exhibiting with either your own UK Pavilion stand, or with a cost effective Exporter POD? Contact joanna.oliver@thecea.org.uk

38 WINTER 2019

Midlands Engine and Innovate UK – a Trade Mission to Conexpo-Con/ Agg comprising: A mission stand with a communal meeting space A Midlands Engine & Innovate UK Welcome Reception and CEA Networking event ● UK Market Visit Brochure, distributed to international buyers and DIT’s overseas network ● Networking with buyers, press and exhibitors ● Assistance from International Trade Advisers at DIT Midlands and staff at Innovate UK ● Free entry to the exhibition (worth up to $249) Details: Anya Novak, +44 (0)7769 235 307, e-mail: anya.novak@ mobile.trade.gov.uk ● ●

Intermat, 19-24 April 2021, Paris, France The CEA has run a UK Pavilion at Intermat for over 30 years.

2021 space sales are now open. To make a UK Pavilion viable, a minimum of 10 individual stand UK exhibitors are necessary. So let us know now if you are interested in taking a stand. No payments required till February 2020.

Note: Intermat will be around 5 weeks before Plantworx 2021.

Contact joanna.oliver@thecea.org.uk

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International ConstructionWorX

South Africa – problems but prospects A new study from Off-Highway Research sheds light on the South African equipment industry. It is the biggest market in Africa and undoubtedly has potential, but there are industry-specific and wider hurdles to overcome. This report from Off-Highway research MD Chris Sleight...

South Africa is by far the largest construction equipment market in Africa, accounting for roughly 25 per cent of continental demand for new equipment. Sales came to just under 5,600 machines last year, a 3 per cent increase on 2017 and some 1,000 machines more than the low point of the cycle, which was seen in 2016.

Although this makes it a fairly small market in unit terms – it is about the same size as a small European country like Sweden – it is more valuable due to the size of the mining industry and the tendency towards larger equipment.

Off-Highway Research puts the value of construction equipment sales in Sweden last year at US$713 million (and bear in mind that these are higher technology machines with Stage IV engines), whereas roughly the same number of machines in South Africa (A stage II/ III market) sold for just over US$1 billion.

A major contributor to the value of the market is the dump truck segment. In 2018 some 837 off-highway dumptrucks were sold, predominantly articulated machines. That is significantly more than any country in Europe (the UK is the region’s largest dumptruck market by some distance). Other high value parts of the South African construction equipment industry include the excavator, dozer and wheeled loader segments, again with

40 WINTER 2019

mining being a strong driver.

In terms of high volume segments, crawler excavators, wheeled loaders and articulated dump trucks are significant, but the highest volume product of all is the backhoe loader, with some 1,440 machines sold last year.

Industry drivers The background to the South African construction equipment industry is a complicated one. Undoubtedly the golden era was in the late 2010s, when the economy was at a the height of the post-apartheid glow and there was a huge building boom associated with the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Things have not been so happy since then.

The boom leading up to 2010 was followed by an inevitable bust. At the same time, most of South Africa’s major contractor groups, including the big five of Aveng Grinaker LTA, Basil Read, Group Five, Murray & Roberts and WBHO were embroiled in price-fixing scandals.

This combined with the market downturn has seen Basil Read and Group Five fall into bankruptcy, while the other three have had to retrench.

In addition to industry-specific issues, the South African economy steadily deteriorated in the 2010s under the corrupt presidency of

Jacob Zuma. This is apparent in almost any metric one might choose. GDP growth has been weak and falling, investment as a percentage of GDP has fallen, unemployment remains astronomical at 27 per cent of the workforce, the national debt has grown, the Rand has depreciated and the country is only rated above junk credit worthiness by one of the three ratings agencies.

Despite this, construction equipment sales have grown in the last two years. The fundamental reason has been domestic demand for coal for electricity generation.

Power shortages have been a persistent issue in South Africa for almost a decade, leading to ‘load shedding’, the state-owned utility company, Eskom’s euphemism for scheduled power cuts. It has attempted to address this with the construction of a number of large coalfired power stations. Although construction has over-run, these are starting to come on line and demand for coal has risen over the last two years.

Market outlook – construction Although sales of construction equipment improved in 2017 and 2018 from the low point in 2016, the industry is still at a relatively low

ConstructionWorX International

South African equipment demand (unit terms)

South African equipment demand (unit terms) Dozers Motor graders 4% 4%

Others 4% Backhoe loaders 26%

Skid-steer loaders 6%

Ride-on & hand-guided compaction equipment 10%

Wheeled loaders 13%

Crawler excavators 18% Dump trucks 15%

ebb. In addition, the disruption and uncertainty around the 2019 general election clearly caused certain segments of the industry to stall or shrink. At best for 2019, sales of equipment will be level with 2018.

The slowdown in 2019 has been most apparent in the construction industry, and equipment types which rely on this end-market are likely to see reduced demand this year compared to 2018.

After the slowdown in 2016 and the sharp decline in construction output in 2017 and 2018, a recovery in the construction sector is overdue. There is clear evidence that fleets have been aged-out over the last 2-3 years due to market uncertainty and the reluctance to invest. There is pent-up replacement demand in the market as a result.

But just because an upturn is due does not mean it will happen. Investment needs to pick up, which will be challenging against South Africa’s current political and economic

Contributed by Chris Sleight, Managing Director Off-Highway Research who generously make their reports and market information available to the CEA.

backdrop, and the industry itself needs to rebuild following a period of corporate distress for the big five contractors. However, there is a sense of cautious optimism in the industry and the hope that having won the 2019 general election, President Ramaphosa will take steps to reverse the damage done by the Zuma presidency.

Mining outlook The demand for coal to address South Africa’s chronic power shortage has been the key positive in the equipment industry over the last 2-3 years. It has driven significant volumes in the dump truck, excavator and wheeled loader segments, and the industry’s need for large equipment is also a plus for the industry.

Although the need for electricity and therefore coal is still acute in South Africa, Off- Highway Research believes the equipment buying cycle associated with this has peaked.

Volumes are at historically high levels and the scope for further growth is therefore limited.

Although demand from mining is expected to decline over the next 3-4 years, a sharp drop-off is not expected, and volumes should remain reasonable. The demand for coal will remain for the foreseeable future and the harsh environment and long annual machine hours in South Africa should help ensure a healthy replacement cycle.

These competing drivers are expected to be positive overall for the industry, with equipment sales expected to gradually climb to some 6,400 units by 2023.

In order for that to happen there needs to be renewed investment in infrastructure, which is dominated by roads in South Africa, and the vacuum at the top of the industry caused by the demise of the big five contractors needs to be addressed.

The burden of achieving this lies with president Ramaphosa, who not only needs to turn the economy around, but also needs to address the debt mountain spread across the plethora of state-owned enterprises which dominate most aspects of South African commerce. He also needs to convince a doubting world that the corruption of the Zuma era is being rooted-out and that the country is open for business. ■ Off-Highway Research’s special report, The Construction Equipment Industry in South Africa, is available from www.offhighway-store.com.

Total construction equipment sales in South Total construciton equipment sales in South Africa Africa (units) (units) 8,000 7,000 6,000 5 ,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0

2014

2015

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2018 Sal es

2019

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For more information about their services, visit www.offhighway.co.uk WINTER 2019 41

BDO / MPA ConstructionWorX

IR35 reform rules – are you ready?

New tax rules for off-payroll labour in the private sector are proposed to begin on 6 April 2020 and will have a significant impact on manufacturers using large numbers of contractors.

From April 2020, medium and large size manufacturers that engage workers operating through an intermediary are responsible for determining whether or not each worker should be treated as a deemed employee (their ‘employment status’) - this responsibility currently lies with the intermediary.

Manufacturers should put systems in place to manage this new responsibility and to ensure they comply with the rules from April 2020.

Failure to do so could lead to financial costs, project delays and risks damaging relationships with contractors and agencies. For ongoing contracts, determinations should be made in advance so that the new rules can be applied from 6 April.

When a worker falls within the new rules Businesses that contract directly with the worker’s personal service company must deduct PAYE and NIC from payments to the company.

Where an agency pays the worker, deductions will normally be its responsibility but businesses must communicate their ‘determination’ of each worker’s employment status directly to the worker and any agency involved – otherwise the business could be unnecessarily liable for tax and NIC.

Being considered an employee, rather than a worker, will mean increased tax and NIC for workers but they will not automatically be entitled to the benefits of being employees, such as holiday pay or sick pay. Many may try to increase their rates.

Status reviews Having a transparent determination process within the business will reassure workers. Businesses must review each contract - not make blanket determinations. Using HMRC’s CEST tool will help but it does not currently consider all the factors relevant to a worker’s status so cannot be solely relied upon to reach a conclusion.

How can BDO help?

We can work with you and your key stakeholders to identify what contracts may be at risk, assess the potential impacts on your business and implement changes to minimise them.

For help and advice please get in touch with: Baljit Bhamra, +44 (0)121 352 6296, baljit.bhamra@bdo.co.uk

The Digital Mind of Manufacturing Tony Cassidy of The MPA Group looks at additional funding to support the growth of new Creative minds to Manufacturing.

The manufacturing industry has evolved throughout the years and made so many advancements, but with more integration of technology being used in today’s processes, these advancements are providing further transformation. With computers and technology increasing the access to data that provides improved business intelligence, it has allowed for manufacturing to be adapted to a new era with software led machines more responsive and flexible to rapid changes in product development.

But has this come at a cost to traditional manufacturing R&D? Not at all - Manufacturing R&D comes in a variety of forms resulting in many innovations within this sector. Such innovation requires funding and Government Tax Relief Schemes can help with that; particularly the R&D Tax Relief and Patent Box Schemes. ● R&D tax credits are for projects that advance the field of science

42 WINTER 2019

and technology: you can receive up to 33% of the money you invest in innovation, regardless of whether your project succeeds or fails. Funding is not tied to producing a product. It could be developing or upgrading a system – the key is overcoming a scientific or technical uncertainty. ● Patent Box acts as a reward for achieving an advance that is patentable: all profits associated with that patent are taxed at 10% and not 19%, so you’re almost halving your tax bill.

The MPA Group are experts in both schemes and more than happy to evaluate your business to identify eligible activity. For more information contact Tony Cassidy on +44 (0)7732 604764 or email tony.cassidy@ thempagroup.co.uk.

The MPA Group is an official CEA Service Partners.

ConstructionWorX Brexit

Beyond Brexit: Preparation and Planning A workshop organised by the CEA, kindly hosted at Nylacast World Headquarters in Leicester, saw CEA members learn from Jim Fanshawe of Your Export Department Ltd the ways in which Brexit will impact their business functions. Here Jim raises some of the key steps companies can take to plan for life beyond Brexit.

Business continues throughout political upheaval with both shortterm and long-term issues to address. With a little investigation and help you can plan to respond to the consequences and maximise the opportunities. ● Understand your connections to the EU: Your commercial links to the EU may go well beyond exporting. You should consider the impact on your supply chain, commercial contracts, your employees and your future recruitment strategy. You should also think about how it might impact your relationships with parent or sister companies. ● Focus on relationships: Now is a critical time to be having even closer dialogue with your customers, partners, supply chain and employees. The stronger your relationships are currently, the better chance you have of smoothing out any contractual issues caused by Brexit further down the line. ● Understand where you fit in the supply chain: Continued currency volatility means that changes such as import costs are likely to be passed along to firms which only sell into the UK market.

In addition not all the EU’s Free Trade Agreements have been converted to “Continuity Agreements” for the UK, which may affect where you target new sales and how your product can be used by your EU customers. ● Know your company’s skill sets: Much of the impact of Brexit will result in additional administration. Do you have the resources and skills in-house to cope with new documentation and procedures?

Will this mean additional recruitment or training is required?

There is currently some government funding available for certain international trade training.

Familiarise yourselves with temporary procedures the government is introducing in a no-deal scenario: The government has outlined some temporary procedures to try and help smooth the impact of a no-deal Brexit should the situation arise. Examples are the Temporary Tariff Regime and the Transitional Simplified Procedures. Make sure you are up to speed with what these mean for your business. ● What regulatory framework do you currently work under and will this change? Stay in regular touch with your Trade Association (the CEA has a Brexit Portal of information for members at www. thecea.org.uk/brexit) and legislative agencies to keep well informed.

It is prudent to carry out a Brexit Preparation audit, to fully understand the implications on your business. Getting an external party to work with you on this will give you a valuable and objective outsider view of the company. Above all, be positive! If you are a confident British business with a great product or service and you’re prepared to put the legwork in, there are excellent global opportunities for you which will still be there post-Brexit. Don’t be afraid to ask for help to get your business Brexit-ready as soon as possible so you’re in the best position to maximise the opportunities when they arise. ■ ●

Jim Fanshawe is Director and Founder of Your Export Department Tel: +44 (0) 1394 802046 www.yourexportdepartment.com

WINTER 2019 43

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ConstructionWorX In the Lobby

Airbus/Boeing dispute drags Construction Equipment into potential Tariff War At the beginning of October, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) came to a decision on the outcome of the long running trade dispute (dating back to 2007), between the EU and the USA regarding alleged illegal payments to Airbus, which the American company Boeing suffered from. This decision ruled that the USA was entitled to take countermeasures against the EU up to a maximum value of $7.5 billion per annum, in the form of increased import duties.

Following the ruling, the US published a list of product categories that would be effected by the new duties, which came into effect on the 18th October. This list includes a wide range of products, including food and drink, but unfortunately, also includes some heavy industrial products such as construction equipment. The level of duty imposed on all products outside of the aircraft industry is 25%, whereas for products within the aircraft industry it is only 10%. This illustrates that the approach taken by the US is to retalliate against the EU, rather than to focus on the industry effected by the original dispute.

For construction equipment, the 25% duty only applies to imports from the UK and Germany, and on machines within two specific tariff codes. In summary, this mainly

effects excavators, backhoe loaders and some other types of loaders. The details of the two relevant tariff codes effected are below: ● 8429.52.10 Self-propelled backhoes, shovels, clamshells and draglines with a 360 degree revolving superstructure ● 8429.52.50 Self-propelled machinery with a 360 degree revolving superstructure, other than backhoes, shovels, clamshells and draglines The CEA has been liaising with the government departments for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and International Trade (DIT) to help understand the implications of the duties, and agree what lobbying and actions can be taken to try and help the situation. This has included conference calls with CEA members who

are impacted by the duties. The CEA has also been liaising with the European (CECE) and American (AEM) trade associations for construction equipment. Following this, a joint press statement has been issued on behalf of the industry on both sides of the Atlantic, which is aimed at trying to persuade the US government to withdraw the trade action.

At the time of writing, the EU is still negotiating with the US government to try and resolve the dispute. It is believed that holding back from imposing retaliatory tariffs on American imports is the best approach to try and defuse tensions, and possibly leave the door open to some sort of resolution to the dispute. So far, there has been no sign of any change in the position of the US government. ■

WINTER 2019 45

In the Lobby ConstructionWorX

HS2 – Back in the Political Firing Line The review of the HS2 project follows a history of dithering over the future of the UK’s transport infrastructure. CEA Chief Executive, Rob Oliver, looks at why the project must survive the latest review of its viability.

10 years ago the CEA engaged with HS2 planners to plot the The UK has a history of delaying infrastructure improvements until construction equipment requirements for the biggest ever investment their costs and benefits have been left behind by increased demand. in transport infrastructure in Britain. The first phase of the project was Heathrow’s third runway has been an aspiration for decades in a period set up to involve a 230 km stretch – comprising 46 when air travel has multiplied – but is still not certain HS2 estimates that at its peak, km of tunnels and 74 km of cuttings, with 128 million to go ahead. Staying with HS2 will send a positive it will employ 636 Articulated tonnes of material to be excavated. The list included political and economic message.

Dump Trucks (ADTs). This is the a, very precise, requirement for 636 articulated dump It is a well-established metric that every £1 of equivalent of the current entire trucks (ADTs) something over three times the regular investment in construction stimulates a growth in GDP annual UK output.

UK annual market size. Work had begun at both ends of some £2.84. This is a figure from the LEK Consulting Source: of the track (London and Birmingham) and extensive study of some years ago. In a time when economic Off-Highway Research land had been purchased, representing the first £7bn prospects are clouded, it makes sense to focus national of investment from a budget of £56 bn. investment on projects which can bring both current Then, in the autumn, there was a screeching of and future benefits. Current, in terms of providing jobs "More than 50% of the Phase brakes on the project. The new Johnson government and demand for materials and equipment; and future, 1 route will be in tunnels or announced a review of the programme with Douglas in enhancing the productivity of the economy. cuttings. HS2 stated that more Oakervee (a former chair of HS2) appointed to The debate about the future of HS2 firmly than 62 million cubic metres of produce a report before the end of the year. This underlines the failure of successive government material will be excavated. was against a backdrop of a study that suggested initiatives to deliver on commitments to provide HS2 is vital to the development that HS2 “might” overshoot its budget by £30 bn, longer term guidance and backing to a strategic of the UK economy and there the delay and overspend on Crossrail – and the approach to our physical infrastructure. At time of must be no question of it being political consideration of being seen to be friendly to writing, the National Infrastructure Commission is scrapped.” constituencies on the route of the new line but with advertising for another new chief executive – leaving TUC general secretary, no stations to receive it. At time of writing it is still a staff of 40 wondering what they should be doing.

Frances O’Grady uncertain what the future holds for HS2.

Until there is a national political consensus around Whilst the details of the route, prioritisation of work, our infrastructure programme then there is unlikely budgeting and methods of funding might be refined, to be progress. Meanwhile, here is an entirely unfair Cancelling HS2 would cost there remains a clear need to proceed with HS2. HS2 is thousands of jobs - 9,000 people comparison. In 2019 alone, China has invested in not all about speeding the transit of passengers from 4,000 miles of new rail track and by 2035 they’ll have already work on the HS2 project London to Birmingham and beyond. It will greatly over 200 new airports. Back home we dither about rising to 30,000 in 2021/22. improve rail freight capacity and aid targets to reduce finding room for one runway and a rail link between Source: pressure on the road network and improve air quality. our two largest cities. ■ Why Britain Needs HS2

Brexit – Help is at Hand As the never ending saga of Brexit rumbles on (at time of writing), companies are bombarded with offers of assistance and information from a myriad or sources. HMG send multiple e-mails a week and commercial outfits have jumped on the bandwagon with solutions – at a price. Confused? You should be.

To assist our members, the CEA have created a Brexit Portal on the CEA web site together with a bi-weekly Brexit Bulletin to highlight the most useful data sources available. Help for manufacturers is available, even some funding to help defray additional costs arising.

Visit www.thecea.org.uk/brexit and log in to the members’ only area to access the information. If you don’t know your CEA login details, visit https://www.thecea.org.uk/login to obtain your credentials. If you are not receiving the bulletin, and would like to, email gill.stirk@thecea.org.uk and ask to be added to the mailing list.

46 WINTER 2019

ConstructionWorX A Day in the Life

A day in the life…

Ellie Potter, Sales Apprentice at Nylacast Engineered Products.

Hi, my name is Ellie and I’m a sales apprentice at Nylacast Engineered Products.

I left school a year ago when I was 17, after deciding to build a career through the apprenticeship pathway. As an apprentice I spend one full day at college every two weeks as well as spending time on my college work during the working week.

My desk is located within the sales office at Nylacast World Headquarters in Leicestershire. I work Monday to Friday and normally leave home at 8am ready to start work at 8.30am. If I am not visiting an event, exhibition or customer with one of my colleagues, my typical day starts with getting a hot drink and reading and responding to any emails and enquiries which may have come in overnight. I then spend some time on LinkedIn as it is one of the tools I use for my New Business Development activities.

I normally spend the rest of the morning raising quotations which involves working with the wider team, analysing and looking at engineering drawings and speaking to a variety of customers. This

really helps to improve my communication skills and increase my engineering knowledge. I sometimes have a breakfast bar mid-morning to keep me going through to lunch time, chocolate Belvitas are my favourite!

Before lunch I often spend some time doing market research and seeking out potential customers and companies we can work with, this is part of my New Business Development work which I really enjoy. I use a number of different tools to fulfil this task which include LinkedIn, online research and speaking to the rest of the sales team. I then research the companies I have identified and use my communication skills to contact our target audience within each company, sometimes it is engineering, project managers or purchasing departments, depending on who the decision makers are.

I get an hour for lunch time and Nylacast World Headquarters is in a great location in Leicester, so sometimes I do any errands I may have, such as nipping into Tesco or Sainsburys. If I don’t have errands I sit in the canteen to have my lunch and catch up with my colleagues or speak to my mum on the phone.

After lunch, I check any emails that may have come in and send out any quotations which have come back from our estimating team. I then spend the rest of the afternoon working on a whole variety of tasks which can be speaking to customers, running reports, organising data and working on any urgent tasks to support the rest of the team. I also get the opportunity to spend time to complete my college work and assignments which form an essential part of my apprenticeship. On some occasions I also help with our new apprentice introductions and training.

Towards the end of the day I close off any open tasks I am working on and file away any confidential documents and drawings I may have on my desk. If I am last to leave the office I make sure all windows and doors are locked. As a team we sometimes get together after work and do activities such as go karting - which I am getting better at! ■

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ConstructionWorX Technical

Dale’s Diary The CEA’s Senior Technical Consultant, Dale Camsell, reports back on some current regulatory challenges and opportunities covering safety and environmental issues…

Quick Coupler Compliance Issue – Resolution One Step Closer Since its publication back in 2016, the international standard that sets out the safety requirements for quick couplers, ISO 13031, has met with some resistance among certain EU market surveillance authorities who believe that it is lacking in some safety aspects. To address these concerns, additional requirements were added to the European standard EN 474-1, adding provisions for locking and checking procedures.

However, some market surveillance authorities felt the EN 474 amendment did not go far enough and still had concerns about the adequacy of the standards. These authorities were threatening to ban the sale/use of quick couplers unless their concerns were addressed. To resolve the situation, new requirements have rapidly been developed that will be included in a future amendment to the EN 474 standards that cover excavators and BHLs. CEA members, especially attachment manufacturers, made significant contributions to the revised text. Early signs are promising; the authorities that had previously voiced their concern are now appearing to be satisfied with the proposed change.

Next moves: formal closure is hoped to be obtained during a European Commission meeting scheduled for December 2019.

Machinery Directive – to Revise or Not Revise The public consultation on the possible revision of the Machinery Directive closed at the end of summer. The CEA’s General Technical Committee (GTC) has been tracking developments and co-ordinating expert industry input – as this is the central piece of legislation that sets out safety requirements for machinery and secures the free movement of machinery in the EU market. Any revision to the directive could have significant implications for manufacturers. At time of writing the green light to proceed with a full revision has not yet been given.

The purpose of the consultation was to obtain stakeholder views on whether or not there's a need for greater legal clarity to some of its provisions and whether better coherence with other EU legislation was required. As well as questions regarding the basic safety provisions, the consultation took a broader look at challenges brought about by new technologies, such as providing operator manuals in digital format, and if/how the directive should deal with the impact of artificial

intelligence and cybersecurity. Questions regarding how the Machinery Directive interacts with other EU legislation were included; the aim being to evaluate whether there are any overlaps or gaps between the Machinery Directive and other relevant directives, e.g. those covering noise, lifting, pressure equipment, etc.

The Commission has the CEA’s response, co-ordinated with the Committee for European Construction Equipment’s views and other stakeholders.

Next moves: watch for the publication of the Commission’s conclusions on the revision in February 2020.

Connected and Autonomous Plant Project - CAP The construction industry is seeing a growth in the digitisation of construction equipment. This includes the rise of Connected and Autonomous Plant (CAP) technologies. Some of the claimed benefits of CAP are that it could improve construction site monitoring and logistics, help to manage the movement of plant, and minimise the exposure of workers to hazards. Routine and repetitive construction tasks could potentially be automated, delivering substantial benefits for productivity, construction quality, staff welfare and cost.

Yet, there is currently no industry-wide strategy to develop and deliver the medium and long-term benefits of CAP. To plug this gap, Highways England has commissioned a CAP project that will develop a roadmap for the implementation of automation in construction. It is intended that a broad range of stakeholders will work collaboratively in order to identify how connectivity and automation can be used to resolve some of the key challenges faced by the construction sector.

The scope of the project includes safety, efficiency, and the integration of people and machinery. The Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) has been commissioned by Highways England to work with stakeholders to deliver this project, with the first stages having already been completed.

WINTER 2019 49

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ConstructionWorX Technical

The CEA has been recognised as having a core role in the delivery of this project – with GTC members contributing to the initial survey.

Alongside the survey, a group of industry stakeholders has been established that will assist in the creation of a clear vision and road map for the future of CAP in the UK. A key aspect of this roadmap will be to explore the potential of extending, or integrating with, existing databases concerning the built environment. The project also aims to demonstrate current CAP technologies to the construction industry, in order to encourage future development and adoption across the sector.

Next moves: the CEA will be participating in workshops and further consultations on the CAP project over the next few months. For further information contact the CEA office.

Air Quality Campaign The British Safety Council (BSC) has launched a campaign, the objective being for air pollution to be officially recognised as an occupational health hazard. BSC has published a white paper titled “The impact of air pollution on the health of outdoor workers”, which calls for the adoption of a workplace exposure limit for diesel engine exhaust emissions.

Since the scope of the paper covers outdoor workers, it includes all construction site operatives (not just the operators of construction machinery).

Next moves: the CEA is monitoring the progress of this initiative to determine whether greater involvement may be required.

Diary footnotes The CEA’s General Technical Committee… in case you didn’t know The CEA’s General Technical Committee meets four times a year.

The current chair is Jason Ong, who is Komatsu’s General Manager, European Technical Regulations. He is also the lead for the Project Teams covering Machinery (specifically the Machinery Directive revision) and Engine Emissions for the Committee for European Construction Equipment (CECE). Alessandro Rossi is Vice-Chair of the GTC. He works out of Caterpillar’s Peterlee facility where he is an Engineering Specialist, Product Safety and Compliance. He also chairs the CECE Project Team for Road Circulation.

To give you are flavour of the GTC’s scope, in addition to the topics reported on in this issue, you can expect to see some of the following topics to appear on its agenda… ● The in service monitoring of machines

REACH and RoHs – covering usage of chemicals Digitalisation – ePrivacy, cybersecurity, AI ● Committee for Climate Change interface ● Air quality policy ● Site dumper cab protection ● The unintended movement of plant ● DEF emulators ● BSI/CEN/ISO safety and operational standards. ● HSE policy.

All members of the CEA are able to nominate a representative to sit on the GTC. Participants set the subjects for discussion – so if your company has a suggestion for a new work item then let us know.

Contact the CEA office for more information about the GTC. ● ●

David Wylie makes the earth move with new book!

Following the success of his first book - Earthmovers in Scotland – construction journalist David Wylie is self-publishing his new book: Earthmovers in UK & Germany. Over 400 stunning photographs take pride of place across 28 chapters. These images have been carefully composed to capture the raw power and performance of each machine – many of which are CEA members machines!

The book sets out to provide its owner with an in-depth look at the earthmover’s scene both in the UK and Germany and will be of interest to owners, operators, site managers and enthusiasts worldwide as an important record on earthmoving machinery for future generations.

The book is priced at £34.95 plus P&P. You can order the book via David’s Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/earthmovingbooks

WINTER 2019 51

Stop Press! ConstructionWorX

IPAF announces CEO & Managing Director

Fablink plucks Toolspec from administration CEA member company, Fablink Group, has acquired the business and assets of Toolspec Manufacturing limited out of administration, saving 73 jobs.

With approx. 60 years’ experience, newly named Fablink Toolspec has a rich history as a specialist in tubular manipulation, robotic and manual welding of complex assemblies, as well as tooling design and manufacturing capabilities. This acquisition will extend Fablink’s existing competences in a synergistic way which offers exciting opportunities for growth.

Richard Westley, CEO of Fablink Group said: “Toolspec benefits from a 60-year heritage and deep expertise in the production of specialist tubular parts and assemblies. This acquisition broadens our customer base and manufacturing capability. We look forward to working with the Fablink Toolspec team as we continue to develop and enhance our Group’s value proposition.”

Fablink Toolspec will continue to operate as usual from its Luton factory. To understand more about its capabilities please visit www.toolspec.co.uk. ■

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has appointed Peter Douglas as its new CEO and Managing Director, following a thorough recruitment process that attracted almost 50 applicants from around the world. The new CEO & MD will take up post on 1 December 2019 and will be based in the UK. Norty Turner, IPAF’s President commented: “The past few years have seen IPAF go from strength to strength, innovating to update its training courses into new languages and eLearning, developing virtual reality applications and creating exciting new events.”

He adds: “With Peter being based in the UK, this will consolidate IPAF’s global headquarters and enable full-service support of the organisation’s core market and membership, which in recent years has delivered more PAL Cards than ever before.”

Peter said: “It is a privilege to have been selected for this exciting role and I cannot wait to get started. The work of everyone involved with IPAF is so valuable; promoting the safe and effective use of powered access worldwide. ■

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CEA

Tell us Your News Construction Worx is the voice of the UK construction equipment industry. The magazine reaches over 24,000 readers and 28,000 social media contacts; ranging from CEA members, equipment manufacturers hire companies, contractors, end users, government, Plantworx exhibitors and visitors.

It is a great, and free, opportunity for CEA members to let readers know what you are up to, whether it’s new products, people or business wins. Just remember to keep it newsworthy, short (maximum 300 words) and relevant. Don’t forget to include a high resolution photo (make sure it’s copyright free) to illustrate the story.

Send your copy and images to the CEA’s Press Officer, Louise Carney: louise@louise-carney.co.uk

52 WINTER 2019

ConstructionWorX CECE

CECE Celebrates 60th anniversary with Brussels Summit – “From bricks to bytes” In the same week that Brussels negotiators were putting the finishing touches to a new “Brexit deal”, the biennial CECE Summit was held just across town. It hosted nearly 200 attendees of business-leaders, EU decisionmakers, partner organisations and journalists to discuss the most relevant challenges of economic, environmental and social sustainability in today’s digital construction industry.

Enrico Prandini, CECE President, linked the application of digitalisation with a positive environmental effect. In his Summit address he said, “We all have to create the conditions for us and for future generations, so we can live in a Europe whose environment is protected. To ensure the economic growth and social stability, a sustainable approach towards construction is needed. We can only achieve this by actively digitising and optimising work processes in our industry. It is therefore our urgent request to the European Commission and its institutions to accompany this transformation in a smart way, by allowing innovation and refrain from too much regulation that could hinder the digital transformation”.

Emmanuelle Maire, a Head of Unit at DG Environment, made it clear that the new Green Deal for Europe had construction very much in mind. It is claimed that the sector takes 40% of the EU’s energy consumption, is responsible for 36% of CO2 emissions and consumes 50% of raw materials. CO2 issues are recognised by CECE as part of the ongoing debate about environmental impacts. JCB’s Group Director (Engines) Alan Tolley chairs CECE’s High-Level Group of expert advisors on CO2. The European Rental Association (ERA) have added to the debate with the publication of a report, The Carbon Footprint of Construction Equipment. In this they claim that renting equipment reduces carbon emissions.

A major initiative from CECE is the DigiPLACE project which is backed by EU funding. DigiPLACE sets out to provide a road map for a digital platform for the construction industry. The project was the subject of a formal launch conference in Bologna, in November. A CECE Digitalisation Task Force (DTF) has also been formed to shadow the work of DigiPLACE and provide expert guidance. The kick off meeting for the new group attracted some 30 attendees. A representative from CEA

members, Leica Geosystems Ltd, was appointed to chair the Task Force.

In the Technical Forum at the Summit, there was discussion on the upcoming revision of the Machinery Directive. Key stakeholders were involved in the debate, including the European Commission, the European Trade Union Institute (ETUI) representing construction machinery users and the UK’s Market Surveillance authority representing Member States’ views. CECE took the opportunity to reaffirm its belief that the Machinery Directive is fit for purpose and does not require radical revision. The CECE Project Team dealing with the Machinery Directive is chaired by Jason Ong, of Komatsu, who also chairs the General Technical Committee (GTC) of the CEA. Preceding the Summit, there was a dinner debate organised by the European Forum for Manufacturing (EFM) within the European Parliament building. The theme was sustainability in the construction and agricultural sectors. The EFM helps bring together European parliamentarians, Commission representatives and business leaders.

Cultivating links with MEPs is an important objective for CECE, particularly as around 60% of the current membership are new, from the 2019 intake. The EFM was founded by CEA honorary patron, Malcolm Harbour CBE, who was a long time voice for industry within the European Parliament.

The Steering Group of CECE confirmed the 2020 budget for the organisation – which is funded by member trade associations in 13 different countries. CEA Chief Executive, Rob Oliver, was part of the discussions and reported, “I was pleased that CECE have agreed the principle of freezing the subscriptions of the main contributing members for a three-year period. This allows us to plan ahead and continue to be an active member of CECE in the post-Brexit world”. ■

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CESAR ConstructionWorX

CEA Consultant, Clive Harris, CEA Chief Executive, Rob Oliver and Datatag Managing Director, Kevin Howells, who deliver the CESAR Scheme on behalf of the CEA

CEA Announce New Recruit to the CESAR Network Team The Construction Equipment Association (CEA) has announced the appointment of Clive Harris as a consultant to help deliver the new specialist police unit to combat construction and agricultural equipment crime. He was formerly the Agricultural Vehicle Specialist for leading insurers NFU Mutual and an insurer representative on the CESAR Review Committee which supervised the work of the successful official plant marking and registration scheme, CESAR. CEA Chief Executive, Rob Oliver welcomed the appointment; “We have worked with Clive for some years over which time he has been the source of excellent advice and support on plant theft and insurer issues.

The opportunity for him to join “Team CEA” was too good to miss. He will help manage the relationship between the insurance sector, the police and other stakeholders in relation to the CESAR programme. This comes at an important time in the run-up to the creation of a new police resource to build on the work of the old PANIU organisation which suspended operations earlier this year.”

Stephen Howarth, AEA Economist also commented on Clive’s new role; “Clive has an unparalleled knowledge and experience of the issues around security and theft of machinery and of the partnership between

54 WINTER 2019

the industry and the police to minimise the risks. I can’t think of a better person to take on this role, which should ensure that the new police unit will make an effective contribution to reducing the impact of rural crime.”

Clive Harris “I am delighted at being given the opportunity to continue working with the CEA, AEA and all CESAR stakeholders to make a positive contribution.

We live in a world of constant change and the suspension of PANIU was disappointing. However, I am confident that the current work going on behind the scenes will create a very strong successor to challenge Plant, Construction and Agricultural vehicle theft, taking it to the next level through stronger alliances”. ■

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