Field service engineer Tom March has taken the lead in the technical assessment of the Caterpillar® Global Dealer Technician Challenge and progressed to the next stage of the competition. The competition is a new global Caterpillar initiative that recognises excellence in the field of engineering and Tom’s performance to date puts him in with a chance to compete with the best-of-the-best at the competition’s final, at the CONEXPO trade event in Las Vegas. Finning UK & Ireland, the world’s largest dealer of Cat® machines, parts and aftermarket services, used their Staffordshire headquarters as the base for the first round of the competition which saw seven engineers take part in three timed technical challenges. The next stage of the first round will see Tom complete a written assessment set by Caterpillar as well as a five-minute video interview. Tom was delighted to emerge victorious from the first stage, as he says the competition was extremely close: “I was up against some excellent engineers, some with a little bit more experience than me, and none of the challenges were straightforward, so I was honoured to be considered as a front runner.”  The Caterpillar Global Dealer Technical Challenge builds on the success of the Global Operator Challenge which sees huge CONEXPO crowds flock to see the world’s best plant machinery operators. Caterpillar see this new initiative as equally important, as Christina Pritchett, Learning and Development Lead in Engineering and Technical, at Finning UK & Ireland explains: “It’s great that Caterpillar is recognising the exceptional work that engineers in the dealer network do, and also promoting what an amazing career you can have as an engineer both in field service, or the workshop.” Tom March certainly agrees on this second point, and says that taking part in this competition is the latest in a series of remarkable experiences in his career so far: “I began my career working for Finning in Canada, which involved a lot of travel, working in some incredible places. Having settled down I am now lucky enough to be working as a field engineer in the North-West where I grew up. Every day is different, and I get to meet some interesting people and solve problems for them. I’m delighted to still be in with a chance to compete in this global competition, and I’m looking forward to what comes next.” Subject to a written exam and video submission, Tom will go forward to the next round of the Global Dealer Technician Challenge: the European regional qualifier, which will be held next March at the Caterpillar Demonstration and Learning Center in Malaga. To find out more about a career in engineering here Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Takes Security to the Next Level for Bobcat Customers Bobcat has added a new Remote Engine Disable/Enable feature on the company’s Machine IQ telematics platform. The new feature allows customers in Europe to remotely enable or disable their machine’s engine through the Owner Portal or Machine IQ app.  With Remote Engine Disable/Enable, operators and owners can shut down their machine with a few clicks, deterring theft and aiding in quick machine recovery. Machine IQ, launched last year in Europe, allows connected-machine owners to monitor the health of their Bobcat machine and remotely track information that enhances maintenance, security and performance. The new Remote Engine Disable/Enable feature represents the first two-way update for the telematics system, allowing operators to both send commands to and receive data from the machine. Remote Engine Disable/Enable via Machine IQ can be activated in Bobcat skid-steer and compact track loaders, mini-excavators and compact wheel loaders connected to the system. “Enabling advanced theft deterrence provides critical peace of mind for our Machine IQ users, and Remote Engine Disable/Enable allows our European customers to protect their equipment and allow only authorised usage. This feature also demonstrates our ability to interact with machines via two-way communication using telematics. Today marks another major milestone for what Bobcat continues to do – to empower our customers to accomplish more,” said Tomas Plechaty, Machine IQ Senior Program Manager at Bobcat EMEA. Simple and User-Friendly Available with Premium Machine IQ subscriptions, this innovative solution empowers customers to remotely prevent theft and unauthorized use in just a few clicks. If unauthorized use is suspected, customers can log into their Bobcat Owner Portal or Machine IQ app to select the asset, and click ‘Remote Engine Disable/Enable’ in the sidebar. Only administrative users can access this feature, and all Remote Engine Disable/Enable activity is tracked in the asset’s history table. Upon executing the disable command, any attempt to start an engine in an off state will fail. If the machine is in operation, the engine will shift into de-rate mode. Benefits With Machine IQ, customers have 24/7 access to crucial machine information on their smartphones or computers. Equipped with this information, customers can optimize machine use and plan jobs for maximum profitability by keeping idle times to a minimum and tracking fuel consumption. Service planning is made easy with maintenance notifications, saving operators time and money by allowing them to efficiently schedule machine maintenance and manage job sites during planned downtime. Choosing the Right Package Dealers and customers can choose from two options: a Standard package with basic telematics and a Premium package with additional advanced features. According to Tomas Plechaty, the subscription options let users tailor their experiences and access the level of connectivity and insights that best suit their needs. “With a focus on simplicity for the user, we are confident that the packages will meet the needs of customers and dealers across the globe, and help them grow their businesses,” he said. Connecting to Machine IQ Machine IQ comes factory-installed with many equipment models and can easily be installed on compatible Bobcat machines in the field. Customers should contact their local dealer to check compatibility. Bobcat customers can access Machine IQ by visiting my.bobcat.com, creating an account and logging in. Alternatively, the mobile app for Machine IQ can be downloaded from Google Play/Apple Store. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Europump President, Luboš Michlík, highlights the vital role of pumps in powering the drive for a sustainable future. As the global push for improved energy efficiency and sustainability intensifies across manufacturing, commerce, transportation, housing, and public services, pumps remain the unsung heroes at the heart of these transformations. Today, Europump, the European Pump Association, shines a spotlight on the critical yet often overlooked role that pumps play in shaping a more sustainable, energy-efficient world. From powering industrial processes and climate control in buildings, to enabling clean water and sanitation systems, pumps are essential in nearly every aspect of our daily lives. In this era of climate change and environmental responsibility, their significance in achieving Europe’s sustainability goals cannot be overstated. The Backbone of Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing and Industry In the manufacturing sector, where energy efficiency is a growing imperative, pumps are quietly driving progress. They facilitate vital processes such as cooling, heating, fluid transport, and circulation, all while consuming a sizeable portion of industrial energy. Yet, innovations in pump technology are helping industries cut down energy usage, reduce operational costs, and minimize their carbon footprint. “Industrial pumps represent a key opportunity for energy savings, given that they account for up to 20% of global electricity consumption. By embracing more efficient pump systems, manufacturers can drastically reduce energy consumption, making a major contribution to global sustainability efforts.” Building Services: Supporting Sustainable Cities and Infrastructure In the built environment, pumps are integral to efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, water distribution, fire safety, and waste management. As smart cities and green buildings become the blueprint for future urban development, pumps are pivotal in enabling the technologies that make modern infrastructure energy-efficient and sustainable. “Smart, energy-efficient pump systems are not just improving performance in individual buildings but are transforming how we manage water, heating, and cooling across entire cities. They are key enablers in the transition to sustainable urban living.” Transportation and Public Services: Powering Cleaner, Greener Mobility Pumps are critical in the transportation sector, particularly in electric vehicles (EVs) and public transit systems. They support battery cooling in EVs, enable more efficient fuel use in conventional transport, and ensure safe operation in air, rail, and marine travel. In public services such as water treatment and power generation, pumps keep essential services running efficiently and sustainably. “From electric vehicles to wastewater management, pumps are at the heart of ensuring that transportation and public services meet modern efficiency and environmental standards. Their role in enabling cleaner mobility and smarter services is vital to achieving Europe’s sustainability targets.” Driving Innovation in Renewable Energy Pumps are also key players in the renewable energy revolution. Whether it is through circulating fluids in geothermal systems, powering hydraulic mechanisms in wind turbines, or managing cooling in solar power plants, pumps are crucial to the smooth operation and efficiency of renewable energy technologies. “The future of clean energy depends on the efficiency of every component, and pumps are no exception. They are essential to scaling up renewable energy solutions and achieving Europe’s net-zero carbon targets.” A Hidden Hero in Every Household Beyond industry and public services, pumps impact our daily lives in more personal ways. Every time we turn on the tap for fresh water, adjust the thermostat, or rely on modern appliances, pumps are working behind the scenes to make these conveniences possible. In residential homes, pumps ensure the efficient delivery of water, heating, and cooling—keeping households comfortable, safe, and sustainable. “From individual homes to massive industrial plants, pumps are an often unseen yet essential part of daily life. They are indispensable to modern living and key to the sustainable, energy-efficient world we are working to build.” Europump: Leading the Way Towards a Greener Future Europump and its members are at the forefront of promoting high-efficiency pump technologies and advocating for policies that support sustainability and innovation. Through collaboration with industries, regulators, and other stakeholders, Europump is committed to driving the adoption of innovative solutions that reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. Ecopump is its flagship project, embodying the organisations energy reduction commitment. In 2004 the Europump Council endorsed the Ecopump initiative as the very cornerstone of the European pump sector’s energy and environmental policy. The Europump website now carries a dashboard that provides a real time illustration of the energy savings being made. Since 2016, these endeavours have resulted in the saving of 233 million MWh of electricity and a reduction of 163 million tons of CO2 emissions. Additionally, the incorporation of the Extended Product Approach into the upcoming revision of EU Regulation 547/2012 for water pumps could unlock a further 35 TWh in energy savings. “In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, it is crucial that pumps—often the unseen workhorses—are recognised for their potential to deliver significant energy savings and environmental benefits. Together, we can ensure that pumps continue to be a driving force behind the green transition in every sector.” For more information about Europump and the work it undertakes on behalf of the European pump sector, please visit https://www.europump.net/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

DiPerk Power Solutions, the sole authorised distributor of Perkins engines in the UK and Ireland, has supplied Stage V-compliant Perkins 1204J engines to Regency Power Generators for use in the HS2 high-speed rail project. The compliance to high emission standards means the 1204J qualifies to work in the clean air requirements of London and other regulated development centres and as a result, two of these engines have already been delivered to a site on the outskirts of London, ready for commissioning. The Perkins engines will be integrated into generator sets (gensets) by Regency Power Generators and supplied to Skanska Costain, a contractor for the HS2 project. These gensets will be strategically placed at the ends of tunnels along the London to Birmingham route, serving as critical emergency power units. They will ensure continuous power supply for essential systems such as tunnel lighting in the event of any blackouts. Wayne Vincent, Head of Distribution Sales at DiPerk Power Solutions, said: “The HS2 project demands the highest standards of reliability and environmental performance, which is why we specified and delivered the Perkins 1204J engines to Regency Power Generators. These engines are known for their reliability and meet environmental requirements with their Stage V compliance, which is crucial for operation in London’s stringent emissions control areas. The engines also offer enhanced electronic control for precise emissions management, making them ideal for this critical infrastructure project.” The UK-manufactured gensets are designed to be mobile, enabling easy lifting and relocation as needed during different phases of the HS2 project. This flexibility is crucial as the project involves building extensive viaducts from Birmingham to London, with the gensets needing to be positioned at various points along this route. The engines’ emissions control also positions these units as a versatile solution for the project’s evolving power needs. Steven Bussey, Business Development Manager at Regency Power Generators, commented: “In addition to integrating the Perkins 1204J engines, we’ve enhanced the gensets with bespoke features to meet Skanska Costain’s specific requirements. This includes fitting special quick-fit connectors and designing a custom frame with a reinforced canopy. These modifications provide ease of use and added protection.” He added: “We chose to work with DiPerk because of their expertise with Perkins engines and their ability to supply the Stage V compliant models we needed. Their support throughout the application and installation process has been invaluable in helping us meet the exacting standards of this high-profile project.” For more information about DiPerk visit www.diperk.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

The founder of stone conservation and restoration pioneers Stonehealth has warned specifiers and building owners of the risk of using inferior machinery and unqualified practitioners. Brian Crowe said that since the latest iteration of the iconic Doff III machine launched earlier this year, increasing numbers of reports were coming in of impostor and incorrect machinery being used on sensitive restoration projects. Instances included chemical damage to stonework, excessive pressure blowing out sensitive lime mortar joints and stripping of surface layers of masonry. The company has even discovered a photo showing a competitor machine being used on a project in Scotland while carrying a Doff sticker in an attempt to appear authentic. Such deceitful activity could lead to legal action either from specifiers or from Stonehealth. “For the past 30 years we have created a reputation as the leaders in our field,” said Mr Crowe. “So while in a way it’s a compliment to have impostors pretending to be us, it’s not one that we welcome. “What we are often finding is that our products are specified for projects but then, to save costs, inferior machinery is used by unqualified personnel. “Our unique system enables high temperature steam – 150 degrees C at the nozzle end – to be gently applied when cleaning masonry. Any reduction in temperature must be compensated for by increased pressure, which is where damage can occur. “One of our other products, the Torc, is able to carefully use granulate and a gentle swirling vortex to clean delicate masonry. Inferior products will result in damage to the surface. “While this is a serious issue for our business – we risk suffering damage to our brand – we have a major concern about the impact of our heritage buildings. “If damage is done, it’s irreversible. If you remove the surface of stone or break then you can’t get it back. If there are any doubts over the credibility of machinery and operatives, then contact us.” Mr Crowe, who founded Gloucestershire-based Stonehealth in 1989, said education was key to ensuring that buildings continued to be properly treated. “Our intention is to make architects, surveyors and other specifiers – including conservation officers – aware of people working with something different to what’s been specified or approved. Any queries on whether the contractors and machines are genuine should be directed to us. We know where our machines are and the personnel who are trained to use them. “We place great emphasis on training the contractors who use our equipment, as well as ensuring that our machines are properly specified. “Our reputation has been earned over decades of innovation and care for our industry and we won’t tolerate abuse of it, or the risk of unsatisfactory results from impostors harming the likelihood of our products being specified again.” To help ensure that only bona fide contractors are considered and awarded contracts, Stonehealth has set up its Approved Rosette Contractors Scheme. Approved contractors must meet stringent criteria including: full training in use of Stonehealth equipment, reviewed every year; use of only genuine Stonehealth parts and materials; annual inspection and servicing of machinery by Stonehealth; provision of at least two customer testimonials per year to maintain Rosette status. Stonehealth is based in Cam near Dursley in Gloucestershire and supplies systems and products throughout the UK and many countries worldwide. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Down to Earth Developments, a Home Counties-based land reclamation company, has invested in two Cat® D6 XE dozers from Finning, and is believed to be the youngest customer to own the latest electric drive Cat machines in the UK.  Ben Maclean, 24, owner at Down to Earth Developments, bought one of the electric drive Cat D6 XE dozers earlier this year from Finning UK and Ireland, the world’s largest dealer of Cat equipment, parts and aftermarket services. So impressed was he with the performance of the machine, he subsequently ordered another citing the machine’s sustainability credentials combined with its performance as the reason for the follow-up purchase.  Ryan Trafford, Customer Service Manager at Finning UK and Ireland, explained why this deal is key for the industry as a whole: “We’re really pleased to be working with a next generation of machine owners, who really value sustainability when it comes to making decisions. Down to Earth Developments are experts in land reclamation and recovery, working with private clients and government agencies to restore land to its natural state.  “Sustainability is quite literally what they do. Customers like Ben are the first generation to have grown up understanding the importance of making responsible decisions, with sustainability being at the heart of that.” The Cat D6 XE, the world’s first high-drive electric drive dozer, offers significant sustainability benefits, delivering up to 35% better fuel efficiency compared to previous models, resulting in a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, this reduction in fuel use directly impacts operating costs, meaning a significant financial saving over the life cycle of the machine.  Ben Maclean’s decision to choose these state-of-the-art machines was also influenced by the operational efficiency they offer. He commented:   “It’s not just the electric drive using less fuel but the all-round technology package you get with Cat machines that saves costs in quite a few ways. We also have two Cat 323 hydraulic excavators and their grade assist and payload technology help us get the job done that little bit quicker.  “The D6 XEs are also fitted with Trimble™ 3D GPS systems supplied by SITECH® UK and Ireland, which means we make the absolute minimum number of passes to get perfect grading. We also ensure we tap into the telematics data that’s available through VisionLink®  telematics so we can monitor machine idle time, productivity and fuel use, as well as the general health of each of the assets, so we can ensure timely and preventative maintenance that fits with our work schedules.” As a Contracts Director of Down to Earth Developments Ben ensures that they are using these efficiencies to their advantage, and with plenty of projects in the pipeline, they could be looking to expand the fleet in the near future.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

6,000t capacity giant enables faster construction methodologies across the energy sector  Mammoet, the largest global engineered heavy lifting and transport company, has today launched the world’s strongest land-based crane, the SK6000.  As populations grow, so do our energy needs. The SK6000 re-defines the scale of human construction, allowing large energy and infrastructure projects to build from bigger pieces, in parallel – reaching first power sooner, and more cost-effectively.  The SK6000 has a key role in offshore wind, where fast growth of components in recent years has led to supply chain issues. Lifting 3,000t to a height of 220m, the SK6000 ensures that wind farms in the planning phase today can be safely executed and delivered in the future.  In the oil and gas sector, the SK6000 delivers reduced integration times to offshore floating projects, while onshore new build and expansion projects can be delivered with increased uptime. Both scopes then benefit from modular construction techniques that allow critical path components to be simultaneously built offsite anywhere in the world, before transporting to site ahead of installation.  As more new-build nuclear plants are greenlit, the SK6000 helps the sector to benefit from similar tried-and-tested construction methodologies – helping projects to reach completion sooner and deliver low carbon energy to communities.  The SK6000 has a maximum capacity of 6,000t, utilizing 4,200t of ballast to lift with a maximum ground bearing pressure of 30t/m2. The crane design uses containerization techniques for ease of deployment, and can be transported using shipping containers to any location worldwide.   It also offers full electric power capability from battery or supply from the grid, allowing customers to reduce the carbon impact of projects significantly.   “This crane is truly a world record feat of engineering, with a production schedule to match”, said Gavin Kerr, Director Global Services at Mammoet. “Hundreds of colleagues have been directly involved with its development across the business.   There are very few companies on Earth – if any – that could have brought this crane into reality, and we are immensely proud to be able to do so”.   The SK6000 is currently undergoing testing at Mammoet’s Westdorpe facility in the Netherlands, ready for deployment to its first project later in the year. [Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals