Specialist equipment rental group Vp plc formalises its environmental ethos. To help mark Earth Day on April 22nd, global specialist equipment rental group Vp plc has officially launched its Short Term Roadmap to Net Zero by 2050. The roadmap was actually initiated in 2021 and has already marked a number
After a two-year break from exhibitions due to COVID-19, SMT GB is excited to showcase a wide range of the latest Volvo machines and service solutions at Hillhead 2022. On the SMT GB stand, visitors will have the opportunity to see a host of new Volvo excavators, displayed for the
World-leading compaction equipment manufacturer, BOMAG, has appointed a new managing director in the UK to lead the company through its next phase of growth, as it launches new products built specifically for the British market. Market stalwart, Alan Batty, who had led BOMAG GB for 18 years, has retired and Stuart Truckel, a
Developing eco-friendly equipment alternatives for the construction and plant hire sectors has paid off in spades for innovative Sales & Rehire company MHM Group, as it achieved a record number of enquiries at the Executive Hire Show. MHM Eco, part of the MHM Group, made its first-ever appearance at the
With the arrival of the new DX380DM-7 model, Doosan has completed the company’s range of new High Reach Demolition Excavators. The DX380DM-7 has joined the existing DX235DM-5 and DX530DM-5 demolition models launched in the last two years. These are complemented by the company’s new range of Material Handler models and
Berkshire-based plant hire firm, Shorts Group, has further expanded its growing rental fleet with five new Yanmar ViO17 zero tail-swing mini excavators. This complements four Yanmar machines purchased last year. The state-of-the-art models, which were delivered earlier this month, are already operational on sites across Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey and the
Astley Hire is proud to be one of the first industrial equipment hire companies to achieve carbon-neutral status for December 2020 – November 2021 under PAS 2026 framework. In 2021 Astley Hire embarked on a 12-month long project to address how they could further minimise the environmental impact of the
1. As the attachment revolution continues apace, what are some of the new innovations that have come to market in recent years in the excavator attachment space? In recent years, Mini-Excavators (MEX) have developed into real Tool Carriers. This is thanks to the application of new technology and improved machine stability
Collett increase wind energy carrying capacity with the acquisition of Plant Speed’s wind turbine fleet. Halifax based Collett & Sons Ltd and Bristol’s Plant Speed have agreed a deal which will see their specialist wind turbine equipment join the Collett fleet. Taking the decision to remove themselves from the wind
Construction technology is a large investment that businesses are usually willing to make to improve operations. However, the construction industry rarely invests in a warranty or service plan to protect new equipment. Here Lisa Cheshire, Inside Sales Specialist at SITECH® UK & Ireland, A Trimble Authorised Dealer, discusses how construction
Specialist equipment rental group Vp plc formalises its environmental ethos. To help mark Earth Day on April 22nd, global specialist equipment rental group Vp plc has officially launched its Short Term Roadmap to Net Zero by 2050. The roadmap was actually initiated in 2021 and has already marked a number of milestones, including reviewing and modifying data capture procedures for greenhouse gas emissions, waste and water, committing and developing Science-based Targets for all scopes, and implementing actions from a water audit. Vp plc has also already collated group-wide environmental initiatives and promoted its sustainability report to stakeholders, switched to 100% REGO*-backed renewable electricity that has reduced Scope 2 emissions by 70%, and is conducting a comprehensive Scope 3 inventory. Between 2022 and 2023, Vp plc has pledged to optimise its fleet management by introducing PHEVs (plug-in hybrid electric vehicles) and EVs (electric vehicles) into the fleet where it is appropriate to do so. A behavioural change programme will see green driver training (most divisions have already achieved FORS Gold), travel reduced, the introduction of environmental and waste champions, and environmental toolbox talks. Last year, diversion from landfill stood at 94%, compared to 93% in 2020 and 80% in 2019. ISO 50001 will be achieved by September (2022) at all the group’s UK sites and divisions, although three of the group’s divisions – Brandon Hire Station, MEP Hire and ESS – have already achieved this accreditation. Diesel alternatives will be sourced by exploring the EV market for larger EV fleet options and HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) fuel is available to customers at all branches. To build on its work in 2021, Vp in 2022 is looking to partner with a range of wildlife and rivers trusts around the country with exemplary nature conservation and restoration projects – some reintroducing white tailed eagles, lake sturgeon and bison, others tackling sand dune restoration and community rewilding. They are also pursuing an exciting close partnership with the Wildlife Trusts – the national umbrella organisation. “At home”, it is looking at biodiversity offsets such as the planting of trees and shrubs, installing bird boxes and feeders, and replacing lawns with wildflower meadows. Then between 2023 and 2025, it will support trials and encourage the adoption of hydrogen combustion engines and actively engage its supply chain in their own Net Zero agenda. The group’s sustainability programme manager Fred Pilkington, who has a MSc in Conservation Science, said: “Our roadmap strikes a balance between ambition and realism but what makes it distinguished is we have commitment from the very top of the organisation. Added to that has been the encouragement and motivation we have received from colleagues and suppliers who are putting some real time and effort behind it. We are now grabbing the bull by the horns and shouting about it.” To view a video about Vp plc’s Short Term Roadmap to Net Zero, please go to video link is https://youtu.be/4S-benpf-jo.
After a two-year break from exhibitions due to COVID-19, SMT GB is excited to showcase a wide range of the latest Volvo machines and service solutions at Hillhead 2022. On the SMT GB stand, visitors will have the opportunity to see a host of new Volvo excavators, displayed for the first time in Great Britain. These include the EWR130E wheeled excavator, the EW200E material handler, EC530E excavator and EC300E Hybrid excavator. The multipurpose Volvo EWR130E wheeled excavator sets a new standard for powerful machine performance in an unbeatably compact package. Ideally suited for working in tight urban spaces, its wheeled drive means it can quickly move through infrastructure projects with ease. Designed especially for waste and recycling, the all-new Volvo EW200E material handler is built on the success of the larger EW240E MH and delivers outstanding results in waste and recycling applications. The Volvo EC530E crawler excavator, launched along with the EC550E in 2020, will also be shown on the SMT GB stand. Designed for heavy-duty digging, mass excavation and large site preparation, both the EC350E and EC550E boast superb operator comfort and a new generation of electro-hydraulics. Another star of the show will be the new Volvo EC300E Hybrid crawler excavator. This machine delivers the same levels of controllability and performance as an equivalent conventional machine, but with an up to 17% potential fuel efficiency improvement, making it the environmentally respectful choice for powerful performance in built-up areas. Due to be shown for the first time at Hillhead in 2020, the Volvo EC950F crawler excavator will be working in the demonstration area directly behind the SMT GB stand. The 95 tonne EC950F is the largest Volvo excavator to date and delivers maximum productivity in heavy rock or muck shifting applications thanks to its perfect combination of power, stability and breakout force. New Volvo electric compact range A specially designed “electric village” will also be featured on the SMT GB stand, which will offer Hillhead visitors their first opportunity to see the newly expanded range of fully electric compact machines from Volvo Construction Equipment. This includes the new Volvo EC18 Electric and ECR18 Electric compact excavators and the Volvo L20 Electric compact wheeled loader. The Volvo ECR25 Electric compact excavator, which was displayed for the first time at Bauma in 2019, will also be shown on the SMT GB stand. Visitors will be able see the new electric machines working in mock real-world applications during daily demo shows on the stand at 10:00, 12:00 and 14:00. Efficiency and productivity boosting solutions In addition, SMT GB will be showcasing its latest service solutions in the categories of “Efficient Sites”, “Intelligent Data” and “Flexible Maintenance and Repair”. Not only do these solutions boast the latest technologies to help boost site, project and machine efficiency and productivity, but also reduce downtime, waste and total cost of ownership for customers. The “Efficient Sites” solutions being showcased are Volvo Co-Pilot, Volvo EcoOperator training, state-of-the-art simulators and SMT Site Simulation. Having a reliable and efficient fleet of machines plays an important part in every project, but it is the performance of the operator and the efficiency boosting technology available to them that really makes the difference. This is where Volvo Co-Pilot and EcoOperator training delivered by SMT GB makes a real difference. Volvo Co-Pilot with Haul Assist provides articulated hauler operators with real-time information via a touchscreen display in the cab to improve their productivity, efficiency and safety. Using a state-of-the-art cab mounted touchscreen, Volvo Co-Pilot provides the operator with all the information they need to complete projects in less time and with more precision. Through the specially designed advanced training course provided by SMT GB, Volvo EcoOperator training teaches operators how to get the most out of their Volvo machines, while also reducing fuel consumption, emissions and wear. This is made possible thanks to the cutting-edge SMT GB machine simulators, providing operators with the ability to get hands-on with a highly accurate digital version of their machines, along with real-world feedback in a safe classroom environment to hone their skills and identify areas for improvement. The newly developed SMT GB Site Simulation solution, meanwhile, uses advanced drone technology to generate highly accurate 3D models of any site it is deployed on. This provides customers with the ability to accurately determine the current condition of a site, suggest optimal machine pairings and identify what changes will improve on-site productivity and efficiency. Actionable data at customers’ fingertips The solutions being showcased for the “Intelligent Data” area include CareTrack, ProCare, Insight Reports and MySMT. CareTrack provides customers with the ability to monitor and analyse a broad range of data on a fleet-wide basis, while SMT ProCare goes one step further to offer real-time performance data on individual machines within a fleet. Insight Reports combine the information from both CareTrack and ProCare to generate reports on fleet performance that are easy to understand and analyse. MySMT provides customers with a web browser-based portal to provide easy access to all of SMT’s intelligent data solutions, order parts and book servicing or repairs from anywhere. Maintenance made easy Lastly, the “Flexible Maintenance and Repair” solutions area will showcase the benefits of SMT GB Customer Support Agreements, as well as Volvo certified rebuilds, used parts and equipment, and the online parts portal. Recently overhauled to introduce two new levels of cover, SMT GB Customer Support Agreements provide a set of service packages to provide comprehensive machine cover and suit all customer budgets, offering customers considerable peace of mind to protect the investment made in their machinery. Thanks to the quality of refurbishment available from SMT GB’s Volvo certified rebuild programme, purchasing from new is no longer necessarily the best option available to customers. Similarly, SMT GB’s expert used equipment and parts teams provide a highly credible and cost-effective alternative to purchasing new parts and equipment. The SMT GB online parts portal provides customers with the ability to search for and order parts from anywhere 24/7 and receive free standard shipping for
World-leading compaction equipment manufacturer, BOMAG, has appointed a new managing director in the UK to lead the company through its next phase of growth, as it launches new products built specifically for the British market. Market stalwart, Alan Batty, who had led BOMAG GB for 18 years, has retired and Stuart Truckel, a former director of Bearmach – the specialist Land Rover parts supplier – has been drafted in. Alan has been instrumental in achieving market leader status for BOMAG GB in the compaction industry, having successfully navigated the pandemic and Brexit periods, and won contracts with HS2 – taking it to £37.5m turnover and a 35-person team. Now, with almost 25 years’ experience under his belt, from working within the aggregates and waste industries at Finning UK, to being responsible for export markets and product development at Bearmach, Stuart is well-placed to navigate BOMAG through its next phase of growth, as the construction markets continue to thrive post-pandemic and post-Brexit. Simultaneously, BOMAG has introduced two new products to the British market, following an extensive research and development phase, including a 1m and 2m milling machine. Experienced headhunter Simon Robinson, co-founder of Red Diamond Executive, was appointed to source Alan’s replacement, following BOMAG’s extensive search for a recruitment partner. Commenting on the appointment, Jonathan Stringham, vice president of sales and marketing at BOMAG, said: “When Alan told us he was retiring, we commenced the recruitment process straight away, to ensure that his incredible knowledge and experience could be passed over seamlessly.” Speaking about their experience with Red Diamond, Jonathan continued: “We were lucky enough to recruit two managing directors at the same time in two different markets. We were able to compare both recruitments and partners. What particularly impressed us was the seriousness, professionalism, and support from Red Diamond. “Simon took the time to understand BOMAG’s challenges, philosophy, and corporate culture. His approach is very structured, and customer focused. He was very active in finding candidates who could best meet our expectations while being able to challenge himself if necessary. Finding a successor for Alan was not easy because he has unparalleled experience in this market. We are excited by Stuart’s complementarity, his enthusiasm, and his dynamism.” Speaking about his new role, Stuart said: “Alan has left a strong legacy, which in turn leaves a very strong business and one that will sustainably embrace the new product introductions and the exciting years ahead with HS2 and other projects. “The way Simon dealt with myself during the process was second to none and what most impressed us was his understanding of the expectations BOMAG had for both the role and the person. All the way through, Simon was communicative, responsive, and concise with his feedback. I’m looking forward to leading the business through its next phase of growth.” BOMAG has a turnover of £750m globally.
Developing eco-friendly equipment alternatives for the construction and plant hire sectors has paid off in spades for innovative Sales & Rehire company MHM Group, as it achieved a record number of enquiries at the Executive Hire Show. MHM Eco, part of the MHM Group, made its first-ever appearance at the Executive Hire Show after its launch in January 2022. Its eco range offers low emission and innovative products that emit zero or reduced carbon and can be powered by renewable fuel sources. After a two-year break, the Executive Hire Show returned in early February at the Coventry Building Society Arena. A total of 2,751 visitors from the hire sector attended the event, looking to expand their fleets with new products and discover the latest innovations and launches from the diverse range of exhibitors at the show. One of the many products MHM exhibited at the show was the solar hybrid gen MGTP 20 SHG-5 – a 20 kVA combined solar, battery and diesel generator with a user-friendly, complete automatic self-charging hybrid system. In addition, MHM launched two new products in Coventry including the Ultra-Silent Event Ready range and the Pressure Washer Water Bowser which were showcased before their official launch in Spring 2022. MHM Group Managing Director Matt Llewellyn said: “The Executive Hire Show was a rewarding experience for the MHM Group. It was great to be back and interacting with people following the postponement of the show in 2021. “We were able to showcase our Eco brand and demonstrate MHM’s commitment to pushing the hire industry to become greener, as well as look to alternative methods of energy to power plant equipment across the UK. We have and will continue to increase our sustainable hire fleet and promote products that improve energy efficiency and lower emissions as part of a drive towards a cleaner, more sustainable future. Which are available to purchase or rehire from MHM Group” Matt added: “We were thrilled to sponsor the ‘Innovation Trail: ECO Live’ stage which was presented by construction industry specialist Peter Haddock. The stage explored new power options and introduced technologies that improved safety, security and productivity in the workplace. Boasting a unique design working with zero CO2 emissions, noise levels and fuel consumption, MHM’s Street-Lite model also featured at the Innovation Trail and continues to be a popular choice among clients. “We are delighted with the success of the show and the number of enquiries we had from the event. The whole MHM Group team have done themselves proud from start to finish, set up to breakdown.” Building, Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction Industry News
With the arrival of the new DX380DM-7 model, Doosan has completed the company’s range of new High Reach Demolition Excavators. The DX380DM-7 has joined the existing DX235DM-5 and DX530DM-5 demolition models launched in the last two years. These are complemented by the company’s new range of Material Handler models and together both ranges cover the majority of applications in the demolition, waste and recycling industry. The new Material Handler range now offers three models – the wheeled DX230WMH-5 and DX250WMH-5 and the tracked DX225MH-5 model. Increased Flexibility In all of Doosan’s demolition excavators, the operator is housed in a high visibility, tiltable cab, providing an excellent environment particularly suited to high reach demolition applications, with a 30 degree tilting angle. All three machines in the High Reach range provide increased flexibility with a modular boom design and hydraulic lock mechanism. This innovative design facilitates an easy change between a demolition boom and an earthmoving boom to accomplish different types of work on the same project, using the same machine. The multi-boom design also allows the earthmoving boom to be mounted in two different ways, which with the demolition boom, provides further flexibility with a total of three different configurations for the same base machine. A special stand is provided to facilitate the boom changing operation, which is based on quick-change hydraulic and mechanical coupler connections. A cylinder-based system is used to push the locking pins into place to help complete the procedure. When equipped with the demolition boom, the maximum pin height is 18, 23 and 27.5 m on the DX235DM-5, DX380DM-7 and DX530DM-5, respectively. When equipped with the digging boom in the straight configuration, the DX235DM-5, DX380DM-7 and DX530DM-5 can work to maximum heights of 9.0, 10.43 and 13.5 m, respectively. Hydraulically Adjustable Undercarriage All three models share a hydraulically adjustable undercarriage, which extends to a maximum width to provide optimum stability when working on demolition sites. The width of the undercarriage can be retracted hydraulically to a narrow width position, for transporting the machines. The adjusting mechanism is based on a permanently lubricated, internal cylinder design which minimises resistance during the movement and helps to prevent damage to the components. On all the Doosan demolition excavators, standard safety features include a FOGS cabin guard, safety valves for the boom, intermediate boom and arm cylinders and a stability warning system. A Choice of Three New Material Handlers Doosan is now offering a choice of three different material handler models. The 23 tonne DX230WMH-5 and DX250WMH-5 25 tonne wheeled machines are based on Doosan’s popular DX210W-5 wheeled excavator. The new DX225MH-5 25 tonne crawler model is based on Doosan’s successful DX225LC-5 22 tonne excavator – the crawler type undercarriage is particularly suited for work in difficult ground conditions. All three models have been designed specifically for a wide range of material sorting and handling applications such as those in the scrap metal and other solid waste and recycling industries, as well as demolition, forestry and logging. Designed to carry out the toughest tasks, the DX230WMH-5 and DX250WMH-5 are built with front and rear stabilizers, and a boom and arm specifically designed for material handling tasks. A standard feature is the hydraulic cab riser, which gives the operator better all-around visibility of the attachment and work area. When combined with the rear view camera display in the cab, the operator has excellent visibility of the job site. The maximum pin heights on the DX230WMH-5 and DX250WMH-5 are 11.7 m and 12.0 m, the maximum operating reaches are 10.1 m and 10.7 m and the maximum working depths are 4.2 m and 4.7 m, respectively. The DX225MH-5 is equipped with factory-fitted material handling features such as a 2.5 m elevating cab, a 6.5 m straight boom and a 4.5 m droop nose arm, a counterweight, grapple-ready hydraulics and additional guarding. The maximum pin height in the DX225MH-5 is 11.7 m, the maximum operating reach is 10.6 m and the maximum working depth is 5.2 m. The DX225MH-5 has two arm cylinders for extra balance and more stability and lesser movement when using attachments such as grapples. The DX230WMH-5 and DX250WMH-5 are powered by the 6-cylinder, turbocharged Doosan DL06PA water-cooled diesel engine, providing an output of 129.4 kW (173.5 HP). The new DX225MH-5 material handler is powered by the 6-cylinder, turbocharged Doosan DL06K water-cooled diesel engine, providing an output of 124 kW (166 HP). An optional generator is available as a turnkey solution without requiring additional modification. For added durability, an optional V-guard protects the machine sides and components behind the doors. Options Doosan can also provide a range of options such as gooseneck and straight arms, solid tyres and FOGS as well as different attachments to match customers’ applications and to enhance productivity, for a wide range of material sorting and handling applications. There are a number of factory installed options for the material handlers, including the following: Additional work lamps Cab guarding Frame guards Fuel filter pump Rotating beacon Solid tyres Air compressor Double pump flow Rubber track pad DoosanCONNECT Telematics DoosanCONNECT telematics is standard on all the Doosan demolition excavators and material handlers, and comes with a three-year subscription. DoosanCONNECT telematics provides location information and a full range of machine operational information to owners, dealers and Doosan. Information is provided through a simple user interface, accessible online via a web-enabled computer or smartphone. The goal of telematics is to help owners monitor their Doosan equipment and manage maintenance to reduce operating costs. For more on Doosan construction equipment, visit the website: www.eu.doosanequipment.com
Berkshire-based plant hire firm, Shorts Group, has further expanded its growing rental fleet with five new Yanmar ViO17 zero tail-swing mini excavators. This complements four Yanmar machines purchased last year. The state-of-the-art models, which were delivered earlier this month, are already operational on sites across Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey and the surrounding areas. Purchased from Farol Ltd, Yanmar Compact Equipment EMEA’s official dealer for the south-east of England, the new excavators are compact, productive and have been designed with the operator firmly in mind. Powered by an EU Stage V-compliant 3-cylinder direct injection engine from Yanmar’s acclaimed TNV series, the ViO17 delivers impressive power and control. Thanks to state-of-the-art engine technology, operators benefit from low fuel consumption, maximum efficiency and minimal emissions. Achieving a digging force of 9.6/16.1kN (short arm/bucket), traction force of 16.9kN (first speed) and two travel speeds (2.1 or 4.3km/h), the ViO17 sets the standards in compact performance. Thanks to a three-pump ViPPS hydraulic system, which works with a double variable displacement piston pump and gear pump, the innovative model delivers a maximum hydraulic flow of 48.4 l/min and 210 bars pressure. Bryony Morten-Short, Commercial Business Manager at Shorts Group, commented: “When it comes to specifying new plant equipment, power, performance and reliability are key. The perfect blend of Japanese design and European build quality, the ViO17 is stylish, sophisticated and guarantees exceptional productivity. “Since taking delivery of our five new models, we’ve been hugely impressed with their performance and versatility. Alongside class-leading power and performance, a transport weight of just 1,695kg means that the units can be easily towed – along with buckets or a light work tool – on a standard GVW trailer.” Kerr Stephenson, Construction Sales Manager at Farol Ltd, added: “We’re delighted to hear such positive feedback from Bryony and the team. Robust, reliable and a true class-leader in terms of performance, the ViO17 units are perfectly suited to the rental market. “Shorts Group is no stranger to Yanmar equipment, with twelve SV08 machines already in its fleet. We hope the new zero tail-swing models fit seamlessly into its portfolio and continue to deliver above and beyond expectations for the company’s rental customers.” For more information about Shorts Group, visit https://shorts-group.co.uk. For more information about Farol Ltd, visit https://www.farol.co.uk. To find out more about Yanmar, or the company’s extensive range of compact equipment, visit https://www.yanmar.com/gb/construction/.
Astley Hire is proud to be one of the first industrial equipment hire companies to achieve carbon-neutral status for December 2020 – November 2021 under PAS 2026 framework. In 2021 Astley Hire embarked on a 12-month long project to address how they could further minimise the environmental impact of the business. The company has held the ISO 14001 environmental standard for many years but was inspired to make the big push for carbon neutrality by the UK’s target to become carbon neutral by 2050. The industrial hire firm engaged with consultancy service Charis Ventures Ltd to assist with the project. By working together to form and implement a comprehensive carbon scheme, Astley Hire and Charis Ventures were able to reduce a potential carbon footprint of 142.08 tons down to a residual value of 48.24 tons, which has been offset via the government approved Carbon Footprint scheme. “We have always been aware of the impact of our business activities on the outside world. I am pleased to have reached this significant milestone of zero-carbon neutrality and be one of the first hire companies in the UK to have achieved this status. Our customers who prioritise their green credentials can benefit greatly from knowing they are hiring equipment from a carbon-neutral provider,” said Astley Hire’s General Manager, Martin Doran. Being carbon-neutral is the first milestone in a long term effort to reduce the business’ carbon output and the requirement for carbon offset. Astley Hire’s aim for 2022 is to reduce carbon offset by a further 10%, with similar targets for future years. Over 2022 and beyond, Astley Hire will examine business processes and seek ways to improve key areas such as their vehicle fleet efficiency, fuel for hire equipment, employee commuting, and the digitalisation of processes. The next stage of Astley Hire’s carbon-neutral journey is to get the PAS 2060 result certified by an external body, with a long term strategy to target every aspect of the business as technology advances and greener solutions become available.
1. As the attachment revolution continues apace, what are some of the new innovations that have come to market in recent years in the excavator attachment space? In recent years, Mini-Excavators (MEX) have developed into real Tool Carriers. This is thanks to the application of new technology and improved machine stability due to new designs and a better centre of gravity. At Bobcat attachments, we are always working on new solutions to meet the needs of MEX customers. For example, we have recently put more focus on developing our Depth Check and laser system to support the operator in completing trenching works and to make jobs more efficient. As a result, Bobcat is proud to announce the addition of the updated Depth Check System to our portfolio. This system is a solution that uses three sensors placed strategically on the machine to accurately achieve or sustain the desired grade depth, working from the cab. The Depth Check system is fully integrated with the Bobcat panels and display, which offers simple operation and eliminates the need for an add-on Monitor inside the Cab. This simple, durable kit is wired in, so job conditions or the lack of a wireless signal never interfere with digging accuracy, and also remove the inconvenience of lag time with no batteries to replace. The Bobcat Depth Check System is also compatible with the laser receiver, so the operator can ‘bench’ on a laser signal to create slope, or to sustain a grade in multiple locations on a jobsite, which increases flexibility. Bobcat is also offering new Flail Mower and Plate Compactor attachments for MEX. The flail mower has a number of unique features on the market such as the 12 second drum stop after the power is switched off, no need to drain lines as this is integrated in the attachments, a self-levelling system for following the ground surface as a standard feature and the best balanced motor design in order to cut the grass while travelling. The compaction plate attachment is a great tool to maximize compaction, even where workers cannot go with classic compaction plates, thanks to the great reach of the mini-excavator in all these conditions. Bobcat will continue to bring to the market more attachment solutions to make the Mini-Excavator even more of a real Tool Carrier. 2. What are some of the market needs addressed by these attachments? Compact Excavator customers want to work efficiently, with the same solutions as those on the bigger excavators and with easy to use solutions. 3. There have also been major advances in coupling technology. What are some of the developments you have seen in this space? The coupling technology is not moving as fast as machine or attachment technology but is concentrated more and more on safety features, to make the jobsite safer and to avoid any kind of potential accident. One development I see expanding in this area is in hydraulic quick solutions, to reduce spending time in connecting hoses every time you change the attachments and to avoid wasting time getting in and out of the cab. 4. Which attachments are seeing increased demand in the market at this stage and why? The commodity attachments are always the most requested like buckets and couplers or Breakers, probably because the construction and demolition industry is growing thanks to government subsidies but we also see growth in Hydraulic Clamps, flail mowers and augers due to growth in cleaning and landscaping work. 5. What are some of the innovations we are likely to see in this area in the next few years? Our Attachments team will follow the Market trends and will create solutions to meet these requirements. I’m sure the biggest innovations will come because of three fundamental things: automation, digitalization and recognition. At Bobcat we are working hard on our Long-Range plan to bring the easiest to use and more integrated solutions to the market. Our aim is to make life for the customer as easy and efficient as possible. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com
Collett increase wind energy carrying capacity with the acquisition of Plant Speed’s wind turbine fleet. Halifax based Collett & Sons Ltd and Bristol’s Plant Speed have agreed a deal which will see their specialist wind turbine equipment join the Collett fleet. Taking the decision to remove themselves from the wind energy industry and focus more on their haulage operations, Plant Speed’s entire fleet of super wing carriers, extendable trailers and lift adapters have been acquired by Collett. With multiple wind energy projects scheduled throughout 2022, Collett took the opportunity to expand their wind turbine fleet, adding Nooteboom super wing carriers, quadruple extendable blade trailers and lift adapters, alongside several specialist adapters including gyrostat tables, loading beds and tower hooks. As a well-established operator in the wind energy industry, the addition of this new equipment increases Collett’s carrying capacity and adds to their already diverse fleet, providing a definitive range of specialist equipment with which to undertake wind farm development projects. “This strategic decision for Plant Speed is one which sees our company focus shift from wind turbine delivery projects.” Adds Paul Lomas, Plant Speed, Managing Director. “Having worked closely with Collett in the past, the decision to amalgamate our fleet in to theirs was an easy one to make, and whilst we may not be operating in the wind turbine industry going forwards, this is a move which will allow Plant Speed to focus on other specialist haulage operations.” Speaking about the expansion of the Collett fleet, Managing Director, David Collett adds, “with several projects scheduled, and currently underway, this move sees Collett strengthen our market position. Having worked in the renewable energy industry for many years, the acquisition of this new trailer equipment is a decisive move for Collett, and one which significantly increases our wind turbine carrying capabilities.”
Construction technology is a large investment that businesses are usually willing to make to improve operations. However, the construction industry rarely invests in a warranty or service plan to protect new equipment. Here Lisa Cheshire, Inside Sales Specialist at SITECH® UK & Ireland, A Trimble Authorised Dealer, discusses how construction customer Galtec chose to go from no warranty, to a fully protected fleet to help reduce costs. Galtec provides civil engineering and groundworks for the housing industry throughout south-west England. Protecting their assets and maximising uptime has always been high on Galtec’s agenda but they had not yet invested in a warranty. With expert, money saving guidance from the team at SITECH, they decided to invest in a four-year Trimble Protection Plan on all 14 of their Trimble kits. In doing this Galtec have minimised the risk of unexpected, costly call outs and covered the cost of routine recalibration and replacements. Businesses typically protect their fleet in different ways, depending on the age of their technology. Newer products remain under factory warranty for set periods of time. Further protection can be taken out as warranties end, ensuring that they are always fully protected. There is flexibility to choose how long components are protected for and protection can cover selected set periods. For instance, if a construction business has a large job that is running for a year, they can take protection out on the equipment just for that period. Galtec chose to invest in protecting its technology fleet on an ongoing basis by opting for a four-year plan, meaning they will not have to renew their plan during this time. “Our fleet protection plan has given us the peace of mind that we won’t have any unexpected bills to pay if machines break down in the middle of a job for the next four years,” explained Jim Swift, GPS Manager at Galtec. “When a part needs to be taken off site and repaired, SITECH quickly turns the part round, so we have as little downtime as possible.” “Galtec immediately understood the value that the Trimble Protection Plan would give” Carl Parsons, Regional Sales Manager at SITECH UK & Ireland explained. “The cheapest technology part to replace typically costs more than an entire year’s warranty, so Galtec will quickly see a return on investment as its parts are recalibrated, serviced and replaced over time.” Compared to the costs of a construction machine, investing the small cost to fully protect a fleet from any eventuality and get access to experienced technology professionals will provide clear return on investment. To find out more about reducing downtime on your construction site, visit the website http://www.sitechukandireland.com/products or call Lisa Cheshire to start the discussion about your Trimble Protection Plan options on 07736631988.
