Hiab, part of Cargotec, launches the MyHiab mobile app, to improve operator productivity and safety. The digital companion provides features and content about Hiab equipment throughout its lifecycle. It also establishes a communication channel between Hiab and the end-users. MyHiab provides operators with immediate access to the tools they need
ABB has completed the retrofit conversion of a Nuh Cement-owned diesel-fueled Euclid R85B haul truck into a fully electric, zero-emission vehicle. The two companies worked together closely to design and build this retrofit project, which is the first time in the world that a vehicle of this size and class
Being part of a global network of Cat® dealerships has many advantages, not least when it comes to securing delivery of more than 80 fully Cat certified machines to Ukraine ready to help rebuild vital infrastructure and facilities in the country. Finning has a long-standing relationship with the Ministry of
Nationwide Platforms, the UK’s leading provider of powered access for working at height, has recently announced its new game-changing tracking service, HireTracker. HireTracker allows a customer to track their hire through every stage of the rental process, with a live tracking link that remains active from the moment the order
Erith Contractors Limited is investing in a fleet of new Cat® excavators as it aims to lower its carbon emissions by improving fuel efficiency. The national demolition expert has already taken delivery of six new excavators from Finning since March 2022, the world’s largest Cat dealer, with more expected to be
Commissioning machine rebuilds is already an integral part of Heidelberg Materials UK’s fleet management plan. This month the company welcomed a rebuilt Cat® 988K XE with electric drive back to its Whatley asphalt plant following a Cat Certified Powertrain Rebuild, giving it a new lease of life and many more
Employees from Finning recently spent the day volunteering at specialist rehabilitation centre, Willowdene as part of its commitment to support community initiatives. The volunteers, who chose to support the Social Enterprise in recognition of the work it does to help both men and women in getting their lives back on
AUMA Actuators Limited (AUMA UK), a world leader in electric valve actuation technology, has successfully extended its Service Level Agreement (SLA) with Anglian Water until 2028. AUMA UK and Anglian Water worked in partnership to develop and deploy a new and unique process to service, maintain and replace a range
Prolec Safety Systems Unveils: Game-changer “One Screen” Solution Redefining Safety and Productivity (2D) in Construction. Meeting Industry Demands: In response to the time-sensitive nature of the construction sector, Prolec, Europe’s largest manufacturer of plant safety equipment, is set to make waves once again. Just over a year ago, Kinshofer’s acquisition
L75 and L85 updated with features from the Top-of-the-Range… In 2021, Bobcat launched the company’s first compact wheel loader (CWL), the L85. In 2022, the company added the L75 value model and in 2023, Bobcat launched its top-of-the-range premium model, the L95. As part of Bobcat’s continuous improvement programme based
Hiab, part of Cargotec, launches the MyHiab mobile app, to improve operator productivity and safety. The digital companion provides features and content about Hiab equipment throughout its lifecycle. It also establishes a communication channel between Hiab and the end-users. MyHiab provides operators with immediate access to the tools they need to better plan their working day and troubleshoot when things are not working as expected. If they need further assistance the app enables them to call their nearest Hiab service centre. In the initial release, Hiab can contact end-users directly with essential information about the equipment and proactive service information. “Hiab operators are our biggest fans and the most influential advocates of our solutions. This app is designed to support and simplify their workday and is our way of giving something back. It also makes it possible for us to reach them directly and learn more about their challenges to create better solutions for tomorrow,” says Michael Bruninx, Senior Vice President, Services, Hiab. The app can be downloaded in local language versions from Apple’s App Store and Google Play in Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, Sweden, the UK and the US. More markets and language versions will be added during the year. The initial release contains mostly content about HIAB loader cranes, MULTILIFT demountables and MOFFETT truck mounted forklifts. However, there is also content of interest for users of other Hiab load handling equipment. While the app enhances the operators’ understanding of their equipment, it will also provide essential data, encrypted, to Hiab. This information will be used to improve Hiab’s services and product development. “MyHiab makes it possible to have daily touchpoints with our users, not limited to visits to workshops or on-road assistance. We aim to have an industry leading service experience and this is a natural evolvement of our HIPERFORM offering,” adds Michael Bruninx. HIPERFORM is a suite of smart solutions to maximise the Hiab equipment lifecycle value by optimising the performance and productivity of operators, equipment and fleets. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
ABB has completed the retrofit conversion of a Nuh Cement-owned diesel-fueled Euclid R85B haul truck into a fully electric, zero-emission vehicle. The two companies worked together closely to design and build this retrofit project, which is the first time in the world that a vehicle of this size and class type has been fully electrified. In addition to overall system engineering, ABB’s contribution to the project included a BORDLINE® CC200, traction battery, an air-cooled traction motor, vehicle control electronics, a battery thermal management system, and a DC Fast charger. The cement mine, which is located in Kocaeli-Körfez, east of the Marmara region surrounding Istanbul, Türkiye, is positioned in such a way that the trucks travel downhill, fully loaded, on an average ramp gradient of between 18-20%. Regenerative braking enables the truck to recharge its battery as it descends, and once unloaded, ascend to the top of the mine using only previously regenerated electric power. The project delivers significant benefits by revitalizing a machine that was approaching the end of its operational lifespan. This approach further supports Nuh Cement’s sustainability goals by extending the lifespan of its haul truck, which had reached the end of its 30-year operational cycle, allowing it to operate for many more years. Rather than scrap and replace the original mining vehicle, which would involve disposing of several tons of material and purchasing a new vehicle at the cost of several million dollars, the project propelled greater returns on the initial investment made by Nuh Cement some 30 years’ ago. In addition to the economic efficiencies, the retrofitting of this one truck will save approximately 100,000 litres of diesel fuel and prevent 245 tons of CO2 emissions annually, equivalent to 58 gasoline-powered passenger vehicles driven for one year.1 The use of ABB’s electric drivetrain solutions in place of a diesel combustion engine offers significantly lower operating costs via a reduction of both fuel consumption and maintenance requirements. In addition, the truck operates with higher performance, thereby increasing the vehicles productivity. On-site workers also benefit from the switch to electric propulsion through reduced noise, less vibration, and a cleaner work environment. Many of the largest mining operators have committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030. Retrofitting trucks in this way is a viable, quick solution that mining operators can take advantage of as an immediate step towards meeting their ambitious sustainability targets. Group CEO of Nuh Cement, Gökhan Bozkurt said, “This retrofitting conversion is one of the first in the world and we’re delighted with the result. It leads the way towards a more sustainable future for the mining and cement industries and will significantly reduce our costs and impact on the environment.” ABB Motion’s Traction Division President, Edgar Keller said, “The completion of this project is enormously satisfying because it gives new life to machines that otherwise would have expired, whilst simultaneously lowering costs, reducing carbon emissions and boosting the productivity of Nuh Cement’s operations. It proves that converting diesel vehicles to full electric power is possible and at immediate reach. The time to decarbonise the mining industry has well and truly arrived.”[1]https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator#results Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Being part of a global network of Cat® dealerships has many advantages, not least when it comes to securing delivery of more than 80 fully Cat certified machines to Ukraine ready to help rebuild vital infrastructure and facilities in the country. Finning has a long-standing relationship with the Ministry of Defence (MOD) in the UK, having worked with them over the past 20 years, previously providing generators as well as customised wheel loaders and excavators. In November the MOD, on behalf of the UK-administered International Fund for Ukraine, placed a contract with Finning, the world’s largest dealer of Cat machines, parts and services, for 82 fully operational machines delivered to Ukraine by the end of April. The equipment was primarily needed to support rebuilding works on important parts of the country’s infrastructure including reclamation works on sites damaged during the conflict as well as clearing buildings, reinstating infrastructure and repairing underground utilities. Given the variety of tasks, Finning worked with the MOD to select a combination of machines – including excavators, a variety of D6 dozers, and various wheel and track loaders – providing the greatest flexibility when on the ground in the Ukraine. Having agreed on the machines required, Finning then looked at availability, given the tight deadline for delivery of April 2024 for all 82 machines. Finning began looking at its stock of used equipment available in the UK and widened this out to identify suitable machines to meet the MOD’s needs from other Cat dealerships in the US, Europe and Canada. “Being part of a global dealer network, meant we were able to mobilise the required used machines from across Europe and the US to meet the MOD’s requirements,” explained Adam Smith, Head of Used Equipment at Finning. “Over half of the machines were sourced from our stock of used equipment here in the UK. However, we were able to meet the demands of the full machine requirement by sourcing equipment from Cat dealerships in the US, Norway, Spain, Germany, and France. “This really emphasises the strength of the dealer network across the world and with all dealers adhering to the same inspection standards – we were able to provide absolute reassurance for the MOD on the quality and performance of the machines. All Finning used machines undergo an end-to-end, full 140-point service inspection prior to delivery. To this end, all the machines were prepped at one of 10 Finning service workshops in Glasgow, Leeds, Winsford, Cannock, Chesterfield, Dublin, Lisburn, Ashford, and Llantrisant. The end-to-end service inspection includes a full function test and visual inspection of the machine itself. Then checks to the hydraulic system, powertrain, axels and gearbox are carried out. This includes fluid analysis checks to determine engine health and a full inspection of the undercarriage, tyres and any work tools. Finally, all the electrical systems on the machines are tested to ensure they are fully operational. Adam continues: “Carrying out such a detailed inspection means we can provide a standard Cat warranty package in line with the machine’s age, hours on the clock and general condition, and includes providing a full-service history. “This is standard practice across the sale of our used equipment and is universal across all Finning dealerships to provide customers buying used equipment with complete peace of mind and confidence that their equipment has been fully inspected and is fit for the job it needs to do.” “The next stage involved us preparing all the equipment for transit. This required us to remove any blades, guides, belly guards and rippers so they wouldn’t be damaged en-route. We then had the task of coordinating with hauliers and shipping agents to manage their journey.” Finning delivered the first 25 units by the end of December 2023, with the balance of machines due to be delivered by the end of April 2024. Maj Gen Anna-Lee Reilly, Head of Strategic Capability, Engagement and Operations at DE&S, said: “We’ve been impressed with the level of expert input and service from Finning, which had a real task with sourcing such a range of machines in a very short time. The company has applied their proven expertise and combined it with creativity to find a solution which delivers a huge benefit to Ukraine.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Nationwide Platforms, the UK’s leading provider of powered access for working at height, has recently announced its new game-changing tracking service, HireTracker. HireTracker allows a customer to track their hire through every stage of the rental process, with a live tracking link that remains active from the moment the order is placed all the way up until the machine has been collected at the end of its hire period. The customer can check in on the delivery at any time by clicking on the link, which will direct them to a screen displaying real-time updates on the progress of the hire. The new tracking system is something that Nationwide Platforms’ customers have requested via customer feedback in the past. Many clients reported that more accurate delivery timings would enable them to plan projects more efficiently, which in turn would boost productivity across the industry as a whole. Customers who already have a machine out on hire when HireTracker goes live needn’t worry about missing out. Even orders that are midway through being prepared will begin to receive HireTracker updates as soon as the system is online. With HireTracker, there is a guaranteed three-hour delivery window. As with other courier systems, once the hire is out for delivery, customers can see the driver’s location in real-time. In addition, the tracking system informs the customer when they are the next stop away, as well as when the delivery has been made and the machine is ready to be used. HireTracker works on collections too, meaning a customer can also use the same system to ensure their machine has been picked up by the courier. Daniel Smith, Chief Operating Officer at Nationwide Platforms, said: “We make every effort to take on board customer feedback, and HireTracker is a direct answer to many customer requests. “Knowing the precise arrival time of a machine enables you to plan your day more efficiently. You’re no longer left waiting around all day, nor are you forced to rearrange your schedule for a vague delivery window. Instead, through real-time updates and accurate delivery estimates, HireTracker empowers you to make informed decisions about how to best manage your time and resources. Whether your machine is being dispatched or only a few doors away, you’ll be the first to know.” For more information on Nationwide Platforms, please visit: https://www.nationwideplatforms.co.uk/en-gb Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Erith Contractors Limited is investing in a fleet of new Cat® excavators as it aims to lower its carbon emissions by improving fuel efficiency. The national demolition expert has already taken delivery of six new excavators from Finning since March 2022, the world’s largest Cat dealer, with more expected to be delivered during 2024. All the machines already on site have been optimised with the support of Finning engineers to allow fast and efficient attachment use – including pre-programming the weight of equipment – and have been fitted with guards to help protect against the tough working environment. To date three Cat 352 50 tonne excavators, one Cat 336 35 tonne excavator and two Cat 325 excavators have been delivered to Erith, with investment in a further eight machines in the pipeline for this year. The machines are backed by a service plan to minimise any downtime. Due to the nature of demolition work, Erith upgrades its fleet frequently and works closely with Finning to ensure its Cat machines are running as economically and efficiently as possible. Recently representatives from the firm were invited to the Caterpillar demolition tools manufacturing facility in Den Bosch, Holland. Shaun Bean, Plant Director at Erith, said: “We conducted our own site test where we benchmarked one of the new Cat machines against one of our other machines on the same task. Based on the fuel savings made by the Cat machine, together with the high resale value, the investment will be recouped within a relatively short space of time. “Prior to these new excavators, we were running two Cat dozers and the support we’ve had with those from the team at Finning meant I was confident in investing further with them. I haven’t been disappointed yet with the service we’ve had, and the assistance they have provided in setting up our machines has been second to none.” The new Cat machines have been fitted with bespoke guards, including belly guards, ram guards, cab guards, lighting and camera guards, as well as a removable screen guard to make cleaning easier. Ryan Trafford, Territory Account Manager at Finning UK & Ireland, said: “Erith are the third biggest demolition company in the world, so we’re delighted to be supporting them in the replacement of their demolition fleet. “Each of the excavators has been fitted with a quick coupler on the front for fast and simple tool attachment, and our team has supported Erith in measuring and weighing these tools and inputting the data into their machine controls. This makes it as simple as possible for operators to switch between tools while working, and to access all the safety features, allowing them to use the machine to its optimum. “The fleet team at Erith also have complete peace of mind when it comes to minimising machine downtime as every machine is covered with our 36-month premier warranty and CVA service package. This was key for Erith as being able to get repairs and parts quickly is essential to their business and they wanted a full bumper to bumper solution.” For more information on optimising your demolition fleet with Finning UK & Ireland go to www.finning.com/en_GB/industries/industrial/demolition.htm Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Commissioning machine rebuilds is already an integral part of Heidelberg Materials UK’s fleet management plan. This month the company welcomed a rebuilt Cat® 988K XE with electric drive back to its Whatley asphalt plant following a Cat Certified Powertrain Rebuild, giving it a new lease of life and many more hours of operating capability. The electric drive machine has been operating at the plant in Somerset since 2018 when the company bought it from Finning, the world’s largest dealer of Cat equipment and parts. It was purchased with one of the top-level warranty packages offered by Finning, which included a full servicing and maintenance programme and remote asset condition monitoring so any faults could be identified and fixed before the machine is at risk of failure. As the machine began to reach 18,000 hours, the operational team began discussions with Finning to identify the best solution for replacement that fulfilled both the company’s commercial needs and sustainability objectives. Having had a full service and maintenance programme meant the machine was in good condition to be rebuilt. “Finning guided us through the process of comparing the benefits of buying a new machine with having the machine rebuild instead,” explained Luke Morgan, Fleet Manager for Heidelberg Materials UK. “We carefully considered all the benefits and concluded that the rebuild was the best option for us at this time. Doing so not only supports our company-wide commitment to sustainability and enables us to reduce our carbon footprint, but crucially, choosing to have the machine rebuilt also meant we could have it back operating on-site within 12-weeks. Finning was also able to provide a five-year warranty giving us reassurance that the machine will continue to operate effectively during its next life.” The Cat 988K XE was first launched in the UK in 2017 and is the first wheel loader from Caterpillar® fitted with an electric drive. It makes use of switched reluctance technology –an electric motor that runs by reluctance torque, and is equipped with a powerful Caterpillar engine, providing up to 579 horsepower enabling the operator to drive the machine at up to 40km per hour. It also provides optimised performance and serviceability, allowing operators to move material on site efficiently and safely at a lower cost per tonne. The 988K XE also emits up to 37% less CO2 an hour than its predecessor – the Cat 988K – and 45% less CO2 per tonne of material used. In 2022, Cat launched an upgraded version of the Cat 988K XE. The newer version can deliver up to 10% faster downhill speeds, improved rim pull, and increased hydraulic breakout force resulting in a further increase in productivity on the previous model of around 5%. The latest version also improves cycle times in load and carry applications and offers faster manoeuvrability as a result of having an optional counterweight which increases stability. Mark Tudball, Engine & Drivetrain Product Manager at Finning explains the additional benefits of choosing a rebuild for this machine: “The electric drive transmission in the Cat 988K XE means there are fewer moving parts than on a manual transmission. This means there are less components – around 20% fewer – and therefore less moving parts to recondition and replace as part of the rebuild process. “Although there are more electrical inspections needed once the rebuild is done, a large proportion of the electrical components, such as the power inverter and drive motors, can be removed from the original machine and reused making it a more circular, sustainable option for customers. Caterpillar reuse and salvage guidelines ensure we can offer a second life to components if they pass this process. “A further advantage is that the rebuilt machine benefits from having the latest engineering updates, which may include parts or electronic software. So despite being built originally in 2017, the rebuilt machine has the same functionality and performance of the later 2022 model, ensuring maximum longevity and efficiency.” “Rebuilding the latest technologically advanced machines shows a rebuild is not purely for older machines, the rebuild offering is aligned with newer technologies and is moving with the times to ensure the latest new machines sold have a rebuild solution in place when needed”. Gary Huxley, Product Support Sales Manager at Finning, said: “Managing machines throughout their operational life is a key part of Heidelberg Materials UK’s fleet management approach. We’ve worked with the company for more than 20 years with Cat machines making up a large proportion of its total fleet. “They typically take advantage of the engineering support and warranty packages we offer to ensure their machines are maintained and serviced and kept operating effectively, while minimising unexpected downtime. “Rebuilt machines are becoming a mainstay in the company’s fleet. Between 2021 and 2023 they have had 14 machines rebuilt, including a Cat 988K that had a Cat Certified Powertrain rebuild at 17,000 hours and is still going strong at 28,600, and a Cat 988H which has been rebuilt several times and is still operating with 47,000 hours on the clock. The company has also previously commissioned rebuilds of a Cat 972, five Cat 980s and seven Cat 775s. “The success of previous rebuilds was certainly a factor in their decision to choose to have this latest machine rebuilt and they have already commissioned the rebuild of their second Cat 988K XE machine operating at the asphalt plant in Whatley.” Luke Morgan, Fleet Manager for Heidelberg Materials UK, said: “Sustainability is at the heart of our operations. We have set ourselves ambitious targets and we are already making significant gains, having reduced our operational CO2 emissions by more than 50% since 1990.” “ We’re always looking for new processes and technologies that will enable our transport and heavy equipment fleet to be more efficient. A big part of this is increasing the use of products that have a lower carbon footprint.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Employees from Finning recently spent the day volunteering at specialist rehabilitation centre, Willowdene as part of its commitment to support community initiatives. The volunteers, who chose to support the Social Enterprise in recognition of the work it does to help both men and women in getting their lives back on track, helped out with day-to-day tasks on the working farm and training centre, as well as learning more about the initiatives run by the trust. Set up in 1988, Willowdene, in Bridgnorth, puts in place innovative training and rehabilitation schemes to help people who have faced difficulties in their lives – and to work to identify and address issues that can be a contributing factor in offending. Together with their support, they can pave the way towards a brighter future. In addition, Willowdene has been commissioned by the Ministry of Justice to help women gain the specialist support they need to overcome challenges in their life that can play a factor in offending, such as abuse, exploitation, housing issues and mental health issues. The Prison Reform Trust states that more than half of the women in prison in the UK report having suffered domestic abuse, and 53 per cent suffered abuse in their childhood, while half of women leaving prison have no settled accommodation. Willowdene aims to work with women to address past trauma and put in place steps to help them make a fresh start. Finning, the world’s largest dealer of Cat® equipment, parts and services, provides time for its employees to support charities. The company’s marketing team, based at the headquarters in Cannock, Staffordshire, chose Willowdene as their charity of choice, particularly in recognition of its work to help women. Marketing Manager Tracey Earp said: “As we approached the end of last year, we all decided that we would like to join forces to show our support for a local charity and get involved if we could. “It’s so insightful to see from the inside the amazing work that Willowdene does to pick people up when they need it most and to help them see that they can make a positive change in their lives. “Their work to support women is something that really resonated with us, and we wanted to raise awareness of that within the company as well as take time out to support Willowdene.” Matthew Home, CEO at Willowdene said: “We were extremely grateful for the support that Finning staff provided during their day with us. They helped further our social enterprise activities which generates income to directly support women on our programmes to tackle the trauma of their past. “Their generous donations to our clothing bank were also gratefully received. It was a pleasure to work alongside Finning staff who put 100% into their time with us to make a tangible and direct difference to those most in need.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
AUMA Actuators Limited (AUMA UK), a world leader in electric valve actuation technology, has successfully extended its Service Level Agreement (SLA) with Anglian Water until 2028. AUMA UK and Anglian Water worked in partnership to develop and deploy a new and unique process to service, maintain and replace a range of actuators throughout the Anglian Water region. This extended SLA continues to provide Anglian Water with access to AUMA’s unique ‘rapid response’ service to replace both AUMA and other manufacturers’ equipment, as well as a ‘replacement in advance’ for critical actuators. Cliff Marriner, Head of Integrated Maintenance Engineering, Anglian Water Services, says: “Speed of response is essential to our operations. Given current global supply issues, AUMA’s ability to source and supply locally is a major benefit to us. They have been proactive in their approach which has helped us deliver our service to our customers. They have also introduced a number of added value innovations that demonstrate a willingness to go the extra mile for our benefit.” Anglian Water’s key objective is to maximise availability of actuated valve operations throughout its region. The size and operating parameters of each installation varies, with a wide range of combinations of actuator, controls and drive coupling required to be available at short notice. AUMA’s extensive range of high performance actuators is designed using a modular approach to actuator components. Actuators can be quickly combined to provide a bespoke actuator assembly constructed to the exact requirements of applications. Paul Hopkins is AUMA UK’s Managing Director. He says: “We have worked closely with Anglian Water over a number of years now to refine and shape the service we are able to offer, creating the SLA that we have been able to put in place as part of our supply contract with them. “This collaborative approach has enabled us to shape our service to closely match the needs of Anglian Water. We have also introduced a number of innovations – from reducing our environmental impact through the use of sustainable packaging, to improving health and safety by reducing time on site undertaking repairs. In addition, we have created a unique online Anglian Water Knowledge Base, which is accessible to all registered Anglian Water engineers and technicians. This provides 24/7/365 access to essential information, video tutorials and technical information.” Under Anglian Water’s SLA, AUMA undertakes to receive a faulty unit along with its drive coupling and replace it either from new or from service exchange stock, along with a newly machined drive coupling, within the agreed parameters of the SLA. AUMA offers a ‘Replacement in Advance’ service for critical installations, where AUMA provides a complete replacement unit in advance of the return of the faulty one. Paul Hopkins continues: “Reactive maintenance can lead to all sorts of issues, such as repairs that require ongoing attention. That’s why a scheduled service programme offers a range of benefits – from preventing issues before they happen to better time management.” AUMA is also providing full training to Anglian Water maintenancestaff through its AUMA Certified Engineering (ACE) training. Delivered on-site, on-line or in AUMA’s dedicated training suite at its head office in Clevedon, Somerset, ACE is a structured programme that trains Anglian Water technicians to install, operate, maintain and troubleshoot AUMA actuators, meeting asset management obligations to maintain equipment in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Accredited ACE Technicians are provided with ID cards to prove their level of competency. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Prolec Safety Systems Unveils: Game-changer “One Screen” Solution Redefining Safety and Productivity (2D) in Construction. Meeting Industry Demands: In response to the time-sensitive nature of the construction sector, Prolec, Europe’s largest manufacturer of plant safety equipment, is set to make waves once again. Just over a year ago, Kinshofer’s acquisition of Prolec marked a significant move in the industry. Today, 06th of February, Prolec is poised to take the construction industry by surprise once again. In a remarkable initiative, Prolec will become the first in the industry to seamlessly combine Safety and 2D Guidance on a single screen. Overview of Prolec Safety Systems: For the past 40 years, Prolec Safety Systems has been dedicated to engineering cutting-edge solutions that prioritise safety without compromising on productivity. Our unwavering commitment to innovation, reliability, and customer satisfaction has led us to become a trusted leader in the industry. Prolec Safety Systems integrates Height and Slew Limiters with RCI (Rated Capacity Indicators) for comprehensive safety control. Our safety systems are designed to ensure operators maintain control within defined parameters, setting the standard for reliable and precise plant safety solutions. A Shift in Dynamics: Prolec Safety Systems brings forth a transformative shift, replacing the complexities of dual screens with an all-encompassing solution. Imagine seamlessly integrating safety and productivity with automatic stops to prevent costly damages and cutting-edge 2D guidance. Overview of Prolec 2D Guidance: Prolec 2D Guidance, a state-of-the-art technology, enhances construction productivity with unparalleled precision. The system provides real-time 2D guidance, empowering operators to achieve optimal digging accuracy. Prolec 2D Guidance minimises errors and enhances efficiency, reducing project timelines and costs, making it an indispensable tool for construction professionals aiming for unmatched precision. Global Debut: Prolec 2D Guidance Options for PME400 and PME500 We are thrilled to announce the global debut of our groundbreaking integration, set to take place on the 6th of February. Kinshofer Prolec will become the first in the industry to seamlessly combine Safety and 2D Guidance on a single screen. This revolutionary system will be available for firsthand experience at INTERMAT in Paris. Prolec 2D Guidance options include: Unparalleled Advantages: Why Prolec Stands Out: Prolec PME Safety and 2D add-in solution removes the need for moving hardware between machines. It utilises existing, securely anchored hardware for safety across all tasks, offering a cost-effective choice. This shift ensures safety and productivity seamlessly integrate, going beyond a checkbox approach. The system halts the machine automatically when hazard thresholds are reached, ensuring an unprecedented level of safety for both personnel and infrastructure. Endorsement from CTA Training Academy: Upgrade in the Field Option: For those already benefiting from Prolec safety, our upgrade in the field option maximises cost-effectiveness, utilising current hardware and preparing the machine for diverse projects. Trusted Distribution Network: Prolec Safety Systems has collaborated with trusted distributors across the UK who are well-equipped to support with new sales and existing customer upgrade inquiries. For their contact details, please reach out to Prolec directly. Prolec – Where Safety Meets Efficiency: This isn’t just a product; it’s a game-changing advancement. Prolec offers a dedicated safety ECU. There is a clean separation between safety and guidance functions. Lead the industry in combined efficiency and safety on a singular screen, making it not just a smart investment but a commercial triumph. Prolec – Elevating Safety to Priority #1: Experience an all-in-one-screen solution, encompassing Height & Slew limiters, RCI, and 2D Digging Guidance in a single, user-friendly interface. Prolec Safety Systems is setting a new benchmark for safety and productivity in the construction domain. For enquiries, please contact: Marketing@prolec.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
L75 and L85 updated with features from the Top-of-the-Range… In 2021, Bobcat launched the company’s first compact wheel loader (CWL), the L85. In 2022, the company added the L75 value model and in 2023, Bobcat launched its top-of-the-range premium model, the L95. As part of Bobcat’s continuous improvement programme based on customer feedback, the company has announced annual updates for the L75 and L85 for model year 2024, allowing owners of the latest versions of these machines to benefit from some of the advanced features that were introduced last year on the L95. Award-Winning Wheel Loaders The Bobcat compact wheel loader range continues to win awards. The L85 was announced as a Product discipline winner in the 2021 edition of the world-renowned iF Design Awards. In September last year, the L75 and L85 won in the Product Design category in the international BIG SEE awards promoting unique and original creative achievements. With the award-winning designs of all three models, Bobcat has ensured that they share the same high level of standard features, providing high operator comfort and ease-of-operation, including: New features on the L75 and L85 (2024 model year) Power Bob-Tach (NEW) – factory option for L85 This provides a high-performing Bobcat attachment connection for applications in which maximum capacity for load and carry by bucket and pallet fork is not as important as connectivity to multiple Bob-Tach compliant attachments shared on the same job site with Bobcat skid-steer and compact track loaders. Heated Air Suspension Cloth Seat (NEW) – factory option The cab seat now offers a higher back rest with a head rest, together with air suspension set-up, lockable floating and left-hand adjustable arm rest, providing a new level of operator comfort on the L75 and L85. The cloth surface of the seat with heating added improves the operator’s comfort all year round − in both cold and hot weather. The seat also includes a sensor to indicate operator presence and to enhance safety (by inactivating auxiliary flow). Advanced Attachment Control (Improved) – standard configuration in L85 / factory option in L75 Bobcat has improved the advanced attachment system by adding new features that make the operator’s life easier. The new flex-drive feature allows the operator to change the engine’s RPM by manual throttle, independently from the foot throttle, at any time during operation. With this change, Bobcat has also provided auto-idle functionality when the machine is not in use for four seconds to reduce fuel consumption. Automatic Ride Control (Improved) – factory option To further enhance driving comfort at higher speed as well as with higher loads, Bobcat has improved this feature to meet customer expectations based on their feedback. The automatically activated loader boom suspension improves the operator’s comfort and helps protect the transported material from spillage when driving with a bucket or pallet forks. There is also more stability while moving up and down with a load/weight. Display logic has also been updated to indicate ride control activation-inactivation status. High Flow (Improved) – factory option This industry-unique feature adapted from other Bobcat loaders brings a 100 l/min flow to run high-flow attachments, such as snow blowers and planers. To further improve high flow attachment performance, Bobcat has increased the pressure from 200 to 225 bar. With this change, Bobcat has also reduced by 50% the time for automatic derate, set to protect hydraulic components when the machine is cold. Joystick Control (Improved) – standard configuration Based on customer feedback, Bobcat has improved the forward-reverse response time, together with improved lift and tilt multi-functionality to enhance productivity and operating experience. Machines already in the field can be updated simply by downloading new software – this is another Bobcat competitive advantage. Left-hand Arm Rest Upgrade for Suspension Seat (NEW) – Aftermarket orderable item For greater seating comfort and left hand support. To update the current suspension seat in the field, this feature is offered via the Aftermarket services from Bobcat. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
