Author: Pranav Jaswani, Technology Analyst at IDTechEx The construction machine industry is still in its early stages of electrification, with the first small electric machine only coming onto the market in 2015. However, IDTechEx’s new report, “Electric Vehicles in Construction 2024-2044: Technologies, Players, Forecasts”, highlights how the electric machines of
DEVELON, formerly called Doosan Construction Equipment, has launched the DX235RTF-7 Tunnelling Excavator, a new extension to the company’s line-up of Special Application machines. The DX235RTF-7 is based on Develon’s well-established DX235LCR-7 reduced radius crawler excavator and is powered by a DL06V Stage V engine, providing 141 kW (189 HP) of
Bobcat has launched the company’s new PG40 and PG50 portable generators, providing a leap forward in portable generator design. Powered by Stage V D24 engines and Stamford alternators, these eco-conscious models replace the previous generation Stage IIIA G40 and G60 units, delivering a combination of increased power output and lower
Leading contractor MJ Church is driving a machine technology revolution working closely with construction technology specialist SITECH® UK and Ireland over the last decade. The partnership between the two companies began when SITECH began fitting a widespread use of machine technology on the contractor’s machines with Trimble® machine control systems. As well
Finning UK & Ireland, the world’s largest dealer of Cat® machines, engines, equipment and power solutions, has launched a new power pack designed specifically for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in the industrial sector. Designed, built and supplied by Finning using a Cat C3.6 engine, it provides a flexible, configurable solution that can
Bennetts Cranes, a leading specialist tower crane hire company, has erected the first Potain MR 309 crane in the world – the manufacturer’s latest luffing jib model. The Potain MR 309 crane has been erected at a landmark site in Westminster, in the heart of London, where two eight-storey office
Since its foundation in 2018, Finnish company Lekatech has revolutionized the world of breakers and hammers with its state-of-the-art advanced electric powered solutions. Continuing its work in redefining the capabilities and benefits of hammers and breakers, Lekatech is proud to unveil its latest development at Hillhead 2024, the new Electric Hammer LEKA Toras
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
Author: Pranav Jaswani, Technology Analyst at IDTechEx The construction machine industry is still in its early stages of electrification, with the first small electric machine only coming onto the market in 2015. However, IDTechEx’s new report, “Electric Vehicles in Construction 2024-2044: Technologies, Players, Forecasts”, highlights how the electric machines of today are bigger and better than their predecessors from less than 10 years ago. OEMs worldwide are picking up the pace of electric machine development, and IDTechEx finds the industry will grow to be worth over US$126 billion in 2044. Digging force of electric vs. diesel mini-excavators. Source: IDTechEx Machine performance continues to improve The first electric machines to come onto the scene were mini-excavators. Their smaller sizes and less intense workloads made them the ideal testing ground for construction electrification. Many construction companies’ concerns then were whether these electric machines could withstand the demands of the job site and deliver similar performance to diesel engines. IDTechEx’s new report finds that electric mini-excavators are now at a point of development where they can match diesel on virtually all key metrics. EVs offer up equivalent or even superior power to diesel machines, with models from Kato and Wacker Neuson able to generate 30-60% more digging force than an average diesel machine of the same size. Significant improvements have been seen in the runtime of these machines too. Where the first machines on the market only achieved 4 to 6 hours of operation on a single charge, newer machines can manage up to 8 hours of operation (a full workday) as standard. Persistent battery development has played a huge part in this increase, and IDTechEx expects runtimes to reach 9 to 10 hours in the near future. Large excavators and loaders are coming to the fore While mini-excavators dominated the early phases of electric construction machine growth and are still the market’s largest segment, the development focus has pivoted onto large excavators and wheel loaders. Together, these two machine types made up 35% of all equipment sales in 2023 and are some of the heaviest emitters of greenhouse gases on the job site, contributing to over 50% of all construction machine emissions. Their electrification is, therefore, key to furthering the decarbonization of the global construction industry. As the rate of new electric machine models entering production has increased from 2019 to 2023, so has the size of these machines. Where 3-tonne mini-excavators once represented the height of electric machine technology, multiple OEMs now have large excavator models weighing 20 tonnes or greater. The Chinese OEM Know-How even started producing a 52-tonne electric excavator in 2023, which is by far the largest seen to date. Wheel loaders have reached a similar stage, with new 20-tonne machines now being the norm for electrification. Bigger machines necessitate bigger and more advanced battery systems, and the rise of electric excavators and wheel loaders has seen battery sizes in construction shoot up dramatically over the last 5 years. The maximum battery size installed in newly produced models has consistently gone up from ~30 kWh in 2018 – used in mini-excavators and similar compact machines – to over 500 kWh in 2023. The Know-How 52-tonne excavator is equipped with an enormous 700 kWh battery, which IDTechEx estimates would cost US$210,000 on its own and weigh over 3.5 tonnes. What’s next for EV construction machines? Many of the larger machines now entering the market have already gone down the same path as mini-excavators in matching the performance of diesel counterparts. OEMs are at a stage where performance parity is no longer challenging to achieve and are focused on expanding their EV portfolios into bigger machines and new equipment types. Chinese OEMs have been market leaders in this sense, developing larger excavators and wheel loaders while also being proactive in the electrification of mobile cranes weighing in the hundreds of tonnes. Battery advancements will play a huge part in determining the future of the electric construction industry. OEMs currently achieve battery pricing far above what is seen in the automotive market, but increasing the scale of EV production and setting up dedicated supply chains will help bring down costs. At the same time, improving the efficiency of existing battery technologies and bringing in more advanced Li-ion and future battery technologies will widen the types of machines that can be electrified and further enhance their performance. The new IDTechEx report “Electric Vehicles in Construction 2024-2044: Technologies, Players, Forecasts” provides deeper analysis of the future of the electric construction machine industry. It finds that the industry will grow at a CAGR of 21% to reach US$126 billion in value by 2044. For more information and downloadable sample pages, please visit www.IDTechEx.com/EVConstruction. For the full portfolio of electric vehicle market research available from IDTechEx, please see www.IDTechEx.com/Research/EV. Upcoming free-to-attend webinar….. The Electric Future of Construction: EV Machines On The Rise Pranav Jaswani, Technology Analyst at IDTechEx and author of this article, will be presenting a free-to-attend webinar on the topic on Thursday 5 September 2024 – The Electric Future of Construction: EV Machines On The Rise. This webinar will include: We will be holding exactly the same webinar three times in one day. Please register for the session that is most convenient for you. Click here to check the timings and register for your specific time zone. If you are unable to make the date, please register anyway to receive the links to the on-demand recording (available for a limited time) and webinar slides as soon as they are available. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
DEVELON, formerly called Doosan Construction Equipment, has launched the DX235RTF-7 Tunnelling Excavator, a new extension to the company’s line-up of Special Application machines. The DX235RTF-7 is based on Develon’s well-established DX235LCR-7 reduced radius crawler excavator and is powered by a DL06V Stage V engine, providing 141 kW (189 HP) of power. The DX235RTF-7 utilises the successful compact design and minimum swing radius of the DX235LCR-7, but the key part of the machine is the heavy duty Tunnelling Front, offering a new arm and boom design with special kinematics and a tilting function. Jan Breburda, Special Applications Product Manager for Develon Europe, commented: “The new DX235RTF-7 tunnelling machine is designed for superior performance in challenging underground environments. Complementing the safety and comfort of its operation, the advanced hydraulics and robust construction of the DX235RTF-7 ensure optimal power and durability, while its compact design allows for easy navigation in tight spaces.” The DX235RTF-7 has a total operating weight of 25,689 kg and offers a maximum reach of 9260 mm. The kinematics of the tunnelling front on the DX235RTF-7 excavator are designed to prioritize horizontal reach and precision over vertical movement. The special kinematics are based around a boom tilting function, providing a 45°/45° tilt in two directions, the movement of which can be operated via a pedal in the operator’s cab. The boom and arm configuration is specifically designed for operation in narrow areas, with ranges of movement slightly limited compared to the standard front on the DX235LCR-7. The DX235RTF-7 is specifically suited to work in restricted environments, without using the swing movement in narrow areas. This allows the DX235RTF-7 to work efficiently in narrow tunnels with the ability to reach the tunnel face and walls, while maintaining a low profile to navigate tight spaces. For work in confined spaces, the DX235RTF-7 features protective equipment to safeguard against falling debris or contact of the arm with the tunnel ceiling and walls. As a result, the DX235RTF-7 has a level 2 FOG system combined with more heavy duty covers and hydraulic piping protection. The protection also includes covers over hydraulic hoses and arm work lights, as well as enclosing the bucket cylinder and links in a dedicated protective compartment and hiding the arm cylinder under the arm. Compared to the standard DX235LCR-7 model, the DX235RTF-7 has six LED work lights, four on the front and two on the back, as well as AVM cameras as standard. Other features include PERO rotating piping, centralized greasing points and a dozer blade as an option. The specifications also include a 6.4 tonne counterweight and 600 mm wide triple grouser track shoes. Tunnelling applications often require the transportation of the machine to areas with limited access, so the DX235RTF-7 is designed to be simple to lift and manoeuvre into place. Specifications for DX235RTF-7 Tunnelling Excavator: Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bobcat has launched the company’s new PG40 and PG50 portable generators, providing a leap forward in portable generator design. Powered by Stage V D24 engines and Stamford alternators, these eco-conscious models replace the previous generation Stage IIIA G40 and G60 units, delivering a combination of increased power output and lower fuel consumption compared to their predecessors. The D24 engine in the new generators is a very impressive unit – more powerful than those in other machines of this size on the market and with a higher capacity. This has allowed Bobcat to offer a true 50 kVA prime unit on the market in the new PG50 model and still be below the Diesel Exhaust Fluid system requirement. Alongside the PG50, the PG40 delivers a prime power output of 40 kVA. In addition, both generators have a new sleek, compact design, with a selection of novel features including optional factory-mounted running gear, with either fixed or variable height, for easy transportation such as towing behind a car. This upgrade provides unmatched convenience, ensuring mobility on and off the job site. The new generators also have ‘Liquid Heat’, a low-load management system designed to reduce downtime and deliver peace of mind. Their versatile capabilities allow the new generators to manage lighter loads while preserving engine life, making them the perfect investment for job sites. Power Matched By Versatility The Stamford alternators on the PG40 and PG50 continue the use of this brand that started with the previously introduced PG100 100 kVA generator. The mechanical and electrical configuration and options also follow most of what is offered on the PG100, providing owners with the versatility they require. The COMAP MRS16 controller is again at the heart of the PG40 and PG50, with telematics options that allow units to be easily located and for their status to be read remotely. Building on its proven track record, the successful connection system from the PG100 is incorporated in the new models. Tested and trusted, these connection points guarantee optimal efficiency, facilitating hassle-free set-up and smooth performance. Operation is again quiet, with the new models offering a low noise level – the LWA 88 sound power level on the PG40 and LWA 89 on the PG50, make them among the quietest units on the market. As well as being quiet, the PG40 and PG50 are also clean running, featuring a bunded base designed for 110% fluid containment, where spills are virtually eliminated, ensuring environmental protection and reducing maintenance needs. The standard product warranty – as well as technical training and parts availability – are covered by Bobcat and the company’s extensive dealer network. The major difference in the new PG40 and PG50 is the engine coverage, which is handled by Bobcat’s own network without any third party involvement. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading contractor MJ Church is driving a machine technology revolution working closely with construction technology specialist SITECH® UK and Ireland over the last decade. The partnership between the two companies began when SITECH began fitting a widespread use of machine technology on the contractor’s machines with Trimble® machine control systems. As well as providing the hardware/software, SITECH also provided access to Beta test new Trimble products. So mutually beneficial has the relationship been, that MJ Church’s investment in increasing their knowledge of machine technology has led to the development of an industry-leading 3D machine modelling approach. Sam Lemon, Construction Technology Lead for MJ Church said that the ‘old way of doing things’ with batter rails was a distant memory with technology enabling them to run ‘timberless sites’. He said: “Site technology has gone from a ‘nice to have’ to standard practice across all our projects – because we are utilising it to such a high standard with the support from the teams at SITECH and Trimble. “When I started at MJ Church five years ago our technology was relatively small scale, but now, GPS enabled machines are standard across our fleet. It includes Trimble Business Centre, Trimble WorksOS, Trimble Connect, Trimble Siteworks and Trimble Drawing. “What’s really changed in the business is we’ve seen the value of machine control. It’s taken a lot of work to get to this point, and thanks to our relationship with SITECH we’ve been able to get involved in Beta testing new Trimble products and feedback with improvements so we can really unlock the full potential of our fleet. “Having begun using machine control on a few excavators in 2015 it’s really ramped up and SITECH have been instrumental in that, supporting us with practical help in setting our machines up and keeping our machines running when core components need replacing.” SITECH technical sales consultant Carl Parsons, said: “MJ Church is really driving a revolution in machine technology because they’re constantly looking for different ways to use it and develop their knowledge of it. “We have continued to support MJ Church with frequent software training, hardware support and installation training, and we’re proud to act as a technology consultancy service for them. “We’re very proud to support them on their journey and in their achievements which are encouraging innovation within the industry.” To find out more about more about SITECH machine control systems support, training and software solutions go to www.sitechukandireland.com
Finning UK & Ireland, the world’s largest dealer of Cat® machines, engines, equipment and power solutions, has launched a new power pack designed specifically for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in the industrial sector. Designed, built and supplied by Finning using a Cat C3.6 engine, it provides a flexible, configurable solution that can be integrated into a wide range of machines, helping OEMs streamline their engineering and testing processes. The new power pack is part of an effort from Finning to support customers in their energy transition activities by developing customer-centric solutions that meet emissions regulations. It has been designed and built as a bespoke industrial power pack for the recently released Cat C3.6 industrial power unit – although designs are also available for other Cat engines – and enables integration with alternators, hydraulic pumps or hybrid systems. Steffen Barrett, Sales Manager, Industrial Engines, at Finning UK & Ireland, said: “Our new Cat C3.6 power unit, which we’ve been developing for over three years, draws on our extensive experience in supplying power systems to the industrial sector. The unit is designed to be an end-to-end drop-in solution, reducing the number of suppliers OEMs need to manage while simplifying the integration process, as well as reducing engineering needs. “What sets this power pack apart is its flexibility. It can be configured to fit a wide range of machines, and the design accommodates different engines, power ratings and emissions levels. This adaptability, combined with the robust construction suitable for harsh environments, makes it an ideal choice for industrial OEMs. By providing a comprehensive and configurable solution, we aim to help OEMs simplify their machine development process and bring their products to market faster.” The power pack features a 300-litre fuel tank that can be serviced from the left or right-hand side, providing up to 16 hours of running time at a 70% load factor with the 100kW engine. Serviceability is a key focus, with all service items located in one area and drain ports positioned outside the canopy for easy access. Finning can also supply a full wiring and control system for all driveline types, including direct drive, hydraulic, electric drive and hybrid configurations. The control system is capable of managing both the engine and the machine itself. The Cat C3.6 power unit is now available in the UK and Ireland through Finning. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bennetts Cranes, a leading specialist tower crane hire company, has erected the first Potain MR 309 crane in the world – the manufacturer’s latest luffing jib model. The Potain MR 309 crane has been erected at a landmark site in Westminster, in the heart of London, where two eight-storey office buildings are being redeveloped. This new model from Potain has many new, improved features that will benefit the construction of this site, including, a simpler tower crane erection, upgraded load charts, a short out-of-service radius (9.5m on a 55/60m jib), and less collars and ties for taller heights and to increase lift capacity. The crane is equipped with a Potain Crane Control System (CCS) which helps with faster set-up and unparalleled control, as well as Potain’s CONNECT telematic to optimise fleet management and uptime. The new features make this crane model ideal for high-rise buildings and congested urban sites. To further avoid any collisions or oversailing on this site, Bennetts also installed the crane with AMCS zoning technology. Edward Seager, Managing Director at Bennetts Cranes, said: “We’re pleased to have supplied the first Potain MR 309 in the world. The MR 309 was best the crane for this site in London as it has a 25-tonne maximum capacity that met the site lifting requirements. “The crane needed to have exceptionally low base loads so it could be bolted to the core of the building and the limited power supply on-site meant that adjustable power supply was essential. This requirement was fulfilled by the Potain Power Control function which enables the crane to reduce its power up to 50%. Plus, the short out-of-service radius ensures the crane remains within the site boundaries at all times.” The redevelopment of the two eight-storey office buildings will provide approximately 115,000 sq ft of new high-quality accommodation. As well as a restaurant and a retail unit. The scheme was designed by Allies and Morrison to replace dated buildings with attractive accommodations that will enhance the historic character and streetscape. This crane is estimated to be on site for 50 weeks. Watch how the Bennetts Cranes team erected the Potain MR 309 here – https://www.tower-crane.co.uk/bennetts-cranes-erects-world-first-potain-mr-309-in-london/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Since its foundation in 2018, Finnish company Lekatech has revolutionized the world of breakers and hammers with its state-of-the-art advanced electric powered solutions. Continuing its work in redefining the capabilities and benefits of hammers and breakers, Lekatech is proud to unveil its latest development at Hillhead 2024, the new Electric Hammer LEKA Toras 35. The development and introduction of Lekatech electric hammer technology is seen by the breaking industry as ‘game changing’. The patented Lekatech linear electric motor technology is the result of many years of dedicated research and innovation. Its development is now disrupting the traditional hydraulic impact hammer market as its electric technology produces high levels of performance, delivering huge benefits on urban construction projects and in quarry or mine environments, above or below ground. Lekatech’s electric hammer technology is a major advance in hammer design and construction. Of light weight and high power, but producing low vibrations, Lekatech hammers are built for operator comfort, economic use and high productivity. Electrically powered, Lekatech’s linear electric motor produces low emissions and operating costs, and as such, is transforming breaking globally. Designed to seamlessly integrate with electric carrier machines, Lekatech electric hammers have been designed to be the perfect match for electrically powered machinery. The original Lekatech Electric Hammer delivers up to 70% energy savings when factoring in overall energy consumption of the equipment. In addition to energy efficiency, the Lekatech Electric Hammer has been able to significantly outperform comparable traditional technology, providing twice the blow impact energy of a hydraulic hammer of the same size. “The Lekatech Electric Hammer is highly efficient and has a power to weight ratio superior to similar traditionally powered hammers. Furthermore, it was introduced to the market at the same time as electric excavators and is thus a natural partner for electric powered equipment, and the ideal choice for when working in zero or low emission areas. Through listening to our customers and distributors, we have now improved the Lekatech Electric Hammer. We are proud to introduce the Electric Hammer LEKA Toras 35 which will be shown for the first time at Hillhead 2024 in the UK (25-27 June) at the Lekatech stand, S7,” explains Antti Anttila, CEO, Lekatech Oy. Introducing the LEKA Toras 35 As with its existing electric hammers, the LEKA Toras 35 has been developed using the latest technology in conjunction and working with breaking experts in the field. The LEKA Toras 35 is based on tubular linear (permanent magnet) electric motor technology which is designed to withstand the harsh conditions of breaker hammer use. The structure, despite weighing only 540kg, is robustly constructed with a minimum number of wear parts. “For an operator, the effectiveness of the hammer is often the most important feature of a working machine. With LEKA Toras 35, significantly higher performance values are reached than with conventional technologies. It is also highly flexible, with adjustability being integral to its development. Every blow and every gap between the blows can be adjusted individually and dynamically enabling unprecedented possibilities for hammering applications,” explains Antti Anttila. “In designing the LEKA Toras 35, we built on the success of our original Lekatech Electric Hammer. This was developed so that users could benefit from using a breaker where each hit of the hammer is optimized with the machine adapting to changing conditions. In effect, using a high precision force that learns. Lekatech technology is an embodiment of digitalization in hammering and is a catalyst for the electric transformation in the ecosystem. “Through the latest development, the LEKA Toras 35, we have developed an electric hammer which further revolutionizes the breaking and hammering industry. It has been tried and tested in demolition, hard rock quarrying and many other applications, and we are now proud to introduce it to professionals and companies who will truly benefit from its unique and market changing features. We feel that given the historical importance of Hillhead to the global hammering and breaking industry, that the show will be the perfect environment to introduce our latest development to the world,” adds Antti Anttila. Revolutionary environmental development As with the original Lekatech Electric Hammer, the LEKA Toras 35 is based on Lekatech’s patented linear electric motor technology and uses electric impact hammer technology. This technological breakthrough not only enables more energy efficient earthmoving, quarrying and mining operations, but also strengthens the realization of a green transition in these fields. “Environmental friendliness and performance go hand in hand with the LEKA Toras 35, with its programmable features providing flexibility that enable continuous digital development. Furthermore, the innovative hammer eliminates the need for oil and the oil-associated environmental impact of hammering, with oil consumption being reduced by 98% when compared to hydraulic hammers,” concludes Antti Anttila, CEO, Lekatech Oy. The LEKA Toras 35 is now available from Lekatech, and a number of countries in Europe from Lekatech’s strategically located partners located throughout the world. Key features of the LEKA Toras 35 The Lekatech stand at Hillhead will be located at S7 and will display the new LEKA Toras 35 as well as an array of Lekatech electric hammering solutions. For more information, please contact: Satu Rämö, Marketing and Communication Manager, Lekatech Oy Tel.: +358 40 537 4020 satu.ramo@lekatech.fi www.lekatech.fi Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
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
