Products & Materials : Plant & Machinery News
Heavy duty electric counterbalance joins the Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks series

Heavy duty electric counterbalance joins the Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks series

With the addition of new high-capacity models to sit alongside the award-winning EDiA trucks, the electric counterbalance series from Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks is now an even more complete solution, covering capacities from 1.4–12 tonnes. Offering huge power with no compromises to performance and precision, the 6–12-tonne FB60-120N(H) Series features best-in-class

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Volvo EW240 Electric Material Handler sets new standard for decarbonization

Volvo EW240 Electric Material Handler sets new standard for decarbonisation

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) is introducing the grid-connected EW240 Electric Material Handler, the latest addition to its leading range of zero exhaust emission machines working towards a carbon-neutral future. This solution was developed in collaboration with one of our authorised partners. The EW240 Electric Material Handler is not only

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Winter weather checks: Take action to cut wear and tear

Winter weather checks: Take action to cut wear and tear

Finning, the world’s largest dealer of Cat® machines, is urging operators and owners to make sure their machines are fit for the winter to continue to operate at full capacity by minimising unexpected downtime. Frost, muddy conditions and plummeting temperatures can all take a toll on machinery through excess wear

Read More »
WINT saves 652 million gallons of water, prevents 900 incidents in 2023

WINT saves 652 million gallons of water, prevents 900 incidents in 2023

Provider of powerful AI-based water management systems elevates expectations entering 2024 As organizations around the world face rising costs related to water damage and increased focus on water sustainability, WINT Water Intelligence is building on its success in 2023 to continue solving these challenges for insurance, construction, facilities, and property

Read More »
ProSep receives official US Patent for leading mixing technology

ProSep receives official US Patent for leading mixing technology

Industry-leading global provider of integrated process and mixing solutions, ProSep, has received official acknowledgment from the US Patent Office for improvements made to its recognized Annual Injection Mixer (AIM), resulting in a new patent being issued. Part of ProSep’s portfolio of differentiated technologies for higher operational performance, AIM is the

Read More »
Nationwide Platforms’ IPAF trainee programme tackles industry skills gap

Nationwide Platforms’ IPAF trainee programme tackles industry skills gap

Leading UK powered access provider Nationwide Platforms has seen the second cohort of trainers graduate from its new IPAF trainee programme. Currently holding a 100% pass rate, the programme is designed to close the trainer skills gap and encourage younger people to become certified instructors.  Jessica Taylor, Jennifer Roddis, Paulina

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Caterpillar: The Future of Manufacturing

Caterpillar: The Future of Manufacturing

Thanks to the rapid advancement of technology, manufacturing equipment is getting better and more easily available. What has traditionally been difficult, finding what you need and someone to sell it to you at a good price, has been streamlined like sites such as truck1.eu. We’ve looked through the most current

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Mecalac celebrates platinum manufacturing milestone

Mecalac celebrates platinum manufacturing milestone

Mecalac is celebrating the 70th anniversary of its globally-acclaimed site dumper range. Originally licenced under the Benford brand, the company’s Coventry manufacturing operations have assembled thousands of models since the very first unit rolled off production in 1953.  70 years later, each model is still renowned for its robust design

Read More »
Lake District Groundworks Contractor Builds on Case Fleet

Lake District Groundworks Contractor Builds on Case Fleet

It is difficult to imagine improving the incredible views over Lake Windermere, in Cumbria’s Lake District. Yet Kendal-based groundworks contractor Andrew Harvey does just that, providing a range of groundworks services, hard and soft landscaping, external works and construction up to DPC, for many customers in the area. The company

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Latest Issue
Issue 328 : May 2025

Products & Materials : Plant & Machinery News

Heavy duty electric counterbalance joins the Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks series

Heavy duty electric counterbalance joins the Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks series

With the addition of new high-capacity models to sit alongside the award-winning EDiA trucks, the electric counterbalance series from Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks is now an even more complete solution, covering capacities from 1.4–12 tonnes. Offering huge power with no compromises to performance and precision, the 6–12-tonne FB60-120N(H) Series features best-in-class acceleration. A low overhead guard option is available on all models — even up to 12 tonnes — allowing the truck to be used in container applications for greater fleet flexibility. Single-tyre models are also available for a narrower profile, so it’s simple to specify one of these trucks to do heavy work in confined areas. H models feature Four Wheel Steering (4WS) which grants exceptional manoeuvrability, even in narrow spaces. With 4WS the front drive motors turn independently, offering superior grip and precision handling. The rear axle boasts a full 101-degree steering capability, with dual drive motors for instantaneous and smooth turning on the spot. This helps to eliminate the initial ‘push’ found with conventional drive systems. The load sensing hydraulic system ensures load handling functions react similarly to different weights. A high-lift traction control system ensures steadier and more controllable chassis movements in lifts above 2.5m. Low Noise Lift — a Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks innovation that has been widely praised since it appeared on the EDiA line — offers the quietest hydraulic pump on the market at just 65 dB. It means users will be less fatigued from extended noise exposure compared to working in similar trucks in its class. Operators will appreciate the spacious, open cabin, designed to comfortably accommodate drivers of all sizes. The cabin is rubber mounted to minimise vibrations and make for a more comfortable shift. Advanced control options, including dual joysticks for simultaneous lift and tilt functions, allow for customisation to meet customer requirements. Touch-sensitive fingertip controls provide a natural, spring-loaded response for fine-tuned handling, even while wearing heavy gloves. The ergonomic design extends to a fully adjustable driving position and self-centring steering wheel, positioned for exceptional control and comfort. All-round visibility is excellent, with the rear camera providing an improved look behind the truck, while the mast’s free-lift cylinder structure has been optimised with hoses over chains so operators can see more of the load and fork tips. With a low seat height comparable to many IC engine trucks, operators benefit from an easier entry and exit process, and it’s a much more familiar environment for those making the switch from IC to electric. The design also takes into account easy maintenance, with the two 48v batteries accessible without the need for doors, making battery exchange quicker and simpler. Each battery can be easily moved with a counterbalance truck or even just a pallet truck. Find out more For find out more about the award-winning Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks range, call the Greenline 0845 371 3048, contact info@mitsubishi-forklift.co.uk or visit www.mitsubishi-forklift.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Volvo EW240 Electric Material Handler sets new standard for decarbonization

Volvo EW240 Electric Material Handler sets new standard for decarbonisation

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) is introducing the grid-connected EW240 Electric Material Handler, the latest addition to its leading range of zero exhaust emission machines working towards a carbon-neutral future. This solution was developed in collaboration with one of our authorised partners. The EW240 Electric Material Handler is not only a better choice for the environment, but it opens up a range of new business opportunities too. With zero exhaust emissions and near silent operation, it is the perfect solution for noise sensitive areas, outdoors or even indoors, low carbon zones and for working during unsociable hours. Its quieter operation means less disruption to the operator and to people working on site, as well as to those in the surrounding areas. Sustainability in Action Electric solutions like this EW240 Electric Material Handler are perfectly suited to waste and recycling applications – helping to deliver a more sustainable way of working to match the environmental ambitions and operations of the very business itself. Thanks to electrification, the EW240 Electric Material Handler can go longer between services which means lower maintenance costs compared to a diesel alternative. With no engine-related consumables such as engine oil, filters and water separator, it also reduces downtime and costs. No time for downtime A cable connection makes the EW240 Electric Material Handler the perfect choice to increase productivity and lower operating costs in static applications. This electric-powered Material Handler gives operators the same performance and control as provided by conventional machines – with the added advantage that there is no need to stop work to refuel or recharge. Instead, operators can keep working for as long as they want – and with outstanding levels of operator comfort, this might be some time. Operator experience is further enhanced with a heated and suspended seat, and outstanding visibility thanks to the flat machine hood, rear and side view camera and LED lights.  Grid-Connected Solutions  Grid-connected solutions like the EW240 Electric Material Handler are ideal for use in static applications that are required to carry out repetitive tasks such as material handling, for example in the waste and recycling industry. Volvo CE continues to invest in technological solutions tailored to industry needs. Thomas Nather, SAS Commercial Project Manager for excavators at Volvo CE, says: “The EW240 Electric Material Handler is the ideal hard-working sustainable solution for waste and recycling – an industry where circularity is in close focus. By providing near silent and zero emission electric solutions, we are supporting our customers need to work more sustainably and deliver on their transformation journey as well as lower the cost of their operations.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Winter weather checks: Take action to cut wear and tear

Winter weather checks: Take action to cut wear and tear

Finning, the world’s largest dealer of Cat® machines, is urging operators and owners to make sure their machines are fit for the winter to continue to operate at full capacity by minimising unexpected downtime. Frost, muddy conditions and plummeting temperatures can all take a toll on machinery through excess wear and tear, which makes winter maintenance essential.  While construction machinery is designed to withstand tough conditions, adverse weather can still have an impact and lead to issues such as damage to the undercarriage, freezing and corrosion.  Cheryl Griffith, Wear Parts Product Manager at Finning UK & Ireland, shares some expert advice on how to keep winter wear and tear to a minimum: Check your levels Fluids are essential to the operation of a machine and are one of the areas that winter weather can really have an impact on as the cold can affect the viscosity of engine and hydraulic fluids. Check the oil is the right type for use in winter conditions too, while low temperature grease or coolant additives can also improve performance.  Using a high-quality anti-freeze to protect cooling systems ensures the engine operates at the right temperature – and always allow the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) system to fully purge to remove any excess moisture. This is also a good time to look at replacing oil and filters – and to book a basic maintenance service to check for any issues. Daily checks are essential The undercarriage is particularly vulnerable to worsening wear and tear, if you don’t carry out regular checks. With additional pressure being placed on tracks, tyres, suspension and the frame of the machine in negotiating muddy and wet conditions, regularly checking for loose parts, cracks and signs of damage can flag up an issue before it becomes a real and costly problem.  Also take time to check wipers and lights as well to ensure operators can work safely in rain, wind and darker conditions. Battery power Cold weather will not affect the life of a battery, but it can highlight if it is weak. Winter conditions place additional stress on uncharged components. If the battery is showing signs of weakness, then be sure to choose a good quality, heavy duty battery that will offer year-round performance.  Take your time and extra care Giving machines time to warm up properly is essential in the winter to allow them to operate at capacity – and to avoid costly and unnecessary damage to components and hoses. Where machines are not going to be used for a while, move them to a covered area if possible and disconnect the battery.  Servicing is everything  If you have a service agreement in place, make sure to book in at regular service intervals based on machine operating hours and guidance from the manufacturer or dealer. Not having regular services throughout the year can really take its toll on a machine in the winter when the working conditions mean the equipment and all its components have to work harder.  Preventative maintenance is by far the best solution to avoid unexpected downtime during the winter months. Regular servicing and maintenance is proven to keep machines up and running.  At Finning we offer a range of service options for all levels from delivering parts for a maintenance schedule to planned repairs, and tailored solutions to give customers the support that is right for them.  Find out more about our servicing capabilities here at Finning online.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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WINT saves 652 million gallons of water, prevents 900 incidents in 2023

WINT saves 652 million gallons of water, prevents 900 incidents in 2023

Provider of powerful AI-based water management systems elevates expectations entering 2024 As organizations around the world face rising costs related to water damage and increased focus on water sustainability, WINT Water Intelligence is building on its success in 2023 to continue solving these challenges for insurance, construction, facilities, and property management companies. In 2023, WINT helped over 400 leading global enterprises mitigate water damage and reduce their environmental footprint; these customers saved a total of 652 million gallons of water which would have resulted in the release of 22,000 metric tons of carbon emissions. In addition, WINT’s solutions prevented over 900 water damage incidents with a total damage potential of tens of millions of dollars. WINT’s success in preventing water damage has helped accelerate the growth of its insurance network, which includes carriers, brokers, MGAs and risk-engineering firms and has nearly tripled during the year. “The economic impact of water damage in buildings and construction sites, combined with increased water stress and scarcity, has ripple effects that impact a wide variety of industries,” said Yaron Dycian, chief product and strategy officer for WINT. “Rising insurance costs for construction and commercial and residential buildings are adding to the impact of the climate crisis and global water shortages. We’re proud that we’ve managed to help our customers avoid the pain of water damage in their facilities, and of having helped reduce the environmental impact of building on water supplies.” Throughout the year, WINT implemented a variety of innovative solutions to help contractors, insurers and property and facilities managers meet the challenges associated with water waste and damage. Over the last 12 months, the company has: “Our achievements in 2023 reflect the serious need for lasting solutions to the problems and costs associated with leaks, water waste and water damage,” said Alon Geva, CEO of WINT. “As we continue to build on our innovation and passion for helping organizations thrive in demanding circumstances, we’re using these accomplishments as the foundation for the results we deliver to customers and our shared future success.” WINT equips contractors, developers, owners and facility management teams with a cutting-edge solution for managing water throughout the lifecycle of a building, from construction to operation. The WINT platform includes automated leak mitigation with real-time detection and auto shutoff; unparalleled anomaly detection and analytics powered by advanced AI algorithms; and enterprise-grade management for operation in large and mid-sized facilities. WINT is used globally by customers including the Empire State Building, HP, PepsiCo, Suffolk Construction, as well as many other leading enterprises, general contractors (GCs) and facility owners. For more information about WINT, visit https://wint.ai.

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ProSep receives official US Patent for leading mixing technology

ProSep receives official US Patent for leading mixing technology

Industry-leading global provider of integrated process and mixing solutions, ProSep, has received official acknowledgment from the US Patent Office for improvements made to its recognized Annual Injection Mixer (AIM), resulting in a new patent being issued. Part of ProSep’s portfolio of differentiated technologies for higher operational performance, AIM is the technology of choice for the global energy industry, providing an innovative alternative to traditional injection quills and static mixers. Highlighting its commitment to optimizing its leading technologies for evolving industry requirements and operations, ProSep received US Patent 11,673,104 B2 for its latest improvements to the technology.  These improvements optimize the energy transfer of the process fluid to the injected phase, leading to enhanced additive dispersion throughout the process stream. As a result, there is significantly greater surface area of the additive for optimal utilization, reducing the need for overdosing, all with minimal pressure drop and with performance-substantiated field data indicating additive savings of 20-60%.  AIM’s improved design has already been used extensively for natural gas conditioning that requires a large turndown of the NG flow and LPG injection volumes. CFD modeling and field performance have validated vaporization distance for critical process systems.  Chief Technical Officer at ProSep, John Sabey, welcomed the recognition, commenting: “This patent is a testament to our commitment to improving the innovative solutions we offer clients and our ability to provide adaptive technology that can help optimize existing operations. As an outstanding example of our proprietary mixing technologies, AIM has a longstanding track record of reducing chemical and wash water injection for upstream operations, resulting in enhanced plant efficiency and significant cost savings for operators. These improvements, covered by the patent, create new application opportunities in the midstream, natural gas, and LNG markets. Additionally, we are also pursuing deployment in downstream and carbon capture applications. These improvements and the recognition received by the US Patent Office will allow us to continue deploying AIM across projects to support industry aims to adopt more environmentally conscious technologies that optimize critical resources.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Finning helps FCC operators with ‘don’t be fuelish’ training scheme

Finning helps FCC operators with ‘don’t be fuelish’ training scheme

FCC Environment is putting its quarry plant operators and managers through their paces with Finning training experts to improve fuel efficiencies and cut fuel burn.  More than 30 FCC machine operators and plant managers have completed the Finning Eco-Drive™ operator training programme so far, which is part of a company-wide initiative called ‘Don’t Be Fuelish’. The campaign aims to crack down on machine idle time and minimise fuel burn, as well as improving CO2 emissions and reducing operating costs. Finning, the world’s largest dealer of Cat® equipment and parts, launched its Eco-Drive™ operator training in 2009 aimed at refining operator skills to increase performance and crucially cut costs by giving operators the skills they need to better utilise the tools and technologies available in the equipment.  Due to the popularity of the operator training, Finning recently added an Advanced Performance programme specifically aimed at managers and supervisors to enable them to better manage the fleet operations and deliver greater efficiency, safety, and productivity.  Bill Stone, Group Plant Manager at FCC Environment, said: “We’ve been doing business with Finning for some time and enjoy a good working relationship with them. We started looking at all our operational data to identify how we can improve idle times – and vitally cut fuel costs – and the training delivered by Finning was an important part of that. “We’ve done four sessions of the operator training so far and feedback has been good. Many of our quarry operators have been with us for 10 years or more, but many of them don’t typically use the technology that is fitted as standard in new Cat machines which can save them time and fuel. The great thing was when they came out of the sessions, they were all fired up and telling other operators’ things they’d picked up – which was great. “I think they really appreciated the fact that they had the opportunity for one-to-one interaction with the trainer – who were on their level as former operators, so they really engaged with them. “I attended the advanced course for managers, and it was very good. For example, we learnt about the impact of using incorrect ground engaging tools and how this affects machine productivity.” The advanced course also addresses topics such as assessing and measuring equipment capability to optimise fuel usage, identifying inefficiencies as well as looking into best practice operating techniques and the fundamentals of machine application. Participants on the course develop their own site improvement plan, with the Finning team providing a follow-up review to provide any ongoing guidance and support.  Bill adds: “We’ll never completely cut out zero idling, but this campaign and dedicated training with Finning experts helps the operators understand how much money is wasted in terms of fuel and repair and maintenance. Educating the managers so they understand the economic and environmental gains achieved by only having machines working when they’re needed is already yielding savings across the company.” Jonathan Davies, Finning UK & Ireland Industry Manager for Industrial & Waste and Paving, said: “When you’ve got a quarry working 2000 hours a year every penny counts, and you must make sure you get the best per cost per tonne. “While we can supply efficient and reliable machines, the greater the operator skill and efficiency the less wear and tear there is on the machine and fuel wastage and the greater the site efficiency.” Both the Eco-Drive™ Operator Training and Advanced Performance Training courses are Institute of Quarrying CPD accredited and are available from one of Finning UK & Irelands’ facilities, or group training can be delivered at a customer site. To find out more about Finning Eco-DriveTM Operator and Manager Training courses go to www.finning.com/en_GB/services/customer-training/operator-training.html Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Nationwide Platforms’ IPAF trainee programme tackles industry skills gap

Nationwide Platforms’ IPAF trainee programme tackles industry skills gap

Leading UK powered access provider Nationwide Platforms has seen the second cohort of trainers graduate from its new IPAF trainee programme. Currently holding a 100% pass rate, the programme is designed to close the trainer skills gap and encourage younger people to become certified instructors.  Jessica Taylor, Jennifer Roddis, Paulina Stempnakowska, Robbie Hayhurst and Matt Dawson were the latest five participants to graduate. Previously, prospective trainers had to have a minimum of three years of operator experience before advancing to training others. However, this has resulted in many trainers retiring with no replacement, creating a subsequent skills gap. Designed and created by Nationwide Platforms’ Operational Training Manager Brian Sneddon and Senior IPAF Instructor Neil Laws in partnership with the International Powered Access Federation, (IPAF), the new programme accelerates the education process through a mix of face-to-face classes, on the job training and complimentary e-learning, over an intensive 10-15 week course. The course covers all aspects of operation, including an expected minimum of 150 operating hours, as well as administration and trainer management. The programme is tail ended by an intensive two-week assessment period that vigorously tests applicants’ knowledge and practical skills. Jessica, Jennifer, Paulina, Robbie and Matt had to travel to different locations to gain experience and knowledge from a variety of Nationwide Platforms depots. 23-year-old Jessica, from Teesside, came from an agricultural background and was used to operating machinery but lacked the management skills required to be a trainer. The course equipped her with the knowledge and tools to train others to match her operational experience. She commented, “The jump from operator to instructor is significant. It was eye-opening to learn how much I didn’t know, but the course quickly filled the gaps in my knowledge. I had the most amazing experience, with some great people who were always there to offer support. I would highly recommend this course to everyone.” Jennifer, 22, hailing from Hereford, previously worked on farms and construction sites, much like Jessica. Similarly adept at operating machinery, Jennifer found the IT side of the training the most challenging but the programme gave her all the support she required. She said, “Nationwide Platforms were extremely helpful, offering hands-on guidance. All the instructors were brilliant and went the extra mile to help us out. It could be extremely challenging having a great deal of information to absorb and memorise. However, as you progress, the wealth of technical information and safety information start to seep into the practical, hands-on training. I plan to take forward all I’ve learnt and do further training.” Paulina, mid-30’s and based in Leicester, was inspired by previous applicant Kelly-Ann Macgillivray to apply for the course. As a member of Nationwide Platforms’ fleet management team, Paulina had plenty of management and administration experience but far less hands-on operative knowledge. She said, “I saw how much Kelly-Ann benefited from doing this course, so when the opportunity arose, I didn’t hesitate. It’s been a tough but rewarding journey and I couldn’t have done it without the wonderful support of the tutors and other participants. One challenge I faced was the pronunciation of certain English words, as it’s my second language. Communication is vital when training other operatives, so I had to make sure my pronunciation was clear and correct. I’m now in a learning groove, and I’m keen to continue gaining more qualifications.” Robbie, 39, from Liverpool, previously worked as a regional driver within Nationwide Platforms and even before the IPAF programme came out had expressed interest in becoming an instructor. His goal now he has qualified is to upskill within the training department as much as possible. Matt, 57, from St Helens, has almost three decades experience as an SV (Specialist Vehicles) operator for Nationwide Platforms. Matt has extensive knowledge with the kit and has travelled the country operating the largest machines on prestigious projects. Now he’s qualified, he hopes to learn as much as possible with the training department. Now fully rounded trainers, the cohort are looking forward to advancing their careers with Nationwide Platforms, through further training and career development.   Brian Sneddon said, “This course is a fantastic way to build your skill set in a safe and supportive environment. It’s been wonderful having a new cohort who embody the talented people we work with, displaying amazing passion and commitment to their education. “We couldn’t have done this without the support of Neil Laws, who continues to take this course from strength to strength, giving up much of his personal time to provide a high-quality training experience for the participants. I can’t wait to see more cohorts come through the programme and encourage anyone looking for a new career path or to continue their own development to apply.” As Nationwide Platforms continues to finetune the course, applications for the next intake are currently open to internal and external applicants to increase the number of IPAF certified trainers. For more information on the IPAF training programme visit: https://training.nationwideplatforms.co.uk/en-gb/ipaf-training-courses

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Caterpillar: The Future of Manufacturing

Caterpillar: The Future of Manufacturing

Thanks to the rapid advancement of technology, manufacturing equipment is getting better and more easily available. What has traditionally been difficult, finding what you need and someone to sell it to you at a good price, has been streamlined like sites such as truck1.eu. We’ve looked through the most current equipment releases and industry trends to find out how to take advantage of the rapidly developing field to decrease wasted time and increase efficiency on any project of any size. The Cutting-Edge Technologies Exhibited This year, Caterpillar launched and exhibited their new Cat 995 model, which boasts some impressive guarantees around productivity and efficiency. Caterpillar, the US-based leader in manufacturing equipment, states that the model-995 is 19% more productive than the 994K. The Cat-995 is also much more fuel efficient, offering a 13% lower fuel consumption per hour and an available “Enhanced Eco Mode” that increases that fuel efficiency by another 8%. There are also several key design differences that are vital to the higher efficiency of the Cat-995. These changes increase the efficiency of the equipment and their service life. Some of these changes include an enhanced casting design, larger bearings and pins, and a bigger weld size, all of which play a significant role in increasing the 995’s durability and work life. It also has a higher capacity bucket and fills factors reaching 115% while being protected by the “Payload Overload Prevention,” which guards against the risk of overload. They say a customizable defense system can slow or stop the arms when the maximum payload is exceeded. These new features are powered by the Cat 3516E engine, which can be configured to meet regional requirements and are compliant with EU Stage V/US EPA Tier 4 Final or US EPA Tier 1 emission codes. Changes In Global Markets Technology has changed almost every market today, and wholesale markets are included in that. eCommerce is booming, with B2B eCommerce predicted to reach $2.47 trillion by 2026 in just the United States. This change in how business is done creates many exciting opportunities. There are several major advantages to using an eCommerce model, including a larger pool of data for increased marketing quality, convenience, and a larger reach of services. The connectivity of eCommerce has created a significant shift in how manufacturing equipment is bought and sold. Sites like truck1.eu are a perfect example of the changing industry and the incredible opportunities available if you know how to take advantage of them. Where online wholesalers shine is the reach and scale of their services and their trickle-down effect. By being able to consistently provide options because of their deeper inventory, they could afford to lower prices. However, it was extremely hard to manage such an inventory, especially when dealing with different regulations and import laws in a condensed international market. With the rapid advancement in technology, it’s become much easier to manage that inventory and offer options all over the world. A good website is also essential to the wholesale industry as it is extremely appealing if you can make your website an efficient one-stop shop for buyers. Trendsetters Websites such as Truck1.eu have been a leading name in the wholesale construction equipment industry for 20 years. It is the largest international marketplace for construction equipment, and it exemplifies how eCommerce should be used and how much opportunity it creates for buyers and sellers to come together easily. Its website is easy to navigate in over 31 languages and has a huge inventory conveniently broken down into manageable sections. It is a one-stop shop for anything and everything a buyer could need, with over 2,500+ sellers featured and over 3 million visitors each month. These types of niche market websites are the future of consumer purchasing. They offer everything a consumer could need in one convenient location and streamline the process of finding a seller. The truck1.eu website breaks down inventory options that would normally take days and weeks to confirm if sellers had and presents it in one place, like brand, spec, configuration, and even which country the seller is located in. Instead of placing endless amounts of calls trying to find that information or just sticking with your normal seller because the process of finding a new one is so tedious, you can now just come to one place and get all the information to get the best deal in minutes. What To Take Away Truck1.eu is the future of what construction equipment wholesale looks like. It’s the go-to spot for sellers like Caterpillar to bring their cutting-edge equipment, like their model Cat-995 loaders, because they know that buyers trust truck1.eu and because it’s so easy to use. This makes it the best place for buyers and sellers to meet, connect, and come to an easy agreement that will get the job done.

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Mecalac celebrates platinum manufacturing milestone

Mecalac celebrates platinum manufacturing milestone

Mecalac is celebrating the 70th anniversary of its globally-acclaimed site dumper range. Originally licenced under the Benford brand, the company’s Coventry manufacturing operations have assembled thousands of models since the very first unit rolled off production in 1953.  70 years later, each model is still renowned for its robust design and class-leading performance, but now features a whole host of state-of-the-art technologies to maximise efficiency, productivity, safety and comfort for the operator. To celebrate the manufacturing milestone, every site dumper sold from stock between now and 31st December will come with £70 worth of Mecalac branded merchandise. In addition, Mecalac will donate £70 to The Lighthouse Club – a charity that provides emotional and financial support for construction professionals suffering from mental health. Heath Davies, General Manager at Mecalac Construction Equipment UK, commented: “Since developing our very first site dumper in 1953, we’ve been hugely proud to manufacture some of the market’s most acclaimed machines. Renowned for excellent build quality and unmatched performance – all at a highly affordable price point – our site dumpers are the perfect addition to any job site. “In recognition of our milestone, we’re giving away a gift for customers and a gift to charity for every stock model sold via our dealers between now and 31st December. The festive period is particularly tough for those experiencing mental health problems, especially in the construction sector. As such, we wanted to give back to the industry and give back to our customers.” Mecalac site dumpers available are from the ROPS TA range, and the MDX cabbed range, which are ready now from dealerships this year. For more information about Mecalac’s latest range of compact construction equipment, visit www.mecalac.com/en. To find your local dealer, visit www.mecalac.com/en/the-mecalac-distribution.html. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Lake District Groundworks Contractor Builds on Case Fleet

Lake District Groundworks Contractor Builds on Case Fleet

It is difficult to imagine improving the incredible views over Lake Windermere, in Cumbria’s Lake District. Yet Kendal-based groundworks contractor Andrew Harvey does just that, providing a range of groundworks services, hard and soft landscaping, external works and construction up to DPC, for many customers in the area. The company completes that work with a range of compact machines, including the latest 2.5-tonne CASE CX25D and a 9.0-tonne CX90D, both recently supplied by local CASE Construction Equipment dealer Dennis Barnfield of Carnforth. The CASE mini and midi excavators are equipped with Engcon tilt-rotators and the company has a Digitec iDig 2D machine guidance system, that can be used with either model, to maximise versatility and productivity on site. Mr Harvey is no stranger to the CASE Construction Equipment brand. Initially from an agricultural background, he started the groundworks business in 1997, with a CASE 580 backhoe loader and has been using machinery from Dennis Barnfield since that time. “The support from the whole team at Dennis Barnfield over the last 25 years has given us the confidence to specify the machines the way they are today,” said Mr Harvey. “We know from our own experience that we’ve got a reliable product and a dealer that will back us up if there is ever an issue. That in itself is almost priceless to a smaller business in today’s climate.” Both excavators have been built to the company’s own specification, with additional counterweight on the smaller CX25D to offset the weight of the tilt-rotator. The CX90D is equipped with rubber bolt-on track pads, allowing the machine to work on finished driveways. Both machines have extra LED lighting, on top of that supplied by Dennis Barnfield to all CASE excavators, for maximum visibility in poor weather and light conditions. Perhaps most strikingly, the firm has had the side and rear glazing tinted, to prevent glare in the cab on sunny days. This modification has proven so popular with other businesses in the area, that Dennis Barnfield has already been asked if it can provide a similar specification. Mr Harvey’s son Mark, who joined the company four years ago, is also driving forward the use of technology within the business, including the investment in the tilt-rotators and the machine guidance system. The company has a growing range of attachments to suit the Engcon tilt-rotators, including pallet forks and a grading bar, which may soon be joined by a materials handling grab. “It’s just a completely different way of working,” said Andrew Harvey. “We looked at another brand, but we wanted to be sure of dealer back-up. We’d had the CASE machines supplied byDennis Barnfield and they are training up an engineer on the Engcon tilt-rotators, so we will have someone to talk to if necessary.” The company purchased its first 8.0-tonne CASE excavator in 2006 and had moved up to a 13-tonne model in the past. However, the CX90D offers the perfect combination of size, power and reach for Harvey’s mainly residential contracts. Having the main boom mounted in front of the upper structure, with an offset facility, also makes the CX90D ideal for tighter working conditions and, when combined with the tilt-rotator, it is possible to operate a cross a wider envelope around the machine, rather than relocate on the tracks. “The 9.0-tonne machine has bags of reach and it’s really stable,” said Andrew Harvey. “We can lift a full pack of blocks over the side on pallet forks, even with the Engcon tilt-rotator. It’s got the dozer blade as well, which makes it perfect for us.” Mark Harvey added: “The D-Series is a lot lighter on fuel than our previous machine. We are saving 1-1.5 litres an hour against the C Series. It’s fast and it’s smooth, you really can’t knock it.” With five full time staff, the business operates within a 20-mile radius of Kendal, in Cumbria. It has plenty of return business, though there is no intention to expand further in the short term. “We’re lucky, we are well established in Windermere, Ambleside and Bowness and we don’t need to get a lot bigger. We like to have a family relationship with our clients,” said Mark Harvey. It’s a similar story with the CASE dealer, as Dennis Barnfield works closely with the company to ensure that the machines are regularly serviced and maintained. “We’ve been happy with the dealer back-up since 1997,” said Mr Harvey. Quick SpecificationsCX25DOperating weight (with cab): 2,710kgEngine power: 13.7kW (18.6hp)Maximum digging depth: 2,700mmBucket breakout force: 22kNArm breakout force: 14.5kN CX90DOperating weight: 8,360kgEngine power: 50.7kW (68hp)Maximum digging depth: 4,590mmBucket breakout force: 56.9kNArm breakout force: 39.5kN Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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