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
Doosan Bobcat is showcasing a range of new material handling equipment at the LogiMAT 2023 Exhibition from 25-27 April 2023 at the Stuttgart Trade Fair Centre in Germany, on Stand No B57 in Hall 9, hosted by Doosan Industrial Vehicle (DIV). The LogiMAT stand is split into three areas: “As
Cyril and Louis Keller, the brothers who invented the world’s first compact loader (later named the Bobcat skid-steer loader), have been selected as 2023 inductees for the National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF) in the USA. The NIHF annually recognizes inventors, promotes creativity and advances the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship.
Willemsen Infra BV, a civil engineering company from Utrecht in the Netherlands, purchased a new Bobcat E10e electric mini-excavator earlier in 2022. It is now one of the many electric vehicles and machines that WiIlemsen Infra uses on its projects. According to Justin Willemsen, Director at Willemsen Infra, the company’s
1. As the attachment revolution continues apace, what are some of the new innovations that have come to market in recent years in the excavator attachment space? In recent years, Mini-Excavators (MEX) have developed into real Tool Carriers. This is thanks to the application of new technology and improved machine stability
– The telehandlers are used for both construction and farming work – Launched earlier this year, the first of Bobcat’s new R-Series telehandlers have been delivered in the UK. The three T41.140SLP 14 m Stage V telehandlers form part of an order for five T41.140SLPs purchased by Truelove Property and
In the Czech Republic, refurbishment of family houses dating from the 1970s is often not worthwhile and a good number of these properties are demolished. This was the case with a house in Rudná near Prague, which the owner had decided to demolish. However, quotes from companies to do the
Compaction applications are a required part of numerous industries, and no construction site is complete without a soil and asphalt compactor. To meet this demand, Bobcat has launched the company‘s new Light Compaction Product Line, in collaboration with the Ammann Group, a brand known for its comfort and productivity. This
You’re sure to notice a skid-steer loader or a Bobcat near a construction site, farm, or park. You can use these machines for anything from transporting logistics to pouring cement to leveling land if needed. The total North American skid steer and compact track loader market are projected to be
Bobcat is launching new Stage V compliant telehandlers alongside Stage V versions of the company’s M-Series T450 and T590 compact track loaders. In both the new telehandlers and compact track loaders, the changes include several new features and options. The new machines are powered by proven Bobcat D34 and D24
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
Doosan Bobcat is showcasing a range of new material handling equipment at the LogiMAT 2023 Exhibition from 25-27 April 2023 at the Stuttgart Trade Fair Centre in Germany, on Stand No B57 in Hall 9, hosted by Doosan Industrial Vehicle (DIV). The LogiMAT stand is split into three areas: “As a company, we are evolving in bold ways to meet our customers’ toughest challenges by offering innovative solutions for a more sustainable future,” said Scott Park, Doosan Bobcat CEO and Vice Chairman. “Alternative-energy products—such as hydrogen—give customers options, while also leading the way towards a more sustainable future and greener tomorrow.” The presence of multiple machines displayed in Bobcat colours is in line with the recent announcement from Doosan Bobcat that the company’s Forklift and Portable Power product lines will transition to become part of the Bobcat product portfolio. Highlights of the Doosan Bobcat stand: Preview of 3-Wheel Electric Forklift with Lithium Battery Doosan is presenting the prototype B18NT 3-wheel electric forklift delivered from the factory with a lithium battery only. The B18NT forklift will be an economy model, to compete with a growing demand in the market for lithium powered electric forklifts in this typical eco segment. The truck being shown at LogiMAT is a preview machine, looking for feedback from the market to see if adjustments need to be made to the final model. New High Capacity Electric Counterbalance Forklifts Also in the second area, Doosan is showing the new B100NS forklift, part of two new ranges of high capacity electric counterbalance forklift trucks recently launched by the company. These new products from 6-10 tonne provide industrial users with a wide choice of zero-emission, low-noise level, environmentally friendly trucks capable of tackling heavy duty tasks. The newly launched B80NS and B100NS heavy-lifting electric trucks with capacities of 8.0 and 10.0 tonne, respectively, offer improved capability, power and performance for businesses across a broad spectrum of industry – from manufacturing, engineering and foundries, to building supplies, transport and warehousing. Hydrogen Fuel Cell-Powered Forklift Concept Another of the highlights of the LogiMAT stand is DIV’s newest B30X-7 Plus hydrogen fuel cell-powered forklift concept. Included in the area dedicated to the Bobcat branded products at LogiMAT, the B30X-7 Plus forklift will be developed under the Bobcat product portfolio as part of the transition of Doosan products into the Bobcat trade dress. Hydrogen fuel cell forklifts offer longer operating times and faster refuelling, making them ideal for applications that require extended use and quick refuelling turnaround. For warehouses operating multiple shifts, the hydrogen fuel cell forklift is a viable option to reduce their carbon footprint while still meeting the operational needs to run longer hours with no charging required. The other Bobcat branded forklifts in this area are the D30S-9 and B20X-7 Plus models. Full Liner Offer from Doosan (Forklifts, Warehouse Trucks, Premium and Economy Products) With the models being shown in this area, Doosan is demonstrating the company’s ability to offer a full line of models for the material handling market. Not only the counterbalanced forklifts the company is known for, but also warehouse equipment products such as pallet trucks, stackers and reach trucks. As another aspect of being a full liner, Doosan is also offering economy models in certain product categories, expanding the company’s portfolio in another direction as well. Models showcased in this area: About Doosan Industrial Vehicle Doosan Industrial Vehicle is a company within the Doosan Group. Since the production of the first forklift in Korea in 1968, the Forklifts Division has been determined to meet customers’ needs for quality material handling supplies and services. All machines are designed to offer simple, powerful and high performance as well as operator comfort and environmental friendliness, that help customers to get the most from their investment. Doosan Industrial Vehicle now supplies forklifts to over 90 countries and has become a preferred supplier to many of the world’s leading fleet users. Doosan is a major new force in materials handling. For more information on Doosan Industrial Vehicle, visit https://doosaniv.com/eu/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Cyril and Louis Keller, the brothers who invented the world’s first compact loader (later named the Bobcat skid-steer loader), have been selected as 2023 inductees for the National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF) in the USA. The NIHF annually recognizes inventors, promotes creativity and advances the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. How it all began In the 1950s, brothers Cyril and Louis operated a small machinist-blacksmith shop in Minnesota together, building and repairing machinery for local farmers. A farmer approached them with a need for a self-propelled loader light enough to be lifted to the second floor of a turkey barn and small enough to clean around the barn’s upright poles. In response, in 1957, the Kellers built a three-wheeled loader with two drive wheels in front and a caster wheel in the rear – the predecessor to the modern skid-steer loader. The loader came to the attention of Melroe Manufacturing Company (now Bobcat), which invited the Kellers to demonstrate their invention in their booth at the Minnesota State Fair in 1958. After a successful demonstration at the fair, the Melroe Manufacturing Company was awarded exclusive manufacturing rights to the machine on a royalty basis and hired the Keller brothers to refine the design and put the machine into production. World’s first true skid-steer loader To improve on the design of the loader, a second set of drive wheels was added to the back of the loader in 1960. With this four-wheel drive, the M400 became the world’s first true skid-steer loader. ‘Skid-steer’ describes the unique steering system, which enables the machine to turn within its own length. Later, the Bobcat brand name was established because of the machine’s toughness, quickness and agility. Joe Keller, son of Louis, said, “The Bobcat loader has positively impacted the lives of thousands of employees who have worked for the company, dealers who sell the machines, and customers who use the equipment every day to build their livelihood. While we may not always realize its impact, it is an integral part of our everyday life—from supporting farm operations that result in food on our tables to hauling materials around a jobsite building our homes and offices.” Sixty-five years later As Bobcat celebrates 65 years since the invention of the machine that created the compact equipment industry, it has continued to forge the future of the industry through innovation and forward-thinking. Bobcat now offers more than 100 products in the compact, grounds maintenance and industrial equipment industries, and produces more than 150 families of attachments. Other awarded inventors Other NIHF 2023 inductees include Rory Cooper, who invented wheelchair technology; Luis von Ahn, who co-created the website security program reCAPTCHA; Angela Hartley Brodie, who discovered and developed a class of drugs called Aromatase Inhibitors that stop the production of hormones that fuel the growth of cancer cells; and 14 other innovation pioneers. This year marks the 50th anniversary event of NIHF’s founding in 1973, when Thomas Edison was the sole inductee. Acknowledging the award on behalf of his father and uncle, Joe Keller said, “This recognition is a great honour to dad and Cyril’s families, but it is not just for us. It is a recognition for all of the early and current Bobcat employees who have helped bring our little ‘Keller loader’ to be the Bobcat machine it is today. It has been a great honour to have had a front-row seat watching this invention revolutionize the way work gets done around the world.” For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Willemsen Infra BV, a civil engineering company from Utrecht in the Netherlands, purchased a new Bobcat E10e electric mini-excavator earlier in 2022. It is now one of the many electric vehicles and machines that WiIlemsen Infra uses on its projects. According to Justin Willemsen, Director at Willemsen Infra, the company’s choice of electric machines is mainly motivated by the stricter emission requirements in many city centres and by the advantage that having such equipment in the fleet offers when tendering for government contracts. Willemsen Infra offers a broad portfolio, covering earthmoving, road works and hydraulic engineering and is mainly active in the Utrecht region. It is a family business that was founded in 2008 and employs about 65 people. The company works mainly in the repair, maintenance and construction of sewerage systems, paving and soil remediation. Willemsen Infra also has a number of push boats with pontoons, with which work can be carried out on and along the canals of Utrecht. Modern Machinery Fleet Willemsen has a state-of-the-art fleet of machinery and vehicles. The company formed the fleet with the focus on reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, as most of the work it carries out is in urban areas. It also why several of the machines have a limited axle load of a maximum of two tonne and are equipped with tracking systems, with which the journeys and fuel consumption can be tracked. Justin Willemsen is a strong supporter of the use of electric equipment and tools. The company already has 14 electric vans in operation and recently an electric truck with a spray suction installation system for sewer work was added to the fleet. In addition, the company is gradually switching to electric power tools; including heavier kit such as band saws and vibratory plates. “We believe that we should actively contribute to making construction more sustainable,” says Justin Willemsen, “but the use of electric equipment also provides commercial benefits. When registering for the tendering of government projects, you have a significant advantage if you can carry out the work with electric equipment. We have already won several contracts where fully electrical work was a precondition. And the requirements for the use of construction equipment and vehicles in urban areas are only getting stricter.” Utrecht Precursor to Emission-Free The municipality of Utrecht, where Willemsen Infra works much of the time, is one of the trailblazers in the Netherlands when it comes to environmental and emissions policy. An environmental zone has now been set up in Utrecht, in which diesel vehicles are prohibited. This zone is likely to be expanded in 2023. By 2025, the power supply to the city centre is also required to be completely emission-free. These measures have been introduced to limit noise pollution and harmful emissions, but also to prevent vibrations that can damage the historic buildings. The municipality of Utrecht wants to achieve a completely emission-free city centre by 2030 at the latest. The municipality has also examined the role of construction machinery and mobile equipment. The engineering company, Royal HaskoningDHV, was commissioned by the municipality to carry out research into the causes of air pollution in the city, and this showed that mobile equipment is in second place. Forty per cent of the excavators and wheel loaders used in the city centre fall into the Stage IIIa and IIIb emission classes; so there are still many gains to be made. The municipality realizes that construction companies cannot simply replace older equipment; all the more so as zero-emission machines are considerably more expensive than traditional diesel-powered machines. According to Justin Willemsen, a solution could be for the municipality to work with contractors for longer periods of time, so that they have time to recoup their investments in replacing ‘old’ equipment with zero-emission machines. Depreciation and Residual Value Justin Willemsen is convinced that Willemsen Infra’s investments in electric equipment will bear fruit. “If you have a zero-emission fleet, you are at the front of the queue as a supplier. You can win tenders for sustainability, because KPIs have been defined for this and governments are prepared to pay more for this. And you really can’t secretly use a diesel machine for work, because there are strict controls. The fines can be up to 1500 euros per violation. “To be honest, we don’t have a complete picture of the exact operating costs of electric machines yet,” says Justin Willemsen, “because we can’t say much about depreciation and residual value yet. Of course we save on fuel costs and oil, but I think that mainly the limited maintenance of electric machines will be the deciding factor. We don’t know for sure yet, but as an entrepreneur you also have to be prepared to stick your neck out.” The Bobcat E10e Electric Mini-Excavator In any event, the Bobcat E10e has been very well received; both by the employees of Willemsen Infra and the residents of Utrecht, who often react with surprise to the fact that the excavator makes virtually no noise. Willemsen Infra’s employees are particularly satisfied with the hydraulic joystick control, which is placed on an adjustable console on the side of the driver’s seat. The position of the joysticks can be adjusted as the driver wishes. There is also plenty of foot space in the operator’s position. Because the machine is so quiet, communication between the operator and the rest of the work crew is also very easy. As the E10e mini-excavator weighs only one tonne, is only 72 cm wide (which can be increased to 110 cm using the extendable tracks) and has an integrated, foldable Tip Over Protective Structure, it is not only easy to transport, but also very suitable for working inside buildings, on difficult terrain, in inaccessible places and in narrow streets. Thanks to the zero tail swing, the E10e also causes almost no traffic problems. The machine has a number of other advantages, which are specific to an electric excavator: a patented electro-hydraulic drive system that makes full use of
1. As the attachment revolution continues apace, what are some of the new innovations that have come to market in recent years in the excavator attachment space? In recent years, Mini-Excavators (MEX) have developed into real Tool Carriers. This is thanks to the application of new technology and improved machine stability due to new designs and a better centre of gravity. At Bobcat attachments, we are always working on new solutions to meet the needs of MEX customers. For example, we have recently put more focus on developing our Depth Check and laser system to support the operator in completing trenching works and to make jobs more efficient. As a result, Bobcat is proud to announce the addition of the updated Depth Check System to our portfolio. This system is a solution that uses three sensors placed strategically on the machine to accurately achieve or sustain the desired grade depth, working from the cab. The Depth Check system is fully integrated with the Bobcat panels and display, which offers simple operation and eliminates the need for an add-on Monitor inside the Cab. This simple, durable kit is wired in, so job conditions or the lack of a wireless signal never interfere with digging accuracy, and also remove the inconvenience of lag time with no batteries to replace. The Bobcat Depth Check System is also compatible with the laser receiver, so the operator can ‘bench’ on a laser signal to create slope, or to sustain a grade in multiple locations on a jobsite, which increases flexibility. Bobcat is also offering new Flail Mower and Plate Compactor attachments for MEX. The flail mower has a number of unique features on the market such as the 12 second drum stop after the power is switched off, no need to drain lines as this is integrated in the attachments, a self-levelling system for following the ground surface as a standard feature and the best balanced motor design in order to cut the grass while travelling. The compaction plate attachment is a great tool to maximize compaction, even where workers cannot go with classic compaction plates, thanks to the great reach of the mini-excavator in all these conditions. Bobcat will continue to bring to the market more attachment solutions to make the Mini-Excavator even more of a real Tool Carrier. 2. What are some of the market needs addressed by these attachments? Compact Excavator customers want to work efficiently, with the same solutions as those on the bigger excavators and with easy to use solutions. 3. There have also been major advances in coupling technology. What are some of the developments you have seen in this space? The coupling technology is not moving as fast as machine or attachment technology but is concentrated more and more on safety features, to make the jobsite safer and to avoid any kind of potential accident. One development I see expanding in this area is in hydraulic quick solutions, to reduce spending time in connecting hoses every time you change the attachments and to avoid wasting time getting in and out of the cab. 4. Which attachments are seeing increased demand in the market at this stage and why? The commodity attachments are always the most requested like buckets and couplers or Breakers, probably because the construction and demolition industry is growing thanks to government subsidies but we also see growth in Hydraulic Clamps, flail mowers and augers due to growth in cleaning and landscaping work. 5. What are some of the innovations we are likely to see in this area in the next few years? Our Attachments team will follow the Market trends and will create solutions to meet these requirements. I’m sure the biggest innovations will come because of three fundamental things: automation, digitalization and recognition. At Bobcat we are working hard on our Long-Range plan to bring the easiest to use and more integrated solutions to the market. Our aim is to make life for the customer as easy and efficient as possible. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com
– The telehandlers are used for both construction and farming work – Launched earlier this year, the first of Bobcat’s new R-Series telehandlers have been delivered in the UK. The three T41.140SLP 14 m Stage V telehandlers form part of an order for five T41.140SLPs purchased by Truelove Property and Construction Ltd, based in Lincoln in England. With standard tyres fitted, the T41.140SLP offers a maximum lift capacity of 4.1 tonne, a maximum lift height of 13.65 m and a maximum forward reach of 9.8 m. Established in 1968, Truelove Property and Construction is a family-run business based in the heart of Lincolnshire with over 50 years’ experience and the completion of nearly 1000 new homes to its name. Truelove also has a subsidiary farming business called Happy Days Farming Company. The Perfect Choice for Housing Development Projects The new T41.140SLP telehandlers were supplied by AMS Bobcat Ltd, the local Authorised Bobcat Dealer based in Scunthorpe. Barrie Truelove, Owner and Director of Truelove Property and Construction Ltd, comments on the move to Bobcat telehandlers: “We were not satisfied with the performance of our previous brand of telehandlers. We chose to replace them with the Bobcat telehandlers for a number of reasons including their suitability for our applications, the price, the lead time and the quality and locality of service offered by AMS Bobcat. It has been a very successful transition as all of our operators are very happy with the new Bobcat telehandlers.” The new telehandlers are in use on current Truelove property developments at Kirton Lindsey and Nettleham in Lincolnshire, where the company is building prestigious, individual two-storey family homes designed and built for modern open plan living with bespoke kitchens and bathrooms. Truelove builds all its houses to the LABC standard, one of the three main providers of structural or ‘new home’ warranties in the UK and the company abides by the Consumer Code for Home Builders 2020. Presiding over some of the new Bobcat telehandlers on his project is Site Manager, Henry Truelove, Barrie’s son. Henry recently completed his first Ironman challenge in Mallorca in Spain, where he performed well, narrowly missing the podium in his class. He also dedicated his race to raising well over £2000 towards the treatment costs for the mother of a good friend. She was seriously injured during a horse riding accident and was put into an induced coma for several weeks and is only now learning to walk and talk again. From Construction to More Success in Farming One of the T41.140SLP units is also being used on Worlaby Farm near Brigg, where it is being employed to lift and handle steel components being used to build a new 10,000 tonne grain store at the farm. Worlaby Farm forms part of Happy Days Farming Company. Truelove bought its first farm in January 1994 at Farndon near Newark in Nottinghamshire and then went on to buy Worlaby Farm and another in Kingerby at Market Rasen. The company has continued to grow with the acquisition of three further farms since then, with one at Snitterby in 1996 and two at Nettleham in 2006 and 2016. Typically, the Bobcat T41.140SLP telehandler is used in construction applications, but this model can also find other uses in agriculture as demonstrated at Happy Days Farming, where the telehandlers are used for applications such as loading and stacking hay bales. Happy Days Farming mainly concentrates on arable farming with over 5000 acres under management, but the company has also moved recently into pig production. Happy Days Farming employs all of their own labour and runs the farms themselves – the company is continually looking to expand and seek new opportunities in the farming market. As mentioned above, three of the new T41.140SLP telehandlers are the first of the new R-Series models to be sold in the UK. As well as the T40.140SLP, the new generation R-Series telehandler range provides a choice of 11 more models with Stage V engines. The new R-Series telehandlers cover lifting heights from 6 to 18 m with maximum lifting capacities between 2.6 and 4.1 tonne. The new R-Series range of telehandlers from Bobcat comprises the models below: Compact telehandlers – TL26.60, TL30.60 and TL30.70 Middle range telehandlers – TL35.70, T35.105, T35.105L and T36.120SL High lift telehandlers – T35.130S, T35.130SLP, T35.140S, T41.140SLP and T40.180SLP Precise Control and Placement at Height The new R-Series telehandlers offer agility on demand, with a newly configured transmission system providing enhanced smoothness to carry out the trickiest jobs at height with surgical precision. These operations are also facilitated by the combination of the Boom Positioning System, the new updated, ultra-accurate joystick, the inching function and the improved visibility from the cab. An enhanced inching pedal design is easier to use and reduces fatigue. A higher engine brake provides a shorter stop distance and increases safety on construction sites. Turtle/rabbit speeds are standard on all models and operated from the joystick. There is a new DYNAMIC mode for applications requiring rapid transmission response and the new optional hand throttle with FLEX DRIVE function allows for the control of travel speed independent from engine rpm. Approaching 30 Years as a Bobcat Dealer: Nearly 4000 Machines Sold Established in 1992, Scunthorpe-based AMS Bobcat is one of the longest standing Bobcat dealers in Europe and is approaching 30 years of partnership with Bobcat in the UK. Over the intervening years, AMS has sold nearly 4000 new Bobcat units into a wide range of industries, including construction, agriculture, shipping, plant hire, mining, landscaping and demolition. As well as Bobcat telehandlers, AMS Bobcat is also responsible for sales and service of Bobcat skid-steer and compact track loaders, mini-excavators, compact wheel loaders, light compaction and attachments throughout Lincolnshire and South and East Yorkshire. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com
In the Czech Republic, refurbishment of family houses dating from the 1970s is often not worthwhile and a good number of these properties are demolished. This was the case with a house in Rudná near Prague, which the owner had decided to demolish. However, quotes from companies to do the work were very expensive, so the owner decided to investigate other methods for carrying out the project. Other factors to consider included the relatively small plot of land on which the house was built, with the neighbour’s fence in close proximity and also the presence of a beautiful walnut tree, which needed to be protected during the work. In the end, the owner chose to carry out the work themselves with the help of a friend, Jiří Vrzáček, who is an industry expert, who regularly reviews machines and methods for this type of work and has carried out other demolition projects of this sort in the past. Jiří approached the project very analytically and found out which demolition solution would be the most effective, in terms of speed, overall costs and the lowest possible risk of damage to the environment. He considered three approaches – comparing the use of a large 22 tonne excavator, a classic backhoe loader or a combination of a compact excavator and a compact loader. Compact Demolition Solution Wins Out Demolition with a large excavator would be very fast, but spatially, this solution proved unrealistic and working with a backhoe loader would take too long. In the end, they chose to use a pair of machines with precisely divided tasks: the demolition work was undertaken using a new Bobcat E55z mini-excavator and the loading of debris by a new Bobcat T76 compact track loader. This combination, together with the use of specialized attachments, proved to be very effective: in just six hours, the house was completely demolished to ground level. Overall, the demolition and complete removal of debris was completed in a record two days and it was only the delays in trucks arriving at the site to take away the spoil that meant a second day was needed. Jiří Vrzáček said: “We started the demolition very carefully – we tore down the chimneys and gables by hand, due to the proximity of the neighbour. This was followed by lightning-fast demolition, which we actually had done in six hours. Next in line was the loading of 400 tonne of material, where we were mainly limited by the speed of debris removal from the site. “Here the power of specialized technology was fully demonstrated: the E55z excavator with a hydraulic grab gradually dismantled the house and piled the debris to one side at the same time as sorting through the material rather than by hand. The T76 compact track loader was then able to load 32 tonne of debris in 15 minutes. Thanks to quality planning and a really careful selection of equipment, including the attachments, we managed to reduce costs by almost half.” The Bobcat Machines Used in the House Demolition An E55z mini-excavator, which features Bobcat’s unique Zero House Swing (ZHS) feature, adding another level of protection to the standard zero tail swing design, providing full peace of mind when operating the machine near walls and other obstacles. The E55z has an operating weight of 5346 kg and offers a maximum reach at ground level of 5843 mm. The T76 is the largest of the new R-Series compact track loaders that Bobcat began manufacturing at the end of 2020. The T76 has a tipping load of 4050 kg. It can lift a load to a maximum height of 3.20 m. Attachments – they included a hydraulic sorting grab, hydraulic hammers, grapple buckets and standard buckets and others. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit www.bobcat.com
Compaction applications are a required part of numerous industries, and no construction site is complete without a soil and asphalt compactor. To meet this demand, Bobcat has launched the company‘s new Light Compaction Product Line, in collaboration with the Ammann Group, a brand known for its comfort and productivity. This latest expansion of the Bobcat product range under the company’s Next is Now banner is designed to meet work requirements on almost any compaction job site. Machine specifications include state of the art technologies that allow maximum performance, while not compromising on comfort, safety and simplicity of use. Altogether, the Bobcat light compaction range comprises seven different product families and will ultimately offer 37 models, from vibratory rammers weighing 29 kg up to 2.6 tonne tandem rollers. Mike Vought, Senior Director for Product Management at Doosan Bobcat EMEA, said: “The launch of the complete compaction line-up is part of the exciting diversification strategy under our innovative Next is Now umbrella. Along with product innovations this is another driver on the way to achieving our vision – becoming the world leader in the compact equipment market. To accomplish our goals, even in the extremely difficult year of 2020, we introduced an unprecedented number of new products and technologies and we will continue this in 2021. “Compaction is one of the completely new product categories together with wheel loaders, that Bobcat introduced in 2020. This expansion was complemented by significant developments in the market-leading mini-excavator, rotary and rigid frame telehandler, skid-steer and compact track loader and backhoe loader ranges from Bobcat.” The Bobcat Light Compaction Range includes: • Vibratory rammers • Vibratory forward plates • Reversible vibratory plates • Hydrostatic plates • Walk behind rollers • Trench rollers • Tandem rollers Light compaction machines can be used in a wide range of applications, such as: Construction – Light compactors increase soil strength, improve stability and load bearing capacity by removing voids and interlocking soil particles. Roadwork – Compacting asphalt and base materials improves their capacity to withstand heavy traffic and improves their general durability. Landscaping – Rammers and forward plates are used for gardening and other landscaping applications, as their compact size and low weight ensures they are easy to move between job sites. Vibratory Rammers The Bobcat line-up of vibratory rammers consists of six models – the R30, R60, R68, R60P, R68P and R70D from 29 to 89 kg and is intended for small compaction works for trenches, drainage and pipelines. Due to their ease of transport they are often used for road maintenance as well. They are suitable for compacting mixed soils, sand, gravel materials, loam and clay. All Bobcat vibratory rammers come with a reduced vibration handle and a state-of-the-art CAD calculated weight distribution, ensuring maximum safety and operator comfort. The R60 and the models above also include an integrated height adjustment system. Vibratory Forward Plates There are also six different vibratory forward plates, which are suitable for compacting sand, gravel, lean concrete, bitumen coated gravel and paving stones. Again, their compact size makes them easy to transport between job sites, and ideal for compaction in tight spaces (trenches, pipelines and sidewalks) and even landscaping. The FP10.33, FP12.40, FP15.40, FP15.50, FP20.50 and FP20.50D models are the smallest products in the Bobcat vibratory plate offering, ranging from 54 to 115 kg. The smart engineering design of the handles protects the operator from unwanted vibration, while the machine frame enables a secure grip and easy machine control. Reversible Vibratory Plates Bobcat reversible vibratory plates are suitable for jobs mainly in civil engineering and road construction. They can easily compact all ground materials, such as sand, gravel, crushed stone, concrete and sett paving. With machine weights from 109 to 490 kg, there are 12 models in the range – the RP22.40, RP22.40D, RP25.40D, RP25.50D, RP30.50, RP30.50D, RP30.60, RP30.60D, RP40.60, RP40.60D, RP49.20D and RP59.20D. All Bobcat reversible plates operate with a twin-shaft system, enabling change of direction during compaction. The twin-shaft technology also results in dual weight and a better compaction force. Hydrostatic steering controls guarantee ease of operation and a quick change in compaction direction. Hydrostatic Plates Complementing the rest of the compaction plate range, there are four hydrostatic plates – the HP50.75, HP55.75, HP60.85 and HP65.85 models – weighing between 450 and 582 kg. Hydrostatic plates are designed for heavier compaction work in civil engineering and road construction. They can compact all ground materials – such as sand, gravel, crushed stone, asphalt and sett paving – with ease. The Bobcat hydrostatic plate line-up relies on a fully hydraulic system that does not require a V-belt. They operate with a dual (HP50.75 and HP60.85) or unique triple shaft (HP55.75 and HP65.85) excitation system for maximum compaction output and unbeatable climbing ability. Walk Behind Rollers Walk behind rollers are versatile machines, suitable for compacting bituminous material but also for light earthwork and other compaction tasks. Bobcat offers the WR65 model in two versions offering a choice between Hatz or Yanmar engines, both equipped with dual drums for maximum compaction. They are fully hydraulic machines, with an integrated water sprinkler system as standard. The Bobcat walk behind rollers are also equipped with dual amplitude settings, enabling a change between soil/gravel and asphalt/bituminous compaction in just seconds. Trench Rollers Trench rollers are mainly designed for trench compaction as their name suggests. Bobcat is offering the 1340 kg TR75 (articulated) and 1305 kg TR85S (skid-steered) models. They also cover a wide range of other applications such as pipeline construction, electric and other cable installations, whilst commercial or industrial developments and even dumpsite and landfill jobsites can take great advantage of these machines. They can be used for soil, sand or gravel compaction and can even tackle hard to compact materials such as clay. Tandem Rollers Tandem rollers are used for larger surfaces of sub-base, asphalt or other ground materials. They are mostly present in small to medium commercial development sites and road construction sites. Bobcat is looking to offer a range of five articulated ride-on
You’re sure to notice a skid-steer loader or a Bobcat near a construction site, farm, or park. You can use these machines for anything from transporting logistics to pouring cement to leveling land if needed. The total North American skid steer and compact track loader market are projected to be around $9 billion by 2024. But, you may not know that they come in various sizes. So there are small and large Bobcats. If you’re looking to buy a small Bobcat, then this article is for you. Learn everything you need to know. Manufacturers and Dealers Most people refer to skid-steer loaders simply as Bobcats. But Bobcat is a brand and not a product category. There are dozens of other companies out there that offer skid-steer loaders. The brands include John Deere, Caterpillar, Gehl, JCB, among others. The companies work with independent dealers. When looking for the best small skid-steer loader, you need to consider both the manufacturer and the dealer. The manufacturer matters because it is responsible for the product’s quality, while the dealer matters because they will help you find the right options. With that said, the subsequent sections will help you answer how to pick the right Bobcat for your purpose. Consider the Size Since you’re looking for a small skid-steer loader, you first should consider the size. The loaders range from compact machines weighing about 1500 pounds to heavy-duty loaders weighing over 2,500 pounds. When selecting the right size, you should inspect your open spaces. Do you have adequate open spaces to accommodate large machinery? If not, then moving a large skid-steer loader through tight spaces could slow down your work. Small loaders are perfect for demolition work, farm use, and transportation. They can also fit into the build-up urban area conditions. When using a small machine, you’ll get less than 50 horsepower. If you need more horsepower, then it’s better to opt for a large or mid-range Bobcat. So consult with your dealer about the size. Vertical Lift or Radial Lift Irrespective of whether you’re buying a small Bobcat or a large one, you need to decide whether you need a vertical lift or a radial lift. If your purpose is to do more grading work or dirt work, then a radial design is ideal. Due to their lift path, they also have superior mid-height reach. But if your job mostly involves loading, carrying, and transporting stuff, then Bobcats with vertical lift are great. Rated Operating Capacity You must look at the Rate Operation Capacity or ROC if you’re purchasing a small Bobcat. ROC defines the amount of load a skid steer can handle before tipping. Smaller units generally have a lower ROC. So you need to ensure that Bobcat’s ROC is higher than the work requirement. Type of Attachments The skid-steer loaders work with a variety of attachments. So you need to check the type of attachments you’d need in both the short term and long term. These requirements will determine the size of the machine and the horsepower. Small loaders have less horsepower, and hence they can drive only a handful of attachments. The small capacity also affects the hydraulic power you can generate. So if you’re buying a smaller Bobcat, your requirements shouldn’t be too big. What to Look for In Dealers? Last but not least, you should consider the reputation of the dealer you’re going to buy the Bobcat from. Ideally, they should have a good reputation and years of experience servicing the loaders. Furthermore, it’d be helpful if the dealer is located in the same town or city as you are. So that whenever a need arises, you don’t have to drive long to get it done. So whether you’re purchasing a small Bobcat or a large one, it’s essential to keep the above things in mind. With proper maintenance, they will surely last decades.
Bobcat is launching new Stage V compliant telehandlers alongside Stage V versions of the company’s M-Series T450 and T590 compact track loaders. In both the new telehandlers and compact track loaders, the changes include several new features and options. The new machines are powered by proven Bobcat D34 and D24 Stage V high torque diesel engines, designed specifically for Bobcat compact equipment. Both of the new Stage V engines are based on well proven designs installed in thousands of Bobcat machines worldwide. New Stage V Telehandlers Offer Better Ease of Use and Efficiency The new D34 Stage V engine allows customers to operate their telehandlers in emission-regulated zones, thanks to the new DPF after-treatment system. In addition, the engine does not use Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), so there is no need for AdBlue®. A key aspect of the D34 Stage V engine is the new autonomous after-treatment system – DPF regeneration is performed automatically, with no impact on performance – this ensures peace of mind for the operator, allowing them to concentrate solely on the work at hand. “The 75 HP engine is mainly used by construction and rental companies in the United Kingdom, Italy and Benelux owing to its competitive price and simplicity, whilst still providing plenty of power to tackle all applications on the jobsite,” says Quentin D’Hérouël, Product Manager Telehandlers at Doosan Bobcat. The D34 Stage V 56 kW (75 HP) engine in the new telehandlers provides an average 7% lower fuel consumption and offers a 14% higher torque than the previous Stage IV engine, for more power at lower RPM and faster recovery. There is a choice of 11 different Bobcat telehandler models with the 56 kW (75 HP) Stage V engine, covering maximum lifting capacities between 2.6 and 4.1 tonne with lifting heights from 6 to 18 m. The TL26.60, TL30.60 and TL30.70 compact telescopic loaders The T35.105, T35.105L and T36.120SL middle lift telehandlers The T35.130S and T35.140S rental industry-oriented telehandlers The T35.130SLP, T41.140SLP and T40.180SLP high lift telehandlers New Engine Hood Design Increases Visibility The Stage V telehandlers feature a new engine hood with a steeper profile that increases visibility and reduces blind spots by 15% on the right hand side of the machines. Access to the engine compartment has also been improved, enabling easier maintenance. “The new 56 kW (75 HP) telehandlers will be followed by further Stage V models powered by 74.5 kW (100 HP) and 97 kW (130 HP) versions of the D34 Stage V engine, which will be launched in 2021. This will be a completely new generation of telescopics with dramatic user experience and low cost of ownership improvement,” adds Quentin D’Hérouël. All Bobcat telehandlers are covered by a three year/3000 hour warranty as standard from the factory, with the option of extending the warranty to five years/6000 hours. The entire Bobcat range of telehandlers is designed and produced at the company’s plant in Pontchâteau in France. New M-Series Stage V Compact Track Loaders The new T450 and T590 Stage V compact track loaders follow on from the recently launched Bobcat M-Series S450, S510 and S530 Stage V skid-steer loaders. All new M-Series loaders provide operators with increased performance, enhanced comfort and optimised maintenance requirements. These M-Series loaders are among the first models in the Bobcat compact equipment range in Europe to have the company’s new machine styling scheme, which includes 3D decals for the first time. “Like the S450, S510 and S530 models, skilful design work by our engineering team has ensured that even with the Bobcat Stage V engine incorporated, the same small dimensions and lift arm patterns are maintained on the new versions of the T450 and T590 compact track loaders. This ensures a truly compact size and low weight, so they can work and manoeuvre easily in tight spaces and can be easily transported,” says Jiri Karmazin, Product Manager Loaders at Doosan Bobcat. Thanks to the new Bobcat Stage V engine, noise levels have been reduced for both bystanders and operators and the vibrations lowered significantly as well to further increase operator comfort. The first engine oil service interval has also been extended to 500 hours, and improved fuel filtration means less frequent filter replacements and reduced running costs. Additionally, new DPF after-treatment technology works automatically without any interaction during normal operation. Improved Performance and Comfort The new Bobcat D24 Engine – with Bosch Fuel Injection System – improves overall machine performance, while meeting the strictest Stage V emissions regulations. Moreover, the engine power to weight ratio has been optimized in both of the T450 and T590 loaders. The new Stage V loaders now feature the previously optional Deluxe control panel as standard, offering a choice of different languages and telematics to protect the machines and to monitor their performance. The Deluxe panel also reduces the risk of misuse thanks to the keyless function. T450 Stage V T590 Stage V Operating weight 2961 kg 3664 kg Shipping weight 2665 kg 3283 kg Tipping load 2049 kg 2773 kg Engine Bobcat D24; 2.4l; Stage V Bobcat D24; 2.4l; Stage V Power 41.0 kW (55 HP) 50.7 kW (68 HP) Please find here below the walkaround videos for the new Bobcat Stage V Telehandlers and Compact Track Loaders:
