Heavy Equipment Guide January 2023, Volume 38, Number 1

On the jobsite you need a truck that’s tough, safe, and smart. So, we built the new Volvo VHD to be the best-looking, most rugged vocational vehicle in the industry, packed with innovative ideas like Volvo Active Driver Assist and the revolutionary Volvo Dynamic Steering. Your toughest jobs just got easier.

Learn more at volvotrucks.ca/en-ca/trucks/vhd/

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Trust. Knowledge. Leadership. Deere and the Wirtgen Group have built a worldwide reputation of getting the job done smarter, safer, and more sustainably. Join us at CONEXPO-CON/AGG to see our largest booth yet — featuring the latest innovations across your production systems. From dirt to rock to road, we’ll have it in Vegas.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Kaitlyn Till ktill@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 330

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Arturo Santiago asantiago@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 310

EDITOR Lee Toop ltoop@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 315

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FOUNDER Engelbert J. Baum

ADVERTISING

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DESIGN & PRODUCTION

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TECHNOLOGY AND THE FUTURE OF JOB SITE PRODUCTIVITY

Some of the most exciting advancements in construction today are invisible to someone walking by the job site. I had the pleasure of attending bauma last fall, and while I love to check out the latest heavy iron, learn about new prototypes, and see trends before they hit North America, one of the most interesting things I encountered at bauma was not a shiny new piece of equipment – it was cloud-based connected job site technology solutions.

These powerful tools not only empower a contractor to leverage the most out of equipment, but can now fully integrate all data from job site processes for remarkably comprehensive insight into the daily activities of people, machines, and materials on the job site.

It’s notable that several equipment manufacturers, who already have extensive experience with machine control technology, have branched out to develop these brand-agnostic software tools which are not reliant on their own heavy iron and don’t need to be implemented in a fleet that favours their machines. The future of construction productivity gains is no longer in designing dramatically better hardware – better software is the key.

In this issue, I explore Komatsu’s Smart Construction platform to learn how contractors can use this data gathered on the activities of people, machines, and materials on their job site and streamline their processes from the bid through to planning and execution of a project.

Removing the fear factor from technology adoption, and demystifying new technology tools, is essential at a time when you need to do more work with fewer resources – connected job site solutions not only illuminate inefficiencies so you don’t have to go hunting for them, but provide detailed context for actions on the job site, whether it’s tying in a weather report to the day’s production, showing where an operator could be more effective in their machine, or tying a worker’s clock-in/clock-out data to specific job site tasks. Drawing all of this information together can simplify, rather than complicate, your operation.

Check out my article to learn more about the different types

of connected job site tools available and how the greater connected job site ecosystem could transform how you do business.

We delve into technology a few more times in this issue starting with a look at how smart technology on motor graders can help address the shortage of experienced operators. In an exploration of trends in mini excavators, the rising popularity of grade control and tiltrotators stands out.

Thanks for reading, and all of us at Heavy Equipment Guide look forward to delivering more insight into the latest technology and equipment as we kick off 2023.

ktill@baumpub.com heavyequipmentguide.ca

The future of construction productivity gains is no longer in designing dramatically better hardware – better software is the key.

VIEW EMISSIONS LEVEL INFORMATION FOR ALL UNITED RENTALS EQUIPMENT ONLINE

United Rentals, Inc.’s online rental catalogue now includes emissions level information for all equipment. The ability to see the emissions level when selecting equipment helps companies and contractors make more informed decisions to choose the right equipment that supports their job site needs and sustainability goals.

Using the United Rentals online catalogue, companies can browse, search, and select equipment by filtering for emissions level. This new catalogue feature makes it easy to understand the environmental impact of different equipment options. The catalogue’s four emissions level categories are:

Zero emissions, which is comprised of equipment powered by battery, electric, or solar. This equipment creates no emissions when in use.

Low emissions, which contains equipment powered by hybrid, propane, or natural gas engines.

Lower diesel emissions, which encompass equipment with Tier 4 certified engines.

Standard emissions, which include the most common gas- or diesel-powered equipment. The equipment is powered by U.S. EPA-certified engines.

In the catalogue, equipment with zero or low emissions is indicated by a green symbol next to the cat class. Companies can learn more about emissions options, including types and featured equipment in the catalogue, by going to the United Rentals equipment emissions webpage.

“We are committed to providing our customers with a wide range of equipment options to support their sustainability goals,” says Joli Gross, senior vice president of general counsel and corporate secretary of United Rentals. “With our new online catalogue feature, we give customers the power to select equipment to create lower-emission worksites without compromising safety or productivity.”

HOW COVID-19 STILL HINDERS EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURERS

An October 2022 survey of 179 equipment manufacturing executives by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) warns that U.S. equipment manufacturers continue to face supply chain issues and a persistent labour shortage nearly three years after the onset of the pandemic.

Findings of AEM’s survey include:

• Nearly all respondents (98 percent) are still facing supply chain issues.

• 6 in 10 equipment manufacturers are experiencing continuously worsening supply chain conditions.

• The two driving factors of the disruption are workforce shortages and access to intermediate components for production.

• 6 in 10 equipment manufacturers are still having issues with workforce recruitment and retention.

• Year to date, equipment manufacturers are seeing an average of 12 percent production loss, and are forecasting a slightly lower, but still significant production loss of 8.2 percent in 2023. This production loss is especially critical when many equipment manufacturers are fully sold out for 2023.

• Year to date, equipment manufacturers are seeing an average of 8.6 percent profit margin loss and are forecasting a 6.4 percent profit margin loss in 2023.

• Lead times continue to be an obstacle. While lead times understandably increased during the pandemic, they have only continued to grow as things stabilized, jumping from an average of two (2.42) months in 2019 to 7 months (6.92) in 2022.

• Due to this supply chain crunch, certain parts remain difficult to acquire including semiconductors and chips, with an average of 44 percent optimal inventory available across both sectors.

• There is no single solution to ongoing supply chain disruptions.

• Equipment manufacturers of all sizes continue to utilize a multitude of responses to try and overcome ongoing supply chain disruptions. Responses include increasing inventory and supplier base, more vertical integration of supply chains, certifying alternative suppliers, and focusing more attention on supply chain reliability over price.

OSHKOSH ACQUIRES

HINOWA

Oshkosh Corporation, the parent company of JLG, has entered into an agreement to acquire Hinowa S.p.A., a manufacturer of track-based aerial work platforms, mini dumpers, lift trucks, and undercarriages. Once complete, Hinowa will become part of the Oshkosh Access Equipment segment. Hinowa, founded in 1997, is known for its advanced track designs and electrification expertise as an early adopter of lithium-ion battery technology. Hinowa has produced JLG compact crawler boom lifts since 2010, including electric, hybrid, and diesel-powered models.

DOOSAN TO DEBUT NEW BRAND AND LOGO AT CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023

At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023, Doosan will introduce the company’s new global brand and logo. Visitors to the CONEXPO exhibit will be able to see the new brand in action, hear the story of why the new name was chosen, and see what’s next for the company.

WHAT IS THE CONNECTED JOB SITE?

Turn to page 16 to learn how people, machines, and materials can be connected via one digital ecosystem to maximize productivity and pinpoint inefficiencies on the job site.

JCB REACHES BIG PRODUCTION MILESTONE FOR ELECTRIC MINI EXCAVATOR

JCB has produced 1,000 units of the 19C-1E electric mini excavator since the machine’s launch in 2019. The 19C-1E is five times quieter than diesel-powered mini excavators and charges in under two hours. The model is used by companies working inside buildings, and in emissions and noise-sensitive areas.

CONEXPO-CON/AGG

TO BE BIGGEST SHOW YET

CONEXPO-CON/AGG has sold all available exhibit space, guaranteeing the 2023 edition of the show will be the biggest in CONEXPO-CON/AGG’s history. The show, now nearly five percent bigger than the record set in 2020, will feature 1,800 exhibitors and 150 education sessions during its run from March 14 to 18, 2023. Construction pros are ready for the show to return as well. The current pace of attendee registration is nearly double what it was at this time for the 2020 show.

BRANDT TRACTOR IS NEW DEALER FOR MORBARK, RAYCO, AND DENIS CIMAF EQUIPMENT

Morbark and the Rayco and Denis Cimaf brands have selected Brandt Tractor as the exclusive dealer for Morbark’s tree care, forestry/biomass, recycling, and Rayco Forestry/Denis Cimaf equipment lines in Canada. The lines include brush and stump cutters, compact wheel loaders, horizontal and tub grinders, forestry mulchers, drum chippers, and more.

PUSHING BOUNDARIES

Kue the service GHH provides post-acquisition. The combined team will expand Komatsu’s offering for underground mining equipment.

MANITOU GROUP ACQUIRES MAJORITY STAKE IN EASYLI

Manitou Group has acquired a majority stake in easyLi, a specialist in the design and production of lithiumion batteries. Because of the acquisition, Manitou is increasing the dedication to R&D and the production and reconditioning of lithium-ion batteries. The transaction gives Manitou specific abilities to expand its energy transition.

SPOTLIGHT

INTRODUCTIONS & UPDATES

John Deere Construction & Forestry

Excavators

John Deere’s seven latest excavator options available under its Performance Tiering strategy are the 135, 210, 245, 250, 300, and 345 P-Tier, all part of its mid-size range, as is the 200 G-Tier.

The high-production P-Tier machines include advanced features to improve comfort and efficiency. The new models have improved front-joint durability. Better torque retention at the clamp makes it less likely that the front hydraulic pipes will move. Redesigned boom-foot bushings offer enhanced durability for an extended machine lifespan.

The 200 G-Tier features a PowerTech 4.5-litre engine which provides optimal performance. Powerwise Plus hydraulic management uses intuitive technology to deliver on-demand power. The pilot controls are metered, helping provide reliable, fuelefficient machine performance. Operators can push a button on the joystick and boost power or toggle automatic boom-up and lifting functions. An optional hydraulic single pedal propel system moves the machine as needed without using both hand levers and foot pedals.

Wirtgen Comfort cabin for milling machines

A comfort cabin is now available on the W 100 Fi – W 130 Fi milling machine models. This new cabin provides operators with a more comfortable and lower-fatigue workplace, according to Wirtgen. Control elements and assistance systems are designed to make the operator’s job easier and reduce the stress of the work. The sealed cabin reduces the operator’s exposure to noise which adds a benefit for communication; the operator is able to make hands-free calls from inside the cabin, use a radio headset with ease, or open the side window for communication with workers on the ground.

The cabin air is cleaned by a filter system and the temperature is controlled by an automatic air conditioning and heating system. The cabin is also constructed as a positive-pressure system that prevents the penetration of dirt, dust, and hazardous materials.

Terex Cedarapids

Cone crusher

The CRC1350 Portable Cone Plant is paired with the TC1300X cone crusher, which at 400 hp delivers a significant increase in power over the previous version. The cone crusher is built with high efficiency roller bearings. Stroke has been increased from 45 to 70 mm, resulting in an increased throughput and improved product shape quality. It also features automated cone controls and larger closed side settings.

Features of the plant include an oversize quick-release cone feed hopper extension with an overflow chute, a 42-inch (1,070 mm) rugged straight-line product conveyor, a metal detector for off-plant feed conveyor, and service platforms with an elevated deck, guard rails, and access ladder.

Leica Geosystems

Machine control for compact excavators

Leica Geosystems’ new iCON site excavator technology is a machine control solution that enables compact excavators to carry out designs easily and accurately for trenching, grading, or moving material on a smaller scale. This solution introduces three new components: a software application, a dual GNSS receiver, and an optional communication device. The iCON site excavator application is available as standalone software or as an add-on within the existing iCON site platform. When used as an add-on, it enables a new workflow for on- and off-machine tasks, allowing construction workers to execute a variety of jobs, leveraging the same tools.

For instance, operators can use the controller unit with a Smart Antenna to stake out or create a design, then mount it in the cab to start grading according to the design. As soon as the excavation or grading to the correct design has been completed, the operator can use the same system to perform as-built checks.

Caterpillar 50-tonne excavator

Caterpillar has increased power and introduced a heavier counterweight to the new 352, enabling this hydraulic excavator to work with larger tools. This 50-tonne excavator has a maximum digging depth of up to 8,210 mm (26 feet 11 inches) and a maximum reach at ground of 12,150 mm (39 feet 10 inches), depending on configuration. Fixed or variable gauge undercarriage options are available. Variable gauge allows the undercarriage to retract to 2,390 mm (7 feet 10 inches) for easier transportation, and when expanded offers greater stability than fixed gauge.

Power is provided by the 443-hp engine. Auto dig boost increases the bucket penetration by up to 8 percent when resistance is encountered. Auto heavy lift adds 8 percent to lift capacity, and three engine modes allow operators to match power to the job.

Grade control technology is standard on the Cat 352, and can be upgraded to 3D.

WHAT IS THE

CONNECTED JOB SITE?

HOW TECHNOLOGY CONNECTS PEOPLE, MACHINES, AND MATERIALS FOR A TOTAL OVERVIEW OF THE JOB SITE FROM BID TO EXECUTION

As contractors have to do more with less, adopting new technology can be anxiety-provoking – and complexity is often assumed. In reality, connected job site tools are designed to gather all job site information in one place, which simplifies processes for contractors and delivers deep insight into the day-to-day progress of their projects while eliminating information silos. Komatsu is one manufacturer that has expanded into this technology service with its Smart Construction platform. Let’s demystify what the connected job site is and explore Komatsu’s Smart Construction.

WHAT IS THE CONNECTED JOB SITE?

The connected job site consists of data gathering and tracking of machines, materials, and people to plan, optimize, and execute a construction project from surveying and design to completion with ability to continuously monitor progress and analyze for efficiency and actionable insights. The connected job site combines surveying data from total stations and drones, machine control, payload measuring, and daily job site activities of workers for a comprehensive real-time record of the project that can inform day-to-day decision making. These technology solutions connect the job site with the office to provide comprehensive insight into the project.

These tools aren’t just for the biggest contractors. Ron Schwieters, senior product manager at Komatsu, says that a key market is small- and medium-sized contractors who don’t already have extensive connectivity capability in-house. Komatsu’s Smart Construction cloud-based technology simpli-

fies data and collection for these customers through a range of different modules that fall under the Smart Construction umbrella. With these modules, customers can link processes to optimize their fleet deployment, manage people, track materials, track machines, monitor project progress, and more all in one ecosystem. These tools enable contractors to manage the project from the bid process to planning to execution in one place.

THE CONNECTED JOB SITE BUILDS OUT FROM MACHINE CONTROL

Connected job site tools start with the data that flows from machine control on heavy iron.

Machine control is intended to deliver productivity increases – but sometimes projections don’t fully materialize. With a more comprehensive connected job site, a contractor can see where efficiency is lost. For example, perhaps an excavator operator is hitting their targets, but the trucks intended to meet that excavator aren’t matching its pace. Flowing all data into one dashboard can provide insight into where and why a job site is and isn’t efficient.

In a connected job site ecosystem, that data doesn’t just have to come from heavy iron, trucks, and total stations – drones provide valuable overview and tracking of a project’s progress in conjunction with the data that flows from earthmoving machines.

“If you fly a drone over a site, you’ve got a great understanding of where your site is today,” says Schwieters. “But

after two hours of bulldozers and excavators working, that data is out of date already if you don’t have [machine control] data flowing back to your dashboard. So, combining drone and machine data can give you the most accurate view of your job site.”

Komatsu’s Dashboard, the hub application for reviewing Smart Construction data in the office, is designed to combine the drone data with machine data for review of volumetric production measurements that compare different phases of the project, 3D design data, stockpile measurements, cut/fill colour mapping, and more.

SEAMLESSLY CONNECT TO EQUIPMENT FROM THE OFFICE

With Smart Construction Remote, customers can send 3D files to their machines from the office – but that equipment doesn’t have to be a Komatsu iMC (intelligent Machine Control) machine. This technology will work with all of the major machine control providers, including Trimble, Topcon, and Leica, and Schwieters emphasizes that Komatsu’s Smart Construction ecosystem is compatible with mixed fleets.

In addition to sending files, end-users can remotely troubleshoot equipment from the office with a view of the operator’s interface and have the ability to take control of the interface remotely. Schwieters says that Komatsu’s Remote capability is its most utilized Smart Construction tool right now because it is easy to implement and ties in with the popularity of machine control.

HUMANS, MACHINES, AND MATERIALS CONNECTED IN THE FIELD

Komatsu’s Smart Construction Field module has many functions, but at its core it connects human, machine, and material data for analysis. Workers can clock in and clock out via Field, and those hours can be associated with specific tasks. This information is transmitted back to the office, where the record of historical data can be used to track hours spent on a job against the bid time.

This platform also captures daily weather reports that can be tied into production tracking. For example, says Schwieters, if progress hasn’t met expected benchmarks, you can

Combining drone and machine data can give you the most accurate view of your job site.

Ron Schwieters Senior Project Manager, Komatsu

review historical data to see if a day was particularly rainy or extra cold which may contribute to a drop in productivity.

Machine inspection tools are situated within the Smart Construction Field module as well. The operator can use the app on their phone to document service issues and, via the app, can check fuel readings and other machine parameters.

Ultimately, Schwieters says, Smart Construction Field is designed to target specific pain points for customers who haven’t previously digitized some of these processes. It eliminates paper and ties different types of data together to deliver a greater overall understanding of what happens on the job site day to day.

“The grander vision is to be able to compare [the data] versus how they bid the project and their progress and be able to say, okay, we’re on track or we’re behind track and what’s causing the delays,” he says. Contractors can now have all of this actionable information available quickly in one place.

CONNECTED JOB SITE TOOLS CAN BE ADOPTED GRADUALLY

The end user does not have to adopt all of this technology at once – connected job site tools are additive, so contractors can

expand their adoption with the products and pace that makes sense for them.

“We’re seeing a lot of customer demand in this area – a little bit more than we expected,” says Schwieters. He thought customers would have to be convinced to adopt the technology, but finds that customers are pushing Komatsu for it, and once customers get excited, developments move faster.

“As the economy tightens up, [contractors] have to do more with the same amount, and they can’t move quickly and worry about inefficiencies later,” he adds. “Now they have to look at everything because everything is so tight and the costs are rising – you can’t be wasteful.” HEG

The end user does not have to adopt all of this technology at once –connected job site tools are additive.

SMART TECHNOLOGY EASES SKILLS GAP, ADDS ACCURACY ON MOTOR GRADERS

Motor graders are an integral part of earthmoving fleets. Their versatility and ability to meet very tight tolerances make them excellent for final grade work along roads or on large earthworks projects.

Today’s motor graders benefit from the addition of smart technologies such as machine control and automation, as well as other updated features, to make them more precise than ever before while making the operator’s job easier. These modern technologies mean that motor graders can produce results with tight tolerances, whether run by an experienced or newer operator.

GRADERS HANDLE JOBS FROM ROADS TO PRECISION FINISHING

Motor graders have always had an important place in municipal and contractor fleets, thanks to their versatility. On earthmoving jobs, contractors use graders for everything from moving bulk dirt to windrowing of material and stripping topsoil, on down to fine grading.

Technology aids in all of those roles, says John Deere Solutions Marketing Manager Matt Goedert, especially in the context of ongoing skilled operator shortages.

“When you think of the shortage of skilled operators, that’s an area of emphasis for every contractor. I think back 5 to 10 years ago, there was a shortage of skilled operators, and now it’s a shortage of operators in general,” Goedert explains. “Being able to add technology to the machine and still hit really tight accuracies without there being a 30-year veteran in the cab provides a lot more flexibility for the contractor.”

For John Deere, a key technology is SmartGrade, its fully integrated 3D grade control system. The key to SmartGrade is that it is mastless, which means it is more capable of handling the many types of adjustments that can be made in motor graders, Goedert says.

“Instead of having a mast out on the moldboard with the antenna attached to it, we chose to mount the antennas to the top

of the cab,” he explains. “They can lean the front tires, they can side shift the circle, side shift the blade, pitch the blade – there are a lot of different functions, and SmartGrade allows them to maintain accuracy while putting that machine in any position they would like.”

SmartGrade is also capable of using multiple location technologies depending on job site needs. While GPS is very common, graders work on a lot of different sites that may call for something else. SmartGrade can tie in with systems using LPS (local positioning systems) and robotic total stations. It is also compatible with Topcon’s Millimeter GPS, producing very tight tolerances. Sensors for those systems are attached to the cab as well.

SmartGrade has several levels of automation depending on customers’ needs. It can run from simple grade indication on the in-cab monitor mounted directly in front of the operator to

automatic operations handling blade elevation and side shift when needed.

When SmartGrade was developed, Deere incorporated sensors into key hydraulic cylinders on its graders. Those sensors allow for precise knowledge of where the blade’s cutting edge is at all times, important for contractors with tight specs. They have also allowed for the integration of more automation – additional ways to make grading easier for operators.

AUTOMATED TASKS AID OPERATORS OF ALL SKILL LEVELS

Motor graders can be a complex piece of equipment, so they are often given to the most skilled operator on staff. In today’s labour market there may not be an operator with that high level of experience available. Automation helps address those

challenges by reducing the complexity and handling repetitive tasks as needed.

“When we think about automation features . . . a lot of them are centred around making the motor grader easier to operate, and solving that inexperienced operator challenge,” Goedert says.

Goedert points to six automation tools on John Deere graders that help improve efficiency while reducing potential damage and downtime. One, machine damage avoidance, keeps the moldboard from making contact with areas of the grader –steps, tires, and other parts of the machine can be damaged this way. Hydraulic cylinder movement is limited to reduce the likelihood of these potentially costly impacts.

Blade flip is another example where an action the operator may need to take frequently can be automated for efficiency. This is often used when windrowing material; if the operator

needs to turn 180 degrees and return along a path, they need to manually rotate the blade for every pass. Blade flip automatically mirrors the blade position, saving time.

A similar tool is Auto Pass, which allows the operator to hit a button at the end of the pass that lifts the blade, sheds material, and performs a mirrored rotation in preparation for the next pass. Then, when the operator is ready to go, they can press a button and the grader automatically lowers its blade to the point it was at previously. If SmartGrade is installed, another press enables the automation, integrating multiple functions into one button.

PREMIUM CIRCLE PAIRS WITH SMARTGRADE TO ADD PRECISION

Outside of software and tools, John Deere has used some physical design to ensure precision, cut down maintenance, and improve uptime. The most noticeable can be found under the grader, where an optional premium circle improves on the conventional circle and its wear parts.

“There are two benefits to [the premium circle]: it reduces, significantly, the maintenance cost of the machine, but it also improves accuracy,” Goedert says.

A traditional circle includes wear inserts that have to be constantly adjusted to ensure there is no play in the circle when it meets the ground. If the circle raises due to that wear, accuracy is reduced. The premium circle is a sealed bearing and pinion system that cuts out the need for wear parts – instead, maintenance is a greasing that needs to be done every 500 hours. That reduces downtime and overall maintenance costs.

“In my opinion there’s really no comparison – I can’t think

of anywhere you wouldn’t want a premium circle on a motor grader, whether it’s government or a contractor. There’s a lot of benefit in just the serviceability – you don’t have to down the machine to service it,” Goedert notes.

A final area of technology that sometimes is overlooked, Goedert feels, is telematics. Equipment managers can make use of telematics for maintenance scheduling, machine tracking, and other tasks. At the same time, dealers and John Deere have expanded how they use telematics to protect equipment.

“We have dedicated machine monitoring employees at the dealerships that look for diagnostic trouble codes and try to fix machines before the owner might even have a clue that anything’s wrong with it,” says Goedert. “We have a group inside Deere that is solely dedicated to being proactive and fixing machines before there is an issue – that’s one way that we are using technology.” HEG

Opening Plenary Panel

TILTROTATOR AND GRADE CONTROL POPULARITY GROW ON MINI EXCAVATORS

SIZE PREFERENCES VARY, BUT TECHNOLOGY AND COMFORT ARE BECOMING MORE IMPORTANT TO CONTRACTORS

Despite their comparatively small stature, mini excavators retain a loyal base of seasoned operators from a variety of industries across Canada. Often used for construction and landscaping projects, their small size makes them more popular for high-traffic work sites, working around other equipment, and they are much easier to transport between projects. Efficiency will always be the name of the game when it comes to compact equipment options, which is why a versatile tool like the mini excavator will remain popular in Canada for years to come.

The demand for mini excavators continues to be highest in Eastern Canada, particularly in Ontario and Quebec as both provinces experience soaring demand for new housing. The development of new housing communities requires tools that can tackle jobs, such as road resurfacing and landscaping, with both speed and precision, putting the multipurpose mini excavator front and centre.

SIZE VARIES, BUT VERSATILITY THROUGH ATTACHMENTS IS POPULAR

Current industry trends in Canada do not point to a particular size of excavator growing more in popularity than other size options. The wide variety of jobs – whether construction, agriculture, commercial, or residential – require excavator equipment of all sizes. While compact equipment might not be able to complete jobs as quickly as larger machines, mini excavators can access places and complete tasks that other machines cannot.

Among mini excavator options, the most popular unit size is three to four metric tons. Equipment options in this range are versatile enough to navigate through a job site with relative ease and can be transported from point A to point B without much

fuss. These units also have digging and lifting capabilities that aren’t too far off from the capabilities of bigger units.

Looking at mini excavator attachments, there continues to be a strong market for popular choices like the auger, hydraulic breaker, plate compactor, and tilt ditching bucket. Tiltrotators – couplers that will rotate a bucket 360 degrees and tilt at the same time – have become more popular, underlining the importance of versatility to compact mini excavators.

LABOUR TRENDS DRIVE TECHNOLOGY FEATURES

It is becoming increasingly difficult for many businesses to find the labour required following the unintended economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. That is why technology features are becoming a major selling point for buyers looking for an efficient tool to get the job done. Grade control features, for example, are becoming more popular in the mini excavator market, with the grading indicator system the most in-demand in Canada. The system will beep once the operator hits their grade, keeping the operator in full control. There are also other grading systems that won’t allow the operator to go past the grade that was pre-set. These systems lessen the need for a person on the job site who has to physically check grade for the operator.

Advanced digital displays are making it easier for operators to monitor the machine’s capabilities and solve more problems on the go. Owners and operators can toggle through attachment settings, switch languages, create operator profiles, and set up keyless start. Some mini excavator displays also have touchscreen options and Bluetooth for additional ease of use.

CAMERAS, SAFETY, AND COMFORT

ing joystick adjustment options to ensure seating comfort. A popular option that more mini excavator operators are gravitating toward is an air ride seat, which ensures smoother travel and longer term comfort. Designs have been tweaked in recent years to maximize efficiency in operation, while the suspension elements have been updated for a more stable experience. These upgrades mean that the seats will be more durable over time and the operator will have more optimal performance over the life of the equipment.

There should also be further improvement to HVAC systems in 2023 given the importance of temperature control for optimal operator performance. Operators can keep the cab at a steady climate no matter what erratic weather they’re facing and feel comfortable in the cab while on the job.

One of the more common, yet underrated, problems with a mini excavator is excessive vibration during operation. Recent upgrades to track roller systems and machine design have helped reduce the amount of vibration that the operator experiences, potentially making a job a little more manageable and a little less painful.

DIESEL STILL KEY TO POWER, BUT ELECTRIC ON THE RISE

Mini excavators with a diesel engine have been an industry staple since the equipment concept was first developed, and to this day remains the preferred choice of operators. However, a growing number of operators are looking into electric power options on mini excavators, a trend that will grow throughout 2023 as the world shifts toward a carbon neutral mindset; this isn’t strictly limited to electric power sources, but also hydrogen and hybrid systems for equipment.

Choosing your next excavator really depends on the type

Yanmar Compact Equipment’s new generation of its zero-tail-swing ViO17 and ViO25 mini excavators are upgraded for improved operator comfort, convenience, and ease of use. The ViO17-1E is best suited for residen tial work, landscaping, and small general construction projects. The ViO25-6B also excels in those applications but brings additional power and size for benefits in building maintenance projects, irriga tion, plumbing pipeline, and more.

EXCAVATORS WITH A LIGHT FOOTPRINT

The ViO17-1E offers a 4,023-pound op erating weight and 14.5-hp engine while the ViO25-6B features a 5,908-pound op erating weight and 20.4-hp engine. Both models feature a light footprint for min imized damage to soft, delicate surfaces in landscaping, residential, and sculpting applications. The models have dig depths of 7 feet 7 inches for the ViO17-1E and 10 feet for the ViO25-6B.

As an added benefit, the ViO17-1E has a retractable undercarriage that allows operators to hydraulically extend and retract the track width. This makes it

even easier for the machine to access narrow job sites.

NEW EFFICIENCYFOCUSED FEATURES

New features include standard PTO quick-connect fittings that allow for easier hookup or switching between attachments, and an upgraded LED boom light integrated into the boom. Additionally, the ViO17-1E and ViO25-6B have been upgraded to a four-point tie system for easier loading and unloading, as well as reliable stability during transport.

These excavators have a new seat, an ergonomic throttle, and better display positions for easy access. Updated positioning for displays and switches as well as control position improve ergonomics to make operating a ViO17-1E and ViO256B simpler.

The ViO25-6B also includes ECO Mode, Auto-Decel Mode, and auto shift 2-speed travel as standard features.

SCREENING PROBLEMS TO WATCH OUT FOR AND HOW TO ADDRESS THEM

All mining and aggregates operations have the same ultimate goal for their processing equipment: to improve the cost per ton. This is often accomplished by fixing or preventing equipment issues, and by optimizing performance. The screening process, in particular, is one of the most significant parts a producer should pay attention to.

Understanding what screening problems to look for and how to fix them can deliver a positive ripple effect throughout the material separation process. The combination of a proactive maintenance plan and using high-performance screen media makes remedying issues and improving efficiency even easier.

REDUCE COST FACTORS TIED TO PERFORMANCE ISSUES

Plant managers must address how much can be produced with a given set of screens and by reducing cost factors tied to poor performance such as machine downtime or screen media change-outs.

First, producers should work with an expert to conduct a screening performance assessment to see the complete picture of the operation. This should include an evaluation of the process and any direct screen media issues, but also the screen set-up, the machine condition, and how it affects performance. Use a vibration analysis tool to look for abnormalities that may need to be addressed and can’t be easily seen with the human eye. Also, listen to the deck while it is running to reveal things like loose media, clamp bars, or broken wires. Listen for abnormalities or metallic sounds.

Next, producers should examine the crusher feed belt coming off the screen box to identify issues that could lead to a bottleneck. Improving screening efficiency directly in front of this point has effects throughout the entire operation in both directions.

A visual check or a belt cut of the crusher feed belt is often enough to see if there is saleable rock that is being sent to the crusher as carryover because the deck capacity is exceeded. This is caused by blinding, pegging, poor open area, non-ideal vibration set-up, or the wrong screen media set-up.

Lastly, look at the scrap pile – also known as the boneyard – of used screen media. Inspecting the underside of the spent screens is an effective way to diagnose installation challenges. Look for black markings on the underside of the screen media that show the panels have moved and rubbed against machine supports, meaning they weren’t fixed in place like they should have been. This primarily causes wear but can also lead to blinding, pegging, and inefficiency. Signs of blinding, pegging, or breakage in the used screen media pile are also a good way to quickly identify which machines and decks need attention.

EFFICIENT SCREENING LESSENS THE LOAD ON THE CRUSHER

“Better screening is free crushing” is a statement sometimes heard in the industry. There are many ways to interpret the saying, but it boils down to how an efficient screen box lessens the load on a crusher by sizing material correctly.

Many screening issues can be addressed with a change in screen media. From traditional woven wire to polyurethane to high-performance screen media, there is no shortage of different styles of screens. The choices can seem daunting; often

Understanding what screening problems to look for and how to fix them can deliver a positive ripple effect throughout the material separation process.

High-vibration screen media is one such option. This advanced screen media is made up of independent wires bonded with polyurethane strips. The wires vibrate independently to add to a screen box’s existing vibration, speeding up material separation and passing.

Screen media options that incorporate this design permit an increased screening action which helps to spread the material over the entire screen’s surface area on all decks, but most importantly accelerates the stratification process. This effect causes rocks of different sizes to separate, with fine material sinking toward the screen surface and bigger rocks rising to the top of the material bed. Faster stratification increases the capacity of the deck and allows for a cleaner cut.

The movement of wires helps to virtually eliminate near-size pegging on the top decks as well as fine material

blinding and clogging on the bottom decks, resulting in a higher-quality end product.

In addition to considering a change of screen media, ensure tensioned screens are installed properly and that surrounding equipment is operating correctly. Once the process is running productively and smoothly, operations should do what they can to maintain that performance. Develop a preventive maintenance plan that includes vibration analysis tests at regular intervals to identify changes that may point to problems.

Remember that screen media will wear out over time, but it should not have to be replaced because it is broken, pegged, or blinded. Work with a dealer or screen media manufacturer to determine the best screen media options for your application, and create a proactive maintenance plan to maintain optimum results.

LARS BRÄUNLING is director of product technology with MAJOR.

MILLING MACHINES DESIGNED FOR TOUGH JOBS, LOWER EMISSIONS, AND FUEL SAVINGS

Milling machines are a big part of today’s road repair and replacement work. These machines are becoming more technologically advanced, and manufacturers are keeping the need for sustainability in mind as they introduce new cold planers onto the market. Improved weight balance, more efficient engines, tuning to cut fuel use, compact designs for smoother curves, and other approaches are all helping roadbuilding contractors save money and time.

CATERPILLAR REDUCES EMISSIONS

Five models of half-lane cold planers from Caterpillar have been updated to provide performance for productive milling. The PM620 and PM622 are powered by Cat’s C18 engine, generating 630 hp, while the PM820, PM822, and PM825 are heavier and powered by a twin-turbo version that produces 800 hp. Both engines use a high-capacity cooling system that ensures they work at the right temperature for optimal fuel efficiency, reducing emissions in the process.

Cat’s System K rotors are durable and available in a range of spacings. Kicker paddles are reversible for extended life, and a tapered dual retention toolholder design cuts down replacement time by up to 50 percent.

WIRTGEN ADDS ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY ENGINES

Reduced fuel burn is one characteristic of Wirtgen’s F-Series compact milling machines. A new diesel engine from John Deere provides the heart of the compact units, generating 355 hp and providing precisely tuned torque to meet the needs of milling work. These machines use significantly less fuel, Wirtgen says, even at high productivity while milling at the 330 mm maximum depth.

The F-Series is available in three widths: 1.0, 1.2, and 1.3 metres (39, 47, and 51 inches). Wirtgen has brought features from its larger mills to these compact machines, including Mill Assist, which helps reduce fuel and water use as well as pick wear. The system automatically controls engine speed and offers a wide range of usable milling drum speeds. Lower speeds reduce fuel consumption and pick wear, while higher speeds allow for an optimal wear pattern. Operators can choose from one of three operating strategies: ECO, performanceoptimized, or milling pattern quality.

BOMAG LIGHTENS UP

ITS LARGE PLANER

A lighter and more compact design makes BOMAG’s BM 2200/65 large planer more maneuverable compared to previous models. A 58-inch milling radius improves efficiency when handling tight-radius applications. Powered by a 630-hp engine, the BM 2200/65 can run at three different speeds.

BOMAG’s Easy Cut technology regulates the height of the rear drive to ensure it follows the front to its set depth. Easy Level displays grade and slope settings on the 7-inch display which allows for quick and easy changes.

MODELS

WIDTHS

Powered by a Cummins engine, the RX-600 runs at 675 hp, features a maximum cut depth of 13 inches, and a maximum cut width of 86 inches. The RX-700 is powered by a Cat C18 engine generating 800 hp. It can cut a maximum depth of 14 inches and a width of 126 inches. The RX-900 features a 1,050-hp Cat C27 engine. It also has a 14-inch cut depth and 150-inch cut width.

PICK THE RIGHT TRUCK BODY TO OPTIMIZE CARRYING CAPACITY

Trucks run around the clock every day of the year in quarries, so it’s nearly impossible to pull the nose from the grindstone long enough to provide necessary thorough analysis to optimize their operation. Fortunately, picking the right truck body that is engineered for efficient and profitable aggregate hauling can be made easy.

It might appear that truck bodies don’t differ much from one design to another, but take a moment to speak with an operator about the pain points in his or her day and it will be clear that not all bodies are created equal. Each day, operators load and unload countless amounts of aggregate in relatively similar-looking trucks. Company goals might all be the same –increase payload, decrease downtime, and get the best lifespan from the truck – but the outcome in each quarry depends on the equipment used.

High-performance, aggregate-specific truck bodies address three major challenges in the aggregate industry. First, they’re engineered for minimal maintenance and a long lifespan, creating the best possible return on investment. Second, they withstand highly abrasive material while minimizing carryback and maintenance. And third, they maximize the truck’s full capacity to increase potential profit.

THE RIGHT TRUCK BODY OPTIMIZES HAULING

Trucks have a finite carrying capacity – part of which is the machine weight. When the equipment is perfectly designed, the hauled aggregate consumes the rest of the capacity limit.

High-performance body manufacturers maximize truck-hauling capacity and provide the highest possible payload by considering factors such as height and width restrictions as well as loading equipment. For example, bodies are wider to match up with the loading equipment shovel or bucket, allowing for a large loading target and a quick load rate. Some manufacturers also examine the natural angles of repose, or how materials lay, to maximize payload capacity and reduce material spillage.

Engineers focus on a proprietary process for high-performance bodies that removes unnecessary steel. By doing so, additional features, such as greater width and a more substantial floor bolster system, don’t weigh bodies down. Removing any

unnecessary weight significantly increases hauling productivity and contributes to a fully utilized capacity. Customizing bodies also aids in productivity by ensuring minimal maintenance and carryback.

CUT THE CARRYBACK

In an industry where trucks run around the clock 365 days of the year, productivity is the last thing that should be sacrificed. To ensure job productivity stays high, bodies that can handle highly abrasive, sticky material while minimizing carryback become a huge benefit.

Innovative engineering and construction continue with the load-containing portion of high-performance aggregate bodies. Often, the aggregate-and-soil-mixed payload becomes sticky and bridges across the front of bodies, decreasing productivity by eating away at the total capacity until bodies are cleaned. However, uniquely designed bodies repel moisture. Manufacturers design key parts of the bodies, specifically in areas where carryback traditionally begins, reducing the likelihood that material will build up.

Body-side top rails reinforce sides and eliminate the potential for material to build up within the sidewalls, which can impact the truck’s overall carrying capacity. The rails are half sections of rounded pipe that tie the inside steel plate to the outside plate at the top and cover the gap between them.

Tapering bodies can also decrease wear and carryback on the sides when appropriate for the application. When bodies are narrower at the front than the back, materials release immediately when dumped and slide straight out without scraping

the sides, which virtually eliminates the potential for weighted carryback. This innovative design also allows the extra weight capacity to reinforce other areas of the truck bodies that generally receive the most wear.

PREVENT TRUCK BODY DAMAGE

Minimizing servicing downtime is key to increasing productivity. Customizing high-performance bodies to the quarry’s specifications increases loading safety and greatly reduces the potential for loading damage by ensuring width is correctly paired with the loading tool. This provides the lowest possible loading height and allows the loading tool to get closer to the floor of bodies, nearly eliminating the chances that loading equipment will damage the sides. The wide bodies, when paired with a tailgate, also provide the truck operator with well-balanced weight distribution. Improved weight distribution benefits the life of truck bodies and tires by eliminating the potential for wearing on specific areas. With the weight distributed equally across all of the tires, it reduces the potential for uneven wear.

Taking berm height into consideration, engineers design the truck bodies so they do not fall below the centre of the wheels, or the height of the berm, at full dump. This ensures ample clearance and helps eliminate tail damage that might occur when dumping into a pile.

EXTEND TRUCK BODY LIFE

Bolsters and frame rails provide maximum reinforcement to the sides and floors of bodies. Traditional bodies simply butt-

weld bolsters to frame rails, making them vulnerable to wear and tear due to less than optimal structural integrity. Custom bodies with intersecting bolsters and frame rails offer superior support that won’t buckle under the immense weight of quarried materials, keeping the payload at maximum capacity.

This enhanced design couples with some of the strongest steel in the world to significantly extend the life of bodies. Within high-performance bodies, steel is used only where it’s needed – at the greatest load containing areas. Even in intense environments, after hauling hundreds of thousands of tons to and from quarries, the steel doesn’t show signs of wearing thin. In fact, constructing bodies in such a fashion typically increases the life of the trucks by 25 to 30 percent.

PURPOSE-DRIVEN DESIGN

Evaluating processes and making changes that potentially boost success rates, improve efficiency, and reduce costs should be first on the list of any operation – especially those that run around the clock. In the case of quarry operations, custom, durable machines increase productivity rates and decrease maintenance downtime and carryback potential, all while increasing a truck’s life.

Using the right equipment and evaluating daily operations makes achieving efficient operations easy. Though it may seem like a lengthy process, the return on investment is worth it in the long haul.

JOSH SWANK is vice president of sales and marketing with Philippi-Hagenbuch, Inc.

GMC is joining the electric pickup market with its first Sierra EV for the 2024 model year, targeting buyers looking for functionality along with high-end comfort in their trucks. For buyers who need heavier hauling and more towing power, the 2024 Sierra Heavy Duty lineup has been released with premium options as well as more work-focused versions.

HEAVY-DUTY LINE ADDS TOP-TIER MODELS

The 2024 Sierra HD lineup includes 2500HD and 3500HD models in Regular Cab, Extended Cab, and Crew Cab configurations, with dual-rear-wheel models available on the 3500HD. Available trims include Pro, SLE, SLT, AT4, Denali, and Denali Ultimate, with the AT4X trim for off-road enthusiasts coming later in 2023.

This is the first time GMC has offered the Denali Ultimate in the Sierra Heavy Duty range – it delivers turbocharged pulling power and technology features that include trailering assistance.

The optional enhanced 6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel, paired with the 10-speed Allison transmission, now delivers 470 hp (at 2,800 rpm) and 975 lb.-ft. (at 1,600 rpm), offering more power across the entire operating speed range. Specifically, low-end torque production increases up to 25 percent, compared to the current model, for improved towing performance.

Additional changes and upgrades are designed to produce more efficient combustion and enhance overall performance. This latest iteration of the Duramax engines adds additional refinements including a more efficient turbocharger, increased power and torque, and improved engine braking.

Sierra HD’s standard 6.6-litre gas engine has been paired with the Allison 10-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous six-speed automatic, allowing the gas engine to hold closer to its peak power of 401 hp and 464 lb.-ft. of torque for longer periods.

ADVANCED TRAILERING ASSIST AIDS IN HITCHING AND TOWING

The ProGrade Trailering System includes a suite of optional intelligent trailering assistance technologies designed to help streamline the hitching and towing process. This includes tools like an enhanced transparent trailer view option that lets the driver see through the trailer virtually, available side blind zone alerts, warnings if the vehicle’s GCWR is reached or exceeded, adaptive cruise control with trailering options, and more.

Safety is also improved with options that provide up to 14 camera views that provide vision to the hitch, truck bed, rear sides, and elsewhere.

In the cabin, optional features include the new 13.4-inch diagonal tablet-style touchscreen which offers a user-friendly, customizable experience. A multicolour, 15-inch-diagonal head-up display, and a new 12.3-inch-diagonal digital instrument cluster can also be selected.

The first ever Sierra HD Denali Ultimate is the most technologically advanced Sierra HD yet, according to GMC. It includes enhancements to the overall design and premium interior features plus more standard technologies. Owners can also select turbocharged performance with the available 6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel and Allison 10-speed transmission.

The Denali Ultimate is distinguished by an exterior featuring

a unique grille and GMC badging, 20-inch Ultra-bright machined aluminum wheels with high gloss black accents, and unique fender badging. Denali Ultimate will include the six-way MultiPro Tailgate with a standard Kicker audio system. Power assist steps also come standard.

BATTERY-ELECTRIC SIERRA BASED ON GM ULTIUM PLATFORM

The first battery-electric GMC Sierra will be available to American buyers in the 2024 model year when the Sierra EV goes on sale. Canadians, however, will not be able to purchase the truck immediately – it will be available north of the border in 2025. At that time, the Sierra EV, built on GM’s Ultium platform, will be available in three trim choices: the Denali Edition 1, AT4, and Elevation.

vehicle construction, the battery pack is designed into the chassis of the Sierra EV to help lower the truck’s centre of gravity and enhance ride comfort, while also adding strength and durability to the pickup overall. Front and rear drive units push an estimated 754 hp and 785 lb.-ft. of torque to the wheels via an e4WD system in Max Power mode. GMC says the truck will be able to go an estimated 400 miles on a full charge.

Power Station Pro on the Sierra EV Denali Edition 1 model offers a mobile power source option. The Ultium Power Bar accessory allows for 10.2 kW of offboard power to be accessed through 10 outlets, providing juice for power tools and other accessories as needed. Other equipment will be available to allow use of the Sierra EV for powering a home when needed.

The 2024 model will be fitted with a 19.2 kW onboard AC charging module for home and public charging. It also has 800V DC public fast charging capability of up to 350 kW, which can add approximately 100 miles of range in 10 minutes.

Technology features in the Sierra EV include a hands-free start system, large high-resolution display screens including GMC’s first portrait-oriented touchscreen system, up to 14 available camera views, and GM’s Super Cruise to allow hands-free driver assistance on more than 400,000 miles of compatible roads in Canada and the U.S.

Customizable drive modes will allow adjustments to steering, suspension, and other variables as needed. Four-wheel steer allows for smaller turning circles and better maneuverability, and the GMC-exclusive CrabWalk diagonal-drive feature will be available at low speeds.

Performance-wise, GMC says the 2024 Sierra EV Denali Edition 1 will have up to 9,500 pounds of trailering capacity and up to 1,300 pounds of payload capacity.

This is the first time GMC has offered the Denali Ultimate in the Sierra Heavy Duty range – it delivers turbocharged pulling power and technology features that include trailering assistance.

BOOM LIFTS FOR WORK AT HEIGHT

1boom lifts, including the X770AJ, allow operators to go more places around the job site thanks to their lowweight design and non-marking tracks, which are key for many indoor and outdoor jobs. Their compact footprint allows users to work in tight spaces, and the retractable non-marking tracks, featuring JLG’s platform disconnect system, allow for easy maneuvering through doorways. JLG’s X770AJ delivers 500 pounds of platform capacity, 84 feet of working height, and 43 feet of outreach. It features self-levelling outriggers and a rotating platform.

2mobile elevating work platform is a compact, all-terrain aerial lift with an articulated arm, 360-degree continuous rotation, a platform working height of 59 feet 11 inches, and a maximum outreach of 39 feet 4 inches. The platform supports up to two people (or 500 pounds), and the machine works as well on uneven/ off-road sites as it does on flat surfaces with four-wheel drive and 17 inches of ground clearance. The ATJ 60 also features a self-diagnostic panel at ground level for easy access, and the EasyManager telematics system delivers information on machine location, maintenance schedules, and service warnings.

GENIE S-60 FE

3The hybrid S-60 FE and electric S-60 DC booms are lightweight, four-wheel drive electrified telescopic boom lifts that fit in the 60-foot (18 m) height class. With a working height of 65.1 feet (20 m) and a 61 feet 2 inches (18.60 m) platform height, the S-60 FE and S-60 DC rough-terrain electric boom lifts deliver clean, quiet performance. The hybrid S-60 FE offers all the performance of a 4x4 diesel machine but also delivers the benefits of an electric boom. It can be used indoors and outdoors and work more than one week on a single tank of fuel. Both the S-60 DC and the S-60 FE (when run in full electric mode) deliver a full day’s work on a single charge.

4Skyjack’s 40- and 60foot telescopic and articulating booms have capacities up to 1,000 pounds (454 kg) and have three occupant capability up to full height. The nomenclature of these machines features a “+” to identify the increased machine capacity. Along with the increased capacities and personnel ratings, + models also feature control system changes which better align with ELEVATE, Skyjack’s telematics solution. Additional Skyjack boom features include:

EASYDRIVE, direction sensing drive and steer controls regardless of turret position over chassis; AXLDRIVE, an axle-based drive system for excellent rough-terrain traction; SKYCODED control system; SKYRISER, true vertical rise without drifting; SPEEDYREACH, the lowering of the fly boom to ground level for re-stocking without lowering the riser apply on the SJ63 and SJ85 articulating booms.

SAFETY TIPS

FOR TRANSPORTING A BOOM LIFT OR TRAILER-MOUNTED BOOM

From trailer-mounted boom lifts to the highest-reaching super booms, before work can begin the equipment needs transportation to the job site. And, while models and equipment types will vary in their requirements and procedures, two important safety rules apply across models and equipment types:

1) Read the Operator’s Manual, which provides step-by-step instructions to ensure the boom is loaded safely and efficiently; and

2) When loading and unloading equipment, the transport vehicle should be parked on a firm surface and secured to prevent it from rolling.

With those first two steps done, it’s time to prepare your equipment for transport.

When transporting a boom lift, make sure that platforms, jibs, booms, and axles are fully lowered and/or retracted and in transport position. The Operator’s Manual recommends the correct “transport position” for the specific model you’re loading. Whenever possible, the boom should be transported with the platform floor horizontal to the transport trailer bed. Select booms and trailer combinations do not accommodate this orientation due to length. In this case, follow the Operator’s Manual for positioning and securing the platform.

over the entire machine for any loose or unsecured items. Always use a turntable rotation lock pin, checking to make sure the key switch is in the “off” position, and then remove the key before beginning transport.

To secure the platform, appropriate restraints based on weight and local regulations should be placed parallel to the machine’s restraint guides, taking care that you don’t use too much downward force to secure them. Put some sort of force-absorbing material such as foam, rubber, or wood opposite the restraints to reduce any movement of the restraint during transport. The chassis of the boom also must be secured to the transportation platform using a minimum of six chains. Make sure the chains have ample load capacity and adjust the rigging to prevent any damage to the chains or the lift. For a diagram, refer to the Transport and Lifting Instructions in the Operator’s Manual.

Because they can be towed behind a pickup or SUV, trailer-mounted boom lifts can be a productive and practical option for the right job site. Again, Steps 1 and 2 in the safety rules mentioned at the beginning of this article apply. Additionally, it’s important to check the vehicle’s towing capacity because the weight of trailer-mounted booms can fluctuate based on the model and options. Once the necessary towing capacity is confirmed, safety chains and brake cables need to be attached to the vehicle. Note that the chains should cross under the hitch.

Best driving practices when towing equipment include keeping a safe distance from the vehicles ahead, slowing down for downgrades, curves, or hazardous road conditions, and avoiding sudden movements. Additionally, a maximum towing speed of 60 mph (97 km/h) should be observed.

And finally, when loading or unloading any equipment from a transport vehicle on a public road, take extra measures, including the use of warning cones, hazard tape, signs, and flag personnel. These options can help you safely unload the transport trailer and prevent harm to worksite personnel as well as drivers on the road.

Additionally, watch out for hazards during loading, including tip-over hazards, collision hazards resulting from limited sight distance and/or blind spots, and overhead hazards such as power lines. Only qualified aerial lift operators should move the machine on or off the transport truck. Once the boom is loaded, look SIMONE MANCI is an applications engineer at Genie.

Leads the industry in innovation, manufacturing a wide variety of custom hauling solutions for the specialized transport industry. We specialize in designing custom solutions for hauling your unique loads.

A LONG WAY TOGETHER

WHEREVER YOU ARE, BKT IS WITH YOU

No matter how challenging your needs, BKT is with you offering a wide range of OTR tires specifically designed for the toughest operating conditions: from mining to construction sites.

Sturdy and resistant, reliable and safe, able to combine comfort and high performance.

BKT is with you, even when work gets tough.

For info:

Western Canada 604-701-9098

Eastern Canada 514-792-9220

P Paul Basiuk 780-991-4606

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GOMACO offers the full range of concrete slipform pavers, curb and gutter machines, trimmers, placer/spreaders, texture/cure machines and bridge/canal finishing equipment. GOMACO equipment features our exclusive and proprietary G+® control system, created in-house by our software engineers from the wants and needs of contractors paving in the field. At the heart of GOMACO equipment is our passion for concrete and our commitment to our customers. We look forward to visiting with you about your upcoming paving projects and your concrete paving equipment needs. Our worldwide distributor network and our corporate team always stand ready to serve and assist you.