New home for expanding event

The Plantworx Construction Machinery Exhibition hosted by the United Kingdom’s CEA (Construction Equipment Association) is almost upon us.

The fourth biennial working construction event is taking place at its new home at the East of England Arena in Peterborough from June 11 to 13. Along with its complementary event, the Railworx rail-related civil engineering show, it will benefit from 20% more exhibition space than two years ago and spans more than 140,000 sq m (1.5 million sq ft).

The event is set for a record 450 exhibitors – one-third of whom are exhibiting at Planworx for the first time.

“After Bauma, Plantworx will be the first opportunity to see new products from many of the major OEMs,” said CEA chief executive RNob Oliver.

“With the advent of Stage V engine requirements – and more entrants into the electric-powered arena – Plantworx 2019 promises to be the best yet to see new machines.”

Here are some of the companies who will be taking part.

Avant Tecno

Avant says its e6 is the first electric compact loader on the market with a lithium-ion battery. Avant has developed the state-of-the-art battery and battery management together with Valmet Automotive. The company believes that lithium-ion battery technology provides significantly better performance compared to lead-acid batteries. In light use, a lithium battery performance is around 30% better than lead-acid batteries, while in heavy use operating time is up to three times longer.

Bobcat

Bobcat has launched a fully electric, zero-emission mini-excavator in the 1 t class, the new E10e. With a transportation width of just 72 cm (28 in), the compact, zero tail swing machine passes easily through standard doors and lifts, making it ideal for indoor demolition work. This is combined with no emissions and low noise.

BPH Attachments

Featuring a patented replaceable screening net system, the Prodem PSB-R range is the ultimate in flexibility, durability and productivity for screening material on demolition, construction, recycling and landfill sites. The PSB-R Rotary Screening Bucket is said to be ideal for material selection, aggregate recovery, waste separation, filling containment cages, covering pipelines and more. It is also available in a wheeled loader version and is suitable for use on excavators weighing from 2.5 to 75 t.

Brokk UK

The company is returning to Plantworx with its biggest ever line up of remote-controlled demolition machines, which are now all fitted with its Smartpower electrical system. Brokk’s range of Darda hand held splitters, and the group’s latest acquisition hydrodemolition company Aquajet, with the new Ergo system. Ecovolve electric dumpers will

also be on show.

Brendon Powerwashers

On show will be the Dustec DT400 water-powered dust and odour suppression solution, which works as an attachment to the company’s range of powerwashers. It operates by using the water to drive a fan, which generates the air flow needed to help launch fine water droplets into the atmosphere. The water is then returned to the powerwasher to be recycled or pumped to waste, ensuring a controlled amount of water is delivered for suppression.

Caterpillar

Finning will be showcasing the new range of Next-Generation Caterpillar mini-excavators at Plantworx, giving customers the chance to experience the huge range of features that make operating easier and more efficient. The 11 new models in the Cat mini hydraulic excavator line up start at 1.5 t and stretches up to Caterpillar’s first ever 10 t excavator.

Digbits

The Digbits Grading Beam is a versatile excavator attachment to enable a fast but precise level finish, especially across a large surface area. The company says the grading beam is fast becoming the more preferred option over a standard grading bucket, and in comparison levelling can be carried out in one wider pass, saving valuable time.

GKD Technologies

GKD has developed a new, simplified safety system designed to support its range of motion safety indicators. The company has adapted its algorithms to provide a height and slew system combined into one slim lightweight display. The award-winning Sensor Height & Slew is a fully adaptable system which can be configured to control only one function; height or slew or both. There are further options to stop the machine on reaching limits as well as a travel inhibit feature.

Goldhofer

Goldhofer has developed a new semitrailer, the Arcus PK, with a new steering system. This product is the first low loader semitrailer with friction-steered pendular axles. This is said to result in the advantage of better steering performance and time savings by not needing any adjustments to the steering system before starting the transport.

Hidromek

Hidromek showing the new HMK 145 LC SR excavator, and says it is designed to work with power and precision in tight spaces, reducing the risk of damage and improving safety in all fields and conditions. The Opera Control System is used to facilitate the easy use of the machine.

Hyundai Construction Equipment

The company is coming to Plantworx with a range of machines including examples from the new A range of machines. Taking centre stage will be the HX220A L (Stage V) crawler excavator, which includes Auto Safety Lock and Eco Guidance and MG/MC. Hyundai will also have a demonstration area where machines will be in action.

JCB

JCB has launched three new 13-16 t X Series excavators built for ground working specialists and these models will be at Plantworx this year. The 131X, 140X and 150X models boast the JCB X Series hallmarks of robust durable design, increased productivity and improved operator comfort and ease of use. Key features include a wider operator cab for all-day comfort, in cab noise reductions of up to 68%, modern styling with durable strike points to reduce total ownership cost and increased diameter high-flow pipework to boost efficiency. The company says the two larger models also deliver a 6% improvement in tonnes per litre productivity.

Kubota

Kubota is showing the new KC70-4e electric mini dumper, which is described as capable of the same high performance of those that run on diesel or petrol but allows users to work where gas emissions or noise levels are restricted. The KC70-4e is equipped with a state-of-the-art lithium battery (48V/200Ah) and has a payload capacity of 700 kg (1,653 lb). With a width of 750 mm (29 in) the company says the product can enter buildings with ease.

Mecalac

In 2018, Mecalac began what it calls a game-changing research and development project to redefine the compaction roller market. The result is the TV1200, a new concept driven exclusively with a joystick on the right-hand side console. In removing the roller’s steering column, Mecalac says it has revolutionised the access and driving style of this type of vehicle.

Messersi

Messersì is showing its new TC120-e full electric remote control tracked dumper. This model is a special version of the well appreciated TC100-d. Features include a tracked fully electric undercarriage, a wide footprint, high stability and excellent driving comfort in all conditions. Electric transmission is powered by two inverters, two electric motors and two planetary gears.

Miller

At Plantworx, Miller will be exclusively launching what it claims to be its safest, most innovative, intelligent quick coupler; the GT Series. The GT Quick coupler features an Intelligent Coupler Connect System as well as a novel ISO compliant locking system, devised to ensure that the widest set of OEM pin pickups are safely attached even if there is a loss of hydraulic power.

Molson Compact Equipment

Molson will be showing machines from its new range of Kobelco compact excavators. From 0.8 to 9 t these machines have a reputation for operational smoothness, low noise levels, reliable construction and low fuel consumption. Visitors to the stand will be able to see four models on the demonstration plot and try their hand out on a range of operator challenges. One of these models for demolition will be the SK75SR-7, which was launched at Bauma in April.

Perkins

Perkins is showing its new 1204J-E44TA engine at Plantworx 2019. The four-cylinder, 4.4-litre engine meets EU Stage V and is available in multiple power ratings from 82 to 150 kW with peak torque reaching 825 Nm. Perkins says the engine is ideal for equipment manufacturers who are looking to downsize, as it offers significant machine productivity benefits with a 15% increase in power, 10% more torque and a 5 to 10% reduction in fuel consumption.

PMX

PMX was conceived as part of James Fisher Prolec’s strategy to improve worksite efficiency and safety and is a pioneering development in construction plant equipment safety and telemetry technology. This innovation combines two widely accepted technologies – excavator hazard mitigation and global geo-positioning systems – to mitigate risk on a sitewide level, while reducing operator workload. According to the company, the resulting system delivers transformative benefits in terms of site safety, operational efficiency and cost reduction, providing peace of mind to asset owners and their construction partners.

Prinoth

Prinoth is introducing its line-up of tracked dumpers to the UK market, the Panther Series. The vehicle showing at Plantworx is the Panther T14R rotating dumper. Prinoth says it offers the highest speed combined to the highest payload of any vehicle in its class, setting new standards in productivity and off-road mobility.

Red Rhino Mini Crushers UK

Red Rhino is introducing the new 5000 Plus and Screener Plus models. The latest Red Rhino 5000 Plus model is fitted with a vibrating feeder tray and has the latest Kubota 05 Series 4-cylinder diesel engine. The Red Rhino Screener Plus is an upgraded model of the current screener which gives extended conveyors which gives increased stockpile capacity.

Rototilt

Rototilt says that a tiltrotator completely changes the way of using an excavator and transforms the excavator to a multi-tool carrier. Until last year, this was only possible for excavators up to 32 t. But with Rototilt’s new model R9, the company says this is now also possible with excavators up to 40 t.

SMT GB

SMT is showing the new Volvo EC60E. This replaces the outgoing EC55C, and the more powerful and productive EC60E crawler excavator from Volvo Construction Equipment is built for comfortable, efficient operation in a variety of applications. This machine is described as offering improved traction, excellent swing force and high lifting capacity to achieve outstanding results, fast. With a compact design, long arm, and optional fixed boom and offset boom, the versatile and powerful EC60E is suitable for a range of applications.

Takeuchi

Back at the show with a new towable mini, Takeuchi’s TB225 2.25 t mini machine is said to be ideal for tool hire companies looking for a towable mini that sits safely within trailer towing limits. The machine was specifically designed to meet the growing demand by rental companies who wanted a heavier Takeuchi within trailer towing weight. Available in both cab and canopy, it powers in just under 2,400 kg (5,291 lb) cab or 2,265 kg (4,993 lb) canopy with plenty of room for extras in the trailer. The machine also comes with an integrated trailer tie-down.

Tobroco-Giant

The company is showing its all-rounder Giant skid steer. Whether working on construction and demolition or maintaining roads and paths, the skid steer loader cleans, sweeps and demolishes. This ultra-compact machine has a minimum width of 76 cm (30 in) built with 350 kg (771 lb) lift capacity. It can be equipped with an integrated diesel particulate filter said to reduce emissions by 90%, and for working with hydraulically driven attachments such as rotary mower, sweeper and hydraulic hammer, the machines can be equipped with a double gear pump.

Tufftruk

Tufftruk is bringing the new Truxtra range of award-winning battery powered mini dumpers. Compact and portable, the Truxtra Bendie allows access into the most environmentally sensitive areas allowing eight hours of continuous operation with zero emissions. The compact battery unit with an in-built charger also provides noise-free operation.

Wacker Neuson

Wacker Neuson has exhibited at all three previous Plantworx shows and this year the DW15e electric wheeled dumper

and the Dual View dumpers will be the main attractions. In addition, the complete zero emission range and the new DW30 3t dumper will be further highlights. Another new addition is the EZ17e fully electric mini excavator, that can run entirely on its battery, but can also be operated while connected to the mains – and it can even be charged while it is in operation.

This article first appeared in the May-June 2019 issue of Demolition & Recycling International. To see the full article, including extra images, or to register to receive the magazine on a regular basis, please visit www.khl.com