Show guide

25 April 2008

Visitors to Intermat will not be disappointed with the quality and quantity of new products on display. New noise and engine emissions laws, and a booming construction equipment market, mean there will be literally hundreds of new machines launched at the show.

Europe's equipment market is a mature one, and most of the new machines on display will be updated versions of existing models. Greater performance, fuel-efficiency and safety are common themes throughout the equipment sector, and manufacturers in all segments, from earthmoving to lifting, are designing their machines with these factors in mind. As a result, construction machines are getting more and more sophisticated, with on-board computers and engine management systems playing a crucial role throughout the industry.

Earthmoving

The earthmoving sector – machines above 10 tonnes operating weight – will see arguably the most significant launches at Intermat. The introduction of the US Tier 3 and European Stage IIIA emissions laws for 130 to 560 kW engines at the start of this year means manufacturers will be launching several brand new series of earthmoving machines at the show featuring new diesel power packs.

This is most apparent in the popular equipment types – crawler excavators and wheeled loaders – although larger graders and dozers are also affected. IC knows of more than 40 new mid- to large-sized earthmoving machines from the major manufacturers, all with Tier 3/Stage IIIA engines, which will be unveiled at the show.

In addition to these, there will doubtless be further models launched at Intermat that we are not yet aware of. Perhaps the most telling thing about our &What's new at a glance' table is not the machines we know about at this stage, but the &gaps' for certain manufacturers that have not yet announced their new models.

Without the new engine emissions laws, it is very unlikely that so many new models in these weight categories would be launched at the same time. Intermat will therefore provide equipment buyers with a fantastic opportunity to compare competing models, and find the machine and deal that suits them best.

Nowhere is this flood of new machines more apparent than with Caterpillar's launches. Intermat will see the company launch eight new D series crawler excavators from 20 to 37.5 tonnes, and five new H series wheeled loaders from 18.5 to 30.5 tonnes all now featuring the company's Tier 3/Stage IIIA-compliant ACERT engines. An in-depth report on all these machines, along with news of Cat's new backhoe loaders and compact excavators, can be found in this month's equipment pages.

In addition to all this &iron', Caterpillar will be showcasing the latest developments in its AccuGrade range of machine control systems. The new products are AccuGrade Cross Slope, Sonic and ATS, which join the existing Laser and GPS systems. Cross slope is a blade control system to accurately establish cross slope elevations. The Sonic system uses ultrasonic measurement for machine control, while ATS – advanced tracking sensor – tracks the position of the blade tips.

Komatsu's three new crawler excavators in the 20 to 30 tonne classes all feature its ECOT3 Tier 3/Stage IIIA compliant engines. Other key features of the dash-8 machines include the Komtrax tracking system and a large-screen, video-capable monitor and a large, quiet cab – noise levels for the PC210-8, for example, are just 69 db(A) at the operator's ear. The 21.4 to 22.9 tonne PC210-8, 24.6 to 26.2 tonne PC240-8 and 29.2 to 30.2 tonne PC290-8 offer the operator two working modes for either heavy or light work.

Features on Komatsu's new D155AX-6 crawler dozer include a new blade and ripper design, powertrain improvements and the move to the company's &K-bogie' undercarriage. The 9.4 m³ capacity Sigma dozer blade has a convex profile, designed for maximum penetration and rolling, while still retaining a flat edge for grading.

Power comes from a 239 kW Tier 3/Stage IIIA Komatsu engine, which combines with an automatic lock-up torque converter to cut fuel consumption by -10%, compared to the previous model. The K-bogie undercarriage system, as used on larger Komatsu dozers, ensures the track rollers are always in contact with track links, helping reduce the impact load on undercarriage components. The company says this delivers +18% more track length in contact with the ground compared to the D155AX-5.

In the wheeled loader segment, high up the weight category, is Komatsu's WA600-6 wheeled loader, with a maximum operating weight of just under 53 tonnes and a 393 kW Tier 3/Stage IIIA engine. Despite its size, the noise level in the cab is just 73 dB(A) – the lowest in this machine class according to the company.

Komatsu says the engine and its own design of torque converter gives the WA600-6 the best rimpull in its class. A variable displacement piston pump for the closed circuit hydraulic system matches the oil flow to the application, which works with the operator-selected engine modes to cut fuel consumption.

Back with excavators, New Holland's E150 &Blade Runner' is an interesting machine that combines the functions of an excavator with a dozer. The short radius 16 tonne tracked machine comprises a 14 tonne upper structure mounted on a 2.59 m wide 20 tonne-class crawler undercarriage. The power, angle, tilt (PAT) blade on the front of the undercarriage has its own hydraulic circuit, which combines with oversized motors to perform to the same levels as a dedicated mid-sized crawler dozer. The blade also has wings on its edges to improve dozing performance, and these can be folded back or removed if not required.

New Holland will also be showing the &Multi Function' version of its E215LC excavator, originally launched at last year's Samoter exhibition, which features a four-piece boom for long-reach applications such as dredging.

Sister company Case's main new product launch is the 69 tonne CX700 crawler excavator, a heavy-duty machine between the existing CX460 and CX800 models and the first Case excavator to use an electronically controlled Tier 3/Stage IIIA engine, a 345 kW Isuzu.

Hitachi will be launching several new crawler excavators at Intermat, with more to follow later in the year. New at the show will be the 25 tonne class Zaxis 250-3, 28 tonne Zaxis 280-3 and 35 tonne Zaxis 350-3, which feature in this month's equipment pages. The company's stand will also include the 52 tonne class Zaxis 520 LCH-3, and 67 tonne Zaxis 670 LCH-3, while the models coming later in the year are the 47 tonne Zaxis 470 LCH-3 and 87 tonne Zaxis 870 LCH-3.

The company's stand will also feature its new ZW series of wheeled loaders, which, like the new excavators, feature Tier 3/Stage IIIA compliant engines. Hitachi's new Total Torque-control System allows the operator to find the right balance between traction force and front speed.

Depending on the job, the setting can be manually adjusted to traction priority, general work or light duty. The machines also feature an automatic transmission with a load-sensing system to improve load-and-carry performance.

Liebherr's latest wheeled excavator is the 11 tonne class A 309 Litronic, the company's smallest model in this range. Power comes from a 63 kW diesel engine, cooled by a thermostacially controlled fan that only runs when needed. The spacious cab features large windows and a fully adjustable seat.

Also new in this range is the 17 tonne A 900 C Litronic, which is powered by a 95 kW engine, again fitted with an &on demand' cooling system. Chassis options include either a dozer blade or two-point outriggers, and the machine can be fitted with a choice of two dipper sticks with a one- or two-piece boom.

Intermat will also see Liebherr launch its new range of &2plus2' wheeled loaders, with the first models now fitted with Tier 3/Stage IIIA compliant engines. The new models are the L 566, L 576 and L 580, replacing the L 564, L 574 and L 580, and it will be the L 576 that Liebherr has on show at Intermat.

While the machines have been restyled, they retain Liebherr's &2plus2' fuel saving drive technology. However, the machines have a new cooling and electronic system, and operators will appreciate the +28% bigger cab, which has a more powerful air conditioning unit.

New safety features include a single-part laminated front windscreen, larger external mirrors and four floodlights. Collision protection has also been included in the rear ballast, and the rear lights have been directly incorporated into the ballast for more protection.

Liebherr's latest dozer is the Series 4 PR 744 Litronic model, which now features a 184 kW engine – +7% more powerful than its predecessor. The 28.2 tonne machine is controlled by the company's fourth-generation Litronic system which, among other things, matches the steering behaviour of the machine to the driving speed, increasing working capacity when cornering. It also automatically turns with counter rotating tracks if a particularly tight manoeuvre is being undertaken

In the crawler excavator sector, Liebherr's latest machine is the 37.8 to 42.7 tonne R 944 C Litronic, which is fitted with a Tier 3/Stage IIIA engine. The machine has repositioned hoses and a restyled engine cover for better visibility, and the large cab has an automatic air conditioning system. The hand controls have been updated with the hydraulic system now being more responsive for faster cycle times. The machine is available with four chassis options.

Doosan Infracore – the construction equipment business created by Doosan Group's acquisition last year of Daewoo

Heavy Industries – will display more than 30 machines at Intermat. The company will show a new range of large Doosan Daewoo DX excavators, comprising five models with weights between 30 and 51 tonnes, powered by the company's own Tier 3/Stage IIIA common rail engines.

Doosan will also launch two new wheeled loaders at the show, the 162 kW, 18 tonne DL300 and the 204 kW, 23 tonne DL400. Again the machines feature Tier 3/Stage IIIA engines – Doosan's own in the DL300 and a Cummins in the DL400 – and both machines are fitted with ZF's Ergo Power transmission. The cabs feature adjustable steering columns and air suspended seats, and provide greater visibility than the previous models.

Some of the newest machines on the Volvo stand will be its G900 motor grader range, which Construction Europe reported on in depth in the December 2005 – January 2006 issue.

Other new additions to the company's range are long boom versions of its L60E, L70E, L90E and L110E wheeled loaders, which mean long boom options are now available for models from the 11 tonne L60E right up to the 50 tonne L330E. As far as the new machines are concerned, this option adds between 0.42 and 0.52 m to the loader's dump height, depending on the model, which is important given the move to high capacity, high-sided on-highway trucks in many parts of the world.

Intermat will also see Volvo celebrate 40 years of manufacturing articulated haulers, which happily coincides with the production of its 50000th machine. This special truck will be on display at the show.

Hyundai will be using Intermat to unveil its new flagship excavator, the 50 tonne R500LC-7A, which slots in above the retained 45 tonne R450LC-7. Powered by a 250 kW Tier 3/Stage IIIA compliant Cummins engine, the machine can be fitted with a 3.2 m³ bucket.

Another top of the range addition is the company's 30 tonne HL780-7A wheeled loader. The loader is powered by the same Cummins engine as Hyundai's new excavator, but it is rated slightly higher at 259 kW. Both machines feature a large, comfortable and quiet cab -7dB(A) quieter than the previous model.

JCB will be presenting two new tracked excavators at the show, the 19 tonne class JS190 Auto and 33 tonne class JS330 Auto. The smaller machine features a 98 kW engine, which the company says gives it +10% more productivity over 18 tonne machines, with +14% more lifting capacity and +5% faster boom cycles.

The larger excavator features a 202 kW Isuzu Tier 3/Stage IIIA engine – +13% more power than its predecessor had. The machine features electronic oil level monitoring, improved cold starting and all the daily maintenance checks can be done from ground level.

Also on show will be the first of a new generation of wheeled excavators in the shape of JCB's 17 tonne class JS175W Auto. A larger counterweight has helped add +14% to the machine's lifting capacity, and cruise control is available as an option.

All of JCB's Auto range features two radiators side-by-side for oil and water cooling. The company says this arrangement is better than putting one cooling pack in front of the other, because it makes it easier to clear out any debris.

There will also be two new wheeled loaders on display, the 426 and 436, which have +13% higher payload capacities than their predecessors. Operators will appreciate the large cabs – +50% bigger than on previous models – and the fact that all daily maintenance checks can be done from ground level.

Road building & compaction

It is not just earthmoving equipment that is affected by the new Tier 3/Stage IIIA engine legislation. The laws apply to any construction equipment, so this year's requirements for 130 to 560 kW mean a lot of new large road building machines are being launched at Intermat. There are also many smaller machines coming onto the market at the moment, and many of these will be seen for the first time at the show.

In the paver segment, Ingersoll Rand will be introducing the Titan 7820 at Intermat, a 17.5 tonne machine that can cover widths up to 10 m. Power comes from a Tier 3/Stage IIIA compliant 170 kW Deutz engine, and the machine also features the latest version of Ingersoll Rand's Electronic Paver Management (EPM) II control system.

Operators will appreciate the clear, logical and intuitive layout of the EPM II control panel and the straightforward menu structure. This all combines to make controlling and steering the paver simpler than ever, and helps the operator concentrate on maximising the quality of the paving job.

Vögele, part of the Wirtgen group is launching new versions of two of its most popular pavers, the Super 1900-2 and Super 2100-2. Now fitted with Tier 3/Stage IIIA Deutz engines, the machines are designed for large paving contracts such as trunk roads, racing circuits and motorways.

Both can lay a mat up to 300 mm thick at 25 m/minute. The 1900's maximum working width is 11 m, while the 2100 can do 13 m wide stretches. Operators will appreciate the &ErgoPlus' work station, which provides a comfortable seat with good views of all the key parts of the paver and its work environment. Another novel feature is the hard-top canopy to provide more protection from wind and rain.

The trailer part of the Slurrypaver is mounted on three axles and the middle axle can be lifted when unloaded and during application to improve handling. The machine also has a built in GPS system which allows it to record accurate data of the work carried out.

Dynapac will be launching two new tracked paver models in its Svedala Demag range. The DF 45 CS has a maximum working width of 3.1 m and its compact design makes it ideal for use on cycle paths or footpaths, road widening projects and car parks. The paver is powered by a three cylinder Deutz diesel engine which helps to deliver high traction forces, making it ideal for operation on challenging ground conditions. The paver has a 5 tonne capacity hopper and is available with two types of screed – a vibrating EB 27-E screed or a tamping EB 28-E screed.

The larger DF 65 CS is designed to fill the gap between the new DF 45 CS and the existing DF 85 CS and has a maximum working width of 4.4 m, depending on which screed is fitted. The machine is fitted with a four cylinder Deutz diesel engine and a large capacity 10 tonne hopper. The machine can be specified with either a EB 34V gas heated vibrating screed or a EB 34TV tamping screed which offer basic widths of up to 1.7 m. Mechanical attachments can be used with the TV screeds to reach the 4.4 m maximum working width.

Power Curbers will be displaying its 5700-SUPER-B curb and gutter slipformer on its stand at Intermat. Alongside will be the Power Pavers SF-2700 slipform paver, with a working width up to 9.76 m, with integral curbs on one or both sides. It can also pave depths up to 40 mm and can vary the depth on the move without interrupting the paving process. According to Power Pavers, the machine's 68 mm tack clearance gives it one of the narrowest profiles on the market which enables it to move past street furniture more easily.

As well as all these pavers, Intermat will see the launch of numerous rollers and smaller compactors.

Hamm, part of the Wirtgen Group, is expanding its HD series of small, articulated tandem rollers at both ends of the size range. At the small end, it is launching the HD 8 (1.5 tonnes) and HD 10C (1.7 tonnes) models. Both machines suspend the 50 mm offset drums by one side to allow compaction against vertical surfaces, and the 10C (compact) machine has a drum width of 1 m. Extending the HD series at the other end of the weight scale is the new, HD 14 (4 tonne) roller. This machine shares the design of the HD 8 but has a 1.38 m roller and a 30 kW, water-cooled HATZ diesel engine.

At the very top of its product size range and launching into Europe is Hamm's HD O 120 V roller, developed for large-scale sites in the US, where the advantages of gentler and more efficient compaction from oscillation are gaining market recognition. The design of the 12 tonne machine's 2 m drum is the only one in the world to have four, not two, eccentric shafts to generate oscillatory compacting forces; otherwise the machine duplicates the HD 120.

Dynapac's stand at Intermat will feature a number of new rollers and upgraded models, as well as new innovations. The Dynapac Compaction Analyser now includes GPS, which will enable the collected compaction data to be correlated with an exact position on site. Other improvements to the system include an on site calibrating function.

The new CA134 is the smallest of Dynapac's self-propelled soil compactors and features a high torque, low emission engine. The machine is highly manoeuvrable which, according to the manufacturer, makes it ideal for tight trench applications and is likely to be popular with rental companies.

Dynapac has also added another model to its range of small asphalt rollers. The new CC900S is described as a &single arm model' which means that the right hand side of the drum is clear, allowing it to operate close to a wall or other site obstructions. The 1.6 tonne roller has a drum width of 900 mm and the front and rear drums are also offset by 60 mm.

Dynapac has launched two new 8 tonne class CG tandem rollers, which feature a frame without central articulation but with steering on the drums. The CG223HF is fitted with ordinary High Frequency (HF) drums, while the CG233HF is equipped with split HF drums both front and rear.

Dynapac's popular CS141 static roller, which uses the same large drum diameter on all three drums, is now available with a safety cab and the new machine will be on display for the first time at Intermat.

Bomag, part of the Fayat group since early last year, has extended its Series 4 range of light to medium duty tandem rollers with a new model. The 3.2 tonne BW 125 AD-4 is powered by a 25.2 kW water cooled three cylinder Kubota engine, which is protected by an impact resistant hood. The roller has a 40 litre diesel tank and 220 litre water tank, which allows it to operate non-stop for up to 10 hours per day. It also has a two stage compaction system, which allows the frequency to be switched between 50 and 60 Hz.

Bomag has also added to its soil compactor range with the launch of the 35 tonne BC 772 EB with an output of 330 kW. The compactor pushes, distributes and compacts in one movement and has the same dimensions as the existing 29 tonne BC 672 EB but offers more power due to its greater weight.

Bomag is not the only compaction equipment manufacturer to be acquired recently. Amman, for example bough Czech manufacturer Stavostroj around the same time. Intermat will see the company launch its new AP 240 H, a Cummins-powered, 9.9 to 24 tonne, 2042 mm compacting width, pneumatic-tyre roller with hydrostatic drive and removable, 3 m³, 14 tonne ballast.

As well as all these pavers, Intermat will see the launch of numerous rollers and smaller compactors.

Also new is the 12.4 tonne ASC 130 single drum compactor, which is based on an existing model fitted with a heavier, 2200 mm wide drum, which vibrates at frequencies of 30 or 36 Hz and amplitudes of 1.0 or 1.9 mm.

Expanding Ammann's offering of tandem, articulated rollers are two 10.3 tonne machines; the Cummins-powered AV 110 X and 130 X. Two, independent hydrostatic pumps drive the vibrating rollers of these 1.7 m working width machines.

Toward the small size end of Ammann's tandem vibratory rollers are four models of the AV1-2 series, weighing from 1.45 to 1.65 tonnes. These have received a “face lift” and feature the latest, water-cooled Yanmar diesel engines, roller lining widths from 820 to 1000 mm and total side clearance.

Also providing a tandem configuration of rollers, and only slightly lighter, is the new Rammax RW 1503 trench roller, available in 630 or 850 mm working widths. A Farymann 43F diesel engine powers the 1400 kg machine, which offers infra-red remote control and cable control versions only.

Wacker will be introducing several new products for the compaction market at this year's Intermat and the largest of these will be the 2.5 tonne class RD 27 series of ride on tandem rollers. The RD 27 will be available in two models – the RD 27-100 has a drum width of 1 m and the RD 27-1200 has a 1.2 m drum.

Both RD 27 models have two vibration frequencies and the exciter frequency of each drum is controlled via the throttle lever and moves the centrifugal force from the high to the low position. According to Wacker, the rollers are ideal for contractors wanting to use the same machine to carry out compaction of the sub base layers at high centrifugal forces and asphalt at lower centrifugal force. Vibration of the drum can also be switched from front only to dual vibration.

Making a world premier at Intermat, Ammann's hand-guided AVH 6030 compactor combines a proven, three-shaft compactor design with the company's compaction expert (ACE) continuous compaction control system. The controller – the first of its type ever, says the company, in a hand-guided machine – in four different modes of operation measures, automatically adjusts, and graphically displays compaction values.

Amman's new Rammax RAV 350-P (and VP) is a compactor attachment for 10 to 20 tonne excavators. The 30 Hz unit weighs 360 kg (or 760 kg) and features a built-in rotary engine, compact dimensions, and universal connection and hydraulic interfaces.

Dynapac has introduced a new three model range of four stroke petrol powered rammers to its light equipment range. According to Dynapac, it selected the Honda engines for the LT 600, LT 5000 and LT 6000 because of their low emission and low noise levels. The range also includes a narrow handle, which is specially designed to help reduce hand and arm vibration.

The range of hand guided and light weight compaction equipment offered by Bomag has been updated with the launch of the first tampers with a four stroke petrol engine. The new range Bomag 4 tampers have operating weights in the 62 to 68 kg range.

Wacker's compaction range now includes the DPU 7060SC vibratory plate, which features the SmartControl system that is designed to boost safety and improve efficiency. The system switches the machine into standby mode as soon as the operator releases the remote control. Once in standby the engine switches to idle and ceases all motion and vibration and after an hour in standby the machine will shut down completely.

Wacker has also developed a system to couple two or three of its DPU 100-70 remote controlled vibratory plates together. According to the company, the coupled plates combine the manoeuvrability of vibratory plates with the performance of a roller and three coupled unit can deliver the same power as a 7.5 tonne roller.

Milling machines

An interesting change following Fayat's acquisition of Bomag is that the group's cold milling machines have switched brand from Marini to Bomag. According to Bomag, pavers will be the next machines to be transferred to the Bomag name and are expected to be unveiled at Bauma 2007 in Munich, Germany.

Bomag now offers four models of cold milling machines. The 223 kW BM 300/100 is designed for inner city areas with its 1 m working width. The BM300/130 a 1.3 m cutting drum and is mounted on four steerable tracks and has a folding conveyor belt at the front end.

The new Bomag range also includes two larger models – the BM 500/200 and BM 600/200. Both machines have a working width of 2 m and are designed for use on reconstruction work on major roads and motorways with 372 and 447 kW engines respectively.

Bomag's upgraded MPH 122 stabiliser/recycler now has a 360 kW water cooled Deutz engine. The working width of the machine is 2.33 m and depth is 0.5 m and it now includes an electronic output control system, which allows it to be run continuously at maximum output without risk of overload.

The company used the design of the MPH 122 to develop a larger stabiliser/recycler, the MPH 125. It has the same working width and depth as the MPH 122 but is powered by a more powerful Deutz engine rated at 440 kW, which also delivers more torque. Both machines give users the option of adding water, bitumen emulsion or foamed bitumen manually or through a speed-dependent automatic dosing system.

Wirtgen's new WR 2400 is an all-round machine capable of soil stabilisation work as well as the cold recycling of asphalt roads. Based on the company's WR 2000, the new model has a 2.4 m working width, all-wheel hydrostatic drive and four steering modes for good manoeuvrability.

A key technical advance is Wirtgen's &glide' chassis. The four wheels are supported by four individual lifting columns that react dynamically to dips and bumps in the ground to keep the machine's working depth constant. The WR 2400 also includes a new injection system for precise measurement mix ingredients, be it water, emulsion, foamed bitumen or cement slurry.

Dynapac is introducing four new cold planners – the PL500/16 S, PL500/20 S, PL600/30 S and PL 1000 RS – at the exhibition. The new models fill the gap in the current range between the 350 mm working width of the PL 350 S and the 2 m plus working width of the PL 2000 series.

The PL 1000 RS is the largest of the new machines with a working width of 1 m and a cutting depth of 250 mm and is designed for milling either concrete or asphalt pavements. The four wheel drive machine is equipped with a mechanically driven cutting drum powered by a 129 kW six cylinder Cummins engine. The rear discharge system can be removed for working in confined areas and the right rear leg can be folded in for cutting alongside curbs.

The PL 500/16 S, PL500/20 S and PL600/30 S offer working widths of 500, 500 and 600 mm and cutting depths of 160, 200 and 300 mm respectively. All three are also powered by Cummins engines and feature large fuel and water tanks to allow for long periods of continuous operation.

Panien has added two new spreaders, the EpandoMix and EpandoMix Super, which can be used with the company's range of Challenger stabilisers. Both models are designed to either spread a powder binder or can be used to mix the binder with water before spreading on sites where dust suppression is needed. The smaller EpandoMix has a 17 m³ binder tank, 7000 litre water tank and a spreading width of 2.4 m. The machine's spreading rate is proportional to its speed and can be adjusted from 3 to 60 kg/m2. The EpandoMix is mounted on a three axle chassis and is powered by a 310 hp (233 kW) six cylinder Renault engine and is designed to be driven to site and can then be towed and operated from the cab of the stabiliser.

The EpandoMix Super is trailer mounted and can be towed to site by a standard tractor unit and can then be transferred onto a dolly on site and operated by the stabiliser unit. The machine has a similar performance to the EpandoMix but has a larger 12500 litre water tank and a 30 m³ binder tank, which makes it ideal for larger sites.

Mixing plants

Ammann's exhibit will include the brand new SIM SpeedyBatch asphalt plant, which has a maximum capacity of 210 tonnes/hour, suits a site location on soil compacted to 2.5 kg/cm², and can be erected in one week.

Meanwhile, mobility and site flexibility are key benefits of Amman's wheel-mounted, 200 tonnes/hour capacity BlackMove asphalt mixing plant. Five compact-dimensioned, low axle-loading trailers carry the basic version of this plant for transport and set up, without a crane, in a day.

Also new at Intermat will be the ContiMix 200, a wheel-mounted, mobile, continuous asphalt mixing plant – the world's first, says Ammann. The unit includes many components of the company's BlackMove plant and has a twin-shaft paddle mixer with an output of 200 tonne/hour.

New and “extremely” reasonably priced at less than €1 million to attract “starter” customers is the 160 tonne/hour capacity JustBlack mixing plant. Its design limits customer options but includes core elements identical to other Ammann mixing plants: modular components for easy shipping and a two-week installation time.

The Fayat Group will be launching the first in a new range of Top Tower asphalt batching plants at Intermat followed in 2007 by another two models. The generic base model 160/200 tonnes/hour Top Tower, which will be on display at Intermat can be customised and adapted to suit a customer's individual needs. The plant features a 2.5 tonne mixer and can be specified as an in-line or &L' shaped system. It is factory pre-wired and pre-assembled to reduce on-site set up times.

As far as materials themselves are concerned Fairco is launching its low-energy asphalt, which the company says matches the price and performance of traditional hot-mixes. Fairco says its market attraction is the reduced (-50%) energy consumption of its 100° C manufacturing process.

In the testing segment, Controls will show its 81-B0143 automatic ring and ball apparatus for determining the softening point of bitumen. A microprocessor system controls the temperature gradient and the position of the test specimens, which is monitored via an optical sensor, and records and displays the temperature of the test medium (water or glycerine) in real time.

Cranes

New in the LTM series of wheeled telescopic mobile cranes are the 40 tonne capacity LTM 1040-2.1 and the five axle, 160 tonne capacity LTM 1160-5.1. Both have Tier 3/Stage IIIA Liebherr engines, and the company claims the 40 tonner is the most powerful two axle crane on the market. It has a four section 35 m boom and the addition of the 9.5 m folding fly jib gives a maximum lifting height of 45 m and maximum working radius of 39 m.

The 160 tonner has a 62 m, six section telescopic main boom, which is 6 m longer than on its predecessor, the LTM 1150-5.1. Adding the 7 m lattice extension, 12.2 to 22 m folding fly jib and two 7 m intermediate sections gives a maximum tip height of 93 m.

Also making its debut is a new modular range of flat top tower cranes. The 13 new models of the EC-B series are rated between 50 and 280 tonne-metres. Maximum loads are 5 to 12 tonnes and jib lengths are up to 75 m. The tower heads have integral hoisting and slewing gear, slew ring support, electrical cabinet and operator cabin. On the 71 EC-B 5, the pre-assembled head is 2.5 m high and weighs 3.3 tonnes, which means it can be transported upright and installed in one piece.

Manitowoc Crane Group (MCG) will show 11 products from its Grove mobile, Manitowoc crawler and Potain tower crane ranges, seven of which will be seen for the first time in Europe. From the crawler line Manitowoc will display the Model 16000 for the first time outside the US. Maximum lifting capacity is 400 tonnes and the maximum radius on heavy-lift main boom is 96 m. The maximum main boom and luffing jib combination length is 132 m, using an optional 84 m luffing jib. A popular feature is the optional 95 tonne capacity, pin-on jib designed for wind turbine erection and similar applications.

The three new Grove all-terrains are the GMK2035E, GMK4080-1 and GMK5220. Largest of the new models is the 220 tonne five axle GMK5220, with a 68 m boom. New in the four-axle category is the 80 tonne capacity GMK4080-1 with six section 51 m boom, while the two axle GMK2035E has a 35 tonne rated capacity.

Of the three self erecting Potain Igo models on show, the Igo 11 and Igo 22 are new while the Igo 50 is an existing model and the largest in the series. Also new are the Dialog Wind Igo and Top Zone operating technologies. The Igo 22 has either a 26 m or a 28 m jib with 1 tonne and 850 kg capacity, respectively, at maximum radius. Maximum capacity of the Igo 11 is 1.3 tonnes, capacity at the end of its 18 m jib is 650 kg and maximum height under hook is 16 m.

A pair of new lattice boom crawler cranes for the European market will be on show. The SCX2500-2 is a 250 tonner and the SCX800 HD-2 is an 80 tonne capacity heavy duty model. Changes for Europe include the cabin layout with different types of operating levers.

Of the four lattice boom crawler cranes on show on Kobelco's stand, the star will be the new 250 tonne capacity CKE2500-2. The new model is successor to what the manufacturer claims is the world's best selling 250 tonner, the CKE2500 (more than 220 units sold in the last five years).

Terex promises Intermat visitors a wide range of products, including tower cranes, wheeled telescopic all terrain and rough terrain mobiles. Making its debut from will be the 55 tonne capacity, three axle AC 55-1. The new boom telescoping system means a lower axle load and better lifting capacity. With the main boom extended to 40 m and set at a 10 m radius, Terex says the increase in lifting capacity is more than +20%.

Dominating Sennebogen's display will be the 180 tonne capacity 5500 Starlifter lattice and 40 tonne capacity 630 HD telescopic crawler cranes. The Compact Line series is also new and starts with the 608 Multicrane, a multipurpose machine with telescopic boom and continuous slewing. It can be used with a hook and winch, with forks, with a personnel basket or as an excavator, Sennebogen says. The five section boom reduces front and rear overhang when stowed and is designed to cope with continuous use on heavy rubble. Compactness (4.86 m long, 2.55 m wide and 3 m high) and manoeuvrability are primary features.

French safety system manufacturer Ascorel, now under new ownership, is introducing a range of products that includes the MC320 safe load indicator for mobile cranes and the MC600 anti collision system for tower cranes. The company's stand will also feature Hetronic's radio remote control systems, including the all-digital BMS-2, which can have up to eight proportional and 12 on/off outputs.

SMIE's stand will include new anti-collision systems for cranes and a multi-function display with memory and zoning functions. The AC 243 is a new (third) generation anti-collision and work area zoning system for tower cranes. Improvements over its AC 30 predecessor include more flexibility and improved capabilities, for example, better braking and higher operator productivity.

Also new is the DLZ 341 multi-function display, data recorder and zoning unit. This operator-programmable unit has a “black box” recording function (data is stored on an SD type flash memory card) and can be used for zoning.

New products on show from AGS include an anemometer, obstruction lighting equipment, and an anti-collision system. Designed to withstand repeated mounting and removal, the AN3 anemometer has a solid state sensor and a life time warranty.

The SF3 obstruction lighting comes as a kit that includes everything needed to install red warning beacons on the top of tower cranes. The beacon has LEDs for low power consumption, a battery that gives up to 72 hours of backup power if the mains supply fails, and all cabling is included.

Also new is the AC3 anti-collision system for tower cranes. The encoder for jib position has a gear that meshes directly with the teeth of the slew ring and the system is universal in that it can be fitted to all tower cranes, AGS says. For set up the number of slew ring teeth is entered via a dip-switch on the end of the encoder and, the company says, a computer is not needed to programme the system.

Also new is the AC3 anticollision system for tower cranes. The encoder for jib position has a gear that meshes directly with the teeth of the slew ring and the system is universal in that it can be fitted to all tower cranes, AGS says. For set up the number of slew ring teeth is entered via a dip-switch on the end of the encoder and, the company says, a computer is not needed to programme the system.

Concrete equipment

Putzmeister's M 20-4 ZR is a compact truck-mounted concrete pump designed for use on cramped urban sites, or in tunnels. The boom is of a &Z roll and fold' design that allows it to be deployed in with just 3.9 m of headroom, but its 20 m height allows the boom to reach up 6 storeys, from which concrete can be placed over a wide area with additional pipes. The 2.5 m wide truck's footprint expands to just 3.4 m with the outriggers out.

The concrete boom has a 125 mm delivery line as standard, in a particularly hard-wearing, 2-layer design. The core pump recommended by Putzmeister is an aggregate pump with a 1400 mm stroke and 230 mm delivery cylinder diameter, which is designed for delivery rates of up to 90 m³/h or pump pressure up to 78 bar.

The company will also introduce the new 40 m class M 42-5 truck-mounted concrete pump, at Intermat. The 5-section boom machine complements the M 42-4 model, which until now has been extremely successful in this market segment. The step from the four-arm to the five-arm adds extra weight, but Putzmeister has kept this compact four-axle machine below 33 tonnes, and under 11.6 m long.

The boom is a rolling Z fold design, making it more flexible than a 4-section unit, and effectively allowing it to be used to greater heights. The unfolding height is just 8.6 m, and the support width is only 7.9 m front and rear with the outriggers fully deployed. This can be reduced to 5.1 m (front) and 5.8 m (rear) with Putzmeister's one-side-support system in operation.

In terms of specialist technology, Putzmeister will be showing its Ergonic Boom Control (EBC) system. This actively damps-out boom vibrations during delivery, helping to keep the end of the hose still and at a constant height. This also allows the required working area of the boom to be reduced, and helps prevents accidents and collisions with walls and ceilings etc. during pumping. The company's Ergonic Output Control (EOC) system helps reduce fuel consumption by keeping engine revs to the minimum required during pumping.

Cifa has redesigned and expanded its SL series of truck mixers to include three models – the new SL7 and SL8 and upgraded SL9. The weight of the mixers, compared with the original SL9, has been reduced to maximise the concrete carrying capacity without impacting on the overall weight.

Cifa's stand will also feature the latest design of the Magnum MK28L truck mixer pump. The overall weight of this new model has also been reduced and the rigidity of the frame has been increased. Stability of the new model has also been boosted with new front stabilisers and fixed rear extension stabilisers. The truck is available with Cifa's standard PB607 pumping unit or can be fitted with the company's new PB807 unit which features a 177 mm valve.

The company's latest truck mounted concrete pumps and booms – the KL37 and K52 L – will also be on display for the first time. The KL37 is a smaller version of Cifa's K41 and the lightweight machine features a five section 37 m RZ folding boom mounted on a three axle truck with a 4.1 m wheel base.

The new K52 L has a six section 52 m RZ folding boom, which folds over the top of the truck's cab to save space. The machine can be mounted on a four or five axle truck to give an overall weight of less than 44 tonnes or less than 48 tonnes, respectively.

Italian concrete equipment manufacturer Imer will be showing a range of new products at this year's Intermat, including three new floor-screed conveyors, the electric Mover 190E and 270E (650 and 750 kg with bucket respectively), and the diesel 270D (750 kg with bucket).

With capacities ranging from 190 to 270 litres all three include an automatic pumping cycle, easy to use controls, simple service and maintenance requirements, and a 65° tilting loading bucket.

The electric-powered, single-phase Mover 190 and three-phase 270 require an external compressor, while the diesel-powered 270D has a built-in compressor (4500 and 5200 litres/minute) with direct drive for lower wear and higher performance. Its low rpm (from 2400 to 2800) gives an almost noiseless operation and low fuel consumption.

Also on the stand will be Imer's new electric Koine mortar and plaster sprayers. The single-phase Koine 3 and three-phase Koine 4 and 5, have been developed to spray premixed cement, mortar and gypsum.

The Koine 3 has a control panel with inverter, with three selectable speeds giving a material flow rate of 8, 11 and 15 litres/minute. The three-phase Koine 4 and Koine 5 models have a material flow rate of 22 litres/minute.

At 680 and 730 mm wide respectively both machines are suitable for working in cramped conditions and can pass through a standard doorframe easily. The standard water pump is self-priming, with stainless steel casing and brass impeller for high performance.

Elsewhere on the stand visitors will be able to see Imer's hydraulically operated screw pumps. The Silent 300 is designed for pumping and spraying premixed and conventional mortars, while the Silent 300 A is suitable for conveying self-levelling floor-screed.

Both models use a water-cooled diesel engine, which operates at a low rpm for lower noise level, wear and fuel consumption. A hydraulic pump drives the screw, with variable displacement for lower oil heating and higher performance.

The Silent 300 has a built-in air compressor and a 180-litre mixer with horizontal shaft and fluid power system for both rotation and tilting. Both models are road-towable.

Also on show will be Imer's Small 50 screw pump. Features include a 0.8 to 14.1 litre/minute pump, which enables the Small 50 to mix and spray conventional and premixed materials up to a maximum grain size of 6 mm.

Imer's concrete machinery division will be showing its iMix plant with radius lifting arm, the ORU Zenith tower plants, the ORU MS range of planetary mixers and the L&T range of truck mixers, pumps and belt conveyors.

The iMix 750, seen in prototype at last year's SAIE exhibition in October, is a compact concrete mixing plant. The monobloc version is just 2.6 m long, 2.4 m wide and 2.5 m high. As its name suggests, the 750 has a maximum loading capacity of 750 litres. The structure of the iMix's batching hopper makes it possible to obtain a considerably homogeneous mix quickly for a maximum production rate of 20 m³/hour. Other features include the single-shaft ORU MX mixer, with steel sheet mixing case supported by two, four wheel axles operated by two hydraulic cylinders.

The ORU MX uses Imer's TWIXER mixing system. Its helix-shaped paddles create a flow and backflow that lifts and turns the material continuously, while moving the material from left to right.

Liebherr's stand will feature its new semi-trailer concrete truck mixer. A new frame design has helped boost rigidity and reduce weight, and Liebherr will be offering 9 to 15 m³ capacity mixers in this semi-trailer configuration. One of the key advantages of semi-trailer truck mixers is of course that the truck/tractor unit can be used for other duties. There are also advantages of lower axle loads.

Baryval Serviplem's new 38 m³ dry bulk tank has yet to be given a model name but the tank will be on display at the show, along with full details of the specification.

Baryval Serviplem is also remaining tight lipped about its new semi-trailer truck mixer but has said that the design optimises the vehicle's road performance and safety. Upgraded versions of the company's two 9 m³ truck mixers will also be exhibited on the company's stand.

Couvrot will be exhibiting three new products – the Dinamix, the Klever and the Master Mix – on its stand at Intermat. The Dinamix is a range of planetary type concrete mixers with an output range of between 1 and 4 m³, which are designed for use on industrial and ready mixed concrete batching plants. The mixers feature an auto-washing system to prolong the life of the machine and have a built-in rotating microwave moisture probe to guarantee the concrete's water content.

The Dinamix's water inlet is in the centre of the mixer for better mixing, even with low water pressure, and has a multi-drive motor to ease the effort of spreading and make starting and stopping the mixer between each production phase easier. The Dinamix range features three or four wide side service doors, depending on the model, to improve safety and allow easy access during maintenance.

The Couvrot Klever is a new data collection and control system for concrete batching plants, which coordinates and records the various different operations. The data stored in the system helps operators to give accurate information about each batch and monitoring the performance of the plant can help to predict when maintenance will be required to avoid breakdowns.

Couvrot's new Master Mix batching plant, which can be used in combination with both the Dinamix and the Klever, is designed for use either as a mobile or stationary plant. The plant includes a number of new safety innovations including wider stairs with landings, anti-slip walkways and higher than standard railings.

Mek-Tek will be exhibiting the new compact version of the MBPR mobile concrete batching plant. The MBP4R has a capacity of between 4 and 5 m³, depending on aggregate density, and is designed for on site mixing of precise quantities of concrete on demand.

According to Mek-Tek, the new model was developed in response to demand from existing customers for a more compact version of the company's 10 m³ model. The MBP4R is mounted on a two axle chassis, which makes it highly manoeuvrable and ideal for small construction sites.

Test equipment manufacturer Controls will be presenting its Automax 5 machine for compression testing. This automatic machine shows the load/time graph and load gradient in real time, and the data can be downloaded to a PC or printer. The model on display at Intermat will be the 2000 kN 50-C46V2 for tests on cylinders up to 160 mm diameter by 320 mm long and on cubes up to 200 mm.

Under the banner “Productivity and safety” formwork manufacturer Outinord will be showing two new products, its BHP shuttering and CPH external wall work platform.

The BHP shuttering, part of Outinord's range of tunnel formwork, is designed to be used on high rise structures and is able to withstand great pressure, 15 tonnes/m² with only four ties per 7 m² panel.

The benefits of the tunnel system panels include extreme durability, easy to move, set up and dismantle. It readily accommodates door and window openings, plumbing, electric and built-in embeds, while being dimensional accurate to within 1 mm, all of which, says the company, gives greater productivity on site.

Outinord's new CPH cantilevered external work platform combines improved safety with ease of erection and mobility. Adjusting the modular platform takes place on the ground while the legs expand to 3.25 m down the wall for added stability during working.

The platform is available in lengths of 1.7, 2 and 3 m and it is possible to combine them for a maximum length of 11 m. According to the company, once assembled no special equipment is needed during moving by crane.

Wacker's new hybrid heads for its HMS internal vibrator system will be launched in Europe at the exhibition. According to Wacker, the shape of the new heads helps create high amplitude vibrations, which provide excellent concrete consolidation and movement.

Wacker will also be launching a new low noise vibratory table for the pre-cast concrete market. The CS 36 table has been designed to effectively compact concrete during the casting process by optimal positioning of Wacker external vibrators. Noise emissions have also been reduced by mounting the table on a concrete pedestal and insulating layer.

Wacker's new CT series of walk behind trowels have a variable rotor speed of 60 to 125 rpm and are designed to carry out the entire screeding process from power floating through to finishing. The trowels range in power from 4.1 to 6.5 kW and are available in two sizes – 915 mm or 1220 mm diameter.

Also new for the concrete market from Wacker is the SV system of fasteners for external vibration on formwork, which eliminates the need for welding of external vibrator supports onto formwork. The range includes four different fixings and, according to Wacker, the system will help save time on site as the fasteners can be repositioned and reused.

Wacker has launched a new range of immersion pumps, which feature separated pump and drive units. The PF 3 is available in several specifications but all feature the same 6 m long flexible intake shaft and are powered by a 5 kW motor. The PF 3P model has a specially developed oil seal and a hardened cast iron impellor to extend the pump's service life and the PF 3S6 has two bearings in the hose and an extra oil seal to increase the stability and lifespan of the shaft.

Drilling, crushing and screening

Metso Minerals will be unveiling the first models from its new range of Locotrack track-mounted mobile crushers. Now fitted with Tier 3/Stage IIIA compliant engines, the company will present two jaw crusher models and two impact crusher machines, all weighing 60 to 70 tonnes. The machines feature Metso Minerals' IC 700 intelligent control system for optimizing crushing operations and material flow through the machine.

The company will also be launching the new Nordberg HP4 range of cone crushers at Intermat. Designed for heavy-duty applications, the units are rated at 300 kW and feature a large stroke, an anti-spin device, improved tramp release design, simplified liner replacement and high reduction ratios – all within a small footprint.

Other exhibits on Metso Minerals' stand will include its new Trellex LS300 modular screening system (see October 2005 edition) and displays covering the company's comprehensive range of support and service packages.

New to the crushing and screening market is Sandvik's CM4800i, the second unit in its &intelligent' range of Crawlmaster mobile crushers. This secondary unit features a high capacity H4800 Hydrocone cone crusher, augmented by the company's intelligent control system, which monitors operating parameters and the flow of material through the machine to ensure maximum productivity.

As far as wear protection is concerned, the company will be exhibiting a new modular system made out of dual hardness rubber, alongside a telescopic chute.

Extec will be debuting a new product at this year's Intermat, which the company claims will revolutionise the industry but full details of the launch will not be available until the exhibition. Alongside the new product will be Extec's established C series jaw crushers, the Impactor, S5 Double screen and E7 screener.

Pride of place on the Kleeman stand will go to the updated Mobirex MRS 130, which offers improved efficiency and reliability allied to lower operating costs. With a feed width of 1.3 m and a throughput in excess of 350 tonnes/hour, the unit can be used for applications such as crushing natural stone as well as for recycling.

The MRS 130 is fitted with an SHB impact crusher that offers optimal performance with low wear rates, with all crushing operating settings being made at the push of a button. Rotor speed is variable and can be adjusted according to the specific job conditions. The base unit weighs in at 45 tonnes, allowing for easy road transportation. The company will also be presenting its other mobile impact and jaw crushers with throughputs of up to 1000 tonnes/hour.

Two new ranges of secondary impact crushers will be on the Hazemag stand in the shape of the Allpactor APK and APKna. The new, patent pending units feature a number of innovations, including standardised crusher bodies that allow a wide range of materials to be processed. Safety concerns have also been addressed, with most adjustments being carried out from the side, thereby avoiding the need for the operator to work on the top of the machine.

Krupp Hazemag provides crushing installations for the treatment and handling of materials in a wide range of applications, including quarries, sand pits, cement factories and recycling.

Belgian company Magotteaux targets Europe with its latest model of impactor crusher, the mobile MAG'Impact II, launched in the UK at the Hillhead show in 2005. Available in three models spanning 110 to 500 kW of available power, the crusher features the metal/ceramic matrix composite wear parts that the company also manufactures and sells.

An interesting development in the market over recent years has been the emergence of loader- and excavator-mounted crusher buckets, and there will be several new models on show at Intermat. Mecchanica Breganzese will show its three model range of crushing bucket attachments, the BF 70.2, BF 90.3 and the BF 120.4. The BF 70.2, for example, weighs in at 2200 kg, has a capacity of 0.5 m³ and is intended for use on excavators weighing above 12 tonnes.

Allu will show its third generation of screener crushers, the Allu SC product line. These can be mounted on excavators from 8 to 25 tonnes and wheeled loaders from 5 to 14 tonnes. Eight models make up the range (SC 2-10, SC 2-15, SC2-20, SC 3-10, SC 3-15, SC 3-20 and SC 3-25), with capacities ranging from 0.45 m³ ^{to 1.90 m3}.

Drilling

Atlas Copco's new SmartRig ROC D7C will be unveiled for drilling applications – the company claims this is the most &intelligent' unit of its kind, as well as being the first &silenced' rig in the world. It will be joined by the Rocket Boomer E2, which is a drill rig for tunnelling applications, with rock tools mounted on its two booms. A third new rig will also be present, the ECM-720 surface crawler launched at the end of 2005.

Pride of place in the rock drilling tools on show will go to the new ThunderRod T60 from Atlas Copco Secorec. This is a heavy duty 60 mm drill string system for tophammer drilling designed to improve hole straightness, penetration rate and service life. Also on show for rock tools will be Secorec's Grin Matic Jazz, a rig-mounted grinder that allows tools to be reground on site.

Sandvik Mining & Construction will launch its new Alpha 250 rock drill package at Intermat. The rod and bit systems are designed for small blast hole drilling applications (35 to 45 mm diameter) in urban applications, and feature a more robust connection between rod and bit that helps ensure straighter holes. Also new is Alpha 280, for 43 to 51 mm holes.

New for Sandvik Tamrock's tophammer surface drilling rigs is the SanRemo data collection system, which comprises a data collection module and GPS tracker. This allows users to monitor a rig's performance and position remotely, and analyse parameters such as drilling performance to help increase utilisation.

New in the down the hole (DTH) drilling sector is Sandvik's Titon 405 rig, which features a Tier 3/Stage IIIA Caterpillar C11 engine. A new long boom gives four times more coverage than the previous model, which translates to more productivity, because less time is lost repositioning the rig.

In underground applications, Sandvik has introduced the new TRH rod handling system for its tunnelling jumbos. This will help speed up probing and grouting work by changing rods automatically, and also means this can be done more safely, with no need for the operator to leave the cab.

Construction

Log In

Using e-mail