EQUIPMENT
has released the new GXX range of variable horsepower, Japanese-manufactured graders, with three models:
o GD555-3 (104-119 kW, 13.05t)
GD655-3 (123-142 kW, 14t)
GD675-3 (134-149 kW, 14.8t).
Unique features of these machines, which reflect input from around the world, include:
dual direct drive/torque converter transmission, with a flick of a switch engaging the torque converter transmission for improved control at low speeds and in final finishing
hydraulic system producing a constant output regardless of engine rpm
circle slip clutch and low-pressure blade accumulator to protect against component damage if the blade strikes a solid object
reduced wheel spin through a manual lock/unlock differential, and
tight turning circle through a combination of steering angle, articulation, wheel lean and oscillation.
All graders have 8 forward and 4 reverse speeds, and a 3.71m wide blade. The 555 has a top speed of 42.9km/h and 6.8m turn radius while both the 655 and 675 have a 42.1km/h top speed and 6.9m radius.
Komatsu is donating $1000 to the Beacon Foundation for every grader and wheel loader sold to local government, to assist programs to keep school leavers off the dole.
View www.komatsu.com.au, www.beaconfoundation.net.
Caterpillar and Terex have reached a non-binding agreement in principle for Caterpillar to acquire Terex’s worldwide electric drive mining truck business, and for Terex to acquire Caterpillar’s 5000-Series mining shovel intellectual property. The Unit Rig and Payhauler brands will be retained, and the worldwide Caterpillar dealer network will sell and support the trucks and min ing shovels covered by this agreement, as well as Terex’ O&K mining shovels. The agreement is subject to contingencies such as due diligence and regulatory approval.
has relinquished distribution of Ingersoll Rand compaction equipment in Australia to Australia Pty Ltd, and has also ceased to distribute Ingersoll-Rand portable compressors. However it continues as the exclusive distributor of Ingersoll Rand rotary drills and hydraulic crawler rigs for the construction, quarrying and mining industries.
CONCRETE
The Cement and Concrete Association of Australia has released a new edition of the Guide To Residential Floors. It is designed to assist building designers, architects and engineers in understanding issues involved in selecting, designing and constructing concrete floors, and covers both slab-on-ground and suspended floors, including composite suspended flooring solutions. The previous edition has been updated to reflect changes in statutory requirements, site practices and available products, and covers everything from footing and slab design through to construction and maintenance issues. It also covers a range of suspended flooring systems.
The guide is available from for $39.16.
View www.concrete.net.au.
PRODUCTS
has released the Hella HydroLUX, the aftermarket’s first fully submersible driving lamp, to provide unprecedented levels of reliability for regular off road users such as operators of mining, military and emergency service vehicles.
A patented multi-chamber isobaric system prevents water ingress to optical components during river or flooded road crossings, while still allowing ready service access without compromising long term seal reliability. Water is purged under pressure from the lamp housing when the HydroLUX emerges after immersion. An innovative breathing system prevents the build up of moisture from inside the optics.
Two beam distributions are available, a Pencil beam and a Spread beam – both with clear glass lenses offering brilliant lighting for the most adverse and extreme driving conditions. Each lamp carries a unique serial number and is individually tested to a depth of 1m. The lamps have premium die-cast bodies and custom alloy brackets for maximum corrosion resistance. Front captive hex-head bolts facilitate fast globe replacement.
View www.hella.com.au.
WORKING TRUCKS
has recently released two new rear axles for its FH and FM series trucks: the single reduction RTS2370A and double reduction RT2610HV, suited to heavy loads and tough operating conditions. There are diff locks on each axle and between the axles, for maximum traction. Maintenance-free bearings are fitted.
o RTS2370A transfer gear built into forward axle, max. torque 3100Nm, max. axle weight 23t, gcw 70t, disc brakes for air suspension or z-cam brakes for steel suspension
o RT2610HV reduction in the final drive and in the hub, loads to 100t, disc brakes for air suspension or drum brakes for steel suspension
BUILDING PRODUCTS
recently launched ExoTec Facade Panel to replace HardiPanel Compressed Panel. The new generation product is factory sealed on all 6 sides, has 20% greater impact resistance and carries a 10-year warranty (twice that of HardiPanel). The new panel boasts a wide range of finishes, improved moisture resistance and quicker installation due to 10% less fixings.
It comes in standard thicknesses of 9mm and 12mm, standard lengths from 1800-3000mm, and widths of 900, 1190 and 1200mm.
View www.jameshardie.com.au.
has introduced the German-developed CONIPUR 255 spray-on membrane to the Australian market. The membrane can be inert and resistant to weather within 20 seconds, avoiding delays from impending wet weather. A range of formulations is available to suit bridges, roofs, decks, cark parks, below grade structures, etc.
has introduced the HDPE Akatherm Akavent 160 mm Multi-Story Stack System to meet Australian standards for multi-storey sewer drainage. The design eliminates the need for most, if not all, the relief venting required in traditional systems, by slowing the downward flow of water to prevent hydraulic plugs. Grey water from branch-lines is prevented from mixing with other wastewater until below the junction point.
PEOPLE
Brett Camm joined in June 2003 in the key role of product support manager. A civil engineer, Brett has 15 years experience in the industry – most recently as construction manager at Piling Contractors (Qld).
has appointed Derek Avalle as technical manager, based in Sydney, to focus on developing Broons’ ground improvement business, specifically directed at their unique BH-1300 Square Impact Roller. Having returned from overseas, he said “The concept of treating a filled site or failing road formation with dynamic compaction using the Broons Square Impact Roller is becoming far more widely accepted throughout the world. The expansion of the concept in the agricultural sector to improve sustainability through minimising water loss in water storages, channel banks and fields presents endless opportunities.”
Limited (Coates) announced the retirement of long-term md Jim Brown, after a career of over 35 years with the company, including 20 as md.
Coates’ chairman Bill Cutbush noted the exceptional contribution made by Brown to both Coates and the Australian equipment hire industry, and announced that the Coates board would recognise this by instituting an annual Jim Brown Award for Service Excellence for an individual employee exhibiting outstanding service.
Brown is succeeded by Malcolm Jackman, who worked in tandem with the outgoing md and management team since February 2003, to ensure a smooth transition. Brown will continue to play a role at Coates, as a consultant.
-- Construction Contractor.