Sites harness skidsteer power
LWAYS a popular choice for earthmoving contractors, skidsteers are becoming even more prevalent on construction sites, largely as a result of their versatility and the attachments now available. Skidsteers started out as compact substitute machines designed to access tight areas and complete works that were too small for an excavator. However, in more recent times there has been a trend to develop higher capacity units that are still relatively compact but armed with a wide range of versatile attachments.
Marketing manager at Hyundai Construction Equipment , Robert Pearson, says the biggest development has been in skidsteer accessories. “There has been a lot of change, and these machines no longer come with just a bucket, because operators are looking for a diversified and economical product,” says Pearson.
“Major motivations for customers wishing to purchase a skidsteer include lower running costs compared to specialist excavators and wheel loaders, which are too large for small applications. Compact equipment is generally powered by a smaller engine, which can result in dramatic fuel savings. Furthermore, a compact machine is easier to transport and can be rapidly deployed onto construction sites with tight access.
“New track-based skidsteers enable operators to work on rough terrain and tackle jobs that were once regarded as impossible, whilst improved safety and monitoring systems make for a safer machine and in turn a safer construction site. Operator comfort has also improved due to ergonomic cabin design and innovative suspension buffered by anti-vibration systems.”
Current skidsteer attachments that provide on-site versatility and broad functionality include hydraulic rock breakers, brush mowers, forklift attachments, stump grinders, augers, rock saws, grapplers, trenching attachments, cold planers, pole claws, and vibrating rollers.
The HSL 650 and the HSL 850 skidsteer models from Hyundai Construction Equipment offer a range of features including a quick attachment system, and an optional self-levelling control system so that the operator can concentrate on manoeuvring and lifting tasks for fast cycle time.
According to David Harkness at Bobcat Australia, significant recent Bobcat skidsteer innovations include the introduction of a selectable joystick to provide adjustable speed control. “For example, the operator can select a lower speed at constant power, which makes the machine easier to manoeuvrer,” says Harkness.
“In addition, Bobcat has just released a remote control system for the joystick which enables the operator to start the loader engine and operate the drive, lift, tilt and auxiliary hydraulic functions from around 700m away. This can be a particularly valuable system where dangerous conditions exist, such as in a pit, where a remote controlled machine can enable the use of costly shoring to be avoided.
“The remote control system, which is approved for use with many Bobcat attachments, is useable for up to 15 hours on a rechargeable battery, and operators can easily switch from ‘remote’ to ‘machine-direct’ mode. Ensuring the safety and comfort of operators is a prime consideration in the design of today’s skidsteer equipment. Operators are looking for features such as enclosed air conditioned cabins to counter extreme weather conditions and dust, and this in turn can lead to improved productivity.”
Bobcat offers a range of skidsteer machines ranging from the entry level compact 463 to the S300 for lifting heavy loads and running high-flow attachments. In addition the company has released the new K-Series range of compact track zloaders designed to increase productivity in soft, sandy, wet or muddy conditions.
Trenching machines vary greatly in size from small utility units used for applications such as laying fibre optic cable and irrigation systems, to large units used for cross-country gas and water pipelines.
Peter Pullan, managing director of Vermeer Australia, says there is a trend for trenchers to replace excavators for trenching jobs because of the greater productivity that they offer. “Trenchers provide a neat trench, and create good clean backfill which can be used as a padding material for pipes,” he said.
“Trenching machines are now available that are micro-processor controlled, so that the machine virtually manages itself, with minimal adjustment from the operator. With our T955 model for example, two on-board computers manage most functions, including ensuring that a straight trench is cut.
“A GPS system can also be utilised to control the trench-line, and a laser is used to provide grade control. In the near future, it is likely that grade control will also be provided by GPS.
“Safety considerations are the number one priority, and developments in this area include provision of an elevating cab so that the operator can see right around his machine, and remote control units are now available to turn the chain in order to change teeth on the trencher boom.”
Vermeer’s biggest selling trencher is the T955 which Pullan says is suited to Australian conditions, is easy to transport, and continues to prove itself on major projects such as the Mount Isa and eastern gas pipelines.
Source: Construction Contractor
7-Dec-2007