Capital Equipment News January 2019

For informed decision-making JANUARY 2019

SPECIALISED VEHICLE: Farming with speed and efficiency

EARTHMOVING EQUIPMENT SOWING SEEDS FOR FUTURE GROWTH PAGE 8

WASHING: Pioneering a new wet processing era

ROLLERS: German engineering for less

SEM – ‘ START EARNING MORE ‘

construction news 30 New app for simplified, streamlined equipment data 31 SDLG unveils concept electric compact excavator 32 Second CNC machining centre for Metric 33 Shell unveils latest bulk grease delivery trucks 34 Commodity-wide success for Kwatani screens 35 Volvo Trucks provides autonomous hauling solution 36 Intelligent crushing with new Sandvik CH800i series Transport & Logistics NEWS 37 Ctrack launches ultra-compact tracking devices 38 Tata on the up cover 4 SEM – ‘ Start Earning More ’ earthmoving equipment 8 Sowing seeds for future growth specialised vehicle 12 Farming with speed and efficiency washing 16 Pioneering a new wet processing era rollers 20 German engineering for less interview 24 Scania's service footprint takes priority thought leadership articles 26 Technology revolution is actually about people 28 Time to take a peek inside the box 40 Tyre know-how – the farmer's secret weapon CONTENTS Capital Equipment News is published monthly by Crown Publications Editor: Munesu Shoko capnews@crown.co.za Advertising manager: Elmarie Stonell elmaries@crown.co.za Design: Ano Shumba Publisher: Karen Grant Deputy publisher: Wilhelm du Plessis Circulation: Karen Smith PO Box 140 Bedfordview 2008 Tel: (011) 622-4770 Fax: (011) 615-6108 www.crown.co.za Printed by Tandym Print The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher. FEATURES REGULARS Total circulation Q3 2019: 4 428 Automotive mining news

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EDITOR'S COMMENT

IS THE TIDE TURNING?

T hat 2018 was a tough year for the industry is no overstatement – the root of it all was an economy that took a few hard knocks, especially during the third quarter of the year. The technical recession was proof enough that things were tough. However, the local capital equipment market surprisingly defied the odds to even record some slight growth figures. The general narrative is that construction and mining are in the doldrums, but for me, the capital equipment market is always a good measure of the true state of affairs in these sectors. For example, if commercial vehicle sales are anything to go by, 2018 was a year of growth, though slight, in the face of lethargic economic growth, high interest rates, which burdened industries that rely heavily on debt financing, and policy

uncertainty, especially regarding the Mining Charter. As you will see in this edition’s Interview section, Raimo Lehtiö, MD of Scania South Africa, says from a total volumes point of view, 2018 was actually a little bit better than expected for the trucking sector. The market was expected to dip slightly compared with 2017, but surprisingly it recorded growth in the 7% region. The reason might be the fact that in 2017 several truck owners de-fleeted to reduce the sizes of their fleets in response to the tough business conditions at the time. Then in 2018 there was an unexpected slight market resurgence, which forced them to purchase new trucks to fulfil their new contracts. Elsewhere, the Construction and Mining Equipment Suppliers’ Association (CONMESA) also reported a continuous growth cycle in several consecutive quarters. The growth trajectory started way back in 2017 where construction and mining equipment sales moved strongly upwards to break a three-year downward cycle that had gripped the industry since the second quarter of 2014. Figures released by CONMESA at the start of 2018 showed that 5 614 new units had been sold during 2017, marking a healthy 18,3% increase over the previous year’s results. Until then, the decline in sales had seen the number of units sold dwindle from 7 250 units in 2013 to a low of 4 747 in 2016. The cycle continued well into the first quarter of 2018, with sales of new equipment reaching levels last seen in the first quarter of 2015. A total of 1 542 units were sold during the period, an improvement of nearly 100 machines during the same period in 2017. It also extended the trend that had seen equipment sales inch upwards since the beginning of 2017. Looking ahead, what are the prospects for 2019? In the truck industry, experts believe that while 2018 was a bit tough, 2019 will stabilise, especially considering that it’s an election year in South Africa. Bear in mind that SA accounts for more than half of the total truck sales in the region. Generally, there is a wait-and-see approach whenever an election is looming as the uncertainty

creates a lot of risk for any large capital investments. However, it is also common practice for incumbent governments to splash a bit of cash, especially into infrastructure development projects, during the run-up to elections. However, these are not sustainable projects, but rather short-term developments aimed more at gaining some public confidence than anything else. Truck sales volumes are expected to be slightly lower – probably around 5% down compared with 2018. The first half of the year is expected to be a bit slow due to the uncertainty around the elections. Like in 2018, the second half of the year will be crucial for the truck market. Normally in South Africa, the first half of the year constitutes 40% of the total annual market, while the other 60% habitually comes from the second half. I expect that the used vehicle market will be a lot higher than in 2018, especially with more trade-ins expected this year. On the construction equipment front, we are still not seeing any significant infrastructural projects in the form of headline projects and this means that the large and medium construction companies are not buying new machines to the extent they used to previously. However, the industry is somehow optimistic that construction equipment sales will improve during the latter part of the year as infrastructure projects are launched close to election time. The building and construction sector is probably the most cyclical and the most volatile at this stage. From current depressed levels the scale of a cyclical upturn could also be dramatic. Of note is that after showing little to no growth for 10 years, compelling value in the building and construction sector is starting to show positive signs of growth again. The Afrimat Construction Index (ACI) for the third quarter of 2018 showed that the index level recorded in the third quarter of the year increased by almost 4% over the second quarter figure, following an impressive gain of almost 7% between April and June 2018. The overall sentiment is that the tide may be turning. b

Munesu Shoko – Editor

capnews@crown.co.za

@CapEquipNews

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS JANUARY 2019 2

COVER STORY

SEM – ‘START EARNING MORE’

With an extended range of new machines that come with a host of improved features for better efficiency, complemented by a relentless dealer expansion programme, new and existing SEM customers are guaranteed to start earning more out of their machines, writes Munesu Shoko.

T he value equipment segment has grown by leaps and bounds during the past decade. The trend within the global construction market is for customers wanting machinery that costs less and capable to undertake less rugged jobs where premium machines are not essential. Barry Fang, business manager at Barloworld SEM, says there is definitely a big global shift towards value brands. In fact, available figures show that today value brands account for about 80% of the global construction machine sales. In response to the growing demand for service type of machines, premium OEMs have resorted to acquiring Chinese brands to strategically position themselves to compete in this market segment. One such transaction saw Caterpillar buying Shandong Engineering Machinery Co. Ltd, better known as SEM, back in 2008. In 2014, the SEM Company transitioned to Caterpillar (Qingzhou) Ltd. and continues to produce SEM branded products. As one important strategic utility product brand of Caterpillar, SEM has its own brand proposition, distribution channels, marketing strategy and product support. In 2016, to further enhance the SEM brand, Caterpillar approved the endorsement “SEM – A Caterpillar Brand”. The SEM brand of compact, small and mid-sized wheel loaders, soil compactors,

mid-sized motor graders, and track type tractors are targeted at utility customers for Chinese domestic and select growth markets around the world. SEM products target customers who emphasise initial acquisition cost over long-term total cost of ownership. By leveraging Caterpillar product development processes and proven technology, SEM products offer initial affordability, high reliability, simplicity of use and maintenance and responsive support to help customers build a strong foundation for future success. In South Africa and neighbouring SADC countries, since 2008, the SEM brand has established an installed base of close to 800 units. Given that for the past six to seven years, the brand has only pushed certain wheel loader models into the market, Fang is excited about prospects of growth in 2019, set to be driven by product and dealership expansion programmes. The growth trajectory was set in motion in 2018 with Barloworld SEM selling about 250 units during the year, representing almost a third of the installed base since 2008. As a result, in the year-to-September 2018, the company saw a 40% growth of its business against the industry’s downward trend. Product expansion Ewan Bradley, national key accounts at Barloworld SEM, says over the years

the 3-t 636 wheel loader has been the flagship model for SEM in the local market, with almost 50% of market share in this size class. “In the past eight years, this model has served our customers beyond expectations,” says Bradley. To enable the growing customer base to “start earning more”, Barloworld SEM has embarked on a new product launch programme that will introduce a range of new and improved machines during 2018-2019. New machines on the arrival deck comprise two soil compactor models, the 510 and 518, with 10 and 18 t operating weight, respectively; the New Generation 919 motor grader; two bulldozer models, the 816D (18 t) and 822D (20 t); and four wheel loader models comprising the 618D (6 t), 636D (10 t), 656D (17 t) and the 660D (20 t). A fifth wheel loader model is expected to be launched during the first quarter of 2019. The main application of SEM soil compactors is road base compaction and ground/foundation compaction. With the 510 model, the hydrostatic drive provides better manoeuvrability and grading ability, making the machine ideal for use in projects such as city road construction and building ground construction in urban areas. “Reliability is a key design focus area on the SEM 510. This is achieved via its hydrostatic drive system which features a world class variable displacement piston

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS JANUARY 2019 4

The 518 is widely used for road base compaction in large projects such as national roads, highways and airports.

pump and motors. In terms of productivity, the dual amplitude and a frequency vibration system enable the operator to achieve better compaction. The up to 45% grading ability allows efficient work on slopes and uneven terrain,” explains Bradley. The 518 model is widely used for road base compaction in large projects, such as national roads, highways, airports and other important infrastructure projects. “The unique vibratory pod design along with the 50 mm thick drum provides superior compaction performance, ensuring high machine productivity. In terms of reliability, the vibration system utilises a unique vibe pod design that extends the lifespan by over 50%. The digital frequency meter and three- level alarm system monitor machine performance for greater efficiency,” explains Fang. New launches The new wheel loader range is said to offer better reliability and durability, complemented by 15% better fuel efficiency. “Many components in the machines have been re-engineered to offer customers greater longevity under extreme pressure of use and conditions,” says Fang. This attention to end-user detail in

QUICK TAKE

SEM products target customers who emphasise initial acquisition cost over long-term total cost of ownership

The SEM brand has an installed base of close to 800 units

In the year-to-September 2018, the company saw a 40% growth of its business against the industry’s downward trend

To enable its growing customer base to ‘ start earning more‘, Barloworld SEM has embarked on a new product launch programme that will introduce a range of new and improved machines during 2018-2019

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS JANUARY 2019 5

COVER STORY

precise blade movement. For increased reliability, the A-frame designed drawbar provides strength in all blade positions. “A key talking point is the Proportional Priority Pressure Compensating (PPPC) Valves which contain specifically cut spools for motor grader applications, continuously matching of hydraulic flow and pressure to power demands, allowing ease of multi-function control for optimising working efficiency,” explains Riccardo Letchman, dealer development manager at Barloworld SEM. Aftermarket and brand strategy To better support its growing range of machines in the market, SEM Barloworld is expanding its support footprint with the appointment of dealers across major regions in South Africa. “We have expanded our dealer footprint to about 17 dealers during 2018. We are looking at further boosting the complement to 21 during 2019,” says Letchman. “Of note is that all our channel partners are multi-branded dealers who already have existing customers and knowledge of the markets that we target.” Fang says with the new range, SEM has created machines that are ideal for a wide range of conditions across Africa, as well as offering great value for money. “Maintenance costs on the tractor, for instance, are reduced by 60% compared with competing models designed with torque converter and transmission. The attention to detail in strengthening the machines, extending component life and facilitating easier and faster service will repay the investment many times over for customers,” says Fang. “Our brand strategy is based on transferring cost savings back to the customer. These are all sturdy machines that make the most of what modern engineering can offer. Our pricing is generally 40-60% of premium offerings, but without compromising quality,” adds Fang. From an industry level, SEM has a number of targeted markets, including agriculture and materials handling, among others. “We have a right product for the right application, coming in at the right price for the agricultural sector. Our second target market is the materials handling sector, including the aggregate industry, coal handling sector, cement, sand and stone, brick handling and readymix concrete industries, among others,” concludes Fang. b

“Our brand strategy is based on transferring cost savings back to the customer. These are all sturdy machines that make the most of what modern engineering can offer. Our pricing is generally 40-60% of premium offerings, but without compromising quality.”

Barry Fang, business manager at Barloworld SEM

“Reliability is a key design focus area on the SEM 510. This is achieved via its hydrostatic drive system which features a world class variable displacement piston pump and motors. In terms of productivity, the dual amplitude and a frequency vibration system enable the operator to achieve better compaction. The up to 45% grading ability allows efficient work on slopes and uneven terrain.”

Ewan Bradley, national key accounts at Barloworld SEM

“We have expanded our dealer footprint to about 17 dealers during 2018. We are looking at further boosting the complement to 21 during 2019. Of note is that all our channel partners are multi-branded dealers who already have existing customers and knowledge of the markets that we target.”

Riccardo Letchman, dealer development manager at Barloworld SEM

the SEM wheel loaders includes: a 93 desert-type air cleanser providing machine reliability in severe conditions; simplifying the countershaft transmission structure to reduce maintenance costs; and relocating the hydraulic oil tank to extend the hydraulic pump life. The loaders’ SEM-designed and built axle provides 10 callipers, improving brake performance and extending service life. The track-type tractors, 816D and 822D combine a high level of efficiency and manoeuvrability, thanks to the hydrostatic drive system and multifunctional joystick. The tractors’ electronic control module facilitates quick troubleshooting and easy access to components enables faster overall maintenance time.

“The tractors’ radiator boasts a new advanced cooling system designed to operate at ambient temperatures from -43°C to +50°C. The semi-universal blade combines an S-blade’s excellent penetration with a U-blade’s high production capacity. The L-shaped push arms position the blade closer to the machine, offering greater manoeuvrability, balance and blade penetration. Durable final drive bearings and multiple wet disc brakes enhance reliability, reducing system heat and extending overall life,” explains Fang. Leveraging Caterpillar’s designing and experience in MG tandem axle, the SEM 919 motor grader offers high productivity, thanks to its load sensing hydraulic system which provides consistent and

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS JANUARY 2019 6

EARTHMOVING EQUIPMENT

Komatsu Africa Holdings has unveiled its R985-million campus that brings several previously dispersed operations under one roof.

Sowing seeds for future growth

I n the capital equipment space, every original equipment manufacturer (OEM) is as good as the aftermarket service it provides. With that in mind, Komatsu Africa Holdings, the southern African division of global yellow equipment powerhouse, Komatsu Ltd, has committed a nearly R1-billion investment in its southern African aftermarket capabilities. On November 22, 2018, the company unveiled its new industrial hub built at a cost of R985-million in Tunney, Germiston, east of Johannesburg. Measuring approximately 300 000 m² in size, the new Komatsu development is said to be one of the largest industrial campuses of its nature in the country. Speaking at the official opening, Mike Blom, MD of Komatsu Africa Holdings, noted that the new campus brings together multiple previously dispersed operations in a single, convenient complex that is purpose-designed to streamline existing operations and enable the business to capitalise on future market resurgence opportunities. The strategic decision to have southern African operations in one area will unlock some significant benefits for Komatsu. From a logistics and efficiency perspective, there will be improved workflow and productivity benefits, as well as the chance for Komatsu Africa Holdings’ newly commissioned R985-million, 300 000 m² campus – consolidating the earthmoving equipment giant ’s head office operations, Gauteng branch, state-of the-art training centre, equipment workshop and parts distribution centre into one centralised property – is regarded as the launch pad for the company ’s future growth objectives in southern Africa, writes Munesu Shoko .

PDC facts Size:

21 912 m² under roof

Total premises size:

48 236 m²

Stock units:

43 000 SKUs

Daily average inbound volume:

975 lines

Daily average out- bound volume:

1 250 lines

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS JANUARY 2019 8

face-to-face communication across all departments. Further to this, with the new state-of-the-art facility, Komatsu has ensured the highest level of safety requirements in its operations, ensuring that employees’ areas of work are safe. Foundation for future growth From the onset, the requirements of the new Komatsu Campus were substantial and complex; the campus needed to have the space, technology and capabilities for Komatsu to serve the mining, construction and utility markets, not only in South Africa, but across southern Africa. Tetsuji Ohashi, CEO and president of Komatsu Ltd, says the project puts Komatsu’s sales and service functions in southern Africa in an ideal position to capitalise on market resurgence opportunities within the short, medium and long term. At the same time, it will serve to improve further the extent of Komatsu’s field and technical service offerings. “What we have done today is sowing the seeds for future growth,” says Ohashi. “The development clearly reflects our confidence in South Africa and its future. It serves as the launching pad to meet our objective of growth through innovation,” says Blom, adding that it will also enable Komatsu to render support in the much- needed expansion of the local economy through the seamless supply of equipment to the mining, construction and utilities markets. Guest of honour at the facility’s unveiling, Dr. Rob Davies, Minister of Trade and Industry, thanked Komatsu, which he terms as one of the leaders in the local earthmoving equipment, for its confidence in South Africa and southern Africa at large. He adds that the government is working hard to create a thriving environment to attract investments of this nature into the economy. He noted that recent investment pledges of over US$120-million by several investors are a true indicator that South Africa is in the right direction. “We are on a journey that will lead to deeper and stronger relationships between Japan and South Africa. We already have 282 Japanese companies present in South Africa in one way or another,” says Davies. “I am glad to learn that remanufacturing is part of Komatsu’s core business in South Africa and quite a number of components they use include locally-manufactured ones. We are

QUICK TAKE

Komatsu’s training centre offers 36 courses and has provided training to more than 2 300 people over the past three years

The parts distribution centre, a massive 21 000m² facility, is 23% larger than the previous premises, and carries an inventory of about 40 000 line items valued at R885-million

Komatsu Africa Holdings has unveiled its new industrial hub built at a cost of R985-million in Tunney, Germiston, east of Johannesburg

Measuring approximately 300 000 m² in size, the new Komatsu development is said to be one of the largest industrial campuses of its nature in the country

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS JANUARY 2019 9

EARTHMOVING EQUIPMENT

design innovation and precision; the entire floor is based on a post-tensioned cabling system that makes use of 132 km of steel cable,” says Barclay. Stock processing is undertaken using Komatsu Warehouse Management System and SAP interface. ‘Supermarket’ techniques are employed to keep fast- moving items at eye level to optimise picking cycle times, and subsequently quick delivery times to customers. It currently employs a total of 47 workers, working two shifts a day (8am-4pm and 4-10pm). Training centre The training centre facility, from which the official opening ceremony took place, features a technical, health and safety and operator training dojo focused on meeting employee and customer skills requirements. It also features virtual reality technologies with realistic machine controls for simulated operator training and testing. Blom says the investment in a technical training centre highlights Komatsu’s commitment to skills development, given the skills dearth in the country and southern Africa at large. The centre currently offers 36 courses and has provided training to more than 2 300 people over the past three years. Over the past five years, more than 130 apprentices have gone through the Komatsu apprenticeship programme. As part of its commitment to skills development, Komatsu Africa Holdings also partnered engine, filtration and genset manufacturer, Cummins Africa Middle East, to inaugurate a new Technical Education for Communities (TEC) programme at the Sedibeng TVET College, Sebokeng Campus in southern Gauteng. Through the partnership, Cummins and Komatsu have enhanced the standard education platform to help develop a market-relevant curriculum, teacher training and career guidance, and also provide much-needed practical experience for students. The TEC programme forms part of a global initiative that targets the technical skills gap in South Africa through local vocational education programmes. It is the realisation of an agreement signed by Gino Butera, vice-president and MD, Cummins Africa Middle East, and Mike Blom, MD, Komatsu Africa Holdings in October 2017. The latest TEC programme was launched on 21 May 2018 during a

“The development clearly reflects our confidence in South Africa and its future. It serves as the launching pad to meet our objective of growth through innovation. It will also enable us to render support in the much- needed expansion of the local economy through the seamless supply of equipment to the mining, construction and utilities markets.”

Mike Blom, MD of Komatsu Africa Holdings

“Africa, and South Africa in particular, have become an integral part of our global business. South Africa is not only our biggest yellow metal equipment market on the continent, but also the base from which our operations in nine separate countries across southern Africa are driven.”

Tetsuji Ohashi, CEO and president of Komatsu Ltd

“I am glad to learn that remanufacturing is part of Komatsu’s core business in South Africa and quite a number of components they use include locally-manufactured ones. We are hoping that in future they will be able to manufacture locally.”

Dr Rob Davies, Minister of Trade and Industry

hoping that in future they will be able to manufacture locally.” Parts distribution centre The parts distribution centre (PDC) is a massive 21 000 m² facility, 23% larger than the previous premises. It carries an inventory of about 40 000 line items valued at R885-million. According to Jean Barclay, senior manager – national warehousing and logistics at Komatsu South Africa, the PDC distributes 12 000 pieces to more than 40 destinations across southern Africa. It feeds branches and depots in Namibia (seven), Botswana (seven), Zambia (three),

Mozambique (two), and South Africa (32), catering for Komatsu customers operating in Botswana, Madagascar, Mauritius, Namibia, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The PDC is said to have the largest floor without a joint in the country, and rises 14 m from floor to eaves. However, it is currently being stocked up to 7 m. As a result, semi-automated turrets operating within the warehouse can retrieve items from the highest access points with an unprecedented degree of accuracy and safety. “The warehouse floor is an example of excellence in engineering

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS JANUARY 2019 10

The 300 000 m² development also incorporates Komatsu’s state-of-the-art workshop.

remanufacturing centre first to cater for the growing trend towards extending the lifecycles of earthmoving equipment. At the time of these plans in 2014, capital equipment sales constituted about 80% of the total business, while aftermarket contributed 20%. By 2015, the market fell and Komatsu’s business contracted by 38% compared with the previous year. This also saw the structure of the business spinning around, with capital equipment sales only constituting 28% of Komatsu’s business by 2017, and the rest coming from aftermarket. “The first target was to build the remanufacturing centre. However, in 2015, the mining market dipped and we put the plans on hold. We saw the need to build the parts centre first due to the growth of the aftermarket side of the business,” explains Blom. In conclusion, Blom says the main drivers behind the development were the creation of a safe, pleasant and modern working environment for employees and the delivery of enhanced operational efficiencies. “These will have a positive impact on the levels of service and support provided to customers through improved logistics, workflow and communication,” says Blom. “Africa, and South Africa in particular, have become an integral part of our global business. South Africa is not only our biggest yellow metal equipment market on the continent, but also the base from which our operations in nine separate countries across southern Africa are driven,” concludes Ohashi. b

The development serves as the launching pad for Komatsu to meet its objective of growth through innovation.

ceremony hosted at the Sedibeng TVET College, during which Higher Education and Training Minister Naledi Pandor delivered the keynote address. Blom highlights that the initiative is a sterling example of the private and public sector coming together to uplift local communities. “While our industry is dependent on technology and innovation, everything begins with people, which means that human resource development is critical. I am absolutely convinced that, with the support of all stakeholders, we will succeed in this initiative.”

conditions in the mining and construction markets, Komatsu remains committed to the future of South Africa and the region at large. As a result, further investments are planned for the near future. Blom notes that construction of a technically advanced component remanufacturing facility will begin in 2019 and is set for completion the following year. The reman centre will be built at a projected cost of R272-million. Construction of an undercarriage repair facility will also commence in 2020, and will be completed in 2021. It is projected to cost around R40-million. Blom says initially Komatsu Africa Holdings had its eyes on developing its

Further investments Despite the current tough trading

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS JANUARY 2019 11

SPECIALISED VEHICLE

Farming with speed and efficiency

At a time when farmers are increasingly looking for ways to make every part of their farming activities as efficient as possible, Mercedes-Benz South Africa has introduced its new Unimog U529. It is a highly versatile special utility vehicle that can be applied across applications in all four seasons, allowing farmers to farm with speed and efficiency, writes Munesu Shoko .

T hat local farmers are battling to generate sustain- able income to manage operations effectively to deliver on their mandate is no overstatement. In South Africa, the grain sector faces undue pres- sure to produce profitably. In an effort to sustain profitable production, producers are increasingly turning to latest technology available to increase efficiency, speed of production, uptime and ultimately productivity. A farming ve- hicle that can also be applied all year round across an array of seasonal farming applications is a boon to every farmer.

The new Unimog U529 special utility vehicle from Mercedes-Benz ticks all these boxes with its fuel efficiency, lower maintenance costs, high haulage speeds of up to 80 km/hour and its ability to be deployed in all four farming seasons across the year. “The agricultural sector is of huge importance to our South African economy. With the new Unimog U529, we want to support local farmers who have endured a tough operational environment for a while now,” says Maretha Gerber, head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks South Africa.

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS JANUARY 2019 12

“Labour is getting expensive in South Africa and farmers are looking at enhancing their efficiency at every opportunity. We believe the Unimog U529 will be a game changer for the agricultural industry and will help farmers return to profitability in the face of opposing forces such as economic contraction and drought conditions,” adds Gerber. A major talking point is the vehicle’s fuel efficiency compared with a conventional agricultural tractor when employed in applications calling for high speed or high power to weight ratio. However, Mario Alvelos, business development manager – Special Trucks at Mercedes-Benz South Africa, reiterates that the new Unimog U529 is not intended to replace frontline tractors working in primary tillage applications like ripping and discing, where large tyres (or tracks) and heavy iron is the only way to get work done. “The Unimog U529 is not here to replace the tractor – there are just a couple of things that it can do better than a conventional tractor. It is a niche product for farming applications where power to weight ratio, speed and versatility are crucial,” says Alvelos. “The idea behind the Unimog U529 is to give the farmer or contractor a cost-effective solution for those tasks that don’t require massive drawbar power, but faster operation than a conventional tractor, while using less fuel in the process. This positions the product perfectly for applications such as spraying, spreading, mowing, silage cutting, baling and transport style work such as combined chasing and manure spreading,” says Alvelos. U529 in detail The Unimog U529 is powered by a 7,7 ℓ Mercedes-Benz OM 936 Euro 5 engine producing 210 kW of power and maximum torque of 1 150 Nm. According to Duncan Prince, manager – Specialised Heavy Trucks Western Star & MB Actros SLT at Mercedes-Benz South Africa, it is driven by the Unimog UG 100 8-speed automated transmission, including a working range for a total of 16 forward and 12 reverse gears. It comes with an 85 kW 0-50 km/ hour infinitely variable hydrostatic drive for operations that require constant engine rpm or precise speed control. The drivetrain has a permanent all- wheel drive with driver selectable centre and cross-axle difflocks. The portal axles come on long travel coil springs attached

The idea behind the Unimog U529 is to give the farmer or contractor a cost-effective solution for those tasks that don’t require massive drawbar power, but faster operation than a conventional tractor.

QUICK TAKE

The UGE Unimog has been extensively tested by the German DLG Test Centre and has been proved to be more fuel efficient than standard agricultural tractors in about 70% of the roles where standard agricultural tractors are employed in Western Europe

7 0% E F F I C I E N T

2 0%

L E S S F U E L

The Unimog U529 consumes up to 20% less fuel than a comparable tractor in haulage applications

2 0-25% I N C R E A S I N G T Y R E L I F E

The Central Tyre Inflation System increases tyre life by 20-25%

A key concept behind the Unimog U529 is its versatility, allowing it to fulfil agricultural roles including manure spreading, high-speed haulage, crop spraying, fertiliser spreading, mowing, raking, baling, firefighting and combined harvester chasing

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS JANUARY 2019 13

SPECIALISED VEHICLE

standard full air trailer brake system for increased safety during high-speed hauls. Meanwhile, auxiliary braking is via the powerful engine compression brake. “One of the major talking points is its safe high speed capability of up to 80 km/ hour made possible by its truck steering geometry, two-stage engine brake and truck type full air brake system,” explains Alvelos. With a 40 t gross combined weight, the utility vehicle offers a legal payload of 25 t with an appropriate trailer configuration. It has a tare weight of approximately 8 000 kg, maximum front axle mass of 6 000 kg and maximum rear axle mass of 8 000 kg. The Unimog U529 has a gross vehicle weight of 13 500 kg on 495/70R24 agricultural lug tyres, which increases to 15 500 kg on 385/65R22.5 truck tyres. Efficiency matters The Unimog U529 is designed to offer greater efficiency than comparable tractors. In South Africa, it is available with the Central Tyre Inflation System (CTIS), which allows inflation and deflation of tyres while the vehicle is in motion. Tyre pressures are adjustable from as low as 1,2 bar up to a maximum of 4,5 bar depending on the type of tyres employed. Vehicle speed is limited according to tyre pressure and load to prevent tyre damage. CTIS ensures that tyres are always properly inflated, which brings many benefits. It can result in tyres wearing evenly, prolonging their life and improving the fuel economy of the vehicle. CTIS is said to increase the lifecycle of tyres by 20-25%. With appropriately inflated tyres, the vehicle has better handling, giving the operator a more comfortable ride and dependable traction. “CTIS offers excellent traction, protects the soil, prevents unwanted compaction and avoids wheel-spin that results in excessive tyre wear when operating in field. When operating in a high speed transport mode, the tyres are inflated on the move to highway pressures, ensuring greater fuel economy,” says Alvelos. Speaking of fuel economy, Alvelos says the UGE Unimog has been extensively tested by the German DLG Test Centre and has been proved to be more fuel efficient than standard agricultural tractors in about 70% of the roles where standard agricultural tractors are employed in Western Europe. The Unimog U529 is said to consume up to 20% less fuel than a comparable tractor in haulage applications.

The UGE Unimog has been proved to be more fuel efficient than standard agricultural tractors in about 70% of the roles where standard agricultural tractors are employed in Western Europe.

High-speed trailers can be braked via the standard full air trailer brake system for increased safety during high-speed hauls.

A key concept behind the Unimog U529 is its versatility, which allows it to be deployed across several applications in all four seasons.

to the chassis via parallel torque arm system. The brake system is a full air system actuating dry discs on all four

wheels with a fail-safe spring actuated parking brake on the rear axle. High- speed trailers can be braked via the

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS JANUARY 2019 14

tractor, but the efficiency achieved in the long term will quickly make sense for the farmer,” says Alvelos. Efficiency is also made possible by the engine’s less appetite for maintenance. A comparable tractor will usually need 500-hour service intervals, while service intervals on a Unimog are kept at 1 200 hours. The reason for such long intervals is that the engine comes with a big oil pan (32 ℓ ), which is double the normal size of comparable vehicles. Across applications A key concept behind the Unimog U529 is its versatility – think of it as an automotive ‘Swiss Army Knife’ that can be used in all four seasons – summer, autumn, winter and spring. It’s built to be adapted to a myriad jobs, fulfilling agricultural roles including manure spreading, high-speed haulage, crop spraying, fertiliser spreading, mowing, raking, baling, firefighting and combined harvester chasing. “The Unimog U529 is designed as an implement carrier, adapted for agricultural use, with the added speed of a truck and incorporates Mercedes-Benz safety technology. It looks like a small sized truck but the power behind it is that of a tractor. What sets it apart is its high productivity due to year round usage potential and versatility,” says Prince. For implement connection, it comes with a Cat 2 front three-point linkage plus a Cat 3 rear three point linkage. Its 540/1 000 rpm rear PTO offers up to 200 kW of available power, with the option of a front 540/100 rpm PTO offering up to 160 kW. “A closed circuit variable displacement hydraulic pump offers up to 110 ℓ /min with a maximum pressure of 240 bar. An optional open circuit gear pump arrangement is available and is capable of offering 2 x 125 ℓ /min @ 280 bar for use with implements such as hydraulic mowers. A fixed 80 mm trailer ball hitch rated for 3 t imposed load is also available,” concludes Prince. b

“Labour is becoming expensive in South Africa and farmers are looking at enhancing their efficiency at every opportunity. We believe that the Unimog U529 is a game changer for the agricultural sector and will help farmers return to profitability in the face of forces such as economic contraction and drought conditions.”

Maretha Gerber, head of Mercedes- Benz Trucks South Africa

“The Unimog U529 is not here to replace the tractor – there are just a couple of things that it can do better than a conventional tractor. It is a niche product for farming applications where power to weight ratio, speed and versatility are crucial.” Marios Alvelos, business development manager – Special Trucks at Mercedes-Benz SA

“The Unimog U529 is designed as an implement carrier, adapted for agricultural use, with the added speed of a truck and Mercedes-Benz’s safety technology. It looks like a small sized truck but the power behind it is that of a tractor. What sets it apart is its high productivity due to year round usage potential and versatility.”

Duncan Prince, manager – Specialised Heavy Trucks Western Star & MB Actros SLT at Mercedes-Benz SA

TALKING POINTS

Official figures from the German DLG Test Centre show that, in a harvest transport application, the Unimog U529 consumed 24 ℓ /hour of fuel, compared with a 200 kW tractor’s 30,8 ℓ /hour. In South African terms, this means that in 500 hours of operation per year, for example, with price of diesel at R17,33 per litre, the Unimog U529 will cost

the owner R415,95 per hour in fuel, translating to R217 960 per year. On the other hand, a 200 kW tractor will consume fuel worth R533,76 per hour, and R266 882 per year. This translates into cost savings of R117,84 per hour and R58 922 per year when using a Unimog U529. “The initial upfront investment can be a lot more compared with that of a

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WASHING

The Combo wet processing system can produce up to three in-spec products from natural sand or, crucially, from crushed rock.

Pioneering a new wet processing era

Having identified how the disconnect between the rising demand for sand and the correlated depletion of natural sand reserves was going to affect the materials industry down the line, CDE has acted to mitigate the impact of the sand crisis on mine and quarry operators. From this, the CDE-patented Combo all-in-one wet processing and water recycling solution was born, providing a solution to the important environmental issue.

T he world consumes up to 40-billion tonnes of building products per year, half of which is sand. As the global urban boom shows no sign of abating, natural sand resources no longer can match demand from the construction industry. Such is the value of the second most consumed material in the world after water that illegal sand dredging, in its extreme form, has attracted criminal gangs to run covert sand-digging operations in South Africa, putting lives at risks. In environmental and human terms, illegal and

unregulated sand mining is a lose-lose strategy. With a finger on the pulse the materials industry and the environmental, political and demographic trends that shape its markets, CDE dedicates itself to providing innovative wet processing solutions in a New World of Resource. At the heart of the company’s continuous drive to innovate is its overarching purpose to bring practical solutions to such issues as the global sand crisis, water saving and environmental requirements, without compromising high quality production results for its customers.

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The technology, unique to CDE, is taking the wet processing industry by storm, breaking conventions to bring a fresh approach to sand washing.

CDE, having identified how the disconnect between the rising demand for sand and the correlated depletion of natural sand reserves was going to affect the materials industry down the line, the company acted to mitigate the impact of the sand crisis on mine and quarry operators. It is from this observation that the CDE-patented Combo™ all-in-one wet processing and water recycling solution was born, providing a solution to this important environmental issue. “The patented Combo all-in-one wet processing and water recycling plant offers a practical solution to the concerns of operators who need to juggle the delivery of high-quality construction sands versus stringent legislative requirements aimed at protecting the earth from further depletion of its natural sand reserves,” says Nicolan Govender, regional manager for sub-Saharan Africa at CDE. “Versatile and powerful, the Combo wet processing system can produce up to three in-spec products from natural sand or, crucially, from crushed rock, turning what is often considered as a waste by-product into a product that adds value to the business,” adds Govender. “In South Africa, where issues related to access to water and energy remain

QUICK TAKE

The world consumes up to 40-billion tonnes of building products per year, half of which is sand

As the global urban boom shows no sign of abating, natural sand resources no longer can match demand from the construction industry

The patented CDE Combo all-in-one wet processing and water recycling plant offers a practical solution to the concerns of operators who need to juggle the delivery of high-quality construction sands versus stringent legislative requirements

The Combo features patented technology that combines feeding, washing, grading, dewatering, water recycling and stockpiling onto one compact chassis

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WASHING

Each Combo modular plant is bespoke to the client’s needs, with a range of options that allows for tonnage flexibility to suit all sizes of operations – and anticipates future needs – from 30 to 250 tonnes per hour.

longer-term resistance to erosion of the final construction material.” The patented Combo materials processing solution offers the opportunity to produce high-quality sand products, including from a crushed rock feed, freeing operators from having to rely solely on the extraction of natural sand. The technology, unique to CDE, is taking the wet processing industry by storm, breaking conventions to bring a fresh approach to sand washing. A compact installation that fulfils all wet processing needs from feed to final materials, CDE has combined its most advanced technological feats within a simple, one-touch system. With fast set up within small or large footprints and delivery of in-spec products every time, all the time, the Combo ™ is fast becoming the wet processing sensation of 2018 thanks to its innovative design and technological make up. All for one and one for all The Combo features patented technology that combines feeding, washing, grading, dewatering, water recycling and stockpiling onto one compact chassis; it allows to run the full feed to the final product process at one touch of a button, with up to three in-spec final materials ready for market straight from the belts – two sands and one aggregate product. Each Combo modular plant is bespoke to the client’s needs, with a range of options that allows for tonnage flexibility to suit all

“All six processing stages of the Combo plant have been conceived with low energy consumption as a must, while operators also benefit from exceptionally economical water consumption, with an incorporated water management unit that recycles up to 90% of used water directly into the system.”

Nicolan Govender, regional manager for sub-Saharan Africa at CDE

at the centre of the materials industry’s concerns, the features of the CDE Combo system ideally match quarry operators’ requirements.” When natural sand becomes optional Indeed, primary sources of natural sand, river beds and deserts are now increasingly being protected by governments that closely monitor sand mining and sanction illegal operators. Often, when unable to mine for natural sand, some operators resort to using unwashed crusher fines to produce cement and mortar at low cost, producing poor to very uneven results. But it is not a case of ‘either - or’, natural sand or unwashed crusher fines. For those who wish to produce sand at consistent quality and quantity levels, with the

option to choose specific grades, materials washing is the simple and accessible solution for their operations. “The ever-growing need for quality sands, combined with depleting reserves of natural sand, has compelled South African construction companies to consider manufactured sand as a means to increase their returns on investment, increase product quality and adaptability, and stay one step ahead of their competitors,” says Govender. “While unwashed crusher fines continue to be used in operations that require minimal grade specifications and where reduced costs are prioritised over quality, sand and aggregates washing is now widely recognised as the best value-for- money option by those wishing to achieve a high-quality product that will guarantee

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sizes of operations – and anticipates future needs – from 30 to 250 tonnes per hour. A plug-and-play system that allows for unrivalled control of silt cut points thanks to a highly efficient cyclone-based process, the Combo ™ technology prevents loss of sand in the overflow and loss of valuable fines to ponds. Every grain of valuable product is retained in the system. “The Combo all-in-one materials washing plant marks a giant step towards helping customers resolve various issues from the bulkiness of stick-built structures to sand feed availability,” says Thomas Doyle, CDE product development engineer and Combo expert. “All six processing stages of the Combo plant have been conceived with low energy consumption as a must, while operators also benefit from exceptionally economical water consumption, with an incorporated water management unit that recycles up to 90% of used water directly into the system,” adds Doyle. “With all modules working as a closed circuit, sand production is seamless, efficient and in specification every time. As valuable fines lost to ponds is a thing of the past, operators can reduce the footprint of their ponds, save of their

flexibility and guaranteed results, the Combo washing and water recycling solution offers presents the ideal alternative to sand screws and bucket wheels, with fast return on investment and the assurance that not one ounce of valuable material will be lost.” “Pioneering a new materials washing era, the Combo does not just benefit operators in terms of high efficiency and better-quality production, it also provides, in its compact but powerful way, a real answer to some of the most pressing socio-environmental issues of the 21 st Century by offering an alternative to illegal sand dredging that contributes to both the protection of our natural resources and the safety of those whose livelihoods are tied to the sand business,” adds Govender. “As the CDE Southern Africa team continues to grow, we are more than ever ready to provide each customer with a bespoke washing solution that will significantly increase their production with a fast return on investment, and we are even more connected to our market thanks to after-sales service excellence and engineering support right on our customers’ doorstep,” concludes Govender. b

maintenance and therefore on downtime, speeding up production times and therefore return on investment,” he says. “The Combo is the embodiment of the way in which CDE embraces a New World of Resource by producing the very best materials from available reserves, even from feed materials previously considered as waste or too difficult to process.” Exceeding expectations The option of using crushed rock as a feed makes the need for natural sand mining redundant in countries where it is illegal as the quality of the final product is on par with that of a final product generated from natural sand. The CDE Combo system is also designed to exceed health and safety standards, incorporating a range of features for easy, quick and safe access for plant maintenance. Working conditions are made safe through automatisation of the plant via an on-board control panel housed in a double door stainless steel enclosure to ensure suitability of application for outdoors, even in the harshest environments. In conclusion, Govender says: “For South African quarry operators, for

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