Construction World February 2019

The new wheel loader range offers better reliability and durability, complemented by a 15% fuel efficiency improvement.

By leveraging Caterpillar product development processes and proven technology, SEM products offer initial affordability, high reliability, simplicity of use and maintenance.

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 including 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 locally 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 the 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,” explains Bradley. The 518 model is widely used in road base compaction in larger 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 these 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 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 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 to 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 materials handling, including the aggregate industry, coal handling, cement, sand and stone, brick handling and readymix concrete industries, among others,” concludes Fang. 

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CONSTRUCTION WORLD FEBRUARY 2019