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Epiroc launches battery-electric Scooptram ST10 G underground loader for smaller drift sizes

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Scooptram ST10 G brings Epiroc’s industry-leading benchmark in safety, productivity, and battery autonomy, to smaller drift sizes. Built on well-proven technology from the field, the underground loader is now added to Epiroc’s leading electrification portfolio, featuring a payload capacity of 10 tonnes – and up to 4 hours of drive time on a single battery charge.

“Scooptram ST10 G is a great choice for forward-thinking mines aiming to go electric in drift sizes down to 3.5 x 3.5 meters – with maintained control of their investment costs. Based on the reliable Scooptram ST1030 and paired with our proven electric drive train and battery system, the technology used in this 10 tonne loader already has thousands of hours from customer sites”, says Mary Zhu, Global Product Manager Scooptram.

 

With a nominal battery capacity of 270 kWh, the Scooptram ST10 G can operate up to 4 hours without stopping. The battery can be swapped if needed or benefit from on-board opportunity charging through a standardized CCS charging interface. The battery also features active and passive safety systems to meet the highest safety standards.

“Working with open standards and OEM agnostic solutions is an essential part of our electrification offering that makes the transition towards electrification easier for our customers. The electric infrastructure and chargers can support not only our own machines – but also other equipment in the mine, which is crucial to help accelerate the transformation towards more sustainable mining operations” says Mattias Petterson, Global Portfolio Manager Loaders.

 

Compared to a traditional diesel-powered underground loader, one single battery-electric Scooptram ST10 G can lower CO2 emissions with up to 262 000 kg per year. At the same time, toxic gases, heat, and noise are significantly reduced for operators working in the mine. Adding to that, the overall efficiency of the powerful electric drivetrain reduces maintenance cost and improves productivity.

 

The Scooptram ST10 G also improves ergonomics and overview by introducing a large 10-inch touch display inside the FOPS/ROPS approved cabin. This gives operators easy access to battery status from the on-board battery management system, as well as other machine data.

Bobcat L28 Articulated Loader, Mechanising Manual Work

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The small Spanish village of Ontinar de Salz (Zuera, Zaragoza) has purchased a new Bobcat L28 small articulated loader, which is being used for landscaping, cleaning and maintenance work in and around the local community.

The L28 model clearly ticked all the boxes, as the village needed a multi-purpose machine, capable of tackling day-to-day municipal tasks, such as sweeping, weeding, breaking concrete, moving loads, and even mowing the soccer field. This can all be carried out with the Bobcat L28 thanks to its low ground disturbance and the specific turf-safe mode that ensures that the Bobcat loader does not damage the grass surfaces.

An All-in-one Solution for Jobs in Confined Spaces

Bobcat small articulated loaders offer an all-in-one solution for jobs in confined spaces, ideal for a small village. The machine’s size and tight turning radius make it easier to work in hard-to-reach areas. Its design makes it highly nimble and easy-to-handle, thanks to an articulation joint that guarantees high manoeuvrability. Despite its compact size, it delivers superior performance and maximizes productivity, due to its high torque engine that makes it a powerful and practical multi-purpose tool for a wide range of applications.

Impressive Versatility Thanks to Attachments

Alfredo Gaspar, the Mayor of Ontinar de Salz, talks about the new machine in glowing terms: “We are very satisfied with the performance of the Bobcat L28 articulated loader. It is the ideal model for our needs because of its compact dimensions, which are ideal for working in narrow streets, and it is very easy to operate.

“It has given us a convenient way of working as it is a highly versatile and multi-purpose machine, allowing us to perform different tasks with a quick change of attachments.”

Bobcat attachments are the key to this machine’s versatility. To allow operators to perform more tasks, the articulated loaders are equipped with the hybrid Bob-Tach system, which makes them compatible with both small and standard attachments.

Using the Bob-Tach mounting system is fast and easy. After lining up the attachment to the compact loader, the operator simply presses a switch inside the cab to engage the wedges into the attachment. It locks into place and keeps the attachment secure, without the need to get out of the cab. In addition, Bobcat compact equipment is compatible with the firm’s original attachments, which further simplifies this step for the operator. This allows operators using this loader in Ontinar de Salz to quickly switch between different tasks on the same jobsite without having to change machines.

Improved Speed, Comfortable Cab and Easy, Intuitive Operation

Alfredo Gaspar continues: “We chose Bobcat over all the other brands because the surrounding municipalities have Bobcat equipment and are very satisfied. The Bobcat L28 loader is used both in urban environments and in the surrounding open terrain.

“There are obvious advantages when it comes to the most common tasks and the end result always lives up to expectations. The Bobcat L28 loader has allowed us to mechanise manual work considerably, which makes a huge difference. It can take over the work of several operators and speeds up the process.

“To get the most out of the machine, we’ve also purchased a series of attachments including a brush cutter, a hydraulic breaker, a sweeper and pallet forks, which are very useful when it comes to maintaining and developing green spaces.

“It’s a very modern machine, with all the safety features that are essential for our operators. The operator cab is comfortable and we haven’t had any nasty surprises, as the fuel consumption has matched the figures on this model’s technical data sheet.”

The operators of the Bobcat L28 loader in Ontinar de Salz appreciate the comfort of the cab and the simple and intuitive handling. They single out its street cleaning performance in particular. And one of the features they value most is the dumping height. The excellent lifting capability offered by the Bobcat L28 loader compared to the machine weight is ideal for lifting and transport operations in tight areas, such as the streets of the old town. Its telescopic arm further simplifies load placement, which is also facilitated by all-round visibility.

Its impressive stability, tipping load and reach make it easy to position loads over ditches and pavements. The open cab design makes working safer, with the 360° visibility ensuring a visual overview of the entire jobsite.

Alfredo Gaspar says: “The most important thing about this machine is that, without a doubt, it is several machines in one. We are very happy with the result, as well as with the excellent relations with the local dealer, JRA Maquinaria. This model gets an excellent rating from us, 10 out of 10.”

For more information about Bobcat products, attachments and services, visit www.bobcat.com

 

 

 

Press contact:

Michael Isherwood

Tel.: +44 20 8723 0161

mikish@btinternet.com

Perkins appoints Comapire SARL as a distributor in Morocco

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Perkins Engines Company Limited has entered into an agreement appointing Comapire SARL as an authorised Perkins distributor in Morocco effective January 1, 2025.

Based in Casablanca, Comapire has been appointed thanks to its extensive industrial engines experience, strong knowledge of the territory and proven customer relationships. The appointment will see Comapire replace Seco Power as an authorised distributor for Morocco.

Led by managing director Yassine Tabout, who has over 15 years’ experience in the industry, the wider Comapire team has worked with the Perkins brand in Morocco for over 30 years. The team will be bolstered by the addition of a newly appointed service manager who will lead the service department overseeing technical support, coordinating field service technicians and service product support representatives.

Jaz Gill, vice president of global sales, marketing, service and parts at Perkins said: “I’m very pleased our Perkins-powered customers in Morocco will be supported by Comapire going forward. I’m confident that Perkins end users will receive an exceptional level of service and support, as Comapire’s highly experienced team have worked with engines for many years. The investment they have made in their new facility in Casablanca, coupled with their geographical reach and proven customer engagement will serve them well.”

Mr Tabout said: “The Comapire team is very excited to be taking on this appointment. We are looking forward to delivering our portfolio of service and support solutions to help Perkins-powered customers throughout Morocco. Customers will benefit from our highly trained technicians, our infrastructure set up and our extensive experience with industrial engines.”

Customers can contact Comapire at:

14 – 16 Rue 20 Hay Nour

Zone d’activité Artisanale Sidi Othmane 20700

Casablanca

 

Telephone: +212 (0)522 59 88 41

Website: http://www.comapire.ma/contactez-nous/

TOMRA Mining’s advanced sorting technology used in the world’s largest lithium ore sorting plant at Pilbara Minerals’ Pilangoora Operation

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TOMRA Mining’s advanced technology and unique experience in designing and installing large-scale ore-sorting plants were key to the successful completion of the world’s largest lithium sorting plant. The sorting installation, part of Pilbara Minerals’ P680 Expansion Project, has a capacity of more than 1,000 tonnes per hour, and demonstrates the power of TOMRA’s cutting-edge technology to improve overall ore recovery and reduce energy consumption through early and effective waste reduction.

Pilbara Minerals, a major player in the global lithium supply chain, has successfully commissioned the world’s largest lithium ore sorting plant at its Pilangoora Operation in Western Australia. Powered by TOMRA Mining’s cutting-edge sensor-based sorting technology, the facility breaks new ground in hard-rock lithium processing, improving lithium recovery and increasing final product quality, while significantly reducing energy consumption through the elimination of waste early in the process. The new facility is part of Pilbara Minerals’ P680 Expansion Project.

The large-scale project for the design and installation of the new crushing and ore-sorting plant was delivered on schedule, within the deadlines set by Pilbara Minerals.

The successful delivery hinged on the effective collaboration and coordination of the teams from TOMRA Mining, Pilbara Minerals, international companies involved in the manufacturing and shipping of components, and multiple contractors on the work site.

“The success of this project is a testament to TOMRA Mining’s collaborative approach and capacity to deliver innovative, large-scale, high-capacity sorting solutions tailored to the unique demands of our clients, providing continuous support from the testing and design phases right through to installation, commissioning, and beyond,” says Gavin Rech, Area Sales and Technical Manager Australia at TOMRA Mining. “What’s more, the scale and success of this plant have demonstrated to the mining industry the benefits and capacity of sorting.”

Successfully addressing a key challenge: processing ore

One of the challenges in lithium mining is managing spodumene ore whithinn barren host rock. These non-lithium-bearing materials, some with densities similar to lithium-rich spodumene, complicate traditional metallurgical methods and can reduce the efficiency of downstream processes.

TOMRA Mining tackled this challenge with its high-precision sensor-based sorting technology: 10 sorters — 4 TOMRA XRT COM TER for fines, 3 TOMRA XRT COM2.0 for mid-sized particles, and 3 TOMRA PRO Primary Color for coarse-sized particles.

The commissioning of the world’s largest lithium ore sorting plant has delivered a sorting capacity of 1,000 tonnes per hour. The facility’s ability to remove barren material upstream enhances the efficiency of downstream processes, reducing energy consumption by 8–15 GWh annually, and ensuring consistent product quality.

“The ore sorters enable a better utilisation of the resource as they remove contamination from the ore upstream,” explains Gavin Rech. “This means that the wet plant does not use energy, water, and reagents to process barren ore, and that the contamination doesn’t reduce the efficiencies and recovery of the downstream plant. In addition, our sorters’ high availability and efficiency ensure consistent quality feed for the processing plant.”

Collaboration: The Cornerstone of Success

The successful completion of this project owes much to TOMRA Mining’s collaborative approach, which emphasized partnership and adaptability throughout the process.

TOMRA’s involvement began in 2017 with geological assessments and bulk test work conducted at its Sydney Test Center. These tests validated the performance of the sorting equipment under operational conditions and formed the basis of the sorting plant design.

The TOMRA team worked closely with Pilbara Minerals and engineering partner DRA Global on every aspect of the project from equipment testing to plant layout and operational integration.

During installation and commissioning, TOMRA mobilized a global team of specialists from Australia, South Africa, Germany, and beyond to ensure the project met the deadlines. This effort culminated in a seamless ramp-up to full operation.

This hands-on support continues with a 24-month service contract, providing on-site support 7 days a week, 365 days a year to optimize sorter performance and address any operational challenges.

“The global collaboration on this project has been an excellent demonstration of the core TOMRA value set of Passion, Innovation, and Responsibility,” concludes Gavin Rech.

Wacker Neuson provides support in the construction of the world’s first energy island

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Since the start of 2024, the world’s first energy island has been under construction in the Princess Elisabeth zone, 45 kilometers from the Belgian coast. The six-hectare “Princess Elisabeth Island” will serve as an energy hub from about 2030 and will provide a significant contribution to the sustainable energy supply in Europe. The island is being erected on a total of 23 caissons, which are being manufactured in the North Sea port Vlissingen in the Netherlands since this year by TM Edison, a joint venture of the Belgian companies DEME and Jan de Nul Group. Each caisson is approximately 60 meters long, 30 meters wide and 22 meters high. The Wacker Neuson battery-converter backpack ACBe and various high-frequency internal vibrators IRFU were used in the consolidation of these concrete elements.

 

Reliable consolidation performance around the clock

Wacker Neuson supports this construction site with its long-term expertise in the field of concrete consolidation. More than 120 powerful high-frequency internal vibrators IRFU are in use, ensuring consistently high and reliable consolidation during the days of work. “Each caisson is poured 24 hours a day over seven to eight days. During this period, it is necessary to continuously consolidate the concrete. We can completely rely on the high quality of advice from Wacker Neuson and the reliability of the products used in this project. Wacker Neuson has found very good solutions for all our technical challenges,” explains Matthias Liefooghe, Technical Superintendent Heavy Equipment, Jan de Nul/TM Edison. Lex van Leusden, Concrete Technology Account Manager at Wacker Neuson in the Netherlands, adds: “In projects like these, close and trustworthy collaboration with the customer is of particular importance. We are proud that we can contribute to the first energy island in the world with our know-how.”

 

Improved flexibility and safety

Wacker Neuson internal vibrators with an exchangeable battery as a backpack system are also used on this site. The battery-converter backpack ACBe makes it possible to work without a power cable, which means greater freedom of movement for the operator and a high level of operating comfort. The Battery One battery drives the ACBe: a powerful lithium-ion battery, which can be quickly and easily exchanged between the backpacks and further equipment. Liefooghe confirms: “If a battery is empty, it is simply replaced and you can continue to work at the push of a button. As a result, we can consolidate concrete around the clock.” Further benefits: No trip risks due to cables running along the ground or power cables in wet concrete, which significantly increases the level of safety on the construction site.

 

Support from concrete specialists

Concrete consolidation has a long tradition at Wacker Neuson as the company invented the internal vibrator in the 1930s. The specialists at Wacker Neuson Concrete Solutions are building on this long-term experience and using their expert knowledge to provide advice on complex concrete projects. Customers can rely on precise solutions and professional support on all things relating to concrete consolidation.

 

As a trailblazer, Wacker Neuson has already invested more than ten years into electrically powered products and markets them under the label of “zero emission.” Lex van Leusden adds: “We are proud to support the construction of the first energy island with our innovative technologies and our expertise. We have set ourselves the goal to accompany our customers as pioneers on the way to a more sustainable future.”

Revolutionising TIG welding for aerospace manufacturing

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Yaskawa Southern Africa has partnered with Aerosud Aviation, a leading aerospace manufacturer, to implement a cutting-edge robotic TIG welding solution tailored to the exacting demands of aerospace production. The collaboration, highlighting both companies’ commitment to innovation, precision, and efficiency, is poised to strengthen Aerosud’s production capabilities and ensure compliance with stringent Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) standards.

The project, spearheaded by Yaskawa National Project Manager Devon Prinsloo and Aerosud Welding Engineer Nico du Toit, demonstrates the potential of automation and robotics to transform aerospace manufacturing.

Meeting aerospace challenges with advanced automation

Aerosud’s need to scale up the production of aluminium track cans for Airbus A320 aircraft was a key driver for the project. “Airbus is ramping up production on its Single Aisle aircraft, requiring us, as a single-source supplier, to increase throughput,” explains Nico du Toit. “This welding robot solution allows us to repeatedly produce uniform welds on 1.4mm–1.6mm aluminium while meeting OEM specifications with the highest efficiency.”

The TIG welding process, chosen for its superior quality and precision, delivers clean, consistent welds with minimal distortion, essential for aerospace components. The solution integrates Yaskawa’s high-precision robotic arms, Fronius TIG welding systems, and a SERVO-ROBOT Micro-Trac camera system, ensuring accurate seam tracking and filler wire positioning.

“The camera scans the weld seam before welding, enabling precise alignment,” says Devon Prinsloo. “This approach not only ensures repeatability but also reduces waste by minimising errors. Automation in TIG welding enhances safety, precision, and efficiency, all of which are critical in aerospace manufacturing.”

Seamless integration and tangible benefits

Yaskawa’s expertise in robotics and software was instrumental in overcoming the complexities of aerospace welding. Using MotoSim simulation software, the welding process was meticulously planned, reducing programming errors and setup time. Additionally, Yaskawa’s custom solutions addressed challenges such as variable component geometries and maintaining consistency across diverse materials.

The impact on Aerosud’s operations has been significant. “This technology improves workflow efficiency by reducing rework and increasing yield,” notes du Toit. “Automation allows us to maintain consistent quality while scaling up production. This positions Aerosud as a competitive, innovative supplier in the global aerospace market.”

A commitment to innovation

The success of this project underscores Yaskawa’s mission to push the boundaries of automation technology. “This collaboration reflects our dedication to developing solutions that address the most complex manufacturing demands,” says Prinsloo. “Aerospace manufacturing requires precision and reliability, and Yaskawa is proud to contribute to Aerosud’s growth and innovation.”

Looking ahead, the partnership between Yaskawa and Aerosud is set to explore new advancements, including adaptive welding technologies. By leveraging their combined expertise, the two companies are paving the way for further innovation in aerospace robotics and manufacturing.

Atlas Copco unveils the future of sustainable on-site gas generation

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In the realm of oxygen and nitrogen supply, businesses frequently grapple with soaring costs, inflexible contracts, and complex logistics. Atlas Copco Compressor Technique addresses these challenges with Total Oxygen and Nitrogen Solutions (TONS), an innovative ecosystem that revolutionises how industries manage their on-site gas requirements.

 

TONS represents a cutting-edge approach that integrates advanced technology with comprehensive service to offer a complete solution for on-site oxygen and nitrogen generation. “With TONS, we’re redefining what’s possible in gas management,” says Sabrina Karbownik, Business Line Manager, Industrial Air Division at Atlas Copco Compressor Technique. “Our goal is to simplify operations, lower costs and enhance sustainability by providing a single, cohesive solution for all gas needs.”

 

TONS eliminates the need for traditional gas supply chains that depend on external deliveries, allowing businesses to generate oxygen and nitrogen directly on-site. This streamlined approach ensures a continuous, reliable supply while reducing logistical complexities and associated risks. By integrating all components, from generation equipment to maintenance services, TONS delivers unmatched operational efficiency.

 

The system’s design offers flexibility in adjusting gas purity and flow rates according to specific requirements. This means that companies can optimise their production processes and achieve substantial cost savings, potentially reducing their total cost of ownership by up to 90%.

 

“TONS not only simplifies the supply chain but also empowers our customers with precise control over their gas generation,” explains Sabrina. “This leads to improved operational performance and significant financial savings.”

 

TONS represents a major leap forward in environmental responsibility, exemplifying Atlas Copco’s commitment to driving climate change. Sabrina highlights TONS environmental benefits. “By generating gases on-site, the system minimises carbon emissions linked to the transportation and storage of liquefied gases. Coupled with its efficient operation and high-quality gas production, TONS actively supports our customers’ sustainability goals.”

 

Atlas Copco’s dedication to sustainability and a greener planet is evident in its ongoing development of innovative, efficient, eco-friendly products and technologies, including Class Zero VSD (Variable Speed Drive) compressors and Energy Recovery Solutions.

 

One of the standout features of TONS is the Total Maintenance Responsibility Plan which ensures that businesses experience maximum uptime with minimal disruption. Atlas Copco’s dedicated regional teams handle all maintenance needs, allowing companies to focus on their core operations without the hassle of managing multiple vendors.

 

With its advanced technology, energy efficiency, and environmental benefits, TONS establishes a new benchmark in gas supply, delivering a comprehensive, integrated, on-site solution that meets all aspects of customers’ oxygen and nitrogen needs.

HAVER & BOECKER Optimizes Packing Plants with Unique Diagnostics Options

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HAVER & BOECKER leverages its expertise in the full packing process to provide customers with unique diagnostics tools to optimize packing plants with QUAT2RO® System Intelligence, the Plant Optimization Plan (POP) and the Bag Optimization Plan (BOP). Comprising the diagnostics section of HAVER & BOECKER’s PROcheck lifecycle approach, these systems help operations increase plant performance, optimize machine conditions, set up and use resources, raise health and safety standards and improve energy efficiency.

 

“We designed the PROcheck approach to maximize productivity and results over the entire lifecycle of a packing plant. As the first part of the circle, our diagnostics tools often lay the foundation for future efficiency improvements. People come to us with their packing issues; and we provide answers to those challenges,” said Andreas Hansow, Service Support for HAVER & BOECKER. “We then offer options to optimize the entire plant and achieve each operations’ Perfect Flow.”

 

QUAT2RO® Monitoring tracks packing line performance in real time to document performance, observe process efficiency and note data in a digital logbook. The results are then used to check production and identify solutions to productivity challenges and inefficiencies.

 

A Plant Optimization Plan is another diagnostics tool that provides a detailed report to customers with a current operation overview, areas of improvement and updated recommendations for their packing process classified by level of urgency. To start, a system specialist inspects the plant in an on-site audit. The full plant audit considers all areas from product storage and handling to packing, bag transport, palletizing and loading lines as well as surrounding machines and environmental factors in the plant, resulting in a thorough, in-depth report with detailed findings. Each recommendation in the report is coded with a red, yellow or green tagging system to show the severity of the issues being faced. The system specialist explains the results of the POP before providing customers with the final report in a digital file. With input from plant and maintenance managers, the HAVER & BOECKER team completes the suggested improvements to the packing line.

 

A Bag Optimization Plan (BOP) from HAVER & BOECKER provides operations with insight into how the bag performs with the customers’ machine and product. The process includes a bag volume test, bag valve check, visual pallet check and a bag specification check. The customer can choose to send their current and/or desired bags to the HAVER & BOECKER Institute to complete a BOP. The experts analyze the bag before presenting a report detailing recommendations for any bag or related equipment improvements. When combined, a POP and BOP ensure all three major factors in the packing process — machine, bag and product — are working in harmony, resulting in the highest levels of productivity and efficiency.

 

“The PROcheck lifecycle approach extends beyond an evaluation to consultations on equipment, upgrades and diagnostics over the lifetime of the plant,” said Engelbert Köß, General Manager of HAVER & BOECKER Service. “Like every good doctor knows, the key to good health is not just treating symptoms but finding the root cause. A packing plant works the same way. Our experts provide smart services, software and analytical components to monitor plant health and ensure you can reach the Perfect Flow, because only healthy processes are truly economical.”

 

HAVER & BOECKER’s signature PROcheck approach combines diagnostics, equipment, consumables, original parts, rebuilds and upgrades, service, plants and systems and process engineering to increase plant output and efficiency.

 

To learn more about HAVER & BOECKER and all their diagnostics options, visit www.haverboecker.com/en/product-solutions/diagnostics/.

 

About HAVER & BOECKER

HAVER & BOECKER is a family-managed, midsize company with headquarters in Oelde, Westphalia, Germany. HAVER & BOECKER OHG is comprised of the Wire Weaving and Machinery Divisions. Together with more than 50 subsidiaries and 150 representatives on five continents, HAVER & BOECKER operates worldwide with about 3,000 employees.

 

The Wire Weaving Division manufactures woven wire cloth and processes it into engineered woven wire products. They are used for screening and filtration in the chemical, plastics and automobile industries, in aviation and aerospace, electronics, industrial and analysis screening, in the food industry as well as for architectural applications.

 

The Machinery Division and its technology brands HAVER & BOECKER, HAVER & BOECKER NIAGARA, IBAU HAMBURG, SOMMER, FEIGE FILLING, BEHN + BATES, AVENTUS, NEWTEC BAG PALLETIZING, HAVER Automation and HAVER Engineering is specialized in processing, transport, storage, mixing, filling, packing, palletizing and loading of bulk materials. The product range includes individual machines and complete systems for handling bulk goods, liquid and pasty products, food and pet food, as well as ship loaders and unloaders. QUAT²RO networks the individual process steps for a transparent and efficient process. www.haverboecker.com

SJF Material Handling Expands Product Line with New Offerings from Ideal Warehouse

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SJF Material Handling, a leading provider of material handling solutions, is excited to announce the expansion of its product offerings with the introduction of high-quality products from Ideal Warehouse. This new collaboration enables SJF to offer a wider range of warehouse safety and efficiency products designed to optimize operations.

Since its founding in 1979, SJF has been delivering innovative products, customized services, and solutions that have established it as a key player in the material handling industry. The company is a proud member of the Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA), the premier trade association in the field.

SJF’s commitment to helping businesses succeed in a competitive market has earned it a reputation as one of the most trusted names in material handling. The company’s A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) in 2024 and glowing reviews from hundreds of satisfied customers further underscore its dedication to quality.

Through its partnership with Ideal Warehouse, SJF expands its scope beyond warehouse system integration, design, automation, and robotics, while continuing to offer new and used equipment such as pallet racking, cantilever racks, and conveyor systems. Ideal Warehouse is renowned for its innovative, dependable equipment designed to address the needs of warehouses, shipping docks, and industrial facilities. Their products are engineered to reduce damage, minimize downtime, prevent injuries, and save lives.

“We’re committed to supporting our clients by providing the tools they need to excel in competitive markets, with safety as a top priority,” said Frank Sterner, President and CEO of SJF. “Partnering with Ideal Warehouse is an honor, as we share a common goal of creating safer workplaces worldwide.”

One of the standout additions to SJF’s product catalog includes dock equipment such as dock bumpers, chocks, and dock levelers, all critical for ensuring safety in loading areas. SJF also offers a variety of forklift accessories and attachments that improve performance and handling efficiency.

SJF’s dedication to safety extends to advanced solutions like dock lights, protective barriers, and truck restraints, all designed to maintain a secure and productive work environment. These products from Ideal Warehouse are engineered to withstand the demanding conditions of fast-paced warehouses, further reinforcing SJF’s mission of delivering top-tier solutions.

The new product line is now available for purchase through SJF Material Handling’s online store, giving businesses across the U.S. access to premium, safety-focused equipment. This product expansion strengthens SJF’s ability to serve its 90,000 clients both domestically and internationally.

About SJF Material Handling

Established in 1979, SJF Material Handling is a leading provider of warehouse system integration, design, automation, robotics, and new and used warehouse equipment such as pallet racking, cantilever racks, and conveyor systems. SJF is recognized for its dedication to innovation, safety, and helping businesses achieve operational excellence.

Komatsu introduces GD955-7 motor grader

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Komatsu has introduced the new GD955-7 motor grader to the southern African market. The GD955-7 offers operators the control and precision needed to build and maintain haul roads for truck fleets of 100 tonnes and up, and is an important addition to Komatsu’s motor grader lineup.

This powerful new machine stands out with its ample horsepower and powerful blade downforce pressure for efficient grading performance. With faster working travel speeds compared to the previous model, Komatsu engineered the GD955-7 to increase grading efficiency while helping reduce maintenance requirements and total cost of ownership.

Quick facts

  • Horsepower: 426HP @ 1 900rpm (313kW @ 1 900rpm)
  • Operating weight: 47 320kg (104 323 lbs)
  • Moldboard: 5.5m (18-foot) standard, 6.1m (20-foot) moldboard optional
  • 48% higher engine output for up to 19% higher working travel speeds
  • Up to 21% reduction in total maintenance time with bearing type circle system and auto-lubrication
  • Main component 16 000h overhaul
  • Efficient combination with popular trucks from HD785 to 830E

Despite its large size, the GD955-7 offers excellent manoeuvrability. It can execute tight U-turns on a standard 100-tonne class haul road without the need to fully cut the wheel or course-correct. The long wheelbase and large 27-degree articulation angle allow a tight turning radius and provide manoeuvrability for narrow haul road applications in confined spaces and around obstacles.

The newly adopted, long-life circle bearing allows for smooth and precise rotation of the moldboard while eliminating the need for circle play adjustments or replacing wear plates. Coupled with a standard auto-lubrication system, the GD955-7 is engineered to help reduce planned and unplanned maintenance downtime while helping to extend life to overhaul.

The GD955-7 comes standard with Komatsu’s 360⁰ camera system, Komvision, which houses a 5-camera system to provide a view around the vehicle using the Komvision monitor, with an additional rear view monitor for reversing and ripping operation. This system increases visibility for operators so they can get a full view of activity around the grader. The monitor informs them if another vehicle approaches or is in their line of movement – a great safety feature for busy mine sites.

The machine was introduced to customers at a launch event on 22 July, and the first GD955-7 is on its way to a customer.