Issuu

no.1 for pressure washers

‘Best in Class’ No.1

AI AND MACHINE CONTROL

Hello readers, and hello summer!

Welcome back to another issue of Plant Planet! It feels so refreshing to fnally see the sun shining; I think it’s safe to say that summer is fnally arriving! And what better way to welcome in the warmer days than with a new issue of Plant Planet? Have a little bit of our signature orange to help brighten up the days even more.

In this magazine, we bring you all things Artifcial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Control. With the question of whether we can trust AI or not constantly looming over us, this issue discusses how technology is not to be feared. Technology aids construction projects and machines’ longevity in a number of ways, and it’s clear that the construction industry is welcoming technology with wider open arms. In what ways is it helping on site I hear you ask? Well, I can’t spoil too many secrets here, can I? You’ll have to read to fnd out, won’t you!

With our feature article (written by Lorna Cowlin) discussing the theme of our magazine in more depth, a new Industry Corner (written by Ren Rush) about Plant Planet’s trip to visit Flannery’s Skills Hub, a brand new ‘Life with Lana’ section with the wonderful Lana Edwards, Company Profles with Safety Shield, MSF Energy and Euro Auction, and our Front Cover story with AFC… it’s clear that this issue is bursting at the seams!

So, take the magazine, sit outside, enjoy the sun and get stuck in! Enjoy, and I’ll see you in the next one.

Happy reading!

The Plant Planet Team

PLANT PLANET is published by Machine Power Media Ltd.

Unit 5, Basepoint, Enterprise Centre, Terminus Road, Chichester, PO19 8FY 07779 405885

Copyright

Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited except with permission in writing from the company.

Note to contributors: articles submitted to the Editor for consideration must be the original work of the author.

Where photographs are included that are not the property of the company or contributor, permission to reproduce them must have been received from the owner of the copyright. Any views or opinions expressed within this magazine are not necessarily those of the company. Registered in England No: 16081082

Conditions for Advertising

All advertisements are accepted subject to Machine Power Media’s standard of insertion. For a copy of Advertising Terms & Conditions, please write to: Darren Shelton, Machine Power Media Ltd. Unit 5, Basepoint, Enterprise Centre, Terminus Road, Chichester, PO19 8FY

Advanced Warning Improve

efciency with performance monitoring

MerloMobility enables remote monitoring and performance management of individual machines or entire feets, ofering real-time geolocation, diagnostics, and performance analysis to maximise uptime. With user consent, Merlo’s service network can also access machine status to provide faster, more efcient support.

Dealer Locator

DARREN SHELTON MANAGING DIRECTOR

PHIL EVERY GROUP SALES DIRECTOR

MARTINA TONELLI MARKETING MANAGER

REBECCA PHILLIPS MANAGING EDITOR

LORNA COWLIN CONTENT CREATOR

REN RUSH FEATURE WRITER

STEVE WILSON DESIGN MANAGER

LOUISE CARNEY X-WATCH – PLANTWORX

JEREMY MEREDITH

SAFETY SHIELD

MICHAEL SHEFFIELD AFC ENERGY

RYAN ROSS MFS ENERGY

BARRY WALKER EURO AUCTION

PATRICK MOORE FLANNERY Submit your articles: editor@plant-planet.co.uk contributors

BRIAN JONES CONSTRUCTION PLANT-HIRE ASSOCIATION (CPA)

Brian Jones is President of the CPA, the largest trade association for the plant-hire sector in the UK with circa 1,900 members. He has worked in plant-hire for over 50 years. Brian was elected to the CPA Council over 30 years ago and has been CPA President since 2017.

RACHEL LAMBERT @KINGSTON PR

Rachel Lambert is a PR consultant and the founder of Kingston PR, a business she started over 30 years ago. A former magazine editor, she is also a freelance writer covering a range of sectors.

LANA EDWARDS

Working with plant machinery since she was 8 years old, Lana Edwards is one of the most well known and respected inluencers in the construction industry. She is the Number One Woman in Construction for Wales as well as a Top 100 Women in Construction for the UK.

BAUMA

THE WORLD’S LEADING TRADE SHOW FOR CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT, AS WELL AS CONSTRUCTION VEHICLES, MINING MACHINERY

RECORD-BREAKING YEAR FOR CPA STARS OF THE FUTURE NOMINATIONS

FLANNERY

GROUP SALES DIRECTOR, PHIL AND WRITER, REN, TAKE A TRIP TO IVER, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE TO CHECK OUT ONE OF THE OPERATOR SKILLS HUBS AROUND THE UK RUN BY FLANNERY IN A JOINT VENTURE WITH BALFOUR BEATTY.

MSF ENERGY

POWERING THE FUTURE: MSF ENERGY’S HYBRID GENERATORS LEADING THE WAY IN SUSTAINABLE TEMPORARY POWER

EURO AUCTIONS

EURO AUCTIONS: OFF-SITE SALES, GETTING MORE FOR YOUR MACHINES AND BUYING LIKE A PRO

MERLOMOBILITY GAINS MOMENTUM ACROSS CONSTRUCTION AND AGRICULTURAL FLEETS

Since its initial rollout in late 2024, MerloMobility—Merlo’s proprietary telematics system— has rapidly expanded its presence across the UK’s construction sectors, ofering advanced feet monitoring, enhanced security, and proactive maintenance capabilities.

Designed entirely in-house, MerloMobility sets itself apart with a suite of exclusive features tailored specifcally to Merlo machinery. Robin Cooch, National Aftersales Manager, explains, “This isn’t just another telematics system—it’s purpose-built for Merlo machines, developed from the ground up to meet real-world demands.”

Project Manager Jon Ambler, who has collaborated closely with Merlo’s development team at the company’s headquarters in Cuneo, Italy, is spearheading the rollout of MerloMobility across the UK. As of Q2 2025, the system comes ftted as standard on nearly all new Merlo construction models, with the exception of the compact P27.6 and eWorker, which currently do not include it by default. For existing feets, MerloMobility is also available as a retroft on compatible machines, and Merlo dealers are ready to support customers in exploring upgrade options tailored to their equipment.

“Telehandlers are used daily, especially on busy construction sites,” says Ambler. “With MerloMobility, operators can track real-time performance, identify service needs early, and optimise usage patterns to maximise uptime and efciency.”

Smart, Connected, and Simple to Use

MerloMobility consists of a telematics gateway that transmits machine data to the cloud, accessible through desktop and mobile apps (iOS and Android). Customers can register their entire Merlo feet under one account and must agree to a data-sharing agreement that allows Merlo and its dealer network to provide proactive support.

The system ofers live and historical data on metrics such as engine speed, hydraulic output, boom position, and vehicle speed. Limits can be applied to specifc machine parameters, with alerts triggered if thresholds are breached— ideal for enforcing safety standards and best operating practices.

Security, Geofencing and Timefencing Features

One of MerloMobility’s standout features is its geofencing capability, which enables owners to restrict machine operation to specifc locations or time periods.

For example, users can set a curfew that automatically disables engine start-up outside of approved hours. For added security, an advanced engine inhibition function ensures the machine cannot be restarted without the owner’s authorisation—providing a robust deterrent against theft and unauthorised use.

MerloExtend: Peace of Mind with Predictive Support

Driving wider adoption is MerloExtend, Merlo’s extended warranty programme covering up to 7,000 hours or 60 months. MerloMobility is mandatory for MerloExtend, ensuring that machines are constantly monitored for optimal performance and service readiness.

“By linking MerloExtend to MerloMobility, we ensure customers beneft from proactive, data-driven maintenance,” Cooch concludes. “It’s a smart move for anyone looking to safeguard their investment over the long term.”

QUALITY OIL ISN’T AN OPTION – ITS ESSENTIAL ! WHY CUTTING CORNERS ON ENGINE OIL COSTS YOU MORE IN THE LONG RUN

In the world of plant, agricultural, and of-road machinery, avoiding downtime is critical. A sudden breakdown doesn’t just bring operations to a halt—it costs time, money, and in many cases, your reputation. Yet, one of the most overlooked causes of mechanical failure is something as simple as engine oil.

Choosing the right oil isn’t just about ticking of a maintenance checklist box. It’s about protecting your investment. Just as you would not feed a child junk food every day knowing the long-term harm, putting low-quality or incorrect oil into your machinery slowly causes internal damage, reduces performance, and leads to costly repairs. You wouldn’t put the wrong oil in your car, so why risk it in equipment that works harder and costs more to fx?

Heavy-duty engines in tractors, diggers, and other of-road machines operate under extreme stress—higher temperatures, tougher terrain, and longer hours. The oil they run on needs to do far more than just lubricate. It must withstand high loads, resist oxidation, reduce wear, disperse contaminants, and maintain performance across a wide

range of conditions. Using substandard oil puts all of that at risk.

That’s where Witham Group comes in. With over 100 years of lubrication expertise, Witham is one of the UK’s most respected names in oils, lubricants, greases and rust prevention products. They understand the demands placed on plant and of-road equipment and have developed an extensive range of premium and trusted engine oils, brake fuids, gear and hydraulic lubricants, all tailored to meet and exceed manufacturer specifcations.

From construction sites to quarries, country estates to farms, Witham products are engineered for maximum protection and performance. Their oils are uniquely blended with advanced additive technology, providing superior wear resistance, cleaner engines, and extended service life—even under punishing conditions. The result? Fewer breakdowns, longer intervals between oil changes, better fuel economy, and lower total cost of ownership.

But Witham doesn’t stop at supplying great products. Their team ofers technical support, oil sampling and analysis, and practical advice tailored to your machinery and operating conditions.

In addition, Witham Group punches above its weight with its environmental credentials, ofering carbon neutral blended products, a range of environmentally sensitive food and water safe products, as well as help with good practice oil storage solutions. Whether you’re running a single digger or an entire feet, they help you make informed choices and rationalise your lubricants use that boost reliability, efciencies and reduce downtime.

In short, using the right oil is one of the simplest and smartest ways to safeguard your equipment. Don’t wait until an engine seizes or performance drops. Avoid costly call outs, protect your machinery, and get the most out of every working hour by choosing oils that are built to perform.

Trust Witham Group – because when it comes to heavy-duty equipment, quality oil isn’t an option, it’s essential.

OPERATOR CHALLENGE RETURNS TO PLANTWORX 2025 –JCB JOINS AS HEADLINE SPONSOR

The hugely popular Operator Challenge is set to return to PlantWorx in 2025, bringing even more energy and action to the UK’s largest working construction event. Now taking place at Newark Showground, the Challenge will again be a major draw, with JCB confrmed as headline sponsor, celebrating its 80th anniversary with a full line-up of machines and an exclusive static display.

JCB will supply all equipment used in the competition, including compact excavators, the 145XR X Series, the latest 3CX, and the versatile Hydradig. Visitors will also have a chance to view JCB’s hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine, ofering a glimpse into the future of alternative power on site.

The Challenge builds on the success of its debut at PlantWorx 2023, where hundreds of operators took part in skillbased games designed to test precision, control, and fair.

The 2025 edition features eight timed challenges inspired by classic board games, plus two open-access head-tohead events for accredited operators keen to get involved.

Gareth Lumsdaine, JCB UK and ROI Sales Director, said: “We’re proud to support the Operator Challenge at PlantWorx 2025. It’s a fantastic way to mark 80 years of JCB and a brilliant opportunity to showcase our machines in action — with real operators behind the controls. It’s set to be an exciting three days.”

Dale Hawkins, founder and organiser of the Operator Challenge, added: “We’ve seen this competition grow year on year, and 2025 feels like a real milestone. Having JCB on board as headline sponsor gives it an extra level of prestige — and rightly so. This is about giving operators a platform to show what they do best, and celebrating the skill and precision that makes the industry tick.”

Big names from the operator community will be back, including Amy Underwood (The Digger Girl), Lloyd Peckham (Bearded Excavation UK) and Conor Kelly (Conor the Digger Driver), with a much-anticipated rematch between Conor and Lloyd on the cards.

Daily prizes will be awarded, and an overall winner will be crowned based on the lowest combined time. Support comes from Astrak, Flannery Plant Hire, Collins Earthworks, Conquip, and Steelwrist, with more names to be announced.

Two dedicated JCB demo zones will also run alongside the competition, ofering visitors a chance to try the kit for themselves in a more relaxed setting.

To learn more about JCB, please visit: www.jcb.com/en-gb

NEW ORDERS SURGE AS SECTOR GEARS UP FOR PLANTWORX 2025

Asharp rise in new construction orders has signalled a strong pipeline of future work for the industry, ofering timely encouragement for equipment manufacturers, dealers and hire frms preparing for renewed demand.

According to the Ofce for National Statistics (ONS), while construction output in Great Britain showed no growth in the frst quarter of 2025, the latest data points to signifcant opportunity ahead. Total new orders jumped by 26.6% (£2.45 billion) compared with the previous quarter, driven by infrastructure and private industrial projects—both sectors typically demand substantial plant and machinery investment.

With housing activity also picking up and contractors looking to upgrade their feets, the timing of the PlantWorx construction exhibition in September couldn’t be better. Returning to Newark Showground from Tuesday, September 23rd, to Thursday, September 25th, 2025, PlantWorx ofers a timely platform for equipment suppliers to engage directly with construction professionals planning their next move.

ONS data confrms that while quarterly output was fat (0.0%) compared to

Q4 2024, March saw modest growth of 0.5%, following an upwardly revised 0.2% in February and a 0.3% fall in January. Within the Q1 fgures, new work rose by 0.9%, ofsetting a 1.2% fall in repair and maintenance activity.

Growth in both segments underpinned March’s positive momentum. New work increased by 0.6% on the month, while repair and maintenance rose by 0.4%. Notably, private housing and infrastructure were the key contributors to growth, rising by 2.3% and 2.5%, respectively.

New orders are a forward-looking indicator. They signal contracts awarded but not yet delivered – in other words, the work that’s coming. And where there’s work, there’s demand for machines, attachments, safety systems, servicing and technology.

Contractors with new projects on the books will review their feets, assessing what they need to buy, hire, or replace to meet the demands of complex builds and regulatory standards. For the supply chain, this is a moment to be present, visible, and ready.

PlantWorx 2025 ofers that opportunity. As the largest working construction exhibition in the UK this year, it gives the

sector a clear view of where the market is heading — and how companies are responding. With over 300 exhibitors expected, live demonstrations, new technology, and a focus on workforce development, it’s a key date for anyone involved in construction equipment. More than 12,000 visitors are expected across the three days.

After a muted start to the year, the construction sector is clearly building towards something larger. The sharp increase in new orders suggests that contractors are looking beyond shortterm uncertainty and planning for delivery. For equipment manufacturers and suppliers, the message is clear: demand is coming. Now is the time to make sure you’re ready for it.

The complete exhibitor list is now live online and you can now register for your free fast-track entry to PlantWorx 2025

To learn more about PlantWorx 2025, please visit: https://plantworx.co.uk

NOT JUST A CREDIT SCORE WITH DANIEL HUGHES, REGIONAL SALES MANAGER

At Close Brothers Asset Finance, our customers are more than just a credit score - we base our lending decisions on the overall health and plans for a business.

The human component is core to our success and every stage in the lending decision-making process involves a member of our team.

We spoke with Daniel Hughes, a Regional Sales Manager in our construction team, to explain more about the application process…

Stage 1

Typically, new enquiries come either from new or existing customers contacting us directly. This can range from introducers - such as a dealership – to the many equipment manufacturers we have a working relationship with.

Existing customers tend to email or call me directly because I’m their main contact throughout their time with us. In the early stages, most communication is conducted by email, phone calls, or a mix of the two; however I’m also happy to meet clients face-to-face if that’s their preference. We are very fexible and adapt to our customers’ needs – we understand they may have irregular working hours, and I’m happy to speak or pick up messages and texts at a time that suits them.

Stage 2

When I get an enquiry, I’ll start by carefully listening to what my customer is looking to achieve after which I’ll provide my recommendation on the most appropriate fnance solution, whether that be Hire Purchase, Refnance or a Lease agreement.

Something to note is we aren’t afraid of tailor-made deals – it’s what sets us apart. If the customer’s request is unusual, I talk it through with them before we put an application together to determine if they want to proceed or maybe work it in a diferent way.

At this stage I ask the customer to give me all the information needed to support their application. Some customers have been known to withhold what they feel could be perceived as negative information, thinking it will lead to their application being declined. This is not the case at Close Brothers Asset Finance, because we make decisions based on the overall health and future plans for the business.

Knowing everything up front means we can address any queries and explain any situations to our in-house team of underwriters, helping them to reach a decision that’s right for both the customer and Close Brothers Asset Finance.

Stage 3

Once we are set on a plan, I will advise on any further information I need andonce received - I will submit the proposal to the underwriters. If there are any questions from them, I will feed this back to the customer, obtaining answers to facilitate a speedy decision.

I then let the customer know which decision has been reached, and if it’s an approval, we raise the required documentation for signing and payout is arranged.

I hope I’ve been able to show that not only is the application process straightforward, but that real people are responsible for making the decisions.

M A X I M I S E

Y O U R U P T

I M

E . QUALITY SPARES & REPAIRS TO EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR MACHINE.

MACHINE CONTROL IS THE FUTURE –BUT THE REST OF YOUR MACHINE STILL MATTERS

The construction industry is undergoing rapid transformation. Technologies like GPS guidance, GNSS, and AI-assisted automation are reshaping how machines operate on site. With around 32% of UK construction projects now incorporating machine control—and forecasts predicting that number could rise to 70–85% by 2035—this is more than a passing trend. Machine control is fast becoming an industry standard.

But while investment in digital systems is essential for staying competitive, it’s important not to overlook the mechanical heart of your equipment. Drives, pumps, slew rings and hydraulics are the systems that ultimately make these high-tech machines move, lift, dig, and grade. And they need just as much attention as the onboard tech.

Supporting Smarter Machines with Reliable Mechanical Performance

At a time when many plant hire companies are investing heavily in automation, we’re focused on helping them keep the rest of their machines working efciently and reliably. We supply new and refurbished fnal drives, swing drives, slew rings, hydraulic pumps, and

other critical components, as well as ofering refurbishment services from our fully equipped workshop.

This approach gives plant hire frms the fexibility to support their customers with dependable machinery—without needing to replace or upgrade entire feets.

Aging Equipment and the Hidden Costs of Overlooked Maintenance

Machine control technologies have been integrated into construction equipment since the early 2000s. That means a large proportion of AI or GPS-enabled machines on the market today are now over fve years old—and many are signifcantly older. As machines age, their core mechanical parts naturally experience more wear and tear. Combine that with the greater demands of precision automation, and these systems can come under real pressure.

While advanced telematics or automated systems can optimise performance, they can’t compensate for a failing fnal drive or a sluggish slew ring. And with parts wear often increasing after fve to seven years, it’s important for hire companies to have a plan in place for preventative maintenance and timely component replacement.

A Cost-Effective Way to Extend Machine Life

In a high-cost environment, smart investment is key. We recognise that not every business can, or should, overhaul their entire feet in order to meet the latest technological expectations. Instead, many are choosing to extend the life of their existing machinery—especially when it’s already equipped with useful control systems—by investing in targeted component replacement and refurbishment.

This not only improves machine reliability but also allows businesses to continue ofering valuable, high-spec plant to their customers at competitive rates.

Meeting Market Expectations with Confidence

Today’s customers expect modern features—but they also want machines that are dependable, well-maintained, and capable of meeting tight site deadlines. Keeping your equipment’s mechanical systems in top condition supports this, ensuring that every hire performs as expected and that digital tools work as designed.

By ofering parts that are fully tested, refurbished to a high standard, and

ready to ft, we help our clients reduce downtime, lower total ownership costs, and maintain a positive reputation in a highly competitive sector.

Partnering with the Industry for LongTerm Value

We understand the pressures plant hire companies face—whether it’s keeping up with rapid changes in technology or managing the costs of an aging feet. Our goal is to provide a dependable, cost-efective solution that complements your investment in machine control and supports the wider lifecycle of your machines.

Through our supply of new and refurbished components and our inhouse workshop refurbishment services, we help businesses:

• Extend the operational life of key assets

• Avoid costly breakdowns and downtime

• Manage feets more efciently and sustainably

While machine control and automation will continue to evolve, the need for strong, reliable mechanical systems remains unchanged. With the right parts and the right support, plant hire companies can ofer both—cuttingedge technology and dependable performance—without compromising one for the other.

For more information about us, our products or workshop, please head over to plant-parts.eu or email the team directly at sales@plant-parts.com

Sources of info

Machine Control Adoption in the UK

• Current Adoption Rate: Approximately 32% of UK construction projects incorporate machine control technologies.

• Projected Market Growth: The global machine control system market is projected to grow from USD 9.3 billion in 2025 to USD 17 billion by 2035, refecting a CAGR of 6.2%.

(Future Market Insights)

Aging Equipment and Maintenance Costs

• Maintenance Costs for Older Equipment: Older machines typically experience higher failure rates and require more frequent servicing. Maintenance and repair costs can equal up to 75% of the new cost of the machine over its lifetime.

(Peterson Portable Sawmills)

• Impact of Aging Equipment: As equipment ages, maintenance and repair costs steadily increase, potentially surpassing the value of the equipment itself.

(CONEXPO-CON/AGG)

UK Plant Hire Market Trends

• Market Size and Growth: The UK construction equipment rental market is expected to grow from USD 5.49 billion in 2024 to USD 8.25 billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 3.77%.

(Market Research Future)

• Market Dynamics: The UK plant hire market is a highly competitive and fragmented industry, encompassing national equipment rental companies and regional independents.

(Barbour ABI Store)

Automation and AI in Construction

• Economic Impact: If fully adopted, Smart Machines could increase UK Gross Value Added (GVA) across sectors from £6.4 billion to £150 billion by 2035.

(GOV.UK)

• Advancements in Equipment: Automation, electrifcation, and AI are transforming construction equipment and jobsites worldwide.

(Highways Today)

RAIL LIVE 2025: THE UK’S PREMIER OUTDOOR RAILWAY INDUSTRY EVENT RETURNS

Rail Live, the UK’s largest outdoor rail exhibition, is set to return on 18 – 19 June, 2025 at Porterbrook’s Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre in Warwickshire. Hosted at the only rail-connected venue of its kind in the country, Rail Live 2025 promises to unite thousands of railway professionals, suppliers, and decision-makers for two days of live demonstrations, networking, and industry insight.

Organised by Bauer Media and supported by key industry partners, Rail Live continues to lead the way in promoting innovation across all sectors of the rail industry – from infrastructure and rolling stock to digital technology, sustainability, and workforce development. The event is uniquely positioned to ofer hands-on access to

working rail machinery, track plant, and in-feld solutions that can’t be showcased in traditional exhibition halls.

“With the rail industry undergoing rapid change, Rail Live is more relevant than ever,” said Katie Gordon-Hill, Exhibition Director, Rail Live. “This is the only show where you can see real equipment in a live railway environment, speak directly to suppliers, and take part in discussions shaping the future of UK rail.”

Key highlights of Rail Live 2025 include:

• Live demonstrations of on-track plant, signalling systems, and new rail technologies

• Over 300 exhibitors from across the UK and international rail sectors

• Top-level speakers and panels addressing decarbonisation, digital transformation, and rail reform

• Networking opportunities with industry leaders, operators, and government representatives

The event attracts a wide range of attendees including Network Rail, train operating companies, freight operators, suppliers, and industry bodies. In 2024, Rail Live welcomed almost 7,000 professionals and over 300 exhibitors. Join us at Rail Live 2025 and experience the UK rail industry in motion. Registration is now open at: https://raillive.org.uk free for rail professionals and industry stakeholders.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

TIGER PLANT HIRE INVESTS IN CUTTING-EDGE TELEMATICS FROM PVS DATA TO ELEVATE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Tiger Plant Hire is pushing boundaries in construction feet innovation with a strategic investment in expanding their excavator lineup. With an existing feet of over 150 machines ranging from excavators, roller, telehandler and dumpers, the company has introduced new Kubota U50 and KX085 excavators. The new additions will arrive at Tiger’s Swindon depot fully equipped with PVS Data’s stateof-the-art B1 telematics units and keypad immobilisers—solidifying their commitment to efciency, transparency, and customer-centric solutions as well as heightening their security on site.

This latest move reinforces Tiger Plant Hire’s dedication to providing customers with the best equipment and technology available in the market. By integrating PVS Data’s B1 telematics units into their expanding feet, the company ensures unparalleled machine performance insights, operational efciency, and enhanced security for both them and their customers.

With the addition of keypad immobilisers, Tiger Plant Hire and their customers are in complete control when it comes to operator usage. The additional security that comes from the keypad immobilisers allows owners and customers to change keypad combinations remotely, view tried and tested combinations and set exact times for machines (being turned on and of) to be locked down.

Optimised Fleet Management & Customer Benefits

The B1 telematics units empower Tiger Plant Hire’s customers with real-time data on machine engine hours, battery levels, and machine locations to a 3m x 3m point. This includes:

• Improved Machine Uptime – Predictive maintenance and service hour intervals minimise unexpected downtime.

Tiger Plant Hire’s customers receive true value for money with accurately scheduled maintenance at times convenient to them

• Enhanced Security – GPS tracking and anti-theft features safeguard assets, providing peace of mind and reduced risk of theft on site

• Operational Efciency – With the parameters coming in from the B1 devices, Tiger Plant Hire gains visibility into equipment utilisation, helping them maximise productivity and reduce costs in both the long and short term

• Geofencing Capabilities – Tiger Plant Hire’s customers can beneft from the innovative Geofence creator within PVS Data’s platform. Create a custom geofence and generate alerts for machines that breach the fence

Tiger Plant Hire’s Managing Director Shane Sherbourne commented:

“Investing in Kubota and PVS Data’s telematics is an investment in our customers. We want to provide them with not just quality machinery, but the insights and tools to get the most out of every machine on their site. These innovations bring smarter hiring solutions, allowing for more informed decision-making and a seamless operational experience.”

Driving the Future of Plant Hire

By harnessing the power of telematics and investing in Kubota’s latest range of excavators, Tiger Plant Hire is reshaping industry standards, proving that hiring equipment isn’t just about availability, but also intelligence and efciency. With data-driven insights at their fngertips, customers can optimise workfows, improve project planning, and boost overall site productivity.

The investment in Kubota excavators with PVS Data’s B1 telematics further positions Tiger Plant Hire as a forwardthinking leader in the plant hire sector. As the industry continues to evolve, the company remains steadfast in its mission: delivering smarter, safer, and more efcient solutions for the modern construction landscape.

For further information, please contact: Tiger Plant Hire: hiredesk@tigerplant.co.uk PVS Data: info@pvsdata.com

FROM THE GROUND UP: THE PUMP TECHNOLOGY POWERING CIVIL AND RAIL PROJECTS

In rail and civil engineering, the spotlight usually falls on towering cranes, heavy machinery and track systems. But behind the scenes, it’s the pumps that quietly keep operations on track. From draining waterlogged pits to transferring fuel, removing waste oil, boosting water pressure and washing down rolling stock, pumps are essential to every stage of a project.

As civil engineering and rail projects become more ambitious and environmental conditions more demanding and unpredictable, the reliability and performance of pump systems is more crucial than ever. That’s why close collaboration between engineers, contractors and pump specialists is key. Working with a singlesource pump supplier streamlines delivery, reduces complexity and ensures performance from the ground up!

Hire or Buy? A Smarter Approach to Pump Procurement

Hiring pumps is common practice, but long-term use often makes ownership the smarter investment, especially when specialist systems like fxed water supply pumps aren’t available to hire.

The Case for Ownership: Dewatering Pumps

Dewatering pumps are among the most frequently hired pump types, essential for managing excess groundwater, rain accumulation, and general site drainage. They play a vital role in keeping sites operational. Given their frequent use, purchasing a dewatering pump instead of hiring one can ofer signifcant long-term benefts.

1. Long-Term Cost Savings

Considering hire costs can reach up to £150 per week, the cost of ownership can pay for itself after as little as three uses.

Immediate Availability

Rail projects demand fast response times and minimal downtime. By owning a submersible pump, there’s no delays waiting for equipment. Keep it stored with other essentials like generators and cutters, so you’re always prepared for the job!

3. Convenience

Avoid the admin, delivery logistics and liability risks that come with hired kit.

4. Ownership control and consistency

Owning your own pump gives you complete control over its use. You’ll know its maintenance history, performance capabilities, and can count on its reliability. With proper care your pump can serve you reliably for many years!

Rail and civil engineering work doesn’t stop for the weather, and in the UK, where rainfall is both frequent and unpredictable, having a pump on-site isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity!

The Essential Role of Multistage Pumps in Rail Operations

When it comes to pressure boosting and long-distance water delivery, multistage pumps are the ideal choice for many rail

projects. Their ability to deliver steady, high-pressure fow makes them ideal for:

• Temporary water distribution across large or elevated sites

• Permanent infrastructure such as train wash systems

• Maintenance depot water supplies

• Fire suppression and washdown operations

Whether feeding water to a pressure washer or running an entire depot system, multistage pumps ofer efciency, durability and scalability. With specifcation and support from a technical pump supplier, engineers can tailor solutions to site conditions, fow demand and future growth.

Pumps ARE Infrastructure

For rail and civil engineers, pumps are not just support tools, they’re part of the core infrastructure. The right pump

To learn more about Whisper Pumps, please visit: www.whisperpumps.com

system delivers operational resilience, cost savings and long term project control. Finding a trusted supplier, who can provide every pump type, from submersibles to multistage pumps and more, is a major advantage.

At Whisper Pumps, we’re more than just a supplier, we’re a trusted partner who understands the challenges you face, both on-site and of. With years of industry expertise and hands-on experience, we don’t just supply equipment; we deliver tailored pumping solutions that keep your operations running smoothly. Whether you need a single pump or a fully customised system, we have the knowledge and inventory to meet your needs.

So, whatever your pumping requirements, on-site or beyond, reach out to Whisper Pumps – your singlesource pump supplier who will keep your projects moving full steam ahead.

LIGHTHOUSE CHARITY INSIDE THE HELPLINE

The Lighthouse Charity provides holistic support to our UK and Ireland construction community on all aspects of emotional, physical and fnancial wellbeing. Ewan Paton, Helpline Supervisor, recently became the face of the charity’s new helpline posters. The posters highlight the huge variety of support available and are being distributed to sites across the UK and Ireland.

Q How do you assess a caller’s needs when they reach out through the helpline?

Every call is diferent and our priority is to create a safe space for them to open up and feel understood so that we can tailor our support. We start by giving the caller time to speak openly. This ensures they feel heard and often reveals more about their situation. Someone might initially call about needing counselling, but as they talk, they might mention fnancial struggles contributing to their distress. This helps us dig deeper and address the underlying issues beyond the initial request.

Q What are the most important skills you use?

Listening is the key skill. But it’s not just about hearing—it’s about understanding. Listening to understand means truly focusing on the caller and picking up on the nuances of what they’re sharing. It’s about empathy and treating people the way you’d want to be treated if you were in their shoes.

Q How do you help a caller?

Every situation is unique. Sometimes we can help with just one call; we might provide immediate support such as arranging emergency food shops, paying utility bills, or signposting to resources for tax advice. For critical needs we can expedite services such as counselling within 24 hours. For more complex cases, we gather as much information as possible in that initial call and then pass it to a caseworker who can provide more in depth assistance.

Q How do you manage crisis situations?

If someone is in immediate crisis, we begin a safeguarding process. This involves asking direct questions such as, “Do you have a plan?” or “Do you have the means to act on it?” We can then determine whether emergency services need to be involved, or it may be that we fast track counselling within 24 hours. Our goal is always to prioritise their safety while reassuring them that help is available. We’re also the point of contact for situations where callers report critical incidents on site. This can be a serious accident or death witnessed by multiple people.

Q What has been the most challenging situation you’ve dealt with?

One of the toughest moments was when I was relatively new in my role and I took a safeguarding call at 8 am. The caller was in a deeply distressed state, with emergency services already en route. Hearing the chaos in the background and knowing the caller was at immediate risk was overwhelming. Afterward, I had a debrief with my manager, which helped me process what had happened. I’m not ashamed to say I cried afterwards— it’s a natural reaction to such intense situations. Another challenging call involved a man who had sufered one hardship after another. Helping him required not only immediate support but also a long-term plan to stabilise his situation. These are the moments that stay with you, but they’re also the ones that remind you why this work is so important.

Q How do you cope dealing with so many difcult situations?

Our team prioritises self-care. After difcult calls, we have debriefs with our supervisors to talk through what happened and bring ourselves back to a grounded state. These checkins don’t stop after one session—we follow up in the days afterward. There’s also the option for us to access counselling if needed. The camaraderie within the team is incredible; we rely on each other, it really does feel like a family.

Q What advice would you give to someone who is struggling to cope or just needs to talk?

Never underestimate the power of talking. It’s important to remember that your struggles are valid and even fve minutes of sharing what’s on your mind can lift a huge weight of your shoulders. You don’t need to be in crisis to call—no problem is too small or too big. We’re here to listen. Taking that frst step to reach out is incredibly brave, and it’s our job to make sure you feel supported and heard.

Q How do you feel about being the face of the charity’s helpline posters?

Honestly, it’s an honour. Being part of the Lighthouse Charity, which is focused on giving rather than taking, is incredibly rewarding. When I see those posters, I’m proud not just of my role but of the whole team’s dedication and the impact we have on people’s lives. It’s a privilege to represent our mission.

If you or anyone you know is struggling, reach out for 24/7 free and confdential support now; 24/7 helplines; 0345 605 1956, (UK) 1800 939 122 (ROI)

Live chat www.lighthousecharity.org

Text HARDHAT to 85258 (UK) or 50808

UKCW London sets the agenda for built environment and returns to capital

UK Construction Week (UKCW) London, the UK’s largest built environment event, celebrated its most successful edition to date when it returned to ExCeL London.

The show welcomed record visitor numbers and featured a wealth of exclusive brands, an in-depth CPD-accredited education programme with over 160 hours of CPD credits, global exhibitors, and a range of innovative new features.

The biggest update to this year’s edition was the unveiling of two major new show features: HVAC+R and Onsite On Hire to showcase innovation:

● HVAC+R, focused on the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration sectors, was delivered in partnership with Datateam Business Media and supported by leading industry associations including the Building Engineering Services Association, Federation of Environmental Trade Associations, Heat Pump Association, and the Institute of Refrigeration. The event was supported by industry leaders Veissmann, Toshiba/Carrier Solutions UK, Sanha UK, Rex Nordic, Trimair and Vulcan Industries.

● Onsite On Hire, a showcase for cutting-edge plant, tool, and eco-hire solutions, made its London debut after a successful launch at UKCW Birmingham. Sponsored by Speedy Hire and supported by the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA), the feature hosted over 30 top-tier hire companies and equipment suppliers including Amorgard, Altrad Belle, Milwaukee Power Tools, Multiquip and Makita.

High-impact education and industry leadership

This year’s event placed a strong emphasis on Net Zero and industry transformation, with over 160 hours of CPD-accredited workshops and seminars, led by thought leaders including:

● Mark Reynolds, CEO, MACE

● Andrew Watkin, Transport & Estates Development Manager, Aston Villa FC

● Alan Heron, Director of Procurement, Places for People

● David Philp, Chair, CIOS Innovation Panel

● Kerry O’Driscoll, Head of Built Heritage, Blenheim Palace

Neil Gaisford, Divisional Director, Construction, remarked: “This year, UKCW London was more than just a hub for innovation and collaboration - it became a pivotal platform for shaping the future of the built environment. It marked a bold and dynamic start to our 10th anniversary celebrations, and we’re excited to build on this momentum as we look ahead to UKCW Birmingham this autumn.”

Event Highlights

● Women In Construction networking event supported by The National Association of Women in Construction and Women in property championed diversity in the sector and attracted over 100 delegates to interact and share knowledge.

● Over 300 exhibitors showcased 7,000+ products, including leading names such as JCB, Sage, Kingspan, Hahn Plastics, Fisher Future Heat, Creagh Concrete, BRE Group, and many more.

● The Sicilian Pavilion made a notable return, bringing a curated selection of high-end, family-owned interiors brands ofering marble, decorative fnishes, windows, and fooring.

● The Stone Show & Hard Surfaces co-located with UK Construction Week for the frst time ofering visitors solutions for sustainable building materials with the UK’s largest showcase of natural stone.

● Stand Awards honoured outstanding exhibition design and engagement:

- Best Space Only Stand: Sage

- Best Shell Scheme Stand: HSS Proservice

- Best Sustainability Initiative: Air Quality Improvement

- Best Marketing: BRE

Celebrating Industry Role Models

Now in its eighth year, the Role Models Campaign recognised exceptional talent and commitment across the sector, with shortlists revealed in three new categories:

Rising Star

Highlights include Emily Ray (Lorenc Design Associates), Rekiya Shodunke (Berkeley Homes), and Tegan Johnson (Charles Russell Speechlys LLP).

Pioneer

Among the nominees: Issie Barrett-Kearns (Veriforce CHAS), Joshua Cross (MV Kelly), and Carly Hughes (Immerse Safety).

Icon

Standouts include Rob Charlton (Space Group), Jodie Sawyer (Tarmac), and Joanna Brooker (C2C Group).

Winners will be announced at UKCW Birmingham this October.

Exhibitor Feedback

Roisin O’Gara, PR & Events Manager, Speedy Hire: “UKCW London has been a brilliant platform to bring our suppliers and customers together. From eight exhibitors in Birmingham to over 20 in London - we’ve seen remarkable growth.”

Will Jones, Event Lead, Octopus Energy: “This has been our most successful expo experience to date. The engagement and footfall have been exceptional.”

Adrian Wilson, UK Business Development Manager, Creagh Concrete: “We’ve connected with high-quality leads and decision-makers - exactly the outcome we hoped for.”

Maximus Hammond, Fleet Sales, Toyota: “The layout and design foster real engagement. It’s one of the best-organised events we’ve attended, and our team is already following up on promising leads.”

Looking Ahead

Dates for upcoming editions have been confrmed:

● UKCW Birmingham: 30 September – 2 October 2025

● UKCW London: 12 – 14 May 2026

Registration is now open for UKCW Birmingham

London’s Onsite On Hire, a showcase for cutting-edge plant, tool, and eco-hire solutions, made its London debut after a launch at UKCW Birmingham last October.

Sponsored by Speedy Hire and supported by the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA), the feature hosted over 30 top-tier hire companies and equipment suppliers.

Companies and brands showing at the London edition showcase of Onsite On Hire included Air Spectrum Environmental, a UK-based company specialising in air quality management solutions. With over 30 years of experience, the company provides innovative products and services for dust suppression, odour control, and air pollution monitoring their solutions help businesses comply with regulations while promoting cleaner air and healthier workplaces.

Altrad Belle showed examples of their light equipment for the Building and Construction markets with an emphasis on their latest range of battery technology equipment. Ardent Hire said to be the UK’s largest Telehandler and Roto Telehandler specialist, a new exhibitor at the show, is setting the standard in innovation and excellence by harnessing cutting-edge technologies such as AI, advanced telematics, and endto-end feet management solutions. Additionally, they ofer a comprehensive range of attachments and ancillaries to maximize the functionality and versatility of the equipment. For over 35 years, Armorgard has been designing and manufacturing leading products for secure tool storage, efcient manual handling and improved site safety. With the growing use of Lithium-ion batteries, they have launched two products that help safely and securely store and charge Lithium-ion batteries: PowerStor and VoltHub both featuring exclusive ‘F.I.R.E.E.’ technology. This is the world’s frst proactive and reactive system, designed to keep Lithiumion batteries safe while charging. Both have already been implemented in 100s of sites across the UK.

Conquip joined London’s Onsite On Hire at UK Construction Week. They provide straightforward equipment rental for many major operators in the plant sector, and direct to groundworkers, infrastructure, housebuilders, RC frame, customers, from the manufacturer. Conquip Engineering’s hire service ofers everything from excavator and forklift

attachments, lifting equipment, concrete solutions, site set-up and storage to bulk excavation, temporary loading platforms & trench shoring.

Also a frst time exhibitor at Onsite On Hire The Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) is the leading membership and representative body for construction planthire in the UK. Established for 85 years, the CPA has 1,900+ members - ranging from owner operators with a single machine, through to the largest companies in the industry, with hire feets of thousands of machines. Dustcontrol’s main task is to facilitate efcient production, increased productivity and a cleaner working environment for their customers and sell products and customised solutions that allow the customer to focus on their production. Exhibitor Garic provide sustainable site solutions, helping partners across the infrastructure, public sector, utilities and construction sectors to plan and manage work sites. They ofer sustainable energy generation, with market-leading welfare units, and with simple, reliable risk management. GroundGuards were on show to explain how their innovative plastic mats provide a durable, non-slip surface that protects the ground from heavy vehicles, equipment and foot trafc. They spread the weight of vehicles and machinery, preventing ground damage and allowing access over soft or sensitive ground. They are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood boards. Husqvarna Construction, part of Husqvarna Group, a leading manufacturer of innovative equipment and diamond tools within the light construction industry were on hand with a selection of the latest products, working with hard materials like concrete and stone to shape urban environments of tomorrow. JCB, with largest stand at Onsite On Hire, were showing an electric mini digger from their range of electric-powered equipment. Kärcher Hire rent out a wide range of modern Kärcher equipment and have grown to become one of the largest cleaning equipment hire companies in the UK.

Liftroller were showing products that create faster, easier and safer transportation of materials into buildings, including cantilevered loading platforms, high lift pallet jacks and electronic goods wagons. Another frst time exhibitor at the show was Mace Industries a leading supplier of portable conveyors and hoists to the UK market, with machines widely recognised as essential equipment in top hire outlets. As the ofcial UK distributor for the globally renowned GEDA construction hoists and passenger lifts, Mace can provide industry-leading solutions designed for safety, efciency, and reliability. GEDA hoists are trusted across construction sites for their superior performance, making material and personnel transport seamless.

Well-known power tool brand Makita were showing their latest battery-powered equipment including the everincreasing range of XGT 40vMax cordless product. Makita’s XGT® platform is designed to outpower, outsmart, and outlast. If visitors to the show were looking to hire Road Trafc Control Equipment, Groundworks and Access Equipment, Crane and Forklift Accessories or Ground Protection and Temporary Roadways - Marwood Group were available to help nationwide from their 16 depots and on the road representatives! Another power tool giant, Milwaukee®, as one of the world’s leading tool manufacturers and suppliers, has users covered with professional Power Tools for just about every occasion where users need Sawing and Cutting Tools for woodworking or Drilling or Chipping Tools for a construction project. Another new Onsite On Hire exhibitor was Multiquip UK, a market leader in the distribution of light to medium size construction equipment. Its extensive product line includes: Power trowels, Rammers, Plate compactors, Dry cut saws, Concrete pumping, Cutting, placing and fnishing equipment, Dust suppression tools, Vacuum lifters, Material handling products and much more. As a leading specialist provider of powered access rental equipment Nationwide Platforms were showcasing equipment from the largest and broadest feet covering the entire country. From 3m to 90m with a range of boom lifts, scissors lifts, van and truck mounts, telehandlers and tracked booms. New Era Energy is a forward-thinking fuel services provider, delivering nationwide, next-day tracked deliveries with precision, reliability, and speed. One of their key initiatives is a Tank Restoration service, helping customers repurpose and extend the life of existing infrastructure. By restoring and reusing tanks, it reduces environmental impact, supporting smarter energy management and contributing to a more circular economy. Taking one of the largest stands at Onsite On Hire Oaklands Plastics is an established, market leading company that designs and manufactures an extensive range of products for the construction, trafc management, utility, rail and hire industries.

Oaklands is a UK recognised industry specialist in rotational moulded and blow moulded products. When it comes to quality products, special industry requirements, custom designs and rapid timescales, the company is the preferred partner in a variety of markets. Blending innovation with engineering excellence,exhibitor POP UP Products solve a wide range of

access issues with safe, simple solutions. Exhibitor PramacGenerac provides a fexible range of products, from portable to industrial solutions, for standby and continuous applications, including battery energy storage systems.

Pramac’s rental solutions address temporary power supply needs, ofering mobile generators, battery storage systems, light towers, and dust control systems. Showing for the frst time was Solar Hybrid Solutions. They help businesses cut fuel costs and slash emissions with high-performance solar-hybrid generators. T&M Bowser Solutions provide comprehensive services. With over 35 years of experience, their feet is designed to perform in the most remote and challenging environments with custom-built bowsers featuring an innovative fuelling system that helps to signifcantly reduce refuelling times. Another major supplier at the show was Tyrolit – a world leading manufacturer of grinding, abrasives, dressing tools and system provider for the construction industry. Next generation manufacturer of access equipment UTS were showing for the frst time. Safety when working at heights is the top priority at UTS. That’s why as a leading manufacturer of access equipment, they are committed to providing high quality aluminium products that meet the highest safety standards.

Exhibitors at Onsite On Hire also included Wacker Neuson, a leading global manufacturer of high-quality light and compact equipment. With a highly professional spare parts service, the Wacker Neuson Group is the partner of choice across a broad spectrum of industries, serving in particular customers in the construction, gardening and landscaping. The product brands Wacker Neuson, Kramer, Weidemann and Enar belong to the Wacker Neuson Group.

Western Global, a world leader in fuel storage, with a 63year history of helping customers store, move, and dispense fuel. Western Global is also a go-to for water supply needs. Their robust, ready-to-use water bowsers can be confgured in multiple ways from pressure washer solutions to plant watering. ZND Group manufactures temporary fencing solutions for the construction iIndustry, ensuring public protection from construction hazards, demarcation, and crowd control. With 5 manufacturing facilities across 2 continents, ZND’s innovative solutions are used at prestigious sites and events globally. Renowned for quality and durability, ZND’s products are branded under the name Smartweld.

Life with Lana // Right Tools for the Job

Good equipment can make or break a job, and that is certainly the big topic of conversation with Lana Edwards this month.

“I’m enjoying my machine with the ‘spinny’ bucket… what a sad ol’ girl I am!”

This inspirational, if slightly untrue quote (you’re not old Lana, stop being silly!) sparked the inspiration for this month’s iteration of Life with Lana. That, and a fantastic video of Lana using said ‘spinny’ bucket to full efect (it’s on her LinkedIn, go check it out!). It made us here at PP wonder… how does having the best tools change a work life day to day? Of course, you automatically assume it will make things super easy and uncomplicated, but we want to hear from the best to reach a fnal verdict, thank you very much!

So, the ‘spinny’ bucket in question is a Steelwrist X26 Tiltrotator attached to a Hitatchi 225-7 excavator. The Steelwrist website details it as such: “‘The Steelwrist X26 tiltrotator is designed to deliver the power and durability that is a must for excavators of this size. Our tiltrotators have a low building height, high tilt angle and an unbeatable relationship between strength and weight thanks to steel cast components.”

A tiltrotator for the heavy-duty tasks

“Our X26 tiltrotator is perfect for heavy-duty tasks in road work, foundation digging, earthmoving and demolition in large construction projects. The X26 tiltrotator enhances the efciency of the excavator as it enables you to rotate a work tool 360 degrees and tilt 45 degrees in each direction, with top of the class precision and controllability. This facilitates your work and makes you fexible to take on a variety of challenging new jobs.

“Steelwrist quick couplers and tiltrotators follow the symmetrical standard (S-standard), the fastest growing coupler type internationally. The attachment coupler on the tiltrotator has Front Pin Lock (FPL) safety solution, a mechanical lock of the front shaft which signifcantly limits the risk of an unintended drop of work tools.

The tiltrotator is delivered with a control system that fts your excavator regardless if you need a two or four hose solution. With a tiltrotator that has high fow hydraulics you will be able to use the tiltrotator in a more fuel efcient way and it allows for efcient use of high fow work tools. A robust and easily calibrated Absolute Rotation sensor in the high fow swivel gives high accuracy data to Machine Control Systems.

“A Sandwich confguration is often chosen for this size of excavators. This means that a quick coupler is mounted on the excavator arm, making it possible to disconnect the tiltrotator and pick up and connect a work tool directly.”

Steelwrist SQ auto connection system and the Open-S standard

“Steelwrist SQ is our high performing automatic oil connection technology used to easily change and connect hydraulic work tools on the excavator. All SQ products comply with the Open-S standard. This means that the SQ system is designed to be able to connect to other brands following the Open-S standard. S-type tiltrotators (from S50 and up) are upgradeable to SQ-type at a later stage.”

Control system

“Steelwrist supply two types of tiltrotator control systems. Quantum is an advanced control system where ergonomics, easy installation and fuel efciency, remote support and automatic tool recognition are important parts of the system. The four hose proportional machine control is the more basic system.”

Lana is known to love a Hitatchi, given that the original Lady Lana was also a 225-, so how does the spinning bucket change the operation of her favoured machine? If anyone is going to be able to compare performance, it’s our Lana.

“In a word? It’s FANTASTIC!” Lana told us excitedly. “It’s like

going from working in 2D to 4D. Never mind 3D. The bucket is capable of achieving any position, so an operator can work in a much wider scope. It opens up so many possibilities. It meant when I was road working, I was able to consistently average a 3mm lay, even though the road was climbing and winding. And that was without GPS!

“It also really aids in independent work. I don’t need to rely on people on the ground to guide me in quite the same way, so it makes the job a lot safer for everyone. It’s exhausting, mind you, and I’ll admit I’m absolutely knackered, but it’s so rewarding.”

Knackered, we hear you cry? How can something that enables a much easier job be knackering?

Well we’ll explain… just be patient!

“All the capability of the machine means that you have an entirely new skillset to learn all of a sudden,” explains Lana. “People wrongly assume, especially on social media I might add, that the bucket has some kind of mind of its own and does your thinking for you. That’s absolutely not the case at all. It tests my ability, because it will continue to go as far as I can. And I have to say, I enjoy learning the ropes so much.”

In our eyes, it’s not about what the bucket can do, but what the operator can do with the bucket. We all know that Lana is one of, if not THE most skilled operator in the UK, (which she

will try to argue is not so, but she’s not writing the article so she can’t argue with us). So, if anyone can get the most from this incredible piece of equipment, it’s her. That being said, she makes an excellent point that you still need your wits about you to use it.

There seems to be a real divide when it comes to tech in construction. So many of the long standing people in construction seem to fear new technology, particularly any form of machine control. The argument is, is that skills are lost because new operators rely far too much on the machine’s capabilities and not their own, so the knowledge of the ages is lost. But we must all remember, these machines are not self driving. They’re nothing better than a super snazzy paperweight without an operator in the driving seat. It’s simply a new way of learning.

“There are operations that this bucket can achieve that even the most skilled of operators couldn’t do with a standard attachment. No matter how long they took, no matter the skill, it simply wouldn’t happen. Believe me. But the bucket makes this possible. We can do more now. There’s no point in fearing new technology. It’s only going to make us better.”

Quite incredibly, at the time of writing this article, Lana has only had this tiltrotator for 5 weeks, and it seems like each and every day, our favourite operator becomes more and more enthralled.

“To be honest, I’ve believed in these buckets since I frst tried one about 15 years ago. It took me all of 30 seconds to realise what an opportunity this kit would provide. And even now, at my age, I am embracing and enjoying learning new things. I always will.”

We hear you loud and clear, Lana.

Don’t be afraid of the future; let it aid your advancement. And for goodness sake, would you stop calling yourself old!

Plant Equipment that Pays for Itself

AI INNOVATION LEADS SAFETY

SHIELD GLOBAL’S DEVELOPMENT OF LIFE-SAVING TECHNOLOGIES

Innovation and determination continue to shape and inspire the Safety Shield Global team as they lead the way in delivering stateof-the-art Human Form Recognition software for construction and heavy plant industries.

In a world where science rarely sleeps, Safety Shield’s experts understand the need for constant research and development as they seek to maintain their position as world leaders in the design and manufacture of collision-avoidance technology.

A product which was 15 years in the making and originally developed to improve the safety of construction sites is now regarded as the most advanced AI HFR system on the market and has recently expanded its deployment into the rail industry, waste and recycling, agriculture, forestry, warehousing and logistics.

With an accuracy measure of 99.6% and a 70% reduction in incidents on sites where it has been utilised, you could possibly forgive SSG for thinking their job was done. However, company founder and creator Jonathan Guest, has other ideas.

Following the death of a close friend who was crushed by an excavator, Jonathan has dedicated his career to the goal of eradicating worksite collision deaths. And as technology improves and science continues to open new doors, he and his team are determined to continue on their path.

The frst ever Safety Shield – a warning system to alert heavy plant operators when a human form is in close proximity to the machinery – was launched in 2018 after more than a decade of working alongside government ofcials, research institutes, transport authorities and construction companies.

The product is now utilised across the globe, and thanks to the sheer speed and level of AI advancement, it continues to both evolve and improve.

Determined to completely eradicate incidents of death and injury from environments where heavy plant machinery continues to pose a danger to vulnerable workers, Jonathan is keen to make the most of such technological advancements.

“After a 15-year journey, our dream of enhancing safety in workplaces has become a reality over the past four years,” he said. “Our primary goal has been to minimize collisions involving individuals and moving machinery, ultimately saving lives. The implementation of Safety Shield technology has resulted in an impressive average reduction of 70% in incidents on sites where it is utilised.

“Our AI model at Safety Shield stands out in the plant and machinery industry, boasting a remarkable accuracy rate of 99.6%. Such unparalleled precision is a direct result of our extensive data utilisation for model training which allows the model to learn more complex patterns and make more accurate predictions.

“Despite this success, our commitment to innovation remains unwavering. We are dedicated to transforming behaviours on sites until we achieve our ultimate objective of zero harm.

“The UK has been at the forefront of introducing AI technology to the plant and machinery market, aiming to minimise incidents and enhance safety measures and as a result of our success here, we have been able to expand operations to various countries across Europe as well as in the USA, Canada, and Australia.

“The notable adoption of this technology by UK frms has catalysed its global implementation. I am proud to say that SSG is now dedicated to mitigating risks associated with people and machinery on a truly global scale.”

Such impressive worldwide reach has undoubtedly been aided by last year’s presentation of a King’s Award for Enterprise: Innovation – an honour which saw Jonathan invited down to Windsor Castle where he met King Charles III.

Being endorsed by the King of England tends to have some sway when you are looking to do business in North America and Jonathan accepts it represented a boost to both him personally and to the company as a whole.

“It was a huge honour being granted The King’s Awards for Enterprise: Innovation,” he said. “The award is testament to the unwavering commitment, energy, and passion of our team and since receiving this prestigious award, our horizons have expanded signifcantly.

“We have garnered considerable attention from international markets, including the USA, Canada, Australia and the Netherlands. Companies from these regions have expressed keen interest in our product, drawn to us by the distinction of the King’s award.

“Furthermore, our local Member of Parliament highlighted our achievements in the House of Commons, recognizing us as trailblazers in AI innovation for safety. This acknowledgment positions us as pioneers in the feld and underscores our potential to support the government’s initiatives, particularly in the realm of AI growth zones.

“The King’s award has not only elevated our profle but

has also solidifed our standing as a leading authority in AI technology for safety on a global scale.”

The aim now is to build on that success by utilising the very latest AI technology advancements to ensure SSG products remain state-of-the-art. It is a continual process and one which will soon result in the launch of a ‘plug-and-play’ SaaS model, enabling seamless integration of its software with any existing camera system available on the market.

Close collaboration with leading equipment manufacturers will enable SSG to implement this cutting-edge technology into their plant and, by doing so, slash hardware expenses for end-users and streamline the installation processes to less than an hour.

Being able to incorporate their software into any current electronic control unit and camera set-up will transform conventional monitoring systems into industry-leading AI collision-avoidance solutions.

But the innovation won’t stop there.

The King’s award has not only elevated our profile but has also solidified our standing as a leading authority in AI technology for safety on a global scale

IN THEIR TRACKS STOP ACCIDENTS

Take control of on-site safety with Safety Shield

Safety Shield is the only solution that:

• Has proven records of on-site and independent testing

• Is based on 10+ years of research & development

• Has UK and European testing and certiﬁcation

• Has gained relevant ISO standards

• Has a 99.6% accuracy rate

Winner of the King’s Award for Enterprise: Innovation

Mandated by tier 1 contractors and on projects including Balfour Beatty and Anglian Water

Simon Bailey, Head of Research & Development at Safety Shield is under no illusions that he and his colleagues will need to have their wits about them if they are to stay ahead of the feld and keep up to date with the rapid rate of AI technology improvements.

“Over the past decade, artifcial intelligence has undergone a remarkable transformation,” he says. “Once confned to academic labs and experimental use cases, AI is now deeply integrated into everyday technology.

“Major leaps in machine learning, computer vision, and edge processing have made it possible to deploy intelligent systems in real-time, real-world environments – without relying on cloud infrastructure or large-scale computing power.

“As a result, AI is no longer just predictive – it’s responsive, adaptive, and increasingly accurate in dynamic conditions. At SSG, these advancements have directly infuenced the evolution of our human form recognition product.”

The key for Simon is being able to spot which aspect of AI development has the potential to make a diference –and an improvement – to the Safety Shield product.

It is such an important aspect of the company’s future, that essential R&D time is programmed into their working week to ensure that all potential advantages are spotted, tested and then adapted to their advantage.

“One key improvement has been the integration of advanced computer vision models, which enable our system to accurately detect and classify human shapes in a wide range of environments – be it harsh outdoor conditions or cluttered industrial scenes,” he adds. “This has signifcantly reduced false positives and improved the reliability of our safety alerts.

“Secondly, the development of low-power, highperformance edge AI processors has allowed us to move intelligence from the cloud to the device. Our units can now process data locally, ensuring faster detection, lower latency, and greater data privacy.

“This edge-based capability also means our systems continue to operate even when network connectivity is disrupted – an essential feature in remote or high-risk work environments.

“Staying ahead in a fast-moving feld like AI and computer vision requires a proactive and deliberate approach to innovation. At SSG, we’ve built a culture of continuous improvement, with dedicated R&D time set aside specifcally to evaluate emerging technologies, benchmark performance gains, and test compatibility with our systems.”

Of course, not all advancements will be of use to the Safety Shield product, but through knowledge, experience and well-forged partnerships with tech providers, they work tirelessly to ensure those which could deliver a potential improvement are exploited to the very maximum.

“Our team closely monitors advancements in AI frameworks, edge processing chipsets, and camera sensor technologies, ensuring that we’re always working with the most efcient and powerful tools available,” said Simon. “We also maintain close relationships with key suppliers and tech partners, giving us early access to development roadmaps and beta releases. This allows us to plan upgrades strategically, integrate new hardware as it becomes viable, and fne-tune our software to extract maximum performance.

“Ultimately, it’s about aligning innovation with purpose – choosing upgrades that meaningfully enhance the performance, reliability, and usability of our product for customers in safety-critical environments.

“Looking ahead, the future of AI-powered safety systems like ours lies in greater autonomy, deeper contextual understanding, and seamless integration with other technologies.

“Over the next fve to ten years, we expect our system to evolve from being a detection tool to a more intelligent decision-making assistant – capable not just of identifying human presence, but of understanding behaviours, predicting risks, and adapting to complex environments in real time.”

Things have certainly come a long way from the very early days of Safety Shield’s evolution where an RFID sensor and helmet tag system were used to alert operators when a member of the workforce was walking into their machine’s danger zone.

The introduction of Artifcial Intelligence was a game-changer for the team and after more than a decade of extensive development, the full Human Form Recognition system was fnally launched – acting as a third eye for the operator by sending visual and audible alerts to the control cab when a human form stands within the amber (outer) zone or more

serious red (inner) zone. Close to 20,000 plant and machinery have now been ftted with the technology, while its reliability has been confrmed through six ISO certifcations.

Not only does it act as a warning system, but the AI model also works alongside a cloud-based monitoring system to ensure that every triggered alert is sent to a data centre which keeps records, video footage and incident logs.

Identifying trends and spotting specifc issues, the programmes have proven essential in delivering best practice when it comes to the on-site health and safety of workforces.

And as AI improves, so does the system.

“One key development area we are looking at is multimodal AI – where vision, sound, and even environmental sensors are combined to give systems a richer understanding of what’s happening around them,” said Simon. “This will allow for smarter alerting, more accurate threat assessment, and better collaboration with human operators.

Ultimately, AI is steering us toward a future where proactive safety becomes embedded and instinctive in all machinery – preventing accidents before they happen

“In parallel, advances in edge AI and 5G connectivity will open up new possibilities for instant communication between machines and infrastructure, enabling fully networked safety ecosystems across entire job sites or feets.

“Ultimately, AI is steering us toward a future where proactive safety becomes embedded and instinctive in all machinery –preventing accidents before they happen, rather than simply responding after the fact. And at SSG, we’re committed to being right at the forefront of that transformation.”

While he is confdent that the enhancements of AI will continue to enable the development and improvement of site safety there is, however, a warning against an over-reliance on AI technology.

“AI has come an incredibly long way, but it’s important to recognise that it is not a silver bullet,” he added. “While AI-driven systems like ours can drastically reduce the risk of collisions and enhance operator awareness, there are always factors that technology alone cannot control: human behaviour, environmental unpredictability, and mechanical limitations,

to name a few. So, while we’re optimistic about the power of AI to transform site safety, we’re also realistic about its role as part of a wider safety strategy.

“Rather than aiming for a “perfect” system, we focus on continual improvement – developing technology that’s increasingly robust, increasingly adaptive, and increasingly intuitive. We believe that over time, AI will get us incredibly close to the goal of zero harm.

“With predictive analytics, self-learning algorithms, and greater integration between human operators and machines, the future will be one where the chances of a serious incident are vanishingly small. But achieving this will take a combination of innovation, education, and a strong commitment to safety culture across the industry.”

www.safetyshieldglobal.com

FOR ALL PLANT & OFF ROAD MACHINERY British Manufacturers

QUALITY LUBRICANTS

A wide range of award winning lubricants and greases, maximising performance, helping reduce CO2 emissions and extending the life of vehicles and equipment, whatever the operating conditions.

The Evolving World of Lubricants for Plant, Agricultural & Commercial Vehicles

Lubricants play a critical role in the longevity and efficiency of engines, especially for vehicles in the agriculture, off-highway, and commercial sectors. As the technology behind vehicles in these industries evolves, so too do the lubricants designed to keep them running smoothly.

Recent innovations in lubricant formulations are addressing new challenges posed by stricter emissions regulations, more demanding workloads, and increasingly sophisticated machinery. Leading manufacturer of lubricants and supplier of greases of coolants, the Witham Group have been trading for over 104 years and know the importance and commitment to innovation. Here they explain more about keeping pace with these crucial developments…

1. ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS & EMISSION STANDARDS

Governments worldwide are enforcing stricter emissions regulations for of-highway and commercial vehicles, which include farm machinery, trucks, and construction equipment. In response, vehicle manufacturers are producing engines with advanced emissions control systems. These engines require lubricants that not only provide superior protection but also work seamlessly with emissions reduction technologies like diesel particulate flters (DPFs) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems.

Low-ash and low-sulphur lubricants, which are less likely to clog these emissions systems, are becoming more common. Lubricants like low SAPS oils (Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, and Sulphur) are now essential, especially for vehicles that must comply with Tier 4 or Euro VI emission standards. These lubricants not only help reduce emissions but also enhance fuel efciency, which is critical for lowering the overall operating costs of heavy-duty vehicles.

2. EXTENDED DRAIN INTERVALS & DURABILITY

Farmers and feet managers are demanding more from their machinery in terms of operational hours and reliability. Extended drain intervals, which reduce the frequency of oil changes, have become a key selling point for modern lubricants. In high-pressure environments like agriculture, downtime for maintenance can signifcantly impact productivity, so lubricants designed to last longer between changes provide valuable time savings.

Manufacturers are developing synthetic lubricants that not only withstand higher temperatures but also resist oxidation and degradation over longer periods. These lubricants retain their viscosity and protective properties for extended intervals, reducing the number of oil changes required, which in turn lowers maintenance costs and increases vehicle uptime.

3. ADVANCED PROTECTION FOR HEAVY LOADS

Of-highway vehicles and farm machinery often operate under extreme conditions-heavy loads, variable weather, and dusty or muddy environments. The lubricants for these vehicles must provide superior protection against wear, corrosion, and contamination. Modern lubricants are designed to create stronger protective flms and are enhanced with anti-wear additives like zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP), which helps protect engine components from the high-pressure stress caused by heavy loads.

Additionally, lubricants are increasingly resistant to the challenges posed by contaminants like dirt and water, which are common in agricultural and of-highway environments. New formulations include advanced detergents and dispersants that help keep engines cleaner by preventing sludge formation and removing harmful deposits.

4. MULTI-FUNCTIONAL LUBRICANTS

Agricultural vehicles like tractors, cranes and lifting equipement often have combined hydraulic and transmission systems. In these cases, using a single lubricant that can protect both the engine and the transmission is highly advantageous. Multifunctional lubricants are now being developed to perform multiple roles in vehicles, reducing the need for separate fuids for engines, hydraulics, and gearboxes.

These multi-functional lubricants simplify maintenance procedures, reduce inventory costs for farmers, and ensure that all vehicle systems operate smoothly, even under the challenging conditions of farm work.

5. BIO-BASED AND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY LUBRICANTS

Sustainability is increasingly becoming a priority across industries, including agriculture and construction. Bio-based lubricants, derived from renewable resources like vegetable oils, are emerging as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional petroleum-based products. These lubricants are biodegradable and non-toxic, making them less harmful to the environment in case of leaks or spills, which is particularly important in agricultural operations where soil and water contamination can be detrimental.

While bio-based lubricants still face challenges in terms of performance and cost compared to synthetic and mineral oils, advancements are continually being made to improve their temperature stability and oxidation resistance, making them more viable for heavy-duty applications.

6. HYBRID AND ELECTRIC VEHICLES IN AGRICULTURE

Though still in the early stages, the shift towards hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) in the agriculture and commercial sectors is driving the need for new types of lubricants. Electric engines require specialized lubricants for cooling and electrical insulation. As more manufacturers introduce hybrid systems for agricultural vehicles, lubricants will need to adapt to these new types of powertrains, providing both conventional lubrication and cooling capabilities for electric motors and batteries.

7. WHAT WILL THE FUTURE HOLD?

The future of lubricants in agriculture, of-highway, and commercial vehicles is increasingly shaped by the dual forces of sustainability and technology. As emissions standards tighten and machinery becomes more complex, lubricants are evolving to meet these demands with advanced formulations that enhance durability, protect against extreme conditions, and reduce environmental impact. The continued development of bio-based alternatives and synthetic options will ensure that these industries remain both efcient and environmentally responsible.

These innovations are not only keeping pace with the changing nature of vehicle technology but also setting the standard for improved performance and sustainability in the years ahead.

The future of lubricants in agriculture, off-highway, and commercial vehicles is increasingly shaped by the dual forces of sustainability and technology.

8. HOW WELL IS WITHAM GROUP PLACED TO KEEP PACE WITH THIS CHANGE?

The Witham Group is well-positioned for the next chapter in lubricant technology due to several key factors:

HERITAGE AND EXPERTISE

With over 104 years of experience, the Witham Group has a deep understanding of the lubricant industry. Established in 1921, the company has grown into a respected manufacturer of lubricants and paints, with a focus on quality and innovation. This strong foundation allows Witham to adapt to new technological advancements while maintaining its reputation for reliability and performance.

COMMITMENT

TO INNOVATION

Witham Group has consistently invested in research and development to stay ahead of technological advancements. For example, the company has developed a growing range of environmentally friendly products, such as its Prolan range, along with a unique blending process using solar and ultrasound. This innovative approach extends to other lubricants, where focus is on creating solutions that meet the latest engine requirements, such as low-emission standards and extended oil and coolant life.

OEM AND INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS

Witham works closely with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) lubricant additive companies and key industry bodies such as the UEIL, UKLA and VLS to ensure its products meet evolving technical standards. By obtaining necessary certifcations and approvals from OEMs, Witham ensures that its lubricants are suitable for modern machinery and vehicles, including those used in agriculture, of-highway, and commercial sectors.

SUSTAINABILITY & REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

The company is well-prepared to meet increasing regulatory demands for more sustainable and eco-friendly products. As environmental regulations around emissions and chemical safety continue to tighten, Witham’s focus on creating lowsulphur, low-ash lubricants positions it favourably. Additionally, the company adheres to important standards like REACH, ensuring their products comply with European safety and environmental regulations.

TECHNOLOGICAL ADAPTABILITY

As hybrid and electric vehicle technologies become more prevalent, particularly in agriculture and commercial sectors, lubricant manufacturers must evolve. The Witham Group has demonstrated an ability to adapt to new vehicle technologies and the changing landscape of powertrains by producing advanced synthetic lubricants that support both traditional and emerging engine types. Witham is also working with some OEMs on lubricants for their hydrogen innovations.

With its century-long experience, commitment to innovation, strategic partnerships, and adherence to regulatory and environmental standards, the Witham Group is well-positioned to thrive in the evolving lubricant industry. Their readiness to embrace the next phase of lubricant technology ensures that they will continue to be a key player in providing highperformance solutions for agricultural, of-highway, and commercial vehicles.

Bauma, the world’s leading trade show for construction machinery and equipment, as well as construction vehicles, mining machinery… and more, returned to Munich in 2025 for its 34th year!

With over 3,600 exhibitors from 57 nations, and over 600,000 visitors, it was easy to get lost, but even easier to be absorbed into the wondrous sights of innovation, tech and machinery.

BAUMA 2025

By Lorna Cowlin

It’s still crazy to me now to think I can just fy out to amazing places like Munich and get to call it work. bauma was a tough ride, without a doubt, and certainly knackered me out, but flled me with equal parts adrenaline, excitement and child-like joy. The show spread across 614,000m2, which is just beyond mind-blowing to me – I still can’t get my head around how large it was! For a small girl from the British countryside, I certainly felt small in comparison, but never did I feel out of my depth. I was ready to get going, beyond excited to begin!

Stefan Rummel, CEO of Messe München, was beyond ecstatic with bauma’s success, delighted with how they “hosted around 600,000 visitors from more than 200 countries and regions.” The tradeshow “is the heartbeat of the industry and has once again shown how crucial exchange and personal encounters are for progress and global trade. The Munich exhibition center sends out a strong signal of confdence for the entire industry.”

DAY ONE

I think it’s safe to say, day one was a baptism of fre. First stop was Magni. We had been invited to their press conference with Riccardo Magni himself. What a way to start the week!

The press conference allowed them to announce all the new machinery they were planning on launching, and to which markets, as well as answering any questions the panel had.

Notable new launches were:

- NEW Mid-Range Th Models: Th 3,5.7 & Th 3,5.9

- NEW Rth 6.31 Tc (Tilting Cab)

- NEW Hth 25.11

- Tp 4,5.10 Platform

- Full Power Mode

- Vertical Lift & Horizontal Placement

- NEW Forklift Models

- NEW Ac+ Scissor Lifts

However, the highlight of the entire conference was that we got goodie bags – sorry, merchandise (use your big girl job terms Lorna!) – and inside our bags was a box of Magni Lego, from which we could build our own Magni Forklift! It was the cutest thing ever. And it was the best way to not only start our Monday, but to start the week!

Once we had wrapped up at Magni, we set out to explore the outside exhibitions more, and blimey…

The skyline was flled with cranes and fags, busybody business people were racing around and families were wandering about, ooh-ing and ahh-ing at all the stands. I squinted at the bright, sunny landscape in front of me, my eyes not quite able to take it all in.

And that’s when my gaze fell on the Liebherr stand.

Sadly, I cannot repeat my frst reaction, as it’s not print friendly! However, it was something along the lines of: “Wow, that’s quite a large stand!”

When I say large, oh I mean LARGE. It was at least three storeys tall, had several receptions, a shop that had a sea of people queuing to get into, and cranes galore framing the racecourse-sized stand. To put it in technical terms, they had 14,000m2 of exhibition space with 70 exhibits live and in action. Madness!

Here, Liebherr had endless amounts of machinery on display. With their bauma motto “Hands on the Future”, Liebherr demonstrated how they are actively taking the future into their own hands. Stefen Günther, a member of the Board of Directors of Liebherr-International AG, said: “At bauma, we showcased a number of important future topics, such as drive technology and autonomy. For us, bauma is much more than just a trade fair—it is the platform where the future of the industry is made tangible.”

Head over to thei Liebherr website to read and download the full product programme!

Their main focal points were:

Tower Cranes

- 250 EC-B 10 Fibre

- 520 EC-B 20 Fibre

- 620 HC-L 18/36

Crawler Excavators/Loaders/Dozers

- R 998 SME (Excavator)

- PR 716 G8

- Pe 776 G8

Articulated Dumper Truck

- TA 230

Wheeled Loaders/Excavators

- L 504 Compact (Loader)

- A 909 Compact (Excavator)

Telescopic Handlers

- T 48-8s

- T 33-10s

- T 42-7s

Mining Excavator

- R 9400 E

Mining Truck

- T 264 Battery Electric

Crawler Cranes

- LTR 1150

- LR 1300.2 SX unplugged

- LR 1400.1 SX Derrick

Mobile Cranes

- LTM 1055-3.3

- LTM 1120-4.2

- MK 120-5.1E

Once I had stopped gawking at the never-ending Liebherr stand, we moved on to Kinshofer. Whilst my sales colleague was here to discuss important business matters, I found myself quite distracted by the demonstration venue where the Kinshofer machines were performing to Rammstein. Now, as a metal music fanatic, I loved this, however, it felt even more poetic to hear the German metal band Rammstein whilst in Germany. So, I spent most of my time watching the heavy machinery perform a brand-new kind of ballet to German heavy metal. Chef’s kiss!

However, I was also there to take note of the kind of machinery they were displaying, not just the pretty twirls they were doing. Kinshofer Group, located in Germany, is a leading manufacturer of attachments for truck cranes and excavators. At bauma, they displayed:

- Hydraulic shears

- Auger drives

- Fork carriages

- Excavator and loader buckets

- Quick coupling systems

- Grabs

- Hydraulic hammers, cutters and crushers

- Tiltrotators

- Track-laying machines

- Orange peel, wood and sorting grabs

- Clamshell buckets

- Attachments for cranes

To wrap up our frst day, we fnished up in the North outdoor exhibition, visiting LiuGong. This felt like a lovely, familiar trip to a second home, as we saw their BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) range, which gave us fashbacks to our trip to visit LiuGong’s HQ in Poland, where Managing Editor, Rebecca Phillips, few out to attend their exclusive BEV Experience back in July 2024. To see the BEV range again was so thrilling, especially at a show where sustainability and electric machinery was highly celebrated. In the BEV range, they were able to showcase their wheel loaders (models: 820TE, 838TE, 848TE, 856HE, 870HE), excavators (models: 9018FE, 9027FE, 922FE, 922FE (cable), 956FE (dual power)), mining trucks (models: DR50CE, DW105AE), graders (model: 4280DE), rollers (model: 6622EE), forklifts (models: CPD15, CPD18, CPD20, CPD25, CPD45, CPD50, CPD100), and aerial work platforms (models: LS0507EM, LS060SE, LA14JE, LA16JE).

Phew! Have I lost you yet? No? Good! Let’s continue. LiuGong also showcased their next-generation T-Series wheel loaders, and comprehensive solutions for quarrying, mining, and demolition. Needless to say, LiuGong were very busy and did not come empty handed!

…and I didn’t leave empty handed! With my arms flled with brochures, pamphlets and programmes, we fnished our frst day and headed back to our hotel where I played the fun game of ‘How to Pack All These Books in my Suitcase’.

DAY TWO

I slept like a log Monday night. Absolute bliss. Arguably, day two was my favourite of the week. It felt so positive, everyone was happy, and it reminded me that no matter how many steps you do, how tired you feel, shows like bauma are electric, and the feeling is contagious.

The electric feeling was especially felt at Topcon’s stand, where we were invited on for drinks before meeting with Joe Gleeson. It’s so easy to feel immensely motivated when the conversations you have are inspiring, and our conversation with Joe was just that.

Not only that, but Topcon’s stand was mind blowing. My inner F1 fan was squealing at the simulators at the front of their stand. When we walked onto their stand, it felt like we were entering an alternate dimension. We were surrounded by blue lights, new technology, and diferent pods representing the diferent sectors and branding of the company. With their slogan “Building Tomorrow”, it was very apparent that is their exact aim, because it felt like I had just stepped into ‘tomorrow’.

Sharing their latest technological innovations, Topcon takes pride in their cutting-edge solutions and comprehensive ecosystem that guide their customers through the most challenging projects. They ofered services and solutions in:

- Earthmoving with MC-Max excavator machine control technology

- Road construction with MC-Max asphalt paving and milling systems

- Construction surveying with the HiPer XR

- Capture reality with their laser scanners, modelling and verifcation software

- Digital transformation/integration using their diverse solutions, including Aptix, Sitelink, and feet management

- Correction services with Topnet Live, a real-time GNSS correction service

Feeling so fulflled after our visit to Topcon, our next stop was Unicontrol.

bauma was the perfect opportunity for Unicontrol to showcase their UnicontrolOnDemand system, as well as their 3D machine control technology that will be available directly on Volvo Excavators, as both companies now work as a partnership. With simplicity at the heart of what they do – their mission, to “simplify and ensure the safety of earthmoving” – Unicontrol endeavour to make operation easier, but with more reliability and efciency. Their Unicontrol3D app does just that! No extra hardware, no complicated setups, Unicontrol know how to make systems completely userfriendly. And this isn’t just projections! Their solution has already positively impacted 27 countries with more than +2500 systems running after being tested by the people who actually use it. As they put it: “Made with and for the operator.”

This app supports grading attachments, dozers, excavators and wheel loaders. The key features provide:

- Real-time 3D visual guidance

- Advanced in-feld designs

- Automatic as-built documentation

- Customisable interface

- Operate2D without GPS

- Triple-band satellite tracking (GPS, Glonass, Beidou, Galileo)

- Robust display – IP68 MIL-STD-840

- Correction date: RTCM3.X, CMR & CMR+ (internet or radio)

Other notable systems Unicontrol ofer is their UnicontrolCloud, advertised as a “single point connecting all your activities”, and UnicontrolRover, a user-friendly interface with a portable, wireless screen that enhances construction site efciency.

Needless to say, Unicontrol have you covered for all your machine control needs!

Now, I need to be honest… I shouldn’t have a favourite – it’s much like picking a favourite child! But, that being said, without a doubt, Caterpillar’s stand was my favourite. (Sorry to everyone else!)

Well – I say stand. I really mean arena. It was like a museum, one that I’d explore in London; a room flled with exhibitions, displays, information and busybodies wanting to look at everything. I was in awe walking through the arena, not knowing what to look at frst as I aimlessly snapped my camera to take some pictures. The deep vibration of the short flm that was being played, celebrating 100 years of Caterpillar, and discussing what the next 100 years look like, fowed through me, making me feel like a giddy child on a school trip. I felt tiny against all their displays; even the wheels of some of the machinery were taller than me! But this didn’t dampen my excitement or enthusiasm.

And the best thing? The Caterpillar arena was right next door to ours, and we had to walk through it every morning to get to our stand. I loved it. It felt like I was starting my days at bauma on the right note. Caterpillar weren’t kidding when they called it the Caterpillar Experience. That’s exactly what it felt like!

Showcasing Caterpillar’s vision with cutting-edge technologies like Cat® Command and VisionLink™, they had endless amounts of innovative tech to show of, demonstrating how their experience in this industry really has paid of. Despite celebrating the huge milestone of 100 years, I adored that they were more focused on the next century, making sure their energy went into moving forward. By doing so, they displayed the latest in excavators and wheel loaders, and had demonstrations to help visitors learn how Caterpillar’s equipment, digital solutions, and services boost efciency on job sites worldwide.

Just like bauma, Caterpillar’s focus was sustainability. Managing Director at Zeppelin (CAT), Holger Schulz comments on this, saying that “the sustainable operation of construction machinery and construction sites with the latest drive systems and energy storage solutions remains an important topic.” Given that the construction industry is driving itself to adhere to the circular economy, Caterpillar are making sure they will spend their next 100 years giving back to the planet.

Schulz described bauma as the “beating heart of the industry”, and I couldn’t agree more.

Like Caterpillar, Komatsu also had their own arena to display their machinery, and this space was also jaw-dropping. Komatsu showcases its latest eforts in innovation, sustainability, and digitalisation, advancing smart and clean future workplaces at construction and mining sites.

With innovation being their main focal point, Komatsu showcased their Electric equipment range, including electric hydraulic excavators and electric wheel loaders. They also exhibited 13 new models, including the new-generation hydraulic excavator PC220LCi-12 (bucket capacity 1.2 m3), and the new-generation wheel loader WA485-11 (permanent payload 8,800kg).

Outside they had the biggest piece of machinery I had ever seen. Their “ultralarge” hydraulic excavator, PC7000-11E, equipped with a 44 m3 capacity bucket, approximately 9.6 m high (to the top of the cab) and 9.0 m wide. It was vast. The man over the Tanoy said that it weighed more than Big Ben! Mind-blowingly large.

However, the best bit of all had to be their Formula One (F1) section. Whilst I appreciate this is slightly of topic for Plant Planet, I’m sure this may be my only chance to talk about F1, so I’m grabbing this opportunity with both hands! When in the shop buying some memorabilia for my dad and brother, I couldn’t help but notice the large pictures of Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon on the walls, and I silently fangirled in the queue. And not to mention, I actually got to see a Williams F1 racing car too!

Komatsu’s history with Williams Racing dates back to the 1980s and 1990s, and they have now “reignited [their] historic partnership” by signing a multi-year deal! The frst race of the season I noticed ‘Komatsu’ on the helmets of the Williams’ drivers, and yelled “Komatsu! I know them! They work with us!” to my parents.

They were impressed, but I do think Dad was more impressed with the miniature version of the racing car I had bought him from the show.

With my arms flled with Williams x Komatsu goodies, I headed back to our stand.

Despite it now being 5pm, our day was far from over! We had been invited to the MB Crusher stand at the end of the day to attend the exclusive unveiling of their newest Demolition Pulverizer! They announced the launch of the two models, the MB-P and the MB-PT. As the Pulverizer said herself (yes, she spoke!), “I’m one tool, but I come in two versions. I’m always the same pulverizer, but depending on the power of the heavy machine, I wear a diferent outft: single-cylinder or doublecylinder”.

It was a wonderful experience, as MB Crusher put on a real show. A gold blanket was draped over the secret machine before it was then dramatically revealed, a beautiful spread of food and drink was provided, and a very talented saxophonist accompanied our time on the stand.

Thank you for inviting us, MB Crusher!

DAY THREE

After waking up to another beautiful, sunny day in Germany and flling myself up with the gorgeously refreshing breakfast, I was ready for day three.

We managed to escape from the U Bar after being trapped in there like sardines with all the other bauma busybodies, and we eventually made it to our frst stop of the day: Avant Tecno and Leguan Lifts for their morning tour.

We were shown round the entire stand, proudly showcasing all their machinery, including a beer box. Yes folks, you heard me correctly, a box for actual beer. Originally made for a laugh, now in popular demand, the Avant Tecno Beer Box has become a very unique piece of machinery that starts conversations going. And as us journalists surrounded the Beer Box, the only question that managed to escape our lips was “are you going to launch a cofee box?” (Honestly though, Avant, if you’re taking suggestions, a Tea Box sounds fab!)

The main highlights on their stand, and newly launched at bauma, was their new heavy-duty electric loaders and their unique mobile power units, and at Leguan Lifts, they were showcasing, and demonstrating, the Leguan 265 spider lift. The main selling point, as explained by Export Sales Manager, Hugues Lambert, is that “if you know how to operate one Leguan, you know how to operate them all.”

This bad boy spider lift really did adhere to their slogan of “reaching new heights”. I was too much of a wimp to go up in it, but one journalist did! I craned (no pun intended!) my neck to look up as it went closer to the sky, and before long, the two passengers looked like birds. It truly was a sight to behold… one I was happy to watch whilst safely on the ground!

After our personal tour and feeling like a professional journalist, we headed back out to the North outdoor exhibition to go visit the Kobelco stand.

From sustainable, electric machines, state of the art remote operation systems, all the way to demolition solutions and compact excavators, it was clear the Kobelco stand had it all! Kobelco were delighted to return to bauma, treating it as an exciting opportunity to reconnect with their valued dealers and customers. Makoto Kato, Managing Director for Kobelco Construction Machinery Europe BV, said that bauma was their chance to “demonstrate how Kobelco is shaping the future of construction. We can’t wait to welcome visitors to our stand and share our vision for safety, sustainability, and innovation.”

As already mentioned, Kobelco’s focus was sustainability, and as part of the Green Solutions Pavilion, so the machines they were showcasing refected this. At bauma, they launched the new SK300NLC-11E excavator, the SK165SRLC-7, the SK380SRLC-7 dozer, and the SK135SRLC-7 demolition excavator prototype. They also modelled their latest crane technology, with the K-Eye Technology range.

For me, however, their main focal point was their K-DIVE Technology, and after speaking to Commercial Director for Plantforce Rentals, Chris Matthew, it was impossible to not be blown away. The incredible part of the K-DIVE Technology is its ability to seamlessly control heavy machinery even when miles away, spanning Germany, Denmark and even Japan! This enables remote operation across borders with unmatched precision, getting the best results and utilising the utmost driving force of operators all around the globe. They even gave visitors the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in this new tech in the K-Dive Pavilion.

We’ll send you an alert when you leave site without your tools.

After that wonderfully informative visit, it was lunchtime! Day three was also the day I had a proper German pretzel. Whilst this is nothing to do with construction, it’s still extremely worth noting. And before you ask, yes, it was absolutely delicious. Okay, back to machinery!

Manitou’s stand was framed perfectly with all their high-reach equipment, standing tall like synchronised swimmers. As experts in the handling, aerial work platform and earth moving sectors, Manitou attended bauma with a focus on electric machines with zero emission. At bauma, they unveiled a new hydrogen telehandler concept with their telehandler prototype, powered by green hydrogen via a fuel cell, guaranteeing a zeroemission solution. They also expanded their range of solutions for working at height with a new rotating telehandler MRT designed for high-rise lifts. This machine has a lifting height of over 30 metres and engine power of 175 hp. They also strengthened their electric battery range by releasing a new outboard fast charger (30 kW), designed for maximum efciency and extended compatibility with the MT range (telehandlers) and ME Lift electric ranges (forklifts), ensuring fast and reliable recharge.

It’s great to see Manitou’s approach to a sustainable, net-zero result, and they certainly made that clear at bauma!

XCMG’s stand was flled with ‘sold’ signs, so I could already tell before even properly stepping foot into their area that bauma had been beyond successful for them.

Their relationship with bauma dates back to the very frst bauma exhibition in 1992, marking the beginning of China’s construction machinery industry stepping onto the global stage. Since then, XCMG have attended every single bauma event, and it’s clear to see why they adore the show so much.

Advertising themselves as “your solid green partners”, XCMG take pride in their greener, sustainable approaches, stating “a better, more sustainable world is within our reach.”

They displayed:

- Loaders: XC7-SR07EV, XC7-TV12, XC8-S3580, XC908-EV, XC908HST, XC918EV, XC918HST, XC968-EV, XC975-EV

- Aerial Working Machinery: XG0608C, XG1412AC, XG2225ERT, XGA20H, XGA48K, XGR08J, XGR10J, XGR12J, XGS40ACK-Li, XT2506E,

- Excavators: XE10E, XE155WECR, XE19EV, XE215EV, XE235ECR, XE27CREV, XE45E, XE530E, XE155ECR (Double boom), XE80E (Double boom), XE55E, (Cab), XE27E (Cab), XE20E (Cab).

…and so much more!

Our time at bauma was rushing by, and before we knew it, we were heading back to our hotel to recharge our batteries for the fnal day.

DAY FOUR

I had learned to ignore my screaming feet by this point, and felt like a proper business girl who knew her way round the entire venue. (Which, I defnitely did not, as I got lost whilst flming a video… *facepalm*).

First visit was to Altrad International! Entering the scafolding arena, I couldn’t help but turn to my colleague and jokingly say “this room looks unfnished!” I received more of a groan than a laugh.

However, Altrad’s stand was nothing to groan about, as it was flled with scafolding, robotic demonstrations, flm footage of on-site, and so much more.

Once we had ooh’ed and ahh’ed at Altrad’s stand, we quickly headed onwards to Xwatch Safety Solution’s (Xwatch) stand (joined with Hexagon and Leica too). Here, we met with Louise Carney, and she showed me around their products, telling me the highlights whilst I was snapping pictures of everything I could. This year was Xwatch’s debut appearance at bauma, and they certainly made the most of it. Teasing that the next evolution in machine and operator safety is here, they launched the MK2 at the show, as well as displaying the XW4 series. MK2 is the evolution of MK1, staying true to the Xwatch mission and ethos: “keep moving forward, never stand still”. Their main approach is to make everything smoother and easier, making sure it’s operator friendly. It gives the best quality results without being time consuming and complicated. It was fascinating to see, and also a lovely opportunity to catch up with some familiar faces on the stand! (Thank you for the mini personal tour, Louise!)

Our feet then took us over to see Trimble, an American technology company that specialises software, hardware and services, especially in the felds of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). At bauma, they showcased their three main areas:

- Civil construction technology solutions: This includes planning and design software, precision machine control, surveying, mobile technologies and realtime connectivity. This creates more confdence to construct!

- Structural BIM: BIM stands for ‘Building Information Modeling’, and Trimble ofer constructible models that provide reliable information that isn’t easily available for users through the of- and on-site construction supply chains.

- Building scanning and layout: This mixes augmented reality with real life, using layout and scanning solutions through robotics to show all phases of a construction project.

It genuinely is fascinating to see how much technology aids and supports the construction industry, and it was amazing to see how Trimble is helping with that!

Our last visit was back outside to the North exhibits, and here we met up with Steelwrist. It was so lovely to meet Karl Serneberg after interviewing him for a feature article I wrote a few issues back (shameless self promo), and it was incredible to see the Open-S attachments in use! They had a mini display area where three machines were operating, showcasing the attachments. It was so cool to see how attaching, changing, swapping out and de-attaching were all movements done from within the cab, making it such a smooth and fast operation. To be able to fnally see Steelwrist in action after writing about them a few months back was a great experience, feeling like a full circle moment.

Not only were they busy exhibiting their existing range, but they also launched two new models in the third generation tiltrotators: the XTR15 and XTR23. They also announced the big news compact excavators in the shape of the SQ40 automatic coupler solution.

Steelwrist’s constant passion for striving for the best shows their immense dedication to the industry!

For one fnal time, we clambered onto the U-Bar to go back to our hotel, and we of course celebrated with a schnitzel last supper.

TO CONCLUDE…

bauma was one of the most incredible shows I have ever attended, and despite my aching feet and the heavy bags under my eyes, I would do it all again in a heartbeat. It was beyond mind-blowing, so insightful and just all around amazing.

The next bauma will be held from April 3–9, 2028, at the Munich trade fair. Save the date, and we’ll see you there.

Danke bauma!

XTR20 New

Tiltrotator

technology AT ITS BEST!

Steelwrist’s third generation tiltrotators takes efciency for excavators to the next level. Best in class tilt geometry, LockSense - a new patented safety solution for work tool locking and OptiLube - an onboard lubrication system, are just some of the technical developments of the third generation high performance Steelwrist tiltrotators.

Easy installation with the InstallMate app

Lubrication free triple sealed bearings

Modular design for upgrade to SQ/Open-S

For 15-20 ton excavators

AFC ENERGY/HYAMTEC

PROVIDING THE

SOLUTIONS TO DECARBONISE THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

AFC Energy is pioneering the replacement of fossil fuel based power generation with their ruggedized zero emission hydrogen fuel cell systems.

These zero carbon generators will help the construction industry—one of the most challenging industries to reduce emissions—to decarbonise, and can assist frms to win tenders when their carbon footprint is considered during the bidding process. Also using their ammonia to hydrogen cracking plant to provide lower cost, onsite hydrogen fuel production.

PIONEERING THE REPLACEMENT OF FOSSIL FUEL GENERATION

AFC Energy is based at Dunsfold Aerodrome, historically home to pioneering engineering frsts such as the Harrier jump-jet from British Aerospace, and now the ideal location for the company’s innovative and ambitious clean technology developments. For over the past decade, this public limited company has been designing, building, testing and refning its fuel cell technology. As a result, AFC Energy now has a range of efcient fuel cell generators ready to drive decarbonisation of the construction industry.

AFC Energy’s strategy is built around replacing diesel generation with hydrogen technology. Its H-Power Generator is already deployed at construction sites around the world and helps businesses to decarbonise their operations.

Alongside its fuel-cell product lines, AFC Energy has also been developing the ability to make hydrogen on demand using their modular ammonia cracker. Low-cost hydrogen made on-site, without the need for a dedicated hydrogen infrastructure, can substantially reduce the costs of adopting clean technologies – bringing these solutions much closer to diesel parity in cost and usability.

WHY DOES THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY NEED TO DECARBONISE?

The construction sector is a huge contributor to carbon emissions (both in the production of building materials as well as the deployment of site power) and faces many challenges and reasons to accelerate the decarbonisation of its operations:

• The sector is a major greenhouse gas emitter as well as air polluter – most notably through diesel generators used on remote sites.

• Stricter building codes and standards continue to come into place requiring buildings to be near-zero carbon in their construction.

• Public bodies and Government are increasingly integrating low-carbon requirements into their procurement processes.

• Decarbonising operations reduces exposure to volatile fuel prices.

UK CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY FACES PRESSURE

• For the UK, it should be called out that the Construction Leadership Council, representing the construction industry, has developed a Zero Diesel Site route map. The Council recognises the value of hydrogen, having included hydrogenbased power as a signifcant element of this route map, and is now working to achieve zero diesel on construction sites by 2035.

• Lower Thames Crossing has mandated that by 2027 hydrogen needs to be used on all construction equipment, with exception of boring equipment, while HS2 wants to end its use of diesel by 2029.

AFC Energy ofers a solution which answers these challenges for the construction industry, while providing deployable and afordable means of generating power where the grid cannot supply it.

AFC Energy has established a Joint Venture with Speedy Hire, the UK’s leading tool and equipment hire services company, which is a dedicated hydrogen-powered generator plant hire business and will lead the UK’s journey to replace the use of polluting diesel generators

In 2024, AFC Energy sold a large quantity, 30kW 50 KVA S Series Generators into this JV, through which Speedy Hire is responsible for deployment. Paired with Speedy’s battery energy storage system, they can displace diesel generators up to 60KVA. The Speedy Hydrogen Solution fuel cell generators form AFC are available for

These are new units and new technologies which are replacing incumbent technology that has been around for many years, and so AFC Energy is working with Speedy Hire to overcome any roadblocks to deployment such as providing further guidance on initial set up of

This JV was a direct response by Speedy Hire from its customers’ demands for power solutions driven by tendering requirements and emission regulations. It is clear from this and many partners that AFC Energy works with in the construction industry that the urgency to address of-grid power in a sustainable manner is becoming increasingly critical for contractors and developers alike.

Dan Evans, Chief Executive at Speedy Hire, during the launch of “Our JV with AFC Energy further strengthens our market leadership in combining product innovation and sustainability solutions that are increasingly critical and in demand from our customers. We continue to make progress in the delivery of our ambitious plan to be a net zero business by 2040 and, together with other recently announced developments like the acquisition of Green Power Hire, provide strong and unique evidence of our Velocity strategy in action.”

THE AFC ENERGY SOLUTION

The hydrogen fuel cell provides many of the answers that major construction industry players are looking for. Hydrogen fuel cells have the ability to generate electricity with zero emissions and can be deployed in much the same way as a diesel generator set.

Currently, most construction sites use diesel generators where the power requirements at any of-grid location will fuctuate according to load, and so the generator set must be sized to be able to cope with the maximum load; however, often this is guess work, based on the assumption that “a little extra won’t hurt”. What this means is that many diesel generator sets when deployed in a temporary power application rarely operate at much over 30 – 35% of their plate rated power, all of which adds to their wasteful emission footprint.

Enter AFC Energy’s H-Power Generators - which can be used on any power application, from construction sites and datacentres. The modular fuel cell system can be scaled from 20 kW to over 1MW to ft the typical power requirements of construction machinery. The Generator is fuelled by hydrogen and produces only water vapour as an emission.

“Hydrogen-power can replace polluting diesel gensets with a clean sustainable generating system that can be used on construction sites and other of-grid applications with no air, atmosphere or noise pollution,” comments Dr Mike Rendall, Chief Technology Ofcer, AFC Energy PLC.

Some do question these new entries into the market place, either on the basis of cost, units deployed around the world so far or their technological complexity. However, the approach ofered by AFC Energy is to make a fuel-cell system look, feel and behave like a familiar gen-set. The total lifetime ownership costs work out lower (due in part to the low servicing requirement and the low cost of hydrogen made from low-cost ammonia).

Ultimately, the hydrogen fuel cell is the best placed technology that can meet all of the various competing demands, and to replace the diesel generator set whilst fulflling the same usage criteria; all the while producing zero emissions.

IN

A NUTSHELL: Dirty of-grid diesel generators can be replaced with clean fuel cell solutions.

• Diesel generators often run at very low loads (typically where they are the most inefcient) and require signifcant regular maintenance.

• Diesel generators pump out huge amounts of carbon emissions and dangerous pollutants into the atmosphere.

• Replacement can lead to reduced maintenance intervals.

• Fuel cells ofer high efciency across the load profle which can bring the economic cost of running a fuel cell solution close to parity with diesel.

IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER:

Fuel cell generators in construction applications have the same look and feel of a typical generator, but with low noise, smells and emissions.

EFFORTLESS CONTROL

PRODUCTIVITY

Dig Assist reduces time on site by providing real-time guidance and centimetre-level precision, ensuring that every pass counts.

INTEGRATED 2D & 3D CAPABILITIES

From simple single grade slopes to intricate designs. Dig Assist o ers scalable options that adapt to any project needs. Dig Assist transforms complex excavation tasks into straight forward processes, requiring minimal training for operators.

START SMARTER

Whether you are levelling sites, digging trenches, grading slopes or pads, digging operations have never been faster, easier and safer.

Powered by the next generation of Volvo Co-Pilot in-cab tablet, Dig Assist Start enhances precision and productivity by leveraging real-time data and advanced integrated technology, ensuring accurate digging and faster completion times.

A CRACKING SOLUTION?

Complementing its fuel cell technology, AFC Energy launched its subsidiary Hyamtec in September 2024, focusing on ammonia-cracking technology, a method that separates ammonia into hydrogen and nitrogen. AFC Energy’s containerised modular cracker unit is easy to transport and can scale to meet demand, producing fuel-cell grade hydrogen with low energy requirements which makes it highly efcient and costefective for projects that require the beneft of a local hydrogen fuel source.

It is afordable too – currently the levelised cost of hydrogen from ammonia is typically 10% of the cost of the gas supplied by industrial gas providers, meaning that AFC Energy are able to commercially produce hydrogen at costs that are competitive with typical carbon-based fuels, without the need for government subsidies.

WHY AMMONIA?

Ammonia is very hydrogen dense and is perfect for using as a carrier for hydrogen. One lorry trailer load of liquid ammonia can equate to 15 trailers of hydrogen gas. This reduces carbon emissions even further by reducing the amount of hydrogen deliveries needed by cracking hydrogen from ammonia onsite. This also provides a large fnancial incentive by cutting transport by a signifcant amount.

Ammonia is tried and tested. Being one of the most traded chemicals in the world for over a century due to its need to make agricultural fertilizers, ammonia is very easily transported on roads, rail and ships in contrast with logistics problems encountered with the new hydrogen market.

Ammonia is cost efective. The cost of green hydrogen is linked to the cost of electrical power to produce it. Green hydrogen is only cost efective if the cost of the power feeding the electrolysers is very low, typically in locations with signifcant hydroelectricity, wind or solar. But moving that hydrogen across the world is impractical and expensive, hence it is converted into liquid ammonia and utilizing the already established supply chains. This ammonia is then cracked on site back into pure hydrogen using the Hyamtec HY-5, signifcantly reducing the cost per kilogram.

Hyamtec HY5 Ammonia Cracker is a modular and scalable solution for on-site hydrogen production. Housed in a standard 20-foot container, it can be deployed and operational within a single day, delivering hydrogen virtually anywhere it’s needed. Each unit produces up to 500 kg of hydrogen per day, and for higher demand, additional units can be added seamlessly—scaling up to 3 tonnes of hydrogen per day.

One of Hyamtec’s core business models is ofering hydrogen as a service. Customers can order a HY-5 unit, and Hyamtec will handle the delivery, setup, maintenance, and ammonia supply. The customer simply pays for the hydrogen produced—at a signifcantly lower cost than conventional delivered hydrogen. Because the cost of shipping ammonia is included in the hydrogen price, customers also avoid the high expense of traditional hydrogen delivery, resulting in substantial savings.

DECARBONISING MACE AND DRAGADOS OPERATIONS AT HS2

The construction team building HS2’s new Euston station, Mace Dragados Joint Venture, trialled AFC Energy’s H-Power Tower hydrogen fuel cell, to generate clean power to charge a fully electric JCB telehandler.

For of-grid construction sites, charging electric machinery with zeroemission solutions is a practical way of decarbonising on-site operations. The H-Power system was used at the Euston station construction site to charge a JCB on-site telehandler electric vehicle, delivering an emission-free solution that drastically cuts down on noise, carbon, and air pollution.

During the trial the H-Power generator proved itself as a reliable,

AFC Energy and Hyamtec: Powering the Decarbonisation of Construction

AFC Energy, alongside its subsidiary Hyamtec, is leading the charge to decarbonise the construction industry by replacing diesel generators with zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells and ammonia cracking technology. Their H-Power Generators ofer scalable, clean energy solutions for of-grid construction sites, producing only water vapour as an emission. Complementing this, the Hyamtec HY5 Ammonia Cracker provides a costefective, modular solution for on-site hydrogen production— delivering up to 3 tonnes of hydrogen per day and eliminating the need for expensive hydrogen transport.

With rising regulatory pressures and carbon-conscious procurement policies, companies like HS2, Speedy Hire,

and ACCIONA are adopting AFC Energy’s solutions to meet decarbonisation targets and gain a competitive advantage. The hydrogen-as-a-service model makes deployment simple and afordable, with Hyamtec handling setup, maintenance, and ammonia supply.

Ammonia serves as a practical hydrogen carrier—energydense, cost-efective, and easy to transport. Cracking it into hydrogen on-site drastically reduces emissions and logistics costs. These innovations position AFC Energy and Hyamtec at the forefront of sustainable construction power.

By delivering reliable, zero-emission power, AFC Energy is transforming how the construction industry powers its operations—helping meet climate goals without compromising performance.

CASE STUDY: ACCIONA

WORKING WITH THE LARGEST GLOBAL ENERGY COMPANY OPERATING EXCLUSIVELY IN RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGY

HOW HYDROGEN POWER IS REPLACING DIESEL GENERATORS IN CONSTRUCTION

As one of the world’s leading construction contractors with a large portfolio of renewable energy projects worldwide, ACCIONA is precisely the sort of company AFC Energy can help to decarbonise and become more efciency in its power generation. ACCIONA and AFC Energy are now working together to showcase what the future of construction will look like.

In 2020, ACCIONA and AFC Energy signed their frst agreement to take alkaline fuel cell technology to ACCIONA’s construction site to assess its ability to reduce carbon emissions through the adoption of carbon free fuels such as ammonia.

This was the frst uses of such zero-emission hydrogen technology deployed on a European construction site.

Since then, AFC Energy has advanced its portfolio of fuel cell technologies and product platforms including its working ammonia cracker system that supplies hydrogen (derived from ammonia) into an AFC Energy fuel cell system.

Working with ACCIONA, saw AFC Energy’s frst S series H-Power Tower successfully deployed at a construction site in Madrid, Spain.

Moving away from fossil fuels, this project successfully shows how hydrogen fuel cells can provide clean, temporary power for of-grid construction. The 530 hours of operation avoided 3 tonnes of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere, saved over 1,000 litres of diesel and prevented air pollutants emissions such as the oxides of nitrogen and sulphur.

The H-Power Tower operated efectively in the height of the Spanish summer and matched its fexible generation of power with the varying load requirements you’d expect from a construction site. From these partners AFC Energy is gaining valuable data and customer feedback that it can factor into the next generation of H-Power Towers.

Miguel Paris Torres, Head of Area at ACCIONA’s Construction Business R&D Centre, said: “ACCIONA has set high ambitions to decarbonise its construction business over an aggressive timescale and the displacement of diesel engines from sites is a key element of that strategy. I have witnessed frst-hand the signifcant steps taken by AFC Energy in delivering its latest H-Power Generator from our initial feld trials of the H-Power Tower. We continue to see hydrogen as a signifcant pillar of our decarbonisation strategy and believe our partnership with AFC Energy will see growing opportunities to displace diesel on sites with hydrogen power generation.”

On - site low - cost pure hydrogen generation from ammonia

HY5 containerised ammonia cracking hydrogen generator

Fuel Source Anhydrous Ammonia [<0.5% Water content %v/v]

Fuel Consumption < 8.5 kg NH 3 per kg H 2 produced @ rated flow

Hydrogen Production Rate Up to 500 kg / day

Hydrogen Purity

Hydrogen purity >99.9% ISO14687 Grade D † <0.1ppm NH 3 in feed stream

Turn-down ratio From 35% to 100%

Electrical Power consumption < 9.5 kWh / kg

Size / Dimensions Containerised [2x20Ft]

Outlet Pressure Up to 20 barg ‡

Conformity CE (PED, MachDir, EMC, ATEX, PSSR)

†Fuel Cell Automotive PEM Grade ‡ Up to 40barg option available on request

Introducing the HY5, a modular hydrogen generation solution based on Hyamtec’s proprietary ammonia cracking technology

• Up to 500 kg / day hydrogen output

• Low power consumption

• Containerised & readily deployable

• Scalable up to 3 tonnes / day output with additional modules

Record-Breaking Year for CPA Stars of the Future Nominations

The Construction Plant-hire Association has reported a recordbreaking year for the number of nominations received for the CPA Stars of the Future Awards 2025.

Stars of the Future is the CPA’s long-standing awards programme for apprentices and trainees in the construction plant sector. Since it was established in 2013, it has become frmly rooted as the industry’s premier event for recognising and rewarding apprentices who are earmarked as future leaders of the industry.

As this issue of Plant Planet went to press, the judges had started going through over 100 impressive nominations for the Stars of the Future 2025 awards programme. Awards will be made for Plant Mechanic of the Year (Level 2), Plant Technician of the Year (Level 3), Plant Operative of the Year, Young Plant Operative of the Year, Plant Installer of the Year, Hire Controller of the Year, Apprentice Mentor of the Year, College of the Year and the brand new Technical Support Person of the Year category. All nominees are also eligible for

special awards including the Judges’ Special Award and the Best Personal Statement Award.

The 2025 winners will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre in Fillongley, near Coventry, on Thursday 10th July 2025. The event will be hosted by well-known construction industry journalist and vlogger Peter Haddock.

Winners will receive national recognition and there will be an impressive array of prizes on ofer including Snap-on tool boxes and kits, iPads, backhoe loader training courses and CPCS cards courtesy of sponsor ACOP Group, VIP trips to JCB’s World Headquarters in Stafordshire and overnight stays at the JCB Golf and Country Club, an overseas trip to visit a Liebherr crane manufacturing plant in Germany courtesy of sponsor Liebherr and a trip to one of Wolfkran’s manufacturing facilities in Luckau, Germany, courtesy of sponsor Wolfkran.

The CPA has had tremendous support for 2025 awards programme from sponsors and supporters, and would like to extend the Association’s sincere thanks. The awards are being held in association with event sponsors Flannery Plant Hire, GAP Group and Sunbelt Rentals, along with support from award sponsors ACOP Group, CITB, CPCS/NOCN, Flannery Plant Hire, HTS Spares, Liebherr, L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage, Southern Hoist Services and Wolfkran. The media partner is Plant Planet, and the event will also be supported by JCB, NPORS and Ainscough Crane Hire.

Stars of the Future 2025 Judging

With the nomination process for the 2025 Stars of the Future awards programme now ofcially closed, the judging process to decide the winners and highly commended nominees for all categories is well underway.

The frst stage is the internal judging process undertaken by the CPA selection panel which consists of CPA staf Rob Squires, Katie Kelleher, Lisa Collins and Peter Brown. Rob, Katie, Lisa and Peter thoroughly go through the nominations to produce a shortlist for each of the categories.

The Plant Mechanic and Plant Technician of the Year categories consistently attract the most entries and the selection panel chooses a regional winner and any highly commended nominees for the regions of North, Midlands, South, Wales and Scotland.

There are three parts to the nomination form to be considered - the employer’s statement, the training provider’s statement and the apprentice’s statement. The latter is considered the most important, and nominees are actively encouraged to submit a video statement. This makes a real diference to the judges, as they are able to see and hear the nominees for themselves.

All video entries are also eligible for the Personal Statement of the Year Award, which is given to the nominee who the judges feel provides the most inspiring, enthusiastic, genuine and well conveyed personal statement about their journey on their apprenticeship, what it means to them and what they hope to achieve.

Once the fnalists in all categories have been identifed by the selection panel, they are passed onto the external judging panel, who then determine the national winner for each of the categories. The judges also present their own award to a nominee who they feel deserves special recognition of some form or another, such as overcoming some form of adversity or who has shown particular initiative, achievement, progression, enthusiasm or lifealtering decision to enter the sector.

The external Stars of the Future judges are Kirsty Archbold-Laming from Southern Hoist Services, Siôn Morgan Jones of ACOP Group, Arran Willis from Liebherr-GB, Tim Brownbridge from BAM Nuttall, Leigh Sparrow from Vertikal Press/Cranes and Access, Graham Black from Earthmovers magazine, Georgina Williams from JCB, Sean Scarah from Balfour Beatty and Rob Allen, who is an independent judge but has experienced a lifetime in the plant sector.

A new judge for the 2025 awards programme is Dean Watkin of G F Tomlinson; Dean is the current Chair of the of the Construction Equipment Maintenance Engineering Group, overseeing the development and introduction of both the Level 2 Plant Mechanic and Level 3 Plant Technician apprenticeships.

The CPA team are extremely grateful for the time, energy and efort the judges make in choosing the winners and making the Stars of the Future programme the resounding success it is.

Arran Willis

Graham Black

Leigh Sparrow

Rob Allen

Siôn Morgan Jones

Dean Watkin

Katie Kelleher

Lisa Collins

Rob Squires

Tim Brownbridge

Georgina Williams

Kirsty Archbold-Laming

Peter Brown

Sean Scarah

• 25 years’ experience with Volvo Dump-Trucks

• Selected-used or refurbished parts

• All models catered for

• Big savings • Engine and transmission rebuilds • Maintenance and repairs • Export enquiries welcome • Your choice of Swedish quality SLP or genuine OEM

Group Sales Director, Phil and lowly writer, me (Ren), take a sunny trip to Iver, Buckinghamshire to check out one of the Operator Skills Hubs around the UK run by Flannery in a Joint Venture with Balfour Beatty.

I sat down with Luke Wilkinson to discuss his journey, from working as a Plant Operator to being Lead Trainer for the Operator Skills Hub, here in Iver.

RR So, where did it all start for you?

LW I’ve been brought up in the trades since I was a fve years old. All I’ve known is machinery, to be honest. My granddads have done it and my uncles have done it. I then went out at 18 and started doing it professionally. I started working for Flannery in 2018 and then in 2023, I was approached, asked to become a trainer. Took the job opportunity with both hands, and been nurtured to become a trainer and assessor.

RR Is it just the experience under your belt that interested Flannery?

LW I’ve always kept it consistent with work. I’m a good operator, I know what I’m doing on site and I’ve always been recommended by the other contractors that we wanted a driver. So they’ve said, “right, he’s quite a good candidate”.

RR And do you feel as a trainer - having gone through it all yourself - you’ve been able to bring some unique perspective or some empathy to it?

LW 100%. When you’ve got a bit of a “younger face” who’s been out there and done it, you’re more appealing to get across to the next generation, to let them know this is quite a good career to go into.

RR What’s been the highlights of being a trainer so far?

LW Being given my own centre to run (said with a cheeky grin).

RR Has that come with much upskilling on your part?

LW A lot of upskilling. Being able to lead a team, keep the candidates in line. I’m learning new kit, new equipment, constant qualifcations, always.

RR So you’re constantly levelling up.

LW Constantly developing. It’s great being a plant operator and you learn the trade, you do it physically. But when it comes to being a trainer, it’s a total diferent aspect. So you have to look at it from a diferent view. I’m using my experience and the way that I’ve been taught by Aaron and all the other trainers. I use that to look at how things come across to other people.

RR I was talking with one of the trainees earlier, one week into the two week course, and he explained the value of having the extended time spent here with you and how it removes some of the stress.

LW So we take all the pressure out of it. We like to be friendly and we like to try and make it a community. I’ve got candidates from when I frst started doing the training, still calling me, “How do I do this? How do I do that?” and giving advice on it. Then that’s word of mouth and we’ve had friends of candidates coming here. They want to be taught by us because they know that the atmosphere is good, we keep a good morale. It can get quite daunting if you don’t know anything about construction and you come into a new world, it’s quite pressurised. So we try to like to relieve the pressure by being friendly, having a laugh, having a joke and communicating. And in that way, they open up to listen to us and we get a better achievement rate by that.

RR And do you think it also attracts a wider variety of people because of this? It can be intimidating if you don’t ft the old school mold, otherwise?

LW Yeah, so that’s what we’re trying to break. The old school mold is done, you know. It’s about how you talk to people, how you come across. They’ve got to enjoy it. If they’re not enjoying it, they’re not going to learn. We’ve had quite a few women coming through the Operator Skills Hub. They love it because we’re

open about it. We don’t look at people and think “your face won’t ft”, or “you shouldn’t be here”. We take everyone. If you’re willing to learn, we will teach you all day long.

RR With your own kind of transition into as a trainer, how many of the regular things you’re teaching are newer that you had to then learn as well?

LW So yeah, like things like Red Zones, the “Thumbs Up”, PPI, how to approach machines. All of that stuf wasn’t there when I started. People just walked under the bucket, you know. Now, as a standard, we’re teaching them Red Zone. The frst day they turn up here, they learn how to approach the machine safely. We then take them outside on the kit, we let them sit inside the machine; even if they’re not on the categories, they sit in the machine to see what the visual’s like. You can’t understand it without sitting in it. If someone doesn’t approach the machine safely, we stop everything and say, “come back, what have you done?” and we let them explain to us, because if they can explain to us what they’ve done wrong, they’ll remember next time.

RR Care and awareness of your environment.

LW Yeah, and that cab’s your ofce. You know, we even promote that here. So the trainees, they maintain all their machines. You dig the tracks out, you learn how to grease, you learn how to check your own lubricants, because it’s part of the test, you know, and clean your windows, clean your cabs out, look after the machine like it’s your own. The last thing that a plant hires company wants, is an operator coming in, wrecking the machine. You’re in that “ofce” for 10 hours a day, be comfortable.

RR Had there been any challenges transitioning from an operator to teacher?

LW Yeah, I’m a council estate lad, born and bred South London. School wasn’t my thing, that’s why I became a plant operator, because I was never good at school. Reading and writing’s not my forte. And then I was asked to come do training. I had to do an NVQ in Education and Training Level Three. I then had to do my NVQ Assessors Award. And for someone who’s dyslexic and ADHD, it’s very intense, especially when you’re working as well. So if I didn’t have the support and guidance from the other trainers and my hierarchy, I wouldn’t be sitting here.

RR Have you noticed trainees attitudes change from start to fnish, particularly when, as you’ve said, you’re attracting quite a diverse group of people?

LW Yeah, we’ve had a few cases. One lad I still speak to, he came in a bit of a misled child getting himself up to no good and he’d come here to learn Dumper/Roller. He’s then achieved that, comeback to do the Excavator and he’s changed his whole life around. He’s got himself into work and he enjoys it. It’s nice to see that. We get that all the time.

RR So I guess whether it’s a trainee or whether it’s when they approached you, it’s about opportunities?

LW There’s always opportunities, yeah.

The following week, we had a chat with Aaron Davis, Safety and Skills Director for Flannery Plant Hire and Jenna Don, Head of Operations at the Skills Hub for Flannery Plant Hire.

RR Tell us how all started and what the role of Balfour Beatty is in terms of their stake in the bootcamps.

AD So the Operator Skills Hub is a joint venture between Balfour Beatty and Flannery Plant Hire. That JV now has been running for four years and headquartered at the Operator Skills Hub up in Birmingham. We’ve also got a satellite centre on Kingsbury, on HS2. We’ve also got a satellite centre down at Brackley, on HS2. We’ve got a pop up recently on HS2 in Euston, then the site you went to in Iver. And then, the latest one we’ve just opened up recently, is Huddersfeld, at Kirklees College. So Balfour Beatty have a technical training team that delivers all their vocational technical training in Balfour. The Operator Skills Hub is one delivery mechanism of that function. And for Flannery, all of our training that we do is put through the Skills Hub.

If you go back to 2020 in the height of the pandemic, the government released skills boot camps, which is short duration funded training with the idea being to allow people to career change. So, three years ago in October 2022, we successfully challenged and got a pilot with the DFE (Department for Education) to deliver Skills Bootcamps in Plant Operations, a two week course either for new entrants to come and learn things like Roller and Dumper, or an experienced operator who might have 10 years under their belt operating an excavator to then upskill themselves to use a dozer, or dozer operator to upskill themselves to use a grader. And that’s what we got in place.

RR And why did you take that on?

AD It’s well documented by various data sets, CITB Labour Force survey etc; over the last fve years, there has been, and there will continue to be a shortage of plant operators. So, if there’s a shortage, one, we can bring new entrants into the industry, not just for ourselves, or Balfour Beatty, but the wider industry. Plus, we can upskill those already in the industry to use other items of plant that we need to on projects, to fll the need from there. That pilot has then carried on, so we’ve got a direct national contract with Department for Education. We’ve been running that all the way up to now. And then in addition to that, just recently we’ve had a full OFSTED inspection as well, where we received Good, with Outstanding features. So we’ve been on a full journey, if you like.

RR I’ve seen some of your stats: 45% learners from ethnic minorities; 10% learners that identify as female - an increase on the industry average of 1% in trades; 27% learners that were not in education, employment or training prior; 14% learners with a learning disability/ difculty or health problem. And you’ve got some very impressive achievement rates on top of that!

AD We’re very proud of our achievement and outcome rates. It means someone comes to us for two weeks, leaves: and then they go and get an upskill in pay, a new opportunity, or a new job role? We’re tracking just over 80% on outcomes, whereas the national average for all Skills Bootcamps as DFE fgures is under 37%. We’ve absolutely scaled it up, resourced it properly, to make sure we delivered this efectively to the best of our ability, beating every metric put in front of us.

RR And it’s not just training people to operate plant, is it?

AD No, take the story of Luke, who you spoke with. If I include a few people who’ve left - because you always get a few drop-ofs - we’ve taken 23 plant operators from being plant operators in the last two and a half years, to upskilling them to be plant trainers. We took those people out of a machine on good money and we’ve kept them on those wages, whilst we’ve trained them, and then they’ve had that full journey of going through and ended up being CPCS plant trainers. So, when you met Luke, literally two years ago, he was sat operating a machine full time.

RR Do you know how many people you’ve trained?

AD Since October 22, we have trained 1417 people. Some come in and do roller/dumper, some will do, you know, tractor. A lot of people come in do excavator or dozer or grader. We’ve had a real efect. Everything from Molly Gill, who’s been over socials recently, who came on as a Track Dumper and ADT Operator, to people leaving the forces, and now becoming plant operators, to probably one of my favourite, which was Martin. He was being released from prison, worked with a charity called Beating Time and we got him trained up as a plant operator. This shows why the power of this initiative works, because not everyone gets placed with Flannery, not everyone gets placed with Balfour Beatty. Because we can only take so many people on. He actually ended up going on the M42 for Skanska. So even though the JV is very much Balfour/ Flannery, when you come in and out, you don’t see Balfour, you don’t see Flannery, it’s all ‘Operator Skills Hub’. It’s there for the beneft of the industry.

RR So, what’s next?

AD What we’re now looking at is, where else can we partner? What other needs require fulflling, and the big ones coming out at the minute are groundworks, formworking and steel fxing. So, we’re looking at how we could potentially replicate what we’ve done in those trades. But it might not be two weeks. It might be a four week boot camp, or it might be a three week bootcamp. We’re just looking now to see where we can replicate it.

RR When we were up in Bucks, there was a great atmosphere. Spirits were high and no one seemed stressed. Your courses don’t seem compacted and high pressured but rather, take the time and are feature rich because of it.

AD So, if we do ride-on-roller, we’ll do it over fve days. But here’s the key. Not only do we do the Bomag 120, you’re typical twin drum roller, we will then, on day four or fve, upskill them on to a 13, 16 or 19 ton roller, so a cab roller. So if you go onto site and you are not sat on a twin-drum Bomag 120, you might be sat on a CAT, a Bomag or a Hamm roller. You’ve actually had experience of those diferent weight sizes and categories. Same with the forward tipping dumper, we teach people to use a traditional forward tipping dumper, but all of them leave fully familiarised on the rotating seat dumpers, like the Wacker Neuson, Dual View.

Same as on the tractor course. If you actually look on the tractor courses, a lot of people running three to fve days, yes, all you’ve got to do is drive the tractor around, carry out some manoeuvring exercises, okay, and connect to the PTO implement. Like I say to everyone, we never hire a tractor out where it’s just going to be a tractor driving around. What do you hire tractors out with? Bowsers, vac tanks, toppers, fails. The idea of us running the extended package is actually to train people how to use bowsers, how to use vac tanks, how to use toppers. Because by them getting that additional training on those range of attachments, they stand more chance on their frst day of hire of actually being able to sustain that hire, otherwise, you’re just setting people up to fail.

RR Another thing that we noticed when we were there was there was a section that was tarmac with a car charging unit. I got the impression this was a newer element of training. Is this a reaction to the demand and the industry?

AD Yeah, so Balfour Beatty have invested in a company called Urban Fox. So there’s going to be a real large scale rollout around the UK of EV charging units, both domestically and commercially. So again, what we’ve already trialled with Bucks County Council, is an EV Charging Skills Bootcamp for qualifed electricians to learn how to install EV charging units, and that’s something now we’re working on with Balfour Beatty and Urban Fox. We’re also then looking into other compimentary areas that we are asked for such as shoring courses, so you can do that whole rounded model of bringing people to the skills hub and diversifying as the industry changes.

RR I also know you guys are big on the Stars of the Future Awards.

AD Yes. I think we‘ve put in 13 applications for the Stars Awards this year. We’re a really diverse employer, so we’re really proud. If you look around the business, you know, we’ve got female plant operators, a female HGV driver. We’ve got one of our yard staf in Newport, Eve Bright, who’s literally been working in the yard for the last 12 months supporting depot operations. Well, she’s actually now just started her Plant Operator apprenticeship in Wales. So, yeah, we’ve got a real good spread of diverse talent around the country, which probably represents the communities and projects we work in. We’re always amazed at how highly oversubscribed we are for any one of our positions. Sometimes you hear the rhetoric that young people don’t want to get out of bed; they don’t want to do manual jobs. But actually, when we advertise for plant operator apprentices, or ftter apprentices, the amount of 16/17 year olds who want to actually come and work with heavy plant, become plant mechanics, plant ftters... we’re really pleased with them. I think people realise that you can come to Flannery and there’s progression and a career path for you.

RR A very specifc question now. The issue this is going to be published in is about automation and AI. Any thoughts?

AD I think what you’ll fnd is there’ll be some applications where autonomous or AI controlled plant will work, and there’ll be some applications that don’t. That’s probably going to be exactly the same on fuelling. There’ll be some options where electrifcation may win, some may be blended, some may be hydrogen, some may be fuels of the future. Again, it’s just making sure you stay close to the manufacturers, have those conversations. We are really fortunate with the Skills Hubs, we can demonstrate and trial some of this equipment. We have the beneft of the land, we can bring the gear in, we can stick trainers in there, we can stick operators in and say, right, what works, what doesn’t work? We can work with the manufacturers and third party OEMs to achieve that. And I think you’ll fnd there’ll be more collaboration with us going, “Well, this works, this doesn’t work, where is that application going to suit?” And that’s how it’ll roll out.

RR And I guess that also plays into this idea that it’s the Skills Hub frst and foremost. Yes, it’s Flannery, yes, it’s Balfour Beatty but you’re not trying to alienate the rest of the market from your trainers and trainees.

AD No. For me, it’s, about everyone getting round a table, about collaboration and partnerships, because what is everyone struggling with? It’s bringing people into the industry, retaining those already in it, and again, what we’ve got to stop doing is talking about skills gaps. For me, it’s talking about skills opportunities.

JD Yeah, and we’re trying to open it up so that we’re not just an Operator Skill Hub, but we can fulfl any other training needs that you have.

RR And you have good relationships with your technology partners as well.

AD Yes. Ultimately, it’s putting information at the fngertips of operators. You can go and ft every item of technology you want to a machine, but ultimately, if the person sat in the cab does not know how to use it and doesn’t know the limitations and opportunity with it, you set people up to fail.

RR That’s a great philosophy.

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Powering the Future: MSF Energy’s Hybrid Generators Leading the Way in Sustainable Temporary Power

In an era where sustainability and efficiency are at the forefront of everything we do, UK industries face the challenge of reducing their environmental footprint without compromising on power reliability.

MSF Energy rises to this challenge with its innovative range of Hybrid Generators, seamlessly blending renewable energy with traditional power sources to deliver consistent, eco-friendly energy solutions. Utilising diesel, battery storage units and a solar array, their generators provide a reliable and cleaner way to power the future.

The Evolution of Power in Construction

Traditional diesel generators have long been the backbone of on-site power. However, their environmental impact and operational costs have prompted a shift towards greener alternatives. MSF Energy’s hybrid generators represent this evolution, integrating solar power, lithium-ion phosphate batteries, and efcient diesel engines to provide a versatile and sustainable power solution.

An International Collaboration: The Genesis of MSF Energy

The inception of MSF Energy was created through the strategic partnership with Volta Energy, a Dutch company renowned for its expertise in renewable energy solutions. Recognising the UK’s growing demand for sustainable power, MSF collaborated with Volta Energy to bring advanced hybrid generator technology to the UK market, creating MSF Energy. This alliance combined Volta’s innovative designs with MSF’s deep understanding of the UK’s energy needs, leading to the development of a range of hybrid generators tailored for various British markets and sectors.

• 6kVa Unit: Compact and mobile, ideal for smaller sites, small tools, CCTV cameras and lighting or roadside applications. It features a 7.2 kWh LiFePo4 battery, 990-watt solar panels, and a 400V / 6 kVA Stage V generator which has a singlephase inverter. The 6kVa model also houses a 60L internal fuel tank and when empty weighs 900kg.

• 15kVa Unit: A towable mid-range solution suitable for medium-sized projects such as welfare set ups, small electric plant and power tools requiring reliable power. It features a 28.8 kWh LiFePo4 battery, 2,640-watt solar panels, and a 400V / 20kVa Stave V generator which has a 3-phase inverter. The 15kVa model also houses a 400L internal fuel tank and when empty weighs 2,000kg.

• 45kVa Unit: Designed for larger-scale operations, such as multiple cabin welfare set-ups and smaller EV chargers. This towable generator features a 57.6 kWh LiFePo4 battery, 5,280-watt solar panels, and a 400V / 50 kVA Stage V generator which has a 3-phase inverter. The 45kVa model also houses a 400L internal fuel tank and when empty weighs 3,500kg.

Each unit is engineered for optimal performance, with features like automatic generator start at 20% battery capacity to prevent power interruptions and rapid battery recharge capabilities.

By prioritizing solar and battery power, these units can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 100% compared to traditional diesel generators. The diesel engine is only used when there is not enough solar power to charge the battery or meet the power requirements.

• Fuel Efciency: Hybrid operation leads to substantial fuel savings, with some users reporting up to 100% reduction in fuel consumption. MSF Energy’s hybrid generators are also compatible with HVO.

• Noise Reduction: Quieter operation minimizes noise pollution, enhancing site conditions and compliance with noise regulations. This is made possible by the size of the LiFePo4 batteries.

• Remote Monitoring: Integrated systems allow for real-time monitoring and management, providing users with control and insights into their power usage. Through the monitoring system, reports can also be generated to provide data on fuel usage, engine run hours, carbon savings and fuel savings.

Real-World Applications

MSF Energy’s hybrid generators have been successfully deployed across various sectors:

• Construction Sites: Providing reliable power for tools, welfare units, lighting, CCTV and to charge electric plant and equipment while reducing environmental impact.

• Film & TV: MSF Energy’s hybrid units have been used to power external welfare facilities such as toilets, alongside heaters and lighting on flm sets and in flm studios.

• Transport: Across the UK transport network, power requirements have been met for feeder pillars, weather stations and mobile cameras which have all been deployed at either the roadside or on satellite compounds.

Commitment to Sustainability

MSF Energy is dedicated to advancing sustainable practices within the industry. Their collaboration with Volta Energy, who are based in the Netherlands underscore their commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

“At MSF Energy, we have a clear mission to challenge the status quo of of-grid power. Partnering with Volta Energy has allowed us to bring truly innovative hybrid technology to the UK market, tailored for industries that can no longer aford to ignore sustainability. Since beginning my journey at MSF Energy, I am incredibly proud to see the progress and impact we have made on how our customers continue to power their sites and projects and I am excited to see what the future holds

for us as a business. We’re proud to provide equipment that doesn’t just perform it protects the planet, reduces costs, and keeps our customers ahead of the curve. Fuel cell technology is the next step for us, and we are currently exploring methanol and propane generators. Whether it’s a construction site, a rail project, or a live flm set, we’re powering the future cleanly, quietly, and reliably.” Ryan Ross, National Sales Manager, MSF Energy.

Mason Street Furniture (MSF) Energy stands at the forefront of this revolution, delivering a new era of clean, mobile, and modular energy with our innovative range of hybrid generators.

Clean, Mobile, Modular Energy:

MSF’s hybrid generators are meticulously engineered to provide clean energy wherever you need it. By integrating advanced solar panels, high-capacity lithium-ion phosphate batteries, and efcient backup generators, MSF Energy delivers an unmatched combination of sustainability, fexibility, and reliability.

Silent Solar Operation: When running on solar, our units are virtually silent, eliminating the noise pollution associated with traditional diesel generators ideal for urban sites and sensitive environments.

Modular Design: MSF ofers units in multiple capacities 6kVa, 15kVa, and 45kVa ensuring the perfect ft for projects of any scale.

Mobility: Compact and robust, our generators are designed for easy transport and rapid deployment, even in challenging or remote locations.

Unrivalled Sustainability:

MSF Energy’s hybrid generators harness the power of the sun, drastically reducing reliance on fossil fuels and slashing greenhouse gas emissions. Our solutions are fully aligned with global sustainability goals and help your projects meet increasingly stringent environmental standards.

Up to 90% Fuel Savings: Live site data from Kent, UK, showed that our 15kVA unit running 24/7 for three months delivered dramatic reductions in diesel use translating to signifcant cost and CO₂ savings.

Zero Direct Emissions During Solar Operation: Solar energy is clean, renewable, and free once the system is installed, you’re generating power with zero direct emissions.

Backup Generator Flexibility: Our backup systems can run on diesel or HVO biodiesel, further reducing your carbon footprint and supporting your move toward net zero.

Economic Efficiency:

Switching to MSF Energy hybrid generators isn’t just good for the planet it’s great for your bottom line.

Signifcant Cost Savings: By reducing fuel consumption and maintenance needs, our hybrid generators deliver substantial savings over the lifetime of your project.

Flexible Rental Options: Not ready to purchase outright? We ofer fexible rental, so you only pay for what you use, when you use it.

Lower Maintenance: Fewer moving parts and less engine run time mean reduced wear and tear, minimizing downtime and repair costs.

Reliable Power, anywhere, MSF’s hybrid generators are built to thrive in the most demanding environments:

Continuous Power Supply: Integrated battery storage ensures uninterrupted energy, even at night or during cloudy weather. The backup generator automatically activates when battery levels drop, guaranteeing you never lose power.

Remote and Of-Grid Ready: Ideal for sites without grid access, including construction, rail, highways, flm & TV, and events.

Robust Performance: Engineered to perform in all weather conditions and across a wide temperature range.

Enhanced Site Safety and Comfort:

Reduced Noise Pollution: Enjoy a quieter, more productive work environment, improving both worker satisfaction and community relations.

Remote Monitoring: Advanced live reporting systems allow you to track fuel and energy usage in real time, optimizing efciency and preventing unexpected outages.

Improved Air Quality: By minimizing emissions, our generators contribute to healthier worksites and surrounding communities.

Technical Excellence: The 45kVA Hybrid Generator

MSF Energy’s fagship 45kVA hybrid generator exemplifes MSF Energy’s commitment to performance and innovation:

Optimum Output: 72kWh/day, with stabilized current and frequency control for sensitive equipment.

Automatic Operation: Backup generator starts at 20% battery, recharging batteries in just two hours for seamless transitions.

Proven Impact - Case Study Kent, UK

A major infrastructure project in Kent deployed an MSF Energy 15kVA hybrid generator to power site ofces, drying rooms, and food lighting 24/7 over three months. The results were clear:

Massive Diesel Savings: The hybrid system slashed fuel consumption by up to 90% compared to a conventional diesel generator.

CO₂ Reduction: Thousands of kilograms of emissions were avoided, supporting the client’s sustainability commitments.

Cost Efciency: The project delivered signifcant cost savings, demonstrating the fnancial as well as environmental benefts of hybrid power.

A46/A5630 Anstey Lane Improvement, Leicester (August –November 2024)

Industry Trends: The Future is Hybrid

The global temporary power market is booming, driven by a surge in the growing needs for sustainable, resilient energy solutions. Hybrid generators are at the heart of this transformation, combining the reliability of traditional power with the sustainability of renewables.

Digital and Smart Technologies: Advanced monitoring and control systems are becoming standard, optimizing performance and reducing waste.

Modular Power Systems: Flexible, scalable solutions like MSF Energy’s hybrid range are increasingly favored for their adaptability and rapid deployment.

Sustainability: With governments and industries setting ambitious carbon reduction targets, hybrid power is no longer optional, it’s essential.

Who Benefits from MSF Energy Hybrid Generators?

Construction & Infrastructure: Reliable, clean power for site ofces, tools, lighting, and welfare facilities.

Events, Film & TV & Hospitality: Silent, emission-free operation for concerts, festivals, flm sets and outdoor gatherings.

Remote & Of-Grid Projects: Energy independence for rail, highways, and emergency response.

Utilities & Telecoms: Uninterrupted power for critical infrastructure and communications.

Director’s Statement:

“As Director of MSF Energy, I’m proud to highlight our exceptional performance in delivering market-leading generator solutions that are transforming the temporary power market. Our comprehensive range of 6kVA, 15kVA, and 45kVA generators has consistently exceeded performance benchmarks, providing sites and projects with the reliable, efcient power solutions they demand.

“The construction sector faces increasing pressure to reduce environmental impact while maintaining operational excellence. Our generators address this challenge head-on, incorporating advanced fuel efciency technologies that signifcantly reduce emissions without compromising power output. The modular design of our 6kVA units makes them perfect for smaller construction applications, while our robust 15kVA and 45kVA models deliver the sustained power required for larger operations.

“Our strategic partnership with Volta Energy in the Netherlands has been instrumental in advancing our sustainability mission. This collaboration has enabled us to integrate cutting-edge European clean energy technologies into our product line, ensuring our generators meet the highest environmental standards while delivering unmatched reliability.

“The construction industry’s trust in MSF Energy refects our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and performance. As we continue expanding our partnership with Volta Energy, we’re positioning ourselves at the forefront of the industry’s green transformation, delivering solutions that power progress responsibly.”

Mark Atkinson, Director, MSF Energy.

Conclusion:

As the UK continues to seek sustainable and efcient power solutions, MSF Energy’s hybrid generators stand out as a reliable and eco-friendly choice. By integrating renewable energy sources with advanced technology, they provide a blueprint for the future of on-site power generation.

For more information on MSF Energy’s hybrid generators and how they can beneft your projects, visit: www.msftd.co.uk/energy or contact their team on 01234 781530, option 2.

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Artificial Intelligence and Machine Control: How Does it Aid in Machine Longevity

and Construction

Projects?

By Lorna Cowlin

Reflecting a year on from her first Plant Planet article about technology and AI, writer Lorna Cowlin goes deeper. Instead of asking what, this time she asks why…

My frst ever feature that I wrote for Plant Planet was about Artifcial Intelligence (AI), so it feels wonderfully full circle to be revisiting it again a year later. And despite having written for Plant Planet for a year now, and having explored AI in construction a lot more, one thing hasn’t changed…

When I think of AI, my mind still jumps to the Hollywood blockbusters that depict AI as evil robots that are going to take over the world.

But is that really the case?

Last time, I discussed the fears of technology, and if introducing it to the world of construction was the right idea. This time, I think it’s more important and benefcial if I delve into why we’re introducing it to the construction industry, and why it is the right thing to do.

Nowadays, technology is important in all aspects of life, and things really do revolve around it. Whether you’re a technophobe or a technophile or simply just a tech-granny, technology really is paving the way for us into a constructive future.

Let’s start simply… What even is AI?

AI stands for Artifcial Intelligence, which is something we’ve all come to know. AI is a very broad term when it comes to computing, but to put it simply, AI is a computer system that can perform tasks that humans can do, all minus one thing: a human touch. Also, with the clue in the name, AI is extremely smart. It can learn to do anything we can online in a matter of mere milliseconds. It’s set up to learn things that would normally require human intelligence, and after repeating said action over and over, at least a million times (and no, I’m not exaggerating!), this ‘machine-learning’ process has been completed. And it keeps learning. In terms of construction, this can come in very handy.

But even in the general world, stepping aside from construction, AI is everywhere. Even my technophobe Grandma who swears blind she barely uses technology let alone AI will be surprised how much she’s interacting with it despite being unaware! Our world is so dependent on it, but is that necessarily such a bad thing…?

So, we use AI without even realising?

Simple answer: yes! AI is all around us, even when we don’t realise it. We use it when we autocorrect our emails and texts, every time we drive up to a trafc light system and watch the colours change, our social media algorithms tailoring our feeds to ft our needs and interests… AI is part of our day-to-day lives, and sometimes it’s so subtle, we don’t even notice it. Even as a writer and social media content creator, my entire job is drenched with AI. I genuinely believe that without AI, our jobs would be incredibly difcult, and it’s virtually impossible to not lean towards AI to lend a helping hand, especially in a world that revolves around technology.

AI and technology in the construction industry

As I mentioned earlier, ‘machine learning’ can come in handy, especially for construction projects. By analysing the date from both electrical and building systems, AI can predict equipment failure and when maintenance will be needed. Using the machine-learning process, the system can pick this up prior to any dire need, alerting the issue before it has become a problem, therefore preventing mass delays.

In fact, anything we can do, so can AI. AI involvement in construction projects does not fall short of:

- Project management

- Improving quality and efciency

- Taking over the mundane

- Creates safer working environments

And that’s not all! When diving deeper, technology has allowed for bigger and better inventions to help with time consumption, operator usage, efciency and general health and safety. Even with simple things like storing data, isn’t having an AI system to log it all so much better and neater than hundreds of pieces of paper scattered all over the place?

So, in what ways does technology provide better resources to construction?

Augmented and Virtual Reality

Before this job, when someone mentioned Virtual Reality (VR), I thought about VR headsets and video games. Now, especially when writing this, my mind fickered back to the IPAF Elevation event I attended last October (2024). Executive Chairman and Chief Legal Ofcer for SIMS (Serious Industrial Motion Simulators), Jim Colvin discussed the importance of simulator training to provide in-depth training, thus creating safer working environments as a result. Not only do they provide simulation training, but they also provide Virtual Reality (VR) training too, aligning perfectly with PAL+. So, whilst yes, VR headsets are involved in this, it’s not so much about video games, it’s about education. This gives perfect practice before getting into a real machine.

Augmented Reality (AR) provides for extra precision and efciency too. The frst event I attended was Sunbelt Rental’s Open Day to promote greener, sustainable, innovative technology day at Wolverhampton

Construction Skills College. This was the frst time I was introduced to the Sunbelt Rental’s AR app, and I remember it blowing my mind. Even something so simple can provide so much help and eradicate unnecessary paperwork, saving time, energy and efort.

The app uses AR to create a 3D image of the equipment. The app helps you go through all the machines, equipment and tech you can hire from them to fnd the right item for you. Simply click on the item you would like to hire, then select “Place in Augmented Reality” and ta-daa! That item is now on your camera, an AI version standing in front of you. It also includes other features such as virtual walkarounds and a mass amount of useful information specifc to the equipment to help you make the right decision. By creating these detailed 3D images of tools, materials and machinery, you can even plan demolition sequences with the utmost precision.

Building Information Modelling (BIM)

More than just blue-prints, BIM is changing the way buildings are being designed and modelled by creating a comprehensive, data-rich model that improves planning,

automation, and efciency at every stage of a building’s life cycle. This is signifcant in the construction industry, as it helps improve efciency and collaboration, playing a key role in transforming how buildings are planned, built, and maintained. As a result, BIM helps streamline workfows, reduces errors, and integrates cutting-edge technologies like big data and IoT.

Trimble, an American technology company that specialises in software, hardware and services, especially in the felds of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), also ofer support networks and BIM systems. Trimble ofers constructible models that provide reliable information that is easily available for users through the of- and on-site construction supply chains. By creating 3D models, this results in more efciency, better decision-making, and cost savings at every stage of projects. As Trimble put it, “better data, better results”.

BIM helps streamline workflows, reduces errors, and integrates cutting-edge technologies like big data and IoT.

Telematics and Fleet Management

When you’re a word buf like me, new words and terms are exciting because it means I can research to my heart’s content to attain more knowledge. When I became a writer for Plant Planet, it was so fascinating to learn more about a world I initially knew nothing about. So, when I kept hearing the terms ‘telematics’ and ‘feet management’, I knew it was very important to look into…

First and foremost, let’s look at telematics. Construction telematics uses technology to remotely monitor and track the performance, location, and usage of heavy machinery and vehicles used in construction and demolition projects, ofering insights for improved efciency, productivity, and safety.

What it is:

Telematics leverages cellular/GPS IoT technology and onboard diagnostics data to track equipment location, usage, and health.

How it works:

- Cellular asset trackers collect data from construction machinery and send it to a software platform for interpretation.

- This data includes GPS location, engine hours, idling time, fuel consumption, and other performance metrics.

- Fleet managers can access this data from a single platform to gain insights into their assets and operations.

Overall, telematics provides data that you can’t otherwise fnd out or keep track of yourself. Once again, this shows that computer operation helps with human involvement, making the trickier tasks easier and more possible.

Now, what is fleet management?

A feet management system is a tool that aids organisations in managing and coordinating their work vehicles from a unifed database. Its core mission is to keep things simple and always running smoothly. Its main function is to gather, keep, process, track, report on, and convey information in order to learn from it – much like AI ‘machine learning’ I mentioned above!

ABAX is a company that specialises in this. As creators of their ABAX Tracking System, a one-stop platform to seamlessly connect your team, assets, and data, their main focus is to keep things operator-friendly, making the projects at hand as easy as possible. No professional installation is needed, and, as ABAX put it themselves, you can “get actionable insights and save time, money and resources”. What’s not to like about saving time and money, whilst getting better results on your construction project? It cuts down on hours of unnecessary usage, therefore reduces risks, accidents and other issues, creating a much safer environment for both the users and the machines.

So, last year

I looked at what, now I’ve explained why!

At the end of my article last year, I said that “the future of AI is bright and promising”, and a year on from that, I have had so many opportunities to research and even go see why I was right. AI and technology may have been feared, but it’s clear to see that the construction industry is all about moving forward, and the companies within that are adapting to the new technological world very well. AI and technology no longer hinders, and it’s okay to be dependent on something that actually helps and improves.

A lot can change in a year, but my initial last comment has not. Last time I preached the benefts of “embracing” what AI has to ofer. This time, I will expand on it by saying that we have, and it’s working. Keep moving forward!

ST GEORGE’S HALL, LIVERPOOL

Euro Auctions: Off-Site Sales, Getting More For Your Machines

and Buying Like a Pro

Behind the Scenes at an Off-Site Auction with Euro Auctions, making more money at auction, and buying like a pro, Phil from Plant Planet sits down with Chris Osborne from Euro Auctions to explore how big, heavy plant auctions work.

Phil (Plant Planet): Chris, Euro Auctions is known for its scale and global reach, but what really caught our eye is your of-site sales. For readers who might not know— what exactly is an “of-site” sale?

Chris Osborne (Euro Auctions): Good question, Phil. An of-site sale is where we take the auction to the client’s location rather than using one of our permanent auction sites. This might be a contractor’s yard, a neutral site like an airfeld, or even a piece of farmland. We’ve done this for retiring businesses, plant hire frms ofoading stock, or administrators needing a quick turnaround. It’s all about fexibility—and precision.

Phil: Sounds like a major logistical challenge. What’s the frst step in making one of these work?

Chris: It always starts with understanding the inventory. We catalogue hundreds of thousands of lots each year, so we’ve developed a solid sense for the true value of machinery. That’s crucial, especially when giving clients a projection of what a sale could realise. Each item is individually listed with details like, make, model, hours, specifcation, service history—you name it. We want bidders to feel confdent from the moment they open the catalogue.

Phil: And beyond the machinery itself, there’s the story behind the sale too, right?

Chris: Absolutely. Messaging is a big part of the process. Our PR and marketing teams work with the client to get the tone right—particularly in sensitive situations like retirements or liquidations. It’s about honesty, clarity, and making sure buyers understand the opportunity and the genuine nature of the sale.

Phil: You’ve got buyers in over 100 countries. How do you get the word out?

Chris: Our database is global. Every sale is promoted with mail shots, online campaigns, targeted advertising, and strong media outreach. The aim is to make sure that our buyer base—from Birmingham to Brisbane—knows exactly what’s going under the hammer, and when.

Phil: When I’ve seen your of-site layouts, they look incredibly slick. How do you achieve that?

Chris: Site layout is critical. We replicate the set-up of our fxed auction yards— grouping similar lots, lining everything up with military precision. It gives buyers confdence, helps with comparison, and just looks professional. Sometimes we’re onsite weeks ahead to make it right.

Regarding the infrastructure for the sale, especially when you’re building from scratch, that’s where our team excels. If there’s no existing infrastructure, we bring in marquees, welfare units, catering, you name it. We set up full registration facilities and even screens streaming the live sale. It’s not just an auction—it’s an experience. We create Wi-Fi networks on site to enable online bidding and real-time communication. Our “auction camper van” acts as a mobile control centre—it’s kitted out with all the tech we need to monitor live, phone, and online bids. Our auctioneers—many of whom fy in from the States—are pros at keeping the energy high while managing global interest.

Phil: Talk to me about registration. What does a bidder need to do to take part?

Chris: It’s straightforward. Bidders either create an account or use an existing one, provide ID, and if it’s their frst time, pay a 10% deposit based on the value of what they expect to bid on. Once that’s done, they’re ready to go. And then, when the sale is over, it’s time for despatch and collection. Once payment clears, we work with buyers—and often with the vendors too—to arrange collection or delivery. In many cases we coordinate third-party haulage to get the equipment where it needs to go.

Phil: You’ve handled some pretty high-profle of-site sales. Any standout projects?

Chris: Plenty. In the rail sector we disposed of a consignment of specialist Road Rail Excavators for the Quattro Group and AB2000. The Hewden crane sale was huge—127 mobile cranes sold in fve hours on the Newark Showground runway for £27 million. We’ve hosted retirement sales like Blythewood Plant Hire, administration sales for Hawk Plant and Quinto Crane, and liquidations like Henry Construction where equipment had to be collected from high-rise sites across London. Buckingham Plant Hire Ltd, stepping away from heavy plant to concentrate on sustainability. CP Hire who undertook a full feet upgrade. Each one is diferent, but the approach is the same—professional, thorough, and tailored to the client.

Phil: That’s some range. What do you think sets Euro Auctions apart when it comes to of-site work?

Chris: I’d say it’s the people. We’re a family business, and we understand that this kind of sale is often a big moment in someone’s journey—whether they’re retiring, restructuring or just moving on. We bring experience, empathy, and a team that genuinely wants to do the best job possible. That’s what makes the diference.

Getting the Best Price For Your Machines

Phil: Chris, we’ve talked about what goes into staging a successful of-site sale, but let’s talk specifcs. If I’m a seller looking to maximise the price for my plant or machinery, what can I do to get the best result on auction day?

Chris: The hammer price doesn’t just depend on the item itself—it’s about timing, condition, and presentation. The market mood, available inventory, and even overseas demand all play their part, but preparing your machine properly can make a serious diference to its fnal value.

Phil: So where should a seller start?

Chris: Location is key. Diferent regions attract diferent types of buyers. For example, mini excavators with canopies sell particularly well in Spain, whilst zero-tail swing machines with blades and hi spec will sell for a premium in Dormagen, Germany. Our team—especially the local sales managers—can advise where your machine is likely to get the most attention. We can even help with the logistics of shipping overseas.

Phil: Makes sense. What about the presentation of the machine itself?

Chris: Honestly, think like a buyer. A well-presented machine always fetches more. Sometimes it’s just the simple things—giving it a good clean, replacing a missing mirror, fxing a light. We always say: If you can do it, do it. You’d be amazed how much small touches can add to the fnal hammer price. Getting that fnal one bid!

Phil: I’m guessing paperwork plays a big factor in setting the value of that machine at auction.

Chris: Absolutely. A service history—especially if it’s been maintained by a main dealer—is a massive plus. Buyers trust a machine that’s been looked after. CE documentation is another big one, which can encourage those extra bids giving buyers confdence in what they’re buying. And make sure the serial plate is intact and legible. If you’re selling a vehicle, having the registration document is a must.

Phil: What about cleanliness? Does a jet wash really make that much of a diference?

Chris: You’d be surprised. A clean cab, tidy foor mats, and clear windows can easily add £500 or more to the fnal price. Buyers will associate cleanliness with care. A machine that starts frst time always makes a good impression. Make sure the battery’s fully charged, the fuel tank is at least half full, and fuel flters are clean. These are simple things, but they help the buyer feel good about bidding.

Phil: How about tyres, wheels and attachments?

Chris: Defnitely worth the attention. Matching tyres on each axle is important, or better still, all round. Avoid cheap replacements. For wheels, make sure they’re clean, undamaged, and true. As for attachments, they can be the clincher. A solid set of buckets with good teeth can tip the scales in your favour, especially if someone’s looking for a turnkey, ready for work machine.

Phil: Any common mistakes sellers make?

Chris: A few. Letting oil leaks go unaddressed is a big one. Same goes for cracked glass, broken bulbs, or missing mirrors. It all suggests the machine hasn’t been looked after. Another is assuming “someone else will clean it up.” That “someone else” should be you if you want the best result.

Buying Well At Auction

Phil: Chris, we’ve spoken about how to prepare your kit for sale, but let’s fip it round—what about buying? For someone heading to auction to pick up a good machine, what advice would you give?

Chris: Auctions can be exciting—but also daunting. You’ve got to know what you’re looking for, stay calm, and act fast. Here is a list of tips to help buyers think like a pro.

1. Research – Know what you want before you arrive. Make a list of requirements and avoid impulse buys.

2. Budget – Decide your upper limit. Include transport and any post-sale work. Don’t chase prices.

3. Register – Sign up online or in person, bring ID and bank details, and get your bidding number.

4. Visual Check – Look for leaks, smoke, worn tyres, dodgy controls. Estimate repair costs.

5. Condition – Watch for fresh paint, hidden issues, or signs of recent repairs. Ask why parts have been replaced.

6. Damage Limitation – Check for rust, oil quality, leaks, and poor storage indicators.

7. VIN Plate – Look for tampering, unusual positioning or replacements.

8. Contractors’ Kit – Check for signs of heavy use on inappropriate machinery.

9. Check the History – A quick call can reveal how hard a machine’s been worked.

10. Run It – Fire it up. Listen, drive it, check gears and lugging power.

Phil: That’s solid advice. Sounds like auctions are a great place to acquire new machines, with your top 10 tips.

Chris: Thanks, Phil. The key is preparation—whether you’re buying or selling. That’s how you get the best value.

About Euro Auctions –25 Plus Years of Global Growth

Established in 1998 in Dromore, Northern Ireland, Euro Auctions has grown from a local family-run auctioneer into one of the world’s leading auctioneers of construction and agricultural machinery, industrial plant, and equipment. Now, the biggest auction house in Europe, and the largest privately owned auction operator in the world, Euro Auctions continues to uphold the values on which it was founded: integrity, transparency, and delivering true market value for its clients.

Euro Auctions has expanded signifcantly from its original base, operating under the belief that unreserved auctions are the most efective way to buy and sell equipment. Today, the company conducts major sales at 15 sites globally, with permanent auction facilities in the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, and North America. With recent strategic developments, Euro Auctions now operates fve key sites in Canada, further strengthening its reach and capacity across North America.

This growth refects the Group’s commitment to connecting buyers and sellers on a global scale, while maintaining the personal, customer-focused approach that has been its hallmark since day one. Euro Auctions provides sellers with access to strong international and local markets, supported by expert teams, cutting-edge online bidding technology, and a deep understanding of industry trends. Whether purchasing in-person or online, bidders from around the world trust Euro Auctions for its consistency, transparency, and results-driven approach.

At the heart of Euro Auctions’ success is its dedicated team – many of whom have been with the company from its early days – and the strong, long-standing relationships it has built with customers, suppliers, and industry partners alike. As the business marks this important milestone, it continues to look ahead, investing in infrastructure, digital innovation, and global expansion to meet evolving client needs.

With more than 200+ auctions conducted annually, the Euro Auctions Group handles hundreds of thousands of lots each year, making it the go-to platform for contractors, farmers, plant hirers, and dealers looking to buy and sell machinery with confdence.

Now in its 27th year, Euro Auctions remains steadfast in its mission: to ofer clients unrivalled service, global reach, and access to true market value at auction.

For more information, visit www.euroauctions.com

MAXIMISING UPTIME AND OIL LIFE IN PLANT EQUIPMENT: THE KLEENOIL ADVANTAGE

In the world of plant and construction equipment, uptime is everything. Machines are pushed to their limits under extreme working conditions—dusty environments, heavy loads, and long operational hours. But one silent culprit behind costly downtime is often overlooked: oil contamination.

Kleenoil understand how vital hydraulic and lubrication systems are to plant machinery performance. But we also know how quickly oil degradation— through particulate, water, and oxidative contamination—can lead to component wear, overheating, and unexpected breakdowns. That’s why THE kleenoil bypass fltration systems are purposebuilt to ofer a simple, efective solution that signifcantly extends oil life, reduces maintenance costs, and protects your most valuable assets.

Why Conventional Filtration Isn’t Enough

Most OEM flters are designed to protect machinery from catastrophic failure, not to preserve oil condition. They often miss sub-micron particles and water content— the two leading causes of hydraulic and engine oil degradation. Kleenoil systems, by contrast, continuously polish oil down to below 3 micron and continuously remove all water as it is created to below 0.05%. The result? Oil stays cleaner for longer, and wear is drastically reduced.

Real Results in the Field

Clients have seen reductions in oil changes by up to 80%, fewer flter replacements, and signifcantly extended component life—especially in hydraulic pumps, valves, and motors.

But it’s not just about extending service life. Clean oil improves machine responsiveness, maintains system

pressures, and reduces fuel consumption by lowering internal drag. Over time, the operational and environmental benefts speak for themselves.

Easy to Install. Proven to Perform.

Kleenoil systems are compact, modular, and easy to retroft onto any plant equipment—excavators, dumpers, telehandlers, crushers, and more. They work in parallel with your existing setup, and once installed, the maintenance is straightforward: flter elements are simple to replace and highly cost-efective.

Supporting Predictive Maintenance

In addition to fltration, KLEENOIL ofer a full suite of oil analysis and sampling services—helping clients move toward predictive maintenance strategies. With regular condition monitoring, operators can catch problems early, optimise service scheduling, and reduce unplanned downtime.

A Smarter, Cleaner Future

As the construction and plant industries face growing pressure to reduce carbon emissions and improve sustainability, Kleenoil supports this transition. By maximising oil longevity and reducing waste, helping operators operate cleaner and more responsibly—without compromising performance.

To learn more about how Kleenoil can improve the reliability and efciency of your plant equipment, contact us at sales@kleenoil.co.uk or visit: www.kleenoil.co.uk

NEW SOUTH WALES MINE EMBRACES A DIGITAL FUTURE

Aprominent mine in New South Wales, Australia, took a signifcant step forward in the modernisation of their equipment and operations by going digital with RCT - Powered by Epiroc.

Renowned for extracting tin, lead, and zinc, the site’s commitment to innovation has led to this upgrade which will ensure greater efciency, safety, and sustainability on site.

For years, the site has successfully operated a feet of CAT 2900s using RCT’s analogue system.

Recently the decision was made to transition their production feet of CAT 2900s to a full digital system – AutoNav Lite, allowing the site access to enhanced diagnostics and predictive maintenance.

Operators control the Automated LHD machines from customised Telecabins, mounted to Toyota Land Cruiser Utilities.

Now, with the implementation of a digital operation, they can monitor machinery status, from these vehicles without needing to go back to a central control room to observe/diagnose the LHD information.

This signifcantly increases operational efciency and improves safety by reducing the time workers spend in potentially hazardous underground areas.

Although these cabins were already in operation, they underwent a customised digital hardware upgrade to meet the site’s specifc needs. This included network management, and connectivity, ensuring that even the most remote areas of the mine are always connected.

The site’s move to digital is only the beginning. The company plans to continue refning and enhancing its systems to further optimise machine performance. With new hardware and technology being developed at a rapid pace, the mine owner has an eye on further innovations that will keep the mine at the forefront of the industry.

This digital transition not only strengthens the mine’s operational capabilities but also positions the site as a leader in mining innovation adoption.

Discover more: rct-global.com

Operators control the Automated LHD machines from customised Telecabins, mounted to Toyota Land Cruiser Utilities.

XWATCH LAUNCHES XW5-R – RAISING THE BAR FOR RAIL SAFETY SYSTEMS

Xwatch Safety Solutions, part of Hexagon, will ofcially launch the XW5-R at Rail Live 2025 – a new rail-specifc version of its proven XW5 system – delivering a fully compliant, quick-to-install safety solution designed specifcally for roadrail vehicles (RRVs) and rail-based operations. Set to be showcased on stand G8 at the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre this June, the XW5-R is a direct response to industry demand for a practical, robust safety system that meets the unique challenges of working on or alongside the railway.

Built on the trusted XW5 platform, the XW5-R integrates height, slew, and Rated Capacity Indicator (RCI) functionality into a compact, robust unit. It delivers clear operator guidance and active monitoring during lifting operations, and will be fully compliant with RIS-1530-PLT Issue 7 and EN15746, the key industry standards for plant working on or near rail infrastructure. The system meets UK Performance Level D safety requirements as standard.

The XW5-R supports Any Line Open (ALO) working and is designed for safe use under Overhead Line Equipment (OLE), helping operators maintain compliance and control in even the most complex or constrained environments.

Trackside work brings its own risks – from passing trains and overhead lines to limited clearance and the need for specialist rail gear. The XW5-R is engineered to help operators manage those risks efectively, while remaining simple to operate.

Designed for fexibility, the XW5-R can be installed on high- or low-rail systems, variable gauge rail gear, wheeled or tracked machines, and a wide range of boom confgurations. It’s suitable for working directly on-track or alongside the railway – ofering true versatility for both contractors and plant hire companies.

The system includes multiple preconfgured lifting duties – including tandem lifting duties – with selectable modes for diferent operational needs, such as greater lifting over the front of the machine. It monitors rail gear and oscillating axles without controlling them, giving the operator a clear view of safe working limits without overcomplication.

XW-Insite is included as standard with every XW5-R system, bringing powerful telematics and safety monitoring into the rail environment. Developed in partnership with technology specialist PVS, the cloud-based platform gives contractors and feet managers real-time visibility of machine status, operator

behaviour and key safety parameters — including height, slew and RCI limits. It also provides live diagnostics, fuel usage, location tracking and environmental data, all accessible remotely or on-site. This level of insight supports compliance, reduces downtime and enables smarter, safer decisions when working in high-risk rail settings.

Jemma Dycer Hopkins, Sales and Operation Manager, Xwatch said, “The XW5-R is a direct response to growing demand for a reliable, cost-efective rail safety system that doesn’t cut corners. It’s quick to install, straightforward to use, and backed by Xwatch’s reputation for trusted engineering, ongoing support, and a UK-wide service network.”

According to the Xwatch team, the XW5-R flls a long-standing gap in the market – delivering all the essential safety features needed to meet RIS-1530 and EN15746 guidance (pending), without the complexity or added cost of functions many users don’t need.

Developed and supported in the UK, the XW5-R brings clarity, compliance, and confdence to on-track operations –ofering rail contractors a smarter, more practical safety choice.

The XW5-R will be ofcially launched and demoed at Rail Live 2025, which will take place on 18–19 June 2025 at Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre, Warwickshire. Visit the Xwatch team on the Hexagon stand G8 to see the system in action and learn how it can support safer rail operations at a competitive price, without compromise.

To fnd out more about the XW5-R or the full Xwatch range, visit: www.xwatch.co.uk

STEELWRIST CELEBRATES 20 YEARS AND IS AGAIN RECOGNISED AS ONE OF SWEDEN’S BEST MANAGED COMPANIES

Customers, partners and staf gathered at the Steelwrist headquarters in Rosersberg, Sweden, on May 14-16, to celebrate the company’s 20 years in business. The program included a factory tour and the possibility to see the full product range on display outside the production facility.

Naturally, the recently launched new models in the third-generation tiltrotators, the XTR15 and the XTR23, as well as the SQ40 automatic coupler with matching work tools, were presented. There was a further highlight and more reasons to celebrate when it was announced on May 20 that Steelwrist received Sweden’s Best Managed Companies recognition for the sixth consecutive year.

Steelwrist was founded in Sweden in 2005, frst setting up a shop in a garage north of Stockholm. The company has since then grown from a small newcomer to the global leader it is today and has delivered products to thousands of customers worldwide over the last 20 years. The focus remains the same as when the company was founded: to develop, manufacture and sell tiltrotators, quick couplers and work tools that make excavators more efcient.

At an exclusive event held at the Steelwrist headquarters in Rosersberg, Sweden, guests from around the world gathered to celebrate the company’s 20th anniversary. During an extensive factory tour of the 13.500 square meters production facility, the guests

got a presentation of the complete manufacturing process of the wide product range. Additionally, at a large outdoor exhibition area, the guests could explore the full Steelwrist product range, including news presented at the recent Bauma exhibition. The program was concluded with an evening event at the nearby Steninge Bruk to top the day of.

In connection with the event, Steelwrist launched a 20th anniversary movie highlighting the major milestones in the company’s history and featuring interviews with key company representatives. After its frst screening for the guests, the movie is now available on all relevant social media platforms.

“I’m thankful to all guests from near and far who took the time to join us and celebrate our frst 20 years in business. It has been a tremendous journey so far, which has been made possible thanks to our customers, partners and team members. With our latest product news, like the automatic couplers for compact excavators and the third generation tiltrotators, we are ready for the next 20 years and committed to bringing great solutions to customers all over the world”, says Stefan Stockhaus, Steelwrist CEO.

Steelwrist has received Sweden’s Best Managed Companies recognition for the sixth consecutive year, and upholds the gold member status. The recognition is sponsored by Deloitte in partnership with Swedbank.

“We want to extend a special congratulations to our gold and platinum

members who have received the award at least four and seven years in a row, respectively. It is inspiring to see so many of the companies continue to strive and measure themselves against the set goals”, says Lina Thörn, partner at Deloitte and responsible for Best Managed Companies in Sweden.

Best Managed Companies is a quality award given to private Swedish companies based on criteria that assess strategic direction, operational capacity, corporate culture, and fnancial development. The program was founded by Deloitte in Canada in 1993 and has since been established in over 20 countries worldwide. Sweden’s Best Managed Companies was launched in 2018 by Deloitte, and this year marks the seventh time the award has been presented. An independent jury has selected the 17 companies receiving the award this year.

“We are very proud to receive Sweden’s Best Managed Companies recognition for the sixth time, and it adds to the joy of celebrating our 20 years as a company. I believe that this award is a result of our unique culture, the commitment and hard work of our global team and our strive for continuous improvement throughout the company. This reafrms that we are very well positioned to continue our successful journey also in the future”, says Stefan Stockhaus, Steelwrist CEO.

Find out more: www.steelwrist.com

Plant Planet June/july 25

‘Best in Class’ No.1

AI AND MACHINE CONTROL

Copyright

Conditions for Advertising

Advanced Warning Improve

efciency with performance monitoring

FLANNERY

MSF ENERGY

EURO AUCTIONS

MERLOMOBILITY GAINS MOMENTUM ACROSS CONSTRUCTION AND AGRICULTURAL FLEETS

Smart, Connected, and Simple to Use

Security, Geofencing and Timefencing Features

MerloExtend: Peace of Mind with Predictive Support

QUALITY OIL ISN’T AN OPTION – ITS ESSENTIAL ! WHY CUTTING CORNERS ON ENGINE OIL COSTS YOU MORE IN THE LONG RUN

OPERATOR CHALLENGE RETURNS TO PLANTWORX 2025 –JCB JOINS AS HEADLINE SPONSOR

NEW ORDERS SURGE AS SECTOR GEARS UP FOR PLANTWORX 2025

NOT JUST A CREDIT SCORE WITH DANIEL HUGHES, REGIONAL SALES MANAGER

Stage 1

Stage 2

I M

MACHINE CONTROL IS THE FUTURE –BUT THE REST OF YOUR MACHINE STILL MATTERS

Supporting Smarter Machines with Reliable Mechanical Performance

Aging Equipment and the Hidden Costs of Overlooked Maintenance

A Cost-Effective Way to Extend Machine Life

Meeting Market Expectations with Confidence

RAIL LIVE 2025: THE UK’S PREMIER OUTDOOR RAILWAY INDUSTRY EVENT RETURNS

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

TIGER PLANT HIRE INVESTS IN CUTTING-EDGE TELEMATICS FROM PVS DATA TO ELEVATE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Optimised Fleet Management & Customer Benefits

FROM THE GROUND UP: THE PUMP TECHNOLOGY POWERING CIVIL AND RAIL PROJECTS

Hire or Buy? A Smarter Approach to Pump Procurement

The Case for Ownership: Dewatering Pumps

1. Long-Term Cost Savings

Immediate Availability

Recommended Ready-to-go Dewatering Solution

The Essential Role of Multistage Pumps in Rail Operations

Pumps ARE Infrastructure

LIGHTHOUSE CHARITY INSIDE THE HELPLINE

UKCW London sets the agenda for built environment and returns to capital

High-impact education and industry leadership

Event Highlights

Celebrating Industry Role Models

Exhibitor Feedback

Looking Ahead

Life with Lana // Right Tools for the Job

Control system

Plant Equipment that Pays for Itself

AI INNOVATION LEADS SAFETY

SHIELD GLOBAL’S DEVELOPMENT OF LIFE-SAVING TECHNOLOGIES

IN THEIR TRACKS STOP ACCIDENTS

Take control of on-site safety with Safety Shield

FOR ALL PLANT & OFF ROAD MACHINERY British Manufacturers

QUALITY LUBRICANTS

The Evolving World of Lubricants for Plant, Agricultural & Commercial Vehicles

3. ADVANCED PROTECTION FOR HEAVY LOADS

8. HOW WELL IS WITHAM GROUP PLACED TO KEEP PACE WITH THIS CHANGE?

TO INNOVATION

BAUMA 2025

DAY ONE

DAY TWO

DAY THREE

DAY FOUR

TO CONCLUDE…

XTR20 New

Tiltrotator

technology AT ITS BEST!

AFC ENERGY/HYAMTEC

PROVIDING THE

SOLUTIONS TO DECARBONISE THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

PIONEERING THE REPLACEMENT OF FOSSIL FUEL GENERATION

WHY DOES THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY NEED TO DECARBONISE?

UK CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY FACES PRESSURE

THE AFC ENERGY SOLUTION

IN

IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER:

EFFORTLESS CONTROL

PRODUCTIVITY

INTEGRATED 2D & 3D CAPABILITIES

START SMARTER