Plant Equipment and Hire March 2018 | Page 52

PRODUCT FOCUS costs by ensuring no extra wear and tear on equipment and helping to eliminate rework through reliable, repeatable precision. Specifically for excavators, CASE offers a 1-D, 2-D, and 3-D version of its iCon Excavating System (iXES). The iXE1 1-D system works with a one-direction slope and uses three inclinometer sensors mounted on the boom, stick and bucket, with the display indicating the level. The iXE2 2-D dual-slope system combines the depth, pitch, and roll to give a complete picture of the excavation works and uses a compass to fix the slope direction. The iXE3 3-D system from Leica Geosystems works with high-precision GPS and can monitor the excavation position by means of a digital model, improving efficiency rates by up to 30%. Volvo CE’s CareTrack and Komatsu’s KomTrax solutions monitor machine utilisation and fuel consumption, while tracking maintenance and servicing requirements. Such systems can also be integrated with the dealer network to facilitate parts ordering and service scheduling, further streamlining operations. Every OEM has its own ideas about how best to improve its products and keep its customers satisfied, but in general, the focus is likely to remain on the core principles of minimising downtime, increasing sustainability, and reducing operating costs. The only difference is likely to be how much each manufacturer focuses on each area, and the particular ways in which it chooses to implement technology to address them. ■ OEMs are working to provide their customers with the best possible tool to help them increase productivity and lower operating costs.” SOURCES 1. 2. Wang, J., Yang, Z., Liu, S., Zhang, Q. & Han, Y. 2016. A comprehensive overview of hybrid construction machinery. Advances in Mechanical Engineering, 8(3):1–15. http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/1687814016636809. Wolski, P. 2018. How severe is the drought? An analysis of the latest data. GroundUp, 22 January. https://www.groundup.org.za/article/how-severe-drought-detailed-look-data. GET LISTED! An easy-to-use, mobile-friendly online directory designed to bring together buyers and suppliers in the global plant and equipment sector. BRONZE SILVER GOLD DIAMOND ONE TRUSTED DIRECTORY for all things equipment & hire RELIABLE INFO IS ONLY A CLICK AWAY WWW.EQUIPMENTANDHIRE.CO.ZA 50 MARCH 2018