New Holland Construction introduced its E55B compact excavator at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2011 in Las Vegas

Featuring a large boom and arm for a wider operating range, the New Holland E55Bx delivers 11,240 pound-feet of bucket digging force.

Rated at 39 net horsepower, with an operating weight of 12,295 pounds and a dig depth of 12 feet 10 inches, the E55Bx has the size and power for tackling various applications, including landscaping, demolition or commercial construction applications. With a cab height of 8 feet 4 inches, the compact excavator is easy to transport between jobsites.

The E55Bx includes the same design features found on larger New Holland excavators. The boom, arm and swing bracket on the new compact excavator feature large cross-section segments for greater attachment strength. The lower structure extends to the sprockets, which reinforces the tracks and undercarriage at the optimal points. To match ground conditions, both rubber and steel tracks are available for the E55Bx excavator.

The radiator features a new intake method that helps prevent clogging and makes cleaning simple and easy. In the event of an unexpected engine shutdown, a “no tools” fuel-tank drain valve and accumulator allows attachments to be safely lowered using in-cab controls. An easy-access electrical compartment beneath the seat can also be checked outside the cab at ground level.

The E55Bx includes a standard dozer blade — featuring an increased 38-degree approach angle — for finish grading. For increased backfill and grading ability, an optional four-way dozer blade is also available. A variety of attachments are also available, including buckets, hammers and augers. The 19.8-gallon fuel tank extends operation time between refueling, keeping the New Holland E55Bx on the job longer.

The large ROPS/FOPS cab features a larger front window and wider rear window. Air conditioning is standard.

In addition to the E55Bx, the New Holland compact excavator product line includes the E18B, E27B, E35B and E50B. New Holland also offers a full range of mid- and full-sized excavators.

The team competed against 23 other teams from around the United States and Canada for the title. The competition took place March 22-24 in Las Vegas during CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2011.

The 2011 Construction Challenge consisted of two parts: the H2Oh Yeah! Challenge and the Road Rumble Challenge sponsored by Ditch Witch (The Charles Machine Works).

The Road Rumble Challenge required each team to build a device that delivered construction materials from one location to another over rough terrain on a custom-designed course. The H2Oh Yeah! Challenge required students to answer questions in a game show format and then participate in a mini-challenge that involved solving real-world water infrastructure problems.

The challenges allowed students to showcase their creative problem-solving skills, knowledge of mathematics and engineering and ability to work together as a team. In addition, students were exposed to leaders in the construction industry and learned about the variety of construction careers available. The winning team received scholarships and a variety of prizes.

AEM initiated the Construction Challenge in 2007 as a response to the severe shortage of qualified workers to meet future construction needs. As a sign of its success, Volvo Construction Equipment signed on as the presenting sponsor of the competition.

The Construction Challenge blends the creative problem-solving methodology of Destination ImagiNation with subject matter from AEM to create a program that engages youth in a fun learning experience and exposes them to new careers in the construction industry. After the first year, nearly 70 percent of Construction Challenge participants said they are now considering a career in construction.

“These students continue to impress. Their knowledge of infrastructure and water issues and the devices they were able to build and maneuver over a tough course are a testament to the hard work they put in to prepare for the finals,” said Al Cervero, senior vice president at AEM. “AEM and all of our sponsoring companies look forward to the chance to welcome them into the construction industry.”

The Construction Challenge offers a chance for students, teachers, parents and community leaders to learn more about the construction industry and the need for skilled employees to deal with infrastructure problems such as crumbling bridges, overcrowded roadways and aging water and wastewater systems. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment in the construction industry is projected to increase by 1.3 million jobs by 2018.

2011 Construction Challenge Results

Overall Winners

1st Place – Miami Valley Career Technology Center, Clayton, Ohio, sponsored by Ohio CAT.

2nd Place – Pearce and Richardson High Schools, Dallas, Texas, sponsored by Kobelco Cranes North America.

3rd Place – Creekview, R.L. Turner and Newman Smith High Schools, Carrollton, Texas, sponsored by Liebherr.

Road Rumble Challenge Winners

1st Place – Pearce and Richardson High Schools, Dallas, Texas, sponsored by Kobelco Cranes North America.

2nd Place – Bartlett High School, Bartlett, Illinois, sponsored by Volvo Construction Equipment.

3rd Place – Creekview, R.L. Turner and Newman Smith High Schools, Carrollton, Texas, sponsored by Liebherr

H2Oh Yeah! Challenge Winners

1st Place – Chippewa Falls Senior High School, Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, sponsored by Astec Industries.

2nd Place – William Henry Harrison High School, Harrison, Ohio, sponsored by Gorman-Rupp Company.

3rd Place – Bartlett High School, Bartlett, Illinois, sponsored by Volvo Construction Equipment.

Kobleco SK350 Mark 9

The new Kobelco Mark 9 excavators – the SK260-9, SK295-9 and SK350-9 –  feature an upgrade to Kobelco’s intelligent hydraulics as well as introduce a new economy power mode.

The machines launch what the manufacturer claims is the industry’s first selective catalytic reduction (SCR) emission solution for excavators. The excavators also feature a new ROPS/FOPS cab for a more comfortable work environment.

“With the new Mark 9 models, Kobelco continues its tradition as a technology leader,” said Reece Norwood, Kobelco platform manager. “Long known for delivering the precise control and feel that expert operators prefer, these new Kobelco excavators can dig the trench, crane the pipe and finish with even better precision. Plus, our new SCR solution will deliver more engine power and fuel efficiency.”

The operating weights for the Kobelco Mark 9 excavators range from 59,524 to 80,909 pounds, and dig depths range from 23 feet to 24 feet 10 inches. These three new models deliver 181, 197 and 269 horsepower, respectively.

Upgraded Intelligent Total Control System

The upgraded Intelligent Total Control System (ITCS) on all three excavators incorporates the culmination of three generations of continuous improvement in hydraulic con

Kobelco SK260 Mark 9

trols, based on extensive customer input and product testing.

“The Kobelco Mark 9 excavators set the industry standard in terms of controllability, especially in multifunction applications,” Norwood said. “Operators will appreciate the impressive control and smoothness, and the added confidence will make them even more productive. The ease of operation allows even a novice excavator operator to be productive on the job.”

By choosing SCR technology for meeting Tier 4 Interim emissions regulations, Kobelco provides leadership in engine performance, productivity and fuel efficiency.

The new Mark 9 excavator engines also provide a new economy work mode that takes Kobelco’s patented ITCS to a new level, maintaining productivity while increasing fuel efficiency by an average of 10 percent over previous models. A new control monitor provides key operating data, including a new function which graphs fuel consumption per hour, and a rear camera view.

A wide range of applications

The largest of the new Mark 9 excavators, the SK350-9 is one of the most productive machines in its size class. This machine is engineered for heavy applications, including road and bridge, sewer and underground utilities and mainline pipeline construction.

To meet customers’ needs for a wide variety of applications, the Kobelco Mark 9 excavators are available with several factory-available configurations – including High & Wide, Long Reach and Mass Excavation versions – and a choice of three undercarriage options. Heavy-duty frames, booms, arms and undercarriages are standard on all three Mark 9 excavators.

The SK260-9 Long Reach has a maximum reach of more than 60 feet. The SK295-9 High & Wide has a more stable stance, making it ideal for such applications as craning large pipe, loading out trucks, and scrap and forestry work.

Additional features on the new Kobelco Mark 9 excavators include a rear-view camera to expand the operator’s view to the back of the machine, rear work lamps for improved visibility, swing flashers and step extensions.

Kobelco Mark 9 excavators are also compatible with grade control systems from leading suppliers to meet customer preference and applications.

Kobelco also offers a new tooth system on buckets for increased productivity and uptime. The Kobelco SmartFit bucket tooth system with tips can be quickly switched without hammering pins.

LAS VEGAS—New Holland Construction

The Super Boom Road Show will take place at 36 New Holland dealerships across the United States and Canada. Highlighting each event is a skid steer challenge where equipment operators compete for the best time on a special course. Prizes and cash are awarded to the top finishers.

In addition, the operator who wins each local competition will be flown to Louisville, Ky., to compete in a final competition during GIE+EXPO 2011 (Oct. 27-29) to determine the North American champion. The grand prize winner will receive a new, fully-loaded New Holland 200 Series skid steer loader – valued at $35,000 – for their sponsoring company, plus $5,000 and New Holland gear for the operator.

“The skid steer challenge demonstrates the advantages of our new 200 Series skid steers,” said Dave December, New Holland Construction marketing manager. “This includes outstanding control, easy attachment changes, precise maneuverability, superior visibility and best-in-class dump height and reach.

“We want to find out who is the best skid steer operator in the industry with our machines,” December continued. “From a field of more than 2,000 competitors, 36 operators will meet head-to-head for the New Holland Championship in Louisville.”

New Holland dealer events and prizes

Competitors who participate in the skid steer challenge events at New Holland dealerships are eligible to win many prizes. In addition to competing for a chance to be flown (with a guest) to Louisville for the championship round, contractors can grab their share of $850 in cash prizes, win a New Holland rodeo belt buckle and receive exclusive discounts on New Holland equipment at the 36 dealer events.

At the North American championship event, several activities are planned for the competitors – including attending the Super Boom Road Show banquet, where more than $50,000 in cash and prizes wil be awarded.

“New Holland skid steer operators are pros,” December said. “They do everything from material handling and landscaping to grading, plowing and digging. With our new 200 Series skid steers, they’ll be even more productive. The Super Boom Road Show gives them a chance to operate the newest New Holland equipment and put their skills to the test on a national stage.”

Events benefit local chapters of the American and Canadian Red Cross

The New Holland Super Boom Road Show events also provide fundraising and volunteer opportunities with local chapters of the American Red Cross and the Canadian Red Cross. At each event, a local Red Cross chapter representative will be on site to generate awareness of local Red Cross activities and recruit volunteers. Competitors who participate in the skid steer challenge events, and spectators, will be encouraged to make a donation to the local Red Cross chapter.

“New Holland is in a unique position to support the efforts of local Red Cross chapters across the United States and Canada,” December said. “The Super Boom Road Show gives New Holland dealers and customers an opportunity to make a difference in their communities – in addition to the causes they currently support.”

For complete information about the New Holland Super Boom Road Show, including online registration forms, a calendar of upcoming events and competitive rankings, go to www.newholland.com/roadshow.

Kobelco is an industry-leading excavator manufacturer, and its full range of excavators is found on major construction job sites and highway projects across North America. Accordingly, the “Your Competitive Edge” contest is presented by Better Roads magazine.

Kobelco’s “Your Competitive Edge” sweepstakes’ grand prize is a one-year lease on a new Kobelco 55SRx compact excavator, valued at $26,000; two tickets to the U2 360 Degree Tour concert on July 5, 2011, in Chicago; plus $2,000 spending cash for travel and hotel accommodations.

To participate in the “Your Competitive Edge” sweepstakes, enter online at www.kobelcoamerica.com/edge by May 31, 2011.

The winning entry will be selected in a random drawing on June 15, 2011.

No purchase is necessary. Information on the “Your Competitive Edge” sweepstakes is also at the Kobelco exhibit (Gold Lot, Booth 101) at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2011 in Las Vegas.

Young, CEO of Miller the Driller, will oversee the trade group’s work on behalf of the commercial construction industry.

“I’m humbled that this association has always treated me as a fellow contractor that happens to be a woman, instead of a woman that happens to be a contractor,” said Young. “Being the first is never about being alone, it took the time energy and encouragement of many people to get me here today.”

As president, Young will oversee the association’s efforts to advocate for measures to boost demand for construction activity by enacting pro-growth tax and trade policies and making much-needed investments to the nation’s aging infrastructure.

She will also work to overturn a new measure that forces governments at all levels to withhold 3 percent of the value of all major construction contracts beginning next year, something she notes will add to an unemployment rate for the industry that already is just more than 20 percent.

In addition to Young, the association also inaugurated on March 25 three other top leaders in the organization.

Joseph Jarboe, senior vice president of Clark Construction Group, Bethesda, Md., became the association’s senior vice president.

Paul Diederich, president of Industrial Builders, West Fargo, N.D., became the association’s vice president.

Howard Pebley, president of McAllen Construction, McAllen, Texas, became the association’s treasurer. The three contractors will support Young in leading the trade group during their year-long tenure in office.

New Holland Construction introduced its new C227 compact track loader at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2011 in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS—New Holland Construction introduced on March 24 during CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2011 three compact track loaders in the new 200 Series that have been redesigned from the ground up based on input from customers across North America.

The new machines feature “best-in-class forward dump height and reach,” according the manufacturer.

“These machines are built to tackle the toughest construction, landscaping and agricultural applications,” said Dave December, marketing manager at New Holland Construction.

The New Holland C232 and C238 compact track loaders feature the patented vertical lift Super Boom design, delivering the industry’s best forward dump height and reach, allowing it to reach higher and further to load material to the center of trucks.

The new self-leveling bucket feature on each model also allows attachments to maintain the preset location throughout the lift cycle.

For long load and carry operations, the optional Glide Ride feature on the

New Holland Construction's C232 compact track loader is part of its new 200 series. It has a rated operating capacity of 3,200 pounds

New Holland C232 and C238 compact track loaders is said to ensure a smooth ride over the roughest job site.

The C232 and C238 are rated at 76 and 84 hp. The C232 has a rated operating capacity of 3,200 pounds and a bucket breakout force of 8,585 pounds. The C238 has a rated operating capacity of 3,800 pounds and a bucket breakout force of 8,585 pounds.

The overall width is 79 inches (200 cm) on the C232 and C238 models equipped with the 18-inch tracks to make it easier to transport these machines on a standard trailer.

New Holland also introduced the C227 model, a radial lift machine. This design provides excellent digging performance for landscaping and construction applications. The C227 is rated at 70 hp ,with a rated operating capacity of 2,700 pounds  and a bucket breakout force of 7,145 pounds.

The dump angle on the new 200 Series compact track loaders has been increased to a best-in-class 53 degrees. This lets operators empty the bucket faster, resulting in faster cycle times and increased productivity.

The New Holland cab is equipped with many new features, including the following:

• A keyless start.
• An ergonomically designed joy stick with all controls.
• ISO and H-pattern switchable controls.
• Directional, full-body heating and air conditioning.
• A high-intensity lighting package.
• An ultra-thin screen protection system that provides superior work site visibility.
• Larger rear windows than the previous model.
• A heated air ride seat option.

The compact track loaders give operators a 360-degree view of the job site, and New Holland claims that the new rear window provides best-in-class rear visibility.

The 200 Series compact track loaders also feature large, 20- to 25.5-gallon fuel tanks, allowing operators to work as long as 10 hours before refueling.

Stability is an important part of being productive on the job site. Because the rigid undercarriage and machine weight is distributed over a large area, New Holland compact track loaders provide a stable ride over the roughest working surfaces. The frame sheds material away from the track, minimizing downtime. Undercarriage components include permanently lubed idlers and rollers, and a strong, steel-belted rubber track. With fewer moving parts than a suspension track system, maintenance costs are significantly reduced.

Daily maintenance on the 200 Series machines is quick and easy, December said, adding that no special tools are needed. “A quick daily service check only takes minutes, but will pay off during the entire life of the machine,” he said.

For complete access, the service technician only needs to remove two nuts and washers to tilt the cab forward. Another improvement is the redesigned hydraulic system, which extends the service interval to 2,000 hours and significantly reduces the amount of used and disposed oil.

New Holland also offers more than 50 compact track loader attachments — including augers, brooms, grapples, hammers and pallet forks — to handle construction, landscaping or agricultural jobs.

The new loaders also feature a hydraulic heavy-duty coupler for customers who frequently change attachments, according to December. –Tina Grady Barbaccia

New Holland Construction introduced its new L220 skid steer loader at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2011

LAS VEGAS—New Holland Construction introduced seven skid steer loaders in its new 200 Series, the result of five years customer research, design and engineering improvements.

Rolled out on March 23 during ConExpo-Con/Agg 2011, New Holland says it maintains the best-in-class forward dump height and reach with the Super Boom loader vertical lift design – and introduces breakthrough productivity improvements.

“New Holland skid steers are built around our customers’ needs. Our engineers used input from hundreds of customers to design the new 200 Series line-up,” said Dave December, marketing manager at New Holland Construction. “The New Holland skid steer loaders have been engineered from the ground up. No matter what your line of work, construction, landscaping or agriculture, you’ll work faster, smarter and more profitably with our new skid steers.”

The New Holland L218, L220, L223, L225 and L230 skid steer loaders feature the patented vertical lift Super Boom design, which enable the units to load material to the center of trucks. The 53-degree dump angle helps operators empty the bucket faster, which increases cycle times and productivity.

The new self-leveling bucket feature on the five models with the Super Boom design allows attachments to maintain the preset location throughout the lift cycle.

“Customers using pallet forks or other attachments to load materials into confined spaces will appreciate the extra work they’ll be able to complete with the self-leveling feature,” December said.

For long load and carry operations, the optional Glide Ride feature on the five New Holland skid steer loader models with the Super Boom design assists with a smoother ride over  rough job site.

These five models are rated from 57 hp to 84 hp. The L218 has an operating weight of 5,850 pounds and a bucket breakout force of 5,435 pounds. The L230 has an operating weight of 8,300 pounds and a bucket breakout force of 8,585 pounds.

Compact radial lift models

New Holland also introduced two compact models, the L213 and L215. Each features a radial lift design, providing excellent digging performance.

The full-size cab has premium features such as air ride seats, heat, air conditioning, Glide Ride, and self-leveling bucket and more. Plus, we beefed up our engines with 20 percent more horswpower than their L Series predecessors.”

A heavy-duty, 1,000 cold cranking amp battery is also standard.

The L213 is rated at 43 hp, with a rated operating capacity of 1,300 pounds (590 kg) and a bucket breakout force of 4,150 pounds. The L215 is rated at 49 hp, with a rated operating capacity of 1,500 pounds and a bucket breakout force of 4,150 pounds.

“A comfortable operator is a productive operator,” December said.

New Holland claims its cab is the “widest, most comfortable cab in the industry,” providing more head and foot room, and offering superior visibility in critical zones.

The New Holland cab is equipped with many new features, including the following:

• A keyless start.

• An ergonomically designed joy stick with all controls.

• Switchable ISO and H-pattern control options.

• Full-body heating and air conditioning.

• A high-intensity lighting package.

• An ultra-thin screen protection system that provides superior job site visibility.

• Large rear window.

• A heated air ride seat option

“New Holland skid steer loaders give operators a 360-degree view of the job site,” December said. “The new rear window provides best-in-class rear visibility. And the new lighting package delivers superior job site visibility.”

Stability is an important part of being productive on the job site. The increased wheelbase on the New Holland 200 Series skid steer loaders allows operators to lift and haul more material, increasing productivity.

New Holland 200 Series skid steer loaders also feature large, 16- to 25.5-gallon (60.5 to 96.5 L) fuel tanks, allowing operators to work 10 to 12 hours before refueling.

Daily maintenance on the 200 Series skid steer loaders is quick and easy, so operators can stay on schedule. Regular ground-level maintenance points are grouped together and service can be performed by opening the rear engine compartment and door.

For complete access to major components, the service technician only needs to remove two nuts and washers to tilt the cab forward. There is nothing to disconnect, and no special tools required. The new hydraulic system uses hydraulic oil, extending the service internal to 2,000 hours and significantly reducing the amount of disposed oil.

New Holland offers more than 50 skid steer loader attachments — including augers, brooms, dozer blades, grapples, hammers, pallet forks and rakes — to handle countless construction, landscaping or agricultural jobs. From material handling, digging, lifting and hammering, to trenching, planing or drilling, operators can count on New Holland attachments to boost their productivity. For customers who frequently change attachments, the new skid steer loaders feature a hydraulic heavy-duty coupler.”

The 200 Series skid steer loaders also include proportional auxiliary control as a standard feature on all models.

“Equipment operators can count on New Holland skid steers 24/7,” December said. “They’re bigger, badder and better.” —Tina Grady Barbaccia

Persson described “substantial improvements” in the company’s fortunes,  which in 2010 saw sales increase by 51 percent, outperforming the general market, he said, which increased by 31%. This sales jump “was accompanied by high profitability, a record number of machines sold and a strengthening order book,” he said.

“We are outperforming the improving market conditions by offering a young fleet of innovative products tailored to meet the needs of specific customer groups, combined with a strong and loyal distribution network and a substantial investment program,” he said.

At the show, Volvo unveiled engines meeting the new Tier 4 Interim (in the US) and Stage IIIB (in Europe) emissions legislation and new products including new generation excavators, wheel loaders, articulated haulers, backhoe loaders, motor graders, skid-steer and compact tracked loaders – and the Red Dot award winning L220G wheel loader. The international Red Dot Product Design Awards honors outstanding industrial design and the design team.

Models from the new F-Series articulated hauler range, new B-Series backhoe loaders, D-Series excavators and B-Series motor graders, as well as several new generation machines from the road machinery range were presented.

 For road builders the company showed the new G946B motor grader, the SD116D soil compactor and the MT2000 milling machine. In the Oil and Gas sector, along with the PL3005 pipe layer, an EC480D excavator, a BL70 backhoe loader, an ECR48C excavator and a L90 wheel loader were on display. In the Quarry and Aggregate zone Volvo’s largest wheel loader, the L350, and its largest articulated hauler – the A40F – fitted with and innovative Full Suspension system were presented.

The lack of an obvious funding source, given the refusal of politicians to raise the gas tax, will mean reauthorization will pass in 2013. While the Administration and the chairman of the House Transport and Infrastructure Committee John Mica (R-Fla) have acknowledged the funding problem they have said they believe a bill will be passed by fall. But Sullivan says the funding problem will be too high a hurdle to overcome.

Sullivan also says when a bill does pass it will be at a funded at a rate 20 percent higher than SAFETEA-LU.

“That is the lowest number I could come up with,” he said, “and I went with that because with that increase you would be at the same level you were at in the beginning of a six year bill in real dollars. Inflation will wreak havoc over [the] six years [of the bill] and at the end of it we could be spending less in real dollars than we did this year.”

Sullivan says he expects the economy to essentially remain flat, lying in near the bottom of the recession trough, through 2012. But he expects about 1.5 million jobs to be created this year and the economy to grow at a 2.7 percent rate. Job creation, he said, is the single biggest key to recovery.