Category Archives: Construction

How to Refurbish Earth Moving Heavy Equipment

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

Just like your car, sometimes heavy equipment suffer from severe damage. At that time, a professional repairing technician is needed. Snafued and broken glass can put the heavy equipment operators at danger and sluggish down their performance. Correct and quick mending of heavy construction equipment help the machinist to get back in work. The owner of the heavy equipment should always give top priority to the safety of the driver and the cargo.

The refurbishment techniques of the earth moving equipment comprises of simple maintenance to major tows. It’s a fact that repairing earth moving mechanisms is a challenging and hazardous task for the technicians therefore in every manual; they are suggested to take safety measures. Some of the leading earth moving apparatuses in today’s souk are crawler loaders, wheel loaders, mining excavator, articulated dump trucks, duty cycle crawler cranes etc. All these equipment have definite functions. It is not possible for any mining or construction company to use a particular earth moving equipment for all types of soil. The selection of the mechanism entirely depends upon the purpose of the purchaser. When the window mirror of the earth moving apparatus gets damage, the expert heavy equipment repairing machinists change the glass appropriately.

Strides to Repair Earth Moving Equipment

  • The heavy equipment refurbishing technicians should first detect the problem. Then they must go through the operating procedure page of the instruction booklet. If the problem still continues, the machinists must examine the maintenance report of the equipment.
  • Many a time, the technicians have experienced that the lube joint is loose. In that case tighten the joint by the suitable screw driver. They should also check the condition of the oil in the engine and the spark plugs are removed, cleaned and replaced or not.
  • If the technicians observe that the problem still remains, they should read the troubleshooting instructions mentioned in the manual.
  • At this circumstance, if you are a novice mending technician and are unable to detect the actual problem, it is advisable to call a senior experienced mechanic. The experience of the skilled technician works here because he/she knows the next step to identify the problem.
  • The instruction guideline of overhauling earth moving mechanism is so lengthy that it is impossible for the beginner to read it completely at a time. Hence, it is sensible to always call an experienced technician if the damage is severe.
  • The hefty apparatus operators can easily locate the address of the technicians from the equipment dealers, rental firms and the manufacturers.
  • The earth moving equipment refurbishing mechanics should always carry their tool kit with them. Their gizmo kit comprises of power jacks, lathes, pneumatic wrenches etc.
  • The mechanics should acquire profound knowledge about disassembling and assembling of the machine parts.

The heavy equipment repair mechanics must do the training course of heavy equipment operation from a certified diesel mechanical engineering institution. This training program gives them an in-depth knowledge about the heavy equipment parts. The voluntary certificate of the weighty paraphernalia operation helps the mechanics to get a prosperous job.

Related articles across the web

Top 10 Models Wheel Tractor Scraper

Wheel tractor scraper is a construction machine which is very large in size and finds its application in earthmoving, mining and construction industry. Over the years it has become very important heavy equipment due to increase in construction and mining projects. Here are top 10 models of Wheel Tractor Scraper.

627G-627G is a unique model of wheel tractor scraper has engines that are electronically operated and automatic transmission that are combined electronically to supply highest power facility. Its exceptional speed and capability to carry great weight are some of its unique features. It is also very durable and since it is controlled by electronic means it lends it greater problem-solving abilities.

621H-In the model of 621H we find innovation at its best. It has a superior wheel tractor scraper in terms of productivity. It also ensures comfort to the users. They are controlled electronically.

651E-This model is fuel-efficient as it has eight-speed power conduction. It has an accumulator minimises road accidents and also prevents loping despite operating at high speed in the roads. It is long lasting and has low operating costs if maintained properly.

637G-This model is a great innovation as it has many unique features such as articulated routing and steering. It has clear windows with a comfortable cabin inside the vehicle. It is controlled by an ejector which helps it moving up and down.

657G-This is another model of wheel tractor Scraper which has great travelling speed and ability to put load quickly. It is extremely durable and fuel-efficient. It also has the potentiality to high efficiency at low cost.

623H-623H gives greater productivity to the operators due to better-quality wheel tractor. It is also user friendly and comfortable to the users. It does not operate manually and needs to be controlled electronically. The synchronisation done on the tractor engine helps it to operate smoothly and for longer duration. Its structure has a non-metallic hood, better hydraulics and cushion hitch

 627H-Another innovative model of wheel tractor scraper which is automatic and is extremely durable. It has a robust and good quality structural design which increases its reliability. It is controlled by a Sequence Assist which makes its use less complicated. The use of implements are reduced by the use of control lever which uses cylinders that can sense position and assimilating computer software which assists  the operator to perform task like loading and dumping .

631G– This model is especially manufactured to operate at the point of combustion to maximise the performance of the engine and to lessen exhaust emissions. It comprises of power shift transmissions and torque converter which contributes to its efficiency and reliability.

CAT 611-It is a very fuel-efficient model of wheel tractor scraper. It is comfortable, long lasting and gives higher productivity. It has a flexible mounted engine to reduce the effects of sound and vibration. All the tools are warranted against breakage. Other features of this model are great speed, ability to take loads, consistency in terms of performance and productivity and easy maintenance.

637G-The 637G model is a machine marvel which operates to give the users productivity, efficiency, durability and high speed. It has a robust structure with power shift transmissions and torque convertor.

So these are the top 10 models of Wheel Tractor Scraper. All of them are top class equipments and the operators can use them according to their needs.

Related articles across the web

Push Your Profit Margin Higher- Calculate the Life Cycle Cost Of Heavy Construction Equipment

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

The capital comprises of a large part of any business. It is not really possible to go on about a business without investing a certain amount of money. The importance of the capital becomes all the more prominent when it is the construction industry in question. Talking of the construction industry one cannot deny the fact that a huge amount of the capital required goes into the purchase and maintenance of heavy construction equipment.

Life Cycle Cost Of Construction Equipment- What Does It Mean?

When the heavy construction equipment forms such an important part of the entire construction industry, it is quite obvious that a lot of thought must go into the purchase of these equipment. The heads of the construction company undergo a lot of consideration when purchasing these equipment and the life cycle cost evaluation of heavy construction equipment forms a major part of these considerations.

So, what exactly is meant by life cycle cost calculation? Well, life cycle cost of construction equipment refers to the total cost that is incurred on particular heavy construction equipment, right from its inception, maintenance to its disposal. In other words it is nothing but the cost estimate of its entire life cycle. The next question that must strike you is why at all would a construction organization need to evaluate construction equipment life cycle cost? The answer to this question is very simple- this evaluation allows the companies to come up with the most cost effective measures of seeing construction equipment through their entire life cycle.

Evaluating the Life Cycle Cost of Your Heavy Construction Equipment

Evaluation of construction equipment life cycle cost has proved to be quite influential on a number of important aspects of a particular construction company, the budget, for instance. The entire calculation process has been divided into five steps- assessment of the cost of acquisition, establishing the depreciation rate, taking fixed costs into account, taking into account the cost of operating the equipment and finally adding up the whole thing. While calculation of the cost of acquisition includes all the associated factors, such as the variables and incentives, the depreciation rate is calculated by means of the straight-line method.

The evaluation of the life cycle cost of the heavy construction depends largely on the mode by which it is acquired. It is a widely known fact that construction equipment may be acquired by a construction company in two different ways- by leasing it or purchasing it. Though purchasing heavy equipment may mean quite a huge investment for a construction company, there remains the fact that you are at an advantageous position with the machine at your disposal. Opting for leased heavy equipment, on the other hand, effectively eliminates the factor of high investment issues. Companies are also spared the need to go through extensive maintenance procedures, thereby, earning greater profit. All the above factors, therefore, need to be considered whenever a company goes for the life cycle cost calculation of heavy equipment.

Related articles across the web

Learning The Tricks Of The Trade Will Help You To Make Money In The Construction Industry

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

You are in whatever business or industry, the first thing that you need to do is learn the work well. You can’t expect yourself to perform or to outperform before having learned the tricks of the trade. For instance, we take up the profession of a doctor. A guy has to study for years in medicine and then invest another good number of years in practicing. Only after that, he can claim himself to be a good doctor. Or let’s put it in this way that after investing so much of time learning his profession, he can become good in his work and that good work of his will be seen by others which will then make him a good doctor. This was just an example of a noble profession, now if we consider a business; it is no different from the first example.

Construction business is a huge business and it may take one his entire lifetime to know about everything, however not completely. It is important to know how to work things out and also how things work in this industry. If you start from the basics of it and then develop your knowledge, you will not miss anything but if you skip the basics and feel that they are not important, you might not understand things as they are all so interconnected with the basics.

We would be discussing few things that are instrumental to grow as a person in this industry.

Develop the curiosity to learn:-  Let’s start this by saying “Keep your eyes and ears open all the time”. You get to learn a lot of things if you simply keep your basic senses to see and to hear wide open. You will come across people who talk about how to complete a particular project or what kind of heavy equipment is needed to get the work done. They may talk about ideas which you have never heard of or felt that can even work in such a situation. You may even want to discuss things with them and show that you are curious enough to know things which will allow them to let you accompany them in critical assignments. Once you become a part of any critical assignment, you will come across multiple chances of developing your knowledge and also learning to deal with different kind of situations.

Take initiatives at different levels:-  This is perhaps the most important characteristic one must possess. Many people simply do their work and leave. They are never in hunt of any opportunities which sort of rusts their capabilities. Therefore, it is important that you take up initiatives to do things which others may find to be difficult or time consuming. Taking initiatives not only prove that you are not afraid of taking additional responsibilities but also display your ability to learn new things pertaining to your domain.

Learning these little things with time will eventually help you to know much of the things which are absent in others and will make you a better employee or a businessman than the rest.

Related articles across the web

Buy the best pickup trucks for your construction site

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

The construction contractors are very professional, as they like to obtain everything perfect for their company. There are many things that a contractor needs to follow to establish their company. It is very important to run a construction company successfully because if you can manage to do so then you can definitely earn huge profit from this work.  Well, to run a construction business successfully it is very important to purchase heavy equipment. Without proper heavy equipment you cannot maintain this business. Most important equipment for construction site is the pickup trucks. Well, if you are searching for a versatile as well as reliable vehicle that you can use in any occasion then you should go with the pickup trucks. It is the best equipment for your business.

You can use this vehicle in your personal or business purpose and as it is very strong equipment so, you can run it in rural areas and also in cities. There are different types of pickup trucks available in the stores. You will get different models of this equipment and each comes with different features. These different types of features actually make them perfect and well suited for different types of jobs. The pickup trucks are very useful as they can perform any kind of heavy works. But before you start to use this vehicle it is very important to know its proper usages.
When you are planning to buy pickup trucks then you should try to understand that which type of truck will be suitable for your work.   There are many new pickup trucks that are designed perfectly. You need to choose the right truck that can help you in your work and give you many advantages. There are models of two or four doors that is attached with bed and cab sizes. You can buy this vehicle from the reputed firm who can ensure highest safety facility. It is very important to maintain the safety of the vehicle because if anything wrong happens then you have to face it. So always try to maintain the safety and security properly of this vehicle.

Well, you can use this vehicle to move heavy items that you cannot move by your arms. So, it is very important that you should buy a good and reliable pickup truck that helps you to move the extra dirt and heavy loads from one place to other. With the help of this truck you can also do many other works in your construction site. So, the contractors always try to buy this vehicle.

You shouldn’t buy it from any place. Give your 100% attention and try to find out the best firm. You will get detail information on this equipment on internet. So, search the internet properly and try to find out the reputed site that offers this vehicle at cheap price.

Related articles across the web

Simple steps to boost Construction Equipment Safety

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

In industrial automation maintaining the safety of the construction equipment is one of the most crucial factors. Safety is the integral part of machine functionality. Safety systems standards include stopping and stand still, speed of the machine and the direction in which the machine rotates.

Principles to be followed by machine manufacturers:-

  • Construction equipment should be constructed or designed in such a way so as to ensure minimum hazards.
  • Take necessary precautions against accidents that cannot be controlled.
  • Inform the users of the risk that can happen despite all possible precautions being taken.

Tips that are mentioned in the Machinery Directive for functional safety

  • Risk reduction through assessment:-It consists of two parts- Risk analysis and Risk reduction.
  • Determining functionality and safety performance steps to either wipe out the risk or to reduce it to a minimum level.
  • Implementing functional safety by designing the equipment safety system functions.
  • Verifying whether functional safety meet the demarcated requirements.
  • Validating functional safety to ensure the system function is successful in minimizing the risks.
  • Documenting functional safety through user documentation.

 

What are the simple steps to boost construction equipment safety?

  • Establishing systematic procedures for identification, assessment and cleaning the equipment after its use.
  • Clear the work area away of any debris, stone chips and trip hazards.
  • Before kick the equipment on, check for loose bolts, nuts and screws.
  • If the machine does not sound properly then switch off the machine and try to find out what is wrong with it.

 

  • Sometimes some dirt particles get inside the machine bearing of the equipment which is generally caused by use of compressed air to clean the machines.
  • Hiring and giving proper training to the technical team to control the storage of the hazardous substances.
  • Equipment idle reduction and control can minimize the amount of diesel used and thus can prolong the life of the equipment.

 

Some industrial companies make use of the custom software to ensure continuity in the implementation of the preventive maintenance procedures. The only administrative expense to detect the consistency in the maintenance program is the labor time to get a record of maintenance requirements.

An effective program to manage the safety of the construction equipment is very essential. To increase equipment efficiency and life of the engine, periodic replacement of fuel and water filter is necessary. One should replace the battery before it fails. Monitoring fuel consumption and oil consumption help to detect problems. Measuring the viscosity of the oil help to find out the chemical changes that the oil undergoes due to its thermal degradation. And finally the person should apply appropriate lubricant and regularly to boost the construction equipment safety.

Related articles across the web

Economic scenario affecting heavy equipment and construction industry

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

Every big and small industry is co-related to the economic situation in a country. If the economic situation in a country is favorable for the businesses to flourish, it gives a good time for the people of that country to earn good money. However, if the economic condition is in turmoil then every industry takes a beating. Moreover, if it is the construction industry, it perhaps takes the maximum beating and also industries associated with it. The current scenario is such that market pundits see a modest growth rate in the construction segment. Nothing major can be predicted for the time being. It is better than being slow. However, few heavy equipment manufacturing companies have a different perspective about the current economic scenario. They do not see the market to be modest and feel that it will take more time for the market to improve in order to become modest. This means that the situation is far from being called modest. This shows that there are mixed signals coming from all areas of the heavy equipment manufacturing segment. They are also worried about the overall global situation if not much worried about what is happening inside the country. They ideally look to export their products outside the country and if the overall economy is at its worse, then it becomes very difficult for them to sell their machines worldwide.

Caterpillar being one of the strongest companies in the US has estimated that its total sale in 2014 will be around 55 billion dollars which is somewhat similar to the sales in the previous year. This shows that the heavy equipment market worldwide is indeed appalling and will take time to recover. Industry experts believe that the situation in the year 2015 will be somewhat better but will not show any dramatic upward trend. This means that the industry has to struggle hard for few more years after which it can expect to see a rosy outlook. They see immense opportunities for investment in infrastructure sector in countries like United States, Turkey and India. In addition to this, they also want the government to implement growth oriented policies that could be beneficial to all.

One of the major reasons of slow economic recovery in the global arena is the political conflict and instability. Due to this instability, no proper decisions are getting implemented and investors cannot set up the trust that it has to in order to invest their money. Countries in Africa and in the Middle East are the worst affected countries and they have to do a lot to improve things. Europe may have a different story to tell but it may not be far different. They do not see things to be so negative. However, they also do not see any signs of rapid industrial growth happening anytime soon. A report from CECE reveals that heavy machinery sales in the first half of 2014 increased by 10.24% compared to the first half of 2013. However, the second half was disappointing.

Hire Skid-steer Loader for Appending Labor-saving Gears

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

Trade owners, general outworkers and project executives in the construction industry are well aware of the pricey heavy equipment. Therefore they always prefer to employ the heavy equipment on rental basis. Heavy equipment rental companies show all the important documents related to lease to the business possessors so that the deal should be agreed in proper legal manner. Skid-steer loader is engine-powered heavy equipment that is available with elevate arms. This apparatus is used to fasten the labour-saving tools. Some of the renowned manufacturers of this machine are Bobcat, Terex, and Caterpillar etc. It is sensible for the contractors to hire skid steer equipment of these branded companies.
Pertinence of Skid-steer Loader
Skid-steer loader is also recognised as skid loader or skid steer that is generally attainable in four-wheel vehicle. The wheels are automatically locked and have no independent routing device. The loader can move in different motions like slewing, dragging with the help of the paired wheels. Sometimes the loaders are equipped with tracks instead of wheels and at that time the vehicles are known as compact track loader. This loader has the capacity of performing like a backhoe, pallet fork, hydraulic breakers, and auger and so on. Some of its applications are as ensues:
• The skid-steer loaders can dig the hole from the inside the earth just like an excavator.
• It initially burrows the ramp leading to the circumference of the required quarry.
• Then the loader utilises the ramp to take out the material out from the crater.
• It also assists in remodelling the ramp to keep it powerful and longer as the mining process gets deeper.
• Skid loader is used for setting up the parks.
• It is also employed in cleaning stalls in a store.
Benefits of Renting Skid-steer Loader
• Heavy equipment rental firms proffer low-hour and trustworthy skid loaders to the construction companies that are sustained in authoritarian yardsticks. It’s a fact that the rental companies are providing the second-hand heavy equipment to the business owners but these are obtainable in good conditions.
• The heavy apparatus leasing firms cater to the modern technology equipment to the business owners. The construction contractors want to hire the upgraded version of skid-steer loader therefore these rental companies are successful in satisfying them.
• For renting the skid-steer loader, the business owners should go through the standards of Emissions Compliance (EPA). EPA granted machines can be used without any stress.
• Construction equipment rental companies help the contractors to accomplish their project proficiently. Upgraded skid loaders provided by the reputed rental companies assist the contractors to attach the toil-cutback tools flawlessly.
• The construction companies are not required to take the headache of maintenance cost when they hire skid-steer loader from the leasing firms. It is the duty of the hiring service providers to examine the condition of the machine periodically.
Some of the renowned rental companies that offer skid-steer loader are Caterpillar, Ahern Rentals, Power Equipment Company. Several types of skid steers are propounded with additional facilities to grab the attention of a large number of construction industry owners.

Best practice of lubrication procedure

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

As industries are growing at a rapid rate, plant managers need to develop their lubrication procedures. Best practices of lubrication procedure can boost up equipment reliability, reduce energy consumption and carbon-dioxide emissions and optimize maintenance. In order to increase productivity, top-notch lubrication methods, perfect staff training and high quality lubricants are essential.

Three stages of lubrication strategy

  • Boundary lubrication: – In boundary lubrication, an equipment faces the friction most as it was in its “start –up” phase. During start up, speed is relatively low and the load is high. The lubricant cushion is here only a thin film.
  • Mixed lubrication: – When the speed increases, the lubricant cushion builds and draw more lubricants in between the metals. Though the friction is reduced in mixed lubrication, but it can’t stop metal–to-metal friction at full.
  • Hydrodynamic lubrication: – Continuously increasing speed bring lubrication to its final stage known as “Hydrodynamic Lubrication”. Here friction is reduced to the minimum and the surfaces are properly coated with lubricant to avoid metal-to metal friction.

Tips to accomplish lubrication goals

  • Choosing the right tool for lubrication process is an important part. Pump and system maintenance experts gain an insight into the condition of the lubricant of the machinery with the help of ultrasound technology. Thus the team able to put right amount of lubricant at the correct time at correct place.
  • Identification is another step in which a labelling system is involved. It is used because in large plants various lubricants are applied. The labelling helps to avoid errors of mixing lubes (as lubricants are composed of chemical compositions and hence incompatible) especially in food industry.
  • One of the main reasons of equipment’s early failure is the oil contamination. So, in order to carry out the lubricant safely and clean, one should use fully sealed container and contamination – free containers which means containers that will not generate contaminants.
  • Dispensing equipment should be efficient and user friendly. The containers should be well identified to avoid any kind of mistakes.
  • It is advisable to colour code the grease guns to make sure right lube is used for right application.
  • Controlling the oil contamination in the equipment also plays a vital role. Online and offline filtering system help to clean the oil.
  • Before applying oil in the lubrication strategy, one should undergo a chemical analysis of the oil.
  • As lubricant has the power to pollute the environment, most maintenance strategies work hard to prevent such accidents.
  • The basic training of lubrication personnel should be encouraged to carry on an effective lubrication procedure.

The customers should make their lubrication strategy not under any pressure and their decision to buy lubricant should not falsely guide by the purchasing department. Most of the customers don’t realize that their equipment stop working not due to any mechanical failure, but due to lack of or improper lubrication procedure. There are OEMs which acts as a guideline to choose the right lubricant. Many customers report leakage as a problem. This leakage increases the consumption of lubricant by upto 25% which is not negligible. Some companies specially designed dyes to find out where such leakage is taking place which is really an effective tool to optimize lubrication strategy.

 

 

Keep an Open Mind to Be Ahead In the Race in the Construction Industry

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

Change- that is the only thing that has, that is and that will always be permanent. Whether it is the healthcare industry, education industry, politics or construction, change can be said to be a common characteristic for all. And this change makes it important for people to be on the constant lookout for keeping them updated on the latest events of a particular industry. If you are a professional of the construction industry, keeping yourself updated on the various aspects of the industry is quite important for your business.

Continuing To Learn- The Benefits

Being constantly on the lookout for the latest happenings in the construction industry is beneficial. If you are involved in the construction industry, it is best if you keep a lookout for the latest trends and developments. Here is taking a look at the benefits that being updated has.

  • Constant studying the trends of the construction industry will give you an idea of the way your competitors approach the entire business. And this definitely contributes significantly to you becoming a successful construction big shot.
  • By keeping the window of knowledge of open in the construction arena, you will also be aware of the various rules, regulations and amendments to the rules of the arena. This means that you will always stay on the legal side of things.
  • Continuing the education whilst you are in the construction arena also lets you gain knowledge on the various technological developments on the block. An application of these technologies to your construction business can definitely prove to be fruitful.
  • Constantly remaining updated also enhances your decision making power. You will be able to take better decisions about your construction organisation if you keep your mind open and continue to build on the recent developments going on in the area.

It can, therefore be concluded that keeping an open mind in the construction area works wonders on your business. Not only will you be able to handle the construction projects more efficiently, you can also be sure of raise in the status quo of your company.

Gaining the Knowledge- The Possible Sources

All being said and done, people might wonder as to where will they get information of the changes taking place in the industry.

  • The World Wide Web can be said to be a virtual trove of information.  All the information that you seek can be availed from the various blogs, updates posted on the social networking sites, online construction journals, construction forums and the like.
  • You could also try gathering information from your mentor, the construction union, various seminars and conferences and the like.

Success in the construction industry is directly proportional to your knowledge of the area. It goes without saying that staying updated on this fore is quite crucial for your construction business. Keeping an open mind, therefore, can be said to be one of the mantras to succeed in the industry.