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A key launch for Komatsu comes in the shape of its new Dash 11 series excavators, with the PC240LC-11 and PC490LC-11 both making their debut at Conexpo 2014. The PC240 weighs from 24.7-25tonnes depending on specification, with power from a 132kW diesel, while the PC490 weighs from 47.9-50tonnes depending on specification and is driven by a 268kW diesel.

Case Construction Equipment has used Conexpo 2014 to unveil its new Tier 4 Interim DV209 and DV210 high frequency asphalt compactors, both designed to improve fuel efficiency by up to 10% compared with previous models. The two new compactors add to the CNH brand’s range of high frequency double-drum models, and are said to give road builders more control and versatility to match the thickness and required density of each layer.

Caterpillar’s new 390F hydraulic excavator uses a C18 Cat ACERT engine to meet the tough new Tier 4/Stage IV emissions regulations. The 92tonne 390F burns 7% less fuel at the same time as delivering more productivity than its 390D predecessor. Fuel-saving features include standard or economy power modes, to allow the operator to match operating speed to application.

JCB chief executive Graeme Macdonald says the UK manufacturer’s 140% sales rise in North America since 2010 has been a “great comeback story”. “North America has been on a rollercoaster ride,” Macdonald said during JCB’s Conexpo 2014 press conference in Las Vegas this week.

Hyundai has created its first amphibious excavator, designed for operators looking for an excavating solution when working in wetlands, swamps and marshes, Using the R220LC-9A 22tonne excavator as the starting point, the firm removed its traditional undercarriage and fitted the excavator with hydraulically extending pontoons.

GOMACO says that a series of improvements to its Commander III slipform paver will help increase the machine’s versatility and overall performance. The paver will be on the market in the third quarter of this year and the three-track machine’s key improvements include a new G+ control system and a new low emission, Tier 4 compliant engine.

Among new crushing and screening products showcased by Telsmith at Conexpo 2014 this week, a new 820 tracked screening plant was taking centre stage offering users high throughput volumes. The plant includes an 8203 Telsmith TL screen; 1,372mm feed conveyor, an 1,829mm under screen conveyor, all combined to process up to 907tonnes/hour.

Astec Industries, which is showcasing 45 pieces of equipment at this week’s Conexpo 2014, most of it new or upgraded, has outlined its plans for the future with president and CEO Ben Brock stressing that the group is going on a major export drive.

World demand for asphalt will grow by 3.6% annually until 2017, according to Cleveland market research company The Freedonia Group. This follows a decline in demand between 2007 and 2012 in North America and Western Europe, during the global economic crisis. “Gains will be driven by especially strong growth in consumption in China and other developing countries as they work to improve their transportation infrastructures,” said Freedonia analyst Mariel Behnke.