The excavator remains the key earthmoving tool, Mike Woof reports. The versatile hydraulic excavator has been at the heart of most earthmoving projects around the world for many years, a dominance that looks set to remain. Because of the importance to the construction sector of the excavator, manufacturers are keen to upgrade and improve their competing machines on an almost continuous basis. New technology proliferates in hydraulic excavators while firms are also focussing on increasing the range of tasks
Volvo CE is working on an innovative machine communications technology system. This development will help with the operation of autonomous machines, allowing remote control and operation even when equipment is in use as much as 400m underground. The aim of the development project is to boost safety, productivity and efficiency.
The firm is using 5G communications technology in trials being carried out in partnership with communications specialist Telia. The trials are being run at a test facility in Eskils
The US infrastructure network requires urgent attention - * T Peter Ruane. America's transportation infrastructure was once the "shining light on top of the hill." Major investments in a national highway, bridge, transit, airport, port and waterway system during the 20th century paid great dividends. The free and efficient flow of goods and people across the 50 states led to unparalleled economic expansion. The mobility and prosperity resulting from an interconnected infrastructure was a model for the world
Sharply reduced global demand for construction equipment in the final three months of last year led to Volvo Construction Equipment’s (CE) full 2012 year sales growing by less than 1%, compared to sales in 2011. Volvo CE sales reached US$10.037 billion (SEK 63,558mn) in 2012, compared to $10.028 billion (SEK 63,500mn) the previous year. Operating income was down to $911.7mn (SEK 5,773mn), from $1.075 billion (SEK 6,812mn) in 2011, operating margin was 9.1% in 2012, down from 10.7% 12 months earlier, and the
