construction machinery me june 2014

ISSUE 32

jUnE 2014

PUBLICATION LICENSED BY IMPZ

WHEEL TO WHEEL The year’s biggest loader launches

PRESSING MATTERS Keeping highways compact

AFRICAN ADVENTURE SDLG’s MENA progess reveal

Zahid and Cat SpeCial look

THE SUPER DEALERKSA’s power partners

pluS: RaW poWeR * neWS & VieWS * RootS GRoup * BaCkhoe puRChaSinG * and MuCh MoRe

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

HimoinsaAD_CMME_DPS_490x310mm_AW_HR.pdf 1 2/18/2014 4:46:26 PM

Contents

04 Editorial Does Dubai really want to reclaim its position as the world’s

premier buyer and renter of cranes?

06 NEws What’s happening across the region in construction machinery?

16 hEavy hittErs Stian Overdahl talks to Caterpillar and Zahid about Cat’s new

Saudi Spec machine.

20 ENGiNE oF ChaNGE GCIC’s JV partners LiuGong and Cummins on what their Dubai

training centre means for customers.

24 sitE visit: thE wavE, oMaN Why the Kempinski at The Wave in Muscat is one of the region’s

most challenging hotel projects.

28 sdlG sPECial rEPort SDLG’s business manager for the Middle East, Jan-Erik

Eriksson, talks about its progress in the Middle East and Africa.

1048

ISSUE 32

JUNE 2014

page 28 RIDING

THE WAVE “There’s quite a lot of water

actually, because you’re almost trying to dewater the sea!”

Raw power

26

20 52

Page 38 NEW RELEASE ROUND UP What’s hot in new machinery this month? 5 TOP TEN: GUIDE TO BUYING A BACKHOE CMME tries to help you make that backhoe purchasing decision. Page 48 PRODUCT OVERVIEW: WHEEL LOADER CMME looks the last year of wheel loader releases. Page 52 SPREADING OUT In the second part of Stian Overdahl’s review of the region’s

road construction sector, Atlas Copco’s head of tech talks about raising road laying standards. Page 51 THE LAST WORD The Roots Group.

08

Contents

04 Editorial Does Dubai really want to reclaim its position as the world’s

premier buyer and renter of cranes?

06 NEws What’s happening across the region in construction machinery?

16 hEavy hittErs Stian Overdahl talks to Caterpillar and Zahid about Cat’s new

Saudi Spec machine.

20 ENGiNE oF ChaNGE GCIC’s JV partners LiuGong and Cummins on what their Dubai

training centre means for customers.

24 sitE visit: thE wavE, oMaN Why the Kempinski at The Wave in Muscat is one of the region’s

most challenging hotel projects.

28 sdlG sPECial rEPort SDLG’s business manager for the Middle East, Jan-Erik

Eriksson, talks about its progress in the Middle East and Africa.

1048

ISSUE 32

JUNE 2014

page 28 RIDING

THE WAVE “There’s quite a lot of water

actually, because you’re almost trying to dewater the sea!”

Raw power

26

20 52

Page 38 NEW RELEASE ROUND UP What’s hot in new machinery this month? Page 45 TOP TEN: GUIDE TO BUYING A BACKHOE CMME tries to help you make that backhoe purchasing decision. Page 48 PRODUCT OVERVIEW: WHEEL LOADER CMME looks the last year of wheel loader releases. 2 SPREADING OUT In the second part of Stian Overdahl’s review of the region’s

road construction sector, Atlas Copco’s head of tech talks about raising road laying standards. Page 51 THE LAST WORD The Roots Group.

08

FASTER, FUEL EFFICIENTF SERIES

CASE LOADERS DRIVE PRODUCTIVITYNew generation of axles, new chassis, new Hydraulic hoses lay out, Larger

buckets and special tires, designed for hostile environments, Waste & Scrap handling BioGas, Compost and Agricultural applications

PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITYFour mode power control and new generation five-speed

transmission result in faster cycle times andincreased productivity

10% FUEL ECONOMYModels 721F, 821F

and 921F deliver 10% fuel saving,withreduced exhaust emissions

www.casece.com

Country Dealer Contact Number Web PageBahrain Abdulla Ahmed Nass & Sons +973 1 770 31 23 www.nassgroup.comUAE Al Shirawi Enterprises +971 4 371 85 85 www.alshirawienterprises.comKuwait Instant Access Co +965 2 225 99 72 www.instantaccess-co.comOman International Heavy Equipment L.L.C. +968 2 459 12 99 www.ihe-oman.comQatar Nasser Bin Khaled & Sons Co +974 4 458 01 38 www.nbks.comKSA Roots Group Arabia +966 2 699 66 28 www.arabian-roots.comLebanon Someco +96 1 125 36 00 www.somecointernational.comJordan The Commercial & Industrial Co (C.I.C) +96 2 550 62 60 www.cic.com.joEgypt Unimar Egypt +202 3 346 51 80 www.unimaregypt.com

Editor’s Letter

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST4

ISSUE 32

jUnE 2014

PUBLICATION LICENSED BY IMPZ

WHEEL TO WHEEL The year’s biggest loader launches

PRESSING MATTERS Keeping highways compact

AFRICAN ADVENTURE SDLG MENA progess reveal

Zahid and Cat SpeCial look

THE SUPER DEALERKSA’s power partners

pluS: RaW poWeR * neWS & VieWS * RootS GRoup * BaCkhoe puRChaSinG * and MuCh MoRe

Stephen White, Group Editor, CMME

GROUP

GROUP CHAIRMAN AND FOUNDER

DOMINIC DE SOUSA

GROUP CEO NADEEM HOOD

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PUBLISHING DIRECTOR RAZ [email protected]+971 4 375 5471

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while the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors therein.

NOW ONLINE You can now catchthe online edition every month at: www.constructionmachineryme.com

AVOIDING MISTAKES

I started to get the jitters this month when I read the report by research house Chesterton that said that Dubai could

once again reclaim its crown as the crane capital of the world. At first I broke out in a sweat, then I started seeing pink dots in front of my eyes and then came the full blind and utter panic.

Considering my job is to cover exciting developments in the market, you would think I would be singing from the rafters at any news that suggests there will be good times and plenty of cranes to climb in the years ahead.

I was instead struck by a crippling fear that the property bubble that no-one is talking about but quite a few are feeling in their cheque plans for the landlord was about to whitewash all that we have learned over the past half-decade.

We have seen a great deal of claims inside the pages of Construction Machninery ME over the past few years by distributors and contractors saying that they will not repeat the mistakes of their past should another boom hit the construction market in the UAE.

Gone are the days where we would buy beyond our means in the hope of securing a contract that may never come, we have been told on countless occasions.

And yet the property boom – and other large projects such as the Dubai Canal, Mamzar, JBR Walk, Mohammed bin Rashid City and others - that is occurring in the UAE on the back of the EXPO 2020 does present a conundrum for the industry. Should it stick or should it twist?

I also worry about some of the developers themselves. A lot of the projects that are currently underway remain restarts or in the case of Palm Deira scaling backs of existing plans.

I also worry about some of the developers themselves. A lot of the projects that are currently underway remain restarts or in the case of Palm Deira scaling backs of existing plans. I saw one UK-based developer last month celebrate a record quarter on the back of its work in Dubai and yet it has projects elsewhere in the UAE that are entirely frozen – despite its claims to the contrary.

If the money is flowing that strongly in the market then why would a developer not be able to pay for its permits it needs with the local authority?

Right now, the sensible answer would be to stick to your guns. You’ve managed to guide your company through one of the hardest economic periods in modern history and survive. Hold back on taking bold chances that may ultimately not come to anything.

September 2011

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 7CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 7June 2014

Company intelligenCeFormer US preSident Bill Clinton has lauded the efforts undertaken by the abu dhabi government to address the concerns raised earlier this month about the working conditions of labourers involved in the ConStrUCtion oF the new york UniverSity’S (nyU) new campus in the Uae’s capital.“i wish the coverage this week had been about you,” he said, while delivering the first graduation speech at nyU’s existing campus in abu dhabi.

rUSSia’S leading Car maker gaZ will launch the production of gaZelle next light CommerCial vehiCleS (lCv) in tUrkey, in 2013, gaZ exported 15% more vehicles than a year earlier, a total of 16,400 models accounting for about 17% of total sales. exports grew as sales increased in CiS countries, Southeast asia, north africa and the middle east. gaZ has 18 plants producing cars, trucks, buses, heavy equipment and car components.

at a recently-organised customer’s forum in the emirate, khalid mohammed Salih, director of the building department at dubai municipality said at least 30,000 tranSaCtionS were Carried oUt in the ConStrUCtion indUStry with qualified contractors and consultancies in 2013. 61,407 BUilding permit tranSaCtionS and 82,033 engineering SUperviSionS were Undertaken By the BUilding department in the dUration, it was revealed. the total number of operations undertaken last year amounts to 293,391, when the 111,115 included are combined to these figures.

Dubai-based compaction ACTION International Services, which specialises in ground water control, piling and ground engineering works, as well as renting pumps, has standardised its engine sourcing, choosing Volvo Penta as its supplier.

ACTION installs more than 200 diesel engines in its pumps each year but until recently didn’t have a preference for one particular brand.

Last year it decided to standardise its engines and approached several major brands, including Volvo Penta, to determine which company could provide the best engines for its purposes — as well as the best aftermarket support.

The pumps are often used in demanding applications, supplied to companies working in the construction, oil and gas, pipeline, marine and wastewater industries in the Middle East, CIS and North Africa. Following the selection process, Volvo Penta came out on top.

“Volvo Penta was the only company that came to the table

with the offerings we were looking for,” declared general manager Declan Breen. “From service and support to spare parts, the overall package they delivered was excellent. They gave us exactly what we were looking for.”

And now Volvo Penta’s six- to 16-liter engines are the only ones the company uses.

A Godwin Pump representative, ACTION had already been using Volvo Penta engines for around eight years, and the relationship was the biggest factor in the choice, says Declan.

“We know Volvo Penta engines are excellent – but the competition also has good engines,” he explained. “However, we know we are going to be well-supported with Volvo – it’s that peace of mind that made the difference more than anything. Volvo has our backs. Their service is the best in the region.”

Because ACTION assembles its pumps in Dubai and rents them to customers around the region, an extensive service network is important. “When

we were using competitor engines, we often ran into problems getting them serviced in the field,” Declan says. “If one of our pumps stopped working in a remote location and we went to the local dealer for help, they would refuse to fix it because they hadn’t sold the engine to begin with.

“But if I call Volvo, they tell us it’s no problem, and they sort out the problem straight away. That’s exactly what we need in our region. We have quick access to Volvo Penta’s service support, no matter where the engines are working.”

ACTION ChOOses VOlVO PeNTA

1 UAE-based contracting firms UnitEd EnginEEring ConstrUCtion (UnEC)

And AtCo gEnErAl ContrACting CompAny have been awarded a contract worth $326.7 million by nAkhEEl to UndErtAkE ConstrUCtion work on its 418,000sqm – large nakheel mall at palm Jumeirah. Construction on the retail development is expected to commence soon, and will be undertaken through the build-operate-transfer (bot) by the selected business partner, new mall limited, which was previously involved in nakheel’s dragon mart expansion project.

2 Following its approval by sheikh mohammed bin rashid Al maktoum in July 2013, the

First phAsE oF dEvElopmEnt on thE Al mAmzAr CorniChE bEACh project was recently completed, said a representative of dubai municipality’s environment department. two breakwaters have been constructed along the Al mamzar coastline in deira, n rao, project engineer at the municipality.constructing a pavement at the site.

tender UpdateS Komatsu has reported 86.6% sales growth in the Middle east in the past year, as it reaps the rewards of its new sales agreement in saudi Arabia with the Abdul latif Jameel (AlJ) and sumitomo JV, AlJhe.

For its 12 month figures to 31 March, 2014, Komatsu reported regional sales of $545 million (55,399 million Yen), up from $292m for the previous reporting year. The 86.6% regional growth was by far the highest of any global sales territory.

“In the Middle east, demand grew steadily in some countries of Gulf nations, and sales advanced from

KSA bumpS KomAtSu’S Strong mE pErformAncEthe previous fiscal year,” said the company’s annual report.

“In saudi Arabia, Komatsu steadfastly reinforced sales and product support operations with a leading local company with whom Komatsu signed the distributorship agreement at the end of 2012.”

With the sales bump, Komatsu sales to the Middle east make up almost 3% of the company’s annual sales revenue, which amounted to $19.2 billion, up 3.6% from the previous year. Komatsu’s largest markets are the Americas, Japan, and Asia and Oceania.

September 2011

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST6

News Round-Up

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST6 June 2014

NEWSNew machines, new offices, new projects, new initiatives – we look around the region at what’s new this month

The new excavator features mechanical fuel injection, rather than electric, to cope

with the high-sulphur diesel fuel. The fuel injection system means that less fuel filters are used, and those that are have extended life, while the engine system is also easier to repair for contractors in the field and in their workshops. Machine performance has not been affected, due to design improvements, says Caterpillar, and the new design will be rolled out across the 3-D excavator line.

The new machine was launched at an event hosted by Zahid Tractor, Caterpillar dealer for Saudi Arabia, and one of the largest sellers of ‘big yellow’ in the world.

The new machines will be available to other LRCs (less regulated markets) where fuel quality is an issue, including in the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

But in announcing the new machine, Zahid said that feedback from Saudi customers had been an important factor in the machine’s design, and that the

company had had signficant influence over the development process. The high-sulphur fuel used in Saudi Arabia

meant that customers were having to change fuel filters monthly, adding up to a high cost.

Shantui and its UAE dealer have secured a major deal for concrete mixing equipment in the Emirates, with a contract signed for 50 units worth a total of $3.2 million.

According to a company spokesperson, the sale is an important breakthrough for Shantui’s concrete machinery in the Middle East markets, raising brand awareness and laying a solid foundation for building market share.

“Over the past year, Shantui has focused on localizing its sales, relying on dealers to tap into customer demand and connect with end users. The local sales staff

works in tandem with Shantui to connect Shantui’s unbeatable value chain all the way from the factory to the job site, providing after sales support, networking with customers, and gaining trust. The sale of 50 units of concrete machinery is the fruit of this effort,” said the spokesperson.

The sale was to one of the largest ready-mix concrete firms in the Middle East, with the company’s group chairman visiting Shantui facilities in China, including the global headquarters in Jining and the Shantui Chutian concrete machinery manufacturing base in Wuhan.

Shantui’S blockbuSter uae Sale

News Round-Up

TEREx On ThE BEATEn TRACk

nine TA 400 articulated trucks are proving their worth on a mine site on the Indonesian

Island of Borneo.

Cat launches Saudi spec excavatorCaterpillar has launched a new version of its popular 320D L hydraulic excavator, the 320D L Series 2, which has been redesigned to suit the working conditions in Saudi Arabia

September 2011

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST8

News Round-Up

CONSTRUCTION


CNH Industrial, the builder of Case and New Holland construction machinery, has signed an agreement with Sumitomo to build Sumitomo-designed excavators at its manufacturing plants.

The technology license and component supply agreement will see CNH build crawler excavators, wth models ranging from 13 to 35 tonnes designed by Sumitomo Heavy Industries, with production of the new localised models expected to start mid-2016.

The agreement also extends the existing Global Product Supply (OEM) agreement between CNH Industrial and Sumitomo (SHI) Construction Machinery for the sourcing of excavators from Sumitomo plants. Sumitomo has been a supplier to the CNH Industrial global distribution network since 1992 for models ranging from 7t to 80t.

CNH Group N.V. has agreed to enter into a new licensing agreement with Sumitomo Construction Machinery a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Heavy Industries.

Under this new technology license and component supply agreement, CNH Industrial will manufacture Sumitomo designed crawler excavators ranging from 13-35t) at designated plants within its manufacturing network. Start

of production of the new localized models is planned for mid-2016.

This agreement also extends the existing Global Product Supply (OEM) agreement between CNH Industrial and Sumitomo (S.H.I.) Construction Machinery for the sourcing of excavators from Sumitomo plants.

Sumitomo has been a supplier to the CNH Industrial global distribution network since 1992 for models ranging from 7t-80t.

“This next step will further strengthen the partnership between the two companies,” said Richard Tobin, CNH Industrial CEO and Brand President of Case and New Holland Construction.

Tobin added that CNH Industrial has recently completed the transition from its previous dual source excavator strategy to a single global partner, after disbanding its previous agreement with Kobelco.

“This new licensing agreement builds on our successful long-term relationship with Sumitomo. It confirms CNH Industrial’s intention to invest and leverage the most advanced specialist players in the industry in order to provide customers around the world with construction equipment that consistently delivers performance and productivity” said Tobin.

Scania to power Terex explorers Scania has announced an agreement to supply 6-cylinder engines to Terex Cranes’ newly developed Explorer 5600 and 5800 all terrain cranes.

The engines have been adapted according to Terex Cranes’ requirements and will be delivered in Tier 4F and Stage IIIA emission level versions.

The Explorer range features a number of new features for users, and were developed partly as response to new emission requirements in Europe and other markets. They are powered by a single engine, a strategy designed to reduce the total cost of ownership and improve reliability.

“When it comes to product development and components, Terex Cranes makes

decisions based on how these will impact customers’ profits and results,” says Francois Truffier, Group VP, product and commercial strategy, Terex Cranes.

“Scania engines offer excellent performance with low cost of ownership that suit our new cranes’ single-engine concept. Terex Cranes and Scania have worked in close cooperation and the result is a high-performing crane with excellent operating economy.”

Other important parameters for Terex Cranes when choosing engines from Scania were serviceability, compactness of the installation and a global service network. Scania now supplies engines to four out of five Terex Corporation business segments.

TERMINAL TARGETSOHAR Port and Freezone welcomed the 10,000 TEU (twenty foot equivalent units) ship at the newly expanded Oman International Container Terminal (OICT) in May.

CNH to build Sumitomo exCavatorS

Exploring ScaniaScania will supply 6cyl

engines to Terex Cranes’ newly developed Explorer

5600 and 5800 ATCs

LIEbhERR TowERS ovER vIENNA40 Liebherr tower cranes are being used on a major urban development in Vienna. The 240 hectare site in the northeast of Austria’s capital is being developed at a cost of more than $5.5 billion (EUR 4bn).

September 2011

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST8

News Round-Up

CONSTRUCTION


CNH Industrial, the builder of Case and New Holland construction machinery, has signed an agreement with Sumitomo to build Sumitomo-designed excavators at its manufacturing plants.

The technology license and component supply agreement will see CNH build crawler excavators, wth models ranging from 13 to 35 tonnes designed by Sumitomo Heavy Industries, with production of the new localised models expected to start mid-2016.

The agreement also extends the existing Global Product Supply (OEM) agreement between CNH Industrial and Sumitomo (SHI) Construction Machinery for the sourcing of excavators from Sumitomo plants. Sumitomo has been a supplier to the CNH Industrial global distribution network since 1992 for models ranging from 7t to 80t.

CNH Group N.V. has agreed to enter into a new licensing agreement with Sumitomo Construction Machinery a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Heavy Industries.

Under this new technology license and component supply agreement, CNH Industrial will manufacture Sumitomo designed crawler excavators ranging from 13-35t) at designated plants within its manufacturing network. Start

of production of the new localized models is planned for mid-2016.

This agreement also extends the existing Global Product Supply (OEM) agreement between CNH Industrial and Sumitomo (S.H.I.) Construction Machinery for the sourcing of excavators from Sumitomo plants.

Sumitomo has been a supplier to the CNH Industrial global distribution network since 1992 for models ranging from 7t-80t.

“This next step will further strengthen the partnership between the two companies,” said Richard Tobin, CNH Industrial CEO and Brand President of Case and New Holland Construction.

Tobin added that CNH Industrial has recently completed the transition from its previous dual source excavator strategy to a single global partner, after disbanding its previous agreement with Kobelco.

“This new licensing agreement builds on our successful long-term relationship with Sumitomo. It confirms CNH Industrial’s intention to invest and leverage the most advanced specialist players in the industry in order to provide customers around the world with construction equipment that consistently delivers performance and productivity” said Tobin.

Scania to power Terex explorers Scania has announced an agreement to supply 6-cylinder engines to Terex Cranes’ newly developed Explorer 5600 and 5800 all terrain cranes.

The engines have been adapted according to Terex Cranes’ requirements and will be delivered in Tier 4F and Stage IIIA emission level versions.

The Explorer range features a number of new features for users, and were developed partly as response to new emission requirements in Europe and other markets. They are powered by a single engine, a strategy designed to reduce the total cost of ownership and improve reliability.

“When it comes to product development and components, Terex Cranes makes

decisions based on how these will impact customers’ profits and results,” says Francois Truffier, Group VP, product and commercial strategy, Terex Cranes.

“Scania engines offer excellent performance with low cost of ownership that suit our new cranes’ single-engine concept. Terex Cranes and Scania have worked in close cooperation and the result is a high-performing crane with excellent operating economy.”

Other important parameters for Terex Cranes when choosing engines from Scania were serviceability, compactness of the installation and a global service network. Scania now supplies engines to four out of five Terex Corporation business segments.

TERMINAL TARGETSOHAR Port and Freezone welcomed the 10,000 TEU (twenty foot equivalent units) ship at the newly expanded Oman International Container Terminal (OICT) in May.

CNH to build Sumitomo exCavatorS

Exploring ScaniaScania will supply 6cyl

engines to Terex Cranes’ newly developed Explorer

5600 and 5800 ATCs

LIEbhERR TowERS ovER vIENNA40 Liebherr tower cranes are being used on a major urban development in Vienna. The 240 hectare site in the northeast of Austria’s capital is being developed at a cost of more than $5.5 billion (EUR 4bn).

www.shantui.com

TunisSociété Commerciale de Matériels (COMAT)www.comat.tn+216-74468710AzerbaijanGrand Motors LLCwww.grandmotors.az+994-125647494

United Arab EmiratesGeneral Navigation And Commerce Company (GENAVCO) L.L.C(Member of Juma Al-Majid group)

www.genavco.com+971-43961000OmanGeneral Engineering Services Est.(Genserv)(Member of Juma Al-Majid group)

www.genserv-oman.com+968-24490755

QatarAl Arabia Heavy Equipment Co. L.L.C.(Member of Al Fardan Group)

www.alarabia.com.qa+974-44971090BahrainZAYANI MOTORS W.L.L.www.zmotors.com+973-17703703

Saudi Arabia-Arabian Bugshan Group(Earthmoving machinery)

www.abugshangroup.com+966-14931018-Yusuf Bin Ahmed Kanoo Co., Ltd.(Concrete machinery)

www.kanoocom.com+966-22632959KuwaitBahrah Trading Company W.L.L.www.bahrahtrading.com+965-1802008

IraqAl Ittihadia General Trading Co.( Member of Sardar Group)

www.sardargroup.com+964-662569888AlgeriaS.A.R.L. SOCOPEwww.socope.net+213-43273939

Shantui‘s value proposition made Shantui a leader in China’s fast-growing construction machinery industry.

Now, with a fully diversified line of products and a mature international sales network, Shantui is uniquely able to put that value proposition to work globally, meeting the need for value and exceeding the performance expectations of heavy construction machinery customers around the world.

It’s the Shantui Way.

Value, Ready To Work

September 2011

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST10

News Round-Up

CONSTRUCTION


Ground has been broken on Al Wakrah Stadium, the first proposed Host Venue to be delivered ahead of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup, the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, has announced.

The second phase of construction is underway onsite at the stadium, with HBK Contracting Company carrying out the ground works, the Supreme Committee said in a statement. The decision to award HBK the contract followed a tender process implemented for a number of Qatari contractors with local knowledge and proven capabilities.

The move comes as part of the Supreme Committee’s vision to develop the private sector.

HBK has begun major excavation works in preparation of the foundations which will be laid in September. This phase of construction is scheduled to be completed by March 2015, with total completion expected by 2018.

Early works at Al Wakrah were carried out by AMANA, while foundation

work by HBK will be marked by a ceremony in September, followed by the announcement of the main construction company at the end of the year.

Embedded in the contract won by HBK are the SC’s Workers’ Welfare Standards. These standards —which are aligned with Qatari Labour Law and international best practice and have been incorporated in all contracts —set clear guidelines that protect the rights of workers throughout the entire chain of contracting, from recruitment to repatriation. The 40,000-seater New Al Wakrah Stadium is the future home of Al Wakrah Sports Club. It was the first of Qatar’s FIFA World Cup proposed host venues to be revealed.

Three Grove all-terrain cranes have been used to install the foundation of a unique f loating building on the river Mosel in Schengen, Luxembourg.

Two of the Grove cranes, a GMK6300L and GMK6220L, completed the complicated tandem lift, placing the 64 t base of the building, measured 34 m long and 6 m wide. A GMK3055 was also on site for support.

All three cranes are owned by local rental company Megalift S.A. Working in consultation with the local Manitowoc dealer MKT, the two main cranes were chosen for their precise load control, said MKT general manager Uwe Döring.

“Grove cranes are easy to maneuver, quick to set-up and make light work of even demanding lifts,” he says. “It was extremely important that the two cranes worked together to lift the load smoothly. The operators were very impressed by the ease with which they handled the demanding job. The cranes caused minimum disruption to the surrounding area, performed the lift very efficiently and were on their way to

the next job site in no time.”Situated on a small, residential

road next to a sloped riverbank, the job site made for a challenging set up. The cranes were carefully positioned to execute the intricate lift, which required the 300 t capacity GMK6300L and the 220 t GMK6220L to perform a 180-degree pick and carry from a truck over to the river.

Having traveled 60 km from Megalift’s headquarters in Colmar Berg to the job site, the three cranes took half a day to set up and spent two days on the project. River traffic was halted during the lift, but despite the large load and the difficulties in preparing the narrow riverbank, the Grove cranes completed the job with time to spare. The building will be a new tourist information and exhibition center.

Grove’s 300 tonne capacity GMK6300L is a six-axle, all-terrain crane with the longest boom in its class, at 80 m, while the 220 t capacity Grove GMK6220L is its predecessor that offers a 72 m boom. The GMK3055 has a 55 t capacity and a 43 m main boom.

Kingdom Tower To be compleTed by december 2018

Groves in tandem liftSaudi Arabia’s Kingdom Tower is scheduled to be completed by December 2018, the CEO of the Jeddah Economic Company has confirmed during a summit in Dubai. Set to be the world’s tallest tower at 1,008 metres, Mounib Hammoud told delegates at the Arabian World Construction Summit that contractors were currently working on the raft foundation of the tower.

“It is the largest concrete raft in the world. In places, the thickness is five metres,” Hammoud said. “Everything in the tower is the biggest or tallest.”

Contractors working on the $1.6 billion project expect to complete the raft foundation by August of this year.

The tower will be the nucleus of a new commercial centre to the north of Jeddah. The first phase will stretch out over a total area of 1.4

million square metres. It will in include the tower, a mosque for 12,000 worshippers, a shopping mall and a number of residential and commercial buildings.

Hammoud said that the entire first phase could cost as much as $3.73 billion to complete. The contractor on the project is the Saudi Binladin Group. In February 2013, a JV between EC Harris and Mace was awarded the project management contract to oversee development.

Earlier this month, Hammoud said that construction funding for the project would be in place by the end of the first half of this year. BNP Paribas SA is currently advising Jeddah Economic Company, he added, but did not disclose the size of the loan being sought.

The builder has been looking for financing since April 2012, a report by Bloomberg

News said, quoting sources familiar with the project.

“The slogan of the company now is ‘It’s happening’ because, before I joined last September, people were asking whether the project is happening,” Hammoud said at the time. “We are up and running.”

Kingdom Tower was designed by Adrian Smith, the Chicago architect responsible for the 828-meter Burj Khalifa, which opened in Dubai in 2010 and currently holds the record for the tallest building.

ground worKs beginon Al wAKrAh sTAdium

September 2011

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST10

News Round-Up

CONSTRUCTION


Ground has been broken on Al Wakrah Stadium, the first proposed Host Venue to be delivered ahead of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup, the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, has announced.

The second phase of construction is underway onsite at the stadium, with HBK Contracting Company carrying out the ground works, the Supreme Committee said in a statement. The decision to award HBK the contract followed a tender process implemented for a number of Qatari contractors with local knowledge and proven capabilities.

The move comes as part of the Supreme Committee’s vision to develop the private sector.

HBK has begun major excavation works in preparation of the foundations which will be laid in September. This phase of construction is scheduled to be completed by March 2015, with total completion expected by 2018.

Early works at Al Wakrah were carried out by AMANA, while foundation

work by HBK will be marked by a ceremony in September, followed by the announcement of the main construction company at the end of the year.

Embedded in the contract won by HBK are the SC’s Workers’ Welfare Standards. These standards —which are aligned with Qatari Labour Law and international best practice and have been incorporated in all contracts —set clear guidelines that protect the rights of workers throughout the entire chain of contracting, from recruitment to repatriation. The 40,000-seater New Al Wakrah Stadium is the future home of Al Wakrah Sports Club. It was the first of Qatar’s FIFA World Cup proposed host venues to be revealed.

Three Grove all-terrain cranes have been used to install the foundation of a unique f loating building on the river Mosel in Schengen, Luxembourg.

Two of the Grove cranes, a GMK6300L and GMK6220L, completed the complicated tandem lift, placing the 64 t base of the building, measured 34 m long and 6 m wide. A GMK3055 was also on site for support.

All three cranes are owned by local rental company Megalift S.A. Working in consultation with the local Manitowoc dealer MKT, the two main cranes were chosen for their precise load control, said MKT general manager Uwe Döring.

“Grove cranes are easy to maneuver, quick to set-up and make light work of even demanding lifts,” he says. “It was extremely important that the two cranes worked together to lift the load smoothly. The operators were very impressed by the ease with which they handled the demanding job. The cranes caused minimum disruption to the surrounding area, performed the lift very efficiently and were on their way to

the next job site in no time.”Situated on a small, residential

road next to a sloped riverbank, the job site made for a challenging set up. The cranes were carefully positioned to execute the intricate lift, which required the 300 t capacity GMK6300L and the 220 t GMK6220L to perform a 180-degree pick and carry from a truck over to the river.

Having traveled 60 km from Megalift’s headquarters in Colmar Berg to the job site, the three cranes took half a day to set up and spent two days on the project. River traffic was halted during the lift, but despite the large load and the difficulties in preparing the narrow riverbank, the Grove cranes completed the job with time to spare. The building will be a new tourist information and exhibition center.

Grove’s 300 tonne capacity GMK6300L is a six-axle, all-terrain crane with the longest boom in its class, at 80 m, while the 220 t capacity Grove GMK6220L is its predecessor that offers a 72 m boom. The GMK3055 has a 55 t capacity and a 43 m main boom.

Kingdom Tower To be compleTed by december 2018

Groves in tandem liftSaudi Arabia’s Kingdom Tower is scheduled to be completed by December 2018, the CEO of the Jeddah Economic Company has confirmed during a summit in Dubai. Set to be the world’s tallest tower at 1,008 metres, Mounib Hammoud told delegates at the Arabian World Construction Summit that contractors were currently working on the raft foundation of the tower.

“It is the largest concrete raft in the world. In places, the thickness is five metres,” Hammoud said. “Everything in the tower is the biggest or tallest.”

Contractors working on the $1.6 billion project expect to complete the raft foundation by August of this year.

The tower will be the nucleus of a new commercial centre to the north of Jeddah. The first phase will stretch out over a total area of 1.4

million square metres. It will in include the tower, a mosque for 12,000 worshippers, a shopping mall and a number of residential and commercial buildings.

Hammoud said that the entire first phase could cost as much as $3.73 billion to complete. The contractor on the project is the Saudi Binladin Group. In February 2013, a JV between EC Harris and Mace was awarded the project management contract to oversee development.

Earlier this month, Hammoud said that construction funding for the project would be in place by the end of the first half of this year. BNP Paribas SA is currently advising Jeddah Economic Company, he added, but did not disclose the size of the loan being sought.

The builder has been looking for financing since April 2012, a report by Bloomberg

News said, quoting sources familiar with the project.

“The slogan of the company now is ‘It’s happening’ because, before I joined last September, people were asking whether the project is happening,” Hammoud said at the time. “We are up and running.”

Kingdom Tower was designed by Adrian Smith, the Chicago architect responsible for the 828-meter Burj Khalifa, which opened in Dubai in 2010 and currently holds the record for the tallest building.

ground worKs beginon Al wAKrAh sTAdium

AFGHANISTANFAMCO (Al-Futtaim Auto & Machinery Co. LLC)+ 971 4 213 5100 (UAE) [email protected]

AZERBAIJANAztexnika Ltd+ 994 502 452 [email protected]

BAHRAINA.A. Bin Hindi B.S.C (c)+ 973 17 [email protected]

GEORGIAElite Motors Ltd+ 995 577 769 [email protected]

IRAQSardar Automobile andMachinery Trading Co.+ 964 750 344 [email protected]

KUWAITAl-Zabin International Group Co.For Heavy Equipment+ 965 2433 [email protected]

LEBANONAMTRAC (Abdelmassih Trading Company) + 961 3 [email protected]

PAKISTANVPL Limited+ 92 42 111 875 875uzair.shahid @panasiangroup.com

QATARArabian Agencies Company WLL+ 974 44 50 [email protected]

OMANGENSERV (General Engineering Services Est)+ 968 244 90755 [email protected]

SAUDI ARABIA FAMCO (Al-Futtaim Auto & Machinery Co. LLC)+ 966 12 680 4444 [email protected]

SYRIANassib Saad Est. Trading & Import+ 963 11 222 [email protected]

TURKEYAscendum Makina+ 90 216 581 80 [email protected]

TURKMENISTANEz Aziya-Hyzmatdash+ 993 124 37278h.hangeldyev @aziya-hyzmatdash.com

UAEFAMCO (Al-Futtaim Auto & Machinery Co. LLC)+ 971 4 213 5100 [email protected]

YEMENElaghil Trading Co+ 967 1 207 [email protected]

Sometimes we all could use a little help. And of course, the best kind of help is expert help.

Volvo Customer Support Agreements allow you access to the full spectrum of support that Volvo

can offer its customers. Everything from regular checkups on the equipment to running the

whole fleet for you. Leaving you free to concentrate on what matters to YOUR customer most:

delivering a successful project, on time. Discover a new way.

volvoce.com

this is MORE THAN a road:this is a successful project

delivered on time

CUSTOMER SUPPORT AGREEMENTS

Raz IslamPublishing [email protected]: +971 50 451 8213

Michael StansfieldCommercial Director [email protected]: +971 55 150 3849

Co-located with

At the 2014 Construction Machinery Show we sold 70 units and 100 more units are under discussion. We have delivered a positive message to our existing clients, our competitors, and grabbed new clients. I think gaining such an appreciation from all members in the construction equipment sector is a great honour and will encourage us to work very hard to keep the same level of style, image, and standards.”

Al-Qahtani & SonsKhaled El Shatoury, Managing Director

This year the CM Show team delivered an exhibition Saudi deserves. For years, we have seen a vision in this Show and this year the vision was achieved. We wanted quality traffic and we saw equipment and company owners; and we were able to offer some promotions to entice sales.I saw an increase in our sales immediately. Our principles, Doosan and Everdigm, really enjoyed themselves. We anticipate the upcoming years to be even better.”

Saudi Diesel EquipmentAhmed Alkooheji, Marketing Manager

The Construction Machinery Show was perfect from an awareness point of view.We explained Roots Group Arabia’scapability of covering the construction industry with all of its needs and requirements. The attendance was good especially during weekdays and towards the end of the exhibition. See you next year.”

Roots Group ArabiaAbdulaziz Felemban, Brand Manager

CMME SHOW 2015v3.indd 1 5/4/14 2:49 PM

conStrUctIon

MIDDle eaSt14

Kit Spotting

Should you get one? Wheeled excavators are highly mobile, which is an advantage on hilly terrain, allowing them to drive to different parts of

the job site relatively quickly. In the Middle East, contractors have typically preferred to rely on backhoe loaders, which equally can travel quickly about a work site, as well has having arguably greater functionality, or the traditional

tracked excavators. Compared with a backhoe, there is a significant difference in engine size for wheeled excavators – the 210W has a 127kW engine (170 HP), while the industry-standard backhoe loader steps in at around 74kW. That means in the application pictured – hydraulic breaking – there’s more hydraulic pressure to power the attachment. The heavily reinforced boom means the option of using a larger

hammer attachment, breaking through concrete faster. Wheeled excavators are a popular machine in South Korea, on account of the steep terrain, and explains why Doosan doesn’t have a backhoe loader in its line up, and why Hyundai HI launched its backhoe product only in 2012. So next time you’re starting work on a contract on a hilly site, consider whether a wheeled excavator will help speed up the work.

June 2014

conStrUctIon

MIDDle eaSt14

DooSan 210W WheeleDexcavatorWhere: Spotted on a road construction project in northern Morocco. The wheeled exavator was using a hydraulic breaker to demolish the foundations for an old bridge, brought down to make way for a new road expansion project

Spotted!

June 2014

COnSTRuCTiOn

MiddlE EAST16

Heavy Hitters

Building up Sdlg SDLG’s business manager for the Middle East,

Jan-Erik Eriksson, believes that professional distribution, strong products and a knowledge of your customer base are the keys to building a successful wheel loader business

June 2014

COnSTRuCTiOn

MiddlE EAST16

Heavy Hitters

Building up Sdlg SDLG’s business manager for the Middle East,

Jan-Erik Eriksson, believes that professional distribution, strong products and a knowledge of your customer base are the keys to building a successful wheel loader business

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 17

Wheel loaders from Chinese brand SDLG are among the world’s best-selling, and may even be the world’s best-selling. The past couple of years have seen the company ramp up its activities outside

its native China and particular attention has been given to the Middle East, one of the most important sales regions for SDLG products.

Business manager for SDLG in the Middle East is Jan-Erik Eriksson, a highly experienced industry

professional, who has spent many years in the region selling a variety of construction equipment products.

He says that SDLG is well-placed for future growth in the Middle East and picks out three reasons to support this.

“First off we have spent time developing the network, partnering with some of the biggest names in equipment distribution,” he says. “Second, we understand our customer base and have tailored our offering to meet their needs. And third, we’ve got a solid and reliable product.”

Full operationSDLG now has full-time staff based in the EMEA region and serving the Middle East directly, covering the full range of activities needed to run a successful equipment business, including sales, customer support, service, marketing, etc. This staff works in conjunction with the SDLG dealer network which comprises well-established and experienced companies, including: Famco, for Saudi Arabia; Pacific Machinery for UAE; Araco for Qatar; and General Engineering Services Est., for Oman.

“Our SDLG dealers are all established companies, experienced in heavy equipment distribution and support,” notes Eriksson. “And they’re improving every day with the SDLG product. We had our first dealer conference earlier this year and it was a great success.”

He continues: “We discussed our current product range and ways we can enhance our parts support, all in the name of building the SDLG brand in the Middle East.”

To ensure service and support levels are better than customers would expect from other value brands, SDLG and its dealers have invested in parts inventories. And the brand is also opening its first regional training center, in Dubai, in a further demonstration of its commitment to customer support.

Not only supporting, but understanding those customers will be crucial. It’s no secret that the most successful businesses create products and services around the needs of their customers. For SDLG that means focusing on reliable machinery that provides a fast return on investment for

“SPONSOrING THE AFC PUTS THE SDLG BrAND IN FrONT OF HUNDrEDS OF THOUSANDS OF SOCCEr FANS ACrOSS THE MIDDLE EAST AND OTHEr TArGET MArkETS. SOCCEr IS A SPOrT THE COMPANy HAS A LONG ASSOCIATION WITH.”

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST18

Heavy Hitters

customers; and ensuring there is a structure in place to support the products.

For the Middle East, Jan-Erik Eriksson, defines a typical SDLG customer.

=“We’re talking to a lot of smaller, family-run companies,” he says. “Companies that do day hires, or run their own small businesses in construction or agriculture who are looking for a reliable day-to-day machine that offers great value.

“We’re also talking to companies wanting machines for lighter duties, such as ready mix concrete firms, where the work tends to be less demanding re-handling duties.

“Our customers don’t want a machine with the fastest available cycle time, or sensitive sophisticated on-board diagnostics, because it’s not what they need. They want dependable performance, a tough machine and parts with service support when they need it. That’s what we offer. ”

Sport SponSorShipTo help promote the SDLG brand in its most important markets, including the Middle East, the company is sponsoring the AFC Champions League, an inter-regional soccer competition for clubs from the Middle East, Asia and Australia. In late April, the company invited a group of VIP customers from UAE to watch local team Al Ahli play Al Hilal of Saudi Arabia in the group stages. An LG958L wheel loader was shown outside the stadium and drew lots of attention from the crowd.

“There were 8,000 at the Al Ahli stadium where we showed the LG958L and then 40,000 at the return game in Saudi Arabia,” says Eriksson. “Sponsoring the AFC puts the SDLG brand in front of hundreds of thousands of soccer fans across the Middle East and other target markets. Soccer is a sport the company

“OUr CUSTOMErS DOn’T WAnT A MACHInE WITH THE FASTEST AVAILAbLE CyCLE TIME, Or SEnSITIVE SOPHISTICATED On-bOArD DIAGnOSTICS, bECAUSE IT’S nOT WHAT THEy nEED. THEy WAnT DEPEnDAbLE PErFOrMAnCE.”

has a long association with, and so many of its customers are fans too.”

The LG958L was chosen for display at the AFC soccer match in UAE because it is the biggest selling model in the Middle East. The 5 t capacity unit sits in the most popular category and with a 3 m3 standard bucket and 3.12 m maximum dump height, it is perfect for all kinds of farming and general construction activities.

Slightly bigger, but also very popular, is the 6 t capacity LG968, which has a 3.5 m3 standard bucket and a maximum dump height of 3.25 m. This unit is also popular among those working in farming or construction applications.

The LG958 and LG968 make up the majority of sales in the Middle East, but a third model, launched only last December is expected to prove a hit also. The LG978 is a 7t capacity model and, like the LG968, it has a maximum dump height of 3.25 m, but it comes with a larger standard bucket of 4.2 m3. According to Jan-Erik Eriksson, LG978 offers greater capacity and a newer design.

“The new LG978 takes us up to the next capacity class. It’s naturally a bigger machine and it also has some more advanced engineering built in,” he says. “It’s rough and tough and is the kind of loader that will perform really well in a quarry. We’ve already supplied the first units to our dealers in the region and we expect the first sales to customers to begin soon.”

For customers in the Middle East, SDLG offers machines that are generally higher specification than those that are most popular in China. For example, there is a choice of transmissions (a simpler two-speed, or a four-speed for more versatility), a choice of rOPS or FOPS, and a selection of attachments.

Demand for wheel loaders has been quite flat across the Middle East in recent months, but activity is beginning to pick up according to Eriksson, especially in Saudi Arabia and Oman. And, he says, better times lie ahead.

“There’s a lot of attention around the Worldexpo 2020 in Dubai and we expect activity to start picking up in the third quarter of this year,” he says. “And when it does I believe we’ll see more interest in SDLG wheel loaders. With our established dealer network, training and service support and durable products we can offer customers a product that gives solid performance and offers a faster return on investment.”

SDLG brand wheel loaders are manufactured by Shandong Lingong Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. (known as Lingong). The company’s manufacturing headquarters is in Linyi, China and it employs 3,150 people worldwide.

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST18

Heavy Hitters

customers; and ensuring there is a structure in place to support the products.

For the Middle East, Jan-Erik Eriksson, defines a typical SDLG customer.

=“We’re talking to a lot of smaller, family-run companies,” he says. “Companies that do day hires, or run their own small businesses in construction or agriculture who are looking for a reliable day-to-day machine that offers great value.

“We’re also talking to companies wanting machines for lighter duties, such as ready mix concrete firms, where the work tends to be less demanding re-handling duties.

“Our customers don’t want a machine with the fastest available cycle time, or sensitive sophisticated on-board diagnostics, because it’s not what they need. They want dependable performance, a tough machine and parts with service support when they need it. That’s what we offer. ”

Sport SponSorShipTo help promote the SDLG brand in its most important markets, including the Middle East, the company is sponsoring the AFC Champions League, an inter-regional soccer competition for clubs from the Middle East, Asia and Australia. In late April, the company invited a group of VIP customers from UAE to watch local team Al Ahli play Al Hilal of Saudi Arabia in the group stages. An LG958L wheel loader was shown outside the stadium and drew lots of attention from the crowd.

“There were 8,000 at the Al Ahli stadium where we showed the LG958L and then 40,000 at the return game in Saudi Arabia,” says Eriksson. “Sponsoring the AFC puts the SDLG brand in front of hundreds of thousands of soccer fans across the Middle East and other target markets. Soccer is a sport the company

“OUr CUSTOMErS DOn’T WAnT A MACHInE WITH THE FASTEST AVAILAbLE CyCLE TIME, Or SEnSITIVE SOPHISTICATED On-bOArD DIAGnOSTICS, bECAUSE IT’S nOT WHAT THEy nEED. THEy WAnT DEPEnDAbLE PErFOrMAnCE.”

has a long association with, and so many of its customers are fans too.”

The LG958L was chosen for display at the AFC soccer match in UAE because it is the biggest selling model in the Middle East. The 5 t capacity unit sits in the most popular category and with a 3 m3 standard bucket and 3.12 m maximum dump height, it is perfect for all kinds of farming and general construction activities.

Slightly bigger, but also very popular, is the 6 t capacity LG968, which has a 3.5 m3 standard bucket and a maximum dump height of 3.25 m. This unit is also popular among those working in farming or construction applications.

The LG958 and LG968 make up the majority of sales in the Middle East, but a third model, launched only last December is expected to prove a hit also. The LG978 is a 7t capacity model and, like the LG968, it has a maximum dump height of 3.25 m, but it comes with a larger standard bucket of 4.2 m3. According to Jan-Erik Eriksson, LG978 offers greater capacity and a newer design.

“The new LG978 takes us up to the next capacity class. It’s naturally a bigger machine and it also has some more advanced engineering built in,” he says. “It’s rough and tough and is the kind of loader that will perform really well in a quarry. We’ve already supplied the first units to our dealers in the region and we expect the first sales to customers to begin soon.”

For customers in the Middle East, SDLG offers machines that are generally higher specification than those that are most popular in China. For example, there is a choice of transmissions (a simpler two-speed, or a four-speed for more versatility), a choice of rOPS or FOPS, and a selection of attachments.

Demand for wheel loaders has been quite flat across the Middle East in recent months, but activity is beginning to pick up according to Eriksson, especially in Saudi Arabia and Oman. And, he says, better times lie ahead.

“There’s a lot of attention around the Worldexpo 2020 in Dubai and we expect activity to start picking up in the third quarter of this year,” he says. “And when it does I believe we’ll see more interest in SDLG wheel loaders. With our established dealer network, training and service support and durable products we can offer customers a product that gives solid performance and offers a faster return on investment.”

SDLG brand wheel loaders are manufactured by Shandong Lingong Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. (known as Lingong). The company’s manufacturing headquarters is in Linyi, China and it employs 3,150 people worldwide.

volvo_367567_b130316_fmx240x300mm.pdf 1 4/21/14 11:06 AM

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST20

Power Profile

Zahid Tractor has a dominant position in the Saudi Arabian machinery market, with a market strategy based around solid products and extensive after-sales support. And the launch of the new 320D2L signals the importance of the KSA machinery market globally

FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

Power Profile

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION


CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST20

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST20

Power Profile

Zahid Tractor has a dominant position in the Saudi Arabian machinery market, with a market strategy based around solid products and extensive after-sales support. And the launch of the new 320D2L signals the importance of the KSA machinery market globally

FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

Power Profile

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION


CONSTRUCTION


CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 21

“ZAHID HAS DONE MORE THAN SIMPLY RISE WITH THE TIDE: IT HAS SEEN SIGNFICANT BUSINESS SUCCESSES OVER THE PAST YEARS, INCLUDING

EXPANDING ITS CAT RENTAL BUSINESS.”

FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH I

n facilitating the Middle East launch of Caterpillar’s new 320D2L excavator at Caterpillar’s learning and demonstration centre in Malaga, Spain, the dealer for Saudi Arabia, Zahid Tractor was demonstrating

its importance regionally and globally. While the 320D2L hydraulic excavator (and other D2 machines) will be released in the Middle East and elsewhere, customer feedback from users in Saudi Arabia, and from Zahid Tractor itself, played a key role in shaping the machine’s design. Its simpler fuel injection system is easier to repair in a contractor’s workshop; and its hammer return filter is designed to cope with the main use of the machine: use of a hydraulic breaker attachment.

It’s a sign that Saudi Arabia is considered as a key market by Caterpillar, the largest manufacturer of construction machinery in the world. And for good reason: in 2012, Zahid Tractor was the best performing dealer in the world for the brand, (though this feat can be partially attributed to the sharp cyclical downturn in mining experienced worldwide). Non-Caterpillar brands are not to be forgotten, and include Volvo Trucks and buses and Renault Trucks, Bauer foundation equipment, JLG material handling equipment, Rammer industrial hammers, Svetruck specialized lifts and Terex cranes. Recently it took on the dealership of Cat mining’s Bucyrus brand, to provide large mining equipment to the burgeoning mining market in the country.

While other markets in the GCC boomed before 2009, notably the Emirates, Saudi Arabia now accounts for the lion’s share of the construction equipment market in the Middle East. But Zahid Tractor has done more than simply rise with the tide: it has seen signficant business successes over the past years, including expanding its successful CAT rental business. And in a business model where

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION


CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 21

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST22

Power Profile

Saudi Binladen Group (SBG). But it isn’t just after big business, as can be seen from its Future Contractors programme, designed to aid SME contractors to enter the market place, with features including a simple and swift credit process, as well as support to nurture Saudi individuals and SMEs. The new 320D2L is a part of the scheme, and is being offered with a special 4% financing rate.

Part of the much larger Zahid Group, sister companies such as Al Taaqa Saudi provide synergistic relations. The power rental company is a major player in the Saudi market, while the Group has gone on to launch power rental company Al Taaqa Global, based in Dubai, which aims to become the leading temporary power solutions provider before year 2020.

Meanwhile, in 2006 Zahid Group along with Total, formed Saudi Total Lubricants Company (SATLUB), a joint venture specializing in the manufacturing and marketing of automotive, industrial and marine lubricants, as well as specialty products marketed within KSA.

it supplies customers with a new machine and an operator, it’s seen a further rise as a result of recent labour law changes in the Kingdom. The rental business doesn’t just supply Caterpillar machines: in 2012, the rental store was recognised by Terex Corporation as the top performer worldwide for light towers, selling a total of 186 units for the year. And it’s a virtuous circle: after 18 to 24 months on a job site, the rented Caterpillar machines are overhauled and refurbished by the dealer, and sold as authorised used, with guarantees on the replaced parts and machine.

It’s a slick operation. And in a country the size of Saudi Arabia, service support from the dealer, and the number of regional offices are an essential factor in a machinery brand’s success. Zahid Tractor has what is surely the most comprehensive coverage in the Kingdom: three regional offices, 15 branches, two depots, and three project support sites (with the option of providing large customers with project support mobile workshops). Technology within the company includes an oil sampling laboratory, the Cat powertrain rebuild programme, and a major components support programme (covering hydraulic main pump, motors and valves). It also offers full telemetry support and services to customers, including VisionLink and SOS Services.

Zahid Tractor has strong relationships with many of the Kingdom’s biggest constractors, including

The Zahid family has been connected to commerce for over a century and in 1950 a chance meeting with Caterpillar resulted in a close-knit relationship. Since then Zahid has distributed Caterpillar machinery and equipment to the Kingdom’s private and public sectors. This partnership eventually led to the formation of Zahid Group’s flagship company, Zahid Tractor & Heavy Machinery Co. Ltd., in 1967 by the late Sheikh Yousuf M. Zahid.

Over the years, Zahid Tractor has added international brands such as Challenger agricultural

tractors, JLG material handling equipment, Rammer industrial hammers, Renault trucks, Svetruck specialized lifts, Terex cranes, and Volvo trucks and buses.

The company was subsequently restructured into three core business units – Construction Machinery, Commercial Vehicles and Rental. Today, Zahid Tractor serves a number of industries, including construction and infrastructure, industrial, logistics and warehousing, agriculture, transportation, petroleum, mining, and quarry and aggregates.

Zahid Tractor is one of the few companies in the region that is ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 certified, proving its ability to deliver services reliably, safely and environmentally friendly. With over 40 branches Kingdom-wide, Zahid Tractor ensures close proximity to customers, no matter their location.

Established in 1982, Zahid Tractor’s Rental Division began with a mission to provide customers with short and medium term rental solutions, pioneering the concept of renting equipment in Saudi

Arabia. Today the division is at the forefront of this sector, offering equipment, engines and generators for construction, mining, industrial, petroleum and agricultural applications.

In 2012, Zahid was Caterpillar’s number one machine and engine unit seller, including being number one in tractors, skid steer loaders and pavers. In 2013, it was also Cat’s premier largetractor seller for the third year running, its best seller globally for meduim sized excavators in EAME, the number one globally for skid steers and number one in pavers.

About ZAhid

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST22

Power Profile

Saudi Binladen Group (SBG). But it isn’t just after big business, as can be seen from its Future Contractors programme, designed to aid SME contractors to enter the market place, with features including a simple and swift credit process, as well as support to nurture Saudi individuals and SMEs. The new 320D2L is a part of the scheme, and is being offered with a special 4% financing rate.

Part of the much larger Zahid Group, sister companies such as Al Taaqa Saudi provide synergistic relations. The power rental company is a major player in the Saudi market, while the Group has gone on to launch power rental company Al Taaqa Global, based in Dubai, which aims to become the leading temporary power solutions provider before year 2020.

Meanwhile, in 2006 Zahid Group along with Total, formed Saudi Total Lubricants Company (SATLUB), a joint venture specializing in the manufacturing and marketing of automotive, industrial and marine lubricants, as well as specialty products marketed within KSA.

it supplies customers with a new machine and an operator, it’s seen a further rise as a result of recent labour law changes in the Kingdom. The rental business doesn’t just supply Caterpillar machines: in 2012, the rental store was recognised by Terex Corporation as the top performer worldwide for light towers, selling a total of 186 units for the year. And it’s a virtuous circle: after 18 to 24 months on a job site, the rented Caterpillar machines are overhauled and refurbished by the dealer, and sold as authorised used, with guarantees on the replaced parts and machine.

It’s a slick operation. And in a country the size of Saudi Arabia, service support from the dealer, and the number of regional offices are an essential factor in a machinery brand’s success. Zahid Tractor has what is surely the most comprehensive coverage in the Kingdom: three regional offices, 15 branches, two depots, and three project support sites (with the option of providing large customers with project support mobile workshops). Technology within the company includes an oil sampling laboratory, the Cat powertrain rebuild programme, and a major components support programme (covering hydraulic main pump, motors and valves). It also offers full telemetry support and services to customers, including VisionLink and SOS Services.

Zahid Tractor has strong relationships with many of the Kingdom’s biggest constractors, including

The Zahid family has been connected to commerce for over a century and in 1950 a chance meeting with Caterpillar resulted in a close-knit relationship. Since then Zahid has distributed Caterpillar machinery and equipment to the Kingdom’s private and public sectors. This partnership eventually led to the formation of Zahid Group’s flagship company, Zahid Tractor & Heavy Machinery Co. Ltd., in 1967 by the late Sheikh Yousuf M. Zahid.

Over the years, Zahid Tractor has added international brands such as Challenger agricultural

tractors, JLG material handling equipment, Rammer industrial hammers, Renault trucks, Svetruck specialized lifts, Terex cranes, and Volvo trucks and buses.

The company was subsequently restructured into three core business units – Construction Machinery, Commercial Vehicles and Rental. Today, Zahid Tractor serves a number of industries, including construction and infrastructure, industrial, logistics and warehousing, agriculture, transportation, petroleum, mining, and quarry and aggregates.

Zahid Tractor is one of the few companies in the region that is ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 certified, proving its ability to deliver services reliably, safely and environmentally friendly. With over 40 branches Kingdom-wide, Zahid Tractor ensures close proximity to customers, no matter their location.

Established in 1982, Zahid Tractor’s Rental Division began with a mission to provide customers with short and medium term rental solutions, pioneering the concept of renting equipment in Saudi

Arabia. Today the division is at the forefront of this sector, offering equipment, engines and generators for construction, mining, industrial, petroleum and agricultural applications.

In 2012, Zahid was Caterpillar’s number one machine and engine unit seller, including being number one in tractors, skid steer loaders and pavers. In 2013, it was also Cat’s premier largetractor seller for the third year running, its best seller globally for meduim sized excavators in EAME, the number one globally for skid steers and number one in pavers.

About ZAhid

Power meets comfort! With increased hydraulic power and a gargantuan grip, this skid steer loader is pure muscle. While the re-engineered cab keeps you comfy as you maneuver quickly and surely – doing more, faster and better.

S450

UP NEXT . . .A DEEP SEATED PROBLEM

1 / 3

Meanwhile… it s̒ make-or-break time at the demolition site.

No load s̒ too heavy, no space too tight, no terrain too rough.

The day s̒ hardly started, and yet this job̒s already done and dusted.

But that s̒ just business as usual for this beast of a machine.

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST24

Launch

Facts And Stats 200 bar: pressure in mechanical fuel injector

50%

reduction in the number of fuel filters, from 4 down to 2

1700 rpm:new engine rpm for operation

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION


CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 25

Caterpillar’s 320D is one of the best-selling machines in Saudi Arabia, and is especially favoured by contractors for hammer applications. In bringing a new version of the

machine to market, it was essential for Caterpillar to ensure that it got the fundamentals right. The result is a mix of high tech and low tech solutions, designed to produce a machine optimised for the work style and ground conditions of the Middle East. Buy the new 320D2L, and this is what you’ll be getting:

UNPACKING THE NEW

CAT 320D2LCaterpillar’s new 320D2L has been built for the

working conditions of Saudi Arabia, following extensive consultation with customers in the Kingdom, and feedback from dealer Zahid Tractor. The machine

introduces a number of new features, both high and low tech solutions, designed to reduce operational costs

for contractors. CMME International Editor Stian Overdahl unpacks the features of the new machine

MECHANICAL FUEL INJECTIONThe biggest change on the new model is the use of low pressure, mechanical fuel injection, replacing the more sophisticated electric direct injection system used on the 320D and other models in the range. It’s a big decision to take, and, some might argue, a step backwards to an older technology that’s less fuel efficient. But it’s not without precedent – a number of other manufacturers have continued to use mechanical injection systems on their engines, and it’s a popular feature with buyers, especially when it comes to the second hand market. But why?

Basically, Caterpillar’s decision to reintroduce mechanical injection can be reduced to two main reasons, both of them customer focused. Firstly, the diesel fuel in the Middle East is ‘dirty’, containing sulphur and potentially other particulate contaminants, which can cause damage to the delicate electronic injection system due to the high pressure (1200 bar).

The 320D has four fuel filters to combat dirty fuel – which did solve the problem, but also resulted in a new problem emerging: some of the filters were having to be changed as often as monthly, creating a significant cost for contractors, in terms of new filters, maintenance hours, as well as machine-down time. The new engine has only two fuel filters, which will have to be replaced less frequently, with the service interval increasing from 250 hours to 500. Caterpillar estimates that the reduced number of filters, coupled with the increased service interval, will save operators as much as $2,000 a year on a single 320D2L.

‘DO IT MYSELF’ CUSTOMERSThe second reason Caterpillar wanted to use a mechanical fuel injector on the 320D2L is to reduce servicing complexity, for ‘do it myself’ who want to be able to repair their machines in their own

June 2014

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Launch

workshops, or in the field, without utilising dealer assistence.

They find an electronic fuel injection system harder to repair. And with many contractors in Saudi Arabia possessing large fleets and therefore large servicing operations, some with more than 100 service staff, it’s an important concession. Another result of the reduction in the number of fuel filters, and with the redesign, is that all filters are immediately accessible by technicians.

Maintaining hydraulic perforMance Of course, changing the fuel injection system from a high pressure (1200 bar) system to a low pressure (200 bar) one has major implications for engine power, and ultimately hydraulic flow and machine performance.

The new engine configuration runs at 1700 rpm rather than 1800 rpm, and subsequently power output is reduced too, from 103kW to 98kW (high idle is 1800 rpm, compared with 1980 on the old). But in order that users wouldn’t experience any drop in performance, Caterpillar had to find savings in other places, which it did.

A new shroud design for its hydraulic pump resulted in operational savings of 3.7kW (the new shroud design is present on the 320, 323, 326 and 329D2 models). A modification of the fan blade shape boosted hydraulic power by 1.5kW, and a smaller pilot gear pump was also used. The outcome is similar hydraulic power from less engine power: 84kW at 1700rpm on the new model, compared with 85.2kW for the old.

iMproved fuel efficiencyMechanical injection is less fuel efficient, but this is not so much a factor on smaller engined machines like the 320D2L; where fuel efficiency is a critical requirement, electronic injection is preferred, and

will remain on hydraulic excavator range from the 323D2 and up. But it’s worth noting that the 320D2L achieved a fuel saving of 3%, because of lower engine rpm, all while managing to coax out of the machine very similar hydraulic power.

haMMer return filterThe second major technical improvement for the 320D2L is the introduction of the hammer return filter as a factory fitted standard. With up to 80% of 320Ds in Saudi Arabia being used for hammer applications, and typically hammering for many hours, a return filter, which prevents contamination of the hydraulic fluid from the breaker attachment, was already being fitted ex-factory by some users. How can contamination occur?

There are two ways this can occur: the first being contaminants entering the oil during operation, having made their way into the hammer’s case and then fluid.

Additionally, leaving a breaker in the yard for a length of time can cause dust, sand and other contaminants to enter into the fluid in the attachment, which then enters the machine’s hydraulic oil system when it’s coupled on.

While there is already a return oil filter in the hydraulic system, it’s not designed to filter out large amounts of contaminants, and will quickly become clogged and damaged if there isn’t the additional filter, and contaminants are entering through the breaker.

Alexandre Favero, product application specialist HEX, based in Caterpillar’s Geneva office, who presented on the 320D2L in its introduction to Middle East machinery journalists, made it clear that hydraulic fluid contamination from breaker attachments hasn’t occurred as a result of using Caterpillar breakers, but typically third party, less robust attachments.

June 2014

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Now it’s electricThe old generation of models had a manual priming pump, used to ensure there’s no air in the fuel piping, before initial engine operation and following engine maintenance such as filter changes or injector replacement. But its manual operation adds an element of uncertainty into the equation, since technicians and operators don’t always carry out the full cycle of pre-operational checks. Adding on an electric priming pump removes the possibility of a worker ‘forgetting’ to operate the pump manually, an example of bringing a high-tech solution to solve a low-tech problem.

if it aiN’t broke…Caterpillar hasn’t made any changes to the heavy metal on the new machine – the heavy duty track pads, reinforced boom, and machine body remain the same. It’s the old adage ‘if it ain’t broke don’t fix it’. The 320D has traditionally been sold in its Long configuration, hence the ‘L’ configuration in the 320DL2. A longer machine means more stability, with greater distance from the edge of the machine to the centre of gravity, while a longer track pad means lower ground pressure.

It’s also built with a heavy duty boom, ideal for long life and dealing with the large forces exerted during hammering. And while there was no need to update the body plating, the new generation of machines will be sold with a new cab, and a new switch panel, designed to give operators a clearer overview of basic machine controls, and the panel has a multi-setting engine speed control dial.

Meanwhile a new monitor with 40% larger display gives easier access to machine monitoring and control, and with up to three cameras onboard for enhanced safety.

“Challenges are everywhere. To succeed,you have to be in the hands of the best partners.

Jeddah Tel 012 6877058, Fax 012 6812311 Dammam Tel 013 8176593, Fax 013 8177169 Email [email protected]

Riyadh Tel 011 4950898, Fax 011 2131779 Ext 212Asir Tel 017 2234392, Fax 017 2215651

That’s why, at Abdul Latif Jameel, we relentlessly strive to provide the finest services that go beyond anyone’s expectations”

QUALITY

RELIABILITY DURABILITY

COSTEFFECTIVENESS

OUTSTANDINGAFTER-SALES

SERVICES

ALJ_final.indd 1-2 5/21/14 2:57 PM

June 2014

COnsTRUCTiOn

MiDDLe easT30

Site Visit

Making WavesTakes a tour of the construction site of the Kempinski hotel on The Wave as Gavin Davids reports on this most challenging of projects in Muscat, Oman

COnsTRUCTiOn

MiDDLe easT30 June 2014

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On 13 November, 2013, the foundation stone for the Kempinski Hotel, part of The Wave project, was laid, marking the beginning of construction for one of Oman’s most convoluted hospitality construction

projects. Originally designed between 2009 and 2010, the project was only tendered at the start of 2011 before being put on hold. During that period, the project was sold to nine Omani pension funds operating as a single entity-the Omani Hospitality Company - from its original owner, The Wave.

Further complicating progress on the project was the sheer scale of it. Clocking in at more than 45,000sqm, the Kempinski hotel project is a mammoth undertaking in any circumstances, never mind one with so many stakeholders and vested interests.

The hotel will offer 309 rooms and 77 hotel apartments, in addition to a range of facilities including halls that can accommodate in excess of 750 people. Twelve local and international restaurants and cafes are also being built, not only to cater for hotel guests, but also for residents in the surrounding properties operated by The Wave.

As Peter Willmott, project director for the development says, the building isn’t revolutionary in terms of its design and build. However, because it is one of the largest hospitality projects in Oman, it comes with added pressures. Having worked for no less than three different organisations on the project, Willmott is perhaps the perfect person to head up the Kempinski site, having been involved initially with The Wave development team and then as project director for Confluence. With that organisation evolving into Faithful + Gould, he says that it is time for the project to begin picking up a head of steam.

“We (F+G) have a project management and development management role on the project. At the moment, there are five staff associated with the project. We’ve got myself as project director. We’ve got a full time project manager who’s also managing the staff accommodation project as well – which

$ 220.77mProject value

$129.8mConstruction contract

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 31

On 13 November, 2013, the foundation stone for the Kempinski Hotel, part of The Wave project, was laid, marking the beginning of construction for one of Oman’s most convoluted hospitality construction

projects. Originally designed between 2009 and 2010, the project was only tendered at the start of 2011 before being put on hold. During that period, the project was sold to nine Omani pension funds operating as a single entity-the Omani Hospitality Company - from its original owner, The Wave.

Further complicating progress on the project was the sheer scale of it. Clocking in at more than 45,000sqm, the Kempinski hotel project is a mammoth undertaking in any circumstances, never mind one with so many stakeholders and vested interests.

The hotel will offer 309 rooms and 77 hotel apartments, in addition to a range of facilities including halls that can accommodate in excess of 750 people. Twelve local and international restaurants and cafes are also being built, not only to cater for hotel guests, but also for residents in the surrounding properties operated by The Wave.

As Peter Willmott, project director for the development says, the building isn’t revolutionary in terms of its design and build. However, because it is one of the largest hospitality projects in Oman, it comes with added pressures. Having worked for no less than three different organisations on the project, Willmott is perhaps the perfect person to head up the Kempinski site, having been involved initially with The Wave development team and then as project director for Confluence. With that organisation evolving into Faithful + Gould, he says that it is time for the project to begin picking up a head of steam.

“We (F+G) have a project management and development management role on the project. At the moment, there are five staff associated with the project. We’ve got myself as project director. We’ve got a full time project manager who’s also managing the staff accommodation project as well – which

$ 220.77mProject value

$129.8mConstruction contract

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST32

Site Visit

is for 600 staff. Then we’ve got a full time project manager who is managing the delivery with me, and we’ve got a document controller and a part time planner who comes in when needed,” he outlines.

As Willmott touches upon, part of his job as project director is to manage all the associated facets of the site. This includes working with the contractor, Carillion Alawi, and the consultants, WSP and Woods Bagot.

“We’re tracking slightly behind schedule at the moment, but that’s mainly due to one of the value engineering solutions being to redesign the frame to a post-tensioned solution. So there’s been some delays that weren’t projected in getting that design complete and approved. But we still aim to maintain those completion dates,” Willmott asserts.

“There’s three working fronts which are being done. One is the hotel apartments, then you’ve got two shifts working on the hotel, there are ten large concrete pours only in the foundation slab. There’s probably 50,000m3 of concrete to go into the project. There are quite a large amount of resources that are required.”

“Post-tensioning will reduce the amount of steel tonnage, it’s probably just under 20,000tons of reinforcing steel, but we’ve got a number of different structural solutions,” he adds.

“There’s what can be described as a lantern design for the ballroom, that’s in structural steel with a concrete and metal roof. Then we’ve got traditional cast in-situ foundations and slabs for that element. You’ve got post-tensioning for the main repetitive blocks,” he adds.

“Most of the other stuff wasn’t a change in the product, it was just a re-specification. We value-engineered sanitary-ware and saved $544,000.”

Wilmott points out that because the project has been around since 2011, the supply chain was priced according to those prices.

“The supply chain was a bit reluctant to reengage and give the best price for the project because it’s been around for so long. Post getting a letter of intent out and the project actually being tangible again, we could go sit with specific suppliers who maybe weren’t that interested in giving the best price possible at the time of tender. We took about $176.9 million off in terms of value engineering,” he reveals.

While value engineering understandably took up a

lot of the project team’s time, there were a number of other concerns unique to Oman that have conspired to delay the project.

One such issue was making sure that the height of the buildings did not exceed set limits. “Everything in Oman is low-rise,” Willmott says. “(Six storeys) is within three or four meters of the maximum height because we’re within range of the radar for the airport.”

Another issue has been the difficulty in sourcing labour, with Willmott pointing out that the current visa situation in Oman needs to be addressed due to the difficulty expatriate workers face when it comes to getting into the country.

With the project’s peak workforce expected to be in the thousands, this is an issue that needs to be urgently addressed before any major construction projects get started.

“Right now, there’s probably around 500 workers on site, which doesn’t look like many because it’s so big. I’d imagine that it’ll be between 2,000 and 3,000 at peak.”

However, this presents a whole other set of complications due to the construction site being

right next to a high-end residential area that expects a certain level of serenity, something that would be difficult to achieve with 2,000 labourers working from dawn to dusk.

“We’re in a residential area so controlling noise and disturbance to surrounding residents is

important. Right now, it’s not at its nosiest, but it’s going to restrict working hours because the master developer has rules that say you’re not allowed to work (during certain hours). This puts more stress on the programme, because if you lose time, you find it difficult to catch up.”

So how feasible is the construction completion date of September 2015, given the numerous restrictions the team faces? Despite the very tight schedule, Willmott remains relatively confident the project will continue smoothly, even with the looming Ramadan schedule that will be enforced in summer.

Owned by the Omani Hospitality Co, the Kempinski hotel is expected to create 600 direct jobs; as well as other economic direct and indirect returns.

“The whole project is a value added to the

growing tourism sector in Oman,” said Shaikh Rashid bin Saif al Saadi, Chairman of OHC.

The hotel is to be operated and managed by Kempinski Hotels.

Oman National Bank,

Oman Arab Bank and Bank Sohar signed agreements with OHC to provide finance for the project.

OHC was established with the objective of developing hospitality related projects in Oman.

The shareholders of OHC, which include OBIC, National Investment Funds Co (NIFCO) and several Omani pension funds, are focused on developing projects that will support the sultanate’s objective of developing the tourism sector.

A job creator

“WE’vE gOT TRADITIOnAl CAST In-SITu fOunDATIOnS AnD SlABS fOR THAT ElEMEnT.”

03332 Terex Middle East Ad 300x240.indd 1 29/01/2014 12:30

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INTRODUCING THE WORLD’S TALLEST SELF-PROPELLED BOOM LIFT. The new 1850SJ has more reach, better stability and a larger work envelope than any lift in its class. Get up to 19 stories of working height and an innovative chassis that can be extended front and back. Featuring 1,000 lb/500 lb platform capacity, the 1850SJ is the most powerful boom in the industry. Transport with ease in a regular size trailer - no oversized load permit needed. Learn more at www.jlg.com/en/1850sj-1.

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JLG Industries | JAFZA View | PO Box 262728 | LB 19, 20th Floor, Office 05 | Jebel Ali | Dubai | [email protected]

REACHING OUT | 1850SJ Telescopic Boom Lift

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14010043_JLG_ADV_1850SJ_240x300_ENG_ME_1905.indd 1 12/05/14 09:08

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 35

“It’s still feasible for now,” he asserts. “Obviously when you reach the summer months, you’ll have to do concreting works at night anyway because you can’t pour concrete in the heat.

“Most sites switch to nights, but then we may have problems switching to nights because the residential population here is 50% Omani and 50% expatriate. So you’ve got half the population up at night and the other half of the population up during the day time! That’s a challenge we’re going to have to get through.”

“During the summer and Ramadan periods, you can lose a lot of time if you do not work those alternative hours, so what we’ve done is to work closely with the immediate surrounding residents, with community liaison officers, to make sure we provide bulletins and regular updates on construction. That’ll need to be further increased as work progresses and has the potential to further impact on their environment,” Willmott explains.

With the hotel being built on the beachfront, Willmott says that special precautions have had to be taken to ensure that the site is dewatered properly.

“Groundwork was done as an early works package. There are no piles. What we did was ground improvement. This is because the ground is capable of dealing with supporting the buildings without

“We’Re GOInG TO have fOuR TOWeR cRaneS. TheRe aRe ThRee up aT The MOMenT. They’ll be SuppORTeD by MObIle cRaneS.”

Site visit

piles,” he explains. “We’re going to have four tower cranes. There

are three up at the moment. They’ll be supported by mobile cranes, which will be used to deal with the difficult areas. There’s obviously excavators and dewatering systems on there now. all the dewatering is going into the sea. There’s quite a lot of water actually, because you’re almost trying to dewater the sea!”

“There’s an extra-robust tanking system in the basement because half the basement will be in the water table constantly, if the dewatering is switched off. That’s another challenge in design, because you ideally don’t want to be placing concrete in water as water always finds its way through. So we’ve got a double barrier system in the basement to deal with any potential ingress. That’s one of the challenges that you get building on the beach. This area also has a lot of standing water everywhere because when it rains it doesn’t go anywhere because the water table is so high in this area,” he explains.

“a number of residences here have a half-basement to avoid that (problem). They stick half out of the ground, that’s why their parking lots are so short. If you actually go into the water table, it pushes your costs up a lot. We have tried to keep a lot of the building raised up, to keep out of the water table, but then we couldn’t get the parking in. With the height restrictions, you have to get a certain amount into the basement, and that was done earlier on and we’ve moved it up as far as possible,” the project director asserts.

With the amount of dewatering going onsite, Willmott is quick to point out that there are stringent tests in place for the water that is being pumped back into the sea. This is one more example of how seriously the Sultanate is taking its responsibilities towards environmental laws and further indication to the importance being afforded to this hospitality project, which is set to become a beacon for the potential of Oman as a eco-tourism destination for both the Gcc and the international market.

2850 GB

Putzmeister Concrete Pumps GmbH congratulates Al Ghurair Construction – Readymix LLC of beingthe first customer in the UAE of the New Generation truck-mounted concrete pump BSF 56-5.16 H.Congratulations! The first BSF 56-5.16 H arrives in the UAE!

Putzmeister Concrete Pumps GmbH 72631 Aichtal · Germany · www.putzmeister.com

Putzmeister Middle East Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) · Swiss Tower Office 1403 · P.O. Box 262657 · Dubai, U.A.E. Tel: +971 (0) 4 454 27 83 · Fax: +971 (0) 4 454 27 82www.putzmeister-me.com

2850_GB_480_300_al_ghurair.indd 1 20.05.2014 15:13:44

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 39

Raw powerProduct Focus

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW.

page42 STEER IT UP Bobcat reveals its follow-up to the E130.

page 39 BACK TO THE

BASICS Construction Machinery ME’s

guide to purchasing the moving toolbox that is the backhoe loader.

page 40 A MODERN MARBLE New Holland takes a slice out of the backhoe playbook with its marble attachment.

page 52 SPREAD OUT

The second part in Stian Overdahl’s look at road construction.

page 56 BACK TO THE ROOTS Ousama Fansa of Roots Group talks about the Saudi Arabian market.

page48 LOAD IT UP CMME looks at wheel loaders launched in the last year.

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST40

Raw Power

Why get it?HigH sulpHur suitableeuropean spec

C aterpillar has launched a new version of its popular 320D L hydraulic excavator, the 320D L Series 2, which has been redesigned to suit the working conditions in Saudi Arabia.

The new excavator features mechanical fuel injection, rather than electric, to cope with the high-sulphur diesel fuel. The fuel injection system means that less fuel filters are used, and those that are have extended life, while the engine system is also easier to repair for contractors in the field and in their workshops. Machine performance has not been affected, due to design improvements, says Caterpillar, and the new design will be rolled out across the 3-D excavator line.

The new machine was launched at an event hosted by Zahid Tractor, Caterpillar dealer for Saudi Arabia, and one of the largest sellers of ‘big yellow’ in the world. The new machines will be available to other LRCs (less regulated markets) where fuel quality is an issue, including in the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

But in announcing the new machine, Zahid said that feedback from Saudi customers had been an important factor in the machine’s design, and that the company had had signficant influence over the development process. The high-sulphur fuel used in Saudi Arabia meant that customers were having to change fuel filters monthly, adding up to a high cost.

The 320D is one of the most popular excavators in the Saudi market, and in an overwhelming number of applications is used with a breaker. The 320D2L features a factory fitted hammer return filter, to prevent contamination of the oil system. The ‘L’ designates that the excavator is built with a longer tracked body, which improves stability during hammering.

Other technical features include an electric priming pump (rather than manual), improved hydraulic pump efficiency thanks to a new shroud design, and an updated cab with a new monitor, based on the European spec E-series.

While the electronic fuel injection system uses 1200 BAR pressure, and four fuel filters, the mechanical injection system uses only 200 BAR, and has only two fuel filters, with longer service life and better accessibility.

The engine runs at 1700rpm (rather than 1800), but manages to achieve similar hydraulic power due to the accompanying design improvements. The lower rpm engine means a fuel consumption decrease of 3%.

Alexandre Favero, product application specialist for Caterpillar, says that while the electronic injection system is more fuel efficient than mechanical, this is not as signficant for an engine of the 3-series excavator, as it would be for a larger machine.

SpecificationS:• engine Model: CatC7.1• engine power: 104kW• Maximum operating Weight: 21,750kg• Maximum Digging Depth (reach boom): 6660mm• Bucket digging force: 148kN• Stick digging force: 120kN

Cat’s nod to saudi Customers

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 41

New Holland has teamed up with an Italian marble-cutting tool specialist to produce a chain cutting solution for the marble quarrying industry.

A New Holland Construction B100C backhoe

New HollaNd uNveils New marble star

wHy get it?Reduced woRktime SafeR uSage

loader was fitted with a support arm and chain cutter, mounted in the place of the backhoe, offering a simple and fast method for cutting blocks of marble.

The chain cutter was built by Benetti Macchine SpA, based in Carrara and who specialise in supplying marble-cutting machines. Benettie worked in collaboration with the New Holland Construction Engineering division in Lecce, which has the capability to produce bespoke machines, based on requests from its customers, for niche sectors.

Fitting a backhoe loader with a chain cutter is

International construction equipment Chicago Pneumatic has launched a new compact and heavy duty CPLT H5 portable light tower, featuring a hydraulic mast, which is fully CE compliant for use in European markets.

Commenting on the launch, Chicago Pneumatic Light Tower Product Marketing Manager, Sergio Salvador said: “Heavy-duty construction means this compact unit is capable of performing in

CHiCago PNeumatiC’s ComPaCt ligHt tower

sPeCifiCatioNs: • lamps: x4 • luminosity: 360,000 lumens• duration: 55 hours• maximum height: 9m• external power input: 230VAC

sPeCifiCatioNs• bucket capacity: up to 1m3

• engine power: 72kW• max digging depth: 5.8m• operating weight: 8.27t

an alternative to diamond wire cutting machines, normally used to cut large blocks of marble (or “bench walls”). However, the New Holland solution offers greater safety and a considerable reduction in working time.

“This machine was created to meet the needs of our customers, who know better than anyone how to improve their business and what machines are required to best achieve it, said Federico Benetti, owner of Bennetti Maccine.

“What they were missing until now, was a machine that could operate autonomously in the quarry, and cut blocks of marble in situ. To accomodate this requirement we explored the idea of combining cutting equipment with a backhoe loader.”

The prototype underwent several months of vigorous testing in the Carrara marble quarries, in which the most expert operators in marble extraction made the machine work at full speed and for long periods. The first sales have been to customers in Portugal.

wHy get it?RobuSt deSignfull Rotation

even the most demanding environments. It’s also incredibly easy to use, thanks to a hydraulic mast that provides for quick setup, and a special control panel that simplifies operation and maintenance. Plus, the inclusion of highly-efficient metal halide technology provides for superior lighting performance.”

The CPLT H5 features a vertical mast that extends to a maximum height of 9 m and rotates 340º, with hydraulic operation making it fast and easy for operators to position light when and where they need it. The new light tower is powered by a Kubota engine and features four 1000W metal halide lamps, which require less power and provide for a total luminosity of 360,000 lumens.

Significantly, the CPLT H5 is equipped with an easy-to-use and unique digital control panel, called LC 1003. Specifically designed for light towers with lamp sequencing, the LC 1003 controller allows operators to start lamps one by one, which helps avoid the risk of lamp failure and improves reliability. The inclusion of this independent control panel outside the main cubicle allows the operator to start the machine without any contact with the engine, enhancing safety. In addition, the user-friendly CPLT H5

includes lamp failure detection and a weekly timer that can schedule up to 8 lighting events. Other key features include an emergency stop, working mode selector, and IP67 outlet socket.

Thanks to its 110-litre fuel tank, the CPLT H5 is capable of operating for up to 55 hours without refueling.

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST42

Raw Power

Bobcat has launched the new generation S450 skid-steer loader, building on the success of the S130 model it replaces, by combining the advantages offered by a truly compact loader with many of the new features and improvements found on the larger Bobcat new generation models.

As well as its compactness, the S450 skid-steer loader can be supplied with a comprehensive choice of 48 different product families of approved attachments (with more to come), offering solutions for a very wide range

of applications and providing a perfect illustration of the Bobcat Tool Carrier concept common to all Bobcat compact loaders.

Like the larger models, the S450 skid-steer loader offers significantly improved comfort and visibility to allow for greater control and accuracy in tight working spaces. In addition, for the first time in a skid-steer loader model in this size class, the S450 loader is supplied with a fully pressurised cab with air-conditioning as an option. Other key features include increased hydraulic performance and efficiency; a new tailgate design; integrated rear bumper and enhanced serviceability.

The new S450 cab is based on that in the larger Bobcat loaders and has been cleverly designed to maintain the loader’s compact size whilst still providing the operator with better comfort and control. The internal area of the cab has been increased by 10% compared to the S130 model, resulting in more space around

the operator. Moving the cab side windows to the outside of the cab has contributed to the increase in interior space and has also made them easier to clean. In addition, the threshold of the cab door has been lowered and the size of the cab door opening has been increased, making it easier for operators to enter and exit the cab.

Bobcat’s best-in-class cab pressurisation system is based on a one-piece seal that goes all the way around the door to minimise dirt and dust.

Powerscreen, one of the world’s leading providers of mobile crushing and screening equipment, will be launching the new Powerscreen Powertrak 750 on stand L10 at Hillhead, the UK industry institution that takes place later this month.

The Powertrak 750 screen is a multipurpose scalping machine, robustly constructed, and geared towards heavy duty scalping in applications such as blasted rock, overburden and C&D. The lively screening action lends itself equally as well to fine screening applications with

materials such as crusher run and topsoil.

The Powertrak 750 screen features a Deutz D914 engine as standard, but can also be supplied with a fuel efficient Stage IV Final compliant Caterpillar C3.4 engine. With a vibrating grid feed-in width of 4.4m (14’ 6”) the machine can easily be fed with an excavator, loading shovel or grab. This coupled with its compact, sleek design and ease of movement makes the Powertrak 750 screener the ultimate choice for contractors, quarry operators and recycling customers.

The portable compressor range from Doosan Portable Power is one of the most comprehensive for the Middle East market, covering the full range of compressed air applications from construction, rental, utilities and manufacturing to waterwell drilling and the oil and gas industry, with free air deliveries from 185 to 1500 cfm (5.0 to 42.5 m3/min) at output pressures from 100 to 500 psig (7 to 35 bar).

DooSan CoMPrESSorS THaT TaKES THE PrESSUrE

BoBCaT LaUnCHES nEW S450 SKID-STEEr LoaDEr

WHy gET IT?Increased vIsIbIlItyeasIer to servIce

PoWErSCrEEn UnVEILS nEW SCaLPIng SCrEEn aT HILLHEaD

WHy gET THEM?tIer 2 modelsHot clImate suItable

Providing a free air delivery of 375 cfm (10.6 m³/min) at 125 psig (8.6 bar), the XP375WCU-T2 compressor features a Tier 2 Cummins mechanically controlled engine particularly suited to Middle East fuel quality levels and offering easy operation and maintenance. again the XP375WCU-T2 model has been specially designed for the Middle East climate but also features a reliable, heavy duty air intake filtration system allowing it to cope easily with the very dusty environment. The XP375WCU-T2 compressor is ideal for sand blasting operations.

Providing a free air delivery of 375 cfm (10.6 m³/min) at 125 psig (8.6 bar), the XP375WCU-T2 compressor features a Tier 2 Cummins mechanically controlled engine particularly suited to Middle East fuel quality levels and offering easy operation and maintenance. again the XP375WCU-T2 model has been specially designed for the Middle East climate but also features a

SPECIFICaTIonS (XP375WCU-T2):• Free air delivery: 375 cfm (10.6 m³/min) • Pressure: 125 psig (8.6 bar),• Engine: Tier 2 Cummins• Control: mechanical

SPECIFICaTIonS• rated operating capacity:

608 kg• Tipping load: 1215kg• operating weight: 2240kg• Dump Height: 2157mm• Max travel speed (low range):

11.4km/h• Max travel speed (high range

– option): 14.8 km/h• Engine Power: 36.4kW @

2800rpm

reliable, heavy duty air intake filtration system allowing it to cope easily with the very dusty environment. The XP375WCU-T2 compressor is ideal for sand blasting operations. For larger air flows of 825 cfm (23.3 m³/min) at an output pressure of 125 psig (8.6 bar), the mid range 9/235WCU-T2 compressor also features a Tier 2 Cummins mechanically controlled engine as well as a high ambient temperature (52 oC) package/cool box air flow system. For larger air flows of 825 cfm (23.3 m³/min) at an output pressure of 125 psig (8.6 bar), the mid range 9/235WCU-T2 compressor also features a Tier 2 Cummins engine.

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST42

Raw Power

Bobcat has launched the new generation S450 skid-steer loader, building on the success of the S130 model it replaces, by combining the advantages offered by a truly compact loader with many of the new features and improvements found on the larger Bobcat new generation models.

As well as its compactness, the S450 skid-steer loader can be supplied with a comprehensive choice of 48 different product families of approved attachments (with more to come), offering solutions for a very wide range

of applications and providing a perfect illustration of the Bobcat Tool Carrier concept common to all Bobcat compact loaders.

Like the larger models, the S450 skid-steer loader offers significantly improved comfort and visibility to allow for greater control and accuracy in tight working spaces. In addition, for the first time in a skid-steer loader model in this size class, the S450 loader is supplied with a fully pressurised cab with air-conditioning as an option. Other key features include increased hydraulic performance and efficiency; a new tailgate design; integrated rear bumper and enhanced serviceability.

The new S450 cab is based on that in the larger Bobcat loaders and has been cleverly designed to maintain the loader’s compact size whilst still providing the operator with better comfort and control. The internal area of the cab has been increased by 10% compared to the S130 model, resulting in more space around

the operator. Moving the cab side windows to the outside of the cab has contributed to the increase in interior space and has also made them easier to clean. In addition, the threshold of the cab door has been lowered and the size of the cab door opening has been increased, making it easier for operators to enter and exit the cab.

Bobcat’s best-in-class cab pressurisation system is based on a one-piece seal that goes all the way around the door to minimise dirt and dust.

Powerscreen, one of the world’s leading providers of mobile crushing and screening equipment, will be launching the new Powerscreen Powertrak 750 on stand L10 at Hillhead, the UK industry institution that takes place later this month.

The Powertrak 750 screen is a multipurpose scalping machine, robustly constructed, and geared towards heavy duty scalping in applications such as blasted rock, overburden and C&D. The lively screening action lends itself equally as well to fine screening applications with

materials such as crusher run and topsoil.

The Powertrak 750 screen features a Deutz D914 engine as standard, but can also be supplied with a fuel efficient Stage IV Final compliant Caterpillar C3.4 engine. With a vibrating grid feed-in width of 4.4m (14’ 6”) the machine can easily be fed with an excavator, loading shovel or grab. This coupled with its compact, sleek design and ease of movement makes the Powertrak 750 screener the ultimate choice for contractors, quarry operators and recycling customers.

The portable compressor range from Doosan Portable Power is one of the most comprehensive for the Middle East market, covering the full range of compressed air applications from construction, rental, utilities and manufacturing to waterwell drilling and the oil and gas industry, with free air deliveries from 185 to 1500 cfm (5.0 to 42.5 m3/min) at output pressures from 100 to 500 psig (7 to 35 bar).

DooSan CoMPrESSorS THaT TaKES THE PrESSUrE

BoBCaT LaUnCHES nEW S450 SKID-STEEr LoaDEr

WHy gET IT?Increased vIsIbIlItyeasIer to servIce

PoWErSCrEEn UnVEILS nEW SCaLPIng SCrEEn aT HILLHEaD

WHy gET THEM?tIer 2 modelsHot clImate suItable

Providing a free air delivery of 375 cfm (10.6 m³/min) at 125 psig (8.6 bar), the XP375WCU-T2 compressor features a Tier 2 Cummins mechanically controlled engine particularly suited to Middle East fuel quality levels and offering easy operation and maintenance. again the XP375WCU-T2 model has been specially designed for the Middle East climate but also features a reliable, heavy duty air intake filtration system allowing it to cope easily with the very dusty environment. The XP375WCU-T2 compressor is ideal for sand blasting operations.

Providing a free air delivery of 375 cfm (10.6 m³/min) at 125 psig (8.6 bar), the XP375WCU-T2 compressor features a Tier 2 Cummins mechanically controlled engine particularly suited to Middle East fuel quality levels and offering easy operation and maintenance. again the XP375WCU-T2 model has been specially designed for the Middle East climate but also features a

SPECIFICaTIonS (XP375WCU-T2):• Free air delivery: 375 cfm (10.6 m³/min) • Pressure: 125 psig (8.6 bar),• Engine: Tier 2 Cummins• Control: mechanical

SPECIFICaTIonS• rated operating capacity:

608 kg• Tipping load: 1215kg• operating weight: 2240kg• Dump Height: 2157mm• Max travel speed (low range):

11.4km/h• Max travel speed (high range

– option): 14.8 km/h• Engine Power: 36.4kW @

2800rpm

reliable, heavy duty air intake filtration system allowing it to cope easily with the very dusty environment. The XP375WCU-T2 compressor is ideal for sand blasting operations. For larger air flows of 825 cfm (23.3 m³/min) at an output pressure of 125 psig (8.6 bar), the mid range 9/235WCU-T2 compressor also features a Tier 2 Cummins mechanically controlled engine as well as a high ambient temperature (52 oC) package/cool box air flow system. For larger air flows of 825 cfm (23.3 m³/min) at an output pressure of 125 psig (8.6 bar), the mid range 9/235WCU-T2 compressor also features a Tier 2 Cummins engine.

More than lifting

Haulotte range

BENEFITS your business

SERVICE SOLUTIONS

TECHNICAL SUPPORT

TRAINING

SPARE PARTS

Close to you, worldwideHAULOTTE MIDDLE EAST FZE - PO BOX 293881 - DUBAI AIRPORT FREE ZONE - DUBAI - UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Tel. : +971 (0)4 299 77 35 - [email protected]

www.haulotte.ae

November 2013

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST48

Ten Tips

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 45

AdvAncements in bAckhoe-loAder controls hAve increAsed the options AvAilAble. to

mAke the best choice for your needs, you first must understAnd whAt’s AvAilAble

And the AdvAntAges And drAwbAcks of eAch system.

TAKE CONTROL OF OPTIONS

Ten Tips

STAy IN ThE mIddLE A backhoe loader is the machine to go to if the job is medium-sized and requires the flexibility of a single piece of equipment able to do many different kinds of work.

SIzE mATTERS Size is an important consideration. digging depth can range anywhere

from nine to over sixteen feet, with larger models again costing

more. hydraulic tools do not depend on the engine

for power.

STAyINg ATTAChEd many backhoe loaders are designed so that the tool attachments can be switched out for other tools. Popular alternative attachments include augers, crushers, grinders, snow plows, and pallet forks.

mAKE yOuRSELF COmFORTAbLE Less experienced backhoe operators who may have previously worked on excavators, for example, will have a different feel for the controls than the more experienced operator who may choose a more ergonomic style of operation.

Allow CMME to make sure your purchasing is all back to front

Top 10Guide to buying

backhoes

KEEP yOuR ShOES ONTo help prevent rollovers, many backhoe loaders have a pair of stabilizing legs at the back of the machine. These legs also take pressure off the wheels, so extending wheel-life. Stabilising legs can

UAE&OMAN SANY UAE

+96522259555 -6060 [email protected]

UAE&OMAN SANY UAE

+96522259555 -6060 [email protected]

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 47

New vs Old Backhoe loaders can be bought new or used. Buying used will be cheaper upfront, but used machines will have higher maintenance costs and a shorter working life. Older models will also have differ-ent styles of controls.

l

TOOl BOX ON wHeels Backhoe loaders can Be expensive, But they will earn their keep in

increased productivity. a single Backhoe loader will certainly Be

cheaper than Buying all of the more specialized machines that would

Be needed otherwise.

AlwAys sTAy prOTecTed wear hearing and head protection should be

a given but cMMe has observe plenty of sites where this is not the case. we must do better.

GeT THe NAMe riGHT Although backhoes are mounted on the back of a backhoe loader that is not where the name comes from. instead, the name refers to the backwards scooping motion of the bucket.

Ten Tips

THe MulTi-TAsker Backhoe are the go-to machines for the projects where anything could come up, whether that’s digging a trench or plowing snow. This

is why backhoe loaders are pretty much every-

where.

up TO THe TAsk The power of both tools is important to consider, especially as the backhoe and the loader will not be of equal strength. Be sure that the machine is ca-pable of the work it will be required to do.

June 2014

ConsTrUCTIon

MIddle easT48

Special Feature

Wheel loadersTake a load onCMME scoops up the latest launches in wheel loaders to help you put together your bucket list

For those with access to lower sulphur fuel, Liebherr exhibited the L 576 wheel loader with the latest engine from the generation complying with IIIB /Tier 4i exhaust emission limits at the 2013 Komatek. The version exhibited has a 4.5 m3 rock shovel with delta-pattern cutting edge and ESCO V33 AD teeth and segments. The standard L 576 model has a service weight of 24,450 kg and a maximum tipping load of 17,500 kg. The Liebherr 6-cylinder diesel engine has a rated output of 205 kW

(279 hp). The machine exhibited

at the Komatek is equipped with a rear-end underride guard and a TOP AIR first-stage dust trap.

The engine output of the L 576 has been increased, and all the large new-generation machines have an optimised tipping load limit that further improves productivity and stability.

In addition to the Z-bar linkage for standard operating tasks, Liebherr supplies industrial lift arm. No other manufacturer offers both lift arm versions

in every machine category at no extra cost.

Liebherr continues to use hydrostatic Drive concept together with another Liebherr development: Liebherr Power Efficiency (LPE) - an electronic mapped-characteristic control system. This increases the machine’s handling power and keeps fuel consumption to a minimum. Compared with other machines in the same size category, the innovative driveline concept cuts fuel consumption by as much as 25%. Less fuel is needed

for the same performance, and tyre and brake wear are reduced.

The new-generation diesel engines are now even more environmentally friendly, with many other improvements, too: precision common-rail fuel injection optimises the combustion process and reduces pollutant emissions. Exhaust emission control is by means of a diesel oxidating catalytic converter combined with a diesel particulate filter. In most situations, this filter can be actively regenerated by

From the upper tier

June 2014

ConsTrUCTIon

MIddle easT48

Special Feature

Wheel loadersTake a load onCMME scoops up the latest launches in wheel loaders to help you put together your bucket list

For those with access to lower sulphur fuel, Liebherr exhibited the L 576 wheel loader with the latest engine from the generation complying with IIIB /Tier 4i exhaust emission limits at the 2013 Komatek. The version exhibited has a 4.5 m3 rock shovel with delta-pattern cutting edge and ESCO V33 AD teeth and segments. The standard L 576 model has a service weight of 24,450 kg and a maximum tipping load of 17,500 kg. The Liebherr 6-cylinder diesel engine has a rated output of 205 kW

(279 hp). The machine exhibited

at the Komatek is equipped with a rear-end underride guard and a TOP AIR first-stage dust trap.

The engine output of the L 576 has been increased, and all the large new-generation machines have an optimised tipping load limit that further improves productivity and stability.

In addition to the Z-bar linkage for standard operating tasks, Liebherr supplies industrial lift arm. No other manufacturer offers both lift arm versions

in every machine category at no extra cost.

Liebherr continues to use hydrostatic Drive concept together with another Liebherr development: Liebherr Power Efficiency (LPE) - an electronic mapped-characteristic control system. This increases the machine’s handling power and keeps fuel consumption to a minimum. Compared with other machines in the same size category, the innovative driveline concept cuts fuel consumption by as much as 25%. Less fuel is needed

for the same performance, and tyre and brake wear are reduced.

The new-generation diesel engines are now even more environmentally friendly, with many other improvements, too: precision common-rail fuel injection optimises the combustion process and reduces pollutant emissions. Exhaust emission control is by means of a diesel oxidating catalytic converter combined with a diesel particulate filter. In most situations, this filter can be actively regenerated by

From the upper tier

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 49

With 2014 being a ConExpo year, news of new loaders for Tier-2 markets has been thin on the ground in the first half of 2014 however there are many out there that worth your consideration if you

are looking to secure earthmoving or ground work contracts.

The Bauma Africa show held in the South African city of Johannesburg last September saw a number of new launches that would require little adjustment to get working in the Middle East. While unveiling its earthmoving equipment for the African market, China’s Shantui revealed its update to its SL60W range with the launch of its dash-3 variant.

“The Shantui SL60W-3 wheel loader is powered by a Cummins engine, and this unit has an operating weight of 21 t and a 4 m³ bucket capacity,” Dylan Chicken, Shantui Equipment Southern Africa director and vice GM for Shandong Shantui Construction Machinery Import & Export stated. “Africa, which holds unlimited potential for growth opportunities, is a strategic market for Shantui and this is clearly evident in three of the company’s ten global subsidiaries being located on the continent.”

Fellow Chinese manufacturer and Volvo partner SDLG also showed a broad range of equipment at Bauma’s first expedition to Africa.

SDLG took the opportunity to highlight its wheel loader range. The company showed the 11t LG938L, designed for optimum break-out force to ensure a full bucket load with every cycle; and the 17t L958L, which features a ZF powershift transmission with single lever control for easy operation. Also on the stand at Bauma was the 24t LG978L – the largest in the range – with a bucket capacity of 4.2m3.

This unit drew a lot of interest from visitors working in South Africa’s re-handling industry claimed Wang Xiaohui, head of export sales of SDLG.

For quarrying applications Cat’s 986H is arguably the best in its class. Designed especially for quarry applications—loading both on-highway and off-highway trucks and handling load-and-carry tasks—is a strong, productive machine that is easy to operate and easy to maintain. With bucket capacities ranging from 5.3 to 6.1 m3 (7 to 8 cubic yards), the 305kW (409-horsepower) 986H features a power train with proven Cat components, a powerful and efficient load-sensing hydraulic system, heavy duty frames and loader linkage, and a safe, comfortable operator station. The 986H is engineered to deliver durable performance at a low cost per tonne.

Using solid steel lift arms designed to absorb loading stress, the 986H Z-bar-type loader linkage generates powerful digging and lifting forces and provides excellent visibility to the bucket cutting edge and surrounding work area. Lift arms are available in both standard-lift and high-lift configurations to accommodate a range of haul trucks.

Strength built into the 986H major structures—a full-box-section rear frame fabricated to resist torsional shock and twisting forces, cast axle-mounting pads, and heavy duty steering cylinder mounts—ensures durability through multiple machine life cycles. The 986H also uses Cat Performance Series buckets for fast, consistent loads, and a quick coupler is available.

The Cat C15 engine uses reliable mechanically actuated electronic unit injectors that precisely control fuel delivery for optimum performance and economy in all situations. The 4F/3R Cat power-shift transmission has specially heat-treated shafts and gears for superior durability, and electronically controlled, heavy-duty clutch packs deliver smooth, consistent shifts. A variable displacement pump powers the 986H implement hydraulics and delivers only the volume of flow required at the cylinders, resulting in fuel savings and reduced heat.

Intuitive, low-effort controls allow operators to be immediately productive with the 986H, and a programmable lift kickout speeds loading cycles. An angled ladder provides easy access to the cab, and the Cat Comfort Series III seat provides air-suspension, six-way adjustment and optional heat. The cab is pressurized with filtered air, and automatic controls

“THE TIER 4 MoDEL GAInED A 10% InCREASE In FUEL EConoMy WITH THE EnGInE’S SELECTIVE CATALyTIC REDUCTIon (SCR) TECHnoLoGy.”

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST50

Special Feature

different engine speeds and gear steps according to the working mode engaged. With the ‘Power-Up’ function, the operator can manually adjust to the next highest working mode by applying a full stroke of the accelerator pedal. With this function, the operator can travel in moderate NORMAL mode and switch to POWER mode when it is really needed, such as when taking material from a pile. This capability helps to reduce fuel consumption. The ECO Bar provides information in real-time about fuel consumption in relation to machine performance, allowing the operator to select the driving mode for the best fuel efficiency.

The operator can set a password for machine start. There is also a new Auto Idle feature which, when activated, reduces engine speed by about 200 RPM after 10 seconds if there is no machine movement. Auto Idle is ideal for applications with long waiting times, such as truck loading and lowers fuel consumption significantly.

The new ZF transmission improves the transfer of power from the engine to the wheels and contributes significantly to the overall reduction in fuel consumption. The new transmission provides better response and acceleration, especially on slopes. Engine speed variation is less thanks to smaller gear steps, and lower engine speed throughout the whole drive range reduces fuel consumption. Thanks to higher shift quality, noise levels are lower while driving performance and productivity have been increased. A 5-gear transmission with torque convertor lock up is available as an option.

Case’s 921F has been available for a while but it recently like other major manufacturers, Case has

maintain cab temperature. The Cat monitoring system provides a digital readout of critical machine parameters, and an optional rearview camera system is available.

For added safety, a roll-over protection system (ROPS) and falling objects protection system (FOPS) are integral aspects of the cab design. Also, service walkways have non-skid surfaces, and a convenient windshield cleaning platform facilitates access to cab glass.

The 986H is designed to ease routine maintenance, with ground level or platform access to service points, including a centralized grease bank for lubricating linkage pins and remote pressure taps for power train components. A ground level electrical service panel includes an emergency engine shutdown switch, battery disconnect switch and circuit breakers.

2013 also saw Doosan Infracore Construction Equipment launch its new generation DL550 wheel loader, the top-of-the-range model in the company’s new family of wheel loaders intended for markets in the Middle East and Africa. With a bucket capacity of 5.4 m3, the DL550 wheel loader is designed to meet a wide range of material-handling needs from loading and transporting granular material (such as sand and gravel) to industrial, mining and quarrying applications.

A key feature of the new DL550 wheel loader is the Tier-2 12.7l Scania DC13 turbo-charged, air-to-air intercooled diesel engine, which is ideal for use in the Middle East and Africa, delivering ‘best in class’ power with a maximum output of 294 kW at 2100 RPM. The high engine power output is combined with new ZF transmissions and several other features which, in addition to reducing fuel consumption, provide exceptional performance, high durability, ease of handling and serviceability, and significantly enhanced operator comfort.

The DL550 wheel loader has three engine working modes: ECO, NORMAL and POWER, to adapt the machine to different applications, with

“AFRICA IS A STRATEgIC MARkET FOR SHANTUI AND THREE OF THE COMPANy’S TEN SUBSIDIARIES BEINg ON THE CONTINENT.”

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST50

Special Feature

different engine speeds and gear steps according to the working mode engaged. With the ‘Power-Up’ function, the operator can manually adjust to the next highest working mode by applying a full stroke of the accelerator pedal. With this function, the operator can travel in moderate NORMAL mode and switch to POWER mode when it is really needed, such as when taking material from a pile. This capability helps to reduce fuel consumption. The ECO Bar provides information in real-time about fuel consumption in relation to machine performance, allowing the operator to select the driving mode for the best fuel efficiency.

The operator can set a password for machine start. There is also a new Auto Idle feature which, when activated, reduces engine speed by about 200 RPM after 10 seconds if there is no machine movement. Auto Idle is ideal for applications with long waiting times, such as truck loading and lowers fuel consumption significantly.

The new ZF transmission improves the transfer of power from the engine to the wheels and contributes significantly to the overall reduction in fuel consumption. The new transmission provides better response and acceleration, especially on slopes. Engine speed variation is less thanks to smaller gear steps, and lower engine speed throughout the whole drive range reduces fuel consumption. Thanks to higher shift quality, noise levels are lower while driving performance and productivity have been increased. A 5-gear transmission with torque convertor lock up is available as an option.

Case’s 921F has been available for a while but it recently like other major manufacturers, Case has

maintain cab temperature. The Cat monitoring system provides a digital readout of critical machine parameters, and an optional rearview camera system is available.

For added safety, a roll-over protection system (ROPS) and falling objects protection system (FOPS) are integral aspects of the cab design. Also, service walkways have non-skid surfaces, and a convenient windshield cleaning platform facilitates access to cab glass.

The 986H is designed to ease routine maintenance, with ground level or platform access to service points, including a centralized grease bank for lubricating linkage pins and remote pressure taps for power train components. A ground level electrical service panel includes an emergency engine shutdown switch, battery disconnect switch and circuit breakers.

2013 also saw Doosan Infracore Construction Equipment launch its new generation DL550 wheel loader, the top-of-the-range model in the company’s new family of wheel loaders intended for markets in the Middle East and Africa. With a bucket capacity of 5.4 m3, the DL550 wheel loader is designed to meet a wide range of material-handling needs from loading and transporting granular material (such as sand and gravel) to industrial, mining and quarrying applications.

A key feature of the new DL550 wheel loader is the Tier-2 12.7l Scania DC13 turbo-charged, air-to-air intercooled diesel engine, which is ideal for use in the Middle East and Africa, delivering ‘best in class’ power with a maximum output of 294 kW at 2100 RPM. The high engine power output is combined with new ZF transmissions and several other features which, in addition to reducing fuel consumption, provide exceptional performance, high durability, ease of handling and serviceability, and significantly enhanced operator comfort.

The DL550 wheel loader has three engine working modes: ECO, NORMAL and POWER, to adapt the machine to different applications, with

“AFRICA IS A STRATEgIC MARkET FOR SHANTUI AND THREE OF THE COMPANy’S TEN SUBSIDIARIES BEINg ON THE CONTINENT.”

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 51

also introduced been busy updating is earthmovers for Tier-2 markets. Most recently it launched two new F-Series wheeled loaders – the 4 m3 bucket capacity 921F and 5 m3 1121F. As well as the engines, both machines also feature design aspects tailored to work in remote, dusty environments including radiator cooling cubes, which see five radiators mounted to form a cube instead of overlapping. Designed specifically for aggregate and quarry operations, this model delivers best-in-class horsepower, quick throttle response and massive torque with the reliable, engine. Efficiency is increased with the ability to match available engine power with four programmable power modes, while productivity is maximized by the powerful and quick hydraulics. Roading speed, acceleration and cycle times are faster with the optional five-speed transmission with lockup torque converter. And targets can be approached quickly and precisely regardless of engine speed with Case PowerInch — part of the optional five-speed lockup transmission.

The Tier-4 model gained a 10% increase in fuel economy with the engine’s Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology however, fuel savings can be furthered up to 30% with the standard engine shutdown feature — allowing the owner to limit engine idle time. An optional Efficiency Package provides additional fuel savings with features such as five-speed lock-up transmission, axles with auto locking differential and advanced system programming.

LiuGong is delivering wheel loaders equipped with the brand new Guangxi Cummins L9.3 engine, to the overseas market.

ZL50CN, 855N, 856 and all other LiuGong Tier II 5 ton wheel loaders are the first to be equipped with the L9.3 engine manufactured by Guangxi Cummins Engine Co. Ltd. The engine is uniquely designed for the wheel loader market and optimized for 5-tonne bucket capacity. The L9.3 is built is built at Guangxi Cummins’ state of the art manufacturing facility and is produced using top of the line machining and testing systems to meet the various demands of both the Chinese and those of the international markets.

“We could not be happier with the results of this endeavor and with the end result” said Mr. Yu Chuanfen, President of LiuGong Machinery. “These machines have been tested and running in the Chinese domestic market for more than

a year. The results have been excellence - the performance, productivity, reliability, and the durability. LiuGong and Cummins have worked together to create a new standard of cooperation in the industry.”

Founded in Liuzhou in 2011, Guangxi Cummins is a joint venture of LiuGong Machinery and Cummins. The JV focuses on designing and producing engines designed and fully localized for construction equipment in developing and emerging markets. It officially started operations in 2013 and volume is planned to reach 50,000 units with the capability to expand in the future.

“Not like others, LiuGong is born and lives for the heavy equipment. That’s the reason we never stop investing and working with industry leaders to make our machines better. Cummins and LiuGong have over 13 years of successful cooperation and we are going to with that,” added Yu Chuanfen.

LiuGong supplying GCIC loaders overseas

June 2014

COnStrUCtiOn

MiDDLe eaSt52

Road Construction

Beating the wear Road building is one of the major construction activities in the GCC, and any mistakes during the construction process will have a major impact on the road’s long-term life, as well as its total cost to maintain. CMME international editor Stian Overdahl talks to Fredrik Åkesson, manager of Atlas Copco’s Technology and Application Center about improving contractor quality on site

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 53

The importance of proper compaction for a road project cannot be underplayed (a rule that applies equally to any infrastructure or civil construction project), both in the short term (getting the consultant to sign off on

the project) and in the long term (how will the road feel in seven years as you drive along it?)

“Whether it’s a road, an airfield, or a building, the key to a durable foundation is efficient compaction,” says Fredrik Åkesson, manager of Atlas Copco’s Technology and Application Center (TAC) for compaction, milling and paving.

Set up in 2013, the TAC carries out research into improving practices in the field, as well as funneling information into the ongoing development of Atlas Copco machinery.

The research centre, at Dynapac’s plant in Sweden (Dynapac was acquired by Atlas Copco in 2007), has test facilities that include indoor and outdoor test areas and a laboratory. The indoor test area has enough space to accommodate even the largest single drum rollers, allowing full-scale testing to be performed under controlled conditions with no interference from the weather.

Åkesson says that despite the importance of compaction to a project, from a contractor perspective, compaction will typically only make up around 5% of a road contract’s total cost. Yet improvements in this phase can improve the overall quality of a road.

Incidences of new roads having to be completely rebuilt from the sub-base level up are thankfully quite rare, says Åkesson, and he believes in most such cases it’s likely to be as a result of the wrong

“OpTImum WATer COnTenT IS CrITICAl IF YOu WAnT TO AChIeve A hIgh Degree OF COmpACTIOn. IDeAllY YOu ShOulD hAve The exACT SAme WATer COnTenT ThrOugh-OuT The lAYer, FrOm The bOTTOm TO The TOp.”

geotechnical information being supplied to the contractor, rather than incompetence on the part of the road builder, while most major road problems are likely to be noticed during the construction phase.

rather, it is smaller issues – slight under-compaction, or shortcuts taken in the construction phase – that will eventually surface as potholes or cracks in the road.

”These really shorten the lifecycle of the road, and that’s where the bigger costs come in. If you design the road for a certain lifetime, and for a certain maintenance interval, and it fails prior to that, you either have to do costly intermediate repairs, or you have to shorten the life expectancy of the road, and do the major repairs, such as replacing the wearing course, at shorter intervals, all of which in course increases the cost of the road.”

One area which is critical to compaction in a hot, dry climate such as the middle east is maintaining the correct water content. “Optimum water content is critical if you want to achieve a high degree of compaction. Ideally you should have the exact same water content through-out the layer, from the bottom to the top, and of course in a hot climate this is tricky,” says Åkesson.

If water is put down too early, it can evaporate before compaction takes place, while the water will also penetrate the material slowly if it is already compacted, and by then the surface may start to dry, meaning the water content will not be homogeneous.

One adjustment to deal with this can be to use thinner compaction layers, or use additional passes, to get the result that would be achieved ideally, though both of these options will increase the cost,

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST54

Road Construction

something which needs to be measured, or balanced, against the final quality.

“Just paying attention in general will probably increase the quality as well. The more awareness you have on the jobsite of the issues that you face, the better the quality will be,” says Åkesson.

Other factors would could lead to a road wearing out faster include design mistakes, or miscalculating the number of vehicles that will travel on a carriageway.

Typically a wearing course can last from 5-8 years, depending on the amount of traffic, and the further you go down into the structure, the longer its life should be. Unbound layers should last 40-50 years, though there can be problems if roads were not historically developed for the volumes of traffic we see on them today.

While heavy vehicles cause more wear to a road than lighter vehicles, overloaded heavy vehicles – which have been noted as being prevalent in the Middle East – cause even more damage.

This is compounded in the summer months, when the wear course will softer due to temperature, and will be impacted by the heavy vehicles. Damage is

likely to be concentrated around traffic lights and areas where traffic moves slowly. At the same time, damage to the wear course could also indicate the layer was spread too thinly (the wear course is the most expensive layer in the road construction process), or that there are other problems deeper in the road structure.

One of the main messages for contractors is that they should be careful to have the right machine for the job, says Åkesson; in the case of rollers, to match machine performance with ground conditions, something which TAC can provide guidance on. If a customer simply wants to order a 10-ton roller for a project, there is a risk they will be disappointed in the performance.

“If the customer agrees, we carefully review the material to be compacted, the compaction strategy and the ground conditions in advance in order to help them select the correct machine for the job and get a top quality result. A better result and a lower cost per compacted cubic meter might, for instance, be achieved with an 8-ton machine.”

Asphalt paving is the critical process in the road construction process, especially as far as contractors are concerned given the cost of producing asphalt. Åkesson says that for paving the TAC’s recommendations can result in significant improvements.

“The process needs to be continuous and every link in the chain must interface correctly with the next to achieve the desired result,” he explains. “The number of tonnes of asphalt mix you can deliver to the paver decides your paving speed in relation to your layer thickness and paving width. In turn, the paving speed and the cooling time of your asphalt mix must be matched with sufficient compaction capacity, ie, using the correct rollers in sufficient numbers.”

“PAyIng ATTEnTIOn WIll PrObAbly InCrEAsE qUAlITy As WEll. ThE MOrE AWArEnEss yOU hAvE On ThE JObsITE Of ThE IssUEs ThAT yOU fACE, ThE bETTEr ThE qUAlITy WIll bE.”

In light of the recently-awarded contract to develop Phase II of the Dubai Water Canal, the RTA has announced it will undertake special measures to ensure construction work on-site does not hinder residents and drivers in the vicinity of the project.

The $104.5 million – worth contract to build bridges at Jumeirah and Al Wasl Roads was awarded to China State Construction Engineering Corporation Middle East (CSCECME) by the RTA, with the project’s completion target set for the fourth quarter of 2016.

RTA chairman and executive director of the board, H.E. Mattar Al Tayer said the roads authority will ensure traffic diversions are planned in a way that causes minimal disruption to residents in the localities.

“The contractor’s work area will be fully separated by a high barrier to keep the disturbance to road users and residents of the neighbourhood to the minimum,” Al Tayer confirmed.

“The number of lanes during the diversion stage will be equal to the existing number of lanes in order to make sure that

such diversions will not have a negative impact on the existing traffic volumes, and accordingly avoid any congestion or delay caused by construction works.

“The RTA has drawn up plans governing traffic diversion to ensure smooth traffic flow such that the engineering design of the temporary traffic diversion will conform to the specifications of permanent roads in terms of engineering design, leveling of the asphalt surface, and the provision of lighting compatible to the design speed of the road in order to ensure the

traffic safety of all road users,” Al Tayer added.

Road expansion projects, such as the expansion of roads at Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) in Dubai and the revamp of the National Paints Roundabout in Sharjah have previously hindered residents and drivers.

The completion of Dubai Canal’s second phase is targeted to “coincide with the completion of Phase I of the project covering the construction of a bridge on the Sheikh Zayed Road passing over the course of the Canal, allowing free navigation around the clock,” Al Tayer added.

Dubai roaDs will not be DraggeD unDer

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST54

Road Construction

something which needs to be measured, or balanced, against the final quality.

“Just paying attention in general will probably increase the quality as well. The more awareness you have on the jobsite of the issues that you face, the better the quality will be,” says Åkesson.

Other factors would could lead to a road wearing out faster include design mistakes, or miscalculating the number of vehicles that will travel on a carriageway.

Typically a wearing course can last from 5-8 years, depending on the amount of traffic, and the further you go down into the structure, the longer its life should be. Unbound layers should last 40-50 years, though there can be problems if roads were not historically developed for the volumes of traffic we see on them today.

While heavy vehicles cause more wear to a road than lighter vehicles, overloaded heavy vehicles – which have been noted as being prevalent in the Middle East – cause even more damage.

This is compounded in the summer months, when the wear course will softer due to temperature, and will be impacted by the heavy vehicles. Damage is

likely to be concentrated around traffic lights and areas where traffic moves slowly. At the same time, damage to the wear course could also indicate the layer was spread too thinly (the wear course is the most expensive layer in the road construction process), or that there are other problems deeper in the road structure.

One of the main messages for contractors is that they should be careful to have the right machine for the job, says Åkesson; in the case of rollers, to match machine performance with ground conditions, something which TAC can provide guidance on. If a customer simply wants to order a 10-ton roller for a project, there is a risk they will be disappointed in the performance.

“If the customer agrees, we carefully review the material to be compacted, the compaction strategy and the ground conditions in advance in order to help them select the correct machine for the job and get a top quality result. A better result and a lower cost per compacted cubic meter might, for instance, be achieved with an 8-ton machine.”

Asphalt paving is the critical process in the road construction process, especially as far as contractors are concerned given the cost of producing asphalt. Åkesson says that for paving the TAC’s recommendations can result in significant improvements.

“The process needs to be continuous and every link in the chain must interface correctly with the next to achieve the desired result,” he explains. “The number of tonnes of asphalt mix you can deliver to the paver decides your paving speed in relation to your layer thickness and paving width. In turn, the paving speed and the cooling time of your asphalt mix must be matched with sufficient compaction capacity, ie, using the correct rollers in sufficient numbers.”

“PAyIng ATTEnTIOn WIll PrObAbly InCrEAsE qUAlITy As WEll. ThE MOrE AWArEnEss yOU hAvE On ThE JObsITE Of ThE IssUEs ThAT yOU fACE, ThE bETTEr ThE qUAlITy WIll bE.”

In light of the recently-awarded contract to develop Phase II of the Dubai Water Canal, the RTA has announced it will undertake special measures to ensure construction work on-site does not hinder residents and drivers in the vicinity of the project.

The $104.5 million – worth contract to build bridges at Jumeirah and Al Wasl Roads was awarded to China State Construction Engineering Corporation Middle East (CSCECME) by the RTA, with the project’s completion target set for the fourth quarter of 2016.

RTA chairman and executive director of the board, H.E. Mattar Al Tayer said the roads authority will ensure traffic diversions are planned in a way that causes minimal disruption to residents in the localities.

“The contractor’s work area will be fully separated by a high barrier to keep the disturbance to road users and residents of the neighbourhood to the minimum,” Al Tayer confirmed.

“The number of lanes during the diversion stage will be equal to the existing number of lanes in order to make sure that

such diversions will not have a negative impact on the existing traffic volumes, and accordingly avoid any congestion or delay caused by construction works.

“The RTA has drawn up plans governing traffic diversion to ensure smooth traffic flow such that the engineering design of the temporary traffic diversion will conform to the specifications of permanent roads in terms of engineering design, leveling of the asphalt surface, and the provision of lighting compatible to the design speed of the road in order to ensure the

traffic safety of all road users,” Al Tayer added.

Road expansion projects, such as the expansion of roads at Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) in Dubai and the revamp of the National Paints Roundabout in Sharjah have previously hindered residents and drivers.

The completion of Dubai Canal’s second phase is targeted to “coincide with the completion of Phase I of the project covering the construction of a bridge on the Sheikh Zayed Road passing over the course of the Canal, allowing free navigation around the clock,” Al Tayer added.

Dubai roaDs will not be DraggeD unDer

November 2013

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST 51

June 2014

CONSTRUCTION

MIDDLE EAST56

When Ousama Fansa, the CEO of the Roots

Group, was interviewed in Deloitte’s

GCC Power of Construction 2014 report

that the Case dealer has adjusted its

approach after the slow down in Saudi.

“When I first arrived here 28 years ago I was told

it wouldn’t last and I’ve been hearing the same

every year since. Yes there are challenges and

risks and the landscape will continue to change,

but what has been done here, particularly over the

last five years, is impressive and should give us

confidence. I’ve been waiting 28 years for the end

of the sector and I think I have a few more to wait

yet,” he said.

One of the most pertinent insights from Fansa

in the interview is that he believes that the

government-led construction market will not last

forever.“We’re not facing dropping off a cliff here: the

underlying demand for infrastructure and other

investment is too great,” he said. “We are expecting,

however, a tapering off of the major programs

in the medium term. Our role as leaders in the

construction sector and as key participants in

the Kingdom’s economy is to ensure that our own

organizations are geared up to reflect this. We have

to be ready to reposition ourselves for the different

demands of a different primary customer base.”

On the relative dominance in the market for

major projects of the limited number of local

contractors, Ousama notes that this in

part reflects the commitment nd

investment that these firms have

made in the Kingdom. This is

both financial investment but

also the role that they play

directly in local materials

and employment markets.

“Each of these firms

is entwined within Saudi

Arabian society at multiple

levels, from community up to national government

– it is only natural that this is going to give them a

presence and opportunities above other firms, top

flight international organizations or otherwise,

who can view their engagement in the Kingdom on

a largely project by project basis.”

Ousama does bemoan the loss of many of the

high quality small to medium size contractors

in Saudi. For many of these organizations the

increasing costs and complexity of business

brought by regulation and greater requirements

such as bonding (which has oth a direct cost and

lock-up facilities) has made involvement in the

sector untenable.

On issues such as sustainability Ousama is

generally positive. While holistic LEED-type

standards and mentality regarding design and

construction are not yet the norm, there is

increasing awareness of sustainability standards in

specifying materials. Similarly while historically any

analytical consideration of whole life costs and long-

term facility performance were very much secondary

to the imperative to build, there is growing

recognition of the criticality of this in the design and

specification phases. This reflects an overall

The trend that Ousama identifies in government

contracting. Over the last five years there has been

a consistent raising of the standards of many Saudi

government clients. Organizations such as the

Ministry of the Interior, Aramco, and the National

Guard amongst many are backing up progressive

visions for their construction programs with

strong in-house or embedded engineering skills.

This is being reflected in a progressive increase in

the quality of work and materials specified and

the rigor through which delivery is assessed. In

many cases Ousama considers the standards as the

highest within the region.

Over the last five years there has been a

consistent raising of the standards of many Saudi

government clients. Organizations such as the

Ministry of the Interior, Aramco, and the National

Guard amongst many are backing up progressive

visions for their construction programs with

strong in-house or embedded engineering skills.

This is being reflected in a progressive increase in

the quality of work and materials specified and

the rigor through which delivery is assessed. In

many cases Ousama considers the standards as

the highest within the region. While there are still

clearly some variations in the standards achieved

between clients, the overall trend is positive.

Furthermore, Ousama sees the bar-raising effected

by government clients as being reflected more

widely now in the private sector.

As yet integrated supply chain

management and the specification of

optimal materials based a structured

and holistic assessment are not

the norm. They are, however,

becoming more evident and

as the construction sector

begins to position itself for

the post-government funding

boom, Ousama Fansa is not

alone in retaining cautious

optimism.

The last five years has

seen a consistent raising of

standards in KSA.

The Last Word

Substantial contracts

According to Deloitte, KSA is

set to award further substantial

contracts in the transport sector

over the next five years, with project

management contracts tendered for

both the US$7B Saudi Landbridge rail

project and the estimated US$10B

expansion of King Khalid

International Airport.

Roots’ CEO reveals impact of KSA slowdown

Gearing down

construction machinery me june 2014

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