The magazine of Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV GROUND
CIssue 14 AutumnO 2012 www.hcme.comNTROL
THE MINING GIANTS
Coal mining in Mozambique Below-ground construction in the UK First Zaxis-5 excavators working in Europe GROUND CONTROL The magazine of Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV CONTENTS Issue 14 Autumn 2012 www.hcme.com
04 News Explore Hitachi construction machinery from around the globe as well as all the latest exhibition and new product news
10 A world of experience New HCME President and CEO, Mr Moriaki Kadoya, reveals that this is his second appointment in The Netherlands
12 Large-scale support Find out what it takes to transport, assemble, operate and maintain the ultra-large Hitachi EX8000-6 mining excavator
18 Zaxis-5 put to the test The first Zaxis-5 excavators have been released into Europe and Ground Control asks the operators for their first impressions
22 Urban legends Two British companies, the Carey Group and M O’Brien Plant Hire, are making the most of Hitachi clamshell telescopic excavators
26 The drive for electric power A fleet of EH3500ACII dump trucks operating on a trolley assist system is helping to transform the Kansanshi mine in Zambia
30 Focusing on customer solutions Nasta is celebrating its 30th year as the Norwegian Hitachi dealer with a new identity and headquarters, and some recognition for its achievements
34 Mobile lifting power Introducing Hitachi Sumitomo and the advantages of using crawler cranes on different job sites in The Netherlands and Belgium The tourist trade in Eilat, Israel, is booming thanks to the support of construction company, S Noufi and Sons
Ground Control is published twice a year and is circulated among 100,000 readers. Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV, Siciliëweg 5, 1045 AT Amsterdam, The Netherlands Telephone: +31 -(0)20 44 76 700 Fax: +31 -(0)20 33 44 045 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.hcme.com Editor: Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV: Ghislaine Jonker Co-ordination: Somacon, www.somacon.nl Editorial and design: Red International Communication, www.redinternational.co.uk Photography: Glenn Blackburn, www.glennblackburn.co.uk Translation: UvA Talen, www.uvatalen.nl Printing: Roto Smeets GrafiServices, www.rsgrafiservices.nl Circulation: Vogelaar Verzenders BV, www.vogelaarverzenders.nl
© Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME). All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden except with the written permission of HCME. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information published in Ground Control, HCME is not responsible for inaccuracies or omissions. All views expressed are not necessarily those of HCME. The manufacturer is not responsible for non-compliance to industry-standard health and safety measures by third parties, nor for any damage or loss resulting from anyone’s reliance on editorial and photography in Ground Control.
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GROUND CONTROL 03 NEWS
Another first for Hitachi
The first Hitachi hybrid excavator has been presented to the European market. Developed using decades of experience in hydraulic, battery-powered and electric excavator technologies, the ZH200 model was presented earlier this year at the Intermat exhibition. Better for the environment, easier for the operator and more economical for the owner, the ZH200 hybrid heralds the start of a new generation of Hitachi excavators. It is equipped with a high-performance TRIAS HX system – a combination of a hybrid system with the energy-efficient TRIAS hydraulic system. This reduces fuel consumption and CO2 by 20 per cent (fuel consumption is compared with the ZX210-3 in P-mode). The excavator’s user-friendly design incorporates a monitoring system, which highlights fuel usage on an average hourly and daily basis. It also features low maintenance and highly durable electrical components. Yusuke Kajita, General Manager of the Construction Equipment Hitachi launches ZW250-5 Development Centre at Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd., says: “Technically advanced machines make Hitachi stand out wheel loader from the crowd. Advanced technology is necessary to maintain our position in the market – not just for the hydraulics and engine, Following the successful launch of its Zaxis-5 excavators, but also for electrical technology. Hitachi has unveiled the first of its ZW-5 wheel loaders. The new “Hitachi is the biggest electrical products manufacturer in Japan ZW250-5 has been designed to comply with EU regulations on and so we are very strong in this area. So, when fossil fuels are in emission standards and satisfy the requirements of European short supply and become more expensive, electrical technology customers. It offers an exceptional level of comfort, excellent will be the key to the future and we will be in an excellent position productivity, advanced technology, and a range of features for to capitalise on this.” enhanced sustainability, safety and easy maintenance. The cab is more spacious than the previous model and it has greater visibility thanks to a pillar-less windshield and large sun visor. The 7.8-litre six-cylinder water-cooled turbo engine enables a powerful digging performance, impressive travel speeds and excellent fuel consumption. An example of its advanced technology is the quick power switch, which boosts the power when required by changing work modes. One work mode is for regular operations, with the benefit of efficient fuel consumption; the other is for more demanding jobs and increases productivity. The sustainability of the ZW250-5 is highlighted by the muffler filter. It captures air pollutants, which are automatically burnt thanks to an oxidation catalyst and exhaust temperature control. Easy maintenance features include the redesigned engine and radiator cover, which can be opened fully to provide quick access for daily inspection. Wilbert Blom, HCME International Sales, says, “We believe that the new ZW wheel loader not only meets our customers’ expectations of high quality and reliability, but also provides a safe working environment, a comfortable cab with easy-to-use controls, and overall, a machine that responds quickly and precisely.”
04 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV Zaxis-5 range unveiled at TKD
The biennial TKD (Technische Kontakt Dagen) event took place in Wezep, The Netherlands in June. The three-day exhibition is one of the most important for the domestic market of Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME). It allows visitors to test drive construction machinery on display and make comparisons between competitive products. HCME and its domestic dealer took the opportunity to present the new Zaxis-5 excavators to the Dutch market. Several models were on display, including the ZX250LC-5, ZX290LC-5, ZX350LC-5 and ZX470LCH-5. The manufacturer also showcased the ZX250LC-5 with a 15-metre super long front and a ZX470LCH-5 with a 25-metre demolition front. Dutch owners and operators were drawn to the Hitachi stand by two other special attractions: the new ZW250-5 wheel loader and the ZH200 hybrid excavator. Both were on display in The Netherlands for the first time. In addition, the ZX60USB-3 mini excavator, ZX145W-3 wheeled excavator and the ZW150 wheel Unique paint process for loader were available to test drive and proved extremely popular among visitors. factory Director of Domestic Sales Pieter Weerts was pleased to see many existing Hitachi customers at this year’s TKD and delighted with the Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) has response to the stand: “The exhibition has been a huge success implemented a unique process to reduce chemical waste from once again, with 20,000 visitors. I think people were particularly the painting process at its factory in Amsterdam. Developed in impressed by the Hitachi stand because it was spacious, with lots cooperation with Advantage Chemicals Ltd., the process will of machines to try out and one of the few to show larger machines save an estimated €60,000 per year on labour and energy costs, over 25 tonnes at work.” as well as disposal costs for waste water and sludge. The old painting process produced approximately 260 tonnes of waste per year. The paint would sink to the bottom of the pool of water beneath the paint facility. Twice a year, the pool had to be cleaned, and the water and paint had to be removed, which was costly in terms of labour, energy, water and waste removal. HCME Production Engineering Manager Robin Huijsman, who is also Compliance Officer for Environmental Regulation, says, “Cleaning the pool was a difficult and dirty job. With the new system, we are able to remove the overspray paint and reuse the water. The facility is cleaner and the filtering system that removes paint particles from the air functions better. Less solvents are released into the factory air and there is less dust.” The new process combines real-time CoAg (coagulation) systems with waste water treatment systems. Instead of sinking, the paint is suspended in the water and pumped to a waste treatment tank. “Advantage Chemicals developed a chemical that makes the paint float. What is really innovative is that we only need to run this process for four hours per month,” adds Robin. “The floating paint sludge is then skimmed off the top of the tank and is estimated at 30 tonnes per year. The new system has improved the overall carbon footprint of the HCME factory in Amsterdam.”
GROUND CONTROL 05 NEWS
Regis Moulin, the founder and CEO of Moulin TP Global e-Service helps Moulin TP to manage its fleet
Global e-Service – an essential tool
Developed to protect the investment made by customers in Hitachi and can calculate an average over a self-defined period. This is construction machinery, the Support Chain after-sales programme particularly useful at a time when fuel prices are rising steadily. contributes to efficient fleet management, minimal downtime and From an environmental perspective, Global e-Service can also
reduced running costs. highlight the CO2 emissions of an individual Hitachi machine, as well One of the links in the chain is Global e-Service, an online as indicate hours of idling. This kind of information is increasingly application that allows customers to monitor their machines important as local legislations are placing further restrictions on remotely. It is available as standard for Zaxis excavators and ZW excessive emissions. wheel loaders, and is optional for large EX mining excavators and EH mining dump trucks. The machines send operational data on Maintenance scheduling a daily basis via GPRS or satellite to a main server managed by Customers like Moulin TP also use the Global e-Service website to Hitachi. The data is then processed and made available to view in a store details of completed and forthcoming maintenance services, clear, accessible way on the Global e-Service website. to assist with the planning of each machine’s utilisation and Customers and dealers can visit the website at any time to ordering spare parts. “As well as accessing daily information, I also view a variety of information. This includes operational data, look up statistical information from when the machine has been in such as working hours, pressures, temperatures and payloads, operation,” says Regis.
as well as fuel levels and consumption figures, CO2 emission Any maintenance work carried out by Teramat, the official Hitachi data, recommended service and inspection intervals, maintenance dealer, is entered on the machine’s computer and recorded on history and the geographical location of each individual model. Global e-Service the following day. Regis can therefore download lists of daily inspections, and periodical or preventive maintenance Fuel consumption for each of his machines, saving valuable time in planning and The fuel consumption figures are particularly useful for French storing this information for the fleet. customer Moulin TP, a company that specialises in public works (groundworks, utilities, foundations, road construction), quarrying, Location tracking and monitoring waste management, recycling and forestry. It currently has two Working across varied industry solutions and in different locations Hitachi excavators, a ZX520-3 and ZX350-3 used for public works, at any one time makes planning essential for the successful and a ZX500 excavator and ZW310 wheel loader working in the operation of companies like Moulin TP. The Global e-Service Trevas granite quarry. All were supplied by its local official Hitachi website displays the locations of each individual machine using dealer, Teramat. either Google Maps or GIS (Geographical Information System). The Regis Moulin, the founder and CEO, says, “I use Global e-Service latter also allows customers to trace multiple machines by specific to verify the fuel consumption, and number of hours a machine has search criteria, and track and display movements of machines over operated. This helps me to easily ensure optimal performance of a period of time. my Hitachi machines.” The Global e-Service is therefore an essential tool, ensuring As well as daily fuel consumption, the Global e-Service facility Hitachi equipment performs at the highest level, and making life also shows the estimated lifetime consumption of that machine easier for fleet managers and machine owners all around the world.
06 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV Information A special landmark for HCME
This year marks the 40th anniversary of Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME). Established in Oosterhout in 1972, Super Wide DH-1 and DH-2 oil the company moved its manufacturing, sales and marketing for maximum performance. headquarters to Amsterdam in 2002. This location now includes a factory for the construction of medium excavators, assembly of wheel loaders, and a Training and Demonstration Centre. Mini excavators and special application equipment are manufactured in Oosterhout, which is also the location for the European Distribution Centre. During the past four decades, HCME has established a strong network of dealers and liaison offices throughout Europe, Africa, the CIS and the Middle East. The company mission to ‘think global, act local’ has been reflected by its focus on customer needs and supported by the Hitachi brand values associated with innovation and technology. HCME has witnessed a steady growth in demand for Hitachi construction machinery across all territories over the years. Since 2002, for example, the total market share for excavators up to six LED working light. tonnes has doubled; and the total market share for wheel loaders has tripled. Superior illumination! New President and CEO, Mr Moriaki Kadoya, is delighted to join the company as it celebrates such an important milestone. “We will be celebrating HCME’s 40th anniversary at different events with our colleagues, dealers and customers,” he says. “We can feel proud of our long history in The Netherlands and Europe. However, we wouldn’t have enjoyed such success without our customers – so it’s a big thanks to them from all of us for their support. “We are delighted with how our business has continued to thrive and Hitachi is here to stay in Europe. Our ongoing commitment to our customers is to improve our business activities so that we can continue to help them to be profitable.” Hitachi Performance Parts Watch Rubber Strap Complete package to service your machine.
Contact your local dealer for more information. Mr Kadoya outside HCME’s Amsterdam headquarters
GROUND CONTROL 07 NEWS
Relentless ZW250 cuts fuel costs
Swedish-owned Södra Cell is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of paper pulp. One of its facilities is Södra Cell Folla, a pulp mill located in Verran, central Norway. It produces pulp for manufacturing milk cartons, tissue and printing paper. Three years ago, when it needed a new wheel loader, four leading brands were tested. Nasta, the official Hitachi dealer in Norway, offered the ZW250 together with a full service contract. After three years of operation, the machine has 15,500 working hours and 86,000km on the clock. With the ZW250, the company has managed to reduce fuel consumption by up to 25 per cent, compared with the wheel loader it replaced. Fitted with a 15m3 bucket, the Hitachi wheel loader transports wood pellets and sawdust around the mill in three shifts per day, seven days a Moviter Service Manager Luis Bertão (centre) with the operators week, and travels up to 180km in 24 hours. Kjell Sørensen, who is responsible for wheel loader sales at Nasta, says: “The most important benefit of the ZW250 wheel loader for this customer is the 20 to 25 per cent reduction in Hitachi tackles climate fuel consumption. Another advantage is the optional limited slip differential, which delivers effective driving force to both wheels change for greater traction on snow-covered roads.” Tore Andreas Norum, supervisor and operator at Södra Cell The Japanese Government has donated four medium Hitachi Folla, adds: “We are delighted with the performance of the ZW250 excavators to the Republic of Cape Verde. The four ZX210H-3Gs – it is a powerful, fast machine, and it never stops. After three were delivered to the Ministry of Environment, Rural Development years and 15,500 hours, it works like new!” and Marine Resources in December 2011. They will help the country to recover from natural disasters such as hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, droughts and floods. The machines began operation in January 2012 on four islands: Praia, São Nicolau, Santo Antão and São Vicente. The ZX210H-3Gs were chosen from a variety of models because they offer an ideal size/performance ratio. The official Portuguese Hitachi dealer, Moviter, provided training for the operators, and will continue to support the machines with periodic service and maintenance checks. “The people of Cape Verde are very happy with the performance of the products,” says Moviter Service Manager Luis Bertão. “They are also satisfied with the support and training they have received from Moviter.” This is the first time that Hitachi excavators have been delivered to the Republic of Cape Verde as part of an Official Development Assistance programme run by the Japanese Government. The programme aims to improve the capabilities of countries worldwide to cope with natural disasters caused by climate change. As well as construction equipment, the Japanese Government has donated trucks, mobile workshops, ambulances and generators, for example, to countries in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, South and Central America. As part of the programme, Hitachi products will also be delivered to Ghana, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Gambia, Kenya, Malawi, Mauritania, Senegal, Togo and Uganda.
08 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV Hitachi holds the key for UK rental market
A customer of HM Plant, the official UK Hitachi dealer, has invested in 68 new Zaxis excavators this year. Keyway, based in Gloucester, ordered a range of models, from the ZX17U-2 to the ZX210LC-3. The company was established in 1966 and specialises in operated and self-drive plant hire. The founder’s two sons, Eamonn and Brian McGurk, and grandsons, Eamonn Jr and Patrick, are now responsible for the company and are supported by several other family members, including Brian’s sons, Ryan and Gearard. “Keyway specialises in long-term hires and offers customers excellent rates and a bespoke service,” says Eamonn. “We can be working on 50 to 100 job sites a day, with anything from one machine to a huge fleet operation.” The company has been buying Hitachi machines for more than 17 years and the decision to invest in the new models was based on several factors. “Hitachi is recognised in the industry as a top brand, the advanced technology is unsurpassed, and Ground-breaking investment they’re reliable, durable and easy to operate,” adds Eamonn. The cost of ownership and resale value are additional benefits, in Israel explains Brian: “We replace our machinery after three years and at the end of their life cycle with Keyway, Hitachi models sustain Six Hitachi EH3500ACII rigid dump trucks have been delivered the best values on the market.” to a phosphate mine in Israel. The order by Rotem Amfert Negev “The reliable support we receive from HM Plant is also Ltd represented the largest sale of mobile plant equipment in the important,” says Eamonn. “They have continued to raise their country’s history. game over the years and offer us an improved level of service.” The multinational company manufactures phosphoric acids, fertilisers, specialty chemicals and phosphate salts. It required the new models to update its fleet of Euclid trucks. They are used to remove overburden, and haul the phosphate to storage areas, crusher and processing plant at the Mishor Rotem Mine, near the Negev Desert. The handover ceremony in April was attended by representatives from the customer and its parent company, ICL. Senior management from Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) and Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. (HCM), also joined the key personnel from CMD, the official Hitachi dealer in Israel. Kiyomitsu Yamanaka, Special Advisor for HCM, said: “Since HCM gained ownership of Euclid in 2001, it has introduced new AC drive technologies, as seen in the EH3500ACII. These and other innovations will enable Hitachi to become further established as a world leader in the design and production of large mining trucks.” HCME Manager of Heavy Equipment Sales Malcolm Edwards says, “Rotem chose Hitachi because it could offer its own electronics for the truck’s electronic drive system – it is a one-stop shop. They also saw the successful operation of the EH3500ACII trucks working at the Talvivaara nickel mine in Finland in temperatures of -32°C. Additionally, they have a good working relationship with CMD and are happy with the support they receive.” HCME and CMD provided training for 90 operators, who will keep the trucks moving 24/7. “The trucks are scheduled to complete 6,400 working hours a year, doing three shifts per day,” adds Malcolm. HM Plant Operations Director Andy Baker (left) and Keyway’s Eamonn McGurk
GROUND CONTROL 09 Interview
A WORLD OF EXPERIENCE Mr Moriaki Kadoya took up his post as the new President and CEO of Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) in Amsterdam at the beginning of May. In addition, his appointment as regional CEO for Europe, Russia, CIS, Middle East, and North, West and Central Africa is a true reflection of the vast experience he has gained from his previous roles within Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. (HCM)
r Kadoya is no stranger to The Netherlands, having previously Americas Department, where he managed the strategic relationship Mworked as HCME’s Sales and Marketing General Manager between Hitachi and John Deere. from 1992 to 1998. However, his varied career with HCM started This firm grounding and international experience will stand in 1981 after graduating in Economics from Keio University in his Mr Kadoya in good stead for his new role with HCME. In an native Japan. exclusive interview, Ground Control asks him about his past career, For the first five years, Mr Kadoya worked in the Overseas Sales current priorities and future developments after a busy opening Department, where he gained responsibility for Africa and then period at HCM’s European subsidiary. Europe. He moved to the Overseas Cooperation Department in 1986, where his experience broadened with the initiation of the Fiat What do you see as the major developments in the construction (Europe) and John Deere (USA) joint ventures, as well as setting up industry during your career? overseas subsidiaries. For the first 20 years, there were no emerging markets in the global After returning from his assignment at HCME, Mr Kadoya took on construction industry. North America, Japan and Europe accounted managerial roles in the Finance Department and Corporate Planning for 70 to 80 per cent of worldwide demand. Now, the Chinese market Office up to 2002. The former gave him a firm grasp of the principles is very important and the Korean manufacturers are competitive. of accountancy, while the latter offered an invaluable insight into the Mining has also become a significant industry solution. So, the company as a whole. whole landscape of the construction industry has changed and the His first posts as General Manager were two-year stints in the “emerging” territories now account for around 70 per cent of the Supply Chain Management Office – an extension of his previous role market. This is remarkable. in Corporate Planning – and the Sales Administration Department to coordinate HCM’s sales and production processes. Finally, Which part of your career have you enjoyed the most? Mr Kadoya returned to sales and marketing for six years in the I have experience of strategic planning, finance and sales, but
10 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV What is HCM’s current perception of the European market? HCM is proud that HCME has a long and successful history. Europe is a tough, competitive market, especially with the cost of importing goods from Japan due to the current strength of the yen. There is a wide range of requirements, even between the different applications in each country. So, it is important to evaluate our business model with the aim of increasing productivity and profitability. The plan is to increase the proportion of parts sourced from local suppliers in Europe. This will help to reduce our production costs and exposure to currency fluctuations.
What is the current feeling among the dealer network? I have already visited some of the dealers in western Europe under my HCME role, and found them to be open and honest. They all shared some positive comments and constructive criticisms with me. Some of HCME’s dealers have a long history with Hitachi and some are strong family-run businesses. They help to form important core values within our company, which are passed on from generation to generation. Hitachi may not be family owned, but that sense of a family spirit is very important to us.
Which countries do you see as emerging nations within your jurisdiction? The most potential seems to be coming from the Russian and Turkish markets. HCME’s European Distribution Centre at Oosterhout is also doing well and benefiting from the growth of the mining and general construction sectors in these countries, and the other nations within the CIS. In addition, there is much potential in North and West Africa.
Why do you feel you are so well suited to your new position? My previous experience in The Netherlands is an obvious advantage, when I worked within the Dutch dealer with responsibility to sell excavators and wheel loaders. I found this to be an interesting and challenging role. Prior to that, I had the pleasure of conducting business in Europe. My career has also included mid-term corporate planning, overseas development projects and turnaround programmes for HCM subsidiaries.
I believe that our business should be based on marketing, because What is HCME’s long-term strategy? it’s all about customers. Sometimes people think that marketing We have a very diversified business and product range, but are still is all about analysis, but the “smell” of the customer is heavily focused on excavators. So, we would like to place more more important. emphasis on the growth of mini excavators and wheel loaders, to bring them closer to the hydraulic excavator business. What is the key to HCM’s marketing approach? I would also like to prioritise the Support Chain after-sales Hitachi has to experience the “smell” of the customers by inviting programme. More machines will stay in Europe for longer – as them to the factory and visiting them on job sites. This is very emerging countries will not accept our advanced specification important and not the sort of marketing activity that is found machines – and so we have to take care of them. This incorporates in textbooks. Our success in Europe is based on the international the parts requirements for these models, so that they can work even sales team and Hitachi dealers visiting customers with engineers more reliably under the toughest of conditions. from Japan to research what is required. By listening to these requests, the number of modifications that have to be made to What is your message to Hitachi customers in Europe? the standard machine in each market are minimised and we can I would like to thank all of our customers for their support and loyalty. continuously search for areas of improvement. Without them, we would not have enjoyed such a long history. HCM is extremely proud of the success of its business in Europe. What do you like most about the Hitachi brand – and why? HCME is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2012 and we’re here Hitachi is extremely focused on engineering. So, our engineers are to stay, so that we can work together with our expanding customer always interested in listening to the owners and operators of the base. We aim to improve our range of products and services in line machines, and the problems they want to solve. This is the key to with our customers’ expectations – and that is our commitment our brand proposition. to them.
GROUND CONTROL 11 Job site
LARGE-SCALE SUPPORT The EX8000-6 is the largest excavator made by Hitachi. There have been recorded sightings in North America and Australasia, but none in Europe or Africa – until now. Ground Control goes to Mozambique in search of not one, but two of the gigantic mining machines at Vale’s Moatize site
12 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV The EX8000-6 excavating overburden with its huge 43m3 bucket (note the EX5500-6 in the background)
ince Mozambique became independent from Portugal in 1975, Sit has been troubled by conflict, economic fragility and famine. Sixteen years of civil war ended in 1992 and since then the country has made significant progress in terms of economic development and political stability. The national infrastructure still suffers from colonial neglect, a lack of investment and the devastation caused by flooding in 2000-01. However, foreign investors are now showing interest in the country’s wealth of natural resources and a large new mining project is attracting much attention from around the world. Vale’s Moatize coal mine will be the flagship site in the Tete province, lying 17km northeast of the city of Tete (which is on the Zambezi River) and 80km east of the Malawi border. This region holds one of the world’s largest untapped carbon reserves, particularly for coking coal, which is used to make steel. High demand for steel worldwide has accelerated the development of coking coal mines in various regions, such as Russia, China, USA and Australia, but this is the only one in Africa. Mozambique’s location on the east coast of Africa is also strategically placed to feed the Indian and Chinese markets. However, all export growth plans would have to overcome the woeful state of the country’s infrastructure. The Government is planning to establish a framework for how future projects are planned and who will benefit, to ensure all those expected to come online will get access to ports and rail links. Coal producers are also looking at building a new terminal at Chinde, north of Beira, which would have the capacity to handle 18-26million tonnes per year. The port’s construction is planned to coincide with the start of production at Rio Tinto’s new project in 2015, after it became Vale’s neighbour by acquiring Riversdale Mining in Tete for $4billion. This is just one example of the growing competition for Vale from other mining companies in Africa. The Brazilian company led the way in 2006 with a concession to build and operate the mine at Moatize to export coal via rail to Beira. Operations began in 2008, including the upgrading of 670km of railway at a cost of $375million, and it started production in 2011. Vale is the second largest metals and mining company, and one of the largest publicly traded companies in the world. It is the largest producer of iron ore and the second largest producer of nickel. In addition to thermal and coking coal, it also produces manganese, ferroalloys, copper, cobalt, platinum group metals and fertiliser nutrients. Vale is seeking to become a major global company in the coal sector. It has announced plans to invest $15-20billion in Africa between 2010 and 2015. This includes a $6billion expansion of Moatize to double output to 22million tonnes per year. First production from the expanded mine is forecast for the second half of 2014. The expansion will include $4.4billion dedicated to the building of a new coal terminal at the northern port of Nacala and a 912km-rail line connected to Moatize. The deep-water port is seen as more adequate to handle Panamax vessels (those that can travel through the Panama Canal) than the shallower one at Beira. The railway and port will initially have a capacity of 18million tonnes to meet Vale’s rising demand for exports. Gildiney Sales, Vale’s Mining Manager at Moatize, explains the importance of the project, “Vale has coal mines in other countries, but Moatize is the first time that we have developed one from scratch. This mine is extremely important as we aim to become the world’s top mining company in the area of steelmaking resources.”
GROUND CONTROL 13 Job site
The Moatize coal reserve is 954million tonnes and its life expectancy is 35 years. There are over 1,100 Vale employees and 600 subcontractors present on the site. They work across three shifts and in four teams, with one of these on standby. The overall proportion of Mozambicans is 84 per cent, despite the scarcity of skilled human resources. “The civil war ended 20 years ago and the 20- and 30-somethings lack sufficient education and work experience,” says Mamoru Sawabe, President of Hitachi Construction Machinery (Mozambique), Ltd., the first local subsidiary established by a Japanese company in the country. “In these circumstances, it is no easy task to maintain a high operating rate, while hiring and training local workers. Fortunately, Hitachi has some Japanese Brazilian staff, who have come from HCM’s head office in Tokyo and are helping to support the local workers and develop their skills.” The mining method is an open pit through sequential layers using excavators, wheel loaders and rigid dump trucks, in which the production and rehabilitation process runs simultaneously. With vast quantities of overburden to be removed and dumped in designated piles, and layers of coal to be collected and transported to the primary crusher, Vale has invested heavily in its mining equipment. The line-up includes two EX8000-6s (with 43m3 coal buckets) and three EX5500-6s (34m3) – the largest two excavators manufactured by Hitachi. The machines are subjected to one of Africa’s harshest environments, where temperatures exceed 50°C, and they come with a bespoke after-sales support package to meet Vale’s requirements. One of the EX8000-6s had already been operational for three months when Ground Control visited Moatize in May 2012. However, the second machine was being assembled by a team of specialist sub-contractors, overseen by Hitachi Construction Machinery Southern Africa Co., Ltd.’s National Product Specialist, Dave Thomas. Dave has worked in the industry for almost 30 years and already spent six months at this mine to manage the installation of the EX5500-6s and EX8000-6s. “Each of the disassembled EX8000-6s was transported on 29 trucks from the port at Durban in South Africa to the site on a rigorous two-week journey,” he explains. “The first one took eight men – one rigger and seven fitters – only 19 days to prepare, due to the urgency required by Vale to get the machine working on the site. When the EX8000-6 is ready for action, it takes us 1.5 days to walk it down to the pit!” The decision regarding which mining excavator to purchase is one that Vale takes very seriously. It not only compares different machines for productivity, but also for the level of technology that contributes to the safety of the operators and support offered by the manufacturer in remote areas such as Tete. “We have a dedicated department in Brazil that is responsible for acquiring new machinery,” says Mário Carpegiane, Vale’s Maintenance Supervisor at Moatize. “They know the level of equipment required to start operations at the mine and have knowledge of the availability and support for other equipment that we are using around the world. Hitachi has a good reputation and is renowned for continuously developing its mining equipment.” After one year of production, Mário had nothing but positive feedback about the first two EX5500-6s. The availability was excellent and the quality of service and support had exceeded expectations. On this basis, it was decided that Vale would continue to operate Hitachi excavators at Moatize, so another EX5500-6 and two EX8000-6s were The EX8000-6 offers a quiet working environment ordered to assist with the expansion of production.
14 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV The EX8000-6s and EX5500-6s are subjected to one of Africa’s harshest environments, where temperatures exceed 50°C
GROUND CONTROL 15 Job site
The first EX8000-6 was assembled in 19 days The installation team on the second EX8000-6
The EX8000-6 is such a rare piece of equipment that there is even parts and components within a short time frame, and we are very more emphasis placed on the dedicated support of Hitachi to help satisfied. The operating rate exceeds the guaranteed level of 89 per meet production targets than with any other machine. “The high level cent, and thanks to this, the whole project is going well.” of on-site support is an extremely important aspect of operating Hitachi Construction Machinery (Mozambique), Ltd.’s Maintenance Hitachi excavators,” adds Mário. “The conditions in Mozambique are Supervisor Sergio Campos manages the support team of 20 so tough that the maintenance and service are crucial to our operation. personnel at Moatize. He has worked in the mining industry for more “Hitachi supplies the parts and service for the excavators. As than a decade and with Hitachi for the past two years. The key roles of Mozambique doesn’t have a good infrastructure or people with the supervisor, technician and electrician are covered across the four shifts required experience and expertise, this places even more emphasis to cover mainly preventative and corrective maintenance procedures. on the relationship with the manufacturer. If we didn’t have a good “It’s a huge challenge because the machines are of course working system in place with Hitachi, then it would be very difficult to maintain non-stop,” says Sergio. “We therefore have to inspect the machines our production levels. on a daily basis at every available opportunity, such as when there is “The availability of both models has been excellent as a result of this a shift changeover. support. The interface with the Hitachi team is second to none and “The extreme heat at Moatize can cause some issues, for instance we enjoy a good level of communication. Also, if you compare Hitachi with the air conditioning. Overall, the working conditions dictate that models with other excavators, the design and layout are good, which the radiator and cooler need to be kept as clean as possible. The coal is especially useful for replacing parts and general maintenance.” dust particles are very small and can get everywhere. Mr Sales echoes these comments: “We are also using Hitachi “I’ve worked in other countries and the main issues in Mozambique machines in Brazil and therefore know about their high quality. The are with logistics and personnel. So, we need to make sure that we support service for this mine is also particularly good. We can obtain prepare well, plan ahead and prioritise our training procedures.
16 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV “If a part weighs over 200kg for example, then it is not possible already had one year’s experience operating the EX5500-6 before to use air freight. That means that it would take seven days to reach progressing on to the EX8000-6. Moatize over land due to the paperwork required and other “It gives me a lot of pleasure to work with the EX8000-6 and I am problems, such as those encountered at border crossings. So, we still very excited when I go to work every day,” enthuses Arlindo. have to determine how many parts are required for each machine “I’ve had invaluable training from Vale and Hitachi, and I was lucky and keep a good stock of the key items on site.” to be selected as one of the best operators to work on these huge Training is not only required for looking after the huge Hitachi machines. mining machines, but also for operating them. This is a long and “I find that the EX8000-6 is very fast and of course comfortable, complicated process, and the best trainees graduate with a high especially with the air conditioning in these conditions. It’s very level of concentration and knowledge of the stringent safety stable, incredibly powerful and strong. The best feature for me is procedures in place. that it offers a quiet working environment, which is so important The man responsible for training at Moatize is Leonam Cancela. when loading dump trucks in the pit.” He’s been an operator with Vale for a decade and has been Recent investments in mining and infrastructure for huge projects training new recruits for the past three years. Having operated an such as Vale’s Moatize coal mine have had a positive effect on EX2500 in Brazil and the EX5500-6 and EX8000-6 since arriving in Mozambique’s economy. Although it will take many years of sustained Mozambique, he is certainly well qualified for the role. growth to complete its recovery process, the country has the “It takes six months to fully train an operator from novice status, opportunity to dig deep into its natural resources with large-scale although it depends on his natural ability of course,” Leonam says. support from companies such as Hitachi. “The training includes an induction on Vale, health and safety issues, the importance of the environment and technical procedures. They To see a movie of the EX8000-6 giant must understand how everything works, because this can be of excavator working in Mozambique, please visit invaluable assistance to the support crew.” www.youtube.com/user/HitachiConstruction. Arlindo Sitoe is one of the fortunate few who have made it to the To receive a digital version of Ground Control unrivalled status of EX8000-6 operator. The 24-year-old Mozambican with new movies, please register online at completed his training programme with some distinction and www.igroundcontrol.com/subscribe/english
Muskeg River oil sands mine, A rare species: the EX8000 world map 1 Alberta, Canada (four) Horizon oil sands mine, 2 Alberta, Canada (two)
Jackpine oil sands mine, 3 Alberta, Canada
Brule coal mine, 5 4 British Colombia, Canada 4 3 Wolverine zinc mine, 1 2 5 Yukon, Canada Moatize coal mine, 6 Tete, Mozambique (two)
Jellinbah coal mine, 7 Queensland, Australia
Callide coal mine, 8 Queensland, Australia
Liddell coal mine, 9 New South Wales, Australia
Bulga coal mine, 10 New South Wales, Australia
6 7 8 9 10
GROUND CONTROL 17 Special feature
ZAXIS-5 PUT TO THE TEST The new Zaxis-5 range was launched to critical acclaim at the Intermat exhibition in April. Since then, these medium and large excavators have been distributed all over Europe by Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME). So, who better to ask for their initial impressions of these new machines than the first operators in Europe to put the latest Hitachi technology to the test
“All of this makes life much easier for the operator”
“Our demolition company owns two ZX350LCN-3s, with a third one due to be delivered soon. I have operated excavators for around 25 years and currently run KS Engineering with my business partner Tobias Kuhn. In today’s competitive market, Hitachi products represent excellent value for money, especially in terms of reliability and minimal downtime.
“The ZX350LC-5 is the replacement for our existing model and its superior power and handling characteristics are what we would expect from Hitachi. The cab is really comfortable, the Manfred Schöllhorn, ZX350LC-5, KS Engineering, Germany, interior is very modern and the technology is similar to what demolishing a former US military base in Augsburg youwould find in a car.
“The most impressive feature is the ergonomic design of the control panel and LCD monitor. It is so easy to operate the air conditioning, rear-view camera and other functions. All of this makes life much easier for the operator.”
18 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV Robert Hahn, ZX670LCH-5, Schön + Hippelein, Germany, excavating overburden in the Calcitwerk Heidenheim quarry
“The loading cycle is fast even when emptying the bucket”
“I’ve been operating excavators for 20 years and have spent the last two of these working with Schön + Hippelein. This has included recent experience of a ZX470LCH-3 and ZX670LCH-3, which I found to be well suited to quarrying.
“The ZX670LCH-5 is powerful and offers excellent handling capabilities for loading rocks on to EH750 dump trucks. The cab is spacious, there is more than enough legroom and the seat is comfortable. The control panel is similar to that of a car – it is so easy to understand the functionality and operate the monitor.
“Productivity is so important in a quarry and that’s why I think the speed of the swing mechanism is the best thing about the ZX670LCH-5. It only takes four passes to fill one of the trucks and the loading cycle is fast, even when emptying the bucket.”
GROUND CONTROL 19 Special feature
“The changes between the old and new Zaxis excavators are all positive”
“I’ve been an excavator operator for 30 years and have worked with two other Hitachi models before experiencing the new ZX250LC-5: a ZX160W and ZX210-3. I’ve always been impressed by these high-quality machines – they’re very stable and reliable.
“My initial impressions are that the changes between the old and new Zaxis excavators are all positive. The hydraulics are especially good and I’m also very happy with the swing torque and the enhanced performance of the engine.
“In my opinion, the whole package counts when you’re operating an excavator, but with long days on job sites such as this, then comfort comes first. The ZX250LC-5 doesn’t disappoint: the seat is comfortable; the controls are within easy reach; and there’s less noise and more legroom in the cab.” Andres Sœtre, ZX250LC-5, Trafikk & Anlegg AS, Norway, earthmoving on the E18 road between Sandefjord and Tønsberg
20 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV “I feel like I’ve got three arms when I’m at the controls”
“With more than 25 years as an operator, and the past 17 years working with Hitachi products, my experience of Zaxis excavators has been very positive. The reliability is excellent and Hitachi excavators just keep going to deliver high levels of productivity and minimal downtime.
“The new ZX870LCH-5 is more luxurious than the previous model, with increased legroom and overall comfort. The colour monitor provides more access to useful information and the ergonomic Frans Maenhout, ZX870LCH-5, Jan de Nul, Belgium, offloading rocks control panel is much easier to use. into the Albert Canal between Antwerp and Liège
“The best feature of this machine is that it is very precise. When you move the joystick, the excavator does exactly what you want it to To see a movie of the new Zaxis-5 range do. This is invaluable on projects such as this and I feel like I’ve got working on various job sites, please visit three arms when I’m at the controls.” www.youtube.com/user/HitachiConstruction. To receive a digital version of Ground Control with new movies, please register online at www.igroundcontrol.com/subscribe/english
GROUND CONTROL 21 Industry solutions
URBAN LEGENDS Two of the first Hitachi clamshell telescopic excavators to work in the UK were selected for excavation on complex projects in central London. Completing the work safely and on schedule, they had a deep and positive impact on owners, operators and contractors
he demand for special application machines, such as the The Carey Group was established in 1969 by Chairman John THitachi ZX225USRLC-3 and ZX350LC-3 fitted with clamshell Carey and his brothers, Pat and Tom. It specialises in demolition, telescopic arms, is rising in cities across Europe. To cater for the civil engineering, concrete structures, building and environmental needs of growing populations in urban areas, where space to solutions, and works on projects throughout the UK and Ireland. expand is a rare commodity, construction projects below ground More than 70 of its employees were working on the World level are increasingly common. Conservation and Exhibition Centre project. Two ongoing projects in central London highlight the successful The company invested in the Hitachi ZX225USRLC-3 following application of these machines, which were supplied by the official a visit to Düsseldorf in October 2011 to see a similar model UK Hitachi dealer, HM Plant. The safety, productivity and reliability working on an underground car park. HM Plant Operations of the excavators were fundamental for both sites: the construction Director David Hearne organised the trip with the help of Kiesel, of the World Conservation and Exhibition Centre; and Crossrail, a the official German Hitachi dealer. new railway for London and the south east of England. “Pat Carey and Sean O’Donnell were so impressed with its performance that they immediately ordered the excavator for Safe and reliable this job,” said Mr Hearne. “They were particularly impressed by Work on the World Conservation and Exhibition Centre involved the compact size of the machine, which makes it suitable for excavation of several basement levels belonging to the neighbouring working at pavement level on busy, urban sites and within small British Museum between autumn 2011 and summer 2012. The hoardings.” Carey Group was responsible for completing the excavation to The sliding cab is an important feature for job sites such enable the construction of five storeys below ground level. They as the World Conservation and Exhibition Centre. “The cab is will house scientific research facilities, storage and study rooms positioned 700mm further forward than on a conventional Hitachi when the Centre opens in 2014. excavator,” explains Mr Hearne, “and it has the capacity to slide The ZX225USRLC-3 with clamshell telescopic arm removes material from depths of 21m below ground level Industry solutions
a further 1,300mm forward, allowing for an additional two metres of visibility through the glass floor.” Between January and June 2012, the Carey Group used the Hitachi ZX225USRLC-3 fitted with a 21-metre clamshell telescopic arm to remove material from below ground at the site. Equipped with a 0.8m3 bucket, it loaded an average of 45 trucks a day. The trucks transported the material, known as ‘London blue clay’, to Margate in Kent, approximately 110km south east of the city, where it was used to reinstate a landfill site. Carey Group Assistant Project Manager David Kyari explained the importance of the machine’s productivity: “It takes approximately 12 minutes to fill each truck; eight seconds for the arm to extend and ten seconds for it to retract. It’s important for the process to be as fast and smooth as possible, as the trucks are not allowed to queue on the street adjacent to the site, due to parking restrictions and emissions regulations.” Without the Hitachi ZX225USRLC-3, the process would be slower and less safe. “We would have to use skips, conveyor belts and a crane to lift the skips to remove the material, which would then have to be stockpiled on site,” says Mr Kyari. “With this machine, we can do both the excavating and loading, and it is up to three times quicker than the traditional method.” “The use of tower cranes and skips would mean more moving parts to the process,” adds Mr Hearne, “which has implications for safety risks on such a busy site. Enhanced safety is one of the most important benefits of this excavator to the Carey Group, because it is always a top priority for the company.” The safe and smooth operation of the Hitachi excavator was also extremely quiet. This is another important consideration for inner-city projects because of its close proximity to offices, residences and the British Museum, which has remained open throughout the construction work.
Powerful and productive A short distance across London, two more clamshell telescopic Zaxis excavators were working on Crossrail, the largest
engineering project in Europe. It involves the construction of a new railway across the city, which will connect 37 stations including Heathrow Airport and Maidenhead in the west with Canary Wharf, Shenfield and Abbey Wood in the east. One of the project’s 20 job sites is the construction of the eastern ticket hall of the Bond Street Crossrail station at Hanover Square. Costain Skanska Joint Venture (CSJV) contracted the ZX350LC-3 and later the ZX350LC-5 from M O’Brien Plant Hire. They were required to carry out excavation work on two shafts, five storeys below ground, leading down to the level of the new train platforms. This work was necessary to prepare for the arrival of tunnel boring machines in late 2012. Between March and June 2012, the ZX350LC-3 – fitted with a 25-metre arm and 1.2m2 bucket – worked 24-hour shifts, seven days a week, removing material from the first shaft. It loaded a six-tonne dumper, which transported the materials to an on-site stockpile. A Hitachi ZX225USLC-3 then loaded the materials on to trucks for transportation off site. Completing the work on schedule was extremely important to CSJV and it conducted a test to compare the performance From left, Daniel and Michael O’Brien (M O’Brien Plant Hire) with of the Hitachi clamshell telescopic excavator against the use HM Plant Operations Director David Hearne and Costain Works of skips. Costain Works Manager Martyn Redsell explains: Manager Martyn Redsell “The excavator was three times quicker than using an 8m3 skip.
24 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV Using the ZX350LC-3 was three times quicker than using skips and cranes at the Crossrail site
The skips removed 13m3 per hour compared to 39m3 per hour for my company are the good service we receive from HM Plant removed by the Hitachi. By mid-May, we were four days ahead of and the machines’ strong residual value.” schedule.” The future of M O’Brien Plant Hire lies in providing a diverse and Operator Tony O’Sullivan, who works for M O’Brien Plant Hire, specialist range of equipment to meet the increasingly complex was also impressed by the performance of the Hitachi ZX350LC-3. and challenging requirements of today’s construction projects. “I was initially surprised at how stable it was, how far it could The demand for Hitachi telescopic clamshell excavators looks set reach and how much material it could bring up,” he said. “I found to grow in accordance with this trend, and HM Plant sees great it easy to operate, it has smooth hydraulics and it’s comfortable, potential in this product category. “These machines are becoming too. Compared to other brands of machinery I’ve worked with, the standard way to do this kind of work now,” says Mr Hearne. Hitachi is Mr Reliable.” Following their work in London, the ZX225USRLC-3 and For Tony’s employer, Michael O’Brien, the Hitachi clamshell ZX350LC-5 belonging to the Carey Group and M O’Brien Plant telescopic excavators have other advantages. “The benefits Hire respectively were scheduled to start on other projects include increased safety and flexibility in terms of where we can around the UK. As more construction companies see them in work. They give our company greater versatility; we can reach action, awareness of their capabilities will undoubtedly increase more customers with these machines.” The new ZX350LC-5 and extend their appeal for underground construction projects model, delivered in July 2012, has the additional advantages of even further. enhanced hydraulics and the stage IIIB low-emission engine. The family-run firm, based in St Albans, Hertfordshire, was To see a movie of the ZX225USRLC-3 working established by Michael and his wife, Annamarie, in 1991 with below the ground in London, please visit one machine. Today, it has a 100-strong fleet of Hitachi construction www.youtube.com/user/HitachiConstruction. machinery, ranging from the ZX29U-3 mini to ZX470-3 large To receive a digital version of Ground Control excavators. “We have found Hitachi excavators to be powerful, with new movies, please register online at www.igroundcontrol.com/subscribe/english robust and reliable,” says Michael. “The most important benefits
GROUND CONTROL 25 Technical focus
The new EH3500ACII powers up the 750m test track at the Kansanshi copper mine
26 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV THE DRIVE FOR ELECTRIC POWER
Ground Control visits one of the largest copper mines in the world to investigate the benefits of the new trolley assist system for Hitachi dump trucks. The massive Zambian project includes the installation of a new fleet of electric EH3500ACII models as part of a four-year expansion programme for the Kansanshi mine
lobal investment in mining increased by 40 per cent in 2011, largest in the world – with 1,635 employees (at the end of 2011) Gwhich was in line with the growing demand for precious and an estimated lifespan of at least 11 years. It operates 24/7 metals, such as copper and iron ore. There is a high concentration in a three-shift pattern. Eighty per cent of the mine is owned by of such natural resources in the southern part of Africa and Kansanshi Mining PLC (a FQM subsidiary) and the remaining 20 copper production is growing at a particularly high rate. per cent belongs to a subsidiary of ZCCM Investments Holdings, Various economic and political circumstances have curbed past 85 per cent of which is owned by the Zambian Government. investment in Africa. A good example is the long and expensive Mining is carried out in two open pits, which are known as route to the nearest port from the landlocked nation of Zambia. Main and Northwest. FQM uses conventional open pit mining However, the soaring prices of mineral resources – caused by methods and employs hydraulic excavators and a fleet of rigid high demand in China and other emerging countries – are helping dump trucks. the African market to gain momentum. Hitachi mining machines The line-up of large excavators includes a wide range of are supporting this development and are at the forefront of new Hitachi mining equipment, including: two EX1200-5s (with over and existing operations. 38,000 and 42,000 working hours respectively); four EX1900-5s First Quantum Minerals Ltd. (FQM) is an established mining (27-40,000); one EX1900-6 (over 14,000); and three EX2500-6s company currently operating three mines worldwide to produce (7-20,000). However, the fleet of 11 EH3500ACII trucks is the copper, nickel, gold and sulphuric acid. The company’s operations most recent addition to the Hitachi stable at Kansanshi, with include the Kansanshi copper and gold mine in Zambia, which is 2,000 to 6,000 working hours between them. located approximately 10km north of the town of Solwezi and John Coleshaw, FQM’s Project Manager, started working at 180km to the northwest of the Copperbelt town of Chingola. Kansanshi in 2010 and so wasn’t involved with the order for the Kansanshi is Africa’s largest copper mine – and the eighth large Hitachi excavators. “The EX1200s, EX1900s and EX2500s
GROUND CONTROL 27 Technical focus
Born in the Copperbelt, Collins Banda has been an operator with FQM for three years and has driven one of the EH3500ACIIs for over 12 months. His wife is also an operator, although she’s now more involved in training new recruits to master the mining machinery at Kansanshi. “I’ve always dreamt of operating such a big truck and the EH3500ACII is the best machine in my opinion,” says Collins. “It’s so comfortable, even over the roughest ground, and I find that I’m not as tired as I used to be at the end of my shift. The quality of the air conditioning, seat and suspension contribute to this feeling. It drives well on the haul roads, and is so powerful and fast enough to maintain a high level of productivity.” A number of projects are planned to expand annual copper production capacity from the 230,000 tonnes achieved in 2011 to a target of 400,000 tonnes by 2015. The $370million expansion programme will be implemented in three phases. Phase one comprises of the expansion of the treatment capacity of the oxide circuit by 20% to 7.2million tonnes throughput per annum. The $200million phase two is planned to increase the oxide treatment capacity to 15million tonnes per annum. Hugo Truter, Hitachi Construction Machinery (Zambia), Ltd.’s Phase three is planned to comprise of the construction of a Assembly Coordinator new sulphide concentrator with a planned annual throughput of 16million tonnes of ore, with the capability of expansion to 25million tonnes. were already here when I arrived,” he confirms. “These machines New additions to the mining fleet will also play a key role in the are quite old now, with some having accumulated more than expansion programme and some equipment has already been 40,000 hours. They have given good service and we can’t fault procured, including 23 new EH3500ACIIs. These purpose-built them. trucks are being supplied as part of a trolley assist package. This “Hitachi offered the only solution for electric-drive 180-tonne commenced in March 2012 with the installation of a 750m test trucks when we were in the market for these products two years track, including an overhead line and a new dump truck for trials ago. The EH3500ACII is a good machine and our operators are by Hitachi engineers. happy with their working environment. A main benefit of these The Assembly Coordinator for the Hitachi machines at models is the automatic retarding control to regulate the downhill Kansanshi is Hugo Truter of Hitachi Construction Machinery speed, which is excellent for safety and preserves the lifetime of (Zambia), Ltd. (HCMZ). He has much experience of the rigours the product.” of mining in Africa, having worked with Hitachi Construction
28 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV One of the existing EH3500ACIIs dumping overburden at the vast Zambian site
Machinery Southern Africa Co., Ltd. (HCSA) in a coal mine in the body; and one with the tyres. Northern Provence of South Africa since 2002. Four years later, “The advantages of using the trolley line are reduced running he moved to the Lumwana copper mine in Zambia, firstly as the costs – due to less fuel consumption – and the increased life Truck Assembly Coordinator for the delivery of 28 EH4500 trucks expectancy of the equipment,” explains Hugo. “There is also a and then as a Siemens technician. shortage of quality fuel in Africa and the new trucks will help to In 2009, he started working for what is now HCMZ’s branch save diesel for other applications. at Kitwe. “I was initially employed as the Site Manager, before “The electric trucks excel in environmental performance, in taking on the role of After-sales Development Manager,” says terms of achieving low emissions and noise levels. They also Hugo. “I’ve been involved with the assembly of the existing have a lower risk of breakdown, because they don’t need EH3500ACIIs, as well as the future development and assembly of a transmission and other such complex components. Their the new trucks when they are delivered. construction is more basic and they require fewer parts, which “The trials with the new truck on the trolley line have been going in turn means lower costs, less maintenance and consequently well. The line was supplied by Siemens to test the substations minimum downtime. and to see if it can take three trucks at the same time. It will be “These Hitachi EH3500ACIIs were selected for Kansanshi, maintained by FQM with an additional 2km running from the base because the whole truck is owned and designed by Hitachi. of the existing line to the bottom of the Main pit.” The customer wanted a reliable system that can be used as The design of electric dump trucks has become a more one complete unit. All the other trucks in the market have been simplified process since the turn of the century. Technological designed and built by the manufacturer, with the drive system innovation has opened the door for the powerful AC drive to supplied by a third party.” replace the traditional DC drive. The technologically advanced trolley assist system therefore Dump trucks with trolley assist require initial investment for allows a mining company such as FQM to increase its profits. incidental facilities, such as power sources and overhead power Needless to say, the reduction in running costs is a major factor in lines, but their power to climb slopes and acceleration are determining a mining company’s evaluation of a manufacturer and excellent. Fuel consumption is also about ten per cent lower than Hitachi has already shown that it is ahead of the competition in that of Hitachi engine-driven counterparts. this respect. The new trucks were scheduled to arrive from mid-July this year and be ready for full operation with the new trolley line by March 2013. After arriving disassembled from Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. in Japan, they were partially assembled in South Africa so that they could still be transported by road. To see a movie of the EH3500ACII rigid The journey from Johannesburg to the mine takes around 14 dump trucks working in Zambia, please visit days, partly due to the maximum travel speed of 80km/h and the www.youtube.com/user/HitachiConstruction. quality of the roads, which means that the trucks have to zigzag To receive a digital version of Ground Control through each country. It takes three trucks to move each partially with new movies, please register online at www.igroundcontrol.com/subscribe/english assembled EH3500ACII: one to carry the frame; one with the load
GROUND CONTROL 29 Dealer
FOCUSING ON CUSTOMER SOLUTIONS Nasta celebrates its 30th anniversary this year as the Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) dealer in Norway. Rather than reflecting too much on past achievements, the company is moving forward with a clear vision and enthusiasm for the new range of Zaxis excavators and ZW wheel loaders
Nasta’s Managing Director and CEO, Tom Johansen (left) and Sales Manager Henrik Anholt
Nasta employees help to ensure that customers reach their goals A ZX250LC-5 on test at a road construction site
founded by Søren Røed in 1929. His eldest son, Asbjørn, assumed responsibility in 1962 and he remained as Managing Director until Tom took over in 1999, having joined the organisation three years previously. Asbjørn and his brother, Finn, are still joint owners of Nasta. Just before the Second World War, the company secured the distribution rights for Austin cars and later entered the construction market in 1955 with International Harvester. In 1964, it added Toyota cars to its portfolio and this relationship lasted until 2005, when the car business was sold to concentrate on the construction industry. This connection with Japanese technology was reinforced when it became a Hitachi dealer in 1982. “When selling Hitachi products, we used to say that the brand was the Toyota of the excavator world,” says Tom. “This was especially effective with customers who were more acquainted with Toyota and we were able to capitalise on the link to reliability.” Nasta currently has 111 employees and the company’s absenteeism rate was only 2% in 2011 – well below the national average of 5.4%. It was also ranked second in the 2011 Vestfold Company of the Year poll and voted third most popular company in Larvik by the local business community. “Nasta’s main commercial aim is to be an efficient link between productivity and the job itself,” says Tom. “We should also make a significant contribution to ensure that our customers reach their goals. Our employees help to achieve this by enjoying their role of delivering quality products and services, which in turn provide asta was the new name given to the company formerly known Nasta with a competitive advantage. Nas Nanset Standard at the beginning of last year. The fresh “Our core values are to be resolute and adapt to changing corporate identity coincided with the move to an impressive conditions within the market by looking for and securing new 38,000m2 €10million site near Larvik in the county of Vestfold, commercial opportunities. This means that everyone is empowered 100km southwest of Oslo. to make their own decisions, especially when consulting with “We decided to move and change the company name at the same customers. We believe that this is one of the main factors behind time,” explains Nasta Managing Director and CEO Tom Johansen. our low staff turnover and absenteeism rates.” “Our goal was to modernise the identity: Nanset was the place where Nasta’s new base is unique in the Norwegian market – due to the company originated and we had moved away from that area; its size and range of in-house services – and provides Hitachi with and Standard Oil was rebranded in 1977, and we had stopped the ideal platform from which to promote its corporate strapline of selling the product. “Reliable solutions”. The construction machinery sector in Norway “So, the name change seemed a logical step after leaving the peaked in 2007 at 3,639 units, but this figure dropped by 55% in former location and product behind. After the creative process, we 2009 in the aftermath of the recession. However, Nasta was able decided to combine the two old words and create Nasta from the to ride the storm by gaining a 25% market share in the same year. first two and three letters of Nanset and Standard respectively.” In 2011, it sold 400 new machines – an increase of 50 units from The company has every right to be proud of its past after being the previous year – to record a turnover of €77million. Around Dealer
Nasta places a huge emphasis on after-sales
20% of this figure comes from special application machines and As well as expanding into a new head office, Nasta has developed the largest ever excavator delivered by Nasta was an EX2500-6 its service network. There are five other branches – with office, installed on a pontoon in February 2011. Other examples of the workshop, parts and stockyard facilities – in Lillestrøm (Tuen), dealer’s specially adapted equipment include a ZX225USLC-3 for Bergen (Espeland), Stjørdal, Kristiansand and Vestnes, and a total railway applications and a ZX190W-3 for tunnels. of 36 mobile service units providing national coverage. “If a customer needs something special, then we want Nasta “Nasta places a huge emphasis on after-sales, so that we could to be considered as a viable option,” says Sales Manager Henrik survive off the revenue from this sector of the business, even if we Anholt. “We pride ourselves on focusing on customer solutions. don’t sell a single excavator,” adds Henrik. “That’s very important, Our facilities here are second to none with spacious service, special because we don’t know when to expect the next drop in the market. application, welding, refurbishment, paint and washing areas. This Our aim is to reach a level of 60% of new machines being supplied wide range of services makes it more interesting for technicians with a service contract in 2012. and presents them with invaluable experience and fresh challenges. “Almost half of after-sales revenue comes from Hitachi Parts This will also help to develop their skills.” and these are of course included within the service contracts.
The wide range of services provides technicians with invaluable experience
32 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV Some of the Nasta team outside their impressive head office near Larvik
Our proactive approach to maintenance enhances the life of the and Volkswagen distributors, in which each party invited key machine, with less downtime. This in turn leads to our goal of customers to test an impressive fleet of automotive and commercial complete customer satisfaction.” vehicles, and construction machinery. Nasta divides the country into the different territories for sales and The exhibition, held every three years in May, was the perfect service. The sales regions are segmented according to the postal launch pad to promote Nasta’s modern corporate identity, as well system, which is based on the main routes for transportation. This as the innovative new range of Zaxis-5 excavators and ZW wheel makes it easier for the salesmen to manage their time and visit each loaders. Some customers had the opportunity to test a ZX250LC-5 customer on a regular basis. medium excavator in advance of the show, and the reaction was While general construction is the most popular industry sector, extremely positive. there are signs that there will be increased demand from the rental “We have assessed the feedback of the operators, who have and quarrying sectors. The Norwegian Government is also making completed a questionnaire after trying out the new Zaxis-5 a significant investment in infrastructure through the National machine,” says Henrik. “This has been hugely positive and we have Transport Plan 2010-2019. also used the ZX250LC-5 for sales and technical training.” This initiative includes: 350km of national roads being upgraded; When asked to summarise the future prospects of the Norwegian 230km of national roads being converted to four lanes; 500km of market, Tom concludes: “Nasta has always had a close working new footpaths and cycle paths; and 144km of new railway track, relationship with Hitachi. We are very happy with the level of 116km of which will be two-way. support, which has helped us to maintain a leading position for the “There are many projects in the pipeline or that have already crawler excavators. started,” explains Henrik. “So, we are optimistic about continued “Our partnership with HCME means that we are seen as one of growth in the market over the next three years at least and we the major players in Norway. The reputation enjoyed by the Hitachi expect there to be an increase of 10-15% in 2012.” product range and Nasta’s improved organisational structure mean The demands of the construction industry are also shaped by the that we are in an excellent position. We are aiming to capitalise on country’s characteristics. Norway has the lowest population density the positive outlook and increase our market share, especially in in Europe after Iceland, so there is a need for versatile equipment other product groups.” that can cater for more than one application. In addition, the harsh climatic conditions, poor soil quality and difficult terrain lead to tough working conditions for machinery and the requirement for them to be durable. To see a movie of the ZX250LC-5 working Two events dominated Nasta’s activities this year: Vei og Anlegg on the roads in Norway, please visit (Road and Construction Site) 2012, Norway’s largest construction www.youtube.com/user/HitachiConstruction. exhibition, which had an appropriate theme of “tough machines and To receive a digital version of Ground Control future solutions” to match the Hitachi dealer’s current promotional with new movies, please register online at www.igroundcontrol.com/subscribe/english requirements; and a three-way cooperation with the local Scania
GROUND CONTROL 33 Industry solutions
MOBILE LIFTING POWER Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. (HCM) and Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd. (SHI) have had long and successful histories in the crane market. They have become even stronger since they joined forces to create Hitachi Sumitomo Heavy Industries Construction Crane Co., Ltd. (HSC) and manufacture a range of crawler cranes that have proved invaluable to owners and operators alike
A Heerema barge waiting to be loaded by a Hitachi Sumitomo crane
CM launched the world’s first fully hydraulic crawler crane – Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) International Sales. Hthe KH150 – in 1971, with the KH series being superseded by “Historically, SHI’s expertise has extended to large cranes, while the CX series in 1994. SHI was founded in 1963 and began to sell HCM has been focused on smaller models of up to 100 tonnes of mechanical truck cranes a year later, before introducing hydraulic lifting capacity. truck cranes in 1970. “Hitachi has also had dealer representation in The Netherlands The two companies’ crane departments merged to form HSC in since 1972 so it has a high level of knowledge and experience in the October 2002. HCM and SHI each have a 50% share in the joint European market. The launch of the Hitachi Sumitomo SCX series venture, which specialises in the manufacture, sales and support of coincided with the opening of the HCME factory in Amsterdam Hitachi Sumitomo crawler cranes and auxiliary equipment. in October 2002 and so HSC has been able to integrate with the The current model line-up consists of the SCX series, which was dealer network for construction machinery.” unveiled in 2003 with the launch of the SCX900-2 and SCX1200-2. HSC’s strongest markets are Belgium, The Netherlands and Since then, the range has expanded to include 12 products – UK, and most sales are generated from large rental companies. from the SCX400T to the 6000SLX – covering lifting capacities of The prospect for future growth comes from the erection of between 40 and 550 tonnes. windmills in the renewable energy market and general construction “Hitachi is one of the main manufacturers that sell both crawler requirements within the power generation industry. cranes and construction machinery,” says Martin Visser of Hitachi “Hitachi Sumitomo has an excellent reputation for quality,
34 Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV Heerema operator Hans Bezenber Martin Visser, HCME International Sales power and reliability,” adds Martin. “These models have a long life two years ago and I’m very happy with how easy it is to use,” he expectancy of more than 20 years and it is not unusual to come explains. “The tilting cab has been integrated well into the design across an old KH machine with 25 to 30 years’ service! Operators of the crane and is extremely comfortable. The main advantage for also find that the latest SCX range offers a comfortable working me is that I’m not so tired at the end of an eight-hour working day.” environment and user-friendly control panel.” The comfort of the cab is a recurring theme among operators, Hitachi Sumitomo crawler cranes offer excellent mobility over while the reliability of Hitachi Sumitomo cranes is the number one soft surfaces and can be used across a broad range of applications, benefit according to owners and rental customers across Europe. ranging from civil engineering to port cargo handling projects. A The growing popularity of these powerful machines is the result of typical example of a company benefiting from these products is successful collaboration between HCM and SHI, and has proved Heerema Fabrication Group, which has five Hitachi Sumitomo mutually beneficial for both companies. cranes operating at its Vlissingen-Oost yard in the south west of The Netherlands. Heerema specialises in the engineering and manufacturing of large and complex structures for the offshore oil and gas and energy-related industries. This 200,000m2 strategically located coastal site allows the company to have access to 720m of quayside, with 450m of this available for large load-outs. The first of Heerema’s Hitachi Sumitomo cranes was delivered ten years ago and it currently has two SC2000s, one SCX2500 and two SCX2800-2s. They are used to: aid the construction process by lifting large components into place for oil platform jackets; and to load heavy assembled equipment on to barges. Crane operators need to undergo a training programme and receive a special licence before they can begin work. There is no substitute for experience though and 66-year-old Hans Bezenber has been an operator for 35 years, the last three of which have been spent with Heerema. “Hitachi Sumitomo cranes are exceptional machines,” enthuses Hans. “I have worked with other brands in the past, but the comfort and flexibility of the SCX series is second to none. They are easy to manoeuvre with the joysticks, and are fast and precise thanks to the hydraulics. The tilting cab is also beneficial. “I’m very happy with the overall package offered by Hitachi Sumitomo. They provide a strong and stable base from which to perform everyday tasks, and are extremely mobile on the sandy and often damp conditions at this site. It’s also possible to lift at the same time as the machine is moving, which means that it finishes jobs much faster than an alternative machine.” Another Hitachi Sumitomo crane operator, Guido Olivier, has 19 years’ experience of operating cranes. He has worked with Hye, a leading Belgian waterworks company that specialises in coastline and canal construction projects, for the past 17 years. Guido is operating Hye’s SCX2800-2 on a pontoon as part of a project to widen a marina at the port of Zeebrugge. The Hye SCX2800-2 on the marina at Zeebrugge “I’ve been working with this machine since it was delivered new
GROUND CONTROL 35 NEW NEW
Black/grey jacket for kids Grey/black backpack A new jacket with hood which is waterproof, breathable and Grey/black backpack with lots of storage, double zips, windproof. Taped seams and soft touch. padded back and refl ective piping. Also available for adults. Now available at www.hcmewebshop.com
NEW NEW Grey/black sports bag Lamy Pur pen and pencil set Large compartment with zip, two side pockets and two Aluminium pencil with 0.7mm lead and aluminium rollerball handles that can be held together using a Velcro strap. pen, with metal tip, highly polished clip and exchangeable giant black rollerball refi ll. Leather case included.
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