Plantworx 2015

Plantworx is billed as "The UK's dedicated working construction exhibition" and it certainly lived up to it's billing. The event which is held once every two years hosts an array of live exhibits from the biggest names from the world of plant machinery. Not only could you see what's new, you could also try out a large array of machines in live demonstration plots.

Below are some of my highlights from this year's Plantworx.

Komatsu impressed the crowds with it's PC210 LCi paired with Komatsu's unique intelligent Machine Control. Here the operator was demonstrating the machine's automatic real time digging control, which allows the operator to set the dig depth.

Once the depth has been programmed, the machine will not allow the operator to dig below that depth. Komatsu claim that this system "improves site safety" and "drastically improves efficiency"

Wacker Neuson had on display innovative solutions for working on difficult terrain. The 50Z32 excavator shown below was displaying their vertical digging System (VDS) which enables tilting of the superstructure by up to 15° which in turn can compensate for slopes up to 27%.

Another piece of equipment that caught my attention was the  RTSC3 smart remote-controlled vibratory trench roller. This little machine is ideal for "the compaction of excavations and sub bases of foundations"

Speaking of little machines, the Giant SK251D on display is surely one of the smallest loaders you can buy. What the SK251D lacks in creature comforts and size it more than makes up for in versatility. On display were an number of attachments which make their range of small loaders incredibly useful and versatile pieces of kit. 

Amongst the larger machinery on display were the new Hyundai HL960 and HL970 range of wheel loaders, with the new 18 tonne HL960 making it's world debut. The new loader is powered by a Stage IV 168 kW Cummins QSB6.7 engine, has a new cabin and comes complete with a new electro-hydraulic joystick which replaces the hydraulic joystick fitted to previous loaders