|
        
|
|
Executive Report: JCB powers up JCB has launched a range of generators, including six developed specifically for hire, 40% of which are powered by the company’s own 444 diesel engine. In recent years JCB, the best-known name in construction plant manufacturing, has fully embraced the tool and equipment hire industry. Led by an ever-increasing array of compact plant in the form of micro and mini excavators, tracked carriers and skid steer loaders, JCB further extended its offering to our industry with the purchase of Vibromax compaction equipment last September. Representing its first major acquisition in more than 40 years, the addition of Vibromax offers hirers a range of rammers and plates, as well as larger rollers. In what many observers considered a surprise move, JCB has now further expanded its portfolio of equipment targeted at our industry with its entry into the generator market. The company is offering a range of 42 diesel-powered units available in 18 power nodes stretching from 15-500kVA, available as single or three phase at 50Hz. All power sizes are available as open units or with sound attenuated canopies. The sets are manufactured for JCB by a third party, stated by industry experts as being based in Northern Ireland. According to Richard Butler, Sales Director, JCB Power Systems, “we are entering the world of power generation and will focus on the industrial market with our 50, 60, 80 and 100kVA units. JCB’s own 444 diesel engine is the platform for this development and it will power these mid-range generators which account for 40% of UK demand.” Smaller sets are powered by Deutz diesel engines while larger generators incorporate Sisu and Scania diesels. Newage alternators are used throughout the range. Six hire market sets Six models have been specifically developed for the hire market. With power outputs of 27, 50, 80, 100, 130 and 200kVA, these ‘G’ range models feature a 24-hour fuel tank, 110% bunded base, fork sockets, single lift point, Racor fuel/water filter, 4-pole circuit breaker with earth leakage, 3-way fuel valve, earth leakage protection and multiple sockets. A standard feature of the range is the digital control panel, which comprises an event log, alarm list, real time clock, maintenance call and something called engine ‘ECU-CAN’ support, including fault-code diagnosis, which additionally gives the ability to be operated remotely via a GSM modem connection. Richard Butler contends “the JCB engineering hallmarks of build quality, design innovation and structural reliability are integral to the overall design. All canopies are manufactured from heavy-duty galvanised steel with a polymer powder coating for rust-proofed protection and all daily checks and service points are easily accessible.” The launch of these generators also provided the opportunity to tour JCB’s 444 engine manufacturing plant at Dove Valley Park, located about ten minutes away from its Rocester Head Office. Opened as recently as November 2004, and developed at a cost of £80m, this facility is now producing 100 engines each day. The mid-range 444 engine is based on a 1.1litre per cylinder design concept, with a four cylinder in-line layout and four valves per cylinder, hence the designation 444. According to JCB Group Engineering Director, Dr. Tim Leverton, “more than half of all JCB machines are powered by the 444 engine, which was developed specifically for off-highway use. Operators have applauded the 444’s greater torque at lower engine speeds, low noise levels and excellent fuel economy. This ‘future-proofed’ engine has been designed to meet all forthcoming emission and noise legislation with the minimum of design change. This will be a major benefit as most current engines will need significant adaptation in order to comply.” New machines fitted with 444 engines will undoubtedly be highlighted on JCB’s stand at the Intermat exhibition in Paris later this month. With the company expecting to show over 220 machines, you can also be assured of two things. Firstly, that JCB will continue to develop its relationship with the tool and equipment hire industry and, secondly, EHN will be on hand to cover these launches for the next available issue. • Executive Hire News › Archives › April 2006 › Executive Report › JCB powers up
|
