Fuel prices focus minds on productivity at Plantforce Technology and Innovation Day

Peter Haddock caught up with Chris Matthew at the Plantforce new Wigan branch.

Chris: “With the current rise in fuel prices, we’ve used this event to engage with customers around machine control and technologies that improve productivity on site. Whilst announcing a new Hydrogen ADT project.

“By bringing multiple technology providers together in one place, customers can get under the skin of the technology, see how it works and how it will impact them on site. This helps them make informed choices.”

The event included a range of suppliers like 3D machine control and surveying specialist @leica geosystems. Xwatch also showcased its 3D collision avoidance safety solution. And safety providers Spillard Safety Systems Ltd, Safety Shield Global and FTC Safety Solutions demonstrated Human Form Recognition.

Plantforce also highlighted the productivity benefits of integrating tiltrotators from Steelwrist into machine controlled excavators. 

When it comes to Hydrogen, with OEM solutions still developing, the focus was on what can be done today, as Chris added:

“Following our involvement in the Element 1 programme, we’ve moved into the HyConstruct project, looking at integrating hydrogen into 30 tonne Rokbak ADTs to displace up to 30% of diesel consumption.”

“There’s a huge existing fleet in the UK, so retrofitting gives us an opportunity to reduce fuel use without waiting for new machines. So we are working together with BRE, BAM UK & Ireland, GeoPura and Ulemco on this project.”