Komatsu Superfan Nigel on using machine control

"I have been operating Komatsu machines for over 20 years, but only started using 3D Machine Control when I joined MJL Group 18 months ago."

Working on a major house building project, experienced operator and Komatsu super fan Nigel Avery is currently on a PC240LC fitted with Leica Geosystems machine control by dealer One Point Survey Equipment.

Peter Haddock caught up with him onsite to talk about his experience.

Nigel Avery has spent a lifetime operating machines, first getting in the seat with his dad when he was eight. So, when Matt Lugg, MD of MJL, asked him to start using machine control, he wasn't sure about the change. 

Nigel:  "I was very reluctant to take on machine control. I didn't think I'd get used to it at all. 

"But it's very good, and it makes life easier, and now I am used to it. It saves me a lot of time. I am also now helping the engineers with recording levels using my bucket and tablet.

"I wouldn't want to be without it now, and it makes it easier for everyone onsite. 

"My morning routine has also changed as I now get in the machine and turn on the tablet, and it will prompt me if a new model is available for download. 

"If this is the case, I just hit a button, and it uploads straight into the tablet, and I am ready to go.

Currently, Nigel is using the system constantly as the team places and removes layers of stone and material to allow for the correct installation of drainage and utilities. 

Nigel: "We are using this technique to prevent damage to the critical geotechnical membranes that we need to install.

"To complete this job, we lay down a running layer to reach the formation level, and then all the services are installed. 

"After that, we remove everything again to lay the geogrid and capping layer. It's all got to be done properly, or the drainage work could cut through the membrane."

"It's a quite intensive and detailed process that requires high levels of accuracy, as the materials used are expensive. 

"This is why we rely on machine control to get the right layers, and for me, it's a great guide, especially as we are working on a sloping plot."

It's great to see how Nigel and the team can use technology to not only ensure accuracy but also save on material use for this part of the project.