A series of earthmoving equipment manufacturers descended on Toowoomba in early June and showed off their wares at FarmFest Field Days
While FarmFest is traditionally an agricultural event, there was still plenty of new and exciting earthmoving machinery, attachments and equipment at the event in 2022. Our journalist Anthony Wingard was there to check out some of the highlights.
Hercules H1250 wheel loader – Brisbane Mini Excavators
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Fresh from gracing the cover of the last edition of Earthmovers and Excavators magazine, the Hercules H1250 wheel loader from the team at Brisbane Mini Excavators was a definite crowd-pleaser.
The H1250 is powered by a 180 horsepower (134kW) Cummins diesel engine and is the largest loader in Brisbane Mini Excavators’ wheel loader range. A load capacity of four tonnes further proves the machine’s pedigree.
The H1250 is known for its versatility and is capable of working across a range of sectors, including construction, general earthmoving and even agricultural applications, where it has shown its capabilities as a jack-of-all- trades loader.
Other features of the H1250 include an extra-large colour reversing camera and a cabin
that is 15 per cent larger than the standard size for a loader in its class.
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OTR tyre specials – ITR Pacific
The team at ITR Pacific has increased stock of its off-road tyre range,
which is customised using enhanced technologies to deliver excellent performance in difficult terrains.
The range includes five different models, each with their own specifications and pattern, from the smaller TM909A tyre, suitable for machines up to 4.125 tonnes, through to the biggest model – the EMR27, which boasts a maximum load of 32.5 tonnes.
The EMR27, designed for wheel loaders, graders, and articulated trucks, features a special pattern trench with horizontal coherence and gradual widening from the inside out to improve stability and self-cleaning.
Other features include the carcass design and shoulder groove bottom, which have both been strengthened to improve the lifespan of the tyres and protect machine rims from damage.
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AL996E wheel loader – Active Machinery
Powered by a turbo-charged, six cylinder, direct inject diesel engine, the 23.5-tonne AL966E produces 240hp (178kW), making it a powerful machine for earthmoving applications.
The AL996E features hydraulic quick hitch capabilities, a heavy-duty bucket with bolt-on cutting edge and an auto grease system as standard. Inside the
cab, operators can have peace of mind with the certified roll over protection structure cabin, integrated air-conditioning, and suspension seat.
For operators wanting more bells and whistles, a range
of additional buckets and attachments are available as extras, such as a four-in-one bucket, hay and bale forks, rippers and 5m stick rakes.
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FL933 wheel loader – Olympus Loaders
With a long wheelbase and large breakout and traction force, the FL933 articulated wheel loader is a reliable option for a range of earthmoving requirements. Making up part of the Farm Master Series at Olympus Loaders, the FL933 excels as a versatile machine.
A newly-designed electrical system and upgrades made to the hydraulic system result in the FL933 boasting a load capacity of 3.3 tonnes in its 1.5 cubic metre bucket. The loader is powered by a 130 horsepower (92kW) Cummins or Deutz engine.
An auxiliary hydraulic function makes the FL933 a multi-purpose handling tool with
the machine able to change quickly between attachments, from buckets to pallet forks, as well as a range of hydraulic attachments.
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Fluid analysis service – Hastings Deering
To better maintain the cooling system of machines to meet the rigorous demands of modern diesel engines, Hastings Deering has devised an analysis service that can detect cooling system problems earlier.
Using the fluid analysis service, operators can detect problems early through the regular monitoring of fluids at Hastings Deering’s Fluid Analysis Lab in Brisbane – the largest of its kind in the world. Coolant samples are collected and forwarded to the lab, where they are analysed and tested.
Hastings Deering says the fluid analysis service can identify common cooling system problems such as thermostat malfunctions, water pump seal failure, corrosion of the water pump and short outs in the block heater.
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ZAXIS 210LC excavator – Hitachi Construction
Hitachi’s latest medium excavator offering has been built to last, with improvements made across the board. New hydraulic and engine oil monitoring systems aimed at reducing downtime are a standout feature of the 210LC, while further improvements to the TRIAS III hydraulic system also help reduce fuel consumption and boost efficiency.
Using Hitachi’s aerial angle camera system, visibility on the job site is vastly improved through a 270-degree bird’s eye camera. Operators can select between
six different image options to view the relevant part
of the machine’s surroundings – all presented on an LCD screen.
Under the hood, Hitachi have presented a new layout for components, making it easier and more convenient to access when maintenance is required.
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John Deere 772 GP grader – RDO Equipment
John Deere’s newest generation of graders comes packed with a host of new features, including SmartGrade technology, which comes fully integrated on all G-series grader models.
SmartGrade provides operators with assistance in achieving consistent and precise grading lines, using a sensing system inside the cylinder position and an integrated GPS system. John Deere also has an automation suite available as an optional extra on the SmartGrade models which further streamlines the grading process.
The 772 GP is a Grade Pro model, meaning further improvements have been made in the form of dual-joystick controls and further options on the SmartGrade technology. The 772 GP also features machine-damage avoidance systems, and auto-shift plus, which allows operators to work without using the inching pedal.
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5SKD8 skid steer – Toyota Material Handling Australia
A behemoth in the world of skid steers, TMHA’s 5SKD8 is designed for the job and made for the operator as a spacious cabin opening and impressive performance onsite.
The 5SKD8’s operating load of 650kg falls halfway between Huski’s skid steer range, which ranges from the smaller SKD4 (320kg) to the SKD11 (900kg). All models are powered by large-capacity and high pressure resistant HST motors.
Among the features of the 5SKD8 are a high lift capacity, assist grips, load handling pedal control, low vibration and low fatigue control levers, and a shock-reducing bucket feature.
Multiple safety interlock systems and a ROPS guard help ensure the operator’s safety inside the machine.
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Volvo EW60E wheeled excavator – CJD Equipment
Volvo CE’s EW60E is a versatile and powerful machine that can be tailored to a range
of applications. The six-tonne machine’s compact design mean it can work in confined spaces or a major construction area, or anywhere in between.
As a wheeled machine, the EW60E can reach speeds up to 30km/h and can travel on and off road with front axle locking.
The machine is powered by a 63.4hp (47.3kW) Volvo engine and has a lift capacity of 2.8 tonnes.
Among the features of the new EW60E is a larger cab design for improved operator comfort and a more productive operator environment.