Plant & Equipment | March-April 2021, Issue 245

March - April 2021

EQUIPMENT ON CALL

As contractors embrace rentals, Masaha Company is
well positioned with its large and modern rental fleet.

P30

AGILITY EQUALS ISSUE245
RESILIENCE
www.PlantAndEquipment.com
DLL Equipment Trading sustains
steady growth.
P26

MOVING FORWARD
DIGITALLY

Caterpillar launches three
large excavators.
P56

ALSO

MINI EXCAVATORS P34
ASPHALT PLANTS P44

QUALITY CHANGES THE WORLD

+965 2202 1290 [email protected]
+965 9400 7556 www.masahaglobal.com

HEAVY EQUIPMENT

BUILD FOR
SUSTAINABLE
BETTER LIVES

Cities help make life better, Zoomlion helps build better cities.
Find more details at: en.zoomlion.com

ZOOMLION GULF FZE [email protected] Scan To Talk With Us
en.zoomlion.com
A local footprint started from 2007 +971 4 8809048
+971 509823521
Covering area: 10,000m2 P.O. BOX 262120, Jebel Ali
Free Zone, Dubai, UAE
Business: machine, spare part, service, logistic, finance;

Product range: mobile cranes, tower cranes, concrete machinery,

earth moving equipment, piling machinery, AWP, etc.



GET MORE OUT OF

WHAT YOU DIG

TOUGH IS LiuGong’s line of excavators offers the performance you need and the flexibility
your projects demand. Designed to work hard on any jobsite, LiuGong’s
WHAT WE DO expansive line of excavators not only include compact machines for tight
quarters but powerful machines that can take on the toughest jobs. Providing
TOUGH WORLD. TOUGH EQUIPMENT. you the machines you require wherever you are working. Fuel efficiency
coupled with smooth operation lets you work to get your jobs done.

www.ahqmachinery.com

AL-QAHTANI VEHICLE & MACHINERY COMPANY

Tel: +966 13 8261477 Fax: +966 13 8269894 Email: [email protected]

BRANCHES Riyadh Jeddah Abha
+966 55 0552439 +966 50 3895025 +966 55 8566603
Dammam +966 55 2247321 +966 55 2247321 +966 55 2247321
+966 50 0531387
+966 55 2247321

Contents March - April 2021ISSUE

245

www.PlantAndEquipment.com

18 30
A COMPACT WINNER

A mini crane that can get inside small spaces,
can be loaded easily on top of a variety of
terrains, works better than a number of other
lifting systems? Jekko’s mini cranes do all of the
above, here’s a closer look.

22
LEADING WITH PURPOSE

Luck is defined as preparedness + opportunity.
UD Trucks had been prepared to face the
consequences brought on by the pandemic
from the day it began operations.

26
AGILITY EQUALS
RESILIENCE

Distinct business sectors have reacted uniquely
to the effects of the pandemic.

30 18 22
EQUIPMENT ON CALL 34
MARKET OVERVIEWS 44
Masaha Company for Rental of All Kinds of
Equipment operates one of the largest and 34
youngest equipment rental fleets in Kuwait, SMALL BUT POWERFUL
with increasing demand as contractors see the
benefits of renting – low capital costs, flexible Demand is growing for compact machinery,
fleet management and streamlined logistics. including mini excavators and compact
tracked loaders.
56
MOVING FORWARD
DIGITALLY

Mohamed Abdulrahman Al-Bahar
recently invited its clients and partners to
Caterpillar’s online launch of three of its large
excavators for the Africa, Middle East and
Eurasia region.

26

56 44
THE RIGHT MIX

As technical knowledge within the road
construction industry increases, contractors
are looking for cost-efficient asphalt plants
that produce high-quality mixes and are easy
to transport and erect.

6

Authorized Dealer in Saudi Arabia
‫الوكيل المعتمد في المملكة العربية السعودية‬

RIYADH DAMMAM JEDDAH
Eastern Ring Road Exit 17 Dammam Jubail Highway Road Exhibitions - Aljawharah
Toll Free: 920002395 Tel: +966 535687301 Tel: +966 539146796
Tel: +966 114714789

[email protected] www.dieselmachinery.com.sa

Middle East and Africa’s EDITORIAL Contributing Editor
Leading Construction Magazine Munawar Shariff
Contributing Editor Assistant Sales Manager
Never miss an issue. Stian Overdahl Kenny Ann
Subscribe for your copy of +971 4 5808026
ADVERTISING [email protected]
Plant & Equipment
Sales Director Graphic Designer
Email: [email protected] Sahar Chaplin Dan Fiesta
Call: +97145808020 +971 4 5808016 [email protected]
MEMBER OF [email protected]

PO Box: 71530, Dubai, UAE Regional Account Manager
+97145808020 Milad Akhtiar
+971 4 5808027
www.mesamediainc.com [email protected]

ARTWORK

Senior Graphic Designer
Adnan Shaik
[email protected]

ACCOUNTS

Senior Accountant
Pramila CS Kotian
[email protected]

Bringing the latest equipment
and construction news from
around the world.
SOCIAL MEDIA

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Plant & Equipment shall not be liable for trade names and trade marks used by
advertisers. No liability will be accepted for any loss occasioned by the failure of
any advertisement to appear from any cause whatsoever, or for any errors therein.
Advertisements are accepted subject to availability of space. If it is not possible
to insert advertisements in the issue requested, Plant & Equipment will use its
best endeavors to ensure that the advertisements are carried forward to the next
issue. One month notice is required in writing for the cancellation of any series of
advertisements.

No guarantee can be made on the positioning of advertisements unless a contract
in writing to such effect has been entered into between Plant & Equipment and the
advertiser.

Settlement Terms - Strictly payment in advance.

Copyright: Middle East Strategic Advertising

www.serialbox.me

THE ONLINE

Heavy Equipment Reference Guide
Over 1,000 Equipment Brands
Add Equipment Inspection
Reports & Photos
Auction Results

Call: +971 4 881 8878 | Email: [email protected]

MIDDLE EAST NEWS

SUCCESS

AL MASAOOD CV&E DIVISION HAS BEEN
AWARDED THE UD TRUCKS MEENA IMPORTER
OF THE YEAR

Al Masaood Commercial Vehicles & Equipment (CV&E) closed several deals with its strategic customers such as Al
Division has been awarded the ‘UD Trucks MEENA Importer of Ain Coop, Trojan, Western Bainoona Group, and many more.
the Year 2020’ at the ‘Annual UD MEENA Partner’s Conference But its most prominent agreement in 2020 was a deal of six
2020.’ The award was given after the division demonstrated UD Trucks Quester 6x4 units with Emarat Aloula Contracting
a strong performance in 2020 despite unprecedented difficult (EAC). All six units, equipped with COMB tankers, will be
market circumstances. The event also took note of the deployed to serve EAC’s wide network in Abu Dhabi.
division’s new strategies for 2021 to help it thrive under the
prevailing global situation. Mohamed El Zeftawi, General Manager at Al Masaood CV&E,
said: “This award is not only a testament to Al Masaood
The year 2020 saw the division embarking on numerous CV&E’s resiliency and commitment, but, more so, it reflects
initiatives to help the UAE Government fight the raging the dedication, hard work and persistence of our employees.
pandemic. It supported the government’s National Sterilization Without them, this achievement would not have been
Program, with its team of front liners working full-time to possible. Our appreciation goes to the entire Al Masaood
provide on-ground essential maintenance and periodic checks CV&E team. We would also like to thank UD Trucks MEENA
for Lavajet’s fleet being utilized by Tadweer (the Centre of for its confidence and trust in us as evidenced by this award.
Waste Management - Abu Dhabi) wherever these trucks We look forward to continuously building our long-standing
were located. Additionally, in partnership with UD Trucks partnership, which was formed in 1981, in keeping with our
and Bridgestone, Al Masaood CV&E launched the ‘Serving mission to consistently transform the experience of our clients
our Heroes’ CSR campaign to educate truck drivers about
the importance of health and hygiene practices in the battle in the region.”.
against the spread of the coronavirus disease.

Apart from its pandemic-related campaigns, Al Masaood CV&E
Division also took part in the UD Trucks Extra Mile Challenge
as a host of the competition’s Abu Dhabi edition in January
2020. Under this extra mile challenge, the expertise and agility
of competing UD truck drivers were put to the test to take
their abilities to the next level and enhance their creativity
and innovative skills to improve their respective transport
operations. Further, it was this year that Al Masaood CV&E

DISTRIBUTORS

LINK-BELT ADDS NEW REPRESENTATIVE IN TURKEY

Link-Belt Cranes has finalized an agreement with NEFTAŞ of support for Link-Belt crane customers in Turkey.
Istanbul, Turkey, to be an authorized Link-Belt representative.
NEFTAŞ will provide comprehensive sales, parts and service “We are extremely pleased to have NEFTAŞ join our team.
Their dedication to providing value-added, high quality
services and reliable hi-tech products will be a tremendous
gain for crane customers in the area,” said Link-Belt Cranes
International Sales Manager, Roy Burger.

“Our mission has always been to provide quality products and
services for the development of our country. We look forward
to continuing our path of exceeding customer’s expectations
with Link-Belt Cranes,” said NEFTAŞ President, Mustafa Parlak.

NEFTAŞ territory will include all seven regions of Turkey, with

headquarters in Istanbul..

10

MIDDLE EAST NEWS

MARKET GROWTH

JOHNSON ARABIA EXPANDS ITS AWP FLEET AND
OPENS A SECOND BRANCH IN OMAN

After successfully navigating the tough markets in 2020, To further help this expansion, Johnson Arabia has increased
Johnson Arabia has proved to be a leader in the rental industry their sales and operations team and is exploring new project
and in now expanding its fleet. They are awaiting the delivery avenues, specifically in the oil & gas industry.
of 112 machines to complement their existing fleet across the
group. The up-to-date brand models include JLG and Genie. Gareth Conley, Executive Manager for AWP adds: “In spite of
the dip in utilization in 2020 we are seeing a higher demand
The investment by Johnson Arabia strengthens the company’s in the market. Along with the U.A.E. we have also welcomed
ambition to get to fleet size of 1,000 machines by the close an increase in requests in Muscat and Duqm in the oil & gas
of 2021. To help fulfil the growing demand, the majority of and construction sector. This increase in fleet is to not only
purchased machines will be delivered to their new location in supplement this demand but to also increase our footprint
Muscat, an existing location in Duqm and the remaining units
will be delivered to their headquarters in the UAE. in Oman.”.

“Since our move from Al Quoz to Dubai Industrial City in late
2019, we have been able to refine and modernize our already
impeccable service. This is mainly because of a new larger
workshop and new talented workforce that has joined the
team,” said Paul Farrell, Workshop Manager at Johnson Arabia.

In addition to this, the growth in Oman is also driven by the
fact that Johnson Arabia has already been a well-known name
in the rental industry there for about ten years for cranes and
has now started to focus equally on their AWP supply too.

NEW ADDITIONS

FLEET EXPANSION FOR MAMMOET IN THE
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA REGION

Mammoet, the world’s largest engineered heavy lifting and and Azerbaijan; with the regional headquarters in Dubai,
transport service provider, has expanded its fleet with the United Arab Emirates.
addition of eight cranes in the Middle East, Africa and Caspian
(MEA) region. A 600t crawler crane, a 400t, two 250t and 100t capacity
all-terrain cranes, as well as three 35t rough terrain cranes
Established in the region for over 40 years, Mammoet MEA have been added to the regional fleet. The expansion increases
provides equipment day hire through to turnkey mega-project Mammoet’s capacity in the region, complementing the diverse
solutions and is represented in eleven countries across the fleet of equipment for projects and day rental jobs, adding
region: United Arab Emirates, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, flexibility and greater availability for work in several high-
Qatar, Egypt, South Africa, Mozambique, Nigeria, Kazakhstan demand geographic areas.

The cranes will support Mammoet’s range of engineered
heavy lifting work – from small construction sites to handling
complex lifts in industrial plants. They will be available
for customers across all sectors including the power,
petrochemical, mining, renewables and civil construction
sectors.

Shortly after arrival, all cranes have been deployed on various
construction projects: a short term- substation transformer
installation and infrastructure construction activities

throughout the UAE..

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 11

MIDDLE EAST NEWS

REBUILD PROGRAMS

CAT UNDERGROUND WHEEL LOADER R1600G
USED IN KSA

The Cat Certified Rebuild Program (CCR) offers customer Saudi Arabia’s strict curfews and lockdowns. The operations
a chance to breathe a second life into their machines. and teams continued to work through exceptional times,
The machine is stripped completely and rebuilt using a challenges, maintaining the added safety measures to deliver
combination of new, reman and reconditioned parts in line the machine back on time and within the agreed schedule.
with Cat’s global standards of quality. A certified rebuilt
machine is delivered to the customer with a new serial number The machine was tested, delivered back to site and is in full
and a factory backed warranty.
production..
The largest underground mining customer, who is no stranger
to Zahid’s rebuild programs, had an accident on site; where
one of the tunnels collapsed on their Cat R1600 underground
wheel loader. Instead of writing off the machine, the Zahid
team assessed the machine and worked with their client to
have a successful CCR. The machine was received in the
certified Rebuild Workshop and underwent a rebuild with
over 4,000 labor hours going into it and 5,180 parts replaced
or reconditioned.

The major challenge on this specific rebuild was having
it carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic along with

FLEET ORDER

AL TAYER MOTORS DELIVERS FORD TRUCKS’
VEHICLES TO IMDAAD

Al Tayer Motors, the official Ford Trucks importer-dealer in the “In keeping with Imdaad’s commitment to creating value for
UAE, delivered Ford Trucks’ vehicles to Imdaad, a Dubai-based our clients and promoting sustainable operations, we are in
group of companies that provides integrated, sustainable constant pursuit of new technologies, tools, and equipment.
Facilities Management (FM) services. This agreement bolsters In the Ford Trucks 3542 series, we have found a fuel-efficient
Imdaad's waste management operations across the UAE. vehicle with a competitive cost of ownership complemented
by an excellent service package provided by Al Tayer Motors.
Senior members of the management teams of Al Tayer Motors, We are pleased to add these vehicles to our fleet to enhance
Ford Trucks, and Imdaad were present at the Farz materials our service delivery,” said Ashly Alex, Head of Business,
recovery facility in Dubai, during the handover of the first Ford Environmental Solutions, Imdaad.
Trucks to be inducted into the company’s fleet.
The Ford Trucks series offer an economical advantage with
reduced maintenance costs. Service periods extended up to
40,000km/800 hours will allow customers to have the
most competitive maintenance advantage across many
industry sectors.

Ford Trucks’ vehicles offer quality and durability. Designed for
the most demanding environments, with best-in-class sequence
and efficiency, an important feature in the new Ford Series is
the Automated Transmission option. With Off-road, Rocking
and Economy modes, the Automated Transmission option
assists drivers in keeping their vehicle sure-footed on virtually

any terrain..

12

HYDRAULIC EXCAVATOR

PC210- 10M0

Customer voice is our guiding light

At Komatsu, we leverage our tradition of manufacturing excellence and industry-leading technical insights
to develop products and services that deliver tangible benefits to customer operation. Our guiding light in
this endeavor is customer voice: illuminating the daily conditions that shape their equipment and
technology requirements.

For more information, please contact your local distributor

Bahrain Egypt Jordan Kuwait
Y.K Almoayyed & Sons Egyptian International Motors The Near East Equipment Co. Dar Al Hai General Trading &
+973 17 730 698 Co. LTD. (E.I.M.) (NEEC) Investment Co.
+20 2 506 1600 +962 6 581 2816 +965 247 12905
Oman
Saud Bahwan Projects & Qatar Saudi Arabia United Arab Emirates
Equipment Jaidah Motors & Trading Co. Abdul Latif Jameel Machinery Galadari Trucks & Heavy
+968 245 78000 +974 4463 8804 Trading Co. Equipment Co.
+966 9200 25543 +971 4 338 8800

https://home.komatsu/en/

MIDDLE EAST NEWS

DISTRIBUTORS

TEREX FINLAY ANNOUNCES NEW DEALER IN
LEBANON

Terex Finlay announced the appointment of M. Ezzat Jallad & addition of M. Ezzat Jallad & Fils S.A.L to the Terex Finlay
Fils S.A.L. (Jallad), to distribute and support the full line up network of dealers. Their ambition, experience and reputation
of Terex Finlay crushers, screeners and conveying equipment, will be invaluable in establishing Terex Finlay as the premier
with aftermarket support, in Lebanon. mobile crushing, screening and conveying brand in Lebanon.”

Jallad was founded in 1873 and have grown into the “We are proud to have been appointed the Terex Finlay dealer
premier supplier for construction, agricultural and industrial in Lebanon. We are a customer-centric company and our team
equipment in Lebanon. They are the authorized Caterpillar pride themselves in offering superior service and support to
dealer in Lebanon, Jordan and Palestine and recently, Jallad our customers. Terex Finlay have a fantastic equipment line
celebrated the proud milestone of successfully representing up that is complementary to our core product offering,” said
Caterpillar in the region for 90 years.
Khaled Sayfeddine..
In Lebanon, they operate from five branches and three state-of-
the-art workshop and service centres strategically positioned
to provide superior customer support across the country. They
also maintain a large rental fleet to service their customers.
The Terex Finlay product line will be managed by Khaled
Sayfeddine.

Announcing the agreement Neil McIlwaine, Terex Finlay
Business Development Director, noted: “We are excited by the

EXPANSION

GALADARI SIGNS DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT
WITH METSO OUTOTEC

Galadari Trucks & Heavy Equipment (GTHE) and Metso Samer Khalid, CEO of the Heavy Equipment Division at
Outotec have signed a distribution agreement that will see Galadari Brothers Co, noted that the agreement comes at a
both companies expand their presence in the region and bring very opportune moment for both companies. “The construction
more value to their customers. sector in the UAE, and the region, is picking up especially after
the recent agreement within the GCC countries, and this will
“The UAE is one of the biggest markets in the Middle East further provide a boost to the UAE economy,” said Khalid. “We
region with a large construction sector and a high demand for are proud to be part of this agreement and look forward to
aggregates. This partnership will enable both companies to create many great things that will happen in the crusher sector in the
a synergy that will serve the customers who seek no less than the coming months.”
best product offerings and services,” said Mohamed Yahya Kazi
Meeran, Director and Group CEO of Galadari Brothers. Karima Dargaud, Global Aftermarket Distribution Director at
Metso Outotec in EMEA, noted that Metso Outotec hopes to
“Both Galadari Brothers and Metso Outotec are highly-trusted strengthen its reach with the new partnership. “We are now
business groups and this partnership will witness more present in the region with our office in Dubai, but we felt that
milestones in our future journey,” added Meeran. we needed to improve our reach. With this partnership, we
hope to combine the local force with our global technology
expertise to better serve our aggregates customers. We are
currently looking to improve our presence in certain segments
such as demolition waste.”

Metso Outotec was created through the combination of Metso
Minerals and Outotec on June 30, 2020. The company is a
frontrunner in sustainable technologies, end-to-end solutions
and services for the aggregates, minerals processing, metals

refining and recycling industries globally..

14

NEXT IS
HAPPENING
RIGHT NOW
AT BOBCAT

We invented the compact equipment industry, and now we’re reinventing it.
Get the complete solution for any jobsite with our line-up of powerful and versatile machines:

R-SERIES BACKHOE LOADERS
M-SERIES COMPACT LOADERS
LIGHT COMPACTION RANGE
For more information, contact your local dealer or visit
www.bobcat.com

MIDDLE EAST NEWS

VERSATILE UNIT

VERSATILE GROVE GRT655L FOR SHIPBUILDER
ALBWARDY DAMEN

Albwardy Damen, a specialist shipbuilding and ship repair GRT655L models for the Middle East are manufactured at the
company in the Middle East, has added a GRT655L to its Manitowoc plant in Niella Tanaro, Italy. The crane has a 60t
collection of Grove rough-terrain cranes used at its facilities capacity and a five-section, 43m boom. Thanks to an optional
across the UAE. The crane’s combination of a strong load chart 7.9m to 13.7m telescopic boom extension, the GRT655L
and long reach mean the company can use it for both holding offers best-in-class reach of 59.7m. Other features include a
large components in place while ships are built or installing tiltable cab, inverted outrigger jacks, hydraulic disc brakes,
new sections on existing ships. load sensing hydraulics and an ECO mode for lower fuel
consumption.
Shara Igor Balin, Facility Manager at Albwardy Damen, said
the crane’s ability to handle multiple duties was a real selling Regional dealer Kanoo Machinery supplied the GRT655L and
point. “The new GRT655L is a really versatile unit for us. the local service provided by both Kanoo and Manitowoc was
We can lift and turn large sections at shorter radii or install a key consideration for Albwardy Damen in making its latest
smaller and lighter parts at long distances on ships we have purchase, as Balin explains.
docked,” he said. “We have other Grove rough-terrain cranes,
so we know the build quality and durability are excellent, and “We always get good and consistent service from Kanoo
the load charts are always strong.” Machinery and there is always the parts availability we
need. Training was provided locally by Manitowoc, including
simulator training for the operators. Our operators really love
the ease of operation of Grove cranes, especially the CCS
control system, and they like the fact they get instant support
from the dealer’s team in their own language.”

Other Grove rough-terrain models in Albwardy Damen’s
fleet include RT530E and RT760E units. The company is a
joint venture between UAE-based Albwardy Investment and
Netherlands-based Damen Shipyards Group. Established
in 1978, the company employs around 1,100 people at its

locations in Sharjah, Dubai and Fujairah..

GROWING MARKET SHARE

AL FARIS GROUP STARTS IRAQ OPERATIONS
WITH BRAND NEW FLEET

Al Faris Group has started its operation in Iraq to support the Recently, Al Faris successfully completed projects in West
industrial growth of the country.
Qurna 1, West Qurna 2 and Al Faw in Iraq..
With a brand-new fleet of heavy lifting and heavy haulage
equipment and a highly experienced team with vast local
knowledge and global experience headed by Alberto
Pittaluga, Al Faris is ready to fully serve heavy lifting and
heavy transport requirements. Pittaluga comes with immense
industry knowledge, credibility and over 20 years of
experience in the region including Iraq.

Al Faris invested in the latest advanced equipment in their
fleet and includes Liebherr cranes ranging from 100t to 600t.
The heavy haulage equipment includes hydraulic trailers,
SPMT’s, semi-trailers and low-bed trailers.

16

MIDDLE EAST NEWS

VIRTUAL BIDDING

RITCHIE BROS. TO TAKE DUBAI ONLINE AUCTIONS
TO THE NEXT LEVEL ON MARCH 23 & 24

In 2020, over 6,100 pieces of equipment and machinery were with robust online infrastructure and digital marketing to
sold through Ritchie Bros. online Timed Auctions held in Dubai, help companies achieve their asset disposition and fleet
with online bidders participating from around the world. management goals.

The first Dubai auction of the year will take place in March, Ritchie Bros.’ online Timed Auctions are easy to join, and
with bidding opening on March 16 and ending at staggered bidders have more time to bid. You will receive notifications
times on March 23 and 24. The Ritchie Bros. Middle East team when you’re outbid or in the lead. This improved functionality
is busy working with businesses in the Middle East and further is one of the reasons why the auction company saw a
afield to add inventory to the auction, which will take place significant increase in bidder participation last year at its
entirely online. The auction is unreserved, meaning all items Dubai auctions.
will be sold to the highest bidders, without minimum bids or
reserve prices. This means Ritchie Bros. provides a certainty of With an easy-to-use website and app, buyers can now join the
the sale of the equipment. auctions from any location. With online auctions, equipment
sellers can tap into a global network of international buyers.
Although the auction will be held online, interested bidders For example, Ritchie Bros.' December Dubai auction saw 40
or their representatives can visit the Ritchie Bros. Dubai site percent of participating buyers from outside the UAE, coming
in Jebel Ali Free Zone to view the items starting March 16. from countries such as Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa.
Visitors will be asked to wear face masks and keep a safe
distance from each other. Although the pandemic has impacted many businesses, global
demand for heavy equipment and trucks remains strong.
Ritchie Bros.’ quarterly auctions in Dubai proved to be an Bidder attendance at Ritchie Bros. auctions was steady
efficient solution for both buyers and sellers of machinery and throughout 2020. For example, the Dubai online auction in
heavy equipment in many regions, including the Middle East, September broke a five-year record, with a 32% increase in
Africa, and the Indian subcontinent.
bidders compared to the same auction the previous year..
Since early 2020, all Ritchie Bros.’ auctions, including those
in Dubai, have been held entirely online due to the pandemic.
In the EMEA region, the company uses ‘Timed Auctions,’ an
easy-to-use online auction format allowing bidders to place
bids over several days until the auction closes. Ritchie Bros.’
auctions have gained popularity in the online format, with
bidder participation frequently breaking site records in 2020.
Essentially, Ritchie Bros. has transitioned from a live and
online auction business to an asset disposition service provider

COST-EFFECTIVE ORDER

ENOC ORDERS EIGHT NEW C 380 TRACTOR
HEADS FROM RENAULT TRUCKS

ENOC Group has taken delivery of eight new C 380 Renault will be delivering the highest standards of specialist after-
Trucks models, which will be used to deliver fuel to the sales support to ENOC, including 24/7 support, driver
Group’s service stations across the United Arab Emirates. All and technician training, and a comprehensive repairs and
vehicles are supplied through United Diesel, a member of the maintenance contract.
Al Rostamani Group, Renault Trucks’ exclusive authorised
distributor for Dubai and Northern Emirates. The Renault Trucks C 380 Tractor Head 6x2 with rear liftable
axle offers superior driver comfort, exceptional reliability
The purchase of the new trucks, which will enhance the and optimal fuel efficiency, making it ideal for regional and
Group’s existing fleet, is in line with ENOC’s plans to partner long-haul applications. It is equipped with a range of features
with leading global brands that offer customer-friendly, ensuring a high level of safety, for the driver as well as for
cost-effective solutions. Renault Trucks and United Diesel
other road users..

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 17

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE

A COMPACT
WINNER

A mini crane that can get inside small spaces, can be loaded
easily on top of a variety of terrains, works better than a number
of other lifting systems? Jekko’s mini cranes do all of the above,
here’s a closer look.

18

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE

J ekko Cranes are fairly new in the Middle East,
having first arrived in the UAE in March 2018,
when the first units were purchased by rental
company, AJI Heavy Equipment Rental LLC.

The Jekko mini cranes are ideal rental equipment, and
the brand is suited to companies who want a more
innovative offering for their customers and end users.
“It is important to remember that the purchase of a
mini crane still represents a significant investment from
an end user, so the main buyers still tend to be rental
companies,” says Dean Jones, General Manager, AJI
Heavy Equipment Rental LLC. AJI Heavy Equipment
Rental has successfully introduced this innovative piece
of equipment to other rental companies and growth in
this sector remains the focus for the Jekko brand.

Currently for Jekko Cranes, the UAE is its main focal
point. Through AJI Heavy Equipment Rental LLC it is
broadening both its applications and customer base for
education and introduction to the product. Although
there is a lot of interest and enquiries have been
received from other countries in the Middle East, the
service network has not extended to those areas yet.

Technology

Jekko’s range of mini cranes are dependent heavily
on the use of technology and has a range of features
that are extremely difficult to compete with. Jekko
mini cranes have evolved to offer intuitive outrigger
settings, full hydraulic jibs and a smart LMI (load
moment indicator) system which allows more capacity
throughout the load charts.

These features have allowed the Jekko mini cranes to be
lighter in weight, offer greater capacities, longer booms
and smaller outrigger footprints than their competitors.

The Jekko mini cranes also allow for full operation of
all the functions, including all lifting tools from a single
remote. The servicing and support are made easier
with the introduction of J-Connect, which uses a smart
telematics system to assist in servicing and maintenance.

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 19

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE

Smaller and lighter - the Jekko mini cranes can fit on top jobs in tighter, more difficult areas that are already built
and inside surfaces and terrains where most other cranes up. Applications for Jekko mini cranes and mini pickers are
can’t reach. extremely varied and they can be applied in multiple industries
where lifting is required - construction and petrochemical
Jekko has also recently introduced a full electric mini picker, maintenance industries.
the MPK06, this unit has several unique features and has
a custom integrated glass manipulator which is commonly The Jekko range consists of mini cranes, articulated crawler
referred to as a glazing robot. cranes of up to 21.5 tonne capacities, compact tracked crawler
cranes, making the range ideal for the light to heavy industrial
Mini cranes maintenance sector. Jekko completes the offering with a range
of mini pickers of up to five tonnes, glazing robots and glass
Why are they called mini cranes? “This is a difficult one to lifting equipment, which cater to the lighter industrial glazing
answer, but the general term is applied as the machines can industries.
travel through a double doorway in width and can operate
indoors on multiple power sources,” says Jones. Hence, they Last year, AJI Heavy Equipment took ownership of the first
are significantly smaller and lighter than their traditional Jekko SPX 1280 sold in the region and has since taken a
counterparts and are lifted easily onto roofs of buildings by second unit earlier this year. This is in addition to several units
tower cranes or larger mobile cranes. that have been sold into Saudi Arabia in the last year.

The concept of mini cranes has been around for a few decades After sales
now. In the local market, development is also moving more
around repurposing and re-development of existing areas. The customer experience has always been a key focal point for
“That is where we see a large portion of the growth coming Jekko and as custodians of the brand, AJI Heavy Equipment
for us,” says Jones. Customers are looking for ways to do Rental LLC is the direct interface with the UAE customer.
Having a range of options available in their rental fleet allows
the customer to experience the machine and its benefits prior
to purchasing the units. This adds a massive benefit. As the
units are in operation throughout the country, service back up
has had to be fast and supportive.

Over the standard warranties, Jekko additionally provides a
two-year warranty on all parts when the unit is taken with the
J-Connect contract for the second year, and also has a three
year warranty option, something generally unheard of in the
industry.

From the customer’s perspective, the offering is a
comprehensive one from Jekko. It’s a technologically superior
product which comes partnered with the service and parts

back up making it an ideal unit to own or rent..

20

WHEN YOU COME TOA FORK IN THE ROAD,

PAVE IT.
You face choices every day. And when you’re ready to grow your asphalt
business, the right choice is simple. ADM offers four series of portable
and stationary asphalt plants ranging from 60-425 tph. No matter the

scope of the project or size of your operation, ADM can customize a
plant to fit your needs.

Get started paving your road to success with ADM.

START A CUSTOM PLANT DESIGN TODAY.

+1-260-637-5729 Asphalt Drum Mixers
[email protected]
admasphaltplants.com

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE

LEADING WITH
PURPOSE

Luck is defined as preparedness + opportunity. UD Trucks had
been prepared to face the consequences brought on by the
pandemic from the day it began operations. Plant & Equipment
reports on 2020’s steady growth.

22

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE

C ustomer satisfaction and relationships stand at the core
of UD Trucks’ brand values - characteristics which paid
off during the pandemic last year.

While most businesses saw setbacks, UD Trucks continued
its journey of growth across the Middle East. Of course, the
numbers were not as per their expectations and efforts, but the
company improved market share in the majority of its regional
markets, as well as increased sales by six percent (versus
2019), in a market that experienced an overall decrease.

The positive performance was built on the company’s
continued, comprehensive and consistent strategy for
growth, which is based on customer focus and satisfaction, a
strong partnership with its regional partners and employees’
engagement. And unlike most businesses, this didn’t begin
after the pandemic last year, but has been a part of the
brand’s DNA.

The trucking industry was hit hard during the start of the
pandemic. “It was a crisis on multiple levels,” says Mourad
Hedna, President of UD Trucks MEENA. “It was a crisis of
health and safety, demand and supply and a global lack in
business confidence.”

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 23

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE

UD Trucks’ immediate focus was their employees’ health and The overall GCC market went down 20 to 30 percent segment
safety followed by properly supporting and communicating to segment and country to country last year. Oman fared quite
with their customers, partners and dealers. Maintaining a badly for the company with a 50 percent reduction in business
sustainable cost and cash flow also remained top of mind for while the UAE business reduced by 20 percent. On the other
the business as well as the supply and availability of parts. hand, in Qatar and Bahrain, UD Trucks was the top performer
Their Dubai warehouse was closed only for 16 hours for in heavy and medium duty trucks, with Qatar growing by
sterilization and continued to operate in two shifts daily. an impressive 14 percent. In all countries, UD Trucks has
Warranty terms were extended for customers whose contracts continued to have repeat customers.
expired within the lockdown period to alleviate any concerns
they may have regarding vehicle maintenance and repair Retail business showed a lot of customer uncertainty till
needs during these challenging times. Complimentary online August 2020. The numbers picked up after that. Wholesale
training was also provided for all partner and customer teams. performed quite similarly as factories closed in Sweden, Japan
Region report and Thailand. Once the factories reopened four to five weeks
Business in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia started very well as a later, business improved. Aftermarket sales saw a significant
continuation of the partnership with Zahid Tractors announced drop in April and May whereas the following months saw
in December 2019. UD Trucks succeeded in almost doubling a three percent increase in the sale of parts as compared to
its sales in the country. It is now working on a local assembly 2019. Service sales saw a 23 percent increase with telematics
plant where heavy and medium duty UD Trucks will be and a 30 percent increase with service agreements.
manufactured and assembled in the country.
Simultaneously, UD Trucks continued to invest significant
Mourad Hedna, President of UD Trucks MEENA. resources in East Africa as it rolled out ambitious new plans
for its Kenya operations. CMC Motors Ltd, the local distributor,
developed and expanded the brand both locally and regionally.
The importer offers customers the new range of the Quester
and Croner models, which deliver unique solutions for every
application.

Looking ahead

A continuous 360-degree growth strategy considering global
trends is what has put UD Trucks head and shoulders ahead
of its peers. The company is now set to launch “Better Life”
strategy. This is aimed at a more rewarding existence for
its people and the planet by delivering sustainable logistics
solutions. The company will aim to have the lowest impact
on the environment, be a leader in customer satisfaction, and

provide customers with best-in-class trucks and services..

24

hreaechIiignghnetws

‫م‬.‫م‬.‫شركة الإمارات الحديثة للرافعات الحديثة ذ‬

Cranes Sales Crane Rental Used Crane Sales Passenger Hoist Sales

Spare parts sales for variable Model Tower Cranes and Hoists

Service (Assembly, Maintenance, Repairs)

For all enquiries please contact Yazan Osman (Regional Sales Director) Dubai Head Office
+971 50 4529494 +971 4 8867213
Eamonn Glover (Managing Director)
+971 50 6003449 [email protected] www.mehc.ae
[email protected] | [email protected]

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE

AGILITY EQUALS
RESILIENCE

Distinct business sectors have reacted uniquely to the effects of
the pandemic. The used capital equipment market has reacted in
a resilient manner. DLL Equipment Trading Middle East and Africa
FZE is upbeat about the industry’s performance this year.

26

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE

E stablished in Jebel Ali Free Zone, UAE, since 2016, adds Kelly. For instance, last year they sold a Terex Quaymate
DLL Equipment Trading Middle East and Africa FZE M50 Harbour crane from Australia to a customer in Haiti. It
is focused solely on trading in the region and is a part went on its own vessel from Australia to Haiti. (See image on
of De Lage Landen International BV which is a global finance next page). Another excellent package deal was for a customer
company. in Asia where they sold ten 110HP tractors.

The past year was undoubtedly a challenging one globally. Regionally, many mega projects are ongoing and upcoming
Raymond Kelly, International Equipment Sales Manager at including in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Morocco, Kuwait and
DLL Equipment Trading Middle East and Africa FZE says: “It Oman. In addition to the Middle East market, DLL also sells a
was a new way of life for everyone. What with lockdowns, lot of their high-quality used equipment into Africa. “Africa has
restrictions, social distancing, working from home. So, always been seen as one of our strong backbone markets and
although it was a rough year, at times it is clear that the we don’t see that changing any time soon,” he adds. Currently,
attitude in this region is to keep moving forward and adapting there is steady growth in the market with continued demand
to the changes that we are facing.” in line with new projects rollout.

Adapting to the new normal is the only way to survive as per Widespread vaccinations and a gradual end of the pandemic
Kelly. “At DLL Equipment Trading we were lucky enough to will only help increase demand. “Activity in the agriculture
maintain a strong level of sales activity throughout 2020,” and small to mid-size construction equipment market has been

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 27

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE

The Terex Quaymate M50 Harbour crane was shipped in its own vessel from Australia to Haiti.

surprisingly strong,” says Kelly. “However, I think the biggest country heads back to a sense of normalcy. And globally too
negative impact has been on the large construction equipment markets will stabilize once vaccinations are implemented and
demand which has suffered as a result of so much uncertainty completed in each country. Once that happens, various projects
in the market for customers.” will be finalized which will drive increased activity which
should result in increased equipment demand.
Keeping customers engaged
ABOUT RAYMOND
Once government restrictions were enforced in early 2020,
communicating with employees and customers was the Raymond Kelly has been in the UAE since 2003. He
foremost thing on DLL’s agenda. A modified communication joined DLL locally four years ago as a General Manager
strategy was put in place in record time when it came to and Global Equipment Sales Manager. His passion has
keeping in touch with staff and customers. “In the local market always been construction machinery and big project
here in the UAE everything went online and quickly. Instead machinery - buying them, selling them, and generally
of shaking hands and meeting and physical inspections of a working around plant and equipment.
machine, there were new protocols we had to put in place for
inspections where we sanitized the machine before and after
inspections. From a technology perspective we had to utilize
video capabilities and our internally developed inspection
application to address customer needs,” reminisces Kelly.

If there’s one good thing that has come out of this pandemic,
it’s the fact that businesses have learned that they can change
and adapt to any situation no matter how complex. “We will
find a way to overcome and find new ways to work and live,”
says Kelly positively. And he feels these working conditions will
perhaps be retained on some level in the future.

Business impact

The UAE businesses have enjoyed an additional advantage
of their geographical location due to the quick thinking and
action of the government to implement restrictions early on
in 2020. “The UAE government’s quick response dramatically
helped reduce the impact on the markets for 2021,” says
Kelly. He expects the local market to improve positively as the

28

Trusted
Marketplace
to Buy & Sell
Machines

65k+ Listings Online
Sign-up today

+97145808020
[email protected]
www.PlantAndEquipment.com

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - COVER STORY

EQUIPMENT
ON CALL 24/7

Masaha Company for Rental of All Kinds of Equipment
operates one of the largest and youngest equipment rental
fleets in Kuwait, with increasing demand as contractors
see the benefits of renting – low capital costs, flexible fleet
management and streamlined logistics.

30

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - COVER STORY

A s Masaha Company for Rental of All Kinds of Equipment Masaha began its rental business in 2017, and today has
has grown its rental offering in recent years, it has around 1,400 units in its fleet, one of the largest in Kuwait.
found itself well positioned to meet growing demand One additional advantage for customers is its young age – the
from contractors. The Kuwaiti heavy equipment and commercial oldest machines in the fleet are 2018 models. “In this regard
vehicles distributor, a member of the Foud Alghanim & Sons we have been a pioneering company for equipment rental in
Group of Companies, represents a number of brands. Kuwait,” says Ghazaleh.

These include Chinese equipment powerhouse Sany, aerial Equipment can be rented with an operator or just the machine.
working platforms from Sky Boom, Heli forklifts and Weichai In addition to the core equipment, excavators can also be
generators from 60kVA up to 2,000kVA, as well as Foton, rented with attachments such as jackhammers, buckets
which covers a range of trucks and buses. Sany is a full-line compactors and augers – Masaha is distributor for Storm, a
producer with more than 200 different products, including Korean attachment manufacturer.
earth moving equipment (excavators, wheel loaders, motor
graders, roller compactors) in addition to mobile cranes, One of the key reasons for a contractor to choose renting
asphalt pavers, mini excavators and concrete equipment. equipment over owning – apart from the core capital
expenditure – is to reduce maintenance costs and logistics,
“We are a one-stop shop. We can rent or hire up to 70% of all such as spare parts and service staff. Masaha has a 5,000sqm
the equipment that a contractor needs on a work-site,” explains workshop at its main branch, as well as six mobile workshops
Alaa Ghazaleh, Equipment Rental Manager at Masaha Company. working 24/7.

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 31

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - COVER STORY

“Most customers are working double shift – meaning day and productivity across our rental fleet – I don’t see any recurring
night – so we need to meet customers’ requirements. We have reliability issues in our machines.”
three mobile workshops working during the day and three The rental model gives customers immediate productivity
during the night, and in addition we are planning to increase without a focus on broader total ownership costs such as
the overall number of mobile workshops,” explains Ghazaleh. maintenance, machine durability and resale value, while also
taking advantage of the price advantage of Sany’s Chinese
The mobile workshops typically carry out minor jobs, while for machines. The unit cost of a machine determines its monthly
major jobs the main workshop takes care of the job. rental cost, meaning Sany rentals can be offered at a lower
price than other premium brands, says Ghazaleh.
The good news for clients is that Masaha provides a There is growing demand from contractors to rent equipment
replacement machine in the case of a breakdown: and in some rather than own it. A number of factors drive demand – the
cases, Masaha can even provide standby units for certain main ones are avoiding large up-front capital costs and being
project sites free of charge, in order to ensure there’s no able to dynamically manage monthly equipment costs based
disruption to site operations. on project progress.

That means that Masaha essentially takes care of the full Sany excavators are among the most popular machines in
logistics chain – machine delivery, mobilisation, maintenance, Masaha Company’s rental fleet.
repairs, demobilisation – while the customer remains
responsible for fuelling.

It illustrates why rentals are increasingly popular – many of
the ‘headaches’ are outsourced to the rental company.

Low unit costs reflected in rental rates

Sany as a brand has developed enormously in recent
years. Initially, customers were given a free week with the
equipment, as a demonstration. Market acceptance has quickly
grown as the machines have proven themselves in the field,
notes Ghazaleh.

“As the rental manager, I receive and review the monthly
equipment utilisation time-sheet reports. These time-sheets
show how machines perform on-site and indicate durability
and quality, and when I look as these sheets I see consistent

32

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - COVER STORY

Rental also allows them to dramatically reduce ongoing costs In terms of equipment, top product demand for the rental
by pausing the rental plan if there is a disruption with the business is in excavators, mobile cranes and trucks and buses.
project due to budget delays or unexpected problems, as was In the excavator range, the 35.5-tonne SY335C Sany is the
the case with the COVID-19 pandemic. most sought after, and for mobile cranes it’s truck cranes in the
30-50-tonne range.
Additionally, equipment utilisation is typically higher, since In the future, demand for Sky Boom’s lifting solutions –
machines with maintenance problems are replaced by the articulating man-lift, telescopic manlift, scissor lift – will grow,
rental company, rather than having to wait for the service believes Ghazaleh, since aerial work platforms are under-
department to get them running again, avoiding slow repairs represented in the Kuwait market.
when spare parts need to be ordered. “Overall we believe the trend for contractors will be to
continue to rent more and more machines, and that is why we
Customers can also call up additional machines at short here at Masaha Company are a one-stop shop for equipment,”
notice when additional speed is needed on a project, avoiding
possible long lead times when purchasing a new machine. he concludes..

“What we have noticed is that in the last years, most of Alaa Ghazaleh, Equipment Rental Manager at
the customers in Kuwait have changed their concept and Masaha Company.
perceptions about acquiring equipment. They are thinking, ‘If
I rent equipment, I can have it in hours without needing to
freeze capital or deal with all the maintenance and logistics.’
Renting equipment has become a very important part of
contractors’ business plans,” says Ghazaleh.

Management recognised the trend towards rentals in the
market and positioned the company to grow strategically in
this area, says Ghazaleh. “They saw that demand for rentals
would steadily grow, and this came true.”

Most contractors will continue to purchase around 25% of
their fleet and rent the remaining 75%, he estimates. Masaha
also offers flexible rental contracts – monthly, weekly and
daily. “With all the uncertainty in the world, contractors don’t
want to pay lots of money to purchase machines when renting
is an option. We want to help all our clients, including offering
more flexible rental contracts.”

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 33

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - MINI EXCAVATORS

SMALL BUT
POWERFUL

Demand is growing for compact machinery, including mini
excavators and compact tracked loaders.

34

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - MINI EXCAVATORS

A s infrastructure within cities in the GCC matures, the
demand for equipment shifts from predominantly
larger machines to greater use of compact
equipment, including mini excavators, for maintenance of
infrastructure rather than greenfield development.

This poses unique challenges for machinery, including
limitations for mobility, accessibility and manoeuvring,
which grows the market for compact machinery, says
Heba Gandy, UAE Marketing Manager at Al Futtaim Auto
and Machinery Company (FAMCO), the exclusive
distributor for Volvo Construction Equipment in the UAE
and Saudi Arabia.

Volvo’s compact excavators have the raw power to meet
any challenge, she says. The Volvo CE range extends from
its 1.5-tonne machine – useful for jobs such as a small
trenching job in the middle of a busy highway or a garden
with limited room for manoeuvre – up to its 7.5-tonne
machine, capable of performing multiple heavy-duty jobs
at a construction site, with attachments including bucket,
breaker and material handling.

The mid-segment 3.5-tonne EC35D compact excavator is
the most popular machine in the range of smaller diggers,
followed by the 2.5-tonne machine, says Gandy. “The Volvo
CE EC35D compact excavator is at the forefront of our Volvo
offering, which based on the market feedback is by far the
most powerful and reliable machine in its class segment,
currently being deployed in various segments – landscaping
to construction to demolition.”

Market growth for the compact excavator segment in
the UAE and GCC is expected to follow the trajectory of
developed markets in Europe and North America, says
Gandy. “No doubt we are on the verge of seeing this product
segment come out of the shadows and take the market from
its bigger siblings.”

“For a contractor, maintaining a mature fleet of specialised
machines with multi-tasking capability is a key to optimise
their operations to drive profits forward – this can only be
achieved by opting for the right machine with right options
at the right price with superior performance, entailing more
uptime, reliability, productivity and support.”

Key performance and total cost of ownership (TCO)
highlights for the compact excavators include the Volvo
engines, known for fuel efficiency with high torque and low
RPMs, reducing fuel bills for contractors. Overall, Volvo CE
offers a one-stop support package for its compact excavators
range, with all major components manufactured, tuned and
assembled within the Volvo Group only – a total harmonic
solution, says Gandy.

Another important aspect is operator safety and comfort,
with Volvo Seats, ROPS Cab or full AC Cab available, based
on machine configuration. Other advanced features include

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 35

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - MINI EXCAVATORS

telematics service Care Track, which supports contractors in tonnes and the 3- and 6-tonne mini excavators, says Mutair.
optimising operations and ensures that necessary operator These segments are serviced by Caterpillar’s range of Next
training needs are evaluated and addressed to extract Generation mini excavators, designed for strong performance,
maximum performance from the machines while retaining operator safety and comfort.
operator satisfaction.
Next-generation machines The machines are equipped with auto idle, which reduces
Mohamed Abdulrahman Al-Bahar, the Caterpillar dealer, is unnecessary fuel burn, and other performance features include
seeing increasing demand for both micro and mini excavators, greater dig performance and more tractive effort to increase
says Mamoun T Mutair, Product Manager – Building productivity; as well as a dig-to-blade front linkage geometry
Construction. “The trend is increasing in both micro and mini that speeds up clean-up tasks. The machines also travel faster,
excavators, as customers start seeing the value of having this dig to blade, and outperform any competitive models with
product in their fleets.” regard to digging and trenching.
Popular weight classes include the micro sizes of 1.5-2
When it comes to overall ownership costs, a competitively
Caterpillar’s Next Generation mini excavators have a range of priced basket of service parts gives confidence in lifecycle
features to keep operating costs low and aid performance. costs, and a tough, all-steel-design with wrap-around
counterweight protects vulnerable areas of the machine.
Additional tie-down points are conveniently located to ease
trailer transportation, notes Mutair.

For ease of operation, the Next Generation machines have a
number of compelling features, including a stick steer control
– this means the machine is operated similarly to a skid steer,
making it easier for skid steer operators to use; cruise control,
so the operator can fix the speed within a job-site; and a sealed
and pressurised cab with AC option.

When it comes to serviceability, the Next Generation mini
excavators boast a specially designed tilt-up cab that offers
access to all components and reduced service time. All
common maintenance points are easily accessible through
all-around service door access in addition to the tilt-up cab,
increasing job-site productivity.

36

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - COMPACT TRACKED LOADERS

Compact track loaders can be used to transport heavy
loads on-site, thanks to increased stability and low
ground pressure.

THE COMPACT TRACKED LOADER are almost finished without damaging the ground surfaces
– particularly important in landscaping where the hard
Another machine that’s highly manoeuvrable on smaller materials are laid and the soft-scaping is supported by
job-sites is the compact tracked loader. Less common the CTL.”
than its skid-steer cousin, it still has a number of benefits.
Bobcat’s CTL range features a high sprocket track drive The added stability of a CTL also allows precise working
system, giving the machine increased lift capacity, stability for grading work, where the Bobcat laser-controlled grader
and low ground pressure – all highly advantageous on manages a finish down to 3mm, ideal when grading in
job-sites in the GCC and Middle East, says John Chattaway, confined indoor areas is required, he says.
Loaders Product Manager at Bobcat.
“This stable and solid operation also translates into higher
“This enables the CTL to be used in applications where productivity when using road planers and wheel-saws. The
heavier loads need handling, such as palletised materials applications that make use of the low ground pressure are
to be carried within work-sites. The low ground pressure typically landscaping and municipality jobs where minimal
also allows the machine to move around work-sites that ground disturbance on already finished surfaces
is important.”

Nevertheless, Bobcat CTLs have many features in common
with the brand’s skid steers, such as smart cooling systems
that react to the workloads used and transverse engines for
balance and ease of service.

“All our loaders also benefit from performance options
such as the High-Flow hydraulics and Attachment Control

devices that allow plug-and-play use of
Bobcat’s extensive attachments range.
Uniquely, the CTL has a high track drive
sprocket that keeps it away from dirt and
debris for increased durability, and the
idlers and rollers have dual flanges to
improve the ride and avoid de-tracking,”
says Chattaway.

Key attachments for the compact loaders
include pallet forks, while the standard
attachments of brushes, sweepers, augers
and hydraulic breakers are complemented
by more specialised attachments such as
laser-controlled graders, road planers and
wheel-saws, he adds.

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 37

MUPiCdOdMlIeNGEast Mega Projects

by Plant & Equipment

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Project: Establish Sanitation Network Client: Sharjah Department of Public Works (SDPW)
Value: USD 136,000,000 Website: www.dpw.sharjah.ae

The Sharjah Department of Public Works (SDPW) is doubling civilised reconstruction, and support continuous development,
its efforts with its strategic partners to develop an integrated including mega projects and other new initiatives, in line with
plan for the city’s drainage network by 2040. This involves urban development and population growth in the emirate.
implementing sewage projects to establish an integrated Once completed, the project will contribute towards creating
sanitation system at feasible economic cost, in conjunction an attractive environment for investment and a place that
with urban development and the expected population density encourages work and living. The sewage system has been
in the city, to preserve the environment, reduce the number of thoroughly studied and will be designed in such a way
tanks, and carbon emissions, and prevent odours. The member that the integrated and flexible system keeps pace with the
of the Sharjah Executive Council and Chairman of the SDPW, expected population increase in the area and contributes to
emphasised on the department’s endeavour to achieve a boosting the economic development in Sharjah.

BAHRAIN UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Project: Affordable Housing Project in Barbar Area Project: Joy Blanca Residential Project
Value: USD 106,000,000 Value: USD 41,000,000
Client: Naseej B.S.C Client: Green Yard Properties Development
Website: www.naseej.bh

Bahrain-based companies, Naseej and Ithmaar Holding, The development is located in Dubai’s Arjan area and offers
have signed an agreement to develop a BD40m ($106m) 313 residential units comprising of 153 studios, 151 one-
affordable housing project in the Gulf kingdom. bedroom apartments, and 9 two-bedroom apartments.

The project, located in the Northern Governorate area of The project conforms to the Real Estate Regulatory Agency’s
Barbar, would be spread over an area of approximately (RERA) new regulation of depositing 50 percent of the
150,000sqm. The development would provide 100 residential project’s cost upfront to lower the risk for the investors
plots in addition to 300 villas and is aimed at Bahraini and guarantee the completion of the project. The project is
citizens under the Ministry of Housing’s Mazaya programme. scheduled for completion in the third quarter of 2022.

38

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROJECTS

SAUDI ARABIA

Project: Construct Seawater Reverse Osmosis Plant Client: Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC)
Value: USD 132,000,000 Website: www.swcc.gov.sa

The project for the design, engineering and procurement of will serve Jubail city in the Eastern province of KSA, home to
the new 400,000m3/day Jubail II seawater reverse osmosis the largest industrial city in the world.
(SWRO) plant by SEPCO Electric Power Construction
Corporation (SEPCO III) has been awarded to Metito, a Metito has been subcontracted by SEPCO III, after winning
global leader and provider of choice for total intelligent water a competitive tender for the design, engineering,
management and alternative energy solutions. procurement, supervision of installation, commissioning
of the plant including process, mechanical, electrical, and
The Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) will automation systems using innovative technologies such as a
commission this state-of-the-art SWRO project worth $132M state-of-the-art Distributed Control System (DCS). Metito’s
(SAR495M). The Jubail II SWRO plant is a 24 months project scope is fast-tracked with the scope mandated to be concluded
and a commissioning date set for February 2022. The plant in 14 months.

OMAN UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Project: Barka Independent Water Project Phase 5 Project: Sabis International School
Value: USD 129,000,000 Value: USD 59,900,000
Client: Oman Power And Water Procurement Client: Arada
Company (OPWP) Website: www.arada.com
Website: www.omanpwp.com
Construction is located in the Muwaileh district, New
The fifth phase of the Barka independent water plant (IWP) Sharjah, UAE. Work on the SABIS International School –
project will create a 100,000-cubic-meter seawater desalination Aljada has commenced and is slated for launch in September
facility. The project location is about 60km west of Muscat. 2021. Scope of work within the first phase of the Aljada
The project is around $129m. GS Inima will have 100 percent project involves the construction of a kindergarten to Grade
management rights and a 50 percent stake in EPC and O&M. 3 (K-3) school while phases 2 and 3 involves the construction
of all grade levels with capacity for 4,000 students.
Barka 5 IWP commercial operations are scheduled to kick off
in the second quarter of 2023. Italian firm, Fisia Italimpianti, The school will feature science and computer laboratories,
a unit of the Webuild Group, will be the engineering, spacious classrooms, and a dedicated SABIS Integrated
procurement and construction (EPC) contractor of the project. Testing and Learning (ITL) Hall. Additionally, the new campus
The combined value of EPC contract for desalination plant. will include a theatre, a cafeteria, a library and extensive
sports facilities, including a semi-Olympic swimming pool, an
indoor basketball/tennis court, an outdoor basketball court
and a full-size soccer field surrounded by a running track,
providing students ample space to play the sports they love.

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 39

AFRICA NEWS

EFFICIENCY

SARENS SIBA OPENS A NEW DEPOT IN SOUTH
AFRICA

Sarens Siba South Africa has expanded its operations beyond • Support from the Sarens Heavies department with mobile
Brakpan to Brits, where a new depot will cater specifically to cranes ranging from 160 to 500 tonnes, and crawler cranes
the mining industry in the region. from 16 to 600 tonnes.

The Sarens Siba depot in Brits, South Africa includes a The new depot opening was conceived during the initial
yard with offices, meeting rooms, wash bay, maintenance COVID-19 Level 5 lockdown in South Africa, as Sarens
facilities and parking facilities. On site, Sarens Siba offers the Siba leadership used the time to realign their business
following equipment: model and rethink strategy in the region. While Sarens had
successfully been serving clients in civil, power, oil & gas,
• Mobile cranes from 20 to 110 tonnes and construction segments up until then, heavy lifting and
transport for the mining segment had always been done on a
• Rough terrain cranes from 25 to 60 tonnes project and ad-hoc basis.

The new Brits depot will be able to serve clients more
quickly, decrease delivery times and costs, and be at clients’
doorsteps whenever they require services. Additionally, it
offers strategic advantages to clients in the mining industry,
allowing them to achieve quicker turnaround times for
crane requirement needs, as well as saving on mobilisation
costs. The depot also opens the door for maintenance and
shutdown activities, allowing Sarens to supply clients with a

full scope for their turnarounds..

NEW PRODUCT

BELL EQUIPMENT INTRODUCES THE KOBELCO
SK220XD FOR SOUTHERN AFRICA MARKET

Bell Equipment, the exclusive distributor of Kobelco manufactured by Bell Equipment with South African
Excavators in Southern Africa, is excited to introduce the conditions in mind. The boom and arm, which take the
new tenth generation Kobelco SK220XD to its range, which greatest punishment, are reinforced with thick steel plate
bolsters the region’s 20-ton class with a heavy-duty machine for a more robust attachment while long, solid rock guards
that is both highly productive and economical in all aspects. prevent damage to the arm.

“The SK220XD-10 is loaded with features not usually According to Stephen, the undercarriage has extra wear
found in 20t machines; features that make this model protection plates for increased durability compared to
well-matched to Africa’s toughest mining and construction standard models. In addition, the travel system is more
sites,” said Bell Equipment Marketing and Alliance Partner powerful and heavy duty due to large, strengthened track
Manager, Stephen McNeill. guides, a reinforced travel motor cover, and robust guarding

“The SK220XD-10 has a rated power output of 118kW at to protect the hydraulic piping and equipment..
2000rpm and a maximum torque of 592Nm at 1600rpm.
Like the current SK210 and SK260, it is fitted with a
4-cylinder Toyota Hino engine, which has performed
exceptionally well in our construction, mining, and forestry
industries. Bell has sold around 150 Kobelco machines with
this engine since 2017.”

Structurally the machine is much stronger. The SK220XD-10
has a one cubic metre heavy-duty bucket, designed, and

40

WIDENING THE MARKET AFRICA NEWS

SMT & SANDVIK MILESTONE
EXTEND THEIR
PARTNERSHIP ISUZU EAST AFRICA
CELEBRATES 1,000
Services Machinery & Trucks (SMT) has been appointed as LOCALLY-ASSEMBLED
Sandvik’s official distributor for surface drilling equipment ISUZU PICKUPS
and related aftermarket in Sales Area West Africa, covering
the following countries: The partnership between Isuzu Motors South Africa and
Algeria, Mauritania, Senegal, Niger, Chad, Guinea, Ivory the Isuzu manufacturing facility in Kenya is one of the
Coast, Benin, Togo, Guinea-Bissau, Gambia, Cameroon, big success stories of 2020. Isuzu East Africa recently
Equatorial Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Democratic Republic celebrated a whopping 1,000 locally-assembled Isuzu
of Congo, Congo Brazzaville, Burkina Faso and Gabon. D-MAX pickups – a milestone reached in the first year
SMT has been the officially appointed as Sandvik distributor of production.
in Algeria since March 2016. SMT is responsible for sales
of underground and surface drilling equipment, loaders, Isuzu East Africa launched local production of the
popular Isuzu D-MAX in January 2020 to cater to the
crushing & screening equipment and related aftermarket.. growing demand. The Isuzu D-MAX is currently the
number one best-selling pick-up in Kenya. Market share
in 2020 was over 46 percent.

Since the inception of the D-MAX KD Level 2 program,
the program has achieved benchmark quality standards
and exceeded GCA targets - to the delight of customers in
Kenya. Customers have also benefited from price reductions

due to favorable tax on locally-assembled vehicles..

MASSIVE ORDER

IVECO DELIVERS 160 TRAKKER TRUCKS TO
PHIBELA INDUSTRIAL PLC IN ETHIOPIA

extraordinary performance. The Trakker trucks will be used to
cover the route between Djibouti and Bure.

All 160 Trakker trucks are equipped with the Eurotronic
automated gearbox which delivers lower operating costs
reduction and higher operational safety for the operator and
superior driving comfort for the driver.

Iveco has supplied 160 Trakkers, including the AT380T38H Phibela Industrial PLC covers 29 hectares of land leased
6x4 rigid trucks and AT720T42TH 6x4 tractor trucks to Phibela from Amhara Regional Government in the industrial town
Industrial PLC, a leading company based in Ethiopia for of Bure (441km from Addis Ababa) and it is part of the
edible oil, oilseeds crusher, specialty fats and oleo chemicals Belayneh Kindie Import Export Group (BKIE), which is also the
manufacturer. The vehicles meet the company’s specific assembler of Iveco Heavy trucks shipped in kits from Europe in
technical and operational requirements with their capacity completely-knock-down units.
to work on impenetrable, broken terrains, and tackle the
constant stresses of the harshest conditions while delivering Fabio De Serafini, Iveco Africa & Middle East Business Director,
said: “The strong collaboration with Belayneh Kindie Import
Export in Ethiopia is testament to our commitment and
reliability in providing the best transport solution, always
focusing on the concept that quality and excellent service are

our priority when meeting our customers’ business needs.”.

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 41

AFRICA NEWS

COLLABORATION

NEW HOLLAND APPOINTS DIREKÇI GROUP AS
DISTRIBUTOR IN NIGERIA

New Holland Agriculture has appointed Direkçi Group as its combine harvesters, which provide dependable performance
distributor in Nigeria. This new partnership brings a broad for mixed and small-scale farmers in varied crop conditions.
range of mechanized solutions to help improve productivity in
one of the country’s most important industries. Özkan Eren, Head of Business for New Holland Middle East
and Africa, said: “We are very excited about this collaboration.
New Holland has more than 125 years’ experience as a world- Agriculture is the backbone of the economy in Nigeria and
leading agricultural equipment brand. Direkçi Group has been with the excellent support of our dealer we are ready to
successfully trading in various industry sectors, in Nigeria and revitalize this sector. New Holland’s equipment supports food
internationally, since 1983. production and infrastructure construction all around the
world - vital responsibilities in which we help our customers
Direkçi Group’s dealership in Nigeria expects the most achieve their critical missions.”
popular New Holland products to be the world-renowned
TT-series tractors (55 or 75 HP), which complement power Mehmet Özgür Direkçi, CEO of Direkçi Group, commented:
with economy; TD Straddle tractors (59 to 98 HP), which are “Nigeria's agricultural industry needs to increase production
suitable for a wide range of applications; and the TC series of to feed the country’s growing population. We help customers
throughout the world make better choices on how to set up
and run their farms successfully and our collaboration with
New Holland will accelerate this progress in Nigeria. We aim
to significantly increase mechanization in Nigerian agriculture,
which will help farmers improve productivity and profitability.”

Agriculture accounts for more than 20 percent of Nigeria’s
gross domestic product. Approximately 70 percent of the
nation’s households participate in crop farming and about 40

percent own or raise livestock..

STRATEGIC MOVE

CEVA LOGISTICS ACCELERATES ITS EXPANSION
IN AFRICA WITH THE ACQUISITION OF ASTI
GROUP IN MOROCCO

CEVA Logistics’ strategic expansion plan across the African two locations which will additionally offer air, ocean, ground
continent is further gathering pace with the acquisition of ASTI (domestic and international), project logistics and Customs
Group in Morocco. CEVA Logistics and ASTI have been long- clearance services. ASTI is a Customs clearance expert in
term partners for more than two decades and have delivered Morocco and is fully certified with the authorities and has a
a range of multi-modal services to customers across the North
African country in that time. direct EDI interface with Customs..

Through acquiring the company, CEVA Logistics will expand
its range of export capabilities, specifically reefer services – in
cooperation with its parent company the CMA CGM Group, a
world leader in shipping and logistics - and Contract Logistics
activities in both Casablanca and the Tangiers Free Zone. The
new operation will be looking to capitalize on the strength
of the automotive industry in the country, a vertical in which
CEVA Logistics is a market-leader.

ASTI is already a top ten logistics player in the Moroccan
market with almost 100 full time staff members based at the

42

AFRICA NEWS

INCREASED PRODUCTION VOLUME

FORD INVESTS $1BN TO EXPAND SOUTH AFRICAN
MANUFACTURING FOR ALL-NEW RANGER

Ford Motor Company announced an investment of $1.05bn The overall investment includes $686m (R10.3bn) for
in its South African manufacturing operations – marking extensive upgrades to the Silverton Assembly Plant that
the biggest investment in Ford’s 97-year history in South will increase production volume and drive significant
Africa. It also represents one of the largest-ever investments improvements in production efficiency and vehicle quality.
in the South African automotive industry, boosting Ford’s
production capability and creating new jobs. The new stamping plant will use a high-speed line to
produce all the major sheet metal components for the new
With this investment, Ford’s Silverton Assembly Plant is Ranger. It includes a fully automated storage and retrieval
expected to generate revenues exceeding 1.1 percent of system for stamping dies, which will be housed innovatively
South Africa’s gross domestic product. in the roof of the facility, thus eliminating related labour-
intensive processes. In addition, a modern blue-light scanner
The annual installed capacity at the Silverton plant will system that scans surfaces for imperfections will ensure the
increase to 200,000 vehicles from 168,000, supporting
production of the all-new Ford Ranger pickup truck for the highest-quality final product leaves the stamping plant..
domestic market and export to over 100 global markets. The
plant also will manufacture Volkswagen pickups trucks as
part of the Ford-VW strategic alliance.

The expanded production will help create 1,200
incremental Ford jobs in South Africa, increasing the local
workforce to 5,500 employees, and adding an estimated
10,000 new jobs across Ford’s local supplier network,
bringing the total to 60,000.

LOYALTY

TMQ PURCHASES ROCKSTER R1100S IN
BURKINA FASO

Tropic Mining & Quarry SASU (TMQ) has been using the enthusiastic from the start. “The R900 was just the right
Rockster R900 impact crusher since 2008, to which a new crusher to start the processing business. It is very easy to
R1100S was added in autumn 2020 to increase limestone use and maintain, and the performance is excellent,” said Al
processing capacities. Hassane Sienou, Managing Director at TMQ.

Long-term customer satisfaction and reliably high production TMQ stayed loyal to Rockster and after 12 years ordered
output were the two main factors behind the sale of another the next crusher from the upper Austrian manufacturer. The
Rockster crusher in the West African country of Burkina Faso. Rockster impact crushers are mainly used to crush dolomite
limestone for the production of cement.
In 2008, the first Rockster crusher, the R900 tracked impact
crusher was delivered to TMQ and the customer was “We are convinced of the robustness and longevity of these
impact crushers and have therefore invested in the next larger
system from Rockster - the R1100S mobile impact crusher. Our
new R1100S stone crusher also has a sieve system consisting
of a sieve box and a return belt, with which we can produce
perfectly defined final grain. We produce about 300 tons per
hour of fine limestone of 0/32 mm and we can sell this very
well to cement manufacturers,” said Sienou.

They want to use the new R1100S to produce 600,000 tons of

end material per year..

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 43

AFRICA NEWS - ASPHALT PLANTS

THE
RIGHT
MIX

As technical knowledge within the
road construction industry increases,
contractors are looking for cost-efficient
asphalt plants that produce high-quality
mixes and are easy to transport and erect.

44

AFRICA NEWS - ASPHALT PLANTS

I talian brand Marini, part of Fayat Group, for small and medium projects in different
has been active in the MENA region locations, which is quite a common situation
since the 1960s and has a consolidated for customers in Africa,” says Viroli.
network of dealers and agents in the Gulf and
Mediterranean region, with around 500 asphalt The main customer segments are contractors
plants installed to date. Its key strengths are its producing asphalt for their own projects,
wide product range, the availability of support suppliers who sell to contractors, and
structures in the market, and dedicated and municipalities and other public sector
customised technology and solutions, says organisations in countries like Egypt and Iraq.
Michele Viroli, Marini Sales Director East In the private sector, around 70% of contractors
Europe and Middle East. produce asphalt for their own projects, and
around 30% are wholesalers.
“Our product line encompasses the
hypermobile solution – Xpress – to the Overall, Viroli says there is increasing
stationary and containerised tower. We have a sophistication in the industry. “We have noticed
fully customised solution called Class Towers, that the general level of technical knowledge
up to the Master Tower series, which is our in the road construction industry has risen
most innovative product with almost full a lot, and project nowadays are approached
recycling and high energy efficiency.” with a higher level of professionalism in
budgeting, and also taking into consideration
One popular product is the BE Tower, a the operational costs of equipment – this was
stationary mixing plant with output of 100-240 not very common in the past.”
tonnes hourly production. It has a modular
Contractors are focused on energy savings and
design and containerised components, making minimisation of machine running costs, to
it ideal for overseas projects. be more competitive. Mobile plants are more
attractive in part because they require less site
Another is the Xpress, a fully mobile plant infrastructure – including deep excavations and
with hourly production of 120-200 tonnes. heavy concrete foundations – than stationary
“With a compact design, and engineered plants. “In this way they can save a big portion
of fixed costs, so we are seeing an increase in
for immediate erection even without a demand for fully mobile units.”
crane thanks to its hydraulic lifting
system, this is the ideal solution

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 45

AFRICA NEWS - ASPHALT PLANTS

In 2006, Marini introduced an asphalt plant with the dryer, Low-cost operation
fine storage hopper and the bag filter all in line in the same
tower, creating a very modular machine that takes advantage US firm Asphalt Drum Mixers (ADM) has several ranges of
of the natural circulation of heat, keeping the hopper hot. asphalt drum mixers, but its two main ranges sold into Africa
are the smaller SPL series, with output of 54-145 metric tonnes
“This concept links our range of stationary mixing plants, per hour, and the larger EX series, with output of 109-295
which are all tower designs. This has several advantages – tonnes per hour, depending on drum diameter.
including compact layout with minimised footprint on site,
and the higher efficiency of the burner, which generates For the SPL, the entire asphalt plant, including all components,
thermal and electric savings that we have calculated as fits on a single trailer frame for easy transport to hard-to-
reducing approximately 10% of energy expenses while access places as well as cost-efficient worldwide shipping to
running the asphalt plant. This is quite a big amount of money emerging markets. In practice, that allows contractors to move
when you consider the energy costs of an asphalt plant over their production plants close to the road construction site at
one year, giving contractors a remarkable advantage.” relatively little cost, says Mike Devine, President of ADM.

Fuel subsidy reductions in many countries, and the fact that Designed for low cost per tonne production, a key attraction
many plants rely on generators for electrical power, means of the plant is that it can be run with a single plant operator
contractors are paying more and more attention to overall and a single loader operator, or even just one operator doing
energy efficiency, says Viroli. both functions when operating at low output, he says. The
SPL plants are built with a parallel flow design, whereas the
Transportation costs can also be significant. The BE Tower’s EX series is built with a counterflow system that uses separate
components are containerised, making them easy to handle drying and mixing zones, achieving a higher level of heat
and transport around the world. Containerisation also helps transfer and fuel efficiency.
protect components during shipping and transportation, he
notes. When it comes to choosing the right plant, one of the Devine says there is increased demand for cleaner burning
most important questions to ask a contractor is how many plants in some markets, especially for plants to be situated
times in a year they plan to move it. in urban centres. The EX series’ counterflow design captures
residual gases and reintroduces them back to the combustion
“We say that if a contractor is planning to relocate the plant zone, virtually eliminating blue smoke and hydrocarbon
more than twice in a year, then definitely choose a mobile emissions. Longer aggregates drying and mixing times also
plant. If the customer has a project that will last a whole year improve the quality of the mix.
or will need only a single relocation in one year, then with
our modular machines, it is still convenient to stay on the The SPL series can accommodate a reclaimed asphalt
stationary side. This is more or less the border between mobile
and stationary.”

For service and support, a hub in Dubai supports customers
in the Middle East and Africa with sales, service and spare
parts. Marini also offers a telematics service with a dedicated
24-7 service hotline that advises customers based on the fault
code information their plant transmits back to the Marini
headquarters in Italy. “This is something quite common for
other businesses but not for asphalt plant services, so it’s quite
advanced for our industry.”

Marini’s Xpress towers are easy to transport and can be
erected without a crane thanks to a hydraulic lifting system.

46

AFRICA NEWS - ASPHALT PLANTS

pavement (RAP) mixture of up to 25%, and the EX series can Key challenges include carrying out laboratory analysis of the
handle up to 50%. In many markets in Africa the use of RAP is material to identify the quality and quantity of the bitumen
not common, including where many new roads are greenfield in the road being milled, and proper treatment of the RAP
projects or existing roads are considerably worn, says Devine, material before feeding it into the mix, explains Marini’s Viroli.
noting nevertheless that inquiries for plants that efficiently “We always recommend to have mobile screens to divide the
process RAP are growing. RAP in at least in two different sizes, and to store it properly
so as not to affect the granulometry.”
One point of pride for ADM is the longevity of plants in Countries with large networks of high-quality roads are
operation, owing to their durability and the ability to service the best candidates for greater adoption of RAP. The most
them using commonly available spare parts. important factor is the quality of the bitumen used in the
original road, and in oil-producing countries the quantity
ADM sells plants around the world, including Russia, Central and quality of the bitumen is quite high. “This can allow
and South America, in addition to North America, and has a contractors to produce new asphalt with a very little new
strong presence in a number of countries in Africa, such as bitumen added, increasing the savings in new asphalt
Algeria and Nigeria. Demand varies between markets and
is highly cyclical, depending on numerous factors including production.”.
commodity cycles and local investment in infrastructure.
ADM’s plants are simple to install and operate, designed for
Currency rates also play a role – the currently low US dollar low cost per tonne production.
makes ADM plants highly affordable, even if there are slightly
higher transportation costs from the US to Africa than from a
manufacturer in Europe, says Devine.

RAP can cut costs and reduce waste

Use of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) is another market
trend that is developing steadily, though there are large
differences between markets and individual contractor
practices. Two main options are a cold mix, with milled
RAP placed directly into the mixer at different percentages
according to the individual use case and project specification;
and a hot mix, which is less common.

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 47

AUPfCriOcMaINMGega Projects

by Plant & Equipment

EGYPT

Project: Construct Sustainable City Client: New Urban Communities Authority (NUCA)
Value: USD 32,000,000,000

Talaat Moustafa Group (TMG) one of the largest developers in nearly 600,000 people in addition to business, commercial,
Egypt, would soon sign an agreement with the government to medical, sport and educational facilities. TMG has appointed
build a sustainable city near Cairo. some international consultancy firms to undertake project
designs.
The agreement would allow it to acquire a 5,000-acre (2mln
square metres) land in Capital Gardens City east of Cairo The project also includes a 5-star hotel and a university and
to build a sustainable multi-purpose new city. The new city that it would fetch the government nearly $7bn in direct and
will comprise around 140,000 housing units accommodating indirect taxes and create more than 3.3 million jobs.

EGYPT LIBYA

Project: Bella Vento Hospitality Project Project: Construct New Gas-fired Power Plant
Value: USD 255,000,000 Value: USD 134,000,000
Client: Manara Developments Client: General Electricity Company of Libya
Website: www.gecol.ly

Egyptian developer Manara Developments expects to The $134m project will be completed within the next five
complete and handover its EGP4bn ($255m) Bella Vento months and include the installation of four 41MW turbines.
hospitality project in Galala City, Ain Sokhna by 2025. The The project has already received full approval from the Audit
project includes 1,100 units and a 120-key five-star hotel Office and the procurement procedures for the establishment
and would be developed in four phases. They would deliver of a second 170MW plant have been completed as well.
200 units by mid-2022 and the whole project would be
completed in four years. The project consultant is Archgate. Featuring four 41MW turbines and with a planned capacity
of 164MW, the future fire plant should help stabilize the
The company will invest $16m in the project in 2021 and target national grid, which has suffered damage due to the security
$64m in sales for the period. They are also planning a new instabilities that have prevailed in Libyan territory since 2011.
hospitality project in New Alamein City in the upcoming period.

48

AFRICA NEWS - PROJECTS

NIGERIA

Project: Methanol Production Plant Client: Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)
Value: USD 3,000,000,000

Construction of $3bn methanol production plant at Brass in will be provided by oil company Shell. Construction of the
Bayelsa state set to begin. To be jointly owned by Nigerian plant is expected to be completed by 2024 and will provide
Local Content Management Board, NNPC and local firm approximately 30,000 jobs during the construction phase
DVS Engineering Limited, the Brass plant, claimed to be and around 5,000 jobs once it becomes operational. This
the country’s first methanol processing facility, is expected significant milestone of achieving an FID symbolises the full
to process around 14Tcf of gas drawn from oil fields in support of the federal government for the construction and
the Niger Delta Brass area. The gas feedstock for the plant operation of the first methanol plant in Nigeria.

ANGOLA MOROCCO

Project: Cabinda Oil Refinery Phase 2 and 3 Project: Construct Wind Farm
Value: USD 920,000,000 Value: USD 314,000,000
Client: Gemcorp Capital Client: National Office of Electricity and Drinking
Website: www.gemcorp.net Water (ONEE)
Website: www.one.org.ma

Approximately $700m will be required for the development Moroccan electricity company, Nareva and Enel Green
of the second and third phases. Phase two and three of Power, have signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with
the project will transform the facility into a full-conversion the National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE)
refinery. Additional processing capacity of 30,000 barrels and the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN)
of oil per day will be added to the refinery, and a new for the 270MW Jbel Lahdid wind farm project.
catalytic reformer, hydrotreater and catalytic cracking unit
will be installed. The project will be located at Jbel Lahdid, near Essaouira
on the Atlantic coast of the Cherifian kingdom. The park
Phase two will be commissioned in the second quarter will be built as part of Morocco’s Integrated Wind Energy
of 2023, while the final phase will be operational in the Programme which aims to build six wind farms with a total
second quarter of 2024.Gemcorp completed the front- capacity of 1000MW by 2024. The Jbel Lahdid wind farm is
end engineering and design (FEED) on both the Inside the third installation of Morocco’s wind power programme.
Battery Limits (ISBL) and Outside Battery Limits (OSBL)
components for the project.

www.PlantAndEquipment.com 49

GLOBAL NEWS

AGENCY APPOINTMENT

RAIMONDI MOVES INTO KOREA

Raimondi Cranes SpA announced the appointment of Korea’s La will consist of 12 buildings made of 29 stories tall. With a total
On as the country’s official dealer of its tower and luffing cranes of 1,297 homes, this residential development will represent one
and its range of crane accessories. The new agency appointment, of the largest residential complexes of the new city.
effective from February 2020, was inaugurated with the sale of
company’s first five Raimondi LR273 luffing cranes. “These Raimondi LR273s was sold to GU Machinery
Construction Corporation, who then contracted them to GS
“We are proud to represent Raimondi Cranes in the region E&C. The latter is one of the biggest construction companies
and to work with machines that meet the higher standards in in Korea and its well known for its high standards in terms
terms of capabilities, innovation, and safety. The decision to of jobsite safety. Therefore, the opportunity of placing the
purchase this specific Raimondi model came from the shortage two cranes on GS E&C’s jobsite was an important step
of luffers within the East Asian market, and the versatility of for positioning La On at the top of this segment market,”
this heavy lifter,” said Seung Soon Park, Managing Director, La explained Park.
On. Park added that LaOn’s extensive experience in the tower
and luffing crane sector exceeds three decades, in addition to Raimondi LR273, a weight-optimized luffer, is the ideal crane
10 years of international trade. for clients requiring a machine that is easy to install and that
boasts excellent load curve and big drum capacity. With a
Two of the new cranes are already at work participating in 18t maximum capacity and a jib length clocking in at 60m,
the construction of a noteworthy large-scale development in this luffer offers the highest tip load of a crane in its class.
Dongtan, a newly built city in the metropolitan area near Seoul. Additionally, its parking radius, designed on customers’ needs,
Upon completion, Dongtan New Town Xi Apartment Complex, represents a major asset to clients working in congested and
highly built-up areas.

Therefore, chosen for their impressive tip load at 60m, the
LR273s are at work with jib lengths of 55m and 60m, and a
free-standing height of 44m that will be later climbed up to
approximately 100m. “Raimondi technical department was
fundamental during the test operation and the installation
process. Their support ensured the smoothness of the crane
installations, while allowing us the chance to learn more about

the new machines,” Park concluded..

LARGE ORDER

HIAB TO SUPPLY MV COMMERCIAL WITH 100
HIAB LOADER CRANES

Hiab, part of Cargotec, will supply MV Commercial in the UK technology provides real-time insights into equipment
with 100 light, medium and heavy range HIAB loader cranes utilisation, operation and condition. This data can be used to
equipped with HiConnect. The deal is worth over EUR5.7m actively optimise performance, safety and avoid unnecessary
including installation for 60 cranes and has been booked in the downtime. Web-based dashboards with clear and simple
1st quarter of 2021. overviews provide status monitoring, service planning and

MV Commercial provides sales and leasing for commercial help improve the operation of each unit and operator..
vehicles and has become one of the biggest national suppliers of
specialist loader cranes. Founded in 2001, last year the business
was named the UK Independent Dealer of the Year 2020.

Currently, 60% of the cranes are contracted to be installed at
Hiab’s own installation sites in the UK. MV Commercial and its
customers can receive after-sales service from Hiab’s extensive
service network in the UK and Ireland throughout the entire
equipment lifecycle.

HiConnect enhances the productivity of Hiab customer’s
businesses through connected Hiab equipment. The

50