Cutting-edge equipment, technology for aggregate operations

Rohr-Idreco Dredge Systems added two new cutter suction dredge (CSD) models to its product lineup. Rohr-Idreco developed the Hawk CSD model for dredging up to 45 ft., and the Falcon CSD for up to 65 ft. with a 26-in. pump. The dredges are electrically driven, including the pump, cutter head and winches, with an add-on diesel generator power unit installed onboard for when there is no access possible to the electrical grid. Rohr-Idreco says the diesel generator power units will eventually be replaceable by hydrogen-based power systems or fuel cells. By taking out the mechanical and hydraulic-drive systems, Rohr-Idreco says energy efficiency is significantly optimized – even when the dredges are running on diesel generators. Through a dual mode – linking the dredge to the electrical grid when possible and running on diesel when not – the dredges can be put to work on traditional contract dredging projects, as well as on projects in sensitive or urban settings where zero-emission operations are required.

---

Machine control solution designed for mixed fleets

Topcon Positioning Group debuted its MC-Max machine control solution. According to Topcon, MC-Max is a scalable solution for mixed-fleet heavy equipment environments. It is based on Topcon’s MC-X machine control platform and backed by Sitelink3D, the company’s real-time, cloud-based data management ecosystem. MC-Max is designed to adapt to an owner’s machine control and data integration needs as fleets and workflows expand. Topcon says MC-Max increases processing power, speed, accuracy, versatility and reliability, and it can be installed on a range of dozers and excavators using the same basic modular components. Additionally, Topcon says the MC-Max solution offers flexible mounting solutions, as well as optional automatic blade and bucket control for a variety of machines.

---

Remote-control tech presents unique opportunity

Cat 374 and 395 large hydraulic excavators can now be equipped with Command for Excavating, offering remote-control operation. Caterpillar says Command for Excavating removes operators from potentially hazardous jobsite conditions by offering remote machine operation from a safe distance, eliminating safety risks and reducing injuries from climbing on and off machines. Offering line-of-sight and non-line-of-sight operating options, Command for Excavating users comfortably control dig, lift and tracking functions from outside the cab. The technology allows production to restart immediately following disruptive processes, such as blasting within quarries.

---

System expands capabilities of blasters

BME launched Axxis Titanium, a next-generation electronic blast detonation system. According to BME, the Axxis Titanium detonator expands the capabilities of blasters and blast engineers while allowing for greater digital integration with on-mine systems. Axxis Titanium allows for increased safety, larger blasts, more accurate blasting and greater flexibility, the company says. Key features are dual capacitors that provide for inherently safe logging and testing; quick on-bench logging and testing; non-volatile detonator memory; programmable timing to 35 seconds, in 1-millisecond intervals; a delay accuracy of 0.0025 percent; and copper alloy detonator shells.

---

Accounts receivable and payments module rolls out

TAC Insight added an accounts receivable (AR) and payments module for Fast-Weigh, its flagship product. With the new module, TAC Insight says users have complete AR and credit management along with secure PCI-compliant debit card, credit card and ACH transactions through BASYS Processing. Combining Fast-Weigh with payment processing helps streamline the material sales and payment collection process, TAC Insight says. Additionally, the company says Fast-Weigh AR & Payments offers customers simple and low-cost processing rates with no hidden fees, allowing them to deposit funds into a bank of their choice. With the module, producers can allow their customers to pay invoices, save and manage payment methods and view their invoice and payment history.