Embracing Change

New equipment on show at JCB Waste & Recycling demonstration event

On 29 June, JCB hosted an event at their Staffordshire headquarters for invited guests from the domestic waste and recycling industries on the theme of ‘Embracing Change’.

The day began with a presentation from group chief executive officer Alan Blake, who drew attention to the sharp rebound in worldwide demand for JCB equipment in 2010 following the ‘credit crunch’ induced slump in 2009. He explained how JCB were benefiting from the strong demand not only in the BRIC economies (Brazil, Russia, India and China), but also in the up and coming VISTA countries of Vietnam, Indonesia, South Africa, Turkey and Argentina.

This introduction was followed by an overview of the waste industry by Derek Greedy, vice-president of the Chartered Institute of Waste Management, and Tim Burnhope, JCB group managing director, product development and commercial operations, whose presentation charted the development of JCB from its origins as a converter of agricultural tractors, to its current position as the third biggest construction equipment manufacturer in the world.

Following the unveiling of the new JCB 550-80 Loadall (pictured right), guests had the opportunity to see a range of JCB machines in action both at the factory and at the JCB demonstration arena, where a range of suppliers of both attachments and process equipment were supporting the event.

With a 5.0-tonne maximum lift capacity, the 550-80 telescopic handler is JCB’s highest capacity Loadall and has been specifically designed for bulk handling operations in heavier-duty waste applications. Powered by either a 130hp (97kW) or 145hp (108kW) engine, the machine utilizes JCB’s proven optional Smooth Ride System, which offers improved load retention and increased comfort in load-and-carry operations.

Also, shown for the first time was the new 260 skid-steer loader model with the Wastemaster package, which includes level 2 FOPS protection, front and side screen guards and impact protection for laminated glass and screens. These provide both machine and operator safeguards for general-purpose work at waste facilities and roles in demanding industries such as skip hire and metals recycling.

Equipment that could also be seen working in the demonstration arena included: crushers and screens from Rubblemaster, Sandvik and Red Rhino; a Doppstadt shredder; ‘super cushion’ solid tyres from ITWS; a Macpactor skip compactor, the ZoneSafe pedestrian safety system from OnGrade; and a new type of scale from Loadrite which weighs material without disrupting the operation of the excavator.

For further information visit: www.jcb.com