Rugged Waterproof PDA Case With Mounting System The OtterBox Armor 1900 is a waterproof, interactive PDA case utilized with Crain Enterprises Inc.’s Data-Max mounting system. This innovative solution for data collectors allows surveyors, engineers, construction and other workers to hold data-collecting devices in place, while providing secure mounting and PDA protection in any environment. The virtually indestructible case enables user interaction with the PDA even while it’s enclosed. The Data-Max mounting system allows users to adjust their data collector 26 ways for easy PDA access and viewing. Otter Products LLC; 888/695-8820; www.otterbox.com Hydraulic Hammer Simplified Design Designed for high productivity
The federal government is allowing dirty diesel fuel at the pump longer than it had originally required. The extension applies to highway-grade diesel and expires on Oct. 15, 2006. Prior to Oct. 15, retail fuel may contain a "slightly higher" sulfur content than previously mandated, according to a recent announcement from the Environmental Protection Agency. The earlier retail deadline was Sept. 1. Hurricane hits along the refinery-rich Gulf Coast apparently did not contribute to the government's relaxation of the rule. The delay, claims EPA, is a response to oil-industry requests for more time to flush sulfur contaminants out of distribution
Backhoe Loader Same Hydraulic System as Excavators The new CBL40 is a compact backhoe loader powered by a 3-cylinder Tier II compliant 37.2-hp turbo-diesel engine. It has a digging depth of 10 ft, backhoe reach of 13 ft, 2 in. and a loader lift height of 9 ft, 6 in. The CBL40 has the same hydraulic system used in the manufacturer�s excavators. This provides a smooth, precise and speedy control in backhoe operation. In addition, the loader bucket is self leveling and is equipped with a standard quick coupler. Yanmar America Corp.; 770/877-9894; www.yanmar.com Utility Work Truck New Attachments Utility
Curious. Dealers eyed new turbocharger (top) and engine (bottom). (Photo by Tudor Hampton for ENR) Clean diesel engines are making considerable gains in fuel economy, but maintenance issues are still up in the air, equipment dealers say. Mack Trucks’ latest round of low-emission engines, available next year, are at least 2 to 3% more fuel-efficient than previous power trains. For construction work, where older, heavy-duty engines have a thirst for fuel, users may even see double-digit percent gains, the manufacturer claims. VIKNER The new “MackPower” series is the Allentown, Pa.-based vendor’s most-extensive engine rollout in 40 years. It is designed
Work Area Vision System Improves Worksite Safety A new machine-mounted closed-circuit vision system helps improve productivity as well as safety on the jobsite. While it is not intended to be used in place of direct views or installed mirrors, the Work Area Vision System enhances awareness of surroundings, work tool activity and changing conditions in the work area, the maker says. The system includes a 7-in. color thin-film-transistor LCD display that gives the operator an increased field of vision in the cab. The camera provides two offerings, panoramic (115�) or narrow (78�). Caterpillar Electronics and Electrical Systems; 309/578-3985; www.catelectronics.com Core
Momentum. Field-forced automation is driving construction "backwards," Bradshaw explains. Like the border of a giant jigsaw puzzle, global positioning systems are starting to bring together electronic management tools. The complete picture won't be clear though until all the pieces fit. Engineers can expect the puzzle to remain on the kitchen table for a few more years, perhaps decades, as the industry works out the kinks. For one, construction moves at a snail's pace, technologically speaking. Firms have been slow to incorporate GPS into survey, design and project delivery because of its complexity. (related ENR cover story Oct. 3, 2005 3D
Dealers size up variable geometry turbocharger, new for Mack's MP series engines. (Photo by Tudor Hampton for ENR.) Clean diesel engines that power construction trucks are making considerable gains in fuel economy, but maintenance issues are still up in the air. Mack Trucks� latest round of low-emission engines, available starting next year, are at least 2% to 3% more fuel-efficient than previous powertrains. For some construction work, where older, heavy-duty engines have a thirst for fuel, users may even see double-digit percent gains, the manufacturer claims. The new "MackPower" series represents the Allentown, Pa.-based supplier's most-extensive engine rollout in 40
Tack Wagon Direct Drive Asphalt Pump The ProTack TW500 tack wagon can be used for heating and spraying emulsified asphalt in a variety of municipal and residential projects. It features a large 500-gallon capacity tank as well as a heavy-duty 12-gallon per minute direct drive asphalt pump powered by an efficient 5.5-hp Honda engine. This model also comes with an adjustable hitch with a swivel tongue-mounted jack that makes the trailer adaptable to a variety of vehicles. BOMAG Americas Inc.; 309/853-3571; www.bomag-americas.com Water Pump Compact and Lightweight Weighing only 23 lb, the new LWP 2 submersible water pump is designed
Infrared Spot Heaters Propane or Natural Gas Models The heavy-duty RCH Series spot heaters do not use electricity and can heat an enclosed area of up to 2,500 sq ft without using fans or moving parts. They are designed for hard-to-heat areas such as construction sites, unheated work areas, thawing applications and more. The series includes four models that are CSA design certified and have a compact 14-in.-dia base and a stainless steel emitter. The heaters come in propane gas or natural gas models. SunStar Heating Products Inc.; 888/778-6782; www.sunstarheaters.com MIG Gun Upgraded Back End The Q-Gun line of MIG
Circular Saw Eight-Position Adjustable Handle The 71/4-in. Tilt-Lok circular saw, with its exclusive eight-position adjustable handle, lasts up to eight times longer than competitive models, claims the maker. With a 3.25 Max HP motor, it delivers up to 25% more power, cuts faster and deeper at 45� and 90�. The saw weighs 10.4 lb and features the manufacturer’s 15-amp, 3.25 peak motors. It also has a full 50� bevel capacity for cutting extreme angles as well as cushion grip front and rear handles. Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp.; 800/729-3878; www.milwaukeetool.com Curing and Sealing Compound Transparent The CS-309-25 acrylic curing and sealing
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