EXECUTIVE REPORT continued
Compact excavators are added in significant batches to keep the fleet modern, to adjust the size and type mix to suit demand, and to benefit from changes in manufacturer’s pricing. Ron Chidgey says that running a mixed fleet of Kubota and Takeuchi models helps keep new machine prices competitive but he is not averse to trying other marques.
Following JCB’s introduction of its new-generation compact excavators, Emmitt Plant has extensively trialled, and subsequently bought, one each of the 8.6-tonne 86C-1 and the 4.8-tonne 48Z-1. With Terex dumpers already in the fleet, the latest additions of this product type were JCB-badged Terex machines, which were on a better finance deal. The JCB dumper order was for 21 machines with payloads from one to 10 tonnes.
The 40-strong telescopic handler fleet includes the Merlo P25-6 and 13 new Manitou M1335 Easy models.
Emmitt Plant recently changed its computer system to InspHire, and is about to add the software supplier’s Workshop package in order to achieve ‘paperless’ operation.
Own transport fleet
The company has its own transport fleet including one Mercedes Arocs 2828 6x2 tractor unit with a three-axle Nooteboom OSD41 low loader trailer, and a number of Scania P370 8x2 trucks with Stirling beavertail bodies. The Diss depot (which was originally a Bristol Ames Plant Hire location) also runs a 7.5-tonne delivery truck with a trailer. A new depot building was erected at Diss in 2011 to the same modern design as used for Corby in 2007.
A large batch of JCB site dumpers joined the fleet this year.
Regarding dumpers, Ron Chidgey states that he would like to see industry agreement on the need for extra safety systems, such as forward object warning devices. To create a level playing field, he would like to see any systems deemed essential to be made mandatory and then fitted by the machine manufacturers, removing the need for third party add-ons to satisfy particular customers.
He is also concerned about the trend for bigger dumpers with less powerful engines to meet the latest emission requirements without the need for a diesel particulate filter. He questions whether some machines now have sufficient power to really plough through deep mud whilst fully laden.
The latest lightweight tandem vibrating rollers purchased are 12 Hamms with drum widths of 1000mm and 1200mm. Other recent additions include 13 Manitou MT1335 Easy 13m rigid frame telescopic handlers and one 16m Merlo 38-16 Roto, purchased for a specific long-term contract.
One item in the Emmitt fleet which is still in demand with several of its customers, including the SEH Asphalt company, is the now obsolete JCB 2CX Airmaster. Ron Chidgey is emphatic that JCB should introduce a new version of this popular tractor/loader/compressor.
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A particular strength of Emmitt Plant is the number and calibre of its service engineers. It currently has 14, nine of whom can be mobile at any one time using a fleet of Ford Transit Medium vans. The mobile technicians carry CSCS cards and arrive on site with a welding set and burning gear, while their vans can tow a 750kg trailer to deliver track parts or buckets. Having started in the industry as a mechanic, Ron Chidgey appreciates the need for well-trained engineers and the company makes good use of the CITB plant mechanics apprenticeship courses at the nearby Bircham Newton training centre in Norfolk.
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www.emmittplant.co.uk
Emmitt Plant has fully trained and well-equipped mobile service engineers.
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