July 2025 Vol. 80 No. 7
New Products
New Products: Latest tools and technology for underground infrastructure crews
United Rentals
United Rentals Inc., the world’s largest equipment rental company, launched Workspace Ready Solutions – customizable accessory packages for mobile offices and container offices designed to meet the unique needs of construction projects. These solutions help companies create functional, professional workspaces where teams can meet, plan and problem-solve in comfort, starting on day one.
Workspace Ready Solutions take the burden off contractors by eliminating the need to outfit job-site offices themselves. When project managers rent a mobile office trailer or container office, they can select from an extensive list of accessories, and United Rentals ensures the office is fully equipped and ready for use upon delivery.
Available accessories include construction site office furniture, such as desks, chairs, filing cabinets and conference tables, as well as whiteboards, markers and other supplies. Appliances like refrigerators, coffee makers and microwaves are also available. United Rentals offers multiple packages and bundles, allowing companies to select exactly what they need and easily scale as project requirements evolve.
For storage containers, United Rentals provides add-ons including ramps, shelves, hooks, locks and solar lighting, offering secure and organized storage solutions.
“Project mobilization is a complex undertaking,” said Tom Jones, senior vice president of Operations, United Rentals. “Project managers face countless tasks as they prepare job sites, including securing temporary infrastructure like mobile office trailers and container offices. Our Workspace Ready Solutions give them a simple, efficient way to turn empty spaces into fully functional work environments.”
Vermeer
The new Vermeer MTR516 microtrencher attachment is built for contractors who need to install fiber optics efficiently with less restoration work. It cuts trenches up to 17 inches (43.2 cm) deep, and helps crews quickly connect neighborhoods to high-speed internet, especially in urban areas. Working with Vermeer RTX550 and RTX750 ride-on tractors, this design focuses on a clean, precise cut while reducing impact on surrounding property and infrastructure.
"Contractors need to get fiber in the ground fast and keep the job site clean, and the MTR516 microtrencher is built for that," said Nick Olsen, product manager at Vermeer. "We've packed it with features that directly impact cutting performance and job-site cleanliness, all backed by the reliable service and support our customers expect from their local Vermeer dealer."
The MTR516 microtrencher attachment features a fully shrouded cutting wheel that covers the blade during operation, contains debris and optimizes vacuum suction. This keeps the job site cleaner and helps cut down on cleanup time. The attachment's durability is also key for consistent performance.
"We leveraged our experience with rockwheel durability when designing the MTR516 microtrencher," added Olsen. "Contractors need equipment that can handle tough conditions day after day. By incorporating principles from our rockwheel designs, we built this attachment to offer enhanced durability and maintain cutting performance, even in challenging ground like cobble."
Serviceability is straightforward to help maximize uptime. The MTR516 microtrencher has a replaceable spoil outlet for 4-inch or 6-inch (10.2-cm or 15.2-cm) vac hoses that can be swapped out in the field. Multiple bolt-in wear plates are field-serviceable, and a dual-hinged access panel gives unhindered access for blade servicing and replacement. These design choices help reduce trips to the shop and keep crews working.
For cutting versatility, the MTR516 microtrencher handles trenches from one to 2 inches (2.5 cm to 5 cm) wide and down to 17 inches (43.2 cm) deep. Contractors can choose wheel options with welded polycrystalline diamond cutter (PDC) teeth for fast, clean cuts in asphalt or rotary carbide teeth that are effective in concrete and rock. The attachment can also be offset up to 24 inches (61 cm) to the right, making it easier to cut next to curbs. Operation is made simpler with features like single-lever depth control. The design also optimizes airflow for spoil discharge across all cutting depths, meaning less spoil left behind.
For contractors expanding fiber optic networks, the MTR516 microtrencher attachment is a practical tool. It cuts a narrow, shallow trench, which means less cutting and less backfill.
Guzzler
For the team at Day Excavation in Phoenix, Arizona, the day begins as early as allowed, often starting their work microtrenching at 6:30 a.m. That enables the crew to beat temperatures as high as 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Using the Guzzler MT, they’re often done cutting by 10 a.m.
Bear Day, Christopher Day and Jerry Day are the co-owners of Day Excavation LLC. The brothers were working on the road for a dozen years when they decided they wanted to stay closer to home. When they first heard about microtrenching, they were intrigued and began teaching themselves about the process.
They began their own company five years ago and then started microtrenching three years ago. Now the crew has expanded to 20 people.
To continue the company’s rapid growth in microtrenching, the Day brothers have relied on the Guzzler MT, a microtrenching vacuum unit that significantly speeds up fiber optic installations by swiftly cleaning trenches for the deployment of FTTH, FTTP, CCTV, smart grid, and electric networks.
Increased efficiency is something the Days recognized in helping their bottom line. With the Guzzler MT, they’ve been able to cut up to 3,000 feet in one span. Christopher Day estimates they’re cutting 3,000 feet in three hours whereas with a pull-behind vac they’d be lucky to accomplish that amount in 10 hours.
The record for the crew is 5,500 feet and 41 handholds.
When it came time to decide on a machine to help the brothers in jumping into the world of microtrenching, they were originally going to use a pull-behind vac truck, but then they reached out to Guzzler. The Guzzler team had a demo out to them in just a few days.
Previously taking time to dump the accumulated material necessitated trips back and forth to dump sites. With the Guzzler MT’s capacity, operators and crews can work much longer, nearly an entire day before going to the location to dump the accumulated materials.
Minimal dumping is a big deal as Bear Day noted the dumping fees in Arizona. Christopher Day said they’d have to dump every 45 minutes if it wasn’t for their Guzzler MT.
Another benefit of the Guzzler MT is how quiet it is. With the team starting at 6 a.m. to beat the high temps of Arizona yet working in neighborhoods, a huge benefit is that noise reduction.
“You can barely hear the thing,” said Bear Day of the Guzzler MT. “We try to start earlier and get off as quick as possible so we’re not disrupting everyone.”
One of the biggest productivity features on the Guzzler MT is the creep drive. The Guzzler MT vacuums as the vehicle moves along, eliminating the need to start and stop as production moves forward. Instead of needing to go back and clean after trenching, the Guzzler MT’s filtration and baghouse enable great suction for cleaner trenches on the first go and less impact on the air quality.
Another feature the brothers appreciate are the cameras on the Guzzler MT, which enable Day Excavation to only have a three-person team on a job instead of four or five. The cameras’ multiple angles make it so a spotter isn’t needed.
Yanmar
Yanmar America Corporation launched its innovative 4TN86DHT engine series, featuring three models designed to meet diverse industrial equipment application requirements. The new lineup includes the base 4TN86DHT-XNYEM model, alongside optional power pack models, such as the 4TN86DHT-XNYEM-PIH-P and the 4TN86DHT-XNYEM-PIH-S.
The 4TN86DHT series features robust 4-cylinder, 2.09-liter (127 cubic inch) displacement engines, delivering an impressive 59 horsepower (44.0 kW) output while maintaining exceptional fuel efficiency at 3.37 gallons per hour (12.8 liters/hour). Operating at a rated speed of 2,500 RPM, the engines utilize turbocharged and intercooled aspiration, combined with common-rail direct-injection fuel delivery, for optimal performance across a wide range of operating conditions.
Built on Yanmar's proven TNV design foundation, these engines incorporate advanced Final Tier 4 and EU Stage V emission control technology without compromising the reliability and torque that has made Yanmar a trusted name in the industry.
The additional models with power packs include the 4TN86DHT-XNYEM-PIH-P with a pusher fan and a 4TN86DHT-XNYEM-PIH-S with a puller fan. A puller or pusher fan combined with the diesel engine helps improve cooling efficiency. Puller fans benefit from equipment running at lower speeds and higher temperatures, while pusher fans are more effective at higher speeds. These models are available for different equipment designs depending on the application.
As with all Yanmar engines, industrial equipment manufacturers who choose the 4TN86DHT benefit from Yanmar’s engineering services which will collaborate to customize engines according to the specific machinery requirements and product vision of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
CASE
CASE Construction Equipment introduced two new compact, feature-packed midi excavators designed to bolster productivity and flexibility on the job. The CX85E and CX90E midi excavators offer heavy-duty performance without sacrificing maneuverability. They are ideal for construction crews working in residential or commercial construction sites, landscapers who are trenching, lifting, grading and digging, or rental companies seeking to offer a wider range of excavator options for their customers.
Combining space-saving dimensions with heavyweight performance, these new midi excavators boast a robust 72-horsepower engine that provides ample power for aggressive digging, land clearing, craning, loading or using high-performance attachments. Operating weight on the CX85E is 19,467 pounds (8,830 kg) while the CX90E operating weight is 20,305 pounds (9,210 kg).
Both machines include a comprehensive hydraulic package with standard auxiliary, drain-to-tank functionality and quick coupler circuits to drive a wide array of advanced attachments. These features eliminate the need for aftermarket modifications and make these machines well-suited for tackling various tasks across diverse job sites – whether running hammers, rippers, augers, thumbs, buckets or grapples.
The new midi excavators are also designed to maximize output in confined work zones where larger excavators can’t fit but would otherwise be right for the job. The fixed-boom CX85E delivers maximum performance in tight spaces with zero tailswing, which allows operators to work up against walls, fences or other structures. The optimized swing boom on the CX90E provides 180 degrees of movement with superior reach and dig depth for trenching and confined-space excavation.
Both models pack a range of advanced features and options that deliver the capabilities and efficiency crews need to meet the challenges of demanding worksites. With options for full rubber tracks, steel tracks in multiple widths or steel tracks with rubber pads, contractors can customize and optimize their machines to match the terrain of their applications. In addition, an optional LED light package delivers industry-leading light coverage, letting crews maximize visibility for working day or night.
The CX85E and CX90E also simplify maintenance. A tilting cab gives operators fast and easy access to hydraulic components, while wide compartments, swing-out side panels and ground-level service points make routine maintenance and daily checks more efficient.
Also meeting that goal, CASE launched its new CX380E large excavator. The 268-horsepower, 83,114-pound (37,700 kg) unit is the newest addition to CASE’s robust excavator lineup.
Whether it’s clearing land, trenching, craning pipes on construction and road sites, or even breaking rock, the CX380E gives crews brute power and intelligent hydraulics for more productivity. Rental companies can also count on the CX380E to expand customer options for a dependable job-site workhorse.
The CX380E is built for heavy-duty tasks, with 56,000 lbs. of breakout force and fast cycle times. Operators can adjust the power to the task with four fuel-efficient work modes in a range up to 10 throttle settings: Super Power, Power, Eco and Lifting. Eco mode lowers fuel consumption by up to 18 percent compared to previous CASE excavators. In addition, CASE telematics and software provide precise data to measure fuel usage and other metrics to further improve efficiency.
Like all CASE E Series large excavators, the CX380E offers advanced controls and customizable sensitivity settings so that users can dial in responses exactly to their preferences for easier operation. The 10-inch touchscreen lets operators store settings for up to 10 attachments (one-way and two-way) on one screen, making it simple to change attachments in seconds at the touch of a button — instead of hours — while reducing the risk of downtime or damage from overloading the attachment. The intelligent Hydraulic Flow Control Balance also makes the excavator even more responsive and efficient by customizing the priority of hydraulic flow used for movements like arm in and boom up as well as arm in and swinging.
For added control, the CX380E features selectable free swing functionality, giving operators more stability and improved safety with less fatigue when lifting and placing swinging loads, working on uneven terrain or loading trucks. Along with advanced controls, operators can also work more confidently using the 270-degree camera which provides a bird’s-eye view via the display screen for improved visibility and safer operation, as well as setting up arm and swing preferences.
For maintenance and serviceability, the CX380E has advanced telematics, allowing dealers to run diagnostics and update software remotely without the need for an on-site service technician – saving time and money while promoting more uptime. In addition, the comprehensive CASE ProCare heavy machine support program comes standard, with a 3-year/3,000-hour full machine factory warranty, plus 3-year/2,000-hour planned maintenance support and a 5-year advanced telematics subscription.
John Deere
With the launch of its next-generation 524 P-Tier, 544 P-Tier and 624 P-Tier Wheel Loaders, John Deere is delivering smart solutions that help boost productivity and support operator confidence on the job site. Built on the trusted foundation of the current P-Tier lineup, these updated models are loaded with enhanced technology and job readiness features that empower contractors to do more with less, support safety and help drive down operating costs.
Designed to make job sites more productive, the updated P-Tier Wheel Loaders feature an integrated suite of smart systems that simplify maintenance and aid in getting machines Ready to Run. With advanced on-board diagnostics, including daily fluid checks, fluid loss detection, and battery health monitoring, all easily accessible through the in-cab display, operators can manage uptime with confidence.
The John Deere exclusive QuadCool Cooling System is a highlight in durability and serviceability in the updated P-Tier Wheel Loaders. Redesigned rear hoods, grilles and cab roofs eliminate the need to climb on the machine for maintenance, while side-access planes simplify cleaning of the condenser and radiator. The newly relocated axle cooling system is now easier to access and maintain, and a reverse fan clears debris out through the side doors, designed to minimize buildup beneath the machine. In addition, the rear door opens independently from the sides, making daily maintenance more convenient.
Inside the cab, operators will now benefit from the new, next-generation primary display, a 7-inch primary touchscreen that offers a larger interface and intuitive navigation that helps to enhance operator focus and simplifies operation. This display enables a new in-base rear camera view and supports the ability to run two applications simultaneously, including the backup camera. Also, physical buttons have been removed from the display face to improve user experience, while key machine functions remain easily accessible. An optional G5 secondary display is available to further enhance operator control and customization, offering expanded functionality in a dual-screen layout.
To further boost job-site performance, the P-Tier models can now be equipped with SmartDetect from the factory. This optional camera-based system enhances operator awareness by detecting objects and people near the machine and provides visual and distinctive audible bystander alerts on the in-cab display.
Lastly, to support greater material handling efficiency, the P-Tier Wheel Loaders are now available with new high-strength steel buckets featuring extended lips. These redesigned buckets increase material holding capacity by approximately five percent, allowing customers to move more material per pass and finish jobs more quickly.
Caterpillar
New Cat Single Life Cutting Edges deliver high wear life and simplified maintenance
- Eliminates cutting edge wear monitoring and downtime for flipping
- Provides long wear life, even in high impact and high abrasion applications
- Provides up to 40 percent lower cost and up to 45 percent more value
The new Cat Single Life Cutting Edges for Cat medium wheel loaders features a single bevel design that eliminates the need to monitor wear for flipping edges. Made from through-hardened DH-2 steel, these new ground engaging tools (GET) from Caterpillar are thicker and provide similar or better life to the standard cutting edge option.
These new cutting edges endure a wide range of applications, including both high impact and abrasion, for the Cat 950, 962, 966, 972, 980 and 982 loader series, including XE and GC models.
Compared to standard systems, the new Cat Single Life Cutting Edges offer similar or better wear life, but at a lower price point. Reducing the need to monitor wear, the single bevel simplifies maintenance, since there is no downtime or need for new hardware to flip the edges mid-life.
The new single life edges expand Caterpillar’s broad portfolio of edge solutions, designed to increase the wheel loader’s productivity by reducing operating and maintenance interval costs. The adaptable design is retrofittable to aftermarket buckets with the same hole pattern.
Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed. Caterpillar does business on every continent, principally operating through three primary segments – Construction Industries, Resource Industries and Energy & Transportation – and providing financing and related services through our Financial Products segment.
CMSI
North American-based CMSI (Composite Manufacturer of Sustainable Infrastructure) is making waves in the international infrastructure community with its innovative Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) design and manufacturing solutions, delivering sustainable, high-performance alternatives to traditional materials for civil and industrial applications.
CMSI’s advanced FRP systems are engineered to resist corrosion, reduce maintenance, and significantly reduce manufacturing, and installation timelines – solving some of the most pressing challenges in infrastructure today.
Backed by proven relationships with the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, ERDC, US Navy, leading contractors, and engineering firms across North America, CMSI specializes in the design and fabrication of FRP systems tailored for extreme environments. Its composite components offer impressive strength-to-weight capacity, while remaining up to 70-percent lighter than concrete or steel.
KEEN Utility
KEEN Utility’s new Synchro is its lightest waterproof work boot to date and evolves how waterproof work footwear fits, feels, and performs.
Built with the newest KEEN.ReGEN+ midsole foam returning over 60-percent energy with every step, the Synchro propels workflow and boasts a redesigned carbon toe with a sleek, non-bulbous fit and KEEN.LOCKFIT technology in the heel that provides lateral stability.
Other performance features include a sticky rubber outsole that increases grip and an athletic mesh upper featuring a KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane for indoor and outdoor versatility. Built to handle nonstop workloads, the Synchro is available for both men and women.
Comments