Kirby-Smith Machinery Inc. (KSM) showcased advanced machine technology and how contractors can put it to work for them during its recent Technology Days hosted by KSM’s Abilene, Dallas and Oklahoma City branches. Abilene Sales and Operations Manager Justin Ashlock said the events highlighted not only equipment, but the solutions and support KSM offers.
“We have well-trained technology solutions experts who can help customers adopt and utilize the latest technology that’s designed to optimize productivity, efficiency and provide cost savings,” said Ashlock. “Everyone is familiar with Komatsu’s intelligent machine control dozers and excavators with integrated GPS, but they might not know what’s available as an add-on to a Takeuchi compact track loader or the innovative technology in the WIRTGEN GROUP line, such as stringless paving. Technology Days bring that to the forefront.”
Members of KSM’s Smart Construction team were on hand to answer customers’ questions about machine control technology as well as jobsite solutions that offer everything from remote jobsite file updates to drone mapping and quantity calculations to timecard management.
“Technology Days allow us to bring customers into a controlled site, let them operate live machines and get their hands on the technology to see and feel how it looks and operates,” explained Dennis Cox, Director of Smart Construction, KSM. “Some of the primary benefits of utilizing machine technology are shorter completion times, savings on wear and tear and fuel usage, longer undercarriage life, and the safety of not having to have as many grade checkers on the ground and near machines. With Komatsu, we’re recognized for being experts with Topcon, but we also are now an authorized Trimble dealer, which opens up further possibilities for us and our customers.”
Operate several products
Attendees had the opportunity to operate several pieces of equipment at each location. Among them were Komatsu intelligent machine control (IMC) dozers and excavators, as well as a Komatsu motor grader equipped with an add-on GPS system. Additional GPS-equipped machines included Takeuchi compact loaders with an add-on Level Best grading attachment. Customers could also operate equipment such as a WIRTGEN WR 200 XLi stabilizer/recycler and see other products in the WIRTGEN GROUP lineup, including a VÖGELE Super 2003-3i paver, a HAMM HD+ 140i high-frequency roller and a KLEEMANN MSC 953 triple-deck screen.
“There is a lot of advanced technology in these machines that are designed to make paving, compaction, stabilizing and crushing/screening more efficient than ever,” stated Matt White, Senior Paving & Compaction Specialist, KSM. “We have specialists dedicated to these machines and others, and Technology Days is a way for customers to meet with them and see how these machines can help improve their operations, and several are available through our rental fleet.”
Manufacturer representatives from WIRTGEN, Komatsu and Takeuchi were also available to answer questions, as well as representatives from NPK, Montabert, Lehnhoff, LaBounty, Strickland, Terramac and Vacall, among others. KSM paired some of the manufacturing lines together to spotlight their versatility such as the Komatsu HB365LC-3 hybrid excavator equipped with a Lehnhoff coupler and an NPK hammer.
“One of the things we’re really proud of is the breadth of the products and the people we have who provide solutions,” commented Gavin Cole, Executive Vice President of Sales, KSM. “This event allows customers to meet a multitude of vendors as well as KSM personnel who can design unique, tailored solutions. With our lineup of products and experts across multiple industries, we can meet practically any individual need.”
KSM Regional Product Support Sales Manager Cody Christopher emphasized that the events were about more than machines, hardware and software.
“We want customers to understand that we’re here to support whatever need they have and build long-term relationships,” said Christopher. “Regardless of the brands of equipment they use, we want to partner with them and bring value to their business. These events give us a chance to show that, and we’re honored that customers took time out of their busy schedules to come out, run some equipment, have lunch, and learn more about the products, technology and service that Kirby-Smith offers.”
Attendees’ reactions
Sam Hanlan with SGH Construction of Cross Plains, Texas, came to the Abilene event to check out the technology and how it could possibly help his operation.
“We weren’t sure what in particular we were looking for, so we came to talk with KSM and figure that out,” said Hanlan. “There is a lot of knowledge here, so that’s very helpful.”
Jerrod Madden with H&H Plumbing of Norman, Okla., was interested in checking out the Komatsu IMC excavators at the Oklahoma City event. H&H Plumbing currently runs standard Komatsu excavators, including PC360 and PC490 models.
“It was pretty amazing and a lot smoother than what I had in mind before running it,” reflected Madden after operating a PC360LCi-11. “It can minimize waste and cut down on surveying, which is a significant cost for us. We weren’t that interested in them in the past. We definitely are now. This is a very fun, informative event.”
Victor Genis with the city of Grand Prairie, Texas, attended the Dallas event to learn more about both equipment and technology.
“We wanted to get a better idea of what’s available, what’s coming and what new technology we can use to improve our service for our city,” noted Genis. “This is a great event.”
*The opinions expressed here are from the end user as quoted. The results described herein are those of these end users under certain conditions. Individual results may vary.
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