ORKNEY-based surfacing and contracting company BDS Plant Hire (Orkney) has transitioned to the latest generation of large Cat pavers in a bid to enhance operational efficiency.
Finning UK & Ireland revealed how it worked with the firm to provide guidance, product insight, and support to ensure a ‘smooth and successful’ upgrade to modern paving technology.
Italian engineering company Bitelli, known for its asphalt pavers, road rollers, soil stabilisers and cold planers was acquired by Caterpillar in 2000. BDS Plant Hire have remained loyal to Bitelli products during this time and were seeking the same operational standards, with added technology and efficiencies, as they sought to transition their fleet.
Charlie Sinclair, director at BDS Plant Hire (Orkney), explained, “Bitelli products have always served our business well and it has been a big step to move away from what we know works; however, we have been really impressed with the latest generation of Cat pavers and the efficiency’s and technology they deliver.
“Our move to Cat machines not only reflects our commitment to innovation and to delivering the most efficient and reliable service on site but also reinforces the role Finning play as a trusted partner as they have continued to support our business at every stage of our growth and evolution.”
With regional infrastructure challenges including the impact of climate change, economic and regulatory constraints, a large pipeline of large-scale infrastructure work, and challenging geographical environments in Scotland, Finning said that machine efficiency, durability and productivity are becoming increasingly essential to local business owners and plant operators.
Caterpillar’s latest paving equipment is described as offering ‘significant advancements’ in automation, fuel efficiency, and paving precision.
Paul Walton, sales manager, paving and compaction, at Finning UK & Ireland, said, “A long-standing customer of Finning, BDS Plant Hire was looking to transition its fleet, and in doing so increase operational versatility, efficiency and productivity to meet industry demand.
“We were pleased to work with BDS Plant Hire to offer industry insight and guidance, supporting the customer’s needs to deliver the latest Cat AP500 wheel asphalt paver. This machine is well-matched to meet the specific realities of Scottish infrastructure work, thanks to the combination of compact dimensions, permit-free transport, Stage V compliance, durability and wide-screed range and will help BDS deliver efficiency and reliability across a range of projects.”
