Construction

Giatec and Sika aim to ehance digital concrete technology

Digital concrete technology company Giatec has announced a commercial partnership with specialty chemicals manufacturer Sika aimed at accelerating the adoption of data-driven solutions across the global concrete value chain.

The collaboration will combine Giatec’s digital monitoring and analytics platforms with Sika’s extensive global presence and expertise in construction materials. Through the partnership, the companies intend to expand the use of intelligent technologies in concrete production, transportation, placement and long-term performance monitoring.

Sika operates in more than 100 countries and offers a broad portfolio of construction solutions, including high-performance concrete admixtures and advanced building systems. By integrating Giatec’s digital tools into Sika’s global network, the two companies expect to broaden access to technologies that help construction firms optimise quality control, efficiency and sustainability.

Ivo Schädler, Head Construction at Sika, said the collaboration reflects a shared ambition to support the industry’s transition towards more digitally enabled operations.

“By combining Sika’s materials science and construction expertise with Giatec’s innovative digital concrete solutions, we aim to help the sector move away from reactive methods towards proactive, data-enabled decision-making,” he said. “This approach can improve project quality, boost productivity and support more sustainable construction outcomes.”

The announcement comes as the construction sector increasingly embraces digital tools and artificial intelligence. Industry forecasts indicate that the global market for AI-driven construction technologies could expand significantly over the next decade, driven by demand for improved productivity, cost control and environmental performance.

Giatec’s technology ecosystem includes wireless concrete sensors, artificial intelligence-based software platforms and in-transit monitoring tools designed to provide real-time data on concrete behaviour during transport and placement. According to the company, these systems help contractors and producers improve consistency, reduce material waste and make faster operational decisions.

Pouria Ghods, CEO and co-founder of Giatec, described the agreement as a key step in expanding the company’s global impact. He noted that combining Sika’s global reach with Giatec’s digital expertise will help address long-standing challenges related to efficiency, performance and sustainability within the construction sector.

“Together we can deliver measurable value for producers, contractors and project owners by providing greater transparency and insight into concrete performance,” Ghods said.

Both companies are showcasing their technologies and discussing the partnership with industry stakeholders at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, where representatives are presenting solutions designed to support the digital transformation of construction practices.

Cat launches new diesel options for construction equipment

Cat expands diesel power options for construction machinery. (Image source: Caterpillar)

Caterpillar is introducing a new twin-turbo, 173-horsepower (129 kW) option for the Cat C3.6 diesel engine engineered for small- to medium-sized construction equipment

Announced at the CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 event this week, it offers a 21% increase in power over Caterpillar’s current lineup of 3.6-litre engines meeting US EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage V emission standards.

The 173-hp C3.6 achieves the higher power rating through an upgraded combustion system and reinforced core components, improving machine performance through higher torque, greater uptime, and lower total operating costs without increasing size or complexity.

Also at the event, the company will showcase the 74 hp Cat C2.2 engine, the power-dense 690 hp C13D engine under development, the 800 hp C18 series-turbocharged engine, and a remanufactured C7 highlighting the advantages of restoring old components to like-new performance.

“As the construction landscape changes, our extensive portfolio of solutions and expertise, from full-fleet jobsites through to a full range of optimised diesel engines, will help solve our customers toughest challenges,” said Steve Ferguson, senior vice-president of Caterpillar Industrial Power Systems.

CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 marks the first showing of the new up to 173 hp (129 kW) high horsepower diesel engine, the latest addition to the C3.6 range, which also includes 74 hp (55 kW) and 142 hp (106 kW) ratings.

To meet customers’ ongoing needs for higher power density power systems, which boost machine capability without increasing size or complexity, the twin-turbo C3.6 has been designed to deliver higher torque, greater uptime, and lower total operating costs for a range of equipment including wheel excavators, dumper trucks, soil compactors, backhoe loaders, asphalt pavers and telehandlers.

To achieve up to 173 hp (129 kW) and 546 lb ft (740 Nm) at 1500 rpm of power density from the proven 3.6 litre, four-cylinder platform, engineers have upgraded the combustion system to achieve maximum power and efficiency and have strengthened many core components.

The new offering offers end users up to 1000-hour oil and fuel filter intervals and gives customers greater fuel flexibility, as the engine is compatible with B20 biodiesel, 100% HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil), and other sustainable fuels.

The high horsepower variant has been designed for low fluid consumption while delivering the required power across high, medium and low load operations.

With a transparent, maintenance free after-treatment system with no downtime, the engine is set to deliver serious power in a compact footprint for a wide range of OEMs whose equipment is the bedrock of construction sites around the world, according to Ferguson.

“The customer requirement for high power density to boost machine capability without increasing engine size or complexity has driven the launch of this new high horsepower C3.6 and the C13D which we unveiled at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023,” he said.

“Given that internal combustion engines remain the dominant power solution across global jobsites; we continue to strategically invest in advanced diesel engine technologies that help customers tackle their daily challenges.”

The Caterpillar booth features the C13D diesel engine platform, designed to achieve best-in-class power density, torque and fuel efficiency for optimising the performance of heavy duty off-highway applications, including rock crushers, screeners, and grinders; trenchers; agriculture tractors, harvesters and self-propelled sprayers; woodchippers; material-handling equipment; and large industrial pumps.

For customers considering a range of power solutions for their equipment, the booth also features a C9.3B fitted with a diesel-electric power unit.

Michelin launches XHA3 earthmover tyre at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026

Dangote seals XCMG refinery, infrastructure pact

Prinoth unveils flagship Panther T23r at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026

Panther T23r debuts with PowerForce. (Image source: Prinoth)

Prinoth has officially launched its new flagship Panther T23r, describing it as the largest and most advanced rotating crawler carrier in the industry. The debut took place during a press conference at Conexpo-Conagg 2026

The Panther T23r is the first machine to incorporate Prinoth’s newly developed PowerForce undercarriage, an innovation that forms the basis of more than 20 patent applications. The system is engineered to significantly enhance terrain capability, operational efficiency and overall machine performance.

With a payload capacity of 22.5 short tons, the T23r combines high carrying capacity with relatively compact dimensions. The unit measures 9.8 feet wide, 10.8 feet tall and has a total weight of 40 tons. Its 360 degree continuous rotating upper structure, paired with a rounded Hardox steel dump box and telescopic cylinder, allows for precise material placement in confined or restricted worksites where traditional haulers may struggle to operate.

At the core of the machine’s performance is the PowerForce undercarriage. Unlike conventional rigid walking beam systems that transmit terrain shocks directly to the operator and payload, the new design absorbs ground irregularities while optimising power transfer. This enables improved travel speeds, reduced fuel consumption and greater operator comfort.

The Adaptive Independent Suspension System positions eight wheels on individual arms, each offering seven inches of travel supported by hydro-pneumatic shock absorbers. These automatically adapt to load variations, maintaining consistent ride quality whether the carrier is operating empty at 41,200 pounds or fully loaded at 85,400 pounds. 60% of the load is strategically distributed to the centre wheels, enhancing zero-turn manoeuvrability and lowering ground pressure.

Engineers have also introduced an oblong, oval-shaped track configuration that reduces bend points by 50% and doubles the bend radius compared to traditional systems. This approach minimises energy loss during each track cycle, ensuring more engine output is translated into forward motion. The expanded ground contact area further improves flotation in soft terrain and traction on inclines.

Precision track alignment is another defining feature, with pitch accuracy said to be ten times greater than standard crawler carriers. The system incorporates precise link spacing and an auto-centering “fox head” profile, enabling planetary drives to engage 15 teeth simultaneously instead of relying on single-point contact. The combined roller and wheel arrangement is designed to virtually eliminate de-tracking during demanding manoeuvres, reducing downtime and extending track life.

The undercarriage also benefits from an automatic dual-action tensioning system that continuously adjusts track tension according to operating conditions. When lightly loaded, tension is reduced to limit wear. Under heavier loads or when greater traction is required, tension increases automatically. This real-time adjustment is intended to maximise performance while prolonging service life.

The Panther T23r’s dump box has been redesigned with a rounded, deep-section Hardox steel profile to support smoother material discharge and minimise carryback, particularly when handling sticky soils or aggregates. The box has been repositioned closer to the undercarriage centreline, improving centre of gravity and balancing loads across the suspension and central bearing. This refinement helps lower structural stress and overall frame complexity.

The machine is equipped with a newly designed cab featuring a near centre-mounted operator seat for improved visibility, especially to the right side where ground crews typically operate. Standard features include an air-ride seat, 7 inch touchscreen display, ergonomic joystick controls for dumping and rotation, intuitive steering wheel and foot throttle system, sun visor and cruise control to reduce fatigue over long shifts. An optional buddy seat is available.

“Customers are pushing farther into remote, sensitive and high-consequence environments,” said Frank M Gangi, product manager for the Prinoth Panther. “With the Panther T23r, we set out to give them a machine that feels completely in control on those sites, with a payload and undercarriage that lets them haul more in fewer passes while protecting the jobsite and the machine.”

A public unveiling ceremony will take place on Tuesday, March 3 at 4:30 PM PST at the Prinoth booth #W43845 in the West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The Panther T23r will remain on display at the booth from March 3 to 7.

Michelin launches XHA3 earthmover tyre at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026

XHA3 boosts loader and grader performance. (Image source: Michelin)

At ConExpo 2026, Michelin North America, Inc. unveiled its latest earthmover tyre, the Michelin XHA3, positioning it as the next step forward in loader and grader tyre performance

Developed as the successor to the well-established Michelin XHA2, the new XHA3 is engineered to meet the increasing demands of modern construction equipment, offering higher load capacity, improved ton-per-hour (TKPH) capability and a redesigned tread pattern tailored for today’s heavier, more productive machines.

“With the Michelin XHA3 tire, we’re building on a heritage our customers trust while delivering the next level of performance they demand,” said Yahn Heurlin, vice-president of Marketing, Michelin North America.

“Construction equipment continues to evolve with higher loads, longer duty cycles and greater productivity expectations. The XHA3 tire, is designed to help fleets unlock more ton-per-hour performance, carry heavier loads with confidence and extend tire life, all while reducing total cost of ownership.”

The XHA3 replaces several previous product lines, including the XHA2, XADN+, XAD65 and XLD, representing Michelin’s most substantial advancement in this category in over ten years. The consolidation reflects a strategic move to deliver a single, more capable solution for a wide range of loader and grader applications.

Designed specifically for the operational realities of contemporary construction fleets, the XHA3 focuses on measurable gains in productivity while safeguarding long-term equipment value. By integrating the proven foundation of the XHA2 with next-generation structural and tread enhancements, Michelin aims to provide operators with a tyre that supports heavier loads, extended duty cycles and greater overall efficiency on site.

The new tread design has been developed to enhance durability and performance under demanding conditions, aligning with evolving fleet requirements for higher output and reliability. At the same time, the increased TKPH capability allows machines to operate more effectively in high-intensity environments without compromising tyre life.

With the launch of the Michelin XHA3 at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, Michelin underscores its continued focus on innovation and performance-driven solutions for the construction industry. The company states that the new tyre is built to help customers move more material, operate more efficiently and strengthen profitability across their operations.

Dangote seals XCMG refinery, infrastructure pact

Aliko Dangote, president and CEO of Dangote Group, flanked by XCMG machinery (Image source: XCMG)

Dangote Group has signed a US$400mn equipment deal with China's Xuzhou Construction Machinery Group (XCMG) to accelerate the expansion of its Nigerian oil refinery

The goal is to expand output at the refinery, which now plays an integral part in meeting Nigeria’s domestic fuel needs, to 1.4 million barrels per day (bpd).

The strategic agreement is also aimed at strengthening infrastructure delivery, industrial capacity and green project development across other projects in Africa in refining and petrochemicals, as well as agriculture and infrastructure.

“Under the agreement, the two companies will collaborate across multiple sectors including mining, petrochemicals, building materials, agriculture and infrastructure construction, leveraging their respective strengths to pursue joint growth and long-term value creation,”a Dangote statement read.

Dangote Group, Africa’s largest diversified industrial conglomerate, operates across cement manufacturing, petrochemicals, fertiliser, agriculture, food processing, mining, ports and logistics in Nigeria and several other African countries.

The group is currently accelerating capacity expansion and regional market development as part of its strategic ambition to reach US$100bn in scale by 2030.

As part of the collaboration, XCMG will support Dangote through its established African sales and service network, while also facilitating visits by Dangote personnel to China and providing logistical assistance.

XCMG will also deploy dedicated project teams to develop integrated equipment and service solutions for Dangote projects, particularly in open pit mining, petrochemicals, building materials and agricultural processing.

“The deal reflects Dangote Group’s broader push to deepen industrial capacity across Africa through strategic global partnerships, while aligning with XCMG’s ambition to expand its footprint and service offering on the continent,” the Dangote statement noted.

In an XCMG statement, Aliko Dangote, president and CEO of Dangote Group, remarked that XCMG’s manufacturing capabilities were impressive and had strengthened his confidence in jointly advancing Africa’s green industrial development.

Dangote visited China recently to meet Yang Dongsheng, chairman of XCMG, and other senior executives.

He “praised XCMG’s global strategy, intelligent manufacturing capabilities, product reliability, and full life-cycle service system, highlighting the company’s strengths in the international marketplace,” according to the XCMG statement.

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