Understanding Technology in Concrete Machines

While we may think that technological change is in every segment of every industry, that isn't necessarily true. Some industry segments have seen constant integration of new technology, while others maintain designs that have remained unchanged for decades. However, as technology progresses, these segments are moving away from the question of "Why should we adapt?" to "How do we adapt?" as today's technology provides many benefits for OEMs and end users. This inquiry looks toward the future and the potential possibilities for technological growth in concrete machines.

Concrete machines, whether mixer trucks or slipform pavers, demands a certain level of power and finesse, according to Brad Bardall, Regional Vice President of Mobile Sales at Bosch Rexroth, and Kevin Kegarise, Vice President of Mobile Sales at Morrell Group. The technology on these applications must be perfected to meet the stringent demands of concrete as it's mixed, transported, or poured. Brad continues to explain how speed control and equipment reliability are top priorities, so integrating and adapting to the latest technologies, such as electronic controls and optimized hydraulic system components, help concrete machines OEMs ensure their applications are meeting the expectations of today's mobile market.

Morrell Group and Bosch Rexroth provide a comprehensive product portfolio and engineering support for OEMs of concrete machines. This product offering includes Rexroth's BODAS portfolio, which offers software packaging for assistance and controllability. BODAS simplifies the control of various application functions on concrete machines through telematics and GPS. Brad and Kevin explain that GPS conveys information about the height or curve of the paving mechanism on slipform pavers, as well as the concrete's smoothness, finish, topography, and gradeability. At the same time, telematics provides machinery data for positioning and load management in concrete mixer trucks. Embracing and adapting to today's technology, like electronic controls with Rexroth's BODAS, allows OEMs of concrete machines to enhance their applications' efficiency and productivity.

By partnering and collaborating with Morrell Group and Bosch Rexroth, OEMs can focus more on optimizing and fine-tuning their equipment rather than investing time and resources in adapting, as our engineering teams already possess the expertise required to provide the necessary products and create the programming to integrate and utilize this next-generation technology in the mobile market.

Brad and Kevin enthusiastically agree that the future of concrete machines extends beyond optimized hydraulics and electronic controls. Sustainable energy is increasingly becoming a priority for Rexroth and Morrell. Brad anticipates that OEMs will align with the electrification movement and incorporate hydrogen as an alternative fuel source as they become more conscious of their machinery's productivity and efficiency.

To learn more about Bosch Rexroth and its role in mobile hydraulics, visit https://www.boschrexroth.com/en/us/products/product-groups/mobile-hydraulics-and-electronics/. To learn more about Morrell Group and our comprehensive solutions for concrete machines, visit https://morrell-group.com.