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The impact of rising fuel prices on the construction industry in South Africa-and how the new CAT® 966 GC will work
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Rising fuel prices are not a new phenomenon-South Africans have been facing these problems for years. But their current growth rate is shocking, and it is having a knock-on effect on the entire enterprise and industry. If you are in the mining or construction industry and are looking for ways to save operating costs-to be honest, who is not-Barloworld Equipment's latest CAT® 966 GC wheel loader may be the machine you have been waiting for.
The monthly data released by the Automobile Association (AA) and the fuel price data released by the Central Energy Fund reveal some interesting trends in fuel prices over the past decade. Ten years ago, South Africans paid R10,77* per liter for lead-free 95. Five years later, the price rose to R13,05 per liter. Fast forward to 2021, and we are now paying a staggering R19,54 per liter, and the price has risen by nearly 50% in just five years. However, what is more surprising is how much fuel prices have risen this year alone, from 14.86 rand per liter in January to 19.54 rand per liter in November-an increase of 31.4%. The same trend applies to lead-free 93, which rose from R14,69 per liter in January to R19,32 per liter in November.
But what about diesel? In this category, the obvious upward trend of unleaded fuel continues, with diesel 50PPM increasing from R10,08 per liter in 2011 to R11,39 in 2016. From here it increased to R13,03 in January this year, and then jumped by 32,2% to R17,23 in November.
*All quotations are inland prices and are accurate at the time of printing. Unless otherwise specified, all quoted figures refer to November.
Given that fuel prices are mainly affected by the exchange rate of the rand against the US dollar and fluctuations in the cost of international petroleum products, it is difficult to predict. However, given the data of the past 10 years, it is fairly safe to assume that prices will continue their current trajectory.
"This is why fuel efficiency is such a critical factor when choosing a wheel loader for your business. This is where the CAT® 966 GC really comes into play. Because the ratio of fuel input to production output is carefully balanced, this Medium-sized wheel loaders can achieve excellent fuel efficiency without compromising performance," said Vasco Santos, Barloworld Equipment's executive director of construction, leasing and use.
Let us take a closer look at the fuel-saving features of this multifunctional machine.
Engine Idle Speed Management System (EIMS)
CAT® 966 GC includes an EIMS software system with four idle speed control settings-sleep mode, working mode, low voltage mode and warm-up mode-all of these settings are designed to reduce idle RPM and fuel in applications that require a lot of idle speed Consumption.
The electronically controlled, hydraulically driven variable speed cooling fan can be adjusted to meet the changing cooling requirements of the machine. This causes the average fan speed to decrease, which in turn reduces fuel consumption, noise, and radiator blockage.
The easy-to-load Performance series buckets on the CAT® 966 GC are designed with long bottom plates, wide openings and curved side panels to ensure that operators of all experience levels can always increase the bucket fill factor by 10%. The result? Shorten cycle time and reduce fuel consumption.
The load-sensing hydraulic system generates flow and pressure for the implement system as needed, and generates flow and pressure only in the amount required to perform the required work function. This improves machine productivity, thereby reducing fuel consumption.
When it comes to ensuring fuel efficiency, it is also important to ensure that your machine is well maintained and operating at optimal capacity. CAT® 966 GC again provides many design features aimed at ease of maintenance and repair.
To learn more about Barloworld Equipment CAT® 966 GC and how to add it to your equipment with easy monthly installments, please visit https://www.barloworld-equipment.com.
As the sole distributor of CAT®️ earth-moving machinery and related mining and construction equipment in Southern Africa, we provide the equipment with the lowest total ownership and operating costs throughout its life cycle. The equipment is supported by an experienced team of experts who have the knowledge needed to make the most of the machine. As a company, we are committed to maintaining the highest safety standards and minimizing our environmental impact throughout our operational footprint. With our more than 100 years of success record, you can expect excellent service and a relaxing experience every time.
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