The Competitive Edge Journal has More!
The Competitive Edge Journal just keeps on growing. As of March 1st, 20 new job and product procurement categories were added. This was in response to requests from a number of subscribers. With the new categories, Fernando Pereira, the editor of the Competitive Edge Journal, estimates as many as 1000 new government RFQ’s (Request for Quote), RFB (Request for Bid) and RFP’s (Request for Proposal) every week.

"All levels of government are requesting quotes on many items and projects that were not awarded through a competitive bid process in the past" said Pereira. "But with the strict new transparency regulations in place, our subscribers are getting opportunities to bid on projects or products that were closed to them previously."

With the recent decision by the FocusOn Group, the publisher of the Competitive Edge Journal, to make it available free to any subscriber of their FocusOn e-publications, the subscription numbers have skyrocketed.

The Competitive Edge Journal is a website that is constantly updated with new federal, state, county and municipal projects and product solicitations open for bidding. Subscribers receive two emails every week with a summary of the solicitations of interest to them based on the type of products / projects they have specified.

The free subscription offer to the Competitive Edge Journal will continue for a limited time so those interested should take advantage of this offer while there is still time. Visit www.cej-usa.com to sign up.
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SPECIAL LEGISLATIVE UPDATE ON EXTENSION OF HIGHWAY PROGRAM
Unable to reach agreement on Feb. 25 on the Senate long-term extension of the highway program, the House by voice vote passed a 30-day extension of several programs including the Highway Trust Fund at the low pro rata rate currently provided by the continuing resolution and sent it to the Senate.

Sen. Jim Bunning (R-Ken.) objected to moving the House-passed extension bill, because he contends it would add to the deficit. He wanted his amendment to cut $12 billion in unobligated stimulus funds to offset the cost of the bill. Knowing that his amendment would not pass, he continued to object to a vote on the bill. At 11:40 a.m. today, the Senate adjourned for the week without taking action on legislation to provide an extension of the programs set to expire at midnight on Feb. 28.

Accordingly, expenditure authority for the HTF will shut down at that time. Expenditure authority for administrative expenses from the HTF does not expire until 24 hours after the rest of the expenditure authority from the trust fund, so staff furloughs at FHWA, FMCSA and NHTSA would not start until the morning of March 2. Once furloughs take effect, staff will not be present to approve project funding from the general fund or new project funding under the stimulus law.

The Senate goes back into session on March 1 at 2:00 p.m., but is not expected to take any votes until after 12:15 p.m. on the afternoon of March 2 unless Bunning changes his mind. Senate rules allow him to extend the process for most of next week. The earliest a cloture motion could be filed is March 2 and it would not be ripe for a vote until March 4 or March 5.

Meanwhile, action on the Senate extension stalled in the House due to opposition of House liberals who feel the bill is not large enough; conservative Democrats who oppose the bill because it violates pay-go rules; and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Jim Oberstar (D-Minn.) who objects to the way the Senate bill treats funding from certain accounts under the SAFETEA-LU law. The House could vote to pass the Senate bill without changes to solve the issue. If changes are made, however, it must go back to the Senate for another week-long cloture process.

Oberstar said on a conference call today that he and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) had reached agreement on moving the Senate jobs bill as is next week. Oberstar received a commitment from Reid that no funds would be expended from the contested accounts until the problem of funds distribution is addressed in subsequent legislation.

The quickest way for the issue to be resolved is for the House to pass the Senate long-term extension so that work can begin on a multi-year reauthorization bill. If action on the extension is completed early next week, the impact on the aggregates industry would be negligible (more or less like a snow day to the Federal Highway Administration).

NSSGA is continues to urge the quickest resolution and passage of an extension. NSSGA will continue to keep members advised of developments.
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Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. Announces 2009 Results
Provides Preliminary Outlook for 2010

Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. (NYSE:MLM) announced in mid February results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2009, and provided a preliminary outlook for 2010. Notable items were:

For the quarter
* Net sales of $327.8 million, compared with $413.5 million for the 2008 fourth quarter
* Heritage aggregates product line volume down 24% and pricing down 1%
* Record earnings from operations and operating margin in Specialty Products
* Earnings from operations of $14.5 million, inclusive of West Group legal reserve, compared with

$60.4 million for the prior-year quarter
* Loss per diluted share of $0.07, compared with earnings per diluted share of $0.60 for the prior-year quarter; West Group legal reserve decreased 2009 earnings per diluted share by $0.18

For the year
* Net sales of $1.497 billion, compared with $1.860 billion for the prior year
* Heritage aggregates product line volume down 23% and pricing up 2%
* Earnings from operations of $187.6 million (inclusive of West Group legal reserve, a $74.0 million decrease in energy costs and a $11.9 million decrease in selling, general and administrative costs)
* Record earnings from operations and operating margin in Specialty Products
* Earnings per diluted share of $1.91, compared with $4.18 for the prior year; West Group legal reserve decreased 2009 earnings per diluted share by $0.18.
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CHERYL SUZIO AT YORK HILL TRAP ROCK QUARRY COMPANY HONORED
LEADERSHIP IN DELIVERING SAFE CONDITIONS FOR WORKERS CITED IN AWARD TO HONOR CHERYL SUZIO AT YORK HILL TRAP ROCK QUARRY COMPANY

Cheryl Suzio, vice president for safety at York Hill Trap Rock Quarry Company, Meriden, Conn., has been named NSSGA's 2009 James M. Christie Safety & Health Professional. The James M. Christie Safety and Health Professional of the Year award was created in 1987 to provide national recognition to an individual who has made superior and substantial contributions to his or her company's--and the industry's--efforts toward proactive safe operating practices.

For more than two decades, Suzio has been instrumental in leading efforts to reduce injuries and illnesses, which have played a critical role in driving down the incidence rate in the aggregates industry to a record low. Since 1995, York Hill has had zero recordable injuries among workers. In addition, in this period, the company's executive and workforce commitment, as well as strong safety and health programs, reduced the number of MSHA citations to just 3.5 citations per year.

Suzio has also played a leading role in her industry at the state and national levels. At the Connecticut Construction Industries Association, she established various safety committees and helped initiate the CCIA's program for recognizing safety excellence. Nationally, Suzio has long been an NSSGA advisor on safety and health issues, at various times chairing the Safety and Health Committee, chairing NSSGA's Division of Environment, Safety and Health, and serving on the association's task force on regulatory affairs. Additionally, she has worked as a member of the committee of the MSHA-NSSGA Alliance for education and training and worked successfully with MSHA to secure federal funding for MSHA refresher training. Suzio has worked with the entire senior leadership of the industry as a member of the NSSGA Board of Directors and Executive Committee.

"Cheryl's diligent work to boost safety for all is a great example of the aggregates industry's commitment to worker safety celebrated by the James M. Christie Award," said NSSGA President and CEO Joy Wilson. "Cheryl has made a substantial impact not only on her company and workforce, but on workers and companies in the state of Connecticut and throughout the United States."

Anne Kelhart, director of Safety and Human Resources for Martin Stone Quarries and current chair of NSSGA's Safety & Health committee said, "Cheryl's achievements stand as a clear illustration of our industry's commitment to creatively and diligently work to eliminate injuries and fatalities in support of one of NSSGA's most important guiding principles: preventing all occupational injuries and illnesses."
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Record Breaker! 2010 World of Asphalt and AGG1 Shows
The 2010 co-located AGG1 Aggregates Forum & Expo and World of Asphalt Show & Conference opened with tremendous enthusiasm and have already posted record-breaking numbers as of February 16, 2010 (second day of events):
The shows run February 15-18, 2010 at the Duke Energy Convention Center in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio.

"There is a lot of positive energy on the show floor and in the education sessions, despite a still-fragile economy. And, there have been many favorable comments about the quality of the shows to facilitate networking and connect potential buyers and sellers," noted Show Director Melissa Magestro.

"Attendees really value the opportunity for face-to-face dialog with colleagues from across North America and even internationally, and to examine the latest technologies in one place," Magestro said.

"Even with the snowy conditions we've had here, industry professionals knew this was the place they needed to be to plan for the future -- the equipment and products they'll need and the education to maximize their productivity," she added.
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Kubota Provides Haitian Earthquake Relief Donations
Kubota Corporation and Affiliates Make Global Donation toward Haitian Relief Efforts

Kubota Corporation’s affiliated companies in the United States and Canada, including Kubota Tractor Corporation (KTC); Kubota Credit Corporation (KCC); Kubota Manufacturing of America (KMA); Kubota Industrial Equipment (KIE); Kubota Engine America Corporation (KEA); and Kubota Canada, Ltd., have donated $50,000 in equipment in-kind for ongoing relief efforts in Haiti. Kubota has provided Kubota generators and other electronic and first aid supplies through the California-based Operation USA.

"Kubota employees around the world would like to express our sympathy for the victims and their families of the recent earthquake disaster in Haiti," states Dr. Satoshi Iida, President, Kubota Tractor Corporation (USA). "Kubota sincerely hopes for the eventual recovery and re-settlement of those impacted by this crisis. It is our hope that this donation will be helpful to the significant humanitarian work ongoing toward relief efforts in the aftermath of the earthquake."

In addition, Kubota Corporation of Osaka, Japan, has already made a contribution of $110,000 to the Japanese Red Cross Society for earthquake relief assistance. The combined Kubota Corporation worldwide donation also represents contributions from affiliated companies in Europe, Asia, and Australia.

Kubota Tractor Corporation, Torrance, Calif., is the U.S. marketer and distributor of Kubota-branded equipment, including a complete line of tractors up to 118 PTO hp, performance-matched implements, compact and utility-class construction equipment, consumer lawn and garden equipment, commercial turf products and utility vehicles. For product literature or dealer locations, contact Kubota Tractor Corporation at 3401 Del Amo Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503, (888) 4-KUBOTA [(888) 458-2682], Ext. 900, or visit www.kubota.com.
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Highway Projects in Jeopardy as SAFETEA-LU Expires Without Extension
Partisan bickering over jobs legislation and budget issues has brought the federal highway program to a grinding halt. The House and Senate failed to agree on a further extension of the SAFETEA-LU surface transportation law prior to its expiration on Feb. 28. Consequently, beginning March 1, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and some portions of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will cease operations until lawmakers agree on a further extension.

The impact of Congress's failure to act could be substantial. FHWA will not be able to fund any new expenditures from the Highway Trust Fund (HTF), thus prohibiting the federal government from reimbursing states for projects already committed. According to the House Transportation & Infrastructure (T&I) Committee, the impact will be a total of $768 million in highway outlays for the upcoming week, wreaking havoc on state Departments of Transportation planning. There is word that several major projects from around the country are already coming to a halt.

Of course, AED has been urging Congress for months to replace SAFETEA-LU with a new multiyear highway law that increases infrastructure investment. While lawmakers generally agree on the need invest more in infrastructure, there is no consensus about how to pay for a bigger highway program, which has led to the series of short-term SAFETEA-LU extensions.

Last week, Senator Jim Bunning (R-KY) initiated a filibuster in opposition to a bill containing a 30-day extension of unemployment benefits, the highway program, and other "must pass" tax items. Bunning wants the legislation offset by cuts elsewhere in the budget or the use of unobligated stimulus funds.

Assuming Bunning does not relent, he could personally delay consideration of the extenders legislation for at least a week before the Senate jumps through all the complex procedural hurdles required to end a filibuster. However, the jobs bill approved by the Senate last week could provide another way to get highway money flowing to the states again.

The legislation approved by the Senate on Feb. 24 would extend federal surface transportation programs through the end of calendar year 2010 at this current investment levels and provide an additional $19.8 billion so the Highway Trust Fund can meet its obligations until the end of 2010. The Senate jobs bill also restores lost contract (spending) authority from the $8.7 billion rescission SAFETEA-LU required on Sept. 30, 2009. And as a bonus, the package also contains an extension of higher Sec. 179 expensing levels, an AED priority.

Unfortunately, several powerful factions within the House Democratic Caucus have objected to the Senate bill. One group, led by House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee Chairman James Oberstar (D-MN), oppose the manner that SAFETEA-LU (and thus, any extension of SAFETEA-LU) treats the formula used to distribute certain program funding to the states. However, after negotiations with Democratic leaders in the House and Senate, Oberstar agreed to drop his protest in exchange for a commitment that future legislation will fix the situation.

Even with Oberstar and his allies appeased, other members of the House Democratic Caucus have concerns with the Senate’s bill. The more liberal members of the caucus don't think it spends enough to boost the economy, preferring instead a $154 billion jobs bill the House approved at the end of last year. Members of the centrist Blue Dog Democrat Coalition are wary of waiving the House budget rules requiring new spending to be offset (known as "Pay-Go"). And given the partisan atmosphere on the Hill, few House Republicans are expected to support any new jobs legislation.

With the construction industry mired in a depression and state budgets under enormous pressure, the situation on the Hill is making a bad situation worse. AED and its allies are urging lawmakers to stop their squabbling and get the industry back to work.
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VULCAN'S DOLCITO QUARRY RECEIVES INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION’S HIGHEST AWARD
Birmingham, Ala. - Vulcan Materials Company (NYSE: VMC) today announced that its Dolcito Quarry in Tarrant, Alabama, is the only facility nationwide to receive a Three- Star Award, the highest possible recognition in the National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association’s (NSSGA) Stars of Excellence Awards program.

The Stars of Excellence program began in 2001 as a way to recognize facilities that received multiple, highest-level safety, community relations and environmental awards from NSSGA over a five year period. Dolcito's three stars acknowledge receipt of two community relations excellence awards and an environmental excellence award.

The Dolcito Quarry is part of Vulcan’s Southern & Gulf Coast Division, which has its headquarters in Birmingham.

Southern and Gulf Coast Division President, Mike Clarke, said, "The employees of the Dolcito Quarry exemplify the commitment we have to being a valued part of our neighboring communities. I’m very proud of these employees and the national recognition they received for their efforts."

Vulcan Materials Company, a member of the S&P 500 index, is the nation's foremost producer of construction aggregates and a major producer of other construction materials.
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Metso to buy back 300,000 own shares for its Share Ownership Plan
The Board of Directors of Metso Corporation has decided, in accordance with the authorization granted by the Annual General Meeting on March, 31 2009, to repurchase a maximum number of 300,000 Company's own shares, which corresponds to about 0.2 percent of all the outstanding shares of Metso.

The shares shall be repurchased as part of the Company's incentive program i.e. Metso Share Ownership Plans to be used as potential reward payments in accordance with the Plan criteria.

Own shares will be purchased with the Company's distributable funds and thus the repurchases will reduce the Company's distributable non-restricted equity. Shares will be purchased at market price in public trading on the NASDAQ OMX in Helsinki Exchange.

The repurchase of own shares started on February 16, 2010 at the earliest and it will end on March 26, 2010 at the latest.

At the moment, Metso Corporation holds a total of 409,617 own shares.

Metso is a global supplier of sustainable technology and services for mining, construction, power generation, automation, recycling and the pulp and paper industries. We have about 27,000 employees in more than 50 countries. www.metso.com.
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Reaching High for the Cure
Volvo Rents Launches Franchise Referral Program Supporting Breast Cancer Research

For referred candidates who become franchisees, Volvo Rents offers $15,000 referral fee and $5,000 donation to support the Chattanooga Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®

Volvo Rents is joining the fight against breast cancer to "reach high" for a cure. Continuing its search for financially-stable and experienced business operators in the United States, Volvo Rents announces the launch of its franchise referral program, offering a $15,000 fee to the referrers of candidates who become Volvo Rents franchisees and open a store.

For each referred candidate who becomes a Volvo Rents franchisee and opens a store in the United States (excluding Hawaii, Illinois, New York, Virginia and Washington), Volvo Rents will donate $5,000 to support the Chattanooga Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® through December 31, 2011.

The donation component of the franchise referral program does not apply to franchise candidates initially introduced to Volvo Rents through the Volvo Rents franchise referral program if the referrer is a resident of Alabama, Maine, Massachusetts or South Carolina.

The announcement comes as Volvo Rents targets markets throughout North America for expansion in 2010 and 2011.

"Every time a referral is made for a candidate who becomes a Volvo Rents franchisee and opens its location in the United States, $5,000 will be donated to the Chattanooga Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® to support the fight against this deadly disease. Susan G. Komen for the Cure® is dedicated to saving lives, empowering people, ensuring quality care for all and energizing science to find the cures. Every year, more than 180,000 women and men develop breast cancer," said Ed Benizzi, Director of Sales, North America for Volvo Rents. For more information, call 866-387-3687.

Financial stability and solid business experience are prerequisites. Experience in construction-related or equipment rental industries, though helpful, is not required. Typically, candidates have a net worth of $2 million or more with at least $750,000 of liquid assets. Candidates must be serious about franchise ownership and willing to work within the Volvo Rents franchise program.

"As the economy recovers, the construction equipment rental industry is projected to be one of the fastest growing industries in North America, as more people are choosing to rent rather than commit to capital expenditures," said Benizzi. "Our strong brand recognition, demand for construction equipment rental, and unparalleled incentive and finance offerings allow us to look to the future with great enthusiasm. Volvo Rents distinguishes itself as 'The Friendliest Rental Store in Town' by creating an environment of trust, integrity and value. Being an independent Volvo Rents franchisee continues to be a rewarding experience for our owners."

Volvo Rents' affiliate, Volvo Financial Services (VFS), lends to qualified franchisees a comprehensive financial package including fleet financing, working capital, delivery vehicle financing and leasehold improvement financing. The amount of financing for qualified franchisees has no limit, but on average is $5 million per store. In addition, VFS continues to provide funding to existing franchisees interested in expanding their businesses. Since 2002, VFS has provided over $400 million in financing to the Volvo Rents franchise owners.

For more information, call our business development team at 1-866-387-3687, email askrents@volvo.com to learn about participating in the Volvo Rents Franchise Referral Program.
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Komatsu America Celebrates Milestone Achievement
Komatsu America Corp. commemorated the production of the 930th unit of its Ultra Class 930E Electric Drive Truck. The celebration took place at its Peoria Manufacturing Operation and included an address from Vice President and General Manager Rod Schrader in addition to a photo shoot for employees.

Introduced in 1996, the 930E is the best selling ultra class mining truck in the world. Currently, there are fleets of 930s located in North America, South America, Africa, Asia and Australia.

Komatsu designs and builds the 930E electric drive truck in Peoria where union craftsmen assemble and test the final product before shipping it around the world. The factory has a long history of innovation, and built its first electric drive mining truck in 1967. Those early trucks were limited to 120-ton capacity and would be dwarfed by today’s modern trucks that are equipped with state-of-the-art satellite diagnostic systems for remote monitoring.

"The 930E represents Komatsu's genuine passion to see our customers succeed," said Don Lindell, product manager for Mining Trucks. "We continue refining the features of the truck to lower operating cost per ton based on data from real world performance."

Collahuasi, a 14-year customer of Komatsu with over 40 trucks at one site, will be receiving unit number 930 when it is shipped from the Komatsu factory in Peoria.

Located in the mountains of northern Chile, Collahuasi is one of the largest copper resources in the world; boasting upwards of five billion tons.

With 30 percent of all 930s produced, Chile has the largest concentration of Komatsu 930Es on the planet.

The 930E is used as a part of Komatsu's Autonomous Haulage System that allows the trucks to operate without drivers. Because of its technology and reliability, the 930E is often used for remote and difficult applications.

The 930E has a payload capacity of 320 tons (290 metric tons). Depending on the model, it is available with 2,700 or 3,500 horsepower diesel engine connected to an AC electric drive system. The total weight carried by the six 12' high tires is 1,106,670 lbs (501,977.068 kgs).
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RAISE BORING EQUIPMENT
Sandvik tailor-makes reamers to bore 24 intake shafts for 10.5 km Hong Kong West Drainage Tunnel

For years people living and working in the north-west of Hong Kong Island have had to put up with serious flooding caused by surface water run-off during tropical downpours. To solve the problem, a 10 500 meter drainage tunnel with 35 urban intake shafts is being bored to catch the run-off water and port it into the sea. Most of the intake shafts will be bored using the raise-boring method, for which Sandvik Mining and Construction has been chosen to supply the all-important rock tools.

The northwest of Hong Kong Island together with Kowloon on the other side of Victoria Harbour is one of the most densely populated and economically powerful regions of the world. In terms of infrastructure, it is highly advanced yet dogged by the consequences of rapid growth and intensive urbanization in limited space. Dominated by glittering skyscrapers nestled between mountain slopes and the coastline, it has a seasonal problem with uptown water run-off, which frequently overwhelms the downtown areas. The new west drainage tunnel, being bored snake-like beneath the so-called Mid-Levels district above and behind the city center, will alleviate the problem. Bored by two tunnel boring machines (TBMs) 6.25 and 7.25 meters in diameter respectively, the new tunnel will catch the run-off water via no less than 35 intake shafts, which will be connected to the drainage tunnel by a series of Ø2.3 m adits. The adits – all 7800 meters of them -- will be excavated by drill-and-blast, working from the pre-bored main tunnel to the underground coordinates of the planned intake shafts.

Versatile CRH 8E reamer for different shaft diameters
The raise-bored shafts, 2.4 or 3.1 meters in diameter, will range from 50 to 180 meters in depth. Boring will start in April 2010 and the rock is expected to be hard to very hard, as well as abrasive. The method will be traditional -- pilot down to the adits, ream up to the surface. The contractor, Australian Raise Drilling, will start each shaft with a Ø13¾-inch pilot-hole drilled using Sandvik pilot bits and Ø11¼-inch drill pipes to ensure maximal hole-straightness, which is critical. Both diameters of shafts will then be reamed out using the same basic reaming head, the new Sandvik CRH 8E, which is expandable between Ø2441 mm and Ø3353 mm. Just four such units are expected to bore all 24 shafts, subject to periodic dressings (cutter changes), and Sandvik says they probably will go on to bore more shafts in other projects thereafter. Customized to facilitate transportation through the tunnel and adits, the new CRH 8E reamers will perpetuate the phenomenally successful Sandvik design philosophy: a flat cutting profile, robust segmentation, easy assembly, strong bolted unions, fewer and more effectively placed cutters, standard components and no need for special tools.

Best option for quick mobilization and high ROP
What makes the shaft boring operations in the HKWDT project complicated is their urban location. Compared with the tunneling operations, which have only two urban portals, the intake shafts will have no less than 35 portals. Each will require painstaking preparation, often including traffic diversion. Because the shafts are relatively short, most of the time will be spent setting up, dismantling and relocating equipment. The versatile Sandvik CRH 8E reaming head, which is remarkably easy to assemble and disassemble, will help to reduce this essential but unproductive time. Moreover, the high rate of penetration (ROP) and reliability for which Sandvik reamers are renowned will ensure that boring time is utilized maximally. Built to respond favorably to individual cutter loadings of up to 27 tonnes, the Sandvik CRH 8E allows very high thrust to be used and is expected to make short work of the hard, abrasive granites and volcanic tuffs of Hong Kong Island, some of which have compressive strengths greater than 250 MPa. Like all Sandvik reamers, it is also designed to induce smooth rotation, which reduces strain on the entire system and even saves energy.
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United Rentals Launches Online Portal for Used Equipment Sales
United Rentals, Inc. announced the launch of a used equipment portal that offers thousands of quality items for sale. The construction and industrial listings on www.unitedrentals.com/usedsales represent more than 40 categories of equipment.

All items on the new portal are value-priced, with deeper discounts located in a Special Values section. Listings are refreshed in real-time, and are searchable by category, keyword, model year, manufacturer and location. Shoppers can download images, specs, prices and contact information by converting a search into a product sheet with one click.

As an incentive to try the new site, United Rentals is offering six months of free United Guard warranty coverage with every online equipment purchase through March 31, 2010. United Guard provides free equipment inspections and service, covering the cost of labor and parts for most repairs.

The portal at www.unitedrentals.com/usedsales is open to buyers worldwide, with delivery and financing available in the U.S. and Canada.
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FLSmidth awarded contracts for Vale Inco project in Canada
FLSmidth has been awarded contracts from Vale Inco for the supply of comminution and sedimentation equipment for the processing plant project in Long Harbour, Newfoundland, Canada.

The scope of supply includes two FLSmidth ball mills (one concentrate, and one limestone grinding system), and thirteen Eimco thickeners and clarifiers which will be used as part of the hydrometallurgical flowsheet for recovering Nickel, Copper and Cobalt from deposits mined at Vale Inco Voisey's Bay mine in Labrador, Canada.

FLSmidth's Salt Lake City and Bethlehem offices in the US are working closely with the engineering and construction company Fluor in Canada, to provide the engineering, design and supply of all key components as well as pre-assembly for shipment to site, erection supervision and commissioning.

Please address any questions regarding this announcement to Group Chief Executive Officer Jørgen Huno Rasmussen, FLSmidth & Co. A/S at +45 36 18 18 00.

This project highlights FLSmidth's extensive experience in providing very large, innovative, pre-assembled process technology that will reduce construction time and installation costs.
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Nation's Largest Highway Recovery Project
Mendez Commemorates One-Year Anniversary of ARRA at Celebration for new DFW Connector near Dallas

WASHINGTON, DC - On the first anniversary of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez is breaking ground on the new DFW Connector near Dallas, which is the largest investment of Recovery Act dollars in a highway project to date. Obama Administration officials are holding events across the country today to highlight how the Recovery Act is putting people back to work and making a positive impact on thousands of communities.

"Breaking ground on the largest highway investment on the first anniversary of the Recovery Act is a great way to mark this important milestone" said U.S Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood. "The Recovery Act is working every day to lay a new foundation for economic growth and has already funded 12,500 new transportation projects nationwide ranging from highway construction to airport improvement projects."

"This project, like so many others in communities across the country, will put people to work as well as help them get where they're going more safely and efficiently," Mendez said. "The success of the Recovery Act is clear, as it works to lay a new foundation for economic growth."

The $1.02 billion project, of which $250 million is funded by ARRA, will significantly reduce congestion for drivers in Tarrant County, and is beginning ahead of schedule thanks to Recovery Act dollars. It runs 8.4 miles on the SH 114/121 corridor through the communities of Grapevine and Southlake, part of the Dallas/Fort Worth metro area. Improvements include 12 to 14 new main lanes and four toll-managed lanes, doubling existing highway capacity.

Traffic volume along SH 114 is expected to grow from today's 189,000 vehicles to 359,000 by 2030. The Connector will build the capacity needed to handle this projected growth. Mendez added that Recovery Act funds are helping to modernize the country's transportation sector and make it more competitive.

Of the $26.6 billion in ARRA funds available nationwide, Texas' share is $2.25 billion. To date, the state has obligated $2.08 billion toward 429 projects, with 282 underway.

Also marking the ARRA anniversary, Secretary LaHood announced $1.5 billion in TIGER grants - including two in and near Dallas - that focus on innovative, multi-modal projects.

The Downtown Dallas Streetcar, sponsored by the North Central Texas Council of Governments, will originate in downtown Dallas and run through the largest job center in the North Texas area. The $23 million grant will increase transportation options for the 1.2 million people living in Dallas.

In Irving and Grand Prairie, a project sponsored by the North Texas Tollway Authority will complete the western portion of a second beltway around Dallas. The $20 million grant supports a direct loan under the USDOT's Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) program for up to one-third of the project's $1.3 billion cost and would use electronic toll collection to increase the capacity of this road and provide reliable and predictable levels of service.
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CASE ANNOUNCES ITS TECHNOLOGY CHOICES
FOR MEETING TIER 4 EMISSIONS STANDARDS

RACINE, Wis. (February 25, 2010) -- Case Construction Equipment today announced that it is ready to meet the next two phases of emissions requirements. Tier 4 interim standards begin in 2011, and Tier 4 final standards come into effect beginning in 2014.

Case is using two distinct technologies, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (CEGR) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) to address Tier 4 interim standards across its product line, which includes more than 90 equipment models, ranging from 11.3 kW (15.15 hp) to 397 kW (532 horsepower).

The challenge in trying to meet Tier 4 standards--interim and final--is that the CEGR technology that reduces nitrogen oxides (NOx) increases particulate matter (PM) levels, while the SCR technology that reduces PM levels increases NOx levels. In order to meet the ultimate goal of near-zero emissions, an after-treatment exhaust filter system must be part of a CEGR solution, and a diesel exhaust fluid additive must be part of an SCR solution.

Case sees advantages to both technologies depending on engine size and load and also application demands, and it is taking advantage of the tremendous resources available to it as part of the Fiat Group, as well as the strengths of its worldwide strategic partners and suppliers.

Case has an excellent track record of meeting customer needs for increased productivity, improved fuel efficiency, increased uptime, best-in-class serviceability and operator comfort. And these improvements have been made with an eye toward the environment.

When Case machines meet Tier 4 final standards, they will have achieved a 90-percent reduction in particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, compared to Tier 3.

Benefits of SCR and CEGR

SCR is a cool-running, quiet system that’s separate from the main engine function and does not compromise horsepower or torque. It does not interfere with engine performance and, in fact, it actually improves performance. The SCR after-treatment system requires the addition of a diesel exhaust fluid. CEGR technology provides a user-friendly solution that requires no change in the operation of the machines. It is a system that relies on an exhaust filter system to remove particulate matter from the exhaust. This technology provides excellent durability and low maintenance costs.

Case developed its SCR and CEGR technologies to ensure that customers continue to receive the productivity they expect from their Case equipment while complying with Tier 4 interim and eventually Tier 4 final standards.
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Motor Grader Operator Training Simulator
John Deere Introduces State-of-the-Art Motor Grader Operator Training Simulator

After revolutionizing the motor grader itself by offering operators an unprecedented choice of controls with its G-Series, John Deere Construction & Forestry is once again responding to customer needs with a state-of-the-art Motor Grader Operator Training Simulator.

"We're responding to an industry shortage of skilled operators with an excellent tool for attracting and training new operators to run one of the most complex machines on a jobsite," said Michael Hoeg, senior instructional designer and developer, John Deere Training Center.

"Overall, Deere's operator training simulators are a cost-effective, safe and efficient way to train new operators in a risk-free environment."

The new motor grader simulator provides highly detailed and realistic lessons teaching proper technique, machine controls and safe operation, all in a virtual jobsite -- without fuel or operating costs, risks to equipment or personnel, downtime, or emissions.

Real-World Situations and Controls

Motor grader simulator lessons feature real-world situations, complete with jobsite hazards, potential safety violations, hand signals, budget-based scoring and replica machine controls.

The simulator's controls include a steering wheel, foot pedals and the electronic armrest-mounted fingertip controls from the new G-Series grader. The fingertip controls are arranged in the industry-standard pattern, so knowledge gained will transfer to mechanical-style controls.

"The new grader simulator also has Deere's exclusive simulator 'head tracking' technology, which means wherever the simulator operator looks, the camera in the simulator looks," Hoeg said. "This is very exciting and useful on a grader, where you are constantly looking at either side of the blade."

Nine Detailed Lessons

Because motor graders are one of the most challenging machines to master, Deere has designed nine key lessons for the simulator:

* Controls familiarization
* Moldboard setup
* Maneuvering
* Leveling a parking lot
* Digging a V-ditch
* Road building
* Blue topping
* Cul-de-sacs
* Loading onto a lowboy

After completing each lesson, operators get immediate feedback based on their performance, and are scored against a budget (operator costs, owning and operating costs) and other skilled operators. This helps identify their strengths, weaknesses and impact on a "bottom line". Learners can see their contribution to production statistics in real time, as well as realize their contribution to a virtual budget, or their deduction from jobsite funds, based on performance. The real-time feedback also allows operators to correct mistakes and gain awareness of potential hazards before they are encountered.

"The simulator also has benefits beyond standard operator training," Hoeg added. "It can be used to attract crowds at job fairs and events, for rainy day competitions, jobsite planning, safety training and potential employee screening -- and do it all without fuel burn or emissions."



The new Motor Grader Operating Training Simulator joins Deere's Excavator Operating Training Simulator and 4WD Loader Operator Training Simulator in the training lineup. Simulators are available for purchase through local John Deere dealers or information provided online at www.JohnDeere.com/simulators.

They are also part of wider curriculums designed by the John Deere Training Center in Davenport, Iowa. The Training Center integrates Web-based learning, PC-based virtual simulation technology and proven instructional design strategies to create total operator training solutions.
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Lincoln Electric Official Sponsor of The Professional Bull Riders Inc.
Lincoln Electric is proud to announce its new partnership with The Professional Bull Riders, Inc. (PBR) in which Lincoln becomes one of the sports newest official sponsors.

"We are proud to announce our partnership with the PBR and the exciting sport of bull riding," said Mickey Holmes, Sports Marketing Manager for Lincoln Electric. "The sport will provide a dynamic marketing platform to build our brand as well as opportunities to entertain and build relationships with our valued customers. It is a natural fit when the toughest welders in the world are aligned with the toughest sport on earth."

PBR has over 1,200 bull riders competing in more than 300 PBR sanctioned competitions in the United States, Australia, Brazil, Canada, and Mexico. Over 100 million viewers tune in each year to the PBR on network and cable television in the United States, and ratings are steadily on the rise. PBR has seen strong growth in live attendance as well. Today the PBR attracts over 1.5 million live event attendees each year with its multi-tiered event structure.

As part of the multi-year partnership, Lincoln Electric, the world leader in welding products, will have an increased presence with the PBR, at all Built Ford Tough Series events, and PBR World Finals in Las Vegas. This includes exclusive signage and even a special Lincoln Electric chute seat section.

"Lincoln products are second to none and we could not be more pleased to partner with such a great brand," commented PBR Chief Marketing & Sales Officer, Kevin Camper. "We are excited to have them as a partner and look forward to an exciting future with them!"

About the Professional Bull Riders, Inc. (PBR):
Headquartered in Pueblo, Colo., the PBR is the premiere bull riding organization in the world, boasting contestants from the United States, Mexico, Australia, Brazil, and Canada. One of the fastest growing sports in the country, PBR’s events air weekly on VERSUS, NBC, CBS, and FOX. For more information on the Professional Bull Riders, please visit www.pbr.com or contact Sara Broun at 719.242.2800 or sbroun@pbrnow.com.
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Kobe Steel starts up Japan's largest compressor test facility
Aims to make inroads in the large-capacity centrifugal compressor market

Kobe Steel, Ltd. announces that its new large-capacity compressor test facility has begun operations at the company's Takasago Works in Hyogo Prefecture in western Japan.

Test facilities are essential to confirm the mechanical stability and design performance of compressors, a major product of Kobe Steel's Machinery segment.

The new 4-billion-yen (US$44 million) facility, the biggest in Japan, will be able to test large-capacity process gas compressors with variable-speed motors rated up to 20,000 kilowatts. The new facility doubles Kobe Steel's testing capacity. Construction began in April 2008.

The start-up of the test facility enables Kobe Steel to develop the global market including the United States, Europe, China and the Middle East. Kobe Steel is making a full entry into the integrally geared centrifugal compressor market, where there are many promising projects. Kobe Steel estimates that it has a 10% share of the world market, which it aims to hike to 20% by fiscal 2012. It also plans to increase its market share of large-capacity screw and reciprocating compressors.

Kobe Steel forecasts that its compressor business will post record sales of 74 billion yen in fiscal 2009, ending in March 2010. The company anticipates sales will steadily grow in fiscal 2010. Focusing on standard compressors for energy savings and environmentally friendly applications; a broader menu for the process-gas and large-capacity compressor fields; and a strengthening of its production capabilities; Kobe Steel forecasts that its compressor sales may grow to 100 billion yen in the next four to five years.

In 1915, Kobe Steel began production of Japan's first reciprocating compressor. Over the years, the company added screw and centrifugal compressors, as well as refrigeration compressors and heat pumps. Kobe Steel currently makes a wide variety of compressors with motor ratings ranging from 1.5 kilowatts to several tens of thousands of kilowatts. Kobe Steel is Japan's biggest comprehensive manufacturer of compressors. Even worldwide there are only a few companies like Kobe Steel.

Screw, centrifugal and reciprocating compressors in particular are used in process-gas applications for manufacturing. For all three types of compressors, users give top marks to Kobe Steel. Kobe Steel's compressors are used in a wide variety of applications. Some examples are process gas for petrochemical and oil refining plants; associated gas for oil and gas drilling; natural gas and fuel gas for power generation; and blast furnace byproduct gas at steel plants. In addition, for energy savings at plants and new applications for CO2 reduction systems, Kobe Steel's compressors offer some of the world's top levels of high performance, high flow rate, and high pressure.
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Eriez' 5-Star Service™


Eriez' 5-Star Service™ Offers Extensive Parts Lists for Core Products, Including Metal Detectors, Vibratory Feeders and More

Eriez' 5-Star Service™ now offers online users the ability to quickly and easily download parts lists for core Eriez products. From the 5-Star Service section of Eriez' Web site, users can review parts lists in PDF format and then request a parts quote via e-mail or phone.

Parts lists are available for download from a variety of Eriez equipment categories, including (but not limited to) Coolant Cleaners, Metal Detectors, SafeHold® Lift Magnets, Model A-C Feeders, High Deflection and High Speed Feeders, Mechanical Feeders and Vibrators.

Each equipment category has individual parts lists, some with detailed schematic of the equipment for easier sourcing and identification. For more information on Eriez 5-Star Service and to download parts lists, visit http://service.eriez.com

Located in Lake City, Pennsylvania, Eriez' 5-Star Service Center team repairs equipment at its facility or at customers' sites. Technicians are also available for routine maintenance checks.

Besides stocking thousands of parts, Eriez 5-Star Service offers Instruction and Operation Manuals (IOMs) and step-by-step troubleshooting procedures. The Eriez 5-Star Service group stores several years' worth of equipment records to help expedite servicing.

To contact Eriez 5-Star Service, call the 24/7 service hotline at 1-888-999-ERIEZ or send e-mail to service@eriez.com
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Hirschmann offers regional training courses
Hirschmann Automation and Control, Inc. (PAT), a leading supplier of crane operator aids, including load moment indicators (LMI), has released their 2010 training schedule.

Hirschmann's training courses feature classroom training along with actual hands-on experience using system simulators. The courses include system theory, sensor calibration, wiring, and hands-on trouble shooting. The courses are structured to meet the requirements of mechanics and operators regardless of their level of experience.

These courses are taught by Hirschmann industry experts, who understand the theory and application of each system. Each instructor brings experience gained through troubleshooting PAT/Hirschmann systems in the field and offer proven techniques to quickly and effectively troubleshoot system components.

Hirschmann's 2010 training schedule will offer two different courses, focusing on specific market requirements. The first is a three day course on the iVISOR MK4E2, iVISOR mentor EI65, and iVISOR maestro. These systems are primarily marketed through Hirschmann’s aftermarket sales channels. The second will be a two day course on the iVISOR mentor QVGA and the iFLEX2, which are typically installed on new cranes. Two dates have been scheduled for each of the courses offered in 2010. Hirschmann will also structure courses for companies at their facilities to meet specific requirements.

The following is Hirschmann's 2010 training schedule:

Course Location Dates
iVISOR MK4E2 / iVISOR maestro / iVISOR mentor EI65 Chambersburg, PA March 23 - 25
iVISOR mentor QVGA / iFLEX 2 Chambersburg, PA June 29 - 30
iVISOR MK4E2 / iVISOR maestro / iVISOR mentor EI65 Chambersburg, PA September 28 - 30
iVISOR mentor QVGA / iFLEX 2 Chambersburg, PA December 7 - 8


For more information on our training program please visit our website at www.hirschmann-usa.com/ecstraining, call 717-217-2223 or email us at hirschmann.ecs-training@belden.com.
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Rockmore Announces the ROK 875
The Newest Addition to the High-Performance ROK Series DTH Product Line

Rockmore International, a global manufacturer of rock drilling tools, has just announced the latest addition to their ROK Series DTH Hammer product line -- the ROK 875. This new patented 203mm (8 in) diameter class hammer will be officially released at Bauma 2010 in Munich, Germany, on April 19.

Designed to increase drilling efficiency in mining, blast hole, construction, and quarry applications, the ROK 875 features an innovative new design which reduces the number of hammer components. The integrated top sub, for instance, combines multiple internal parts into one component. That reduces the amount of component wear points, reduces cost, and simplifies service.



The patented, streamlined design also takes full advantage of Rockmore's unique SonicFlow technology, which optimizes airflow by simplifying the air path. "Our R & D staff found that every time the airflow changes direction, energy is lost through turbulence," noted Pejman Eghdami, Executive Vice President of Rockmore International. "With fewer obstructions, more energy is delivered to the piston while minimizing back-flow interference. We've also added smooth radius ports in the airflow chambers, which minimize energy losses even further. That means faster penetration rates and greater overall efficiency."

As with all Rockmore products, the ROK 875 has been built to withstand the toughest rock drilling conditions. The solid piston design is made from an advanced material that is case hardened, combining high strength with supreme wear resistance. The high frequency, reciprocating piston is designed to strike the bit with maximum force. The hammer also features a heavy duty wear sleeve and back reaming buttons for increased drill life.

The ROK 875 is a 203mm (8 in) diameter class hammer which accepts industry standard drill bits with 16 spline Ingersoll Rand QL8 / QL80 shanks. Recommended bit sizes range from 215 to 254mm (8.5 to 10.0 in). This new hammer is rated for use with large compressors and air packages, 24.1 Bar (350 PSI) at 39.7 m3/min (1440 SCFM).

Rockmore International is a global manufacturer of rock-drilling tools, serving the mining, construction, and water-well sectors for more than 60 years.
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KOBELCO ANNOUNCES STRATEGY FOR TIER 4 INTERIM REQUIREMENTS
Kobelco Construction Machinery America announced its strategy to meet the Environmental Protection Agency’s Tier 4 interim emissions requirements that begin in 2011. Introduced in two phases, Tier 4 regulations represent the biggest reduction in heavy equipment emissions to date. Tier 4 final emissions requirements, which take effect in 2014, will reduce particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 90 percent, compared to Tier 3 requirements.

To address Tier 4 requirements across the full line of Kobelco excavators, the company will rely on two technologies: selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (CEGR). Kobelco developed its SCR and CEGR technologies to ensure that its customers continue to receive the performance, fuel efficiency and reliability they expect from their Kobelco excavators, while delivering substantially reduced emissions required by Tier 4 regulations. The goal is to produce excavators that comply with the new requirements, while continuing to meet customers’ needs for productivity, fuel efficiency and reliability.

The introduction of SCR and CEGR technologies on its excavators in 2011 gives Kobelco significant competitive advantage in terms of the research and development needed to meet Tier 4 final emissions requirements beginning in 2014. The investment in R&D will enable us to focus on developing the next generation of productive, fuel efficient and reliable excavators for our customers.

SCR technology
SCR is a cool-running system that is separate from the main engine function. This technology enhances engine performance without compromising horsepower or torque. The SCR after-treatment system transforms the NOx produced during the combustion process into nitrogen and water, which occur naturally in the atmosphere, through a chemical reaction with a Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). SCR is extremely fuel efficient because it allows the engine to generate maximum power and optimizes the combustion process.

CEGR technology
CEGR provides a user-friendly solution without any change in the operation of the machines. This solution relies on an exhaust filter system to remove PM from the exhaust. By lowering the combustion temperature with a partial exhaust gas recirculation system, CEGR also reduces the production of NOx inside the engine.

CEGR provides performance with exceptional durability and low maintenance costs.
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