Digwright Pty Ltd had been using Topcon 3D-MC² systems from Aptella on its dozers since 2009 and had always found the 3D-MC² systems to be more responsive and smoother than other systems on the market, so when the opportunity to implement the Topcon 3D-MC^MAX mastless machine control system arose Digwright jumped at it.

“When the opportunity came for us to install a [3D-MC^MAX] mastless system on one of our new CAT D6T VPAT machines we were keen to give it go,” said Andrew Wright, Director and Owner of Digwright. “The rate of speed the machine was able to trim at in higher gears is impressive.”

Why did Digwright choose the Topcon 3D-MC^MAX machine control system for dozer?

Mr Wright found that the Topcon 3D-MC^MAX machine control system from Aptella took Digwright’s dozer GPS machine control to next level of performance.

“This system saves our business time, fuel and money through making our dozer more efficient in bulking and trimming to grade applications,” said Mr Wright.

“The system works well in all types of materials especially when densities and compacted material change frequently. It reduces the blade ride on harder surfaces and seamlessly reacts to softer material, where the blade would normally bite in, the Topcon 3D-MC^MAX from Aptella will correct the blade lighting fast to leave a smooth level finish.”

Another benefit that Mr Wright has noted since implementing the 3D-MC^MAX grade control for dozer is improved safety due the system being mastless.

“Removing the mast pole from the blade has also improved safety through better visibility and no need for the operator to stand on the blade to remove the GPS antennas at the start and end of a shift,” said Mr Wright.

The importance of service and support during purchasing and implementation

Product support is an important part of Mr Wright’s decision-making process when researching new technology and equipment to implement: Minimising the downtime of Digwright’s machines is critical.

“If it’s not working, it’s not making money,” said Mr Wright.

“In the past 10 years of dealing with Aptella, we have found them to be proactive, helpful and responsive to a fix, repair or to come with a solution that will keep us moving.”

The team at Digwright also implemented Aptella’ Tokara Link, an Australian-designed telematics solution created specifically to improve efficiency and productivity for earthworks and civil construction projects.

Using a modem installed in the machine, Tokara Link connects your machines to the office, provides access to Aptella’ technical support and links you to any GPS network required for the job.

“Our 3D-MC^MAX GPS for dozer linked with a T-MESH and Tokara Support allows Aptella to better support our machine with remote access by their support team to fix any issues or upload files for hundreds of kilometres away. Meaning no need to wait for a technician to come to site in most cases,” said Mr Wright.

”Overall, we are extremely happy with the 3D-MC^MAX and the install of the system by Aptella. It looks just like a factory integrated system and not a tacky bolted on after market system.”

“If you are looking to get more efficiency out of your dozer and save time and money on your next project, I can thoroughly recommend a Topcon 3D-MC^MAX grade control system,” added Mr Wright.

About Digwright Pty Ltd

Digwright Pty Ltd began in 2004 as family-owned earthmoving business operating in South East QLD and Northern NSW. Digwright prides itself on its experienced staff and operators along with late model equipment and the latest technology to go with it. Digwright started with an excavator and a ute and has grown to have owned and operated over 70 items of heavy plant in the last 14 years, in both plant hire and contract earthworks.

Andrew Wright, Director and Owner of Digwright Pty Ltd, covers many areas from daily operations to major purchasing decisions.