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Caterpillar TA2-level inspection ?

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What is a CAT TA-2 inspection ?

There are different types of inspections for used Caterpillar machines. There is the TA1-level for a standard inspection and the TA2-level for inspections with more in-depth investigations.

10 minutes video about TA1 and TA2 inspection level

In line with the needs of our customers, we generally offer inspections at the TA1+ level. Can you imagine what that means? It is a visual inspection that includes a performance test and a functional test. Engines, gearboxes and torques are tested by running the machine. Tyres or Undercarriage are measured and estimated for remaining life. A detailed inspection checklist is prepared and photo documentation is taken. The so-called Product Status Report PSR is downloaded from the ECMs. And we look out for weak points on the equipment. If you have questions afterwards, we are there for you and answer them quickly.

Is a CAT TA-1 inspection sufficient?

For larger machines, a TA1 inspection is often not sufficient. Machines have a service life that far exceeds that of a standard earthmover. For these machines we offer an extended inspection service similar to TA2 on request. Our engineers do filter cutting, oil sampling, opening the final drives and take cycle times. We know the required specifications for CAT-equipment. For midsize and smaller machinery a TA-1 Plus is the best solution.

By the way, the level of a CAT-TA inspection applies as well for all other brands such as Liebherr, Komatsu, Hitachi or Volvo CE. If you are looking for used heavy machinery try a search here.

Do you have any experiences with Caterpillar TA2-level inspections? Let us know in the comments below.

CAT 994 wheel loader TA1 or TA2 inspection
CAT 994 wheel loader inspection done by Mevas

What operational testing should a detailed inspection for a used heavy machine include?

A detailed inspection for a used heavy machine should include various operational tests to assess the machine’s performance, safety, and overall condition. These tests help identify any potential issues, defects, or areas that require maintenance or repair. Here are some key operational tests that should be part of the inspection:

  1. Engine Performance Test:
  • Start the machine and observe the engine’s startup, idle, and shutdown procedures.
  • Check for abnormal noises, vibrations, or smoke emissions.
  • Test engine throttle response and acceleration.
  • Evaluate the machine’s ability to maintain a consistent RPM (revolutions per minute) under different loads.
  1. Hydraulic System Test:
  • Test the hydraulic functions, such as lifting, lowering, and tilting (for equipment like excavators and loaders).
  • Check for hydraulic leaks or abnormal fluid levels.
  • Assess the responsiveness and smoothness of hydraulic controls.
  1. Transmission and Drive System Test:
  • Test the forward and reverse gears (if applicable).
  • Evaluate the functionality of the transmission, including smooth shifting and proper engagement.
  • Inspect the performance of the differential and drive axles.
  1. Brake and Steering System Test:
  • Check the braking system for responsiveness and effectiveness.
  • Test the parking brake and ensure it holds the machine securely.
  • Assess the steering system for smooth operation and proper alignment.
  1. Electrical System Test:
  • Check the operation of all electrical components, including lights, indicators, gauges, and warning systems.
  • Test the battery, alternator, and starter to ensure proper charging and cranking.
  1. Attachments and Accessories Test:
  • If the machine has attachments or accessories (e.g., buckets, forks, blades), test their functionality and alignment.
  • Check for wear and tear on the attachment points and pins.
  1. Operational Efficiency Test:
  • Evaluate the machine’s overall efficiency in performing its intended tasks. This can include lifting capacity, digging power, or other relevant factors based on the machine’s type and purpose.
  1. Safety Systems Test:
  • Test safety features such as seatbelts, rollover protection systems (ROPS), and other safety interlocks.
  • Ensure that warning signals and indicators work properly.
  1. Noise and Vibration Assessment:
  • Listen for unusual noises during operation that may indicate mechanical issues.
  • Assess the level of vibration and its impact on the operator and machine components.
  1. Load and Performance Tests:
    • For specific heavy machinery, conduct load tests to assess their performance under load conditions.
    • Check for stability, tipping, or structural issues when handling loads.
  2. Functional Test of Special Features:
    • If the machine has specialized features (e.g., GPS systems, advanced control systems), ensure they function as intended.
  3. Safety Inspections:
    • Verify that safety guards, shields, and other safety features are in place and functional.
    • Ensure all emergency shut-off systems are operational.

A detailed inspection may also involve using diagnostic tools and equipment to assess the machine’s performance and condition more accurately. It’s important to document the results of these operational tests in a comprehensive inspection report, which can help potential buyers or users make informed decisions about the machine’s purchase or use. Additionally, consulting the manufacturer’s guidelines and specifications for the specific machine being inspected is advisable to ensure that all relevant tests are performed.

AQIS Quarantine check for machinery import to Australia

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What means biosecurity inspection for machinery entering Australia?

Australia’s import regulations for used machinery are the strictest in the world in terms of the cleanliness of the machinery. If used machines are not clean enough to be allowed into Australia, they must be re-exported to Singapore. There they will be cleaned at the buyer’s expense.

Who can do pre-shipping inspections or cleanliness inspections?

Mevas offers AQIS quarantine checks for used heavy machinery before delivery to avoid this. This service we only offer in Germany and sometimes in ports in Belgium or the Netherlands. Last year, for example, we inspected a Hitachi EX1200 for a customer. If you want to know more about this, feel free to ask your question in the comments below. Or give us a call. We are happy to share our experiences.

Hitachi EX1200 mining excavator

What rules exist for biosecurity cleaning for Australia?

Biosecurity inspection for machinery entering Australia refers to a set of procedures and checks implemented by the Australian government to prevent the introduction and spread of pests, diseases, and contaminants that could harm the country’s agriculture, environment, and public health. These inspections are crucial to safeguard Australia’s unique ecosystems and protect its agricultural industry from potentially devastating threats.

Video about the cleaning for Australia

Key points regarding biosecurity inspection for machinery entering Australia include:

  1. Risk Assessment: Machinery that enters Australia is assessed for its potential to carry or introduce biosecurity risks. This assessment takes into account factors such as the machinery’s origin, history of use, and any potential contaminants it may carry.
  2. Cleaning and Treatment Requirements: Many types of machinery, equipment, and vehicles must undergo thorough cleaning and treatment to remove soil, plant material, and other contaminants before entering Australia. This is to ensure that they do not introduce pests and diseases into the country.
  3. Import Permits: Depending on the type of machinery, an import permit may be required. Permits are issued by the Australian Department of Agriculture, Water, and the Environment and outline specific conditions and requirements that must be met.
  4. Inspection at the Border: Machinery entering Australia is subject to inspection at the border. This inspection is carried out by biosecurity officers who check the machinery for signs of contamination and conduct further examinations as necessary.
  5. Quarantine Facilities: In some cases, machinery may be directed to quarantine facilities for further inspection, cleaning, or treatment. This is especially true if the machinery is found to be heavily contaminated or poses a higher risk.
  6. Biosecurity Charges: Importers are typically responsible for the costs associated with biosecurity inspection and any necessary cleaning or treatment. These charges can vary depending on the type of machinery and the extent of the inspection and treatment required.
  7. Regulations and Compliance: It is essential for importers to be familiar with and comply with Australian biosecurity regulations and guidelines to ensure a smooth entry process for their machinery.

The goal of biosecurity inspection for machinery entering Australia is to maintain the country’s biosecurity and protect its agriculture, environment, and public health. Australia has stringent biosecurity measures in place to mitigate the risk of introducing invasive species, pests, and diseases that could have detrimental effects on its ecosystems and industries.

Experts for used concrete equipment

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Is there an inspection service available for used concrete pumps and ready-mix trucks?

At MEVAS, we take the guesswork out of your used concrete equipment purchases. Our team of seasoned engineers specializes in pre-delivery inspections, ensuring that your investment is a sound one.

What sets us apart? ✅ Comprehensive Visual Checks: Our experienced engineers meticulously inspect every component, leaving no stone unturned. ✅ Rigorous Functional Testing: We don’t just look; we put the equipment to the test, including a water test, to verify its operational integrity. ✅ Detailed Inspection Reports: Within just one day, you’ll receive a comprehensive inspection report, complete with high-quality photos and a video. It’s like having eyes on the ground even when you can’t be there. ✅ Confidence in Your Purchase: Our reports provide a clear picture of the equipment’s condition. You’ll know if it’s in excellent shape, requires minor touch-ups, or needs significant repairs.

MEVAS is your trusted partner in making informed decisions when buying used concrete pumps, ready-mix trucks, and batching plants. Choose confidence, choose MEVAS.”

What kind of concrete equipment exists and can be inspected by Mevas technicians?

Concrete production and transport equipment plays a crucial role in the construction industry, ensuring that concrete is mixed, transported, and placed efficiently and effectively. There are various types of equipment used in the concrete production and transport process, including:

  1. Batching Plant: Batching plants are facilities where raw materials like cement, aggregates, and water are mixed to produce concrete. There are two main types: ready-mix concrete plants and central mix concrete plants.
  2. Transit Mixers: These are specialized trucks designed to transport freshly mixed concrete from the batching plant to the construction site. They have a rotating drum to keep the concrete from setting during transportation.
  3. Concrete Pumps: Concrete pumps are used to deliver concrete to high-rise or hard-to-reach construction sites. They come in two main types: boom pumps, which use a robotic arm to place the concrete accurately, and line pumps, which use hoses to pump concrete to the desired location.
  4. Agitators: These are similar to transit mixers but are used to transport ready-mixed concrete over shorter distances. They don’t have the rotating drum and are primarily used for onsite concrete delivery.
  5. Mobile Mixers: Mobile mixers are portable concrete mixing units that can be transported to the construction site. They are typically used for smaller projects or in locations where a stationary batching plant is not practical.
  6. Concrete Buggies: Concrete buggies, also known as power buggies or Georgia buggies, are motorized vehicles used to transport and pour concrete in areas with limited access.
  7. Concrete Conveyor Belts: Conveyor belts are used to transport concrete from the mixing plant or mixer to the pouring location. They can be mounted on trucks or used as standalone units.
  8. Concrete Buckets: These are used to transport and pour concrete in small quantities. They are often attached to cranes or other lifting equipment.
  9. Slipform Pavers: Slipform pavers are specialized machines used for the continuous pouring and shaping of concrete, typically for road construction and large-scale paving projects.
  10. Concrete Reclaimer Systems: These systems are used to collect and recycle excess or returned concrete, reducing waste and environmental impact.
  11. Concrete Mixers: Concrete mixers come in various sizes and configurations, including portable and stationary mixers, which are used for smaller-scale on-site mixing.
  12. Volumetric Mixers: Volumetric mixers are mobile batching plants that can mix concrete on-site to specific proportions, allowing for flexibility in the concrete mix design.
  13. Concrete Silos: These are storage structures used to store bulk quantities of cement and other materials before they are mixed in the batching plant.
  14. Concrete Cooling Systems: In hot climates, concrete cooling equipment is used to control the temperature of the concrete during mixing and transportation to prevent premature setting.
  15. Concrete Aggregates Crushers and Screens: Equipment for crushing and screening aggregates used in concrete production.

The choice of equipment depends on the scale of the project, the distance to the construction site, and other project-specific requirements. Proper selection and maintenance of concrete production and transport equipment are essential for ensuring the quality and efficiency of concrete construction.

Machinery Inspections in the U.A.E.

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Who can offer inspections for used heavy machinery in the Emirates?

Most people in the machinery industry know Mevas as a German inspection service with inspectors in Europe. Did you know we also have a technician in Dubai? Engineer Anas is covering the Emirates for us and is a really experienced guy. Just recently he inspected for us a CAT D8R bulldozer including measurement of undercarriage and download of the CAT-PSR from machine ECM.

We can offer inspections in all areas of the UAE. Our inspector can be present on the auction site of Ritchie Bros. Dubai to support your business. On auction sites we offer a special kind of inspection for a lower fee. Call us for more details.

CAT D8R bulldozer

How can I import a used bulldozer from Middle East?

Importing a used heavy machine like a bulldozer from the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) or any other country in the Middle East involves several steps and considerations. Here’s a general guide on how to import a used bulldozer:

  1. Research Import Regulations:
    Begin by researching the import regulations and requirements for heavy machinery in your country. Contact your country’s customs authority or visit their website to find information on necessary permits, taxes, duties, and safety standards.
  2. Verify Import Eligibility:
    Ensure that the bulldozer you intend to import complies with your country’s emissions standards, safety regulations, and other requirements. Some countries may have restrictions on the age or condition of imported used machinery.
  3. Find a Reliable Supplier:
    Look for reputable suppliers in the U.A.E. who deal with used bulldozers. You can check online marketplaces, industry directories, or work with a local agent or broker to help you find a reliable source.
  4. Inspect the Bulldozer:
    Before finalizing the purchase, arrange for an inspection of the bulldozer to ensure it’s in the condition as described. You may want to hire a third-party inspector or work with a trusted local contact in the U.A.E. to examine the equipment.
  5. Negotiate the Terms:
    Negotiate the purchase price, payment terms, and delivery arrangements with the seller. Be clear on who is responsible for shipping, insurance, and any necessary modifications to meet your country’s requirements.
  6. Obtain Documentation:
    Ensure that you have all the necessary documentation for the import process, including the bulldozer’s title, bill of sale, and any certificates of compliance. You may also need to provide identification and import licenses.
  7. Arrange Shipping:
    Decide on the shipping method (e.g., containerized shipping, roll-on/roll-off, or flat rack) and choose a reputable freight forwarder or shipping company experienced in heavy machinery transportation. Make sure the bulldozer is properly secured for transportation.
  8. Customs Clearance:
    Work with a customs broker or handle the customs clearance process yourself. Provide all required documents, pay any applicable customs duties, taxes, and fees, and follow the customs clearance procedures of your country.
  9. Pay Import Duties and Taxes:
    Be prepared to pay import duties and taxes, which can vary depending on the bulldozer’s value and your country’s import regulations. Consult with your country’s customs authority to determine the exact amount.
  10. Safety and Environmental Compliance:
    Ensure that the bulldozer meets safety and environmental standards in your country. You may need to make modifications or adjustments to comply with local regulations.
  11. Transport and Delivery:
    Arrange for the transportation of the bulldozer from the port of entry to your desired location, such as a construction site or storage facility.
  12. Register and Insure:
    Once the bulldozer is in your possession, register it with the relevant authorities and obtain insurance coverage as required in your country.

Keep in mind that the specific requirements and regulations can vary greatly depending on your country, so it’s essential to consult with local customs authorities, import experts, and legal professionals who specialize in import/export regulations to ensure a smooth and compliant import process.