<P>Competition is heating up in the market for milling machines, which has been dominated for many years by Wirtgen. The German firm still retains a strong share of this market, but is now facing much tougher levels of competition from key rivals, and Atlas Copco, BOMAG, Caterpillar and Roadtec in particular. Meanwhile the market is also seeing the return of another familiar name to the fold, CMI, although it is still early on in the brand’s relaunch. It is worth noting that much of the innovation in the milling machine market is focussed at the larger end of the market. BOMAG and Wirtgen have developed new compact milling machines in addition to larger units but for the other players, the focus is on bigger equipment and the 2m class in particular.</P>
<P>BOMAG’s revised milling machine line now stretches from compact models up to the large, highway class units. There is a new model for the 500mm class in the shape of the BM500/15 and for the 1m class with the BM1000/35, BM1200/35 and BM1300/35. All of these units are said to be manoeuvrable, versatile and productive. But at the larger end of its range, the company has augmented its existing 2m class model, the BM2000/60, with the addition of the more powerful BM2000/75 and BM2200/75. The BM2000/60 and BM2000/75 have the same basis structure and a cutting width of 2m, but the latter machine has a more powerful engine delivering 567kW, which is said to increase productivity. The same diesel powers the BM2200/75, which also has a 350mm maximum cutting depth and is again based on the same basic chassis, but offers a cutting width of 2.2m.</P>
<P>The Dynapac PL2000 milling machine from Atlas Copco Road Construction Equipment can handle milling widths of 2.1m and milling depths of 320mm. Power comes from a Cummins diesel and the firm claims that the PL2000 offers strong traction power, optimised performance and low operating costs. The firm offers the machine in either Tier 3 or Tier 4 versions, depending on the emissions requirements of the local market.</P>
<P>According to the firm the new PL2000 is efficient and offers high milling performance, while being cost-effective for users. The machine runs on four crawlers and has low operating noise, while it is said to be stable in operation and highly durable. Ergonomic controls and a vibration damped operator station make the machine easier to use for longer periods. The two-stage, covered front-loading conveyor belt is said to offer a long working life, while the machine is said to have an efficient levelling system to compensate for uneven ground. Meanwhile it also has a quick-change tool holder system, allowing faster replacement of cutters and reducing downtime.</P>
