CAT equipment dealer Hastings Deering was established in 1932. In the same decade, CAT started producing motor grader technology. In the 90-years that lie in-between, as mining technology and equipment – including motor graders – has undergone huge transformation, and continues to do so, Hastings Deering has accumulated decades of, arguably, unrivalled experience.

It's this experience that makes it the leading industry specialist in motor grader and mining technology equipment today. In fact, as Hasting Deering approaches its centenary in operation, it remains one of the top 5 Cat dealers worldwide. As well as Australia's first choice when it comes to mining-grade motor grader technology, alongside CAT equipment.

Motor Grader Technology

Hastings Deering Group is deeply connected to heavy industry, including mining, in Australia. Founded by Harold Hastings Deering, a pioneer in the mechanisation of the country, it's headquartered in Brisbane, Queensland and with 23 business centres has one of the largest CAT dealer networks in the country.

Core to its offering is mining-grade motor grader technology. In Australia's expansive mining industry, motor graders are pivotal equipment. Essentially earth moving machines, characterised by long, large and adjustable blade between the front and the rear twin wheels, they are used to build access roads to mining sites, level terrain for equipment setup, and maintain haul roads for safe transportation of extracted materials. They can also mix materials, handle rough grading behind trucks and scrapers, and finish grading to incredibly tight tolerances. 

Although the technology is not directly responsible for producing ore at mine sites, it is pivotal for keeping operations ongoing and does have a direct impact on how well other production machines can operate. For example, by maintaining roads, trucks can run faster and operate more safely. And well-maintained roads save mine sites money on machine maintenance, fuel and tires.

Different motor graders will have differing features but there are some that are known to be conducive to efficient, safe and precise operations. For example, when operating a motor grader high visibility is paramount so operators can monitor blade positioning to more easily avoid obstacles and maintain awareness of ground workers and equipment in close proximity. All critical for mine site safety.

CAT motor graders sold by Hastings Deering have large windows and strategically positioned mirrors meaning operators can enjoy an unobstructed view of their surroundings, as well as rearview camera options.

For efficiency, coverage is also paramount. The Cat 18 Grader, for example, features an 18-foot moldboard, that turns over the earth, and a straight 10 inch by 1-3/8 inch cutting edge. Metrics that allow operators to increase coverage by 12.5% compared to a 16-foot moldboard. Furthermore, the new generation CAT 120 grader offers up to 15% increased fuel economy and up to 15% lower maintenance costs.

In addition, a multi-colour, touch screen Information Display helps the operator monitor machine performance and offers a convenient way of modifying machine parameters for tailing depending on the task. 

The hastings Deering Advantage

Improving further on the capabilities of CAT motor graders, Hastings Deering develops and applies its own technology-enabled upgrades to help customers improve productivity, safety and profit further.

Innovations include Hasting Deering's electrohydraulic joy sticks that the company says are designed to deliver superior comfort and convenience and productivity.

Experts agree introducing joysticks into motor graders in place of traditional levers has made operations smoother.

Compared to conventional lever controls Hastings Deering's joy sticks reduce operator hand and wrist movements by up to 78%, minimising operator fatigue. In addition, the drill pre-axis control sticks feature an intuitive control pattern which creates a seamless and natural way for a user to operate the joystick and motor grader with minimal physical effort, so the experience feels instinctive rather than effortful.

In addition, when purchasing from Hastings Deering motor grader machine users can access the dealer's industry leading support. The company switched from being a Ford dealer to a CAT dealer in 1947, when Deering went on to obtain the Caterpillar agency in the heart and soul of the Australian Outback, Alice Springs. The company therefore benefits from decades of experience and expertise honed over the years of operating, upgrading and servicing CAT motor graders.

Knowing the machines inside out, Hastings Deering can also offer many cost-effective ways to extend machine life and get maximum productivity, safety and comfort from Cat equipment. This includes machine overhaul and adding attachments so a machine can be used for new purposes.

Hastings Deering service agents are also available, in the field, to offer everything from expert advice on maintenance and productivity to basic training.

One-stop-shop

The versatility of motor graders means demand for the technology has significantly increased over the last few years. In particular, Australia's mining sector, is experiencing a spike in demand for motor graders amid a need to improve efficiency and productivity and enhance operational performance.

CAT is widely recognised as an industry leader for this technology. And as Hastings Deering approaches its 100^th year, complete with its 5,000 employees, it remains a one-stop-shop for high-quality motor grader equipment. As well as for parts and attachments, support-based services and technical training.