FCC

We plan to add more products to our mining portfolio

2023-12-25

Amarnath Ramachandran, Managing Director, ARX Mining & Construction Equipment

Tell us about the company and its offerings.

Arx Mining and Construction Equipment was incorporated in 2019. We have a fleet of motor graders, including the 12 tonne, 17 tonne, 21 tonne, and a 32-tonne grader. The 32-tonne grader is designed for coal mining and heavy earthwork, while the 21 tonne can be used for road construction and mining. The 12 tonne is mainly for smaller roads. The Arx range of motor graders are built with state-of-the-art drivelines, an advanced hydraulic system, robust structures and ergonomically designed for convenience and control.

Additionally, we have a blasthole drill rig for coal mining with innovative features, such as a rock changer that can go up to 24 m. The ArxD3300 blasthole drill rig is an innovative design that combines the high traction speed of an excavator, the slewing function of a piling rig and a strong derrick that can be customised for different rod lengths.

Are these products all manufactured in India?

Yes, all our products are entirely manufactured in India at our plant in Kolar district, Bengaluru. We have a strong design team, and while some components come from Western Europe, our machines are specialised and state-of-the-art.

Could you elaborate on how automation, IoT, and telematics play a role in your machines?

With the advent of emission norms, all our machines come fitted with ECU, transmission controllers, and brakes with controlling interfaces. We also utilise telematics to monitor machine health, with data sent to the OEM, dealer, and end customer. We work with Trimble and have a laser control system for precise grading, reducing the need for highly skilled operators.

How do you address the challenge of high costs in a price-sensitive market?

We don't focus on the initial cost but rather on the total cost of ownership. Our machines use high-quality components from Germany and Italy, contributing to a longer lifespan. We emphasise the value delivered to the customer, and once explained, they understand and appreciate the product.

What about training initiatives for operators?

We offer training at our factory for operators to understand the machines. Additionally, we have master operators who go to the site and assist new operators. We can also provide operators on a contract basis if needed.

What are your expectations from Excon, and what are your plans for the company in 2024?

Excon is an excellent platform for us to display our machines and connect with contractors nationwide. In 2024, we expect significant growth, exceeding market indicators, as we focus on settling down our products, expanding our dealership networks, and adding more products to our mining portfolio. The election year does not significantly impact our plans.