Grade control technology has been marketed as a premium add-on to earthmoving machinery for so long because it addresses skilled labour shortages and the demand for greater project efficiency and accuracy. However, as those circumstances become the norm, companies are now being urged to make grade control a standard feature of their equipment.
Technological adoption has been widespread in many industries, and the construction industry is no exception. Earthmoving equipment is constantly evolving, with automated systems becoming the standard to minimise operator fatigue and maximise consistency.
Some trends have made a mark but haven’t been fully adopted yet. For instance, companies are also eyeing powering machinery with electricity rather than traditional fuels. The Australian electric earthmoving equipment market has already garnered a revenue of $2,232.5 million in 2023, with expectations to hit $3,436 million by 2030.
Machine control systems are a key piece of technology that bridges digital plans and physical work for better control. It plays into the concept of prevention through design, which can improve workforce reliability and sustainability in the long run.
A deep dive into construction technology trends on grade control
While grade control is a form of machine control, not all machine control is configured for grade. Grade control is a more specific application that aims to achieve the precise elevation required for machine attachment. This mechanism can be utterly valuable in modern earthmoving, where the right slope can make or break safety.
For reference, the global grade control system market size reached $4.2 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $11.8 billion by 2033. Widespread adoption, once it becomes standard equipment, could raise these figures significantly.
Here’s an overview of the most prominent grade control technology:
2D and 3D Grade Control
2D Grade Control uses two-dimensional sensors, such as lasers or sonic tracers, to measure the surface. Understanding those insights and the distance between the machine and the ground can result in a more effective application.
Some operators may prefer 2D grade control over 3D options since it can be applied to a variety of applications and disregards the need for thorough preparation. However, 3D grade control systems have an edge by using 3D sensors such as GPS and digital models.
These advanced sensors can take in real time data and measurements that can be much more accurate compared to 2D grade control systems. Plus, it can be embedded in 3D design files, enhancing construction project planning.
Grade Control Software
Pairing 2D or 3D grade control sensors with software systems can streamline the process and improve workflow. Real-time data is preferred, as the most accurate positioning and site grading can result in precise cutting and filling.
This software can also be combined with certain hardware add-ons. For instance, in-cab displays show the operator real-time progress relative to the desired grade. These insights can support the overall success of this task.
Modern Motor Grader
Motor graders are the main construction machinery for flattening and smoothing surfaces that require precise slopes. Traditionally, this equipment is among the most skill-intensive machines to operate on the project.
Equipping motor graders with the aforementioned grade control sensors and software can revolutionise the output from their deployment and hydraulically adjust the blade control. Meeting the exact slope and elevation specifications can save a lot of time.
Creating a new equipment standard
Grade control systems are widely used in motor graders, but their potential for excavator technology and other earthmoving equipment is revolutionary. Here are the benefits of setting a new standard.
Utilising grade control systems can yield better savings and improve budget management. Holt of California in the U.S. has a legacy of delivering exemplary equipment solutions and product support to its customers since 1931. It reveals that grade control systems constitute 40 per cent less material usage and lower fuel consumption.
“Cat® Grade with Cross Slope Assist is an integrated system that enables motor grader operators to achieve grade faster and more accurately by automating the cross slope of the blade, allowing the operator to do more in the same amount of time,” the company states.
Grade control and assistance are becoming the standard on excavators to execute precise trenching, footing excavation, and site prep without the need for traditional survey stakes. The time these systems save can help companies meet project deadlines.
It also refines the grading efficiency. Precision is vital to minimise potential moisture ingress and control humidity. Preventing both water and air leaks is paramount for industrial facilities and other enclosed buildings.
In addition to improving site conditions for clientele, better grading can also lead to safer working conditions for operators and contractors. While 2024 statistics show a 24 per cent decrease in the fatality rate since 2014, it’s still critical to remain vigilant about these issues.
As much as possible, reducing personnel exposure to heavy machinery, such as earthmoving equipment, is preferred to avoid accidents. Grade control systems can help operators, grade checkers and surveyors have minimal contact without sacrificing work quality.