“I’m sticking with Volvo…”
So says Brian Taylor, proprietor of B G Taylor Groundworks of Glenrothes as he reflects on one year’s operation with his Volvo EC27C and ECR50D compact excavators.
Having owned and operated a Volvo ECR88 Plus (8.5 tonnes) for some time now, Brian Taylor was looking to replace a two and a half, and a five-tonne excavator he also had in his plant fleet, about a year ago. “I’d made contact with Rockbreakers initially to look for a manual quick hitch for my 88 but we soon started talking about the EC27C and ECR50D models as possible replacements for my other machines,” explains Brian.
Having had a closer look at the Volvo offering, Brian Taylor made up his mind to change out the older machines, placing his order with Rockbreakers UK, SMT GB’s utility dealer for the Central Belt and southern Scotland. “I’m really glad I switched to Volvo,” says Brian. “They are solid, well-built machines and their performance is second to none in my opinion. Over the last year, all we’ve had to do is carry out the regular maintenance and haven’t had to lay a spanner on them. The parts back-up from Rockbreakers is excellent and they are always on hand to give advice and help when we need it, so we’re sticking with our Volvos!”
The EC27C is powered by a Volvo 1.6-litre low emission Stage-III engine, coupled to a load-sensing hydraulic system for optimum performance and fuel saving.
Simultaneous control of slew and offset movements provides faster, more precise performance due to the right joystick control lever that features an electronically proportional roller. This allows the operator to accurately adjust hydraulic flow as needed. All hydraulic functions are performed in total independence for more control and less delay when handling multiple tasks. An automatic two-speed travel system engages when operating in high speed mode, automatically shifting gear from high to low according to the travel load. Another feature for increased efficiency is the standard auto-idling system that lowers engine speed to idle if a control is not used for five seconds. The engine reverts to the pre-selected speed almost instantly when any control is moved. This system delivers lower fuel consumption, longer engine life and less environmental noise.
The ECR50D is Volvo’s first true five-tonne excavator and features a fuel-efficient Volvo D2.6A four-cylinder engine and brings a useful power increase too, with 41.8hp. Eco-plus preset engine rpm modes and an auto-idle function let the operator make the most of the machine’s power and economy. The short radius machine will make it easy for the business to work in confined spaces, while its powerful blade will be useful for tidying up on-site.
With load sensing, variable displacement hydraulics, plus flow sharing and proportional controls, the ECR50D also brings big machine capability to a compact package. With auxiliary lines and 75-litres/min oil flow, it offers much more than just the ability to dig holes.
Both models feature Volvo’s industry-leading comfortable cab for less fatigue and more production. The ergonomically-designed cab offers greater leg and foot room, making it one of the most spacious in its category and the servo hydraulics levers integral to the seat unit for maximum operator comfort.