First customer for the
latest Richard Smalley 363MkII amphibious dredger is Barry Westby
Groundworks of Broadway, Worcs .
This updated design has
a larger 63 kw ( 83.5 bhp) at 2,500 rpm water cooled diesel engine,
lifting capacity increased by 20%, capable of loading a full 400litre
bucket every time. PTO as standard piped to the end of the jib
providing three separate power take offs, one for driving mud
pumping or other auxiliary equipment , one for addition al double
acting hydraulic ram operation and the third for hydraulic grab
rotation/ hydraulic motor operation. All controlled by electric servo
press button controls either on the hand levers or the dashboard for
precise control and operation other hydraulic equipment such as pile
driving, chainsaw or mud pump. The hydraulic system has been improved
to incorporate a more efficient cooling system to accommodate its
ability for long hours of mud pumping.
The machine retains
full 360° slew, amphibious capability to access rivers, ponds,
canals, estuaries etc without the need for a crane. Working from the
water makes more areas accessible, not restricted by riverine
properties but with 7metre reach can unload into a barge or tubboat
or over embankments. This model features a removable cab leaving seat
and hydraulic controls intact, essential to access those areas where
work has always been restricted by low bridges or other obstacles.
This removal is facilitated by a small demountable crane. Air draught
with whole cab removed is 1.44 metres approximately.
Richard Smalley
amphibious dredgers have been sold throughout the world since 1982,
its ability to be carried on a standard flat bed truck from site to
site, load and unload itself without needing a crane and still access
clogged waterways has made it a market leader in small dredging
machines. The dredger consists of a purposefully designed excavator
with specialised geometry for the jib and dipper to offer an
excellent reach and good dipper geometry designed to prevent the
bucket from piercing the pontoon when digging close to the machine.
The pontoon is mounted
on 3 pairs of 1.2 metre diameter hollow wheels, these provide
flotation in the water and support the machine on land for movement
between vehicle and embankment. This latest model builds on
experience gained in New York Central Park, Mumbai, Colombo, Gt Ouse
and Thames rivers, Colombia and Florida
