The
verdict of Holmes Plant and Construction Ltd, as a further seven Volvo compact
excavators are delivered form SMT GB’s utility dealer, Contractors Equipment
Sales Ltd, is they are "good and robust" machines.
A further
four, zero swing 2.5-tonne ECR25Ds and three larger 5-tonne reduced swing
ECR50Ds have just been delivered to Holmes Plant and Construction Ltd based at
Otley near Ipswich, bringing the total number of Volvo compact excavators to
twelve in a large multi-branded hire fleet.
“The Volvo
compact excavators are good, robust machines,” comments co-Director, Ben
Holmes. “They are easy to operate, they wear well and keep their appearance. We
have regular clients who request them by name and since we find them very
reliable, we tend to hire them to customers with projects further afield.
"Just
as importantly, we have developed a very good relationship with the team at CES
who we find extremely helpful on technical and parts support when we need it.”
Joining a
comprehensive range of equipment including telehandlers, site dumpers and
excavators ranging from micro machines up to 30 tonnes in operating weight that
are available for either operated or non-operated hire, the new ECR25Ds and
ECR50Ds have been supplied with a full range of buckets and quick fits by SMT
GB’s utility dealer for Norfolk and Suffolk – Contractors Equipment Sales Ltd
(CES).
The ECR25D
is the smallest zero swing model in the Volvo compact excavator range and is
powered by a 1.1 litre low emission engine developing 21hp. With an operating
weight of 2.5 tonnes the ECR25D is available with a choice of short or long
dipper arm giving a reach of either 4.48 metres or 4.77metres and a dig depth
measuring from 2.67 metres to a generous 2.96 metres.
The larger
ECR50D features a fuel-efficient Volvo D2.6A four-cylinder engine that brings a
useful power increase at 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. 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.
The zero
or short radius swing excavator design provides exceptional stability and is
ideal for working in confined spaces. Simultaneous control of slew and offset
movements provides faster, more precise performance and all hydraulic functions
are performed in total independence for more control and less delay when
handling multiple tasks. An added bonus is the ability to operate the wide
range of hydraulic attachments using proportional control if required.
“Another
plus point about the Volvo excavators is the cab,” says Ben Holmes. “Both our
own operators and customers alike appreciate the space and comfort and from a
practical point of view, it’s very easy to clean out thanks to its flat floor
characteristics."
