F D Builders is a family-run business that was established in 1981 by Sean Hopper’s father in Saltash, Cornwall.
The company specialises in all aspects of building development work throughout Devon and Cornwall and has taken delivery of a Volvo 2.5 tonne zero swing compact excavator.
“We already run a small loader, micro excavator and a twin drum roller, but hire in larger machines for groundworking and other activities when we need to. We felt that by adding a 2.5 tonne machine, it would give us greater flexibility for the general day to day jobs we undertake,” comments Sean.
“The Volvo ECR25D was highly recommended by several end users we work with for its all-round performance and reliability and just as importantly, the good relationships forged with the local dealer, Plant & Equipment Services. These were the deciding factors that led us to opt for the Volvo.”
The ECR25D has an operating weight of 2.5 tonnes, is powered by a 1.1 litre low emission engine and develops 21hp. The machine is available with a choice of a long or short dipper arm, giving a reach of either 4.48 metres or 4.77meters, while also providing a dig depth of 2.67 metres to a generous 2.96 metres.
The zero swing design provides exceptional stability, while also being ideally suited for working in confined spaces. Simultaneous control of slew and offset movements provides faster, more precise performance. All hydraulic functions are also performed in total independence for more control and less delay when handling multiple tasks. As an added bonus, the machine also provides the ability to operate a wide range of hydraulic attachments by using proportional control.
Besides the normal assortment of buckets supplied with the machine, Sean Hopper has increased the scope of his ECR25D by adding a ripper tooth, hydraulic auger and a breaker to cover all aspects of the work it will be expected to undertake.
Plant & Engineering Services located at Beare, near Exeter, is SMT GB’s utility dealer covering the south west of England.
