Volvo compact diggers touchdown in Oz

Volvo Construction Equipment's latest release, the D-series compact excavators features powerful Volvo engines and matching hydraulic systems to provide maximum efficiency at work sites where space is limited.

The EC18D, ECR25D, ECR35D and ECR50D offer power ranging from 16.3hp to 41.8hp, with up to 36.1kN of breakout force for a powerful performance.

An automatic two-speed travel is available on all models for optimised traction, as well as hydraulic travel pedals for easy and accurate track control.

ECR50D: the flagship

Out of the four models, Volvo says the ECR50D is expected to be the most popular model with its 5-tonne operating weight, superior digging performance, high lifting capabilities and leading breakout and tearout forces.

It features a 41.8hp Volvo D2.6A engine with an advanced hydraulic system, providing a 36.12kN breakout force and 25.93kN maximum tearout force.

Its compact size and powerful functions make it ideal for site preparation, construction landscaping, and utility operators, Volvo says.

The boom and attachment geometry has been enhanced to allow an increased working range of up to 3659mm digging depth on the short arm.

The ECR50D also features an ECO mode that Volvo says reduces fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent without any loss of performance. In addition, the load sensing hydraulic system only supplies power when required, further improving fuel efficiency.

Automatic idling and engine shutdown functions, which activate after the machines have been inactive for some time, ensure the unit do not use up unnecessary power and fuel.

With two factory fitted auxiliary hydraulic circuits, the ERC50D can be fitted with a selection of attachments for a variety of jobs. Using the keypad controls inside the cab, the operator can adjust the auxiliary hydraulic flows for optimal attachment operation.

The keypad has four pre-programmed, adjustable settings which can be customised to match attachment and individual needs.  The operator can also adjust the direction and amount of hydraulic flow using a fingertip roller control.

Swapping attachments is as easy as pressing a hydraulic quick coupler switch inside the cab.

Superstructure

A narrow body design means the rears of the machines always swing within their track shoe.

This means the excavators can get extremely close to objects without risk of collision with the rear of the machines as they swing. The short front/rear radius also allows the units to work conveniently within a single highway lane.

The EC18D, ECR25D, ECR35D and ECR50D are available with a mono-boom, several arm configurations and blade to carry out a wide variety of tasks. Their reinforced, three-piece, high-tensile steel X-shaped frame undercarriage ensures the machines are able to withstand the most demanding work environments.

Comfort factor

With the exception of the smallest EC18D, the other three models are equipped with fully air-conditioned cabs and are ROPS and OPG certified. All controls and switches are ergonomically placed, and the adjustable suspension seats offer a comfortable and smooth ride for the operator.

Positioning of the machines can be controlled quickly and easily, with slew and offset movements controlled simultaneously with a joystick.

Maintenance

All check points on the D-series excavators; including engine oil, air filter, coolant level and fuel filtration check are readily accessible at ground level and grouped under wide-opening, lockable hoods.

A patented multi-function hydraulic oil filter improves protection of the hydraulic system. It allows early detection of oil pollutants to enable preventative maintenance to be carried out before damage occurs.

The new Volvo D-series excavators are now available in Australia. Volvo's range of construction equipment is distributed in Australia via CJD Equipment.