Volvo Construction Equipment is bringing two new compact excavators to North America, the 3.5-ton EC37 and the 4-ton ECR40.
Both excavators are designed with features that provide increased operator comfort, 10 per cent more fuel efficiency, better stability and easier maintenance. The two new machines replace the EC35D, ECR35D and ECR40D.
“The 3- to 4-ton size makes up more than a quarter of the compact excavator market in North America, and we’re excited to refresh our offering in that range,” said Darren Ashton, Product Manager for compact equipment at Volvo CE.
“I think our customers will be very happy with the improvements we’ve made based on their feedback.”
The compact excavators share the same platform and components, though the EC37 excavator has a conventional upper carriage design and the ECR40 excavator has a short swing radius to allow for work in more confined spaces. Both machines are powered by the 25 hp Volvo D1.7A engine.
To boost stability, the EC37 and ECR40 include a new elongated undercarriage that improves weight balance by providing longer contact between the tracks and the ground. The adjusted centre of gravity reduces the rocking chair effect other compact excavators may create.
“We made this machine really stable to work on slopes, and to load it on and off trucks and things like that,” Ashton said.
The counterweight is standardized across the two models and the ECR50 and ECR58 excavators to simplify component needs for fleets with multiple models. Optional features include a float blade and LED work lights.
Effortless Volvo CE control
The new EC37 and ECR40 excavators feature a spacious, ergonomic and quiet cab that provides outstanding visibility thanks to slim corner pillars and wide, flat glass areas. For added comfort, the armrest and controls float with the seat, and the door opening and travel pedals are larger than in previous models.
The intuitive jog wheel and easy-to-navigate human machine interface (HMI) functionalities provide controllability and adaptability for any job requirements.
As well, work modes now include an Eco mode and an auto engine shutdown in addition to the existing auto engine idle. With auto engine shutdown, hours not worked are not recorded, keeping the machine operating efficiently for longer while reducing maintenance costs. This also contributes to a 10 per cent boost in fuel efficiency.
Customizable hydraulics
For a wide range of attachments, the customizable hydraulic flow setting and work modes for a wide range of attachments improve ease of operation allowing the excavator to be tailored for any task.
“The load-sensing hydraulics are definitely a highlight,” Ashton said. “The way the controls are set up and the smooth movements are just outstanding, and it all works together for better fuel efficiency.”
If there are multiple operators working with the same machine, each person can set up the controls however they see fit with a few simple setting changes on the new 13-cm HMI.
Reduced maintenance
These new machines boast 50-hour greasing intervals and a fuel tank capacity of 70 litres. The patented multifunction hydraulic oil filter provides protection to the hydraulic system. The engine and rear hoods feature wide openings, and the engine doesn’t require a diesel particulate filter.
“Often, the guys that are running these machines are the guys that are working on these machines. So, when it’s late at night, you want to be working on something that offers that accessibility,” Ashton said.
Read the full article here
