First Volvo excavator for A&L McCrae
New 30-tonne EC300E joins two A30G articulated haulers on contract crushing operations
A&L McCrae of Whitehouse, Argyll, have taken delivery of their first Volvo excavator, opting for a 30-tonne EC300E. The machine will be deployed on hard-rock contract crushing projects undertaken by the family-run civil engineering and contracting business throughout the west of Scotland.
Replacing an older competitor model, the EC300E was chosen thanks to the reliability and performance of a Volvo 960 motor grader and two A30G articulated haulers purchased at the beginning of 2018.
‘We’ve been very satisfied with the reliability of our Volvo grader and haulers, which is essential when they are working in really remote areas,’ commented Calum McCrae. ‘We have a diverse range of clients. Our contracts can vary from routine road maintenance to full-scale road construction, so operating machines that we can rely upon is crucial.
‘Based on our experience with our existing Volvo equipment, we decided to opt for the 30-tonne EC300E, and we have a high expectation that it will perform in the same satisfactory manner.’
The machine is powered by a Volvo six-cylinder Stage V compliant engine that develops 243hp. Operators can select the best work mode for the task at hand, ensuring optimal performance and fuel efficiency. Modes include I-idle, F-fine, G-general, H-heavy or P-power, with the machine automatically setting the appropriate engine speed for the selected work mode.
The machine is also equipped with an all new Eco mode that works in modes G, H or P. Pump flow is controlled for combined digging and swinging operations to reduce the flow loss through the overload relief valves, while maintaining digging power and maximum swing torque.
According to Volvo CE, Eco mode provides better fuel efficiency without loss of performance in most operating conditions.
To combat the typical terrain the machine will be working on, the EC300E has been fitted with optional 600mm double-grouser track pads. It also features an optional boom float device and an automatic greasing system for the equipment.
The EC300E will work together with the two A30G articulated haulers on contract crushing projects throughout the west of Scotland, in addition to supporting activities at the family’s Barrachander Quarry, near Taynuilt.
A&L McCrae were established 40 years ago in the Argyll area by husband and wife team Alistair and Linda McCrae. Now supported by their son Calum, the business has grown into a multi-disciplined civil engineering firm and quarry operator.
