Going solo

Following extensive tests and machine comparisons, Bardon Aggregates have purchased an R974B-HD Litronic faceshovel for Venn Quarry, near Barnstaple in Devon.

The faceshovel, which is fitted with a bottom-dump bucket, is the only excavator on site and works a full 10h day, five days a week. It is used to excavate material at the face, load a fleet of Volvo articulated dumptrucks with blasted material, strip overburden as the quarry expands, and lift and drop a 5-tonne drop-ball for secondary breaking purposes.