Lomas Distribution add new Volvo equipment to fleet

National logistics provider expands operation with L220G wheel loader and EC220D excavator

LOMAS Distribution Ltd have diversified their mobile plant fleet with the addition of a Volvo L220G loading shovel and a 22-tonne EC220D excavator.

Since its inception in 1986, the company led by managing director Richard Lomas has grown from a one man and a van operation into a major national logistics provider, employing 300-plus employees running more than 200 HGV tractors, 300 bulk tanker trailers and a large number of rigid and articulated bulk tipping trailers.

‘We wanted to offer an additional service to our existing customers by providing bulk storage and a re-handling service for commodities such as rock salt, crushed aggregates, wood chip for bio-mass and similar materials,’ said Mr Lomas.

‘Since approximately half of our transport fleet is powered by Volvo and supported fully by the manufacturer, we wanted to look at the offering from Volvo’s Construction Equipment division and, on taking advice from several third parties, opted for the L220G wheel loader and EC220D excavator.’

The 33-tonne loading shovel (full quarry specification) has been supplied with a 5.4 cubic metre straight-lipped re-handling bucket, XLDD2A tyres, red and white chevrons on the rear of the machine, and reversing and visibility aids.

Equipped with a 13-litre Stage IIIB-compliant engine (371hp), Optishift transmission and axles (all designed and manufactured by Volvo), the L220G offers a full-turn tipping load of 16.8 tonnes and a breakout force of 201.1kN.

Two variable-displacement, load-bearing axial piston pumps have been introduced to deliver flow and pressure. This provides superior control of the load and attachments, as well as high breakout force and faster lifting and tilt functions.

Fuel savings are further enhanced on the wheel loader by the Volvo Eco pedal, which encourages the operator to run the machine at its optimum rev/min in the engine’s torque curve.

The new EC220D excavator has been similarly specified to allow it, when needed, to work in the quarry environment. The machine benefits from the use of Volvo’s Stage IIIB D6 engine that delivers 175hp (129kW) and 849Nm of torque, coupled with an improved hydraulic system featuring larger pumps, which, in turn, significantly improves hourly fuel consumption with shorter cycle times.

Operators can select the best work mode for the task at hand, ensuring optimum 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 work mode.

There is also a new Eco mode feature that works in G, H or P mode. 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. Eco mode provides better fuel efficiency without loss of performance in most operating conditions.