New D-series Volvo excavators for Embassy Demolition

Contractor strengthens machinery fleet with four new EC220D models and a bespoke EC480D

NORTH London-based Embassy Demolition Ltd have acquired four new Volvo EC220D excavators and a three-piece high-reach demolition rig mounted on a EC480D, making their fleet of crawler machines virtually 100% Volvo.

Established in 1971 and a long standing member of the NFDC (National Federation of Demolition Contractors) since inception, Embassy Demolition specialize in demolition and recycling solutions for projects covering Greater London and the Home Counties.

Adding more Volvo excavators to the company’s fleet, Embassy managing director Jim O’Doherty explained: ‘It’s the build quality and reliability we like about the Volvo machines. They are robust and well specified for the sort of application we deal with.’

The aftermarket support is just as important as Embassy’s operation with all the equipment being covered by Volvo’s Blue Customer support agreements. Under the arrangement, the Volvo machines will be serviced and maintained by qualified Volvo service engineers, including regular inspections, oil sampling/analysis and comprehensive, proactive reports to maximize machine productivity with the aim of enhancing residual values.

The four new Volvo EC220D machines have been equipped with FOGs guarding as well as additional third hydraulic service lines to handle a variety of demolition attachments (hammer/shear and quick fit hydraulics are provided as standard).

‘Equipping the machines this way means we can have full flexibility for the contracts we are undertaking which can be anything from demolition and muck shifting to material or waste rehandling,’ said Mr O’Doherty.

The EC220D benefits from the use of a Volvo Stage IIIB D6 engine, which delivers 175hp (129kW) and 849Nm of torque, coupled with an improved hydraulic system with 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. A new Eco feature that works in G, H or P mode provides better fuel efficiency without loss of performance in most operating conditions.

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. The Eco function provides better fuel efficiency without loss of performance in most operating conditions.

The EC480D excavator supplied to Embassy Demolition replaces an older EC460B model. With a maximum pin height of 26m and forward reach of 14m, the new machine is capable of handling a tool weight of 2,500kgs.

The EC480D is powered a Stage IIIB V-Act 13-litre engine, which develops 348hp and is ideally matched to its automatic sensing mode hydraulic system.

Thanks to a hydraulic modular joint, the machine can be fitted with ultra high-reach demolition equipment, a straight boom arrangement or a standard backacter for digging duties.

Standard features on the ultra high-reach specification include: a hydraulically tilting operator compartment; heavy-duty belly plates; the Volvo SIPS (side impact protection system); 5-tonne additional counterweight; and double thickness to side panels.