New Hitachi excavator for French quarry operator

Sotravi Group purchase ZX530LCH-6 machine for granite operation in Brittany

FRENCH quarry operators Sotravi Group have taken delivery of a new Hitachi ZX530LCH-6 excavator for use at their Guena granite quarry in Saint-Renan, Britanny. The machine has been purchased to excavate and load blasted rock on to two Euclid rigid dumptrucks at the 13ha site.

Guena Quarry produces 300,000 tonnes of aggregates per annum and the trucks are used to haul materials to on-site crushers as part of the production process. Sotravi also wash extracted sand and gravel, produce asphalt products and recycle waste materials at Guena.

Freddy Talarmin, president of Sotravi Group, commented: ‘We purchased our first Hitachi machine in 1989 and have bought 14 Hitachi excavators since then, as well as several ZW wheel loaders and an EH750 rigid dumptruck. We remain loyal to Hitachi construction machinery due to the undoubted reliability of the equipment.’

He added: ‘We also enjoy an excellent working relationship with local Hitachi dealers Cobemat and are happy with the latest ZX530LCH-6 addition to our fleet. We aim to change machines after 14,000h and this impressive model has been chosen for its stability, strength and durability.’

Echoing Mr Talarmin’s sentiments, machine operator Eugene Laot has also been impressed with the Hitachi excavator’s capabilities.

‘I’m delighted with the new machine,’ he said. ‘I used to operate a ZX520LCH-5 so I can offer a direct comparison with the latest model. The new machine is fast, powerful and stable – even with a full bucket. One of the highlights is the reversible fan, which helps make maintenance easier on a daily basis.’