New Volvo excavators for RJ McLeod

Glasgow-based contractor strengthens mobile plant fleet with two new 38-tonne EC380D excavators

RJ McLeod (Contractors) Ltd have taken delivery of two new 38-tonne Volvo EC380D excavators as an increment to their existing fleet of mobile plant equipment.

The first of the two Volvo machines was purchased on the prospect of considerable fuel savings over the company’s existing 36-tonne models as well as strong residual values. With the promise of substantial savings having been proved with the first EC380D, RJ McLeod had no qualms in ordering a second unit according to Bill Paterson, McLeod’s plant manager.

The second EC380D has gone straight to work on a prestigious wind-farm project being undertaken by RJ McLeod, near Huntly, in Aberdeenshire. The machine is equipped with a Miller Twin Lock quick-hitch and general-purpose bucket. It is being deployed in clearing specific areas of forest to excavate rock and stone from borrow pits to create material for new roads and plinth bases for the wind turbines.

Both machines are taking over front-line duties from two existing Volvo EC36OC models, which have been retained for secondary work.

At the heart of the EC380D is a Volvo Stage IIIB V-ACT 13-litre engine (279hp), which is ideally matched to an automatic sensing mode hydraulic system. The model also features an automatic idling system that reduces engine speed when the levers and pedals are not activated – aiding fuel efficiency and reducing external noise.

When only a single function is being used, the two-pump hydraulics system combines the flow of both pumps for quick cycle times and greater productivity. It can also prioritize flow according to the work being carried out; for example, to the boom for faster raising during loading or in deep excavations, or to the arm during levelling or swing during large slewing angles.