New Volvo machines take charge at GD Harries & Sons

Volvo EC380E excavator and L220H loading shovel take over as prime movers at Bolton Hill Quarry

WELSH quarry operators GD Harries & Sons have taken delivery of a new Volvo EC380E excavator for their Bolton Hill operation, near Haverfordwest, where it joins a L220H wheel loader which was delivered to the quarry earlier this year.

Both machines are now working in tandem as the prime movers across the site, loading and hauling in excess of 2,000 tonnes of material on a daily basis.

According to quarry manager Gareth Phillips, Volvo’s renowned product quality and the advantageous package on offer were the main drivers in determining the choice of the latest machine purchase.

‘We’ve run Volvo shovels and articulated haulers for many years and know they represent exceptional value for money when it comes to longevity, reliability and productivity. The new arrivals are performing as expected and are very much appreciated by our machine operators in terms of handling, controllability and comfort.’

Launched at Hillhead 2014, the L220H loader is powered by a 13-litre Stage IV Final-compliant engine developing 373hp between 1,300 and 1,400 rev/min. The wheel loader also benefits from Volvo-designed and manufactured driveline components, including the company’s Optishift system with torque converter lock-up and reverse-by-braking features – all designed to offer considerable fuel savings on each shift.

For the loading of crushed quartz diorite into two rigid haulers at Bolton Hill, the L220H loading shovel has been equipped with a long boom option and a 4.9 cubic metre capacity spade nosed bucket, providing a load-over height of 5.35m. Fitted with 29.5 x 25 L5 Michelin XLDD2A tyres, the machine also benefits from Volvo’s optional ride-control and boom suspension system for maximum load retention on load-and-carry duties.

The EC380E excavator is equipped with a 306hp, 13-litre Stage IV Final-compliant engine that is well matched to the machine’s hydraulics, which are controlled by an advanced system that provides on-demand flow and reduces power losses within the circuit.

The machine’s special ECO mode is said to contribute to significant fuel savings without any loss of performance in most operating conditions. It also offers the operator a choice of five other work modes: I (Idle); F (Fine); G (General); H (Heavy); and P (Power max).

The EC380E offers a forward reach of 11.0m, a maximum digging depth of 7.3m and a load-over height of 7.2m.