Volvo introduce new Stage IV-compliant excavators

Company completes its E-series crawler excavator range with launch of EC140E and EC220E models

UNVEILED at last week’s Plantworx show, Volvo CE’s latest 14- and 22-tonne crawler excavators, the EC140E and EC220E, are now both equipped with Tier 4 Final/Stage IV engines meeting the latest emission regulations.

The machines also feature a fully optimized hydraulics system and Eco mode which delivers the precise amount of power required to complete the task in hand, while an auto engine shutdown feature helps further reduce fuel consumption and emissions, by automatically switching off after the excavator has been inactive for a pre-set amount of time.

According to Volvo CE, increased pump input power on both excavators helps deliver highly responsive operation for enhanced productivity and cycle times, and with the boom float function, the pump power normally used for boom lowering, can be saved or used for other functions, including reducing cycle times.

Both machines feature an X-shape lower frame for even weight distribution as well as increased stability and durability. Likewise, the heavy-duty undercarriages of the excavators both provide high tractive force in demanding terrain while the robust design of the boom and arm includes internal plates positioned to support pressure points during operation. These plates help disperse pressure to ensure maximum productivity and uptime on the EC140E and EC220E machines.

A key design factor in developing the latest E-series excavators has been operator comfort. All machine interfaces, including the joystick, keypad and 8in LCD monitor, have been ergonomically designed and can be customized to operator preferences.

The number of switches in the cab has been reduced and, for added convenience, functions (eg windshield wipers, rear-view camera, auto-mute, power max function etc.) can be assigned to a shortcut button on the joystick.

Volvo CE say their real-time service alerts help promote good service and maintenance routines. Diagnostic check alerts, for example, are displayed on the colour monitor for the engine oil filter, fuel-water separator and hydraulic oil/filter.

Hydraulic check valves fitted to the boom and dipper cylinders come as standard on the EC140E and EC220E units, as does the hammer/shear X1 circuit. The single layer cooling system is easily accessed from ground level by opening the side door. The radiator, charged air cooler and hydraulic oil cooler are situated side-by-side to optimize efficiency, reduce blockages and aid cleaning.