Maclennan Contracts of Balquhidder, Central Scotland recently took delivery of a new Volvo EC140EL, a move that is “returning significant fuel savings” according to owner, Alasdair Maclennan.
“So far we’ve been really impressed with the machine’s fuel consumption,” said Alasdair, whose company specialises in general groundworks, earthmoving and forestry road and track maintenance.
“We are currently working on a large hydro scheme near Crianlarich re-instating verges on the site’s access roads and the machine is returning a mere 5.1 litres an hour.”
The fourteen tonne EC140EL “features a Tier IV final 4 litre Volvo engine developing 121 net horsepower. 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 and ECO mode is a new feature that works in G to H (or P) mode.
“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. Eco mode provides better fuel efficiency without loss of performance in most operating conditions”, according to a spokesperson.
It also features an adjustable LCD colour monitor that provides real time information of the machine functions, diagnostic information and a wide variety of work tool settings. The monitor also doubles as a monitor for the rear view camera. Hammer / shear hydraulics are offered as standard, as are hose rupture valves on the boom and dipper cylinders.
Kevin Donald, who operates the EC140EL on behalf of Alasdair, said, “There’s a huge improvement to the cab on this latest version in terms of visibility, seat comfort, climate control and not to forget, the Bluetooth connectivity.
“This is mirrored by the excellent performance of the machine – I cannot fault it. The machine is well balanced, has a fantastic tractive effort and a smooth digging action.”
