AN Argyll-based civil engineering and quarry specialist has snapped up its first ever Volvo excavator in the form of the 30-tonne EC300E.
A&L McCrae of Whitehouse will utilise the machine on hard rock contract crushing projects. The model was chosen after the firm was impressed with a Volvo 960 motor grader and two A30G articulated haulers purchased in 2018.
“We’ve been very satisfied with the reliability of our Volvo grader and haulers, which is essential when they are working in really remote areas,” said Calum McCrae, whose parents founded the business 40 years ago. “We have a diverse range of clients. Our contracts can vary from routine road maintenance, to full-scale road construction. So operating machines that we can rely upon is crucial. Based on our experience with our existing Volvo equipment, we decided to opt for the 30-tonne EC300E, and we have a high expectation that it will perform in the same satisfactory manner.”
The machine boasts a six-cylinder Stage V compliant engine, developing 243hp. Modes include: I-idle, F-fine, G- general, H-heavy or P-power, with the machine designed to automatically set the appropriate engine speed for the selected work mode. The machine is also equipped with a new Eco mode that works in modes G, H or P.
The EC300E has been fitted with optional 600mm double grouser track pads. The machine will work alongside the two A30G haulers on projects throughout the west of Scotland, in addition to supporting activities at the family’s Barrachander Quarry.
