Capital Equipment News October 2017

EXCAVATORS

KEY TALKING POINTS

Electronic control of the engine and hydraulics are now fundamental in the designing of Volvo excavators.

Flexibility to easily accept a wide range of hydraulic attachments increases excavator versatility

MORE THAN A DIRT MOVER

Hydraulics, electronics, telematics, op- erator comfort and versatility are all at the centre of major feature upgrades on today’s excavators, making the prominent piece of equipment on many sites more than just a dirt mover. Increased versatility The basic nature of an excavator makes it versatile, thus increasing its productivity. But, attachments have become the key element in an excavator’s versatility. Key to this is the continued focus on improving coupling systems by OEMs to allow better handling of an array of attachments. “Most hydraulic operated attachments can now be fitted to our range of excavators without any need for modifications as the machines come factory fitted with two- way piping with foot-operated controls,” says Corne Coetzer, Product Manager: Kobelco Excavators at Bell Equipment. “Hydraulic flow can also be adjusted from inside the cab at the flick of a button. This alleviates the need for flow gauges and mechanical adjustments on the pump itself. This is now a standard feature on all of our machines up to, and including,

The hydraulic excavator continues to be one of the most prominent pieces of equipment on any earthmoving site. Continued innovations in hydraulics, electronics, telematics, operator comfort and increased flexibility to easily accept a wide range of hydraulic attachments, have combined to make the excavator more than just a dirt mover, writes Munesu Shoko

V alue is very significant to a consumer and getting the most for their buck is a key factor in influencing people’s buying habits. The same goes for construction equipment – getting the most out of machines is a key factor in today’s buying decisions. Based on this notion, the modern-day hydraulic excavator continues to evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of a market that is seeking increased productivity at the lowest cost per tonne of material moved.

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS OCTOBER 2017 6