Volvo, a leading manufacturer of construction machinery, says that its new generation C-Series heavyweights – the EC460CL and EC700CL tracked excavators – are more than a match for the task in hand.

Focusing on high productivity, with more tonnes moved per hour and maximum uptime, Volvo’s new generation C-Series heavyweights are commonly competing in performance terms with excavators in heavier weight classes, a company spokesman says.
Weighing between 45.6 tonnes to 48.3 tonnes, the EC460CL’s strengths lie in general contracting, quarrying, large-scale bulk earthmoving and pipe laying. When fitted with the variable undercarriage option it moves up into a higher class, he says. At a maximum 51 tonnes in this configuration it will hold its own against competitive machines carrying 500 and 520 decals.
This is also true of the EC700CL, with operating performances more commonly found on 80-tonne class machines. Suited for mass excavation, production trenching, rock face stripping or mine loading, the EC700CL is capable of a powerful combination of high productivity and fuel efficiency, he adds.
Highlighting the salient features of the machines he continues: “Developing 320 hp for the EC460CL and a massive; 430 hp for the EC700CL, both machines feature Volvo’s advanced, Volvo V-ACT (Volvo Advanced Combustion) engines that offer high torque at low revs and deliver class leading fuel efficiency. The power plant is coupled with intelligent hydraulics that provide boom, arm and swing priority. In-cab, operator selectable hydraulic flow and pressure increases performance, especially when regularly changing attachments.”
“These new machines also feature a more rugged undercarriage and superstructure. Strengthened high tensile steel undercarriage frames absorb stress with rigid strength, while reliable, reinforced, doubled-welded booms and arms offer capacity, reach and force. Sealed-for-life, greased track link prevents leaks, reduces noise and ensures longevity. Protected hydraulic lines and bolt shields prevent collision damage.
“However tough the job, key to a productive day on the job site is operator comfort and here Volvo has the upper hand,” says the spokesman. “The latest, class-leading, Volvo ‘Care Cab’ fitted to the C-Series offers more comfort, more space, improved climate control (with 14 adjustable air vents), improved visibility – thanks to a more expansive glazed area – and controls that are easier to use.
“The enhanced suspension system surpasses emerging cab vibration requirements, reducing operator fatigue and whole body vibration. In-cab noise levels are also reduced thanks to the low revving engine, the improved cooling system and to the pressurised insulated cab itself, which blocks sound. A new, colour LCD display is easier to read even in very bright conditions and offers real time information,” he says.
In addition, servicing has been simplified with the new models, assisted by large service panels that offer ground level access for easy convenient, straightforward and safer inspection and servicing. Centralised lubrication points and long service intervals also reduce downtime. The in-cab, LCD monitor conducts a self-diagnostic check routine.

Convenience & assurance
Optional equipment available for both the EC460CL and EC700CL includes hydraulic kits to maximise machine performance, a choice of Quick Fits to speed attachment change, factory or dealer-fit FOG (falling object guard) and FOPS (falling object protective structure) cab protection, rear view camera, full length derailing shield and a wide range of operator seats. For ease of transportation, a hydraulically removable counterweight is also available, he says.
Commenting on the other advanced features, he says: “An on-board Matris system fitted to both the EC460CL and EC700CL can provide detailed operating history analysis, including machine utilisation and efficiency. Data captured inside the excavator’s computer can be turned into easy-to-understand graphs and reports on operating performance. These can be used to reduce maintenance costs and increase service life. When fitted with Volvo’s optional CareTrack GPS monitoring system, both machines’ location can be tracked remotely from a computer. Working with the onboard diagnostic system CareTrack also monitors fuel usage, hours of operation and productivity. Machine usage and location limits can also be set to prevent unauthorised use.”