Commenting on the recently purchased ECR145E, Owner Will Powell explains; “Typically for the majority of work we do in woods, forests and private estates, I need the compactness of the reduced swing machine.
I’ve owned and operated Volvo reduced swing excavators since they were introduced back in 2004. Originally I had an ECR145D, then the larger ECR235D, both fitted with Steelwrist tilt rotators,” says Will. “As an owner operator, machine reliability is paramount, and all of my previous Volvos have been extremely reliable and productive, which is why I chose another Volvo for the business,” he continues.
Once again, Will has added a Steelwrist tilt rotator to the new ECR145E, together with a selection of attachments which include: pallet forks, grading and digging buckets, tree grapple, shear, ripper tooth, a screener, an asphalt cutter and a grading beam.
“The machine has plenty of reach, and is correctly balanced to handle the tilt rotator and all the attachments,” says Will Powell. “Yes this is a significant investment, but the combination of the machine and Steelwrist tilt rotator together with the end attachments significantly improves productivity onsite and, in my experience, pays dividends in a relatively short period of time,” he concludes.
The 17 tonne ECR145E has been supplied complete with a factory fitted dozer blade – ideal for pushing and clearing undergrowth and tree debris when working in woods and forests. The machine also features an additional hydraulic circuit for grab rotation and proportional hydraulic control for precise handling. To prevent ground damage, the machine is further enhanced with the fitting of 700mm duraline rubber blocks that clip onto the standard steel track pads.
Equipped with a Stage V 4 litre Volvo engine, producing 121 hp, the ECR145E operates in conjunction with an advanced mode control system, ensuring the maximum possible hydraulic horsepower is delivered at a constant engine speed under varying load conditions. With a 4.6m monobloc boom and 3m dipper arm, the maximum reach is a generous 8.86m. Dig depth measures at 6m and practical load over height equals 6.87m. The lifting capacity across carriage at full reach is an impressive 1.8 tonnes, and the maximum breakout force measures at a massive 85.4kN.
Established in 1987, Powell Groundworks is based in Reigate, Surrey, and has built up an excellent reputation for forestry works, general groundworks and landscaping contracts. The company specialises in the construction and maintenance of lakes and ponds, but also undertakes unique projects on behalf of the National Trust. Powell Groundwork’s new addition joins an existing Volvo ECR88 reduced swing compact excavator.
