This idea was then taken to another level with the development of a system to enable hydraulic work tools to be connected automatically from the cab, once again meaning the operator has no need to get out too push home conventional pipe based hydraulic coupling’s. It was 1993 before the first product was officially launched into the market place, attached below a Rototilt attachment, but the rest as they say is history.

Soneruds Maskin AB changed their name to Oil Quick AB in 2002 having celebrated their 50^th anniversary. Today the company has a complete range of patented Oil Quick coupler systems which are suitable for excavators, wheeled loaders and forklift trucks.

During the demonstration I witnessed at Bauma in 2010, young but incredibly experienced demo operator Jonni Lundgren from Sweden, put the Oil Quick unit which was fitted below an Engcon tiltrotator, through its paces on the Hitachi stand. Choosing various work tools and demonstrating how easy it makes life for the operator and how much faster work can be completed.

The video further shows how, with the correct selection of work tools, one machine can take on a variety of roles on the job and in some cases can eliminate the need for other machines.       

The system also offers up to 20% more stability when sat on a 15⁰ gradient, which can be very important, especially when slewing the upper body of the excavator. This also makes it a more comfortable experience for the operator who can still sit in his normal operating position without having to brace himself in the seat when slewing the machine downhill or uphill. The VDS option is available on 7 models from the Wacker Neuson range from 1.7t to 5t. 

Dumpers were also featured on the Wacker Neuson stand, with examples from the company’s recently announced 5 model tracked dumper range on display.

Also on show was a high discharge model, the likes of which seem to be very popular with small builders these days. The 1001 Hi Tip has a payload of 1000kg, and is powered by an economical 17kw/23.1hp Yanmar diesel engine. These dumpers are ideally suited for discharging their load into waste skips on smaller jobsites.

Around the corner at the Takeuchi stand were two examples of the company’s best sellers for the small tool and mini plant markets, the 1.5 ton TB016 and the micro 1tonne class TB108. Both machines were being displayed equipped with examples for the company’s hydraulic breaker range.

Of particular interest was the Japanese manufacturer’s latest super silent range of breakers, like this TKB72-S 120kg model which is designed to fit excavators from 1.5 ton to 2.7 tons. These new models feature an all new fully protected box type housing with internal sound suppression, high impact rate, a new narrow design and a more simple design generally with less parts which can only be a good thing in terms of maintenance. The breaker is fitted with a single lower tool bushing which again facilitates easier tool changing.

The smaller TKB52-S 80kg model is available to fit excavators from sub 1 ton to 1.5 ton.

A large and impressive stand awaited us at JCB, with a vast array of products on display, aimed at the small tool and plant hire markets. Centre stage was this micro plant combination of the 8008CTS micro excavator and the HTD-5 Dumpster tracked dumper. The 950kg/2094lb 8008CTS, which features the expanding track design for access through narrow doors and gateway’s, is powered by a class leading 9.2kw engine, and features the tubular boom design which is said to improve visibility, keep the weight down and also provides protection for the hoses which are routed through it. 

The perfect partner for the 8008CTs is the HTD-5 Dumpster, a compact walk behind high tipping tracked dumper, which features a 850mm undercarriage and is just 690mm wide, this again makes the machine ideal for back garden work or where access is difficult for larger machines. The HTD-5 has a carrying capacity of 500kg and can discharge its load at a height of 1450mm into a skip or high sided truck.

Also on show was the 8014CTS mini excavator, a model that is very popular with landscape industries and utility companies for its simple design and transportability.

Another star attraction on the JCB stand was the newly launched 155 ECO skid steer loader. This machine uses a radial lift version of the JCB Powerboom single-sided lift arm, which is said to provide the best digging capability and reach, combined with best in class fuel efficiency. A 46% larger cab is also fitted which features the full height side access door for maximum operator safety when mounting the machine. JCB also claim that the operator’s visibility is 60% better than competitors models.

Volvo Construction Equipment presented three machines on their stand, two mini excavators and a double drum roller. These are once again aimed at the small builder, landscape contractors, and utility markets. The EC15C 1.5 ton class mini excavator is a very popular product in the Volvo mini excavator portfolio, powered by a Volvo 11.9kw/16.2 hp low emission, water cooled engine which also meets the current Tier 4 environmental regulations.

As with the larger EC18C that was also displayed, the Volvo mini excavator range feature heavy duty and sturdy digging equipment, with both boom and arm ends which are made from cast steel, to offer maximum durability on the jobsite. Hydraulic hoses are protected, as is becoming the norm these days, by routing through the boom assembly, and further protective guards are fitted throughout to protect vital parts from damage.

These machines also feature automatic shifting when tracking at high speed, so when the going gets tough or you are performing dozing duties, they will automatically shift down to the slower travel speed to attain the optimal tractive force required. Another feature I like with the Volvo machines, is the built in brackets on the buckets to enable ease of transporting the machine and its spare buckets around. Rumour has it that Volvo are going to put on a fantastic display at Intermat in Paris, and if the display they put on at Bauma is anything to go by, then I am really looking forward to seeing that!

Leamington Spa based dumper manufacturer Thwaites displayed two examples from its legendary dumper range. A Hi Swivel 1 ton model, and an all new 2 ton Hi Swivel model. This latest dumper can lift a load to a height of 1.710m and swivel the skip, enabling easy distribution of its load into the average builders skip. The machine is economical too with its 3 cylinder Yanmar diesel engine. The machine also features Thwaites Kinglink design, which enables superior stability and traction at all times.

Last but not least, our friends from Shannon Plant (South West) were showing the latest applications for their Solo mini transporter range, some of which we reported about in a test drive feature here on the blog last year. The latest development is a front end loader attachment, which is yet another useful addition to the ever expanding range. Also on display were the Hi Tip dumper model and the fire hose carrier model, all of which are powered by the popular Briggs & Stratton Vanguard 16hp petrol engines and are remotely operated from an impressive distance of up to 200m.

Yet another highly successful event for the EHS team and we look forward to the 2013 show. The Digger Blog would like to thank the shows hard working PR guru, Louise Murphy, for the kind hospitality we were shown during our visit.

The machine arrived and I was immediately thrown in at the deep end as the low loader driver asked me to take the machine off for him. The low loader was facing downhill on a camber and it was raining so I figured it could be an interesting dismount. I was pleasantly surprised, and indeed somewhat relieved, with the smoothness and controllability of the tracking controls, and with minimal slippage on the wet bed of the trailer, I was soon on terra-firma.

I then familiarized myself with the cab and quickly found out that this was going to be a very pleasant place to spend a shift in. The major focal point in the cab is the dashboard cluster which is described as the nerve centre of the machine, complete with its multi-function 13cm (5 inch) colour screen and toggle switch.

By using this dynamic control centre the operator can access a wide choice of functions and checks, select power and work modes, check on maintenance status and even access instant diagnostics. By further accessing the menu, the operator can also fine tune and customise the machine to suit his own operating style, by either speeding up or slowing down the boom and dipper arm operations.

The cab is fully loaded with creature comforts for the operator with a stylish suspension seat, and fully adjustable arm rests and joysticks. A fully automatic air conditioning system further enhances the operating experience, as does the inclusion of a built in radio/MP3 player and the facility to connect your mobile phone to the system to enable hands free calling. All radio/MP3 and phone call functions are operated from a remote panel to the operator’s right hand side. The inclusion of a USB port also makes it possible for the operator to watch movies or view photos during break times through the LCD screen!

I put the machine to work on a massive spoil stockpile which has been formed from the excavated material from the road and drainage works on the site so far, levelling off and forming a safety bund around the top to prevent dumpers going off the edge. There are 3 work modes including economy, standard and power, like most operators from the old school I always tend to opt for the full power mode. The machine was very fast and incredibly smooth in operation. I found it to have plenty of digging and pushing power when levelling out the dumped material and if the load became heavy I found a quick press on the power boost button gave the machine that extra bit of power.

The machine was also very nice to grade with, which is of course one of the most important features on any excavator, and in my opinion can make or a break a machines success. The boom/arm movement remained fluid right through the entire stroke with no sign of cavitation. This demonstration model was fitted with a 2.5m dipper arm, but the UK preferred 3m option is normally offered as standard, which is especially useful when working on housing sites and enables the much needed reach across oversites when excavating for internal drainage and placing floor beams etc.

The 13,980kg Hyundai R140-9 is powered by a Mitsubishi D04FD-TAA four cylinder engine which produces 89kw/121hp and for such a small looking engine is incredibly powerful, but is also extremely quiet even when running at maximum power.

The next operator to test drive the machine was rather more critical, suggesting that in certain aspects the Hyundai was not competing with MJL Contractors current fleet of 14 ton sized Doosan machines. He suggested that the tracks were too short? In answer to that criticism it was pointed out that the Hyundai track length is only a minimal 5mm shorter.

The operator’s concerns and doubts about the machines power were also explained.

The Hyundai machine has 20hp more than the six cylinder Doosan offering and that fact was also reflected in the Hyundai’s bucket breakout force which is rated at 110kn (Doosan 103kn) and an arm breakout force of 62.8kn (Doosan 55kn).

As I see it, more power from a smaller engine for less fuel burnt, has to be a good result for any company in today’s tough economic climate.

I was personally very pleased with the machines performance and if I was in the market for a 14 ton class machine, I would definitely consider one of the Korean machines. I am looking forward to seeing the latest Dash 9A series upgrade models when they get their official launch at Intermat in Paris this coming April.

The Digger Blog would like to thank Matt Lugg Managing Director of MJL Contractors Ltd and Luke Mercer from the Molson Group for their assistance with this test drive event.

The JCB engines will be fitted specifically into the following models: 11 tonne JS115, 13 tonne JS130, 15 tonne JS145, 16 tonne JS160, and the 18 tonne JS180. In addition, the wheeled variants JS145W and JS160W will also be fitted with the 4.4 litre Dieselmax engine, which is replacing the previous Isuzu units.

Sadly the Digger Blog didn’t make it out to the launch on this occasion but I have come across this video which shows models from the new range being displayed in some rather unseasonal weather in Spain. 

As mentioned previously, a brand new cab has been introduced across the new range, which features an important change to the front windscreen. It is now a 70/30 split screen with the bottom section of glass now 125mm lower which helps to improve the operator’s view of the digging area. This was a direct response to customer feedback. Flat glass is now being fitted into the front screen as opposed to the earlier curved glass. This makes for easier replacement and in my opinion improves visibility as I have always found the curved glass can often distort your view of the ground. Other cab improvements include a new windscreen wiper arrangement and a more spacious storage area behind the operator’s seat.

I am looking forward to taking a closer look at this new look JS range when they are displayed at Intermat, this coming April in Paris.

The machine was soon recovered with a little help from the New Holland machine, no damage was reported and only slight embarrassment for the operator whom we believe was called Roger.

Don’t forget if you have any photos of a similar nature we want to see them here on the Digger Blog.

One of the only working demo plots that managed to go ahead due to weather conditions was the New Holland E215C digging plot, where Doug’s replacement in the seat these days, Martin Bourbonneux, seen below with Doug, was putting the 21 ton machine through its paces.

Ernest Doe is one of the longest running UK dealerships for Hyundai construction equipment and models from the company’s latest Dash-9 range were well represented, including the new 6 ton class R60CR, and 8 ton class R80CR, compact radius midi excavators.

Also on display was a brand new Hyundai 210-9, which was fully sign written and ready for delivery to J. T Few Plant Hire Ltd from Great Blakenham, Ipswich, who this year are celebrating 25 years in business.

Thanks go to Doug for sharing these photos with us here on Digger.

Lookout for my dig-in report on the Hyundai 140LC-9, coming soon on the Digger Blog.

The company was originally founded by Michaels grandfather, who had emigrated from Italy to America in the early 1900’s. The business was then successfully managed by Michael’s father until he passed away in 1970, at which time Michael took over the seat for a further 5 years. Michael described the business as being very well known and successful in its niche market, but pretty straight forward in its operation.

From the early 1950’s, the company exclusively ran International Harvester equipment, primarily being track shovels and dozers, which back in those days were often the primary tools of choice for muckshifting and digging operations. In this shot taken around 1953, we see an International TD14A in action in the famous Bronx area.

Working in conjunction with the tracked shovels were a fleet of Mack tipping trucks, which were used to transport away the excavated materials.

I believe the company was also involved in some aspects of road building too, as this photo shows one of the company’s International TD14A dozers at work in New York during construction of the Cross Bronx Expressway in 1952.

The company also had its own machinery transport which in the 1950’s was an Autocar single axle tractor unit and lowboy trailer, which can be seen in the background of this shot having delivered this Cat D6 dozer to a site.

One very interesting note about the company’s history, is the fact that in 1961, they excavated for the American Museum of Immigration, which is located at the base of the Statue of Liberty in New York.

I would like to thank Michael Palma for sending in these classic photos, which I am sure you will agree are simply stunning!

Also on display were other examples of the mini excavator range, including the Vio17 Universal and the micro SV08, which was displayed with its bucket in the skip of a Cormidi tracked dumper, which looked resplendent in its Ammann yellow paint work.

Over at the Doosan Infracore stand, there was a nice example from the Bobcat brand, in the shape of the E26 compact mini excavator, which once again is another zero tail swing machine with an operating weight of 2,695kg. The machine certainly looked like a well engineered piece of kit.

Talking of quality engineering it was good to see the latest hydraulic quick coupler from Geith, which is designed to fit mini excavators from 2 – 4 tons. Featuring many of the designs that have been so popular on the larger Geith quick hitches over the years, including the front safety lock, which retains the attachment in case of misconnection, and the safety seat, which is the secondary safety feature and is backed up by two powerful springs which retains the attachment rear pin in case of a cylinder failure.

Rollers now with a visit to the Bomag Fayat Group stand. There cannot be many sites going where you don’t see a Bomag roller in action at some point during the contract, they seem to have been a dominant force in compaction equipment for as long as I can remember. The company displayed one of its latest models from the Dash-5 generation of light tandem rollers, the BW80-5, which was making its very first appearance at the Executive Hire Show.

Finally in part one of our look at the plant & machinery highlights, we take a look at some of the latest machines from Finnish company Avant Techno. The Avant 630 compact loader is an example from the recently introduced and revised 600 series of machines, and features the new spacious DLX cab which is designed to enhance the operator’s environment. The 1,350 Kg machine is powered by a 28hp diesel engine, has a lift height of 2.8m and a top speed of 17km/h.

One of the company’s smaller offerings was also displayed, in the form of the Avant 220, a rear wheel steer 4 wheel dive compact loader/tool carrier which was equipped with a snow clearing blade and towable salt distribution hopper behind it. Very appropriate when one considers the weather some areas of the country has been suffering recently!

I will continue our look around the Executive Hire Show in part two, with a few little treats in store including a new silent range of breakers from Takeuchi.  

Chris wasn’t sure who it was owned by, but it might possibly be one of the environment agency’s machines?

If any readers spot something unusual on their travels we want to hear about it here on the blog, so why not drop me a line with your photos and see your material live here on Digger. And don't forget you can find us on Facebook and Twitter too.

Harry recalls that his first machine was an International BTD6 tracked loader, after which he progressed onto an International 150 and the larger 175 model, all of which were equipped Power Fork root forks. The BTD6 is seen here in this old poor quality shot.

As time went by Harry started doing land clearance work for private estates, housing developers and the MOD, which in those days were apparently known as the PSA (public service agency). During this time he performed general clearance works but also purchased loads of round timber which he extracted and then transported for milling.

By this time he was also running a Fiat Allis FL6 tracked loader, a Track Marshall 70 dozer and a Fordson Major tractor fitted with a Cooks 10 ton 2 speed winch.

In later years Harry ran mostly Caterpillar machines, including 941, 951A, 955K and 955L tracked loaders which were all fitted with 4 in 1 buckets and root forks which could be fitted as required. Also at this time Harry was running Caterpillar D4 dozers which were equipped with Hyster hydraulic winches, as well as a couple of Fordson Major tractors, and a Ford 5000 tractor all of which were equipped with Boughton 10 ton winches.  

In this shot we see a young Neil Grainger alongside his father’s 955K tracked shovel with another type of cat looking on!

Towards the mid 1970’s Harry’s company also took on a bit of demolition work, which ran alongside the land clearance and forestry work for which he purchased a Hymac 580 machine. Harry couldn’t quite remember if it was a BT or a C model but from this photo I would say it was probably a 580C machine.

During this period Harry also ran a Massey Ferguson 40 backhoe loader.

Harry finally packed up in business in 1985 due to a heart attack, sadly an all too familiar circumstance among businessmen, but he still kept one Caterpillar 951A tracked loader just in case! That classic old machine got put to good use to clear up the local park following the great storm of 1987 but after that the machine was sold and Harry finally retired.

Harry will be 74 this coming April and these days puts his time to good use with his restored Massey Ferguson 135 and watching his son Neil doing his thing with his mini digger hire and plant operating business, Always Digging.

The Digger Blog would like to thank Harry & Neil for sharing these memories with us and we wish Harry all the very best for the future.

“We didn’t just re-order another Volvo,” comments quarry manager Dave Roberts. “We looked very carefully at the market place and comparing like with like it was a close run thing, but we finally opted on the product we know best and that has proved itself over time coupled to the projected lifetime running costs,” he continued.

The new Volvo L180G features a 13 litre Tier IIIB compliant 333hp engine, optishift transmission and axles all designed and manufactured by Volvo and features a full turn tipping load of 17.2 tonnes anda 20% increase in lifting force and 10% increase in breakout force over its predecessor. This coupled to the engine output with high torque at low engine rpm has resulted in faster cycle times and increased productivity.  Two stronger, variable displacement load-bearing axial piston pumps and hoses have been introduced to handle the increased pressures.  These provide superior control of the load and attachments, as well as high breakout force, faster lifting and tilt functions.  A new hydraulic cooling system has been designed to reduce the working temperatures by up to 20^oC over the F series model.

Morris & Perry Ltd is a family owned independent quarrying company located in the heart of the Mendips. Quarrying at Gurney Slade is recorded as far back as the middle of the 19^th century and in more recent times the company has incorporated an asphalt plant and a concrete batching plant servicing the immediate vicinity, Somerset, Wiltshire & Dorset. 

The machine is fitted with the side mounted JCB engine and encompasses well proven and reliable JCB axles and transmission. There are two power source options available for this model, comprising of 74.2kw (100hp) or 93kw (125hp) JCB engines.

The JCB 540-170 is the first JCB telehandler to feature a four stage telescopic boom. This fitment enables the machine to offer an impressive forward reach of 12.5 metres and a maximum lift height of 16.7 metres. Lift capacity is rated at 4.0 tonnes with lift capacity at full reach rated at 0.6 tonnes

This machine has a whole host of user friendly innovations, including chassis levelling as standard and hydraulically operated side shift forks, which eliminates the need for the operator to leave the cab to shift the forks manually.

The addition of heavy duty stabilisers give the machine a firm footing when placing loads at height and distance and the chassis levelling is also useful when crossing uneven ground with loose loads and other bulky items that are so often encountered on building sites.

Barratt Homes forklift operator is more than pleased with his latest mount, commenting on the high level of spec in the cab which includes, full air conditioning, comfortable fully adjustable suspension seat and ergonomically positioned controls as well as the excellent all round vision.

The machine is also put to good use during quieter times by coupling up to a hydraulically operated road sweeper, which is extremely useful for keeping the mud off the road, in what is an area of outstanding natural beauty.  

Fork Rent is one of the UK’s largest privately owned plant hire companies, and the latest deal to purchase a further 600 machines, comes hot on the heels of its purchase of over 1,000 JCB telehandlers over the past two years – bringing the Ipswich based firm’s tally of JCB machines purchases past the 4,000 milestone figure.

Pictured above Fork Rent owners Guy and Trudi Nicholls and (right) Elaine Miller, the company’s Operations Director with examples from the firms impressive JCB fleet.

Runners up prize of a VIP Visitor JCB baseball cab goes to ... Laura (Loz) Birch of Mark Stubbs Contrators in Stafford, Staffordshire.

A massive thank you to all who took part in this latest competition. Look out for more over the coming months here on the Digger Blog

My initial thoughts were, oh dear, this is going to be something else for the operator to have to think about all day, as if thinking about general machine maintenance, dig depths, grades, underground services, and surrounding personnel who are not always machine aware, isn’t enough! But as you will see in this video, it is really very easy and uncomplicated to deal with. And of course, we all need to be doing our bit to save the environment for our future generations to come.

 I have had a lot of contact from readers asking for more information on the regeneration topic. I hope this video has helped to answer many of the questions which were posed.

First up is one of the all time favourites from Caterpillar, the 1960’s & early 70’s classic, the D9G track type tractor. The D9 was originally introduced in 1955 and was upgraded through various guises. Boasting a 385 horsepower engine, the D9G remained in production until 1974.The example in this photo shot by Luke, although appearing to be in good condition, looks as if it hasn’t moved for some time.

Talking of classics, here’s another famous machine, this time from the UK, the Hymac 580C was at the backbone of many contractors’ fleets back in the day. From 1964 to 1987, over 10,000 models of the 580 were built at the company’s manufacturing facility in Rhymney, South Wales. These machines still have a cult following today, with many good restorations to be found. In many instances they are still put to good use on a daily basis on farms and small build projects. This one, spotted by Luke whilst out and about, still looks in good condition. It would be good to find out if she is still a runner.

Check out this old girl lying in the bushes looking very sorry for itself, this looks like an International Harvester B100 crawler loader, but I can’t be sure of its positive identification from this photo.

Here’s a JCB 800 series model in an unfamiliar red & white livery, looks as if it could be an 805B Turbo with the “powerslide” boom arrangement. That was a very handy set up especially when working in amongst houses. I have never understood why it never took off with other manufacturers. If memory serves me right, French manufacturer Poclain, did produce a fully hydraulic version at one point.

Here are two shots of a Hanomag 450ELC hydraulic excavator, at the time this machine would have been manufactured around 1980 to 1983. Hanomag was owned by the IBH group, which later collapsed in 1984. This machine was Hanomag designed but based on the old Massey Ferguson excavators.

If you look closely at this photo you can still see the dealership name of Kellands Ltd., on the side of the machine.

Now here is a sight to break any Hymac fans heart. Yet another 580C arrives for a date with the gas axe at a scrap yard. It’s sad to see so many of these once iconic old machines going this way. Yes they were very basic, and one of the reasons I am partially deaf in one ear these days! But I loved to operate them and of course back in those days, we didn’t know any different!

And in the same vain surely, this old JCB 3CII has reached the end of the line, sad to think that this machine was once someone’s pride and joy on site.

This Case 450 is barely recognisable in the overgrowth. I am told by older generation operators, that these were pretty good machines in their day and would be interested to hear readers thoughts on them on the blog.

And finally in this batch, here is really rare machine! It’s an International tractor and front loader, which has a Wainroy backhoe fitted to it. It’s hard to believe that you could actually dig anything with that fragile looking backend on it. But hopefully someone will tell us that they did in the not too distant future!

We thank Luke Finney for sharing his photos with us here on the Digger Blog.

The job, which involved digging out and shaping a pond, has been very challenging in terms of ground conditions, and it was heartbreaking to send the new machine into such boggy conditions, with the mud often totally engulfing the tracks, but the job is now well on the way to completion and so far Tony has been delighted with his latest acquisition.

Speaking about his latest machine Tony said, “I initially chose the JS130 because of its availability, as there is a shortage of good quality low houred machines, I decided to give the JCB a go. Bonds have looked after me well, with a lot of my machines having been bought from them, so I had no hesitation in dealing with them again”

Tony continued, “The JS 130 fitted with the Isuzu engine is excellent on fuel, and with the rising price of diesel that is a real bonus. So far I have been very impressed with the machines overall smoothness of operation and positivity in the tracking movements. I also like the fact that it has the 3 speed tracking button on the right hand joystick which is a useful addition, this one also has air-con fitted which I believe is not a standard option on this size JCB machine. If I could add one thing to the cab fittings, it would be a radio mute button on the left hand joystick.”

The machine has also been fitted with rubber street pads, which will enable him to be more flexible as to the type of work he takes on for the machine. Tony does a lot of work for another Liskeard based company, WBM Groundworks Ltd, who are very active on major road works contracts and infrastructure projects in the South West, the addition of the rubber street pads will be invaluable on that type of work.

The JCB adds yet another element to the fleet, which currently consists of a Volvo BL71 Plus backhoe loader, Case CX22B mini excavator, Volvo EC15B mini excavator, Kubota KX71-2 mini excavator, Thwaites 1 ton high lift dumper and a Benford 3 ton dumper. The company can also supply CPCS accredited  plant operators throughout the South West on a daily, weekly or long contract basis.

Joining a mixed fleet of equipment including mini excavators, & 20 tonne excavators and backhoe loaders the relatively new EC27C replaces the previous EC25 and EC30 models. Powered by a Volvo 1.6 litre low emission Tier III the machine delivers the performance in the range of the previous Volvo EC30 – yet with a compact design reminiscent of the smaller EC25.

The conventional excavator design provides exceptional stability along with minimal superstructure swing. Simultaneous control of slew and offset movements provides faster, more precise performance due to the right joystick control lever that features an electronically proportional roller.

This allows the operator to accurately adjust hydraulic flow as needed. All hydraulic functions are performed in total independence for more control and less delay when handling multiple tasks. An automatic two-speed travel system engages when operating in high speed mode, automatically shifting gear from high to low according to the travel load. Another feature for increased efficiency is the standard auto-idling system that lowers engine speed to idle if a control is not used for five seconds. The engine reverts to the pre-selected speed almost instantly when any control is moved. This system delivers lower fuel consumption, longer engine life and less environmental noise.

The EC27C features Volvo’s industry-leading comfortable cab for less fatigue and more production. The ergonomically-designed cab offers greater leg and foot room, making it one of the most spacious in its category. Optional air conditioning with an included heater is also available, for year-round productivity in hot, humid or cold climates.

H Dunstan & Sons offers a general contracting service along with some operated plant hire throughout Cornwall, specialising in sub-contracting to larger contracts involved in the refurbishment and repair of local authority facilities.

Plant & Engineering Services of Beare near Exeter Ltd is the dealer for Volvo utility covering the south west of England. As a customer and friend of the team at PES, I can't praise them enough, very helpful and nice people to do business with. And great supporters of the Digger Blog too!

The machine proved to be incredibly popular with sand and gravel extraction industries, river maintenance authorities and companies working in very soft ground conditions where long reach and low ground pressure was essential. As the model number suggests, the VC15 could reach out a full 15m (50ft) using its powerful two- way hydraulic winch to move the arm back and forth. The addition of a cranked boom arrangement allowed the VC15 to attain a dig depth of 9m (30ft).

This model was joined by the larger and longer reaching VC20 in 1984, which could carry bucket capacities of up to 1.5 cubic metres (2 cu yds). Like the model seen in this photo from the period post 1985, when Priestmans had been taken over by the  Sanderson Group, working for the Witham Fourth District Drainage Board in Lincolnshire, England.

Many of these machines were also fitted with Priestmans specialist “Bogmaster” low ground pressure undercarriage, which were said to reduce overall ground bearing pressure on the VC15 for example to only 0.2kg/cm2 (2.8 ib/in2) enabling it to work in swamps and marginal land quite easily.

Around 1987 the Sanderson Group had started development work on a VC30 model, with I believe one prototype model being produced for evaluation purposes. Sadly the Sanderson Group got into financial difficulties in the early 1990’s and at that time the Priestman side of the operation was sold onto RB Cranes.

There are still a number of these old machines still putting in a good days work around the globe, but with the rapid advance in long reach hydraulic excavator technology one has to conclude that their days must now be numbered.

Thanks must go to my friend, Priestman expert and ex Priestman employee, Bill Bromwich, for some of the information and the VC15 brochure cover.

Here’s a flavour of the action from the last Intermat event which took place in 2009.

With over 1,470 exhibitors, 67% of whom are International and an expected international visitor influx of over 200,000, it promises to be a fantastic event.

Anyone who is anyone in the plant & machinery world will be attending the show and the Digger Blog will be covering the exhibition on our return from Paris. In the coming weeks however, I will be looking at some of the latest products that are being launched in a series of posts. So keep your eyes peeled to the Digger Blog.