Volvo CE elevates demolition with new high reach excavators

Volvo Construction Equipment is rolling out its new generation high reach excavators to raise the bar on strength, productivity and operator comfort across demolition applications.

The new EC400 High Reach and EC500 High Reach excavators replace the previous generation EC380EHR and EC480EHR models. The machines have been updated with a fresh design and equipped with the latest innovations from Volvo. 

“We are committed to producing the ultimate in heavy-duty demolition machinery. These new models have been designed to efficiently respond to customer needs, which we found out after talking to many customers and operators all over the world – and because we make our own machines from start to finish, every detail has been carefully considered and improved to ensure the best possible performance,” said Martijn Donkersloot, Volvo CE’s Product Manager for Demolition Equipment. 

As part of the new update, the high reach excavators deliver a 15 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency due to engine pump optimization, better ground level access and longer service intervals, more precise controls and a quieter working environment.

Thanks to the Smart View with optional Obstacle Detection, the working environment is safer for operators and other on-site workers too. 

Engineering updates

On top of the modern advantages of the new generation design, the new excavators include several engineering updates specific to high reach machines.

These include a prolonged working range brought about by an extension boom concept, which offers greater variation in which the equipment is put to work, and by the machines’ structure and hydraulic system, which have been optimized to carry heavy attachments.

More news from Volvo CE:

• Nors acquires Volvo CE-related assets of Westcon Equipment
• Volvo modernizes its straight boom excavators
• Volvo CE’s new excavator series now includes eight machines

As well, Volvo CE optimized the hydraulic lines for demolition. Through the increase in size of the X1 return line, back pressure of the attachment is reduced, while a dedicated drain line for the attachment improves oil leak rates from the rotating motor-attachment. 

Demolition Assist

The tailor-made Demolition Assist tool provides visual and audible alerts on working range and stability information for demolition configurations, while an HD integrated front view camera display ensures maximized productivity and operator comfort. With Demolition Assist, Volvo CE has future-proofed the machine for possible new functionalities that decommissioning machine owners might need in the future. 

The purpose-built cab also offers optimum visibility for high reach demolition work, while the scratch-resistant, one-piece, P5A classified, front window and the reinforced roof window are both easily cleaned with a wiper system for each. 

The machine is ergonomically improved due to increased functionality in the control levers, for example, the optional Comfort Drive Control, tilting function for the cab and numerous smart switches.

Setting a high bar 

Volvo high reach excavators are built to ensure maximum safety in all demolition applications. A sturdy frame and cab offer protection against falling debris, while a high visibility cab and carefully placed cameras ensure excellent stability and safety.

A robust structure, great stability, even with heavy tool weight, and outstanding hydraulics ensure a strong performance in tough demolition projects. 

The electro-hydraulic system uses intelligent technology to offer accurate controllability, high productivity and excellent fuel economy, while a hands-on tilt function and ergonomic controls simplify operation.

A clever attachment management system stores the settings for up to 20 different hydraulic attachments. Furthermore, it is also easy to change from an ultra-high reach boom to a standard digging configuration, so the excavator can remain busy even outside of high-reach tasks.