Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has introduced its new upgraded 35-ton (t) ECR355 short swing radius excavator, which is designed to better handle jobs in construction and utility installation.
The ECR355 is built to operate in limited work areas and can handle tasks that require lifting. It reduces cycle times and provides more precise movements when used for trenching and backfilling.
According to the company, the excavator also uses less fuel than previous models, offers higher lifting capability, and includes features aimed at improving comfort for operators.
Specifically, the ECR355 achieves up to 7% greater fuel efficiency over its predecessor, said Volvo CE.
This improvement stems from a new electrohydraulic control system and a redesigned main control valve, which use electronic sensors and an onboard computer to optimise hydraulic flow and pressure.
Features such as electric cooling fans operate only when required, further reducing engine workload and fuel usage.
Additional technologies on board include new engine work modes, hydraulic priority setting, 'Comfort Driving Control', and automatic engine shutdown, which aim to lower operational costs and maximise equipment uptime.
In terms of lifting ability, the ECR355 provides a 7% increase in capacity alongside a 4% increase in tractive force when compared with earlier models.
The integration of Volvo’s Active Control system automates boom and bucket movements to accelerate grading tasks by up to 45%, lowering the time spent on reworking sites, explained the company.
Supported by Dig Assist applications and integrated boundary limit systems, operators can carry out both 2D and 3D machine control operations with higher precision and efficiency.
Serviceability remains central to the ECR355’s design, noted the company. Engine oil changes are required at intervals of 1,000 hours while hydraulic oil changes occur every 3,000 hours - synchronised in 1,000-hour increments for simplified maintenance.
Essential components are grouped for ease of access at ground level; quick-drain ports further reduce downtime during servicing.
Volvo CE global product manager Jaesu Kim said: “When designing any new product, we wanted to keep the interest of our operators at heart. The improved productivity within the ECR355 creates an unrivalled comfortable working environment across long shifts.”
Volvo said its Smart View system employs panoramic cameras combined with radar technology for on-site obstacle detection.
Operators can also receive machine health information via CareTrack telematics and ActiveCare 24/7 systems which supply predictive maintenance alerts.
Cabin features support operator comfort with a full-size conventional cab that offers 20% more space compared with other short swing models from Volvo CE.
Precision joystick controls and an ergonomic switch configuration permit customisation while new electric travel pedals respond rapidly to input.
Safety features include a tiltable left console and handrails to assist with cab access. A lifetime warranty covers the frame, boom, and arm on all standard excavators such as the ECR355, mentioned the company.
Kim added: “Inside the cab, operators will also find 50% better in-cab cooling performance, reduced noise levels due to new electric fans, and a host of modern conveniences, including Bluetooth connectivity, wireless phone charging, extensive storage solutions, and a two-stage filtration system for cleaner air.”
