Breaking with tradition, Bridgwater based BCL Groundworks Ltd has opted for four Volvo reduced swing excavators for the first time, having considered third-party recommendations and the package presented by SMT GB.
With its operating headquarters based at Bridgwater, Somerset, BCL Groundworks Ltd has broken with tradition and opted for three Volvo ECR145E and an ECR235E reduced swing excavators. “Operating zero or reduced swing excavators is our trademark and this time around we opted for the Volvo brand as we felt a change was necessary from our usual choice of machine,” explains Managing Director, Gary Caddick. “We liked the look and specification of the Volvo product and having taken into consideration third-party references as well as the input from our operators, we placed an order for three ECR145Es and the larger ECR235E,” he adds. “SMT demonstrated a professional approach in the negotiations which also impressed us, and the Volvo excavator product commands a high residual value, so the deal for the four machines was made.”
The mainstay of BCL Groundworks’ contracts lies in general groundworks having specialized in the commercial sector constructing schools, care homes, and civic amenities. More recently the company has moved into the general house construction market sub-contracting to blue chip housing development companies. “We offer a full site enabling service laying in sewerage, gas, electric and water, road access, footings and block work up to dpc level,” explains Gary. “Many, if not all, of the sites we work on are tight on space so the reduced swing capability of machines that have sufficient power, reach and optimum performance is essential.”
The 15.4 tonne ECR145E is equipped with a Stage-IV 4-litre Volvo engine producing 121 hp whilst its larger brother, the ECR235E, benefits from a 6-litre unit developing 174 hp. These operate in conjunction with an advanced mode control system ensuring the maximum possible hydraulic horsepower available is delivered at a constant engine speed under varying load conditions. Both machines have ample dig reach and depth as well impressive lifting capacities across carriage for their respective size classes and feature hammer/shear circuits, quick fit hydraulics and hose rupture valves fitted to both boom and dipper cylinders as standard. One of the ECR145Es ordered by BCL has been specified with the optional heavy duty dozer blade.
In addition, Gary Caddick has made full use of the features and benefits provided by CareTrack – Volvo’s telematics system – which is standard on the machines. Besides monitoring the overall performance, fuel consumption and the way each machine is being operated remotely, the company has each machine geo-fenced and time fenced which, according to Gary has made a positive impact on his insurance premiums. All four machines will be covered by a Blue Volvo service agreement ensuring they will be regularly maintained by Volvo trained service engineers using genuine Volvo parts.
Established in 2009, BCL Groundworks Ltd offers a complete and comprehensive groundworks package for commercial as well as house building projects throughout the south west of England having successfully completed a range of projects ranging in value from £100k to £6m for blue-chip major contractors.
SMT GB markets Volvo Construction Equipment products which include wheeled loaders, articulated haulers, hydraulic excavators, Volvo utility equipment and Volvo road equipment products in Great Britain. There are eight strategically placed Customer Support Centres, a dedicated National Used Equipment Centre and a network of utility equipment dealers to ensure high quality customer support is maintained throughout the country.
