Volvo launches EC480E crawler excavator: high power, low fuel use

Updated Aug 21, 2014

Volvo engine

Volvo has launched its new EC480E crawler excavator which features a Tier 4 Final D13 engine. Designed for quarry and mass excavating jobs, the machine provides high digging and breakout forces while delivering fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

The electro-hydraulics system provides on-demand flow while reducing power loss. The excavator features Volvo’s ECO mode, which improves both fuel efficiency and controllability. The machine’s work mode system offers the operator a choice of idle, fine, general and heavy modes, and the excavator can be programmed to automatically reduce engine speed or shut down when the controls are inactive for a predetermined time.

The EC480E has a three-piece undercarriage and high tensile steel X-shaped frame to ensure long machine life, and superstructure cover plates under the excavator protect the machine from damage from rock and debris. A hydraulically-driven electrically controlled cooling fan prevents the machine from overheating while minimizing fuel consumption and noise. Reverse functionality, which blows air in the opposite direction for self-cleaning, is available as an option.

Daily preventive maintenance is simplified via the placement of grouped service points and large, easily accessible doors. The excavator’s radiator, charged air cooler and hydraulic air cooler are located side by side to make cleaning easy and reduce blockage.

The EC480E features ergonomically friendly joysticks, keypad and LCD monitor, as well as a reduced number of switches compared to previous models. Safety features include a seat belt warning alarm that sounds if the operator’s seat belt is not fastened when the ignition key is turned. The machine has anti-slip plates and full size guardrails and handrails to ensure safe cab entry and exit.