Expands mid-range offerings with EC350E

The EC350E is designed to bridge the gap between Volvo's existing EC300E and EC380E. The 35-tonner is an ideal machine for general construction work. With an overall height of less than 4 m when loaded on a flatbed trailer, the crawler crane is also easy to transport without having to disassemble parts. In addition to optimal dimensions, the new Volvo can be adapted to a wide range of jobs in no time.

Operators can select multiple functions depending on tasks and their own preferences. For example, the operator can prioritize boom/swing movements or boom/drive. Boom lowering speed can also be adjusted, giving additional control for tasks requiring extreme precision, such as in demolition or when working with 3D GPS. Thanks to a range of matching (Volvo) attachments, any job can be done with optimum productivity, efficiency and performance.

Efficient and comfortable

Long working days are made less strenuous by dampening movements of the digging arm, reducing shock penetration into the cab. The Comfort Drive Control option also allows the operator to control the machine using the joystick instead of the travel pedals, which is less tiring. It is also possible to customize the push buttons on the joystick for the additional functions, making an additional shortcut available.

The optional Dig Assist app, controlled via the Volvo Co-Pilot tablet, provides additional support in the form of 2D GPS, In-Field Design, 3D software packages, On Board weighing and Volvo Active Control, which automates the movements of the digging arm and bucket, making digging twice as fast. Volvo Active Control also allows the swing, height and depth ranges to be limited. This helps avoid contact with obstacles, both above and below ground (think power lines or pipes, for example).

Economical and reliable

The new EC350E is powered by Volvo's D8M engine, which delivers 220 kW (299 hp) at 1,600 rpm and also guarantees high torque. By comparison, in 2014 the Swedish brand already introduced a 35-ton excavator with almost the same amount of power from a 12.8-liter D13J Stage IV engine. The Stage V version offers best-in-class fuel efficiency, according to Volvo, thanks to a combination of ECO mode, selectable working modes, intelligent electro-hydraulics, automatic idling and automatic engine stop.

Thanks to auto-regeneration technology, there is no need to stop the machine to clean the particulate filter. Furthermore, the hard-working turbochargers are carefully cooled through an (optional) delayed engine shutdown, which prevents overheating and thus increases the durability of the machine. Also contributing to the machine's reliability is the electro-hydraulic system, which requires fewer hoses and couplings than normal, minimizing maintenance. Maintenance costs are further reduced by an engine oil and filter change interval of 1,000 hours of operation, as well as access from the ground to grouped filters.

True powerhouse

The crawler crane is available with a narrow or wide (L version) undercarriage and weighs between 34,690 and 40,600 kg depending on the version. As standard, Benelux importer SMT equips the EC350E L with a 6.45 m long monoboom and a 3.2 m dipperstick. The machine thus achieves an excavation height of 11,123 mm and a maximum excavation depth of 7,490 mm. Over the flank, the 35-tonner can lift nearly 13.5 tons on a 6 m flight and 1.5 m height. The maximum breakout force is 219 kN and with Power Boost the machine delivers 192 kN of breakout force.

Combining versatility and efficiency with ease of operation and easy maintenance, the EC350E is designed to help customers gain maximum profitability from any construction project. Safety is paramount at Volvo in this regard. Visibility from the Care Cab cab is generous thanks to the low design of the upper structure and centrally located digging arm, which also gives the operator good visibility to the right. Rear and right cameras are standard, and the Volvo Smart View all-round camera system is available as an option. Access to the upper structure is facilitated by well-placed railings and bolt-on anti-slip steps.