EC530E and EC550E - the 50-ton excavators with ideas above their size class

Volvo CE doesn’t do things by half – when they enter a new size class of excavator they go straight for the top spot – producing the best in market at its first attempt. And not just one, Volvo CE is launching two 50-ton machines – the EC530E and EC550E – excavators born to excel in heavy duty digging, mass excavation and large-scale site preparation.

Delivering digging and lifting forces normally found in 60-ton machines, these two excavators feature the highest engine power in the class, providing high tractive force and swing torque. When coupled with large buckets, the EC530E and EC550E are perfectly suited to filling articulated haulers in the 30-40-ton class – requiring fewer passes to load them, thereby reducing cycle times. This combination can boost productivity by an impressive 20%.

These are 50-ton machines with all the characteristics of bigger equipment. A super-rigid reinforced undercarriage has the durability and strength normally associated with a 60-ton class excavator. This is supported by equally sturdy lower and upper frames. The EC550E undercarriage has a long and wide lower frame, giving it extra stability when working with heavier loads. The undercarriage on the EC530E, meanwhile shares the same transportation dimensions (and loading convenience) as Volvo’s 48-ton EC480E.

It is not just the undercarriage that’s tough – the boom and arm boast a larger pin size for added strength when the going gets tough.

IMVT unlocks 25% fuel efficiency gains

A low emission Volvo D13J engine may be the heart of the EC530E and EC550E, but combined fuel efficiency – of up to 25% – is enabled thanks to these machines’ use of the very latest electro hydraulics system. It achieves this due to Independent Metering Valve Technology (IMVT) which, thanks to intelligent electronic control offers both more precise operation and efficiency than a traditional mechanically coupled hydraulic system. Further efficiency is gained from engine pump optimization, which lowers engine speed while maintaining power, and improved hydraulic pipework layout. Put together, the EC530E and EC550E offer high levels of control and efficiency for all applications. The new system offers a range of smart functions, including creep mode (useful for precise lift-and-carry work) and optional Comfort Drive Control (CDC). CDC helps to reduce operator fatigue by allowing the excavator to be steered using the joystick rollers, instead of the pedals.

Operators can select several functions depending on the task at hand and their preferences. This includes boom/swing and boom/travel priority, which enables one function to take the lead over another. The boom-down speed can also be adjusted, giving optimum control for tasks that require extra precision. New boom-and-arm bouncing reduction technology lessens machine shock – a feature much appreciated by operators.

Dig Assist machine control applications

Operators are further assisted in their tasks by the optional Dig Assist apps – powered by the 10in. Volvo Co-Pilot tablet. These include 2D, In-Field Design and 3D software packages. On-Board Weighing is another useful feature, providing real-time information on bucket load (to ensure optimum fill) as well as recording material moved per pass, per shift or per day – providing invaluable productivity data.

Quality Volvo Attachments mean that you can get the maximum productivity out of your machine. Purpose-built examples include quick couplers, buckets, breakers, thumbs, shears, grapples etc. – all designed to work in harmony with the specifics of these machines.

Home away from home

The Volvo Care Cab is a great place to spend the work day. Getting on board is safe and easy, thanks to bolted anti-slip steps and high visibility handrails. For easier transportation, an optional entrance step and walkway can be folded away.

Once seated, operators enjoy both a low noise and low vibration environment, safe in the knowledge that the cab is protected by ROPS structure that exceeds industry standards for this weight class. They are also presented with best-in-class visibility, a benefit improved further if optioned with a one-piece front window. Technology also plays a part here, thanks to rear and side cameras, along with the all-round Volvo Smart View option, especially useful when working in confined locations.

Uptime a priority

The EC530E and EC550E have been designed with high durability and maximum reliability at their core – even when working in tough applications. Clever measures include the removal of hydraulic pilot lines, reducing the number of couplings needed. The electrical system is also now more robust, thanks to connectors that exceed the tough water ingress protection standards. Time and maintenance costs are further reduced, due to the engine oil and filter change intervals extended to 1,000 hours and ground-level access to grouped filters. A three-point right hand side access to the upper structure provides easy access to the UREA/DEF tank, which also features a splash guard to avoid spillages (and corrosion risk).

Volvo CE’s portfolio of Uptime Services is key to ensuring long term machine performance and profitability. Oil Analysis, Care Inspection, and Undercarriage Inspections help keep machines in top condition, while easy-to-read reports – powered by CareTrack telematics system – help owners track productivity, fuel efficiency, and machine condition. For even less hassle Volvo Uptime Centers can monitor the machine and notify customers if required. This service is called Volvo Active Care.

Question: when is a 50-ton excavator just like a 60-ton machine?
Answer: when it’s a Volvo EC530E and EC550E.