Firm invests in JCB for cost-saving surfacing solution
A JCB compact tracked loader has joined forces with an innovative attachment to create a quicker and more efficient way of surfacing.
Supplied by dealer Watling JCB, Bedfordshire-based ECL Civil Engineering Ltd has bought the compact and manoeuvrable JCB 260 CTL specifically for surfacing narrow roads and paths.
They have increased the machine’s versatility by equipping it with a control and guidance system which automatically positions the dozer when moving over the ground.
As a result jobs can be completed much faster, less fuel is used and thanks to more accurate tolerances, spending on material is cut – leading to vastly improved efficiency levels.
ECL Civil Engineering Ltd Director, Sean Hoare said: “We chose the JCB 260T as the carrier machine for several reasons. Firstly, this is a new area for us, so we wanted a brand with expertise in this product area that we could trust. We also have a great relationship with our dealer Watling JCB and the supplier of the guidance and control system - Topcon - recommended the hydraulics and electrics on the JCB machine for use with its system.
“Traditional dozers have served us well on road surfacing work and are still a great tool for conventional road widths of 4-7metres. However, we recognised the opportunity for a more efficient, smaller solution on narrower applications.
“The combination is doing a great job for us. JCB’s compatibility with the Topcon 3DMC2 system has been seamless. The savings in time and materials are massive on large projects – particularly final trim work – and we expect the machine to pay for itself quite quickly.
“Another huge benefit of the JCB compact tracked loader is its versatility. When not on grading duties we can change the attachment in minutes. With hi-flow hydraulics it is powerful and we can use it for a range of other roles.”
ECL Civil Engineering Ltd was founded in 1993 and has grown into a major groundworks contractor working with the UK’s leading housebuilders on major new build developments across central England. The company boasts a large fleet of construction equipment including JCB excavators ranging from 6 – 30 tonnes.
Powered by the efficient JCB EcoMAX T4F engine, JCB’s large platform 1179 kg rated operating capacity 260T vertical lift compact track loader is designed to be manoeuvrable in tight, confined areas and can easily be transported from job site to job site. Its compact design has been achieved without sacrificing power, safety, visibility, comfort or productivity.
JCB’s unique “PowerBoom” design uses a single arm, rather than the conventional two-arm skid steer design. This allows a unique left side entry door which enables the operator to enter and exit the machine clear of the attachment and loader arm, making it the industry’s safest skid steer. Through this innovation, visibility is on average, 60% greater than the competition and the cab size is 46% larger.