Advanced Excavator Cuts Costs
Develon has developed an integrated suite of intelligent technologies across its excavator range designed to reduce fuel consumption, while maintaining operational performance. Says Johann Viljoen of Disa, distributors of Develon earthmoving equipment in Southern Africa, “Advanced technologies work intelligently to optimise efficiency without requiring changes to established operating procedures.
“The technology implementations are available across the excavator range, with particular emphasis on machines designed for demanding applications, where fuel savings can generate substantial cost reductions over operational lifecycles.
Challenging conditions
“Develon’s DX800 excavator incorporates these technologies, within a design engineered for challenging operating conditions in Africa. The machine’s smart hydraulic systems and optimised engine management enable high productivity levels, while maintaining controlled fuel consumption rates,” Johann adds.
Integration of multiple efficiency technologies contributes to reduced total cost of ownership for operators handling substantial excavation projects.
Auto-idle
Develon’s advanced technology focuses on Electronic Power Optimisation systems that monitor engine load continuously and adjust fuel injection parameters accordingly. This approach ensures engines operate at optimal efficiency points, whilst delivering required power output.
The auto-idle system reduces engine speed automatically during inactive periods, eliminating fuel waste during brief operational pauses common in excavation work.
Adaptive power modes allow operators to match machine performance to specific task requirements. The Eco mode adjusts engine speed and hydraulic flow rates for lighter operations such as grading and loading activities, reducing fuel consumption without compromising productivity. Operators can switch between power settings as operational demands change throughout working cycles.
Load-sensing
The hydraulic system incorporates load-sensing technology that adjusts power output based on resistance encountered during operation. This prevents engines from operating at unnecessarily high levels when reduced force is sufficient, contributing to overall fuel efficiency whilst reducing component wear.
The system optimises hydraulic fluid flow to deliver power precisely where required, minimising energy losses.
Informed decisions
Advanced operator interfaces provide real-time fuel consumption data and performance metrics, enabling informed decisions about operating techniques and power mode selection. Some systems include historical analysis capabilities, allowing fleet managers to identify consumption patterns and implement efficiency strategies across multiple machines.
Environmental compliance considerations are also increasingly relevant to equipment owners, with reduced fuel consumption contributing to lower emission levels. This supports environmental regulatory compliance, whilst addressing sustainability requirements becoming standard in the construction sector.
Significant cost savings
Develon’s implementation of advanced excavator technologies generate significant cost savings through reduced fuel consumption, particularly for operations involving multiple machines, working extended hours. The combination of automated systems and operator guidance tools provides comprehensive efficiency management, without requiring extensive training or operational changes.
DISA Equipment specialists recommend regular servicing of machines – including timely oil changes and air filter replacements – to ensure that equipment operates at peak efficiency, delivering optimal fuel efficiency and reduced costs.
