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Califam selects new Kobelco SK500LC-9 for pipeline business

Victorian civil construction company and pipeline specialist Califam Constructions has nothing but praise for its latest purchase, the new Kobelco SK500LC-9 excavator.

The 50-tonne machine was released in Australia in June this year and according to Kobelco delivers 10 per cent more productivity and better fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor, the  SK480LC-8.

Califam Constructions Managing Director Anthony Caligiuri says Kobelco machinery has been a mainstay in the company’s fleet for many years.

“In general they’re a very strong machine and are great on fuel consumption. Plus they can handle the bigger rock breakers really well compared to other machines in the same class,” he says.

“We pride ourselves on our state-of-the-art plant and technologies and our ability to deliver projects on time and to budget so having the best machines is part of maintaining that productivity.”

Caligiuri adds the company owns a number of Kobelco SK480LC-8 excavators but heard about the new release and decided to give it a try.

He purchased the SK500LC-9 from Kobelco dealer Melbourne Tractors.

“The reduced fuel consumption was a major factor in our decision but it also runs at a good speed when compared to other machines in its class,” he says.

“Its track speed is good too so it’s the complete package.”

Safety is also a big consideration for Califam as they use the excavator for deep trenching in hard rock with a rock breaker attachment.

Kobelco says the SK500LC-9 features a larger, safer cab with both rollover protection and falling object protection and is certified to 56,000 kg to cater for large front attachments.

“We’ve also had very good feedback from the operator,” Caligiuri says.

“The cab is very comfortable and has good visibility. It has a reversing camera, which also adds to safety and these features make it much easier to sit in it all day.”

Califam Constructions is a family business formed 40 years ago and specialises in earthmoving and civil construction related to building mains pipelines.

The business has reportedly undertaken many significant projects for major developers and water authorities in and around the greater Melbourne area.

Click here to find Kobelco excavators for sale.

Click here to look up Kobelco excavator specifications.

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