Develon machines excel at new Lincolnshire quarry
Pioneer supply DX490LC-7 excavator and top-of-the-range DL580-7 wheel loader to Heritage Quarry Group (North)
AT the new Skillington Quarry near Grantham, Lincolnshire, Develon’s DX490LC-7 crawler excavator and DL580-7 wheel loader have been central to transforming a greenfield site into a fully operational limestone quarry in under six months.
Owned by Heritage Quarry Group (North) Ltd, the quarry site has consented reserves of over 10 million tonnes, ensuring a long-term supply of stone. The 50.4-tonne DX490LC-7 loads limestone into mobile crushing, screening and conveying equipment, while the DL580-7 wheel loader handles stockpiling and truck loading.
Both new machines were supplied and are supported by Pioneer Plant, Develon’s authorized dealer for Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, and parts of south Lincolnshire.
Steve Johnson, director at Heritage Quarry Group (North), said: ‘We are delighted to have moved from a field where grass was growing in March this year to selling stone on 1st September. It has been hard work, including installing all the infrastructure required, such as water and electrification.
‘The new Develon equipment has been very impressive. I have employed a lot of Doosan equipment successfully in the past, and the new latest generation Develon machines continue to excel in the loading and stockpiling roles that are vital to the productivity of the new quarry.’
The DX490LC-7 offers the strength and productivity needed for heavy-duty work at Skillington Quarry. Powered by a Stage V-compliant Scania DC13 diesel engine delivering 294kW (394hp), it meets the latest emission regulations while maintaining high performance.
The combination of the DC13 engine, D-Ecopower+ system, and new-generation Smart Power Control Technology (SPC3) enhances fuel efficiency, while increased pump capacity and higher engine power deliver up to an 8% boost in productivity.
The DL580-7 is the largest model in the DL-7 wheel loader range, offering up to 7% more bucket capacity (6.4m³), faster and easier loading, and high breakout and lifting forces thanks to its Z-kinematic lift arm. A generous dump angle ensures efficient unloading, even for sticky materials.
The DL580-7 cab prioritises operator comfort and safety. Features include a heated and ventilated seat with fully adjustable horizontal and vertical suspension, pneumatic lumbar support, and a three-point safety belt with alarm icons on the SmartTouch touchscreen and gauge panel. Anti-reflective glass, an advanced steering system, and electronic controls further enhance the working environment.
Operators also benefit from the Develon Smart Key system, allowing keyless machine start, remote door control, theft prevention, and additional convenient functions. The control panel also includes two USB sockets for charging and connectivity.
Mr Johnson concluded: ‘We have received top-class service from both Pioneer and Develon. Confirming what I have experienced in the past with what was the Doosan brand, I have found that the high performance and reliability of the Develon range fits the bill.’
