Pilot Crushtec power Ovenden Earthmoving
New TwisterTrac VS350E offers major productivity gains and environmental benefits over previous model
PILOT Crushtec’s longstanding relationship with leading UK contractor Ovenden Earthmoving Co. Ltd has been strengthened with the successful delivery and operation of the latest generation TwisterTrac VS350E mobile vertical-shaft impact (VSI) crusher.
Since 1985, Canterbury-based Ovenden Earthmoving have built a reputation as a trusted partner in earthmoving, crushing, recycling, and sea defence projects. The company’s longstanding trust in Pilot Crushtec’s VSI technology goes back more than a decade, with a 2008 TwisterTrac AC210 model still in operation.
As Ovenden Earthmoving looked to boost productivity and enhance environmental performance, the decision to invest in the TwisterTrac VS350E was a natural evolution. The new machine brings significant advantages including a Stage 5 Volvo engine that reduces emissions and cuts fuel consumption by up to 40%, while increasing production rates by as much as 50% compared to the older AC210.
According to Shane Dolman, operations manager at Ovenden Earthmoving, the TwisterTrac VS350E has already demonstrated its value. ‘We recently put the machine through its paces processing limestone pebble in wet conditions with moisture content exceeding 6%. The results were exceptional with the machine converting what was previously unsellable material into high-demand sand,’ he explained. ‘From 6mm feed, we achieved 60% under 2mm product. Even with 10mm feed, nearly half the output was under 2mm. This has opened new commercial opportunities for us.’
Ease of use was another critical factor. Operators quickly adapted to the TwisterTrac VS350E thanks to its intuitive start-up panel and lack of complex PLC systems. The machine’s onboard annunciator display keeps operators informed with clear LED indicators for any faults, whilst its automatic lubrication system simplifies daily pre-start routines.
‘Maintenance and inspection have also been transformed,’ said Mr Dolman. ‘The ability to open the crusher housing in under five minutes for rotor inspection without running the diesel engine is a gamechanger. It is safer, faster, and more efficient.’
Highlighting that the success of the TwisterTrac VS350E at Ovenden Earthmoving is exactly what the machine was designed for, Pilot Crushtec’s director of sales and marketing, Francois Marais, said: ‘We wanted to deliver not just more power and higher production, but also smarter, more sustainable crushing solutions. The load-sensing system dynamically adjusts feeder speed to maintain optimal engine load, reducing fuel spikes and improving overall efficiency, and the ability to connect to grid power makes the VS350E even more cost effective and environmentally responsible,’ he said.
The TwisterTrac VS350E is equipped with advanced rotor balancing for improved stability and longevity and the machine features variable-speed control to fine-tune output sizes and shapes according to the customer’s specifications.
The positive-pressure system prevents dust ingress into electrical panels, adding further reliability and reducing long-term maintenance. Additionally, the machine’s hydraulic lift and rotate system for rotor and table access streamlines serviceability.
Mr Marais also pointed to the versatility of the TwisterTrac VS350E. ‘This machine is designed for multiple applications, from sand manufacturing and shaping of aggregate to recycling and industrial minerals crushing. In addition, the modular design allows customers to adapt easily to different requirements without needing multiple machines,’ he said.
With the successful deployment of the TwisterTrac VS350E, Ovenden Earthmoving have reaffirmed their trust in Pilot Crushtec’s innovation and reliability. The relationship stands as testament to forward-thinking investment and technology leadership as the demand for more environmentally conscious and cost-effective crushing solutions continues to grow.
