Ascot-based Shorts Group Ltd has taken delivery of two new Volvo DD24 double drum compactors for its Shorts Plant Hire division. The machine weighs in at 2.6 tonnes and has a drum width of 1.2m. The drums have dual frequencies, operating at either 55 or 67Hz for optimal impact and delivering nominal amplitude of 0.53cm. A 260-litre pressurized water feed system is directed via four nozzles per drum, working in conjunction with spring-loaded, self-adjusting urethane wipers.

The machine is designed to provide excellent forward and rear visibility to the drum edges for the machine operator, and the drum surfaces have radiused and chamfered edges to produce a high-quality finish. A closed loop hydrostatic drive system facilitates changes of direction.

Shorts’ Plant Depot Manager, Jason Southam, says the company carefully evaluated the machines before making it decision. “We were more than satisfied with the attention to detail in the design of the DD24 and the overall build quality. We also operate a number of Volvo compact excavators, so we had the additional assurance of Volvo’s after sales service and support network.”

Shorts Group is a long established, independent family business which, besides operating its self-drive hire operation, offers a diverse range of services that include agricultural contracting, demolition, skip hire and waste management throughout Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Surrey and the surrounding counties.