My

My name is Olavi Salo and I am a self-employed sub-contractor working in a peat bog in Hirvaskangas, central Finland. My company name is O&J Salo and I work with my son, Jaakko. I have worked here since 1986 for Vapo, the world’s leading peat supplier.

The work involves gathering peat and wood from the area, before the two materials are mixed together to create fuel. Around 150,000m³ of peat are produced at this site annually.

I own a Hitachi ZX135USL-3 and it is fitted with a rake attachment and used to pile the dry wood before chipping. It is also used with a large bucket to prepare ditches for irrigation in the bog, and to transport and load peat.

Hitachi

I bought my first Hitachi excavator from the official Hitachi dealer, Rotator, in 1995. Since then I have ordered an additional three Hitachi machines, including an EX100M, which was delivered in 1998 and is still in operation.

The ZX135USL-3 was delivered in June 2009 and has 1,300 hours. Rotator has fitted protective track support skis to enhance the durability of the undercarriage. Other modifications provided by the dealer include Xenon lights to enhance visibility, and additional protection on the side of the machine and roof of the cab.

Experience

The most important advantages for me are the excavator’s low ground pressure and that the undercarriage clears the ground easily when manoeuvring over rocks and tree stumps.

The cab also has good visibility and the short-radius swing is beneficial. When loading a truck, I don’t have to constantly check behind me, and it’s good for working in narrow spaces. The machine is also precise and I find the controls easy to operate. It works perfectly, so I have no complaints.

Finland > ZX135 > Forestry