Hidromek HMK230LC proves its worth with Porteous Groundworks in Cornwall
A distinctive Hidromek HMK230LC excavator is proving there is much more behind its eye-catching appearance than just a memorable paint scheme, as Porteous Groundworks puts the 24-tonne machine to work on demanding ground conditions in Cornwall.
Awesome Earthmovers travelled to Hornblower Heights near Falmouth, where the family-run contractor was excavating foundations for a new 30-home development for Devonshire Homes.
Supplied by Hidromek dealer MPS Southwest, the HMK230LC has quickly become one of the most recognisable machines in the Porteous fleet thanks to its custom pink equestrian-themed wrap — earning it the nickname “HidroPony”.
A Hidromek HMK230LC with a difference
Porteous Groundworks was established by Ben Porteous and has grown rapidly into a mixed fleet of excavators, dumpers, rollers and other construction equipment.
Ben’s sister Sophie Porteous primarily works as a buyer for the business but can also regularly be found operating machinery.
When she was given responsibility for the design of the new Hidromek, Sophie chose a scheme that reflected both her love of horses and a wider message about encouraging more women into construction.
“I chose the colour pink deliberately because I wanted to make a statement that there is a place for women to get involved in the construction industry,” she explained.
The design was developed with Jason McCullough of MPS Southwest before Tavy Signs in Tavistock completed the wrap using satin pink, digitally printed graphics and gloss pink chevrons.
The finished excavator drew plenty of attention when it appeared at the Royal Cornwall Show.
Hard ground puts the HMK230LC to work
Away from the showground, the Hidromek has had to prove itself in much more demanding surroundings.
At the Falmouth development, Porteous Groundworks was working in particularly hard ground, including excavating large rocks while preparing the site and foundations.
Main operator Brad Burchell, who also works as site supervisor, had been running the HMK230LC for several months when Awesome Earthmovers visited.
“We are constantly digging out massive rocks, but the machine deals with that really well and is also great for grading and generally tidying up the ground,” he said.
Brad also highlighted the smooth controls and cab environment, including full air conditioning and a reclining, air-suspended heated seat.
For Porteous Groundworks, that combination of digging capability and controllability has made the machine useful across both heavier excavation and more precise finishing work.
Why Porteous Groundworks chose Hidromek
The HidroPony is not the company’s first HMK230LC.
Porteous Groundworks first became interested in Hidromek after trying a demonstration machine around two years earlier. Since then, several HMK230LC excavators have joined the fleet.
The company points to build quality, reliability and fuel efficiency as key reasons for continuing to invest in the model.
The latest machine was supplied with a three-year, 4,000-hour warranty and forms part of Hidromek’s H4 Series.
Hidromek HMK230LC specification
Power comes from a 172hp Isuzu 4HK1X engine, which operates at 1,900rpm at maximum torque and can be boosted to 2,000rpm when additional power is required.
The excavator uses a two-pump Kawasaki hydraulic system, with Hidromek stating that hydraulic movements are 7% faster than on previous models.
According to the manufacturer figures contained in the original feature, the H4 Series machine is also claimed to deliver a 17% productivity improvement and 21% increase in efficiency.
Visibility has been another area of focus.
Side and rear cameras are fitted to help reduce blind spots, while additional LED lighting improves visibility when working in low-light conditions.
Safety equipment includes an automatic starting horn, swing warning system and travel warning system, together with red handles and warning labels intended to make key safety points more visible around the machine.
Operator comfort on long working days
For operators spending long periods in the cab, Porteous Groundworks has also found plenty to like about the HMK230LC’s working environment.
Brad described the controls as smooth, while the heated, air-suspended seat and climate control help make long days more comfortable.
That matters on a machine being asked to move between heavy excavation, rock digging, grading and finishing duties throughout a project.
The result is an excavator that has become a regular part of Porteous Groundworks’ expanding fleet rather than simply a one-off purchase.
Dealer support from MPS Southwest
The relationship between Porteous Groundworks and MPS Southwest has also played an important role in the contractor’s continued investment in Hidromek equipment.
MPS Southwest has supported the business since its early days, with the Porteous family highlighting the dealer’s service and willingness to help whenever support is required.
For a rapidly growing contractor, that dealer relationship has become an important part of the overall ownership experience.
The HidroPony may attract attention because of its striking appearance, but our visit to Cornwall showed that the machine’s real value lies in its day-to-day performance.
From breaking into difficult ground and handling large rocks to grading and general site preparation, the Hidromek HMK230LC is earning its place in the Porteous Groundworks fleet — while delivering a message that ensures it stands out wherever it works.
Read the full Awesome Earthmovers feature
This article is based on a feature originally published in Issue 30 of Awesome Earthmovers. Read the complete feature, including the full story and original photography, in the digital magazine.
