Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has unveiled new enhancements to its H-Series wheeled loaders that it says will help quarry operators reduce the total cost of ownership.
The rimpull control system now comes as standard on all H-Series models. This function allows operators to minimise wheel spin and optimise the balance between rimpull and hydraulic functions. In turn, this helps reduce tyre wear and fuel consumption for more efficient bucket filling.
The L60H-L220H wheeled loaders were launched in 2014, with the larger L260H and L350H models following in 2017.
"Over the years we have built on experience and worked closely with customers to improve these machines," said Volvo CE product manager Lars Eriksson. "Now, in 2020, we have introduced new features that take these machines to a new level of efficiency."
The Volvo Co-Pilot monitor is now available on a broader range of machines from the L60H up to the L350H. The 25.4cm in-cab touchscreen provides access to several Load Assist applications (depending on machine model) aimed at optimising operator performance and site efficiency.
Firstly, there is a tyre pressure monitoring system that gives operators real-time information on the conditions of machine tyres.
A map application allows operators to get better visibility and understanding of the site layout and real-time site traffic situation, allowing them to adjust their driving behaviour accordingly. Weather, Calculator and Notes apps are also new, and these functions work similarly to those found on a smartphone and are pre-installed in the Volvo Co-Pilot.
Designed to help load the optimum amount of material the on-board weighing app is upgraded to include two new task modes – stockpiling and processing – adapting the on-screen layout and information displayed according to the task at hand.
For increased convenience and safety, both the rear-view camera and radar detector system feature on the Volvo Co-Pilot display. Volvo CE has also introduced an operator coaching application. This tool is designed to enhance operator performance, helping them get the most out of Volvo wheeled loaders and thereby reducing operating costs.
Additional new updates are designed to optimise maintenance procedures, thereby minimising downtime and service costs. Firstly, there is the extended engine oil change interval, which will be 1,000 hours as standard for H-Series models equipped with Stage V engines from April 2020. A quick-fit connector on the hydraulic tank is standard on all H-Series models. This feature is said to result in quicker and easier hydraulic oil filling.
On the L150H up to L260H models, a new quick-fit option enables cleaner and rapid engine oil changes – in as little as 15 minutes – helping eliminate oil spillage and contamination.
