Articulated hauler range extended
Volvo has boosted its D series range of articulated haulers with the launch of two new models.
01 December 2001
Volvo has extended its D series of articulated haulers with the launch of the A25D and A30D dumptrucks.
"The new haulers have the award-winning look and design of the larger A35D and A40D dumptrucks with new engineering to boost productivity through improved load capacities, faster dumping, improved braking systems and longer service intervals," says a spokesman for the Sweden-based Volvo Construction Equipment (VCE). "Safety has been improved, operating costs lowered and the environmental impact reduced."
Highlighting their features, he continues: "The A25D and A30D feature a new generation cab that is roomier, has significantly lower noise levels. and is easier to get in and out of thanks to wide and angled steps and a threshold-free door opening.
"The ergonomic operator's seat and the extensive glass surfaces in combination with well-placed cab pillars and large rear-view mirrors provide excellent visibility all around the machine, contributing to a safer and less tiresome work environment.
"The cab's interior has excellent practical solutions. When lowered, the instructor's seat becomes a table while a 24-volt outlet and the ample storage space for lunchbox or cooler add to the operator's comfort. To keep the floor clear, the hauler is equipped with several storage compartments inside and outside the cab.
"The steering wheel is adjustable and pedals are located in optimal positions for comfort. The new instrument panel has ergonomically-shaped operating controls, ideally located for rapid overview of available information. An operator communication system registers and saves operating information during the work cycle. All information is displayed in order of importance. This helps to better plan the workcycle.
"Volvo's maintenance-free three-point suspension system, the fully-sprung front axle and all-terrain bogie provide comfort and safety on rough terrain.
"The haulers are equipped with a hydro-mechanical self-compensating steering system that makes the equipment easy to operate. The very stable steering, even at high speeds, is also extremely powerful off-road.
"The dump body holds a bigger volume and load capacity has been increased on the haulers to 24 and 28 tonnes respectively. Both the A25D and A30D have the patented 'load and dump brake'. When the hauler is in position for loading or dumping, the operator presses a button to automatically apply the brakes and place the transmission in neutral. This improves safety and minimises wear on the brakes and drivetrain.
"The two double-acting hoist cylinders and new dumping hydraulics with higher pressure and greater oil flow have reduced dumping times.
"The trucks feature improved brake systems, with dual-circuit hydraulic dry disc brakes acting on all wheels. The brake system components are well-protected and have a good self-cleaning function. If brake pressure should fail, there is an automatically-applied secondary brake. If the pressure should fail in both circuits simultaneously, the parking brake is activated as an emergency brake.
"Two retardation systems are built into the transmission: the exhaust retarder and the variable hydraulic retarder. The retarder's quick response and well-sustained braking action makes it possible for the operator to keep a high average speed throughout the work cycle with minimum or no use of the service brakes, giving higher productivity, reduced brake wear and lower operating costs.
"Both models are equipped with a Volvo 10-litre turbo-charged high-performance low-emission diesel engine, featuring electronically-controlled injection and intercooler. It develops high torque at low engine speed which is most important when starting from a standstill, making the haulers easy to manoeuvre in difficult terrain. The engine has a thermostatically-controlled and hydraulically-driven fan with variable speed that uses power only when needed.
"The engine's electronic control unit works together with the transmission electronics to provide an intelligent system that adapts automatically to driving conditions. The machines have all-wheel drive and 100 per cent differential-locks, giving the operator many driving options.
"The entire drivetrain - engine, transmission, dropbox and axles - is made up of Volvo components. Each part is developed and designed for optimum performance under the demanding driving and working conditions of an articulated hauler. This gives low fuel consumption and high reliability and serviceability of the machines resulting in low overall haulage and maintenance costs.
"With no daily or weekly service times, the D-series requires less time for maintenance, hours that can be used in productive work instead. Steering cylinder and joint bearings, as well as hitch bearings are greased for life. Service accessibility is vastly improved with a fold-down front grill with access ladder to the remote filter bank, located in front of the engine. The engine hood is large and has a 90-degree opening for total engine walk-around access. Remote drain hoses and a swing-out radiator make cleaning easy.
"There are several features that all focus on operator safety. Level checks are handled by the information system on the display in front of the operator. The communication system warns the operator if, for example, the dump body is up, the seat belt is unbuckled or the door is open. Slip-resistant surfaces and handrails provide easy and safe access to move around the machine. Visibility is enhanced by minimal blind spots, giving good visibility all around the machine."
The A35D and A40D recently received a top industrial design award from Svensk Form, the Swedish Society of Crafts and Design founded in 1845, at the society's 18th annual Excellent Swedish Design awards.
The haulers were among 43 products chosen from nearly 500 design proposals within categories ranging from furniture, textiles, industrial design and industrial art design, to lighting, graphic design, website design and visual identity. The awards were based on the product's purpose, function, ergonomics, aesthetic appeal, material quality, environmental impact and price.
The A35D and A40D haulers - designed by Nya Perspektiv Design in cooperation with VCE - were launched worldwide in September last year.
