Combining economy with performance
New wheel loaders from Sweden's Volvo Construction Equipment combine optimal production levels with cost-efficiency, according to the company.
01 April 2003
The E-Series wheel loader range from Volvo Construction Equipment (VCE) introduces the new L60E, L70E, L90E and L110E, each equipped with a new electronically-controlled low emission engine, improved Automatic Power Shift (APS) gear shifting system and a host of other new and improved features, says the Swedish company.
The features give these machines the required high performance, excellent economy and unmatched flexibility for a variety of construction, industrial and agricultural-related applications.
Together with the L120E wheel loader, the E-Series range completes the medium range of Volvo wheel loaders.
The L60E and L110E have been developed specifically for the E-Series, while the L70E and L90E wheel loaders are upgraded and improved models from Volvo's D-series.
High performers
Described by the company as true 'all-rounders', the four new wheel loaders combine optimal production levels with the very best cost-effectiveness and productivity.
Their electronically-controlled low emission, high performance engines give low fuel consumption and low operating costs. The improved APS gear-shifting system allows the operator to choose between four different shifting modes for optimal performance in all types of working applications.
The Volvo L60E, L70E and L90E wheel loaders are powered by a new six-litre Volvo diesel engine, while the L110E is equipped with a new seven-litre Volvo diesel engine in common with the L120E loader. The new engines meet EPA Tier2 and EU step II emission requirements while producing high torque at low rpm and giving superior performance with lower fuel consumption, says the company.
Volvo's turbocharged low-emission engines have an air-to-air intercooler and hydraulically- driven electronically controlled fan which only works when there is a cooling demand, therefore reducing fuel consumption.
All of the new loaders feature the patented Torque Parallel Linkage (TP-Linkage), which combines high breakout torque and excellent parallel action throughout the entire lifting range. A hydraulic attachment bracket, together with Volvo's extensive attachment range, increases the loader's versatility, providing a highly flexible 'all rounder'.
Intelligent loaders
The E-Series wheel loaders operate quickly and precisely in a wide range of applications, claims Volvo.
They feature a powerful and intelligent load-sensing hydraulic system, which provides the power by delivering the exact amount of hydraulic oil flow when and where it is needed.
Volvo's in-house developed countershaft transmission offers the smoothest shifting possible, VCE says. All the operator has to do is select forward, reverse or kickdown - the APS always selects the correct gear depending on engine rpm, travel speed and which shifting program the operator has selected.
Axles on the Volvo E-Series machines have been developed, adapted and integrated into the total drive-train design to provide rim pull for the optimum amount of power. Volvo's outboard mounted, fully sealed, self-adjusting, circulation cooled wet disc brakes are designed for long service life and smooth, effective and reliable braking.
Another feature of the Volvo E-Series wheel loaders is an improved frame design with high-strength steel for secure component mounting and increased service life.
Contronic, the highly reliable control and monitoring system developed by Volvo, continuously monitors the E-Series' various functions. This innovative system is an electronic network made up of three computers. Operating at three levels, the system monitors the machine's functions in real time and if potential problems should occur, the system generates an immediate warning to the operator.
For the E-Series, the Contronic system is now available in eight new languages, bringing the total to 13 available languages.
All operating data are saved and can be used to analyse the performance of the wheel loaders, allowing the customer to trace its history since its last service.
The machine's functions can also be updated for optimal adaptation to new and different operating conditions via the Contronic service display.
Cafe Cab
The E-Series wheel loaders are equipped with Volvo's Care Cab, providing a comfortable and safe environment for the operator.
All incoming air is filtered in two stages, making it what Volvo says is the cleanest cab on the market, as even the re-circulated air is filtered. The efficient air conditioning system provides comfortable cab temperatures year-round, while also functioning as an air dryer.
The Care Cab is equipped with adjustable steering wheel, seat, armrests and lever console for enhanced operator comfort. Large windows and narrow pillars give excellent all-round visibility, while a newly-designed engine hood improves rear visibility.
Noise insulation has been improved, making the Care Cab one of the quietest cabs on the market. A sloped ladder provides easy cab entry, while all service platforms and steps feature new and improved anti-slip surfaces.
Easy service
Service and maintenance has been made easier on the new Volvo E-Series wheel loaders. Access for daily inspections of service points, filters and fluid level checks is via new and improved large engine doors raised by gas struts. An improved swing-up radiator grille and swing-out fan also improve service accessibility.
More than 95 per cent of materials used in the E-Series wheel loaders can be recycled. Components such as the engine, transmission and hydraulics are reconditioned and reused in an exchange program. It is also possible to use biodegradable oil in the loader's hydraulic system, says Volvo.
