L30B PRO ... well-designed compact loaders.
VCE launches new PRO machines
The L30B PRO and L35B PRO compact wheel loaders from Volvo are not only productive, versatile and manoeuvrable – but provide a good working environment for the operator and service technician alike.
01 April 2005
Fitted with a panoply of clever design touches and a wide range of tools, the recently-launched L30B PRO and L35B PRO combine good design with strong build quality to provide powerful, long lasting, low maintenance wheel loaders, says a spokesman for the Sweden-based Volvo Construction Equipment (VCE).
At the heart of these all-wheel-drive machines are four cylinder, direct injection, and turbocharged Volvo diesel engines, which produce a maximum gross power of 52 kW/71 hp (L30B) and 57 kW/77hp (L35B) and a maximum torque of 241 Nm for both models at 1,600 r/min – resulting in low fuel consumption, as the engine never needs to be over-revved.
“The engine is fitted into the rear of two solid, robot-welded frames, which are connected via an articulating/oscillating joint. Not only does this joint help provide a high degree of traction, even over rough terrain (as the oscillating movement means wheels stay in contact with the ground), it also provides a hydrostatically-powered steering mechanism, using its +/- 40-degree articulation to help the loaders get into confined areas. The oscillating articulating joint – featuring a special damper to cushion out shocks – also helps improve operator comfort and control by reducing jarring bumps while offering good steering, even over rough surfaces,” he explains.
Heavy-duty portal axles, which give high ground clearance, transmit optimal drive torque to the ground. This is aided by 100 per cent lockable differentials front and rear, operated by a joystick-mounted control in the cab – which means that the operator stays in total control at all times. A bevelled lower rear counterweight allows the machines to tackle very steep inclines without the counterweight coming into contact with the ground.
Braking comes in the form of a dual braking set up that acts on all four wheels.
Two forms of braking are operated by the floor-mounted brake pedal in the cab: the first stage of pedal travel activates a wear-free, hydrostatic ‘inching’ brake, while the final stage operates a central friction brake. A central drum parking-brake acts on all wheels.
Powerful performance
Featuring a hydrostatic transmission, both the L30B PRO and L35B PRO offer full power shift under load – when changing direction (forward/reverse) and between ranges. Maximum drawbar force can be achieved in all ranges.
The hydraulic system features a thermostatically-controlled oil circuit with integrated cooling system. There are separate hydraulic pumps for working and steering that provide consistently high performance and fast cycle times. Even quick steering actions won’t affect work performance, due to the systems’ independence of each other, the spokesman points out. The machines have a maximum speed of 20 km/h and 30 km/h for the L30B and L35B, respectively.
The loader boom uses a Z-Bar linkage that offers good breakout force and parallel lift arm action. Its profile also allows the operator an improved view of the work area.
Dual-lift cylinders offer fast cycle times and powerful lifting while the standard hydraulic quick coupler allows the operator to change attachments from inside the cab. Forks, buckets, material handling arm, sweeper and snow plough are offered, as is an adapter that allows other manufacturers’ attachments to be fitted – further increasing the versatility of these compact wheel loaders. Breakout force for the L30B’s 1 cu m standard bucket is 61 kN, while the L35B offers breakout of 60.5 kN with its 1.2 cu m standard bucket.
The cab features narrow ROPS columns and a large tinted (safety) glass area for good all-round visibility. Anti-slip steps and handrails allow safe access to a large and roomy cab. The operator’s low-noise environment offers centrally-positioned, easy-to-read controls while a multi-function joystick provides fingertip control of lift, lower, dig, dump, drive direction and differential locks. The seat and steering column are also adjustable to suit operator preferences.
Service
Transverse-mounted service points and simplified access to air, oil, fuel and hydraulic filters help make regular maintenance tasks easier, while longer service intervals mean uptime is maximized, the spokesman says. Hydraulic hoses and electrical cables are guided through the middle of the central articulation/oscillation joint, protecting them from being damaged whilst working, further reducing downtime. Similarly, principal service points are protected under the lockable engine cover.
The new L30B PRO and L35B PRO from VCE are well-designed compact loaders that combine innovative features with high quality manufacture. These are highly productive machines that can adapt to a range of tasks on a varied range of terrains, he concludes.
