Lafarge choose Volvo machines for key roles

Lafarge Aggregates have ordered four Volvo L150E wheel loaders for their sand and gravel operations in Staffordshire, Leicestershire and Norfolk, with a fifth machine allocated to a mobile recycling team that will be deployed at units located in Hertfordshire, Essex and Cambridge. In addition, four Volvo L120E loaders have been ordered for Lafarge Aggregates’ asphalt, sand and gravel and railhead operations in the Midlands.

Both the L120E and L150E are powered by Volvo electronically controlled, low-emission Tier III-compliant 7-litre and 12-litre engines respectively. The key feature of these power units is an extremely high torque rise in the low rev/min band, providing an economic working range between 800 and 1,600 rev/min. This, coupled to an intelligent load-sensing system, equates to fast response times and low fuel consumption.

For control and monitoring of operation and performance, Volvo’s Contronic integrated electronic network is provided. This system’s three computers monitor operational functions in real time, store all data for analysis and make it possible to reprogramme and update the machine’s various functions. With the E-series models, Contronic has been given additional functions that increase safety and peace of mind for the operator. The control panel continuously relays information about fuel consumption, oil levels, fluid levels and temperatures.

Maximum operator comfort is provided by the Volvo Care Cab II. As well as a multi-position seat and a telescoping and tiltable steering wheel, air inside the cab is carefully controlled. Ten outlets deliver filtered and climate-controlled air into the cab, and all in-take and recirculated air passes through the main filter, providing an extremely clean operating environment. To ensure maximum operator benefit from the cab’s all-round visibility, a rear windshield wiper and front/rear window washers are now standard equipment on all models.

Completing the line up of machines ordered by Lafarge Aggregates is a refurbished Volvo G740 motor grader that has been delivered to Dowlow Quarry in the Peak District, where it will be used to keep the main haul roads in good condition as production from the face to the plant is increased.