Two new Volvo haulers for Gallagher Aggregates

Pair of A60H articulated haulers deployed as prime movers of Kentish Ragstone at Hermitage Quarry

FOLLOWING a successful trial and detailed evaluation, Gallagher Aggregates Ltd have opted for two Volvo A60H articulated haulers as prime movers for hauling Kentish Ragstone at their Hermitage Quarry, near Maidstone, in Kent.

Following an initial enquiry made at last year’s Hillhead exhibition, the 55-tonne capacity A60H was trialed by Gallagher Aggregates to assess the suitability of introducing an articulated hauler of this size to the operations at Hermitage.

‘In essence, we were impressed with the tonnage moved for a very economical fuel burn, together with fast cycle times,’ commented Gallagher’s operations manager, Pat Gooney. ‘It certainly proved to be a success in all areas of the quarry’s production and was an immediate hit with our operators.

‘The two new trucks are carrying out the same production of the three 50-tonne trucks they replace, and we are already seeing the immediate benefits when it comes to fuel consumption and the savings on running costs, whilst maintaining the production we require.’

Gallagher Aggregates’ two A60Hs have had additional special features fitted to them, including 200mm side extensions coupled to a cantilever tailgate, which increase the hauler’s body capacity to 39 cubic metres and maximize payload. Also, to give extra protection to the hitch area and cab, optional front spill guards have been added to the front of the skips.

In this configuration, the trucks are capable of handling all of the duties on site, which includes hauling blasted material from the face to the primary crusher, as well as some secondary duties around the plant.

Working 10-hour shifts from Monday to Friday, with a half day on Saturday, the two new A60Hs will contribute to the annual output of the quarry. ‘Again, we are really impressed with the power of the trucks, especially on the gradients with the typical payloads they are carrying,’ said  Mr Gooney.

‘The new arrivals are proving very popular with their operators too. The cab is extremely comfortable and has been well thought-out in its design. The two-speed reverse and fast tip and lower functions add to the overall faster cycle times, and Volvo’s unique suspension system provides excellent load retention and operator comfort.’  

With its 55-tonne payload, Volvo CE  say the A60H brings a new dimension to reducing the cost per tonne of material moved, using tried and tested frame and powertrain designs with the emphasis on fuel efficiency.

The A60H is powered by a 16-litre Volvo engine that delivers 495kW and 3,200Nm of torque, and has a maximum speed of 54.9km/h. It shares the same features and benefits in terms of design and overall layout as its smaller stablemates in the Volvo articulated hauler range.

The two new arrivals at Gallagher Aggregates have been supplied with an enhanced four-year, 10,000-hour driveline warranty and will be serviced and maintained by Volvo-trained engineers under SMT GB’s Level Two ENHANCE service agreement.