Volvo CE expand rigid hauler range into 60- and 70-tonne classes
Launch of 55-tonne payload R60 and 65-tonne R70 rigid haulers broadens quarry hauling options
FOLLOWING the success of the R100 hauler, Volvo Construction Equipment have announced the addition of two new hauling options for quarrying customers. As with their bigger 95-tonne brother, both the 55-tonne payload R60 and 65-tonne payload R70 rigid haulers are designed to help drive down total cost of ownership, as well as introducing the latest comfort and safety features.
With a body volume of 36.04m3 and 42.4m3, respectively, the R60 and R70 are a good match for the loading abilities of Volvo CE’s EC950F crawler excavator and L350H wheel loader. And whilst they may be smaller in size than the flagship R100, customers will see many of the same features and benefits of the latest E-generation in the two new machines.
The launch of these new units gives quarry customers greater production options – not just of these three rigid haulers, but also Volvo CE’s articulated hauler range (the R60 rigid has the same 55-tonne payload as the company’s A60H articulated hauler).
The choice between a rigid hauler and an articulated hauler depends on various factors, including the specific needs and conditions of the quarrying operation. While rigid haulers thrive on sites with wide, firm, well maintained haul roads, where they can travel fast (up to 61km/h) over long distances, articulated haulers trump card is on uneven, narrow, slippery and steep haul roads, where the haul cycle is shorter. The introduction of the R60 and R70 allows Volvo to tailor hauling solution to suit the particular site dynamics. Volvo Site Simulation service can help meet production targets, reduce CO2 emissions and boost profitability by recommending the optimal site set-up/machine fleet.
The new machines are being made at Volvo CE’s Motherwell plant in Scotland, a site that for nearly 75 years has been the global heart of rigid hauler development. Haulers from here are renowned for their high productivity, low maintenance requirements and long service life, and the R60 and R70 are no exception. With a low centre of gravity, balanced weight, and tough-yet-flexible chassis, the new machines embody the robustness, performance, and reliability that delivers low cost of operation.
Maximizing tonnes of material moved per hour is a core principle of the design of the R60 and R70. The new machines feature a V-shaped haul body, that is designed to deliver maximum load retention, while at the same time minimal material carry-back post dumping. The dumping process itself is also speedy, thanks to a fast-tip system. Providing real-time insights on payload, the optional On-Board Weighing system helps operators apply the industry standard 10/10/20 payload policy – where the machine can take 10% overload for 10% of the time but should not exceed 20%.
In terms of grip, the high drive axle multiplication ensures maximum traction, whilst the already efficient high-torque engine is further supported in cutting fuel consumption by the automatic adaptive gear selection offered by Volvo Dynamic Shift Control. The engine also has a selectable Eco mode that defaults to the most efficient gear, while the auto engine idle shut down reduces engine wear – both of which boost fuel efficiency.
As with the R100, the R60 and R70 cab is fully ROPS/FOPS certified, with access from both sides via anti-slip steps. When on the move the haulers feature gear-dependent speed control, and a selectable brake or transmission retarder. The gearbox also has overspeed protection and a neutral coast inhibitor for downhill operations. There is fail-safe braking and even a secondary steering system to keep the machine safely on the right track. Visibility is among the most important elements of safety, and the operators of the R60 and R70 benefit from the large windscreen and low raked dashboard, further supported by the 360-degree Volvo Smart View option.
In terms of comfort, the R60 and R70 help keep operators alert and performing at their best, all shift long. Starting with an ergonomic seating position and air-suspended seat, the operator is insulated from the world outside thanks to independent suspension, while the cab sits on vibration-damping viscous mounts. The steering is low effort, and the wheel adjustable, while the operator can choose cab temperature thanks to a powerful air-conditioning system. The operator also benefit from ample storage space and can also choose their own entertainment, via a Bluetooth radio that can connect to mobile phones.
One of the key strengths of the R60 and R70 is their ease of maintenance. Helping to keep repair costs and downtime down, the units have 500h service intervals, ground-level tagout and easy-to-reach service points. Common sized bearings keep parts stockholding simple and cost effective. Technology also plays a part, with on-board service diagnostics and the CareTrack telematics system helping to rapidly identify potential faults and maximize uptime.
