Capital Equipment News August 2018

WHEEL LOADERS

Volvo CE now uses its Optishift in its large wheel loader range.

Behind the driveline It is generally agreed that the choice of a driveline plays a big role in the overall efficiency of a wheel loader. With various options available, what should influence the choice of a driveline when it is buying time? By Munesu Shoko

Schmitt reasons that the choice largely depends on the application – short cycle loading or load and carry applications, levelled ground or up-hill. “However, if you choose a modern powershift transmission with a lock-up function, which adjusts shift pattern according to the usage, that’s a versatile solution that fits all applications,” he says. “There are more components which are important to evaluate during the purchasing decision – for example, hydraulic system, lifting arm linkage, turning radius, among others.” Stephen McNeill, marketing manager – Alliances at Bell Equipment, says the driveline choice directly impacts wheel torque, machine responsiveness and fuel efficiency. He reasons that some of the factors that should influence a customer’s choice of a driveline in their wheel loader include machine breakout force, cost, fuel efficiency and backup support when failure occurs. To get overall control of the quality of the machine, Volvo CE develops and manufactures the driveline components in-house. “This gives us the possibility to

T he choice of a driveline is one of the principal influ- encers of a wheel loader’s efficiency on site. How important is it when it comes to wheel loader efficien- cy? Frank Schmitt, product manager for wheel loaders and articulated haulers within Volvo CE Sales Region EMEA, says well-matched and efficient driveline components are one of the most important influence factors for a state-of-the-art wheel loader.

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS AUGUST 2018 24