Modern Mining May 2018

COVER STORY

data using the operator-friendly dashboard for fast analysis and solutions. While the R100E is an all-new design, its sis- ter D-Series machines are based on the existing and well-proven TR-Series. Essentially, they represent the result of an in-depth engineering review of the TR-Series range, ensuring that the machines meet the standards of Volvo products in their target markets and segments. Included in the many improvements are greater visibility and enhanced safety systems. Babcock will be backing the new rigid haul- ers with the high-quality aftermarket service for which it is well-known, which is delivered through its extensive branch network. “We really do put huge effort into looking after our customers,” says Vaughan. “Proof of this is that we’ve just won Volvo CE’s ‘Best Dealer Volvo Services Award’ for the EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) region. The main measuring tool for this award is an independent survey which is undertaken by a specialist company appointed by Volvo CE which rates Volvo CE dealers against competitor companies in their respective areas in terms of aftermarket service. We top scored in our region, beating our com- petitors in every category.” All the Volvo rigid haulers are now avail- able for order and the first machines, including the R100E, could be seen in South Africa by year-end, says Vaughan. “We believe they are coming on stream at just the right time,” he says. “Demand for rigid dump trucks has been depressed over the past several years but there are indications that the market is starting to turn around. With the Volvo-branded rigid haulers now in our portfolio, we are definitely very well-placed to take advantage of any upturn. We’ve done incredibly well with Volvo’s artic- ulated haulers since taking over the Volvo CE dealership in 2000 and we expect to repeat this success with the rigid haulers.” 

incorporating an Allison H8610 ORS transmis- sion, the R100E – which has a top speed of 50 km/h and offers a gross torque of 4 631 Nm – is built for all surface mining and quarry- ing applications where operational costs are critical. Customers can expect to spend less per haul with the R100E, which is equipped with a 60,4 m 3 capacity V-shaped body for optimum load retention and minimal material carry-back. The speedy body-tipping system ensures fast cycle times for an all-round effi- cient performance. A significant investment was spent in frame and body rigorous testing, which included applying 60 000 hours’ worth of chassis fatigue loads. With a body manufactured from high impact and high abrasion-resistant 400-HBW- hard steel, the R100E rigid hauler is designed to cope well with the arduous conditions typi- cally encountered in mining. Volvo CE believes the ROPS/FOPS-certified operator cab of the R100E is industry leading. From the operator seat, located on the left side of the cab, the operator can observe the job site and surrounding areas through the large glass area and a low rake windscreen. Good visibility is complemented by a 360 deg surround view system provided by Volvo Smart View. The system uses multiple ultra-wide-angle exterior- mounted cameras to produce a bird’s-eye-view of the vehicle and surrounding work area via the on-board display. The R100E’s designers have gone to great lengths to ensure that maintenance can be carried out quickly and easily. All service points are strategically grouped and located within reach from the ground and service plat- form to provide quick, easy and safe machine maintenance or adjustments, while the direct rim-mounted wheel design promotes safe and quick installation and removal. Inside the cab, the operator can access top-level diagnostic

Volvo R60Ds in action. The R60D offers a payload of 60 tons (54,4 tonnes).

A significant investment was spent in

frame and body rigorous testing, which included applying 60 000 hours’ worth of chassis fatigue loads.

May 2018  MODERN MINING  23