Modern Quarrying Q2 2019

WHEEL LOADER EFFICIENCY – THE DRIVELINE’S INFLUENCE Wheel loaders play a huge role at quarries and their efficiency is key to overall productivity of operations. It is generally agreed that choice of a wheel loader’s driveline plays a big role in the overall efficiency of the machine. With various driveline options available, what should influence the choice of a driveline when it is buying time? By Munesu Shoko .

LOADING – WHEEL LOADERS

T he choice of a driveline is one of the principal influencers of a wheel loader’s efficiency on site. How important is the driveline choice when it comes to wheel loader efficiency? 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. Schmitt reasons that the choice of a driveline 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 and 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

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MODERN QUARRYING QUARTER 2 - 2019