In heavy hauling, tonnes per hour is key. Throughput isn’t just a metric; it’s profitability. On tough projects where conditions are extreme, the focus is on a machine that can deliver every time. That’s where Volvo haulers’ tonnes per hour comes in, giving you a competitive edge that translates to a more productive and cost-effective operation.
The Tough Stuff
Heavy haulers face a lot of challenges on a typical site: steep grades, soft or uneven ground, long hauls in extreme temperatures and full payloads. These conditions can push lesser machines to the limit, increasing fuel consumption, reducing cycle times and more breakdowns. Volvo articulated haulers (ADTs) are designed to overcome these obstacles with a range of features for maximum uptime and efficiency.
Volvo Strengths: Engineered for Performance
Volvo ADTs are built with specific features to excel in the toughest environments.
Traction and Suspension: Volvo’s bogie system and all-wheel drive gives exceptional traction, so the hauler won’t slip on soft or slippery ground. This reduces slippage and allows the machine to power through difficult ground conditions without getting stuck. The suspension provides stability when the truck is fully loaded on uneven ground, which minimises spillage and protects the chassis.
Power and Torque Curves: The engines in Volvo haulers deliver high torque at low engine speeds. This gives the power to climb steep grades with a full load without over-revving and conserves fuel. The optimised power curve means the machine can handle heavy loads with less strain, which reduces wear on the powertrain.
Retarders and Brakes: On a long downhill grade the hauler’s brakes are critical for safety and efficiency. Volvo ADTs have a powerful retarder system that helps control the machine’s speed on descents, reducing wear on the service brakes and increasing their life.
Fuel Efficiency: The Cost-Saving Advantage
Beyond raw performance, Volvo ADT’s fuel efficiency is a critical factor for profitability. Volvo’s latest generation of ADTs is engineered to deliver significant fuel savings, with some models offering up to a 15% improvement depending on the application. This is achieved through a combination of cutting-edge technologies.
Advanced Engine and Drivetrain: Volvo ADTs feature advanced PACCAR engines with variable geometry turbochargers. This, combined with an in-house developed transmission and new electronic system, optimises fuel use across all working conditions. The Terrain Memory feature, for instance, helps the drivetrain select the best gear for a given terrain, ensuring superb fuel efficiency without compromising on power.
Digital Solutions: Volvo’s digital solutions like Haul Assist and Volvo Co-Pilot give operators the tools to work smarter. Real-time payload data prevents overloading, reducing fuel consumption and machine wear. The system helps operators track performance metrics, which helps reduce idle time and ultimately saves fuel.
The Match-Up: Optimising the Load
You can’t separate the performance of a hauler from the machine that loads it. A perfect match-up between the hauler and an excavator or wheel loader is key to optimising wheel loader cycle times. The goal is to fill the hauler in the minimum number of bucket passes, full and evenly distributed. This reduces the time the hauler spends idling while being loaded and keeps the material flowing.
A Focus on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
To measure the true efficiency of a hauler you need to look beyond the numbers. KPIs like tonnes per hour, fuel per tonne and cycle variance give a more accurate picture of a machine’s productivity. Tracking these metrics helps you identify inefficiencies and make data-driven decisions to optimise the whole hauling operation.
The Operational Playbook
To be productive you need a smart operational strategy. A well designed haul route minimises travel distance and avoids unnecessary grades. A planned dump strategy means haulers can dump quickly and safely. Effective speed management means operators can maintain the right pace, reduce fuel consumption and prevent tyre wear.
Size Your Fleet with Babcock
In the end the ability of Volvo ADTs to keep the material flowing in the toughest conditions makes them a valuable asset. Their design combined with a smart operational plan means high tonnes per hour performance, so you can move more with less. This is the Volvo haulers’ tonnes per hour advantage. Contact Babcock to find out how you can right-size your fleet for maximum productivity.
