The latest additions to the G-Series wheel loaders from Volvo Construction Equipment are the versatile L60G, L70G and L90G mid-sized machines. Not only does their loader arms’ patented TP linkage offer superior breakout and lifting forces, they also remain perfectly parallel throughout the lifting range – ensuring exceptional load stability. This combination of power throughout the lift cycle, parallel movement and long reach makes the L60G, L70G and L90G ideal in materials handling jobs and where fast work cycles are needed. Suitable for a wide range of other applications, these site workhorses can change tools in a matter of moments, thanks to Volvo’s hydraulic attachment bracket.
The L60G, L70G and L90G all enjoy the modern stylistic overhaul of the rest of the G-Series range. This includes a new electrically operated sloping engine hood design that improves rear visibility considerably and, when opened, provides a wide access to the engine compartment, making servicing and repairs easier.
These new machines meet the requirements of the Stage IIIB (in Europe) and Tier 4i (in the US) emissions legislation that came into force on January 1st 2011. The L60G, L70G and L90G are all fitted with Volvo’s six-litre, six-cylinder turbocharged V-ACT (Volvo Advanced Combustion Technology) off-highway diesel engine, which features cooled gas recirculation and a particulate filter with active regeneration. The active-type diesel particulate filter (DPF) temporarily holds the particulate matter and then incinerates it, further reducing emissions. This process is conducted without any loss of performance or operation. Producing between 120 and 129 kW (163-175 hp), depending on the model, these three units provide high torque at low engine speeds.
As well as meeting the low emissions requirements of the legislation, the D6 engine also leads the industry in terms of fuel efficiency, reliability and noise. The production of torque and power at low engine speeds, combined with load-sensing hydraulics, removes the need to overrun the engine, which in turn extends engine life, lowers fuel usage and dramatically reduces noise. Fuel use and noise are also reduced, thanks to a hydraulically driven, electronically controlled fan, which is only activated when needed.
These new engines are matched to drivetrain, hydraulics and lifting systems that are all designed and produced by Volvo for improved productivity, lower emissions, greater smoothness, serviceability and operator comfort. That’s not all – the L90G-model also features a 23% increase in lifting force and 19% improvement in breakout force. The improvement ensures smooth, full buckets – resulting in faster cycle times and increased productivity.
Load-sensing hydraulics deliver power to hydraulic functions only when needed, eliminating unnecessary oil pumping. Fitted with high capacity axial piston pumps with variable flow, the working hydraulic pressure has been increased from 26 MPa to 31 MPa, providing superior control of the load and attachments, as well as higher breakout forces, and faster lift and tilt functions.
Transmissions feature the company’s exceptional Volvo Fully Automatic Power Shift (FAPS) concept, which ensures the loader always operates in the ideal gear by sensing engine and travel speed, kick-down, engine braking and other factors. Offering operators a choice of four gear-shifting programs, APS results in more efficient work cycles with lower fuel consumption and wear. Power is delivered to the ground through heavy duty wet brake axles that offer high rim pull. In difficult terrain, operators can select the differential lock in order to transfer 100% of the available drive to the wheels, reducing tire slippage and offering maximum traction in soft or slippery conditions. Axle housings absorb all loadings from the machine, thereby reducing working stresses on the axle shafts for longer life.
Volvo’s patented Torque Parallel (TP) linkage combines the benefits of Z-bar and Parallel linkages in one system, delivering good parallel movement and high breakout force, even in the highest lift position. Featuring fewer welds, the TP linkage has a strong and durable design that is designed to withstand tough conditions.
The latest generation Volvo cab fitted to the L60G, L70G and L90G extends its already legendary status. ROPS/FOPS approved, visibility in the spacious new cabin is excellent, to the rear, to the bucket edge – and to the centrally located instrumentation. With controls that fall easily to hand, operators can breathe easily thanks to efficient air-management and filtering systems – and get on with the job at hand in a comfortable, clean, low-noise, low-vibration work environment. The servo controls are mounted in an adjustable console, and pilot-operated hydraulics enable attachments to be easily controlled, with minimal effort and high precision. Also, to encourage operators to work smoothly, the ‘eco’ accelerator pedal applies an appropriate amount of mechanical back pressure, encouraging low fuel consumption operating techniques. Fuel use is also reduced, thanks to a load-sensing steering system, which only activates when the steering wheel is turned.
The G-Series comes with advanced electronic monitoring diagnostics that are designed to prolong machine life, enhance uptime and maximize productivity. Contronics monitors functions in real time and alerts the operator if problems occur. MATRIS, meanwhile, charts and analyzes data on machine handling and operation. VCADS Pro is a system that allows a machine to be fine-tuned to specific applications, further improving performance. Finally, CareTrack, the Volvo Construction Equipment telematics system, allows machine location and operating data to be securely viewed via the internet from anywhere in the world, aiding fast decisions on maintenance and repairs.
Servicing is made easy with the G-Series, with daily pre-start items quickly checked and scheduled service items conveniently grouped together. The new-look engine cover also provides better ventilation of the engine compartment. It gives good access for fast and easy cleaning or servicing duties. Centralized, ground-level lubrication banks lower the time spent on scheduled maintenance. And consumables like filters are easy to reach and easy to replace. The rear axles are supported on maintenance-free cradles and include greased-for-life bearings and bushings that reduce service requirements.
The G-Series comes with a large number of Volvo attachments to suit the application. And not just buckets – there is a wide range of other attachments available, as well as attachment brackets that make changing tools fast and easy. All designed and approved by Volvo to work in perfect harmony with the machines’ link-arm geometry, breakout, rim pull, and lifting forces.
Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communication
Regions Asia and China
Volvo Construction Equipment
E-mail: tiffany.cheng@volvo.com
Head of Strategic Communications
Volvo Construction Equipment
Email: asa.alstrom@volvo.com
Model | L60G | L70G | L90G |
Engine | D6H | D6H | D6H |
Max. power at | 23.3-30.0 r/s
(1400 – 1800r/min) |
23.3-28.3 r/s
(1400 – 1700r/min) |
23.3-28.3 r/s
(1400 – 1700r/min) |
ISO 9249, SAEJ1349 net | 120 kW (163 hp) | 126 kW (171 hp) | 129 kW (175 hp) |
Breakout force | 82,9 kN* | 95,3 kN** | 141,3 kN*** |
Static tipping load at full turn | 7440 kg* | 8460 kg** | 9530 kg*** |
Buckets | 1.6-5.0 m3 | 1.8-6.4 m3 | 2.2-7.0 m3 |
Log grapples | 0.7-1.3 m3 | 0.9-1.5 m3 | 1.3-2.4 m3 |
Operating weight | 11.0-13.6 t | 12.7-15.5 t | 14.5-17.3 t |
Tires | 17.5R25, 20.5R25
600/65R25 |
20.5R25
600/65R25 |
20.5R25
650/65R25 |
*The L60G, L70G & L90G are available in North America, Europe and selected International markets.