Volvo’s High-Lift has logs firmly in its grasp

The new L180G High-Lift wheel loader from Volvo Construction Equipment features a high lift arm system that offers considerably extended height when stacking, longer reach and stability in log handling operations compared to standard loaders. Fitted with a grapple rotation function that allows the load to rotate 360^o, the extra lift height, reach and maneuverability allows operators to reduce log storage areas considerably.

Featuring a sleek new design, new engine and driveline system for improved productivity, lower emissions, greater smoothness, serviceability and operator comfort, the L180G High-Lift is part of the new generation G-Series wheel loaders from Volvo. Capable of reaching a lift height of 5.8m under closed grapple, the new L180G High-Lift’s tilt arm design allows good visibility of the work area. With grapples that range in size from 3.2m² to 3.8m², the new model can cope with even the biggest (or smallest) logs. Loading and unloading timber is both fast and safe, and the additional stability when running with a load allows high average ground speeds.

Reduced emissions – on the move

The L180G High-Lift is fitted with an advanced, electronically controlled engine that is married to drive train, hydraulics and lifting arm systems that are all designed and produced by Volvo to work in perfect, productive, fuel efficient, harmony. Fitted with Volvo’s 13 litre, six cylinder turbocharged off-highway diesel engine, it features four valves per cylinder, overhead camshafts and electronically controlled fuel injectors. It also has a three stage air cleaning system and a fuel efficient hydrostatic, electronically controlled fan.

Producing 246 kW (334 hp), this units provide high torque at low engine speeds. The Volvo D13 engine leads the industry in terms of fuel efficiency, reliability and noise. The production of torque and power at low engine speeds removes the need to overrun the engine, which in turn extends engine life as well as lowering fuel usage and dramatically reducing noise.

Coping with the extra pressure

Load sensing hydraulics deliver power to hydraulic functions only when needed, without unnecessary oil pumping. Two strong, variable displacement load-sensing axial piston pumps provide superior control of the load and grapple, as well as faster lifting and tilt functions. A new hydraulic cooling system has been designed to reduce the working temperatures by up to 20^oC over previous models. Also, the hydraulic oil-return filter has improved from 20 microns to 10 microns to further protect the pumps from potential contamination.

All made by Volvo, the powertrain is designed to work in harmony for optimum performance. Engines, transmissions, drivelines, heavy-duty axles, hydraulics – all are optimized to not only match each other, but to ensure maximum performance and reliability. Transmissions feature the company’s exceptional Volvo Automatic Power Shift (APS) concept, which ensures the loader always operates in the optimal 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.

Up to 15% fuel savings

Consisting of a new torque converter with Lock Up and free wheel stator, Optishift is a new system that integrates the Volvo patented Reverse-by-Braking (RBB) function – significantly reducing fuel consumption – by up to 15% – as well as increasing operator comfort and driveline durability. When changing from forward to reverse (or vice versa), RBB applies the standard service brake instead of the torque converter, bringing the machine to a halt and putting less stress on the converter and transmission. OptiShift can significantly reduce fuel consumption in operations such as load and carry – as well as in short cycle loading. The driveline lock up, meanwhile, improves drive response, rimpull & incline performance and fuel efficiency.

Industry-leading CareCab

The latest generation Volvo Care Cab fitted to these wheel loaders extends its already legendary status. ROPS/FOPS approved, the all-round visibility in the spacious new cabin is excellent, as it is 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 in hand in a comfortable, clean, low-noise and vibration work environment. The servo controls are mounted on the operator seat, and to encourage operators to work smoothly, the accelerator pedal applies an appropriate amount of mechanical back pressure, to encourage low fuel consumption operating techniques.

Maintaining and repair made easy

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 analyses 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.

Servicing is made easy with the G-Series, with daily pre-start items quickly checked and scheduled service items conveniently grouped together. The L180G High-Lift is fitted with a newly designed engine cover that provides better ventilation of the engine compartment. The cover can be electronically opened backwards – giving 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.

Volvo genuine options and attachments

The L180G High-Lift comes with a large number of genuine Volvo options and attachments that are suited to log handling application, including log pusher, headlight and radiator grille guards. Other options include fire suppression systems, rear view camera and comfort drive control – where operators can switch from steering wheel operation to a joystick mounted on the armrest, useful in repetitive short duty work cycles.