Volvo L260H: Profit in every bucket

The first to present a 35 tonne wheel loader to the market in 2011 – with the L250G – Volvo Construction Equipment now introduces the L260H, the latest addition to the H-Series range. Built in response to evolving business demands, the 35-tonne machine is designed for heavy-duty applications and has been upgraded with the latest technology.

Up up up!

When compared to its forerunner, the numbers speak for themselves. The L260H boasts up to 15% greater productivity, thanks to the intelligently redesigned wheel base, which has been increased by 50mm, and the optimized weight distribution of the front frame and lifting arm system; together, these two features allow for larger buckets to be used.

Primed for productivity, the L260H is equipped with a powerful D13 engine, delivering 6% more power and 5% more torque than the L250G. The next generation load sensing hydraulics have been designed to enhance the responsiveness of attachments and improve the lifting and lowering speed of the boom. For faster cycle times, the new HTL310 transmission works in harmony with the powerful engine and axles, and the new converter delivers increased torque output, resulting in better performance. Moreover, steps between gears have been reduced, for faster acceleration.

Fuel efficiency has been increased by up to 10%, thanks to a host of improved features. The next generation hydraulics save hydraulic pump power for other functions, by reducing fluid flow when lowering and dumping; and the new dry P-Brake eliminates drag losses, caused by the internal wet multi-disk brake. In addition, the upgraded OptiShift technology integrates the Reverse By Braking (RBB) function – patented by Volvo – and new torque converter with lock-up, creating a direct drive between the engine and transmission, reducing fuel consumption significantly.

Also contributing to fuel efficiency is Fully Automatic Power Shift (FAPS), which shifts the gears to match the engine and travel speed to the best gear ratio. The L260H is also equipped with an eco pedal – a feature unique to Volvo – which encourages economical operation by applying a mechanical push-back force in response to excess use of the accelerator.

Profit in every bucket

The L260H comes with four new buckets – the Volvo Rock bucket, Volvo Sand bucket and two Volvo Rehandling buckets – specifically designed to fit the machine. Optimized for the application, the buckets enable the wheel loader to perform at maximum capacity, helping customers save time, money and effort.

The Volvo Rock bucket now boasts a longer floor and can hold 11.5% more material than before, resulting in greater productivity. For tunneling applications, Volvo also offers Side Dump Rock buckets.

Optimized for handling sand or small fragments of aggregate, the 6.6 m³ Volvo Sand bucket is the ideal choice for soft underfoot conditions. The long bucket floor maximizes penetration for improved traction, while the flat design helps to maintain a clean and level work area.

The redesigned 7.3 m³ Volvo Rehandling bucket is easier to fill, and the new convex sides minimize spillage, for up to 5% greater productivity. To optimize the L260H for load and carry applications, the optional Boom Suspension System automatically engages, to help reduce bouncing. In addition, Volvo also offers a selection of Rehandling packages.

With Load Assist, a dynamic load weighing system, customers can manage their work orders and easily monitor productivity. Powered by the 10in Volvo Co-Pilot touchscreen, Load Assist monitors the amount of material moved, to make sure there is profit in every bucket.

Greater comfort, greater performance

Built to work hard, the L260H is uniquely designed to deliver an efficient work environment. With the option of either single or multi levers and a choice of three hydraulic modes – according to preferred responsiveness – the L260H can be customized to enhance comfort and productivity. Additionally, the new bucket leveling function allows the bucket to automatically return to level, from both dump and curl positions, to reduce operator fatigue. For added convenience, Comfort Drive Control (CDC) allows the machine to be steered from a small lever. Moreover, the new ISRI premium adjustable seat can be selected, to reduce fatigue.

Visibility from the cab has been improved by new rear view mirrors, and an optional rear view camera can also be added, which works with the radar detect system to provide the operator with a visual and audible alert, notifying them of nearby objects.

Locked and loaded

Offering strength in demanding applications, the L260H has been built with durability in mind and designed for easy serviceability. Volvo’s proven Z-bar linkage provides high breakout force, enabling fully loaded buckets to be elevated to maximum height. For long lasting performance, the lifting arm has double sealing on each of the pins. The strong frame structure is ideally-matched to Volvo powertrain and features a hydraulically-driven cooling fan, to regulate component temperature; the fan also automatically reverses to self-clean the cooling units. To reduce component wear, delayed engine shutdown can be scheduled to activate automatically. The new function turns off the machine when the turbo charger has cooled down to the appropriate temperature.

The L260H offers industry leading serviceability and easy maintenance, to promote high uptime. The cab can be tilted to either a 30º or 70º angle, providing unrestricted access to vital components, and the engine can be reached through electronically operated, wide-opening engine hood. Moreover, the Boom Suspension accumulators are now located on the outside of the front frame and the P-brake is external, for easier access and increased component life. In addition, handrails and steps have been painted orange, to help maintenance staff and operators navigate their way around the machine.

Volvo also offers a range of services to boost efficiency. Genuine Volvo Parts, Proactive Monitoring, operator training and Volvo Site Simulation are just some of the many solutions, designed to ensure the L260H maximizes return on investment for owners.

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