Redesigned Backhoe Loaders From Volvo Construction Equipment Combine Two Machines in One Unit

Wed August 10, 2011
Agricultural Equipment Guide

With the launch of its new BL60B and BL70B, Volvo Construction Equipment has thoroughly redesigned its backhoe loader range — offering improved performance, usability and a modern appearance, according to the manufacturer. The machine combines in a single, stable platform the strength and simplicity of a Volvo wheel loader with the power and performance of a Volvo excavator.

With an average operating weight that ranges from 17,500 to 19,500 lbs. (7,938 to 8,845 kg), and gross power of 83 to 98 hp (62 to 73 kW), the BL60B and BL70B were designed and built with power, strength, long life and cost saving efficiency in mind.

Loader and Boom

The one piece chassis, loader arm and excavator boom are all made from high quality steel and robotically welded, giving precise, constant weld runs for structural integrity. The loader arm has a box-welded design and is reinforced with a cross tube. The larger excavator boom has a narrow, tall arch design that is inherently strong, and uses a closed box-welded approach with fewer components and welds, for durability and performance. The boom allows visibility into the trench, as well as enabling closer proximity to the truck for loading. The cast iron kingpost offers flexibility of movement and swing.

Control in Your Hands

Compared to previous models, the new BL60B and BL70B feature new controls. The machines are fitted with two floor-mounted ergonomic levers that give optimum grip for the operator’s hand movements when operating the excavator. The right lever is fitted with a horn for safety, and the left lever can have an optional fingertip button. This button controls the two-way auxiliary hydraulic line required when using double acting excavator attachments.

Fitted with either 16.5 or 18-in. (42 or 45.7 cm) front tires, these machines have a small turning radius and are extremely maneuverable, as well as easier to position on site. Helped by a new cast bucket linkage design, the bucket can rotate 205 degrees — allowing vertical digging in all positions without repositioning the machine.

Delivering the Power

The BL60B and BL70B both include the latest D5D four cylinder 4.8 L Volvo engines, with direct injection and turbo charging. These high torque, fuel efficient engines meet the requirements of the Tier III emissions legislation. The torque converter on these machines is one of the largest in the industry and has enhanced peak torque and torque rise. A differential lock on the rear axle is engaged via a foot switch on the side of the brake pedal and provides maximum rear wheel grip over slippery surfaces.

Both the loader and excavator benefit from flow sharing hydraulics that enable multi-functioning for efficient and smooth operation. The BL70B features load sensing hydraulics that constantly adapt to the needs of the job at hand. With oil delivery that matches the required force, there is always the speed and power required for all hydraulic functions. In applications such as load and carry, where speed is important, the system efficiently delivers the required flow.

Improved Care Cab

Boasting 15 percent more space than before, the room between the operator’s seat and the left side of the cab has been increased, as has space around the excavator mechanical controls or pilot towers, making the position change between loader and excavator easier and more convenient. There also is a larger area to store personal items. The seat, steering controls and instruments are all designed to lower fatigue and keep operators alert and in control.

Comfort can be increased further with a multi-adjustable steering column and high performance heating and cooling systems. A 30 percent increase in glass area combined with narrow pillars and a sloping hood design allow added visibility. Visibility is enhanced outside the cab by adjustable standard-fit halogen work lights and internally by a large cab dome light for safer entry and exit of the cab.

Tools for Every Job

Both ends of the machine can be equipped with versatile, easy-to-use attachments and quick couplers. B-Series backhoe loaders can be configured with general or multi-purpose loader buckets, pallet forks, hydraulic thumb, standard and heavy-duty excavator buckets, hydraulic breaker attachments — a vast range of solutions.

Service and daily maintenance are made easy with the B-Series, with a one piece lifting hood and filters/service points all grouped together at ground level. Fewer greasing points and long greasing intervals also help to increase uptime. A tilting oil cooler in front of the radiator makes cleaning both the cooler and the radiator quick and easy.

Genuine Service

Volvo Construction Equipment provides much more than a vast range of attachments and genuine service and maintenance products. Advanced machines need support in order to maximize uptime, productivity and resale values. A wide range of service plans are available, as are analysis and diagnostics tools.

Both models have gone through rigorous testing to ensure they measure up to the daily challenges of a variety of jobs, including deep trenching, heavy lifting, loading, craning and roading, according to the manufacturer.

For more information, call 828/650-2000 or visit www.volvo.com.

This story also appears on Construction Equipment Guide.