Volvo CE has launched an upgraded version of its L350H wheeled loader, which the manufacturer says is suitable for a range of applications from mining and quarrying to heavy infrastructure – while also providing greater productivity and fuel efficiency, plus lower service costs.
It adds that the L350H comes prepared for heavy-duty applications due to the Z-bar lifting arm with double sealing on each of the pins, and strong frame structure, which is joined by a reinforced upper centre hinge and new Volvo axles.
Improvements include a more responsive hydraulics system, featuring new lift and tilt cylinders, and an increased hydraulic working pressure that allows for 10% faster work cycles and higher productivity.
The upgraded driveline features new axles and an all-new transmission which enables the third generation OptiShift to be equipped as standard. Already found on Volvo L150H-L260H wheeled loaders, Volvo says this technology integrates the Reverse by Braking function and the lock up function in transmission to boost fuel efficiency by up to 15%.
Efficiency is further enhanced by an optimised gear shifting ratio and the new converter, which delivers higher outputs resulting in up to 22% more tractive force depending on selected gear and machine speed.
The machine also features an even tougher form due to a new, more robust upper centre hinge bearing and updated frames to accommodate the new axles and transmission.
Volvo says that customers can keep working with the updated L350H for longer and reduce costs thanks to extended service intervals – doubled to 4,000 hours for an axle oil change, made possible by an axle oil cooler with filtration fitted as standard.
In addition, machine downtime can be reduced and component life increased with features including heavy-duty axles with fully floating shafts, planetary hub reduction, and maintenance-free rear axle trunnion bearings.
As well as its standard remote-controlled door opening, air-conditioning, and secondary steering system, Volvo says the upgraded L350H also provides outstanding visibility complemented by the optional electrically adjusted heated rearview mirrors, along with the rearview camera and radar detect system.
Operators can configure the machine according to the job with a choice of three hydraulic modes, customisable lockup engagement and rimpull control, while the bucket leveling function automatically returns the bucket to level, from both dump and curl positions, helping to reduce operator fatigue.
