In the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal, an R100E rigid hauler from Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) is proving a reliable, productive and profitable member of Sandton Plant Hire’s fleet.
Since the 95 t payload hauler was delivered in August 2017, it has racked up 7 625 engine hours, working 20 – 22 hours a day at an anthracite mine, moving overburden, topsoil, and blasted rock in hot, humid, and corrosive conditions.
“Our operators like the R100E because it is simple to operate and has a comfortable and ergonomic cab,” says Craig Mottram, operations manager at Sandton Plant Hire.
The biggest benefits to Sandton Plant Hire, however, are the Volvo R100E rigid hauler’s high productivity, low fuel consumption and low maintenance requirements, which have combined to deliver a low total cost of ownership and operation (TCO) over the last few years.
The design of the 60,4 m3 capacity body ensures optimum load retention and minimal carry-back, while the best-in-class rimpull and ability of the hauler to navigate tough ground conditions and gradients easily ensure fast cycle times.
The Volvo Dynamic Shift Control builds on the already efficient engine to adapt transmission gearshift patterns automatically, according to varying conditions, ensuring a smooth, consistent ride and low fuel consumption.
A low center of gravity and even weight distribution ensure the heavy-duty machine spreads the load, as well as any impacts and structural stresses, equally across the truck. At the same time, all components have been tested rigorously under extreme conditions to achieve longevity. Certain features, such as the neutral cost inhibitor, overspeed protection and transmission retarder, help prevent unnecessary wear for extended service intervals, lower maintenance costs and increased uptime.
“The low fuel consumption and maintenance make the R100E cheaper to operate than other rigid haulers in our fleet,” says Mottram.
Sandton Plant Hire operates a vast fleet of machines including hundreds of Volvo wheel loaders and articulated haulers, as well as a substantial fleet of rigid haulers. The company has worked with the local Volvo dealer Babcock for over 25 years for the supply and service of mining and construction equipment.