Volvo offers intelligent compaction system as an optional fitment in the machine
At Volvo, we offer customers the lowest cost of operation. We are constantly innovating to make equipment fuel-efficient, with reducing emissions and environmental impact, says AM Muralidharn, President, Volvo India. Excerpts from the interview.

Tell us about the main features of Volvo DD100 asphalt compactor.
The Volvo large asphalt compactor reflects the tradition of continuous innovation in response to customer needs. These compactors include advanced designs in compaction parameters, operator comfort and visibility, and the industry's best water system. Eight amplitude settings are easily adjusted by the operator, allowing for frequent changes as conditions vary, including adjustments for dynamic drum force and drum amplitude. Nine frequency selections are easily selected from the operator's electronic vibration control, allowing the matching of machine performance to production requirements. Automatic reversal of eccentrics frees the operator from the task of changing the rotation, automatically matching the direction of travel, improving mat smoothness with less material distortion.

Auto vibration cut-off automatically engages or disengages when an operator-selected upper and lower respective travel speed threshold has been reached.

Impact spacing meter allows the operator to easily monitor the machine's impact spacing with a control panel mounted meter. It permits adjustments for travel speeds, allowing the maintenance of the proper impact spacing needed for asphalt smoothness.

180o position rotatable operator canopy for better visibility of drum edges and rubber isolated operator's platform reduces the effect of machine vibrations on the operator, decreasing fatigue for greater operator comfort, safety and prolonged productivity. Industry leading dual water spray system provides a consistent water flow to the drum surfaces.

ROPS canopy provides peace of mind and safety by protecting the operator in the event of a machine roll-over.

Which range, in terms of tonnage and horsepower is moving fastest in India?
As per the guidelines of the road authorities, 11-tonne soil compactors and 8-10 tonne asphalt compactors are being recommended for road compaction jobs.

What are the unique features of the Volvo SD110 soil compactor?
Volvo designs soil compactors with many innovative features that provide for excellent drum performance, serviceability, reliability, and ensure a safe, comfortable environment for the operator.

  • Volvo smooth-drum and padfoot-drum models are engineered to efficiently and effectively compact all types of soils, from granular to cohesive ones.
  • Powerful, fuel-efficient, water-cooled Volvo D5 engine meets Bharat Stage-III emission compliance and delivers 133 HP for increase performance.
  • Infinitely variable drum vibration frequencies from 0-30 Hz are easily adjustable from the operator's console, allowing for adjustments for changing soil types and conditions, increasing performance and versatility.
  • Enhanced tractive efforts are accomplished by a no-spin differential axle meets demanding job site conditions.
  • Stable maneuverability helps maintain the drum with the surface, aided by an articulation joint that provides ?17o oscillation angle and frame articulation of ?40o.
  • - High and low drum amplitude is easily selected from the operator control panel, allowing for versatile adjustment of the dynamic drum force due to changing conditions.
  • 1m x 1m visibility all around the machine increases jobsite safety between the operator and ground crew personnel.
  • ROPS canopy provides peace of mind and safety by protecting the operator in the event of a machine roll-over.

What is the role the operators play here?
Operators play a major role in achieving a quality compaction job within the stipulated time frame. Utilisation of the machine as per recommended practices is vital to achieving better performance and efficiency of the machine. Addressing the current industry's concern of lack of trained operators, Volvo is conducting operator training programmes at their Customer Centre in Hosakote, Bengaluru, on a regular basis.