High performing compact loaders from Kubota and Volvo CE

1265 Kubota, 5316 SDLG and 359 Volvo CE are now offering compact wheeled loaders that deliver more power and performance than earlier generation models. These compact wheeled loaders are intended to carry out a wide range of tasks and can be used for truck loading or stocking purposes, as well as an array of other duties. Tight turning circles mean that the machines are able to operate on small sites, while the units have long wheelbases for their overall dimensions, maximising stability when load carrying. Typical customers would include rental firms as well as asphalt plants, concrete plants and smaller quarrying operations, as well as general construction companies. The Kubota and Volvo CE models are aimed at customers in markets with tough restrictions on emissions, while the SDLG model has been designed for emerging markets such as India.

Kubota’s R082 slots into the range between the R065 and R085 and is said to offer optimum power for maximum productivity and efficiency. The machine can be used for a wide range of loading, lifting and moving tasks.

Powered by a reliable and economical 35kW Kubota diesel, the R082 is said to be rugged and durable as well as highly cost-effective. The diesel meets the latest emissions requirements for sale into the US and Europe. According to Kubota, the R082 is a powerful machine that features high breakout force, manoeuvrability and stability allowing it to offer high-performance and productivity. The R082 is offered with either a canopy or a full ROPS/FOPS cab, the former weighing 4.635tonnes and the latter tipping the scales at 4.8tonnes. Standard bucket capacity is 0.85m3 and the machine offers a maximum payload of 2tonnes.

The R082 has a long dumping reach and high dumping clearance for its class, suiting it to truck loading or stocking and handling duties on sites with restricted working conditions. The design of the tilt/parallel movement ensures that the load is kept upright when raising the arm, reducing bucket spillage. Meanwhile the differential lock system allows an operator the ability to engage both the front and rear wheels for slip-free traction. High-flow hydraulics allow the R082 wheeled loader to utilise an array of attachments, boosting the machine’s overall versatility and range of capabilities.

The cab is said to offer high comfort and ergonomic controls, as well as all-round visibility. Meanwhile the redesigned Z-bar linkage configuration allows for a good view of the bucket. Maintenance is said to be straightforward, as the engine cover at the rear opens wide, providing access to the main service areas. For security, the loader is also fitted with Kubota’s effective anti-theft system and only programmed keys allow the engine to start up. Any attempt to start the machine with an unprogrammed key will activate its alarm.

SDLG aims to meet strong demand for smaller capacity wheeled loaders in India. Its compact L936 and LG946L offer load capacities of 3tonnes and 4tonnes respectively. These units are already available in other Asia-Pacific markets and suit material handling, truck loading and stockpiling.

The L936L replaces the earlier LG936L and offers a maximum bucket capacity of 1.8m3 and tips the scales at 11.34tonnes. The larger LG946L has a maximum bucket capacity of 2.5m3 and weighs in at 13tonnes.

Volvo CE is offering the L20 and L25 loaders in H-Series variants, with increases in operating efficiency and reductions in fuel consumption and emissions. Both machines are said to be highly manoeuvrable and offer tight turning capabilities, allowing them to be operated in compact sites with limited space.

High reach is claimed, suiting the L20H and L25H to truck loading work, while the loaders can also be operated in a wide array of stocking and loading duties. The L20H weighs 4.48 tonnes and has a standard bucket of 0.7m3 while the L25H tips the scales at 4.92tonnes and has a standard bucket size of 0.85m3. Payloads for the machines are 1.8tonnes and 2.1tonnes respectively.

The L20H and L25H are designed to meet the latest emissions regulations, with both models powered by Tier 4 Final engines delivering 48kW. The engines have diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) technology, which eliminates the need for regeneration of additives. The loaders have fully automatic hydrostatic drive which has two speed settings, with the ability to reach maximum speeds of 30km/h.  To increase traction and stability on rough terrain, the L20H and L25H feature an articulated oscillating joint, as well as operator-activated 100% differential locks on front and rear axles.

The firm claims that the ROPS/FOPS cabs on the H-Series compact wheeled loaders offer all-around visibility as well as low noise and vibration levels for the operator. Easy operation is claimed due to the simple and ergonomic control layout. For precise control, the compact wheeled loaders are fitted with a single inching brake pedal, allowing operators to work at creep speed.

Volvo has a comprehensive range of attachments, specially designed for the compact wheeled loader range and matched to the machine’s linkage system, hydraulics and driveline. A special hitching system also allows an operator to change attachments quickly.

For operations that require demanding attachments, the optional high-flow hydraulics function can be engaged, delivering up to 200bar/110litres/minute.

To minimise downtime, routine maintenance and daily service checks are said to be quick and easy. Customers can also benefit from a range of services such as Genuine Volvo Parts, maintenance plans or CareTrack – the firm’s advanced telematics system. This last can be used to generate reports on fuel status, machine location and hours.