New Volvo PL3005E rotating pipelayer increases power and lifting capacity
As the latest addition to the lineup of Volvo E-Series rotating pipelayers, the PL3005E boasts impressive improvements to power, productivity and efficiency versus predecessor models, all on a 360-degree excavator-based platform.
Equipped with the Volvo D8J Tier 4 Final engine, the PL3005E offers a 6 percent increase in horsepower, 8 percent increase in max torque and 7 percent increase in lift capacity, all while offering 5 percent greater fuel efficiency and no increase in overall operating weight versus its predecessor model. When coupled with its excavator-based design, usability improvements to the Load Management System, enhanced telematics offerings, and new pipe-carrying and protection options, these improvements undoubtedly make the PL3005E the most productive pipelayer ever offered from Volvo in this size class.
“With a 55-ton tipping capacity, the PL3005E is a perfect fit for medium-sized pipe projects in the 12- to 24-inch diameter range,” says John Duff, product manager for pipelayers at Volvo. “In addition to all the E-series improvements, this machine is inherently more versatile and productive than a traditional sideboom dozer-style pipelayer, simply because of its excavator-based design and 360-degree swing capacity. Not only does it allow for more productive pipelaying and less repositioning, but it can serve as a dual-purpose machine with an optional excavator conversion kit — ensuring the machine is never underutilized.”
Dual-purpose production
Unlike traditional sideboom dozer-style pipelayers, the PL3005E can be easily transported between or around jobsites on a trailer or lowboy without having to disassemble the boom or counterweight. In as little as 2.5 hours, the PL3005E can be converted into a standard excavator, thereby offering the benefits of two machines in one, helping customers get the most out of their investment. Hydraulics perfectly matched for both pipelaying and digging applications means there is no loss of power in either configuration.
With 360-degree swing capacity, the operator can safely rotate the superstructure to lift and place large pipes anywhere around the machine with ease — making it especially useful for loading and unloading, and feeding pipe-bending machines. The pipelayer’s unique design provides the stability to work safely across rugged terrain and on slopes of up to 35 degrees. With smooth hydraulics for simultaneous movements, the PL3005E is a perfect choice for lowering-in applications. While operating on slopes, simply point the boom uphill to further improve stability and increase safety.
Safety in numbers
The PL3005E is packed with easy-to-use safety features that allow operators to get the job done safely and efficiently. Its innovative Load Management System (LMS) has been made even more user-friendly and convenient since its predecessor model. Its 7-inch display is now full colour and features intuitive graphics that are easy to understand and use. The operator receives machine load information on the display, as well as visual and auditory signals when the load limit is reached, taking into account the slope on which the machine is working. Three LED lights (green, yellow and red) on either side of the boom indicate load status to other operators and the lowering-in foreman. Another safety feature of the LMS includes the mechanical anti two-block system, which uses a wire sensor to prevent the winch blocks from coming into contact during lifting.
In addition to the updated LMS, the PL3005E also features new safety-enhancing pipe-carrying and protection options, including added boom padding and a bar to hold the end of the pipe during machine travel for improved safety.
Remotely supported
Regardless of where the job takes you, the PL3005E is supported by Volvo through available technology and outstanding dealer support. The machine comes standard with the Volvo CareTrack® telematics system, which monitors information on a variety of machine data points in real time, and provides remote alerts to the fleet manager, allowing for improved service scheduling, preventive maintenance and fleet utilization. For those fleet managers who see the benefit in telematics but don’t have the time or resources to manage a telematics program, Volvo is introducing ActiveCare Direct — a 24/7/365 monitoring and fleet utilization reporting service offered directly from Volvo and supported through the local dealer network. ActiveCare Direct service is available free for one year with select new machine purchases, including the PL3005E. Learn more at volvoce.com/ActiveCareDirect.
Additionally, the PL3005E is backed by the Volvo 24-Hour Parts Guarantee, which guarantees Class 1 parts delivery within 24 hours in the United States, including Alaska, and within 48 hours to Canada and Hawaii.
Along with advanced telematics and unbeatable parts availability, Volvo offers customizable support agreements (CSAs) from their North American dealer network. Creating strong relationships between a dealer and customer, CSAs are tailored to a customer’s needs and beneficial to their profitability and productivity, enabling full optimization of the fleet.
