The P8820C ABG tracked paver from Volvo Construction Equipment can pave widths up to 42.7 ft. (13 m), while the P7820C ABG paves up to 36 ft. (11 m). Both machines combine power and precision — delivering a perfectly smooth mat, even in demanding conditions, such as steep hills.
Designed as global paving products, the only differing feature is the engine, made to comply with local market requirements. In North America, pavers are powered by the newest Volvo engine — a D8 Tier IV interim emissions-compliant, six-cylinder, 7-L engine. The P7820C is equipped with a 235 hp (175 kW) engine while the P8820C possesses 268 hp (200 kW); both engines offer high power and low noise and fuel consumption.
Designed for Fuel Economy
These Volvo pavers were designed to maximize fuel economy, conserving fuel without affecting operation through an operator-selected smart power mode. If engaged, the smart power mode immediately lowers power to 1,600 rpm, reducing fuel consumption by up to 30 percent, according to the manufacturer.
Noise level also is noticeably lower due to quieter engines, sound lowering components and a robust frame. In some cases, such as when using the smart power feature, a 50 percent reduction in noise levels can be realized, decreasing public annoyance when working in urban areas, and greatly reducing operator fatigue.
Throughput, Power, Visibility and Control
The P8820C can pave up to 42.7 ft. (13 m) and place 1,212 tons (1,100 t) per hour, while the P7820C can pave up to 36 ft. (11 m) and place up to 992 tons (900 t) per hour. These high levels of throughput make the P8820C and P7820C suitable for a wide range of applications, from municipal roads and highways to waste storage areas. They also prove versatile in their ability to pave a range of materials, including all kinds of wearing, binder and base courses, roller-compacted concrete, and frost protection layers including cement-treated base.
A large, ergonomically designed cab provides operators with comfort as well as all-around visibility. A direct view into the hopper, auger channel and work area provides optimum conditions for high-quality paving. The seat position can be adjusted, as can the control panel. The central control panel can swivel, tilt and extend, and also features the latest electronic paver management II (EPM II) system.
Controlling all paving processes, EPM II intuitively guides the operator through working functions. Operators can select menus for engine data which are displayed clearly on a large color screen in multiple languages. EPM II also monitors fuel consumption and contains a service interval manager and settings manager. The service interval manager alerts the operator when required maintenance is due. The settings manager allows operators to save settings in the system, which can be recalled in the future when similar conditions are present. This reduces set-up times, improves productivity and ensures a consistent mat quality. For security, the EPM II console, screed control panel and auxiliary control panel can be removed and stored in a lockable compartment when not in use.
Perfect Paving — Performance and Quality
Volvo models offer fixed and variable extending screeds, providing performance in terms of quality, uniformity, texture, density and smoothness. Not only does this significantly reduce the need for subsequent roller compaction, the screeds also contribute to a smoother and more even mat, according to the manufacturer.
The screeds can be used on bituminous, concrete base, aggregate and railway ballast material. Extensions can be added or removed in minutes — no special tools required — using the Volvo quick coupling system. Variomatic (variable extending) screeds have a dual-electric heating bar arrangement to provide consistent and reliable heating. Volvo fixed width screeds feature an efficient gas heating system and can be fitted with fixed and variable extensions. A screed load device prevents paving bumps by exerting pressure on the screed for a short period after paving starts.
Paving efficiency is assisted by the large hopper design, which works in combination with the conveyor and large folding wings to avoid segregation, ensuring a consistent mix of materials and uninterrupted material flow (avoiding stops and starts). The P7820C hopper capacity is 29,760 lbs. (13,500 kg) of material, while the P8820C capacity is 30,860 lbs. (14,000 kg). An optional front hopper apron empties material at the front of the hopper into the conveyor system — all but eliminating over-spill. Independent, reversible hydrostatic drives, for both bar conveyors and augers, ensure paving material is evenly distributed to both sides of the screed. The optimum head of material is maintained in the auger channel by adjusting the height, speed and direction of the augers. This larger volume of throughput supports optimum mat quality regardless of width, thickness or paving speed, as well as continuous paving, such as under bridges.
Getting the Power Down
Wide contact area crawler tracks combined with good weight distribution create an effective transfer of engine power to the road. The rubber pad-clad crawler units are maintenance free and feature individual, electronically-controlled drives for each track. A system monitors track movement and controls motor response to ensure both straight line and fixed radius work is accurate. These — combined with good weight distribution — ensure an efficient paving process. Smooth and precise control of the electro-hydraulic steering is gained via an easy-to-use dial on the control panel.
These tracked pavers from Volvo are easy to maintain, with improved service access from the deck to service points, provided via large opening compartments. An optional central lubrication system simplifies maintenance still further. A folding canopy allows for easy transport.
For more information, call 717/532-9181 or visit www.volvo.com.
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