This latest model, weighing in at 57,931 kg, will enable Volvo to compete for projects requiring this size model, which accounts for over 50 per cent of projects globally.

Using the same 360 degree swing concept as the larger models, the PL3005D has been developed around the company’s latest Tier 4i/Stage lllB compliant EC300D crawler excavator, although an alternative Volvo engine solution will be available later for markets not yet at this level.

To enhance stability, the PL3005D uses the longer undercarriage from the larger EC340D, together with a standard heavy counterweight. With an overall width of just 3.15 m on 750 mm track shoes, transportation – an important consideration for contractors – is easy. Triple grouser shoes can also be ordered where underfoot conditions demand them.

Like the larger models, the PL3005D offers versatility. When the optional digging kit is ordered, it can be converted to an excavator in just one day, using two mechanics, so need never be idle when not required for pipelaying. Factory-installed hydraulic lines and connections, and the optimised hydraulic system, ensure there is no loss in performance when compared with a standard excavator model. With the pipelayer boom it can also handle other applications requiring heavy lift capability.

The 7.3 m long boom provides a higher hook height and longer reach, allowing the operator to sit back from the trench where ground conditions are poor. A 1.8 m boom extension is available as an option, which facilitates pipe unloading, stacking operations and tie-in operations. The 360 degree swing capability also provides a unique advantage. Fitting the boom extension is made easy due to pre-installed holes on the boom and it can also be folded back when not required.

A boom pad, to support pipe when moving, is also offered as an option.

Importance of safety

With safety a Volvo core value, the PL3005D incorporates many safety features, which in addition to protection for the operator and the machine also ensures safe operation and high productivity.

An improved load management system (LMS) using wireless sensors continuously monitors boom angle, machine orientation and inclination. The operator receives this information on a special in-cab display, so that the operator is constantly aware of what the pipelayer can safely pick up.

Unique to the industry, the LMS uses both graphic images and audible warning signals. The PL3005D also features a standard rear view camera, with an optional, side view camera also available. Both images can be viewed simultaneously on the in-cab monitor.

Externally, the LMS system employs boom tip-mounted light bars, on both sides of the boom, which signals the state of the load to other operators, but especially to the laying in foreman. Using a system of lights moving from green through amber to red, other operators can immediately see if they need to take up some of the load should any issue be encountered.

To provide excellent visibility into the trench, and also around the site, a new, unique, four bar hydraulic cab riser system can raise the cab by 496 mm, with the ability to stop the cab at any point during the rise. This new system effectively positions the cab behind the boom, improving visibility. In its lowered position, the overall height meets transportation requirements. To further improve forward and lateral visibility, the winch housing has been mounted on the adapter rather than at the base of the boom and the lift cylinder has been reversed, so that the cylinder road rather the thicker cylinder housing is visible to the right hand side. The operator friendly design even allows the operator to select which joystick controls the winch by using a pattern change control valve.

An optional falling object guard (FOG) can be ordered. Factory installed, the FOG is integrated into the cab, and provides roll over protective structure (ROPS) further enhancing operator safety.

Other safety features include a heavy duty, mechanical slew lock, which secures the superstructure to the undercarriage when holding a load on a slope or during heavy tie-in operations, preventing damage to the transmission.

A free swing function disengages the slew brake allowing the superstructure to self-centre. The flag block pivots right and left, enabling the load self-centre and prevent damage to the wire rope through chafing. The mechanical anti-two block system, with a wireless sensor, avoids damage by preventing the winch blocks from coming into contact during lifting.

To ensure better load controllability during simultaneous travel/lifting operations, a mode switch enables split pump flow. Selecting combined pump flow provides maximum performance when travelling or in stationary pipelaying operations. The ‘Fine’ mode gives high pressure and low flow for maximum lifting power, while also lowering fuel consumption.

With uptime a prerequisite on pipeline sites, servicing is also made easy. Grouped filter and service points are accessible via large, wide opening doors and, wherever possible, accessible from ground level. There is also 80 per cent commonality with standard excavators when it comes to maintenance and wear parts.