Two new heavy articulated tandem rollers from Ammann provide operators with fingertip steering and unparalleled visibility.
The Ammann ARX 140 and ARX 160 Articulated Tandem Rollers, with operating weights of 16 tons, provide 360º visibility from the operator station. This is made possible through a redesign that integrates four ROPS posts directly in the main structure and near the doors – not in the cab corners.
“This provides operators with an exceptional view of the entirety of the machine,” Vlastimil Medek, Head commercial manager – Heavy compaction said. “You can see this change by simply looking at the machines. There are no front and rear crossbeams. This redesign improves both safety and productivity.”
In addition to the ROPs post relocation, well-designed and positioned fuel and water tanks help improve sight lines to all drum edges and surfaces.
While the machines are compact, the cab is spacious and extremely quiet. It is suspended and isolated from external heat and vibration. “Those features keep operators comfortable, fresh and focused,” Vlastimil Medek, Head commercial manager – Heavy compaction said.
Varied applications
The rollers combine a wide range of benefits such as heavy operating weights, exceptional compaction width, a variable range of frequencies, powerful compaction punch and additional productive crab mode.
The machines fit well on a wide range of jobsites but are most productive if used in high volume asphalt applications such as highways, industrial areas or airfields. Their high static “dead” weights are a perfect fit as finishing/ironing static rollers or as a compaction tool for sensitive materials.
Varied vibratory settings increase or decrease compaction output for even more precise compaction control and higher quality.
New generation of Human Machine Interface
The advanced operator station has integrated, centralised controls that are located near the operator and easy to reach at all times, regardless of the seat position. This reduces reaction times and improves safety.
The operator’s seat is fully adjustable and rotates 270° to optimise visibility from the cab. The machine is equipped with fingertip steering (FTS), making it more operator-friendly, comfortable and easy to control. FTS replaces the traditional steering wheel and allows operators to keep both hands on the armrests for improved comfort. FTS also offers advanced palm support that prevents fatigue and injuries from repetitive motions.
A new 10-inch control display helps operators run all machine functions simply, safely and quickly. This includes vibratory parameters, lights, and ACEforce – Ammann’s advanced Continuous Compaction Control system.
In addition to displaying machine functions, the monitor provides an overview of fluid levels, indicators and machine status and warnings. The display is installed on an adjustable support, located in front of the operator, and moves with the seat for easy viewing. All these features – a symmetrical cab, unique operating station and rotating seat – are keys to using the machines in forward and reverse without limits.
Drum performance
The vibratory system development is driven by Ammann’s expertise and produced in-house, improving quality and durability. The operating width of the ARX 140 and ARX 160 is 2130 mm (83,9 inches).
Standard on both rollers is a two-stage vibratory system with a multiple range of frequencies that helps operators precisely adjust compaction output. The ARX 140/160 have adjustable frequencies ranging from 35-50 Hz and are able deliver compaction output in the range of 61-136 kN per drum.
ECOdrop philosophy
A new Ammann initiative, ECOdrop, makes all new products significantly more environmentally friendly – and profitable.
It includes fuel efficiency and reductions in the volume of fluids required. Accessible service points also save time and reduce spillage.
On the Ammann ARX 140 and ARX 160, ECOdrop:
- Utilises ECOmode, which improves fuel economy and lowers consumption.
- Improves drum drive systems and reduces gearbox oil usage 50% from the previous generation of mach
- Reduces drum bearing oil bath fluid by 6%.
- Uses a maintenance-free articulation joint.
Powerful engine
The rollers are available in two main emission stages.
The machine version for high emission restricted countries fulfills US EPA Tier 4f / EU Stage V norms. The machines are equipped with Perkins 904J diesel engines with power output of 100 kW (134 hp) and after-treatment technology EGR+DOC+DPF+SCR.
Machines for less-regulated countries (US EPA Tier 3 / EU Stage IIIA) are equipped with a Perkins 1104D with power output of 106 kW (142 hp) without after-treatment system.
The machines need only be fueled once every two shifts because of a large tank, with a capacity of 180 liters (47,5 gallons); a well-balanced hydraulic system; and ECOmode’s control of RPM and the reduced fuel consumption it provides.
Serviceability
Serviceability, reduced downtime and total cost of ownership are essential to profitability. Machine data is collected from all regions and is now reflected in innovative machine development as well as the ECOdrop philosophy.
Maintenance is faster and more convenient thanks to a highly accessible engine compartment with a robust design that protects all major components. All maintenance and service points are accessible from the ground. Machines are equipped with external draining points for all operational fluids such as engine oil, hydraulic oil and coolant.
The rollers are equipped with an auto-diagnostics system that communicates with service technicians. External testing ports on hydraulic components enable quick diagnosis and reduce machine downtime.
Customisation
A wide range of options can make the machines more productive, comfortable and serviceable.
Optional crab mode improves versatility. It increases working width and enables compaction close to curbs.
The ACEforce system makes it easier for operators to track compaction progress. This measuring system shows the actual kB value on the display and thus significantly lessens the time required to achieve the maximum compaction level.
Machines can be in open platform or cab version. Machines with cabs can utilise air conditioning. Additional lights are available for working at night or in low visibility.
Each machine is ready for installation of Ammann’s telematics system, ServiceLink, which monitors the roller’s position, helps with its control and communicates important jobsite data. All this information can be viewed via a web page.
